Our cover story is all about dates, with an emphasis on exploring the city. The editorial staff found a myriad of things to do with a partner: a picnic delivery service, late-night museums, hipster bowling alleys, themed galas, coffee classes, tasting menus, and even a private jet charter to Napa (price tag: $7,500).
Our feature has ideas for every couple, whether they’re on their first date or their thousandth. We focus on activities, admittedly going light on romance. And of course, we threw in a little bit of dating advice and etiquette. I spoke with local matchmaker Barbara Summers, who takes credit for 392 marriages since she began offering her services in 1986. (Which happens to be the same year we wrote “Dream Dates”—check out the suggestions we had for matching outfits, quiche, and poetry readings). “There are so many lonely people,” Summers told me, “and it frustrates me because they don’t have to be. They just have to execute a tiny bit of energy and be in the arenas of life they thoroughly enjoy.” I used to write for teen and women’s magazines, so I have a soft spot for all the single people who’d prefer not to be. To our uncoupled readers, take heart: Summers says holidays like Valentine’s Day should not be depressing. “You are surrounded with love all the time—your dogs, your parents, your children. Love exists in so many kinds of relationships. Being in a bad relationship is worse than being alone.”
And speaking of being surrounded with love, our food critic Troy Johnson dined at the home of the Busalacchis, the famed restaurateur dynasty who helped Little Italy become what it is today. He got to hear them tell their stories of the neighborhood’s early days and have a front-row seat to their Italian cooking, traditions, and family dynamics. They also believe in making friends before customers, so if you’re feeling lonely, seek out Joe Busalacchi at his family’s restaurants, Barbusa and Nonna.
Whether you’re looking for a date, or marking another milestone—my parents celebrated the 50th anniversary of their first date in October—find those arenas of life that you most enjoy. We can help: We’ve got Diana debuting at La Jolla Playhouse, a dog-friendly trail to hike, and San Diego’s first omakase-only joint.
Grab a loved one, set a date, and have a happy Valentine’s Day.
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Photographer Becca Batista with Art Director Sydnie Goodwin shooting our newsstand cover downtown
