The 12 Tasty Dates Challenge: A Year of Romantic Restaurant Discoveries & Unforgettable Memories

Every relationship thrives on shared experiences and intentional connection. For Hugo and me, this truth is celebrated monthly through a cherished tradition we’ve maintained since the very beginning of our journey together. Our special date is the 5th of each month, a day dedicated to pausing, connecting, and creating new memories. Whether it’s embarking on a fun activity, enjoying a special dinner at home, or exploring a new restaurant, we make sure to mark the occasion with thoughtful gestures and quality time. This consistent practice of nurturing our bond inspired us to share our approach, leading to the creation of what we affectionately call the 12 Tasty Dates Challenge.

This challenge is more than just going out for a meal; it’s a commitment to discovery, connection, and culinary adventure. The core idea is simple yet profound: dedicate one day a month to truly celebrate your relationship by trying a brand-new restaurant. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, exploring new flavors, and creating a unique memory with your loved one, or even with cherished friends or family. It’s an invitation to make every day, and especially one day each month, an opportunity for delightful exploration.

(Photo by David Bacher)

Why Embark on the 12 Tasty Dates Challenge?

Participating in this challenge offers a myriad of benefits, extending far beyond simply enjoying good food. It’s an investment in your well-being and your relationships:

Strengthen Your Connection: In our busy lives, quality time often takes a backseat. This challenge carves out dedicated moments for you and your partner to truly focus on each other, fostering deeper conversations and shared laughter.
Ignite Culinary Exploration: Tired of the same old spots? This is your chance to expand your palate, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourselves in diverse cuisines. From exotic street food to elegant fine dining, the world of flavors awaits.
Break Free from Routine: Monotony can slowly erode the excitement in any relationship. Injecting a monthly adventure ensures there’s always something new and exciting on the horizon, creating anticipation and fresh experiences.
Explore Your Surroundings: Whether you’re at home in Paris or traveling the world, this challenge encourages you to act like a local explorer. Uncover charming cafes, bustling bistros, or avant-garde eateries you might otherwise miss.
Create Lasting Memories: The best gifts are often experiences. Each “tasty date” becomes a story, a shared memory that enriches your personal narrative and strengthens your bond for years to come.
Mindfulness and Presence: During your date, commit to putting away distractions. Engage fully with your partner and the experience, savoring every moment and every bite. This intentional presence is a rare and precious commodity.

How to Join the 12 Tasty Dates Adventure

We believe this challenge is a fantastic way to celebrate love and life, and we would absolutely love for you to join us! Here’s how you can make the 12 Tasty Dates Challenge your own:

Choose Your Special Date: You can follow our lead and pick the 5th of each month, or you can choose any other date that holds significance for you – perhaps your anniversary, a specific day of the week, or simply a day that works best in your schedule. The key is consistency!
Discover a New Restaurant: The heart of the challenge is trying somewhere new each month. This could be a cuisine you’ve never experienced, a highly-rated spot you’ve been meaning to visit, or a recommendation from a friend. Don’t be afraid to step outside your culinary comfort zone!
Document Your Journey: Share your adventures with the world! We encourage you to snap a photo of your meal, the ambiance, or even a selfie with your date, and share it on Instagram. Make sure to use the official hashtag #12tastydates so we can all see and celebrate your discoveries. For our French-speaking friends, you can also use #lerestodu5! We’re building a community of food lovers and adventurers, and your posts inspire us all. Make sure you are following along on our travel Instagram account to share in the fun and see what we’re up to.

Our Latest Culinary Expedition: Bo Bun in Paris

Just recently, we joyfully celebrated our June 5th date, diving into the vibrant flavors of a new spot on the Rue Sainte Anne in Paris. We indulged in two absolutely delicious Bo Bun bowls – a Vietnamese noodle salad packed with fresh herbs, tender beef, crispy spring rolls, and a tantalizing dressing. The experience was truly delightful, a perfect example of how a simple meal can become an exciting adventure when approached with an open mind and a loving heart. The bustling atmosphere of the restaurant, the aroma of spices, and the sheer joy of trying something new together made it an unforgettable evening. These are the moments we cherish and eagerly look forward to each month.

Tips for a Successful 12 Tasty Dates Challenge

To make the most of your year of culinary exploration and connection, consider these practical tips:

Plan Ahead (but stay flexible): While spontaneity can be fun, a little planning ensures you don’t miss your monthly date. Research new restaurants, check menus, and make reservations if needed. However, be open to changing plans if a last-minute, exciting opportunity arises!
Set a Budget: “New restaurant” doesn’t always mean expensive. Explore a range of options from cozy cafes, lively bistros, food trucks, to upscale dining. Decide on a monthly budget that works for you.
Research is Your Friend: Utilize online reviews (Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor), food blogs, local guides, or ask friends for recommendations. Look for places known for specific cuisines or unique dining experiences.
Engage All Your Senses: Beyond the taste, pay attention to the ambiance, the music, the decor, and the service. These elements contribute to the overall dining experience.
Disconnect to Connect: Make a pact to put your phones away (after you’ve taken your Instagram photo, of course!). This is your time to engage fully with each other and the moment.
Reflect Together: After your date, take a few minutes to talk about what you enjoyed, what you discovered, and what you might want to try next. This reflection enhances the memory and helps you plan future adventures.
Don’t Be Afraid to Revisit: While the challenge is about new restaurants each month, if you stumble upon an absolute favorite, it’s perfectly fine to add it to your regular rotation for other occasions!
Make it Personal: Tailor the challenge to your tastes. If you prefer specific types of cuisine, focus on exploring different restaurants within that category. If you love a surprise, let your partner pick the restaurant for certain months.

The 12 Tasty Dates Challenge is an invitation to embrace adventure, celebrate your connection, and savor the rich tapestry of global cuisine right in your own backyard, or wherever your travels take you. It’s about consciously nurturing your relationship and creating a treasure trove of shared experiences throughout the year. We are genuinely excited to share in your fun and see all the incredible places you decide to explore for your dates!

So, what are you waiting for? Pick your first new restaurant, mark your calendar, and get ready for a year of delicious discoveries. Don’t forget to snap a picture and use the hashtag #12tastydates so we can follow along on your incredible journey. Happy dating, happy eating, and happy connecting!