School yard crush, blooming romance, married bliss or a lifetime of commitment, Valentine’s Day, like so many cultural touchstones, is largely celebrated with food. Chocolate, of course, is the leading flavor of the day. A special dinner, usually out, is a winning way to say “I Love You”. Yes, there are flowers and cards, but the food experience is shared by both sides of the couple, making it all the more romantic.

Valentine’s Day, as we know it, is a legacy of the Victorians. Great senders of cards and notes, and lovers of all things frilly and romantic, they popularized the fashion for printed greetings sent to loved ones. Richard Cadbury (founder of the eponymous candy company) began the Valentine’s chocolate tradition by putting his candy confections in heart shaped boxes elaborately decorated with cupids, hearts, kittens and other cuties. Early Cadbury candy boxes are coveted by collectors today. Despite rumors of chocolate as an aphrodisiac, it hardly seems likely that the straight-laced Victorians would give a gift with that subtext. It was more like “sweets for my sweetie” I think.

In 1866 The New England Candy Company began producing candy hearts with sayings printed on them. Made from the same candy as their popular NECCO wafers, these candies have become an all-American staple of Valentines’ celebrations from childhood on. The sayings have been updated over the years to incorporate new ways of communicating love from Be Mine to Call Me to E-Mail me and now Text Me.

The heart shape has been associated with love and romance since the late Middle Ages. Today, it is forever linked with Valentine’s Day by the card companies, candy marketers and all aspects of the Valentine’s industry. Heart shapes are all around us, usually red, and always (in winter) signifying Valentines Day. This year, I’ve noticed heart shaped donuts and biscuits in an attempt to broaden the range of Valentine’s foods. That seems a bit much.

Sentiments of love and affection can be expressed many ways: Flowers (always welcome), chocolate candy (very traditional), poetry (romantic but out of fashion) or a special meal (to be shared). Luxury is key to a memorable Valentine’s experience. Do it up right – beautiful roses, hand made chocolates, a personal poem, a lovely dinner or a combination of these.

Chocolate Rain and Chocopologie, both in Norwalk, are excellent sources for unique hand-made chocolates and other sweet gifts in the finest tradition of Mr. Cadbury. Carefully made from the top notch chocolate with unique flavorings and scrumptious fillings – these Valentine’s offerings will be most welcome.

Dinner at a nice restaurant is a popular way to celebrate Valentine’s with your loved one. A few hours together, just the two of you, candlelight, excellent food, polished service and a sophisticated atmosphere – what could be better? We like to get dressed up, setting the tone for the evening and making the dinner even more of an occasion. Dinner out is a particularly popular option when February 14 falls on the weekend, as it does this year. Some advance planning is important. Many restaurants will be offering special menus in addition to or instead of their regular menu and they will be busy. I like the idea of a main course for two – its more romantic to share.

No matter what your approach to Valentine’s Day, be sure to include something special to eat. Food–sweet or savory– it seems, is at the heart of our hearts.