With Valentine's Day fast approaching, supermarkets are rolling out their dine-in deals for couples seeking a romantic meal at home. We tested offerings from Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Marks & Spencer to help you choose.
Sainsbury's Taste the Difference deal impressed with a sirloin steak in peppercorn butter (£9.75), hasselback potatoes (£3.50), chorizo & burrata arancini (£5), and blonde chocolate profiteroles (£3.50), plus a bottle of Prosecco (£9). The total came to £12.50 less than buying separately. The steak was soft and juicy, the potatoes crisp, and the arancini had a pleasing cheesy centre, though the chorizo flavour was subtle. The profiteroles were light and creamy. We rated it 4/5 for value for money.
Tesco's Finest Dine In deal costs £20 and includes an extra side dish. We tried sun-dried tomato and burrata arancini (£5) with basil pesto, which were richer than Sainsbury's. The main was a 'Marry Me' chicken Kyiv (£7.60), a large, moist chicken breast in crispy crumb, though the sauce leaked during cooking. Sides of baby potatoes, Chantenay carrots, tenderstem broccoli, and green veg medley (£3.30 each) were fresh and well-seasoned. Taste scored 4/5, but value was slightly lower due to the higher price.
Asda's deal was the cheapest at £12, offering a three-course meal for two without wine. Details of the specific items were not provided in the source, but it was noted as a bargain for those not seeking a fancy touch. Marks & Spencer's deal was also tested, but no specific details were given in the source material.
Overall, Sainsbury's offered the best balance of quality and value, while Tesco provided more food for a higher price. Asda's deal is ideal for budget-conscious couples. Whichever you choose, cooking at home ensures a private, romantic evening without the crowds.
