It is always a treat when Brady and I are able to go to our favorite Italian restaurant here in Santa Barbara (The Chase) on a weekend date night. We always order the same meal and I ALWAYS look forward to it all week. It was also in a small Italian restaurant in San Diego that Brady proposed to me three and a half years ago. So romantic! I figured I’d try to come up with a party theme that would be similar to the fun of going to a small, authentic restaurant in Italy! This wonderful party theme will work for almost any crowd; with a delicious meal and wonderful décor, it is sure to please! Go on, escape to Rome, or Venice, or Tuscany! You’re friends and loved ones will be right there with you.
** This party would work quite well for a Valentine’s Day party with your closest friends or family.
That’s Amore!
The Food: For starters, serve fun Italian finger foods, such as Basil Marinated Mozzarella Balls or crackers with Layered Basil & Cream Cheese Dip. Then try serving a traditional Meat Lasagna or a large bowl of Sweet & Spicy Marinara with spaghetti noodles. You may also choose to serve a side Caesar salad (store-bought dressing is fine) for each guest. For a more casual party, have guests top their own pizzas (use store-bought crust and offer toppings such as: pepperoni, sausage, olives, bell pepper, mushrooms, pineapple, jalapeño, artichokes, etc.) then throw them all in the oven and bake until dough is cooked through and golden brown.
The Drinks: Red wine will pair extremely well with any of the dishes suggested for this party. You could also offer an Italian beer such as Peroni.
The Décor: Try using empty bottles of wine as candlestick holders! Place a decorative plate in the center of your table and top with fresh lemon leaves; accent with fresh fruits, such as: oranges, lemons, limes, apples, pears, grapes, etc. Hang a chalkboard that you have written the menu for the evening on.
The Fun: Try showing a movie set in Italy (such as “The Italian Job” or “Under the Tuscan Sun”). You could also play a murder mystery game (widely available at stores where you can purchase board or other games) with a theme of Italian mobs or gangsters and crime.









