Table for Two - Brief History of Dining Out for Valentine's Day - by Jo-Ann Roberts

 

"Candlelight dances on the table, and love dances in our hearts." Unknown

Happy February, friends! I know there is only one day left before we turn the calendar to March. But it's still the month of love, hearts, and...dining out with that special someone. Of course, these days none of us need a special occasion to eat out with friends, co-workers, or family members. The number of restaurants in any given city, town, and interstates crisscrossing the country is staggering.

However, the most common way to celebrate is with a romantic dinner for two at a nice restaurant. But was it always that way? After tumbling down the rabbit hole, I discovered that the answer was...no! In fact, romancing one's spouse was unheard of in many societies. Marriages were often more about political connections, wealth, or convenience than about love and romance. It wasn't until the Victorian era that love became a primary consideration. But even then, it was about cards, poems, and small sentimental gifts. Not dinner at a restaurant.

In the 19th century, it was considered scandalous for 
a couple--married or not--to have dinner at a restaurant. Mostly because those restaurants advertising romantic dinners were synonymous with brothels at that time. In 1923, Emily Post suggested that "...it was not proper for an engaged couple to dine together in a restaurant, but it is all right for them to lunch or have afternoon tea...They should take a chaperone if they motor to road-houses for meals."

According to food historians, it wasn't until the 1930s that taking a lady out to dinner became an acceptable way to celebrate. Charles Perry, a food historian believes "The tradition probably came about during the Depression, when any meal out was a special occasion.  Popular restaurants like Delmonico's and Sardi's had some tables with curtains so the couples could choose to see and be seen or have an intimate meal while still enjoying the sounds of the orchestra."

At some unsavory establishments, the heavy curtains and low light in private dining areas accommodated questionable conduct, especially if the restaurant had a back entrance where people could come and go discreetly.

However, by the 1960s, it was a common practice for a husband to take his wife to dinner. And what could be more romantic than a night off from her homemaking duties?

Today, dining out still seems to be the most romantic gesture a husband can do for his wife. For many, the idea is less about the restaurant or the meal itself as it is a return to the place where they first met, kissed, or had a realization that they want to marry their date. It may not be the most fancy or expensive place. Or perhaps their friends or family may not understand why they chose a certain corner tavern or a simple neighborhood pizza palace. Maybe they choose to explain why or maybe they don't. After all, shared secrets are a thing of romance, too.

I hope you shared some lovely Valentine's Day moments with someone special!

******************************************

Coming May 30th!

An outlaw looking for a fresh start. A schoolteacher who might hold the key to the entire town’s salvation.

Ash “Shotgun” McCrae can never make up for all the wrong he’s done. After leaving a notorious outlaw gang, he thought he’d discovered the peaceful existence he’d been looking for when he found work laying tracks for the railroad in Rivers Bend. Yet, when trouble shows up in town, he fears he may never free himself from the burden of his past.

Schoolteacher Kate Cummings stands as the one bright light in contrast to the curious looks and behind-the-glove whispers blowing through the town. The arrival of Padraic “Patch” Rooney and his gang challenges the small-town serenity she holds dear. Still, her steadfast trust in Ash awakens the strength of courage within them all, giving rise to the collective defiance against the approaching danger.

In a deadly game of dangerous outlaws and secret schemes, Kate and Ash must decide whether they are willing to risk everything for their love, including their lives.

 Pre-Order Link

 Series Order Link