Forgot Valentine’s? 4 Fixes for the Romantic Panic!
If you’re reading this on February 13, that means one thing. You’ve officially entered the last-minute Valentine’s danger zone. Maybe you didn’t snag that fancy dinner reservation, but that doesn’t mean your only option is takeout on the couch (unless that’s your love language—no judgment). Florida has plenty of budget-friendly, iconic date options that prove Valentine’s isn’t about the price tag. It’s about the memories you make—preferably over heart-shaped food.
Big Romance, Small Price Tag
- White Castle in Orlando (11595 Daryl Carter Pkwy) – Maybe 10 years from now, you’ll be telling your kids how you fell in love over candlelit sliders at White Castle. The Love Castle dinner only happens once a year, and if romance with a side of crinkle fries sounds like your vibe, this is your kingdom. With tableside service, fancy decor, and a crowd that takes their sliders seriously, this fast-food fave goes full Valentine’s mode. You may have dropped the ball on that steakhouse reservation, so don’t blow it twice—there’s only one White Castle in Florida, and tables go fast!
- Waffle House – This classic retro diner is serving up romance—smothered, covered, and candlelit. For one night only, select Florida locations are ditching the to-go cups for white tablecloths, dim lighting, and just enough candlelight to make your hashbrowns feel fancy. The waffles stay the same—no, they’re not heart-shaped— but they’re filled with extra love. And while Waffle House is always open, these Valentine’s tables won’t be, so call ahead before someone takes your spot!
- Papa John’s & Papa Murphy’s – Love is cheesy, and so is your dinner. Both pizza joints are rolling out heart-shaped pizzas for Valentine’s, because nothing says romance like a pizza “Hot to Go” —just ask Chappel Roan. Papa John’s delivers the love straight to your door, while Papa Murphy’s lets you be the chef—just take it, bake it, and enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven magic. But don’t forget to pop a breath mint before you go for that garlic-y kiss.
- Chick-fil-A – And for the couples who believe that love should be dipped in sauce, Heart-Shaped Trays are back at participating locations through February 22! Filled with nuggets, Chick-n-Minis, brownies, or cookies, they’re perfect for sharing with your Valentine—or conveniently “forgetting” to share at all.
Some love stories start with a bouquet of roses—yours might start with a heart-shaped pizza and a side of waffle fries. Whether you’re keeping it casual or making candlelit sliders your new tradition, Valentine’s is what you make it. So, grab your date (or your bestie) and enjoy a night that’s more about fun than fuss. And if you’re still hungry, check out www.guidetoflorida.com/food-drink for more loved local spots.
