This Valentine's Night, It's Not Just About the Chocolate…

For centuries, food and wine has been considered a sensuous combination. Pliny the Elder and other ancient Greeks believed certain foods and beverages would increase sexual arousal, lower inhibitions and improve sexual performance.

While there is no empirical evidence to prove these claims, why can't we at least resort to the child inside us that once rejoiced in the anticipated arrival of the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy?

To start off your night of amour, a little liquid libation certainly couldn't hurt. Try making a French 79, a fruity cocktail served at Candle 79, with organic sake, organic pears and organic agave nectar. This drink is not only delicious, but it's entirely organic; it shows consideration for our beloved earth. Chef Angel Ramos and his staff exclaim, "Go vegan with your Valentine, because compassion is sexy!"

It isn't hard to deduce that textures and aromas can put one in a romantic mindset, too. According to Amanda Frietag, Chef at the Harrison in Tribeca "…spicy foods are an aphrodisiac! The heat opens your senses and warms the whole body, and sometimes can even make you a little lightheaded and euphoric (if you eat enough!)."

A favorite dish to awaken those dormant drives are her Parmesan Fritters, which she describes as not only spicy, but quite a sensual appetizer or, to quote Freitag, "…my parmesan fritter recipe is not only is spicy, but when you bite into it the cheese comes oozing out. Now that is food porn!"

Pair these passion pellets with a dry Riesling from Alsace or Austria. Then, for a midnight snack, sneak into the kitchen for Chef Petrous Moldovan's Caviar Parfait. Take it back to your lover wearing a big smile (and nothing else)!

— Written by C.J. Lester

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