Patch Picks: The Food of Love

Candlelight, roses and soft music may bring the romance for some people. But for me there’s one surefire way to win my heart: Feed me.

There are certain foods said to have greater romantic powers than others. Darien Patch rounded up locations around town where you can sample dishes that feature foods thought to be aphrodisiacs—some of which are pretty surprising.

Even if they don’t work any magic, everyone wins: You get points for being a clever date and your beloved ends the night with a full belly.

1. Asparagus Rolls –

Raw fish may not scream lovefest, but there is one dish at Aodake that could get your motor going—especially if you’re a dude. Men’s Fitness magazine says that Asparagus is high in Vitamin E, which boosts testosterone levels. Try out the asparagus rolls at Aodake, which combine the crisp, green veggie with fried onions in a snug blanket of sushi rice.

2. Italian Garlic Shrimp –

Save the “but garlic makes your breath stink” argument. When have you let that stop you? Maybe that’s just me, but if you and your date BOTH eat garlic, you’re good to go. Plus, according to Planet Green, garlic is high in allicin, which increases blood flow. Get that heart pumping with the Italian Garlic Shrimp at La Notte Due. 

3. Guacamole –

There’s no delicate way to put this: Avocados supposedly get their aphrodisiac qualities because they resemble a certain part of the male anatomy, according to Saveur magazine. OK, now get that hideous image out of your head and chow down on some tasty guacamole at Mi-Hacienda.

4. Chicken Almond Ding –

So maybe the gift of love hasn’t come your way this year. In that case, get takeout Chicken Almond Ding from Uncle Mao’s and cuddle up to watch The Bachelor Monday night. According to this NPR story, almonds will help you get over heartbreak. Uncle Mao’s stir-fry dish comes in either small or large, depending on how much mending you have to do.

5. Death by Chocolate Cake –

Perhaps the food most associated with Valentine’s Day, chocolate actually is a purported aphrodisiac. Chef Charlie Trotter says on his website that’s because chocolate makes the brain release happy-chemical serotonin, which causes people to relax. So end your night of romance with a slice of Death by Chocolate flourless chocolate cake from the Sandtrap Grill. Let them eat cake? Sorry, Marie Antoinette. This one’s all mine.