The History of Valentine’s Day and Where to Find Heart-Shaped Food in New York City
The History of Valentine’s Day
Today, Valentine’s Day is known as a day of love and appreciation, filled with heart-shaped balloons, rose petals, gifts, teddy bears, and chocolates. However, not many know the origin of Valentine’s Day beyond its commercialization. The holiday is celebrated in the name of a man named St. Valentine, with both Roman and Christian roots. According to History.com, the full background of the holiday is murky, but in almost all versions, Sir Valentine is known as a heroic, stoic, and poetic figure.
One story says that while imprisoned, Sir Valentine actually sent the first "valentine" greeting himself after he fell in love with a girl who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed "From your Valentine," an expression that is still in use today.
Where to Find Heart-Shaped Food in New York City
Williamsburg Pizza
Nothing says "I love you" like savory tomato sauce, sprinkled cheese, and warm crust. Williamsburg Pizza is known for their heart-shaped crusted pizzas, and get extra creative with a variety of toppings including apples, artichokes, basil, Cremini mushrooms, anchovies, bacon, and gorgonzola.
Ladurée
These macarons are the heart (no pun intended) of a sweet treat for your valentine. Originally a French delicacy, these light and airy cookies are filled with various fillings. Gift your sweetheart with a luxurious 15-count assortment from Ladurée, featuring tart raspberry or sweet vanilla flavors.
Knead Love Bakery
Choose from an array of goods baked with love. Give your sweetheart the gift of gooey, melted chocolate with the sweetly shaped brownie or chocolate chip cookie, or if they’re a true New Yorker, they will love the heart-shaped bagel.
Baskin-Robbins
Known for their unique and delicious variety of ice cream, it only makes sense that the franchise goes beyond for Valentine’s Day. Grab a scoop of their iconic holiday flavor, Love Potion #31, a luxurious combination of white chocolate and raspberry flavors, accompanied by chocolate chips. The real kicker is their holiday-shaped cake, "Crazy for You Cake," featuring fudge accents and chocolate drips, Oreo cookie and buttercream rosettes, and can be personalized with your choice of favorite cake and ice cream flavors.
Chick-Fil-A
With Super Bowl 2025 quickly approaching, this heart-shaped tray is ideal for any football or chicken lover in your life. Filled with 30-count nuggets, 10-count Chick-n-Minis (during breakfast hours), 12 Chocolate Fudge Brownie halves, or 6 Chocolate Chunk Cookies, there are a variety of yummy options and ways to say "I love you" through the stomach.
Martha’s Country Bakery
Piped with beautiful ombre rosettes and topped with a refreshing chocolate-dipped strawberry, these heart-shaped cakes from NYC staple bakery Martha’s are the perfect way to ask someone to be your valentine.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and appreciation, and what better way to show your love than with delicious, heart-shaped food? Whether you’re a romantic or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in New York City.
FAQs
Q: What is the origin of Valentine’s Day?
A: Valentine’s Day has both Roman and Christian roots, and is celebrated in the name of a man named St. Valentine.
Q: What are some heart-shaped food options in New York City?
A: There are many options, including heart-shaped pizzas, macarons, brownies, and bagels, as well as unique ice cream flavors and cakes.
Q: How can I show my love and appreciation on Valentine’s Day?
A: You can show your love and appreciation with a variety of methods, including gifts, cards, and, of course, delicious food.
