Dating with celiac disease (for a lot of people) can be a nightmare. If you are new to the dating scene, there are many questions and possibilities running through your head. Do I tell them I must know the surprise restaurant they picked for our first date? Do I ask to pick the location of the dinner reservation? Do I tell them of my dietary needs or surprise them while ordering?
If you have been with a certain someone for so long you may have the same thoughts for every date wondering if your partner is tired of the same gluten-free restaurants. Often times I wonder if it would make a considerable difference to try a new restaurant every time, changing the scenery instead of the same handful of restaurants we stick to.
It is nerve-racking, to say the least, and for whatever reason leaves me feeling somewhat guilty. But, at the end of the day, celiac disease and following a gluten-free diet are factors a partner must understand and support. Try exploring new date night ideas — some that involve food, and others that don’t. Remember that date nights do not need to revolve around food.
There are plenty of date night ideas to choose from regardless of where you are in the relationship. Here are a few date night ideas for you and your partner, or date.
Sign up for a Salsa Class
If you and your partner love to dance, sign up for a romantic salsa class. It is fun, gets the body moving, and challenges the way you and your partner work together as a team to learn something that requires two to accomplish.
Bake
Bake your favorite gluten-free cookies or cupcakes and decorate them together. Enjoy them while watching your favorite show.
Have a Picnic
Throw together a yummy gluten-free cold lunch, gather your favorite beverage and meet at the local park. Get fresh air while eating a delicious lunch with your partner.
Go to a Coffee Shop
If you are new to the dating scene, coffee is a great way to meet someone new without worrying about gluten-free dining. Of course, be mindful of gluten-containing syrups and sauces. Order a delicious coffee or tea, and chat with your date. If the date isn’t going as you expected you finish the beverage and politely leave! Otherwise, chat with your date for as long as you’d like in a comfortable setting.
Drive-in Movie Theater
Switch things up a bit by going to a drive-in movie theater instead of a regular movie theater. Take your favorite gluten-free sweets and treats. My personal favorite is Angie’s Gluten-free Boom Chika Pop Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn. (Yum!)
Wine and Cheese Night at Home
Create your own gluten-free Charcuterie board, buy your favorite wine, and enjoy it under the stars at your own home.
Froyo Date
Go to a nearby froyo location and enjoy gluten-free frozen yogurt with your favorite person. Most frozen yogurt places offer gluten-free options. Be mindful of the toppings and cross-contact.
Go Hiking
There are many hikes to choose from throughout the entire world — both easy and hard. Do your research about hikes nearby, pack gluten-free sandwiches and snacks and go hiking together.
Race Go-Karts
The larger cities often have go-kart racing. A fun and exciting date!
Mini-Golf
Go to mini-golfing and see who wins. Then go to your favorite gluten-free restaurant.
Gluten-free Cooking Competition
See who makes the best gluten-free meal, and enjoy both selections. The winner chooses the gluten-free dessert.
These are just a few date night ideas for those who have celiac disease. There are plenty of date ideas that do not have to involve food. While food is a great idea for dates, you can still have fun without it. Eat before and after your date, or enjoy a fun activity together, and then go to a gluten-free restaurant. You can still have a great time and enjoy date night with celiac disease.
