top ten destinations for lovers

SeductionMeals chatted with Angie Picardo, a writer for NerdWallet.com, and happily discovered that Angie is just as enthusiastic as we are about food, romance and travel. We knew we needed to pick her brain for some hot summer getaway ideas – after all, we’re always looking for great get-aways for couples. Here Angie shares her list of ten fabulous destinations that combine killer cuisine with an irresistibly romantic atmosphere.

The hills, the beach, the bridge, the park: everything about San Francisco is better done by two.  Even better, it’s home to some of the best chefs in the world. Although it might not have a specific style of food, head to any neighborhood (especially the Mission or SOMA) to find some high-quality food to suit both high-end and budget diners. And it’s a short drive to Napa and Sonoma Valley, wine country of California.

As the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Tuscany is full of rich architecture, paintings and sculptures. Museums, gardens and a rolling countryside make it a great spot to relax, preferably with a glass of one of its famous Chiantis. Tuscan food is simple and has roots in peasantry, but it’s rich and best enjoyed in its homeland. Florence, the capital of the region, is a safe bet for any type of Tuscan cooking. Its specialties include two Italian staples: bread and olive oil.

The City of Light is indisputably one of the most romantic cities in the world. With its picturesque parks, museums, chateaus, cafes and bridges, this city is a couple’s dream, especially if you’re a foodie. Paris is also home to some of the world’s best cuisine: boulangeries, patisseries, chocolatiers, fromageries, creperies and cafes line the streets, and over 9,000 restaurants (many Michelin Guide rated) dot the city. Some of the best traditional French food can be found in the nation’s capital.

Romanticized by Hollywood, it’s a great place to stroll the beach in the sunset. For a unique food adventure, head to Marrakech, a three-hour train ride from Casablanca. Djemaa el-Fna is home to a nighttime array of about 100 open-air food stalls that serve eggplant and couscous based dishes, olives, spices, or if you’re brave, you can sample traditional sheep’s head.

Take a gondola ride through Italy’s most romantic city and view the famous canals and architecture – all while being serenaded with classic Italian songs. Afterward, enjoy simple, yet flavorful Venetian food like risotto or polenta at any of Venice’s restaurants. Many of them have great food with a spectacular view and romantic atmosphere. Especially look for the San Polo Sestiere, one of the city’s oldest sections. It’s got a fish market early in the morning night and great restaurant offerings in the evening.

In Spain’s Basque country on what is often called the Spanish Riveria, you’ll find the seaside town of San Sebastian. Along with beautiful views of the mountains, ocean and Old City, the city is known for its gastronomical society. Try some of its pintxo bars; they’re like the Spanish tapas, but more artsy and satisfying. They have an interesting payment system, too: each morsel is stuck with a toothpick, and you’re charged based on the number of toothpicks on your plate at the end of the night.

Situated on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea, Nice is one of the largest cities in France. Its picturesque coastline and romantic spas make it a great place for couples–one spa even offers “choco-cooning,” where you get to roll in ganache and melted chocolate. Being in Southern France, Nice also offers plenty of typical Provençal food and flavors, including some traditional dishes native to the area.

Being the capital of Japan, Tokyo has no shortage of romantic places for couples to visit: the parks, gardens and towers throughout the city offer an array of date opportunities. For date night, Tokyo has many Michelin-rated restaurants, most of which serve traditional Japanese cuisine like Kaiseki, sushi and tempura. The Roppongi neighborhood is known for its wild nightlife, and if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated (and expensive), try Ayoma.

Farther south and on the opposite coastline from Venice, Naples has its own share of beautiful views and fantastic food. It’s the birthplace of pizza, so visiting a traditional pizzeria is a must. Once you’ve tasted an authentic Neapolitan pizza, none other will compare. Try the two most basic types: pizza marinara and pizza margherita. The sparse toppings typical of true Neapolitan pizzas let the famous dough, sauce and olive oil flavors reign supreme.

The capital city of this Caribbean island is an ideal choice for a vacation in paradise. The tropical weather, beaches and scenery offer a perfect backdrop for a honeymoon, anniversary or any other romantic getaway. Caribbean cuisine is unique, and it’s best enjoyed with a frozen drink in hand.  Make sure to try the traditional Bahamian conch, which is served raw, in soups or fried. Consider other specialties like needlefish and grouper, followed by a dessert of local tropical fruits.