Winter can be dark and rainy around these parts, and when planning date nights the temptation to stay home, order takeout and stream a movie can be strong. But, if you know where to look, winter date nights can be romantic and downright magical!

Surrey is filled with wonderful dining venues for a cosy evening for two, but if you’re looking for a more interactive evening, there are many things to do, places to see and brews to sip! No matter what angle you’re going for: romance, adventure or casual it’s time to bundle against the chill and head out for your perfect date night.

Classic Date Night Dinner

The romantic and charming Old Surrey Restaurant has always been a favourite date night destination, featuring classic French cuisine with expert tableside service not often found in restaurants today. We recommend starting with the classic Caesar salad (prepared while you watch), followed by the Chateaubriand Bouquetiere, filet mignon with a burgundy sauce, carved and flamed at your table! And finish up with flambeed Crepes Suzette or Cherries Jubilee.

Cozy eats and magical lights

For a casual yet romantic evening, that tips its hat to the upscale book dinner in the private bank vault at Cloverdale’s Vault Restaurant. Be sure to take a stroll around historic Cloverdale. With twinkle lights illuminating the main street, and an eclectic mix of boutique shops, shopping in Cloverdale is a delightful way to tick those names off that gift list. And if you can’t shake the feeling that you’re in a Christmas made-for-tv movie, it’s because you are! Cloverdale has been cast as the “charming village” in more than one production.

Action and Flights in Newton

For a more active date, try out something completely new: axe throwing! It’s exactly what it sounds like, throwing axes at targets, and Bad Axe Throwing has several helpful and patient instructors to guide you to becoming a total pro. Once you’ve hit the bullseye, reward your newfound skill with craft beer flights and tacos at nearby Russell Brewing Company.

Spice Trail Cocktail Culture

From classic margaritas and the tropical flavours of the islands to the exotic tastes of Southern Asia, Surrey’s bartenders are serving up some seriously impressive cocktails! A must-visit is Clove, the Art of Dining for uniquely flavoured cocktails where each drink comes with its own backstory and is served in exquisite glassware.

Foodie Tour

For the ultimate date night, book a tasting tour culinary experience from Chew on This Tasty Tours and enjoy a progressive dinner that takes you from Nepal’s intricate flavours to the vibrant tastes of India’s southern coast. Connect with skilled chefs, savour each bite, and expand your culinary horizons.

Art and Flavour

Escape the rain with a visit to the Surrey Art Gallery in Bear Creek Park. Specializing in digital art, the Surrey Art Gallery exhibits the contemporary works of local, national and international artists. Spend the afternoon taking in the current exhibit, and take some time to make art while experiencing it by requesting a drawing bench to use to sketch the art on display (be sure to bring your sketching materials). Discuss your favourite pieces over dinner at one of the nearby Spice Trail restaurants like Guacamole Mexican Grill, Dominion Bar & Kitchen or Union Latinos.

Mini Golf and Whisky in South Surrey

Did you know that you can golf in Surrey year-round? It’s true, and while you may not want to play a full 18 holes on a date (or maybe you do), there’s always time for a friendly game of mini-golf at Hi Knoll Driving Range & Mini Golf. Test your skills on this wibbly wobbly 18-hole course and then warm up at with a whisky cocktail and fried chicken at Mainland Whisky. Be sure to save room for the whisky doughnut flight!

Live Music Nights

Nothing brings people together like watching a favourite band perform. And if there’s great food to go along with the show, even better. Plan your next date night at one of Surrey’s live music venues – Donegal’s Irish House, Sawbucks Neighbourhood Pub, The Clayton Public House or Dublin Crossing Irish Pub.

Fun & Games

Treat your date to the ultimate night of fun and games at Central City Fun Park. Metro Vancouver’s largest (and soon-to-be expanded) indoor amusement park has mini-golf, roller skating (couples skate anyone?), bowling, VR and classic arcade games. Make it as competitive as you like, or let your date win, and then head out for a romantic dinner at Australian-inspired Ruex Cafe & Bar. We love ordering a selection of starters to share … and be sure to try the Paneer Fries.