Valentine’s Day Roundup: Romantic Moments Across SA
Valentine’s Day is almost here, and if there was ever a time to lean into the atmosphere, it’s now. Across South Africa, restaurants and hotels are setting the stage for evenings that go well beyond dinner — adding cinema screens under the stars, live music, harbour views and spa rituals to the mix. Whether you’re planning a first date or celebrating a long-standing love, these experiences are designed for slowing down, dressing up and making a proper occasion of it.
Eating Out
Western Cape
In Sea Point, The President Hotel offers one of Cape Town’s most playful yet polished date-night concepts. Start with dinner from 18h00, then move outdoors for a silent open-air screening of About Time at 20h30. The experience includes headphones, a lounger, a welcome drink, a multi-course Valentine’s dinner and even a build-your-own dessert and movie snack box — equal parts nostalgic and romantic. For couples wanting something more traditional, a three-course dinner at Botany Café delivers an intimate table-for-two setting without sacrificing the mood.
In Stellenbosch, Postcard Café at Stark-Conde Wine Estate provides Winelands romance at its finest. A special two- or three-course lunch unfolds against vineyard and mountain views, with family-style starters and mains ranging from roast cauliflower to line fish or lamb. It’s relaxed, scenic and ideal for a daytime date that feels effortlessly special.
Gauteng
Johannesburg turns up the glamour at QLounge Wine Restaurant & QSushi Bar in Randburg. At QLounge, a five-course set menu is paired with the live sounds of Savina Popov on the saxophone, plus a complimentary glass of Quoin Rock MCC to set the tone. It’s atmospheric, refined and made for couples who enjoy a little theatre with their dinner. Next door, QSushi offers a more laid-back but equally romantic sharing-style sushi evening, where plates like tuna tataki are best enjoyed slowly, with a glass of MCC in hand.
For early risers or those who prefer romance by daylight, Kleinkaap Restaurant in Centurion hosts a Valentine’s breakfast buffet from 13–15 February. Expect a generous continental spread, Cape-inspired hot breakfasts and farm-style favourites — proof that love stories can start over coffee and croissants too.
Durban
In Umhlanga, The Sugar Club sets the mood with a classic three-course romantic dinner for two. Elegant surroundings and dishes such as Norwegian salmon and strawberries and cream make this one for couples who favour timeless fine dining.
Meanwhile in Umdloti, Tylers brings a celebratory edge with oysters, champagne and a multi-course menu of starters, mains and indulgent desserts. It’s bold, fun and perfect for lovers who like their Valentine’s with a touch of sparkle.
Flowers, But Make It Personal
Beyond the table, romance continues at home with uBlom’s flower subscriptions — a thoughtful alternative to the once-off bouquet. Their message this year feels refreshingly honest:
“Valentine’s Day has a reputation. Big gestures. Bigger expectations. Roses that scream I panicked.”
Instead, they offer “a gentler, better-dressed kind of romance” — the kind that says, “I saw this and thought of you,” or “I’m bad with words, but excellent with flowers.” Their sculptural, moodier arrangements are designed “For lovers. Friends. Situationships. Yourself. Especially yourself.” And perhaps most importantly, “Because love isn’t one-size-fits-all - and neither are our arrangements.” Subscriptions are delivered on Wednesdays, making them a gift that lasts well beyond 14 February.
Made With Love at Cape Grace
For an extra-special Valentine’s celebration, Cape Grace invites couples to craft a fully curated experience that goes far beyond a single dinner. Set on the V&A Waterfront with sweeping views of the harbour and Table Mountain, this Fairmont-managed hotel has pulled together carefully considered moments that celebrate connection, indulgence and intentional time together.
Heirloom Valentine’s Dinner
At the heart of Cape Grace’s offerings is the elevated Valentine’s dinner at Heirloom Restaurant — a refined multi-course experience priced at R1,650 per person designed to be shared. Guests enjoy a welcome drink to set the evening before a sequence of composed starters, assured mains and a dessert made for two. Every detail is crafted to feel indulgent without excess, making this intimate dinner a memorable centrepiece for the holiday.
Valentine’s-Inspired Afternoon Tea
For those who prefer daytime celebrations, Cape Grace’s Afternoon Tea gets a romantic twist from 12–15 February. Set against the elegant backdrop of the marina and Table Mountain, the experience includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with cream and jam, an array of pastries and, for added celebration, a glass of Méthode Cap Classique. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to share a moment together — perfect for conversations that linger.
Romantic Escapes and Stays
For couples looking to make Valentine’s an extended escape, the Romantic Escapes package at Cape Grace weaves together luxury with ease. A two-night minimum stay includes choices such as a romantic dinner at Heirloom or a couples’ spa experience, a luxury transfer from the airport, chilled sparkling wine and homemade treats on arrival, and a nightly gift to mark the occasion. With breakfast included and thoughtful touches throughout, this option turns fleeting romance into a proper getaway.
This year, romance in South Africa is less about cliché and more about intention — thoughtful food, beautiful settings, meaningful gestures and time well spent together.
Credits
Images: Supplied