It’s the month of love, and here at Independent Leicester, we don’t think V-Day fun should rely on your relationship status.
Valentine’s is the perfect time of year to show your local independents some love and share the joy of shopping local whilst showing that you care. Whether its family, friends or your fancy, it’s about celebrating with the people who mean most to you.
Here’s our top ten Independent Leicester Valentine’s Day tips for every type of Valentine…
Housed in the ancient and beautiful All Saints Church on Highcross Street, Van Gogh: The Immersive experience is an exhibition like no other. Through 360 degree projections of the paintings of one of the world’s most famous artists, you can literally step inside the artworks and experience them on a whole new level. Don’t miss the VR experience that brings the places that inspired Gogh’s work to life! Buy your tickets online now.
You’ve no doubt already read our Comedy Festival guide giving you a run down of the best gigs in Independent businesses in the city. We think Leicester Comedy Festival is the perfect night out – whether you’re showing your new date you have a great sense of humour or having a laugh with your besties, Leicester’s home-grown Comedy Festival is the hottest ticket in town in Feb.
Tandem serves up Indian food as you’ve never experienced before. Promising to take diners on a journey of culinary discovery, Tandem embraces the culinary diversity of India, using traditional cooking techniques paired with contemporary plating to deliver a multi-sensory feast. Head down to surprise a special someone with an unexpected and delightful dining experience.
Candles, flowers, perfume… it can be hard to shop for gifts and not be cliché at this time of year. We recommend heading to The Very Bazaar in The Lanes. In this Aladdin’s cave of exotic items you’ll be sure to find the perfect gift that’s unlike anything they’ve seen before. From crystals to jewellery, slat lamps and beautifully embroidered cushions and throws, find something unique to show them you care.
We get it – first dates are nerve-wracking. What to wear? What to say? Where to go? Well, we’ve got that last one covered. For cute and cosy vibes, head for a relaxed coffee and linger for lunch at Bryter Moon Deli in Silver Arcade. Twinkling fairy lights set the mood as you get to know each other, and there’s even Trivial Pursuits cards to help break the ice – just don’t get too competitive!
Rediscover your inner science geek! We love The Legendary Lab for bringing a grown-up twist to sciences lessons – we never had so much fun in a lab! The bar makes your cocktail an experience, as you make the decisions that make up your final drink – will you have a smoking masterpiece or add a syringe for extra effect? With showstopping drinks that are bound to be a talking point, there’s no need to worry about awkward silences on your date here!
Manhattan 34 is well-known for providing perfectly mixed drinks in the heart of Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. Inspired by the end of Prohibition in 1934 when experimental bar tenders developed exciting new drinks flavours, their artistic menu is sure to satisfy the most discerning tastebuds. Their new menu launched this month, so it’s the perfect time to re-visit if you’ve been before. We like the look of the Espresso and Almond Old Fashioned – a boozy, rich, dark flavour, perfect for those who enjoy a flavourful slow sipper.
The White Peacock is Leicester’s home of affordable luxury of modern European and International cuisine. This year they are offering special 6 course tasting menus for Valentine’s Day, with optional wine pairings for each course – perfect if you’re looking to push the boat out and lavish your loved-one in luxurious food.
The meat menu includes mouth-watering courses such as Thai breaded chicken and duck terrine, and there is also a completely vegetarian menu option – the tortellini with herb pesto has got our stomachs growling in approval!
Find the menus and book a table on their website.
If you are trying to woo a special someone, don’t forget to check out our Date Night article for some fool-proof ideas that’ll be sure impress.
Main image: Van Gough: The Immersive Experience © Chadi Abou Sariya
