You all know by now that I’m a sucker for going out to eat. But really though, do you blame me? If I could, I would go out every night, but hello exhausted body and bank account. There is one good thing about this situation thought, and that’s getting away with restaurant food at the grocery. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, let me fill you in.
I recently discovered a gem of a cheat meal in my grocery’s frozen section thanks to the bold and tasty Chili’s at Home meals. Now you can have their food from the convenience of your microwave or oven. I don’t know about y’all but I’m thinking some more at home date nights are in the books.
I’ve been trying to be bold and brave by stepping my game up in the kitchen, but you either have it or you don’t. As much as I’d like to think I’m the next Paula Deen when I find a recipe on Pinterest, I’m not. Instead, here’s how I create a restaurant dinner date night at home and you can too!
Pick up a frozen at home meal from your local grocery
If you’re a master chef with a bunch of time, then you’ve got the skills to mix up something different for a change. Or be like me and take the easy way out with Chili’s bold frozen food meals. You get the restaurant taste in a matter of minutes. I call that a win.
Set the table like a civilized being
Perhaps you’re civilized and do this on the regular, or perhaps you’re like me and just grab a plate, fork, and sit to eat. Well not this time. Take the extra minute to set the table to have it looking nice and inviting.
Wear real people clothes for dinner
We all love wearing our yoga pants and tees when at home, I’m totally guilty too, but try changing it up a bit and put on something nice. Bras and shoes included, no cutting corners here!
Enjoy a glass of wine with your meal
Just like you would go straight for the drink menu in a restaurant and order your favorite, bring your favorite to your home. Enjoy your favorite wine, beer, or cocktail with your meal.
Eat dinner by candlelight
Date nights at restaurants usually involve dim or candlelit lighting, so try recreating the romantic atmosphere at home by lighting a candle on the table.
Add music
I can’t think of many restaurants that don’t play some type of music during your dining experience. Music is an instant mood booster, and hello, who doesn’t love music!? This will make your date night that much more enjoyable. Especially if you have an awkward silence moment with a new guest.
For my at home restaurant style date night, I decided to go with the Chili’s at home cajun chicken pasta. I was surprised by all of the different options and even large family share sized portions too. This new line of meals is inspired by some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes so I guess I pretty much nailed the whole restaurant dinner at home thing. You can go here to see if they have your favorite dish and even get instant savings.
For my at home restaurant style date night, I decided to go with the Chili’s at home cajun chicken pasta. I was surprised by all of the different options and even large family share sized portions too. This new line of meals is inspired by some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes so I guess I pretty much nailed the whole restaurant dinner at home thing. You can go here to see if they have your favorite dish and even get instant savings.Do you ever have restaurant style date nights at home? What do you like to do to bolden up your home meals?
Thank you to Bellisio Foods for sponsoring this post.
J @ Bless Her Heart Y'all says
Such a cute post! I'll have to try the Chicken Alfredo. I tried the Chicken Bacon Ranch a few days ago and loved it!
I love when you mentioned the awkward silence with new guests! That cracked me up! Hope you have a great weekend!
Optimistic Existentialist says
Cajun-style chicken Alfredo sounds AMAZING
Montgomery Fest says
this is adorable. i cracked up at the 'like a civilized being' because, really.
Kelsea says
Ah, wine! I miss it (30 weeks prego here!)! We usually have sit down formal dinners, but when you have a toddler it's not too romantic. I need to plan a late dinner after our little guy has gone to bed and incorporate some of these- especially the music, something other than maternity yoga pants, and some mood setting decor!
The Girl who Loved to Write says
Such a cute date idea!
craftyspices says
Real dinner, restaurant like are always so much fun.