editor@waylandpost.org
Valentine’s Day is in the air — or as we like to call it in our community, Waylantine. This year, the Wayland Post is celebrating with a warm and community-centered guide to local Valentine’s fun. Whether you’re planning a romantic date for two or looking for solo and “Galentine’s” outings with friends, Wayland and its surroundings offer plenty of cozy, charming options. From beloved eateries to scenic trails and hometown events, here are some ideas to make your Waylantine special.
Romantic date ideas for couples
An elegant dinner at Coach Grill — Treat your Valentine to a classic steakhouse experience at Wayland’s Coach Grill, known as the town’s crown jewel for dining. During Valentine’s weekend, Coach Grill features special à la carte menu additions alongside their regular offerings — think lobster bisque, red beet salad, petit filet mignon, and other indulgences. Top it off with a decadent dessert (their shortcake with macerated berries is on the menu) and perhaps the festive chocolate-covered strawberry cocktail, a romantic concoction of vodka and white chocolate liqueur in a chocolate-rimmed glass. The upscale yet inviting atmosphere (dim lighting, white tablecloths, and attentive service) makes it perfect for a candlelit Valentine’s dinner to remember.
Cozy Italian at Giacomo’s — If Italian food speaks to your heart, Giacomo’s Ristorante in Wayland Town Center offers an intimate yet friendly setting. This new local outpost of a Boston favorite serves authentic pasta, pizza, and seafood, drawing on over 30 years of original Italian recipes and seasonal favorites. The vibe is family-friendly yet elegant – ideal for a cozy date night. Share a classic pasta dish (the portions are generous ), split a wood-fired pizza, and toast with a glass of wine from their curated list. The warm decor and welcoming staff will make you and your partner feel right at home.
Sushi night at Takara — For couples who love sushi or want something a little different, Takara Japanese Restaurant & Bar in Wayland offers a fun, modern date spot. The menu is extensive —there’s something for everyone, from artfully prepared sushi and sashimi to crispy tempura, savory teriyaki, and even Korean bibimbap. You can sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs work their magic or grab a cozy booth for more privacy. Takara’s casual yet stylish atmosphere (and perhaps a warm sake or creative cocktail) creates a delightful setting for a Valentine’s dinner that’s a break from the ordinary. They’re open for lunch and dinner daily, so you could even make it a daytime date.
Sweet treats from Chocolate Therapy — Nothing says Valentine’s Day like chocolate! After dinner (or anytime, really), swing by Chocolate Therapy in Wayland Town Center to pick up some artisanal treats. This local shop specializes in handmade, locally produced chocolates with memorable flavors — confections designed to “make you feel good with every decadent bite.” You’ll find beautiful truffles, rich fudge, and creative chocolate bark combinations. It’s a great place to grab a gift for your sweetheart or to share a box of truffles together for a sweet nightcap. Supporting a hometown chocolatier makes the indulgence even sweeter.
Solo, friends, and self-care
Not every Valentine’s celebration has to be a romantic couple’s affair. Wayland has plenty of opportunities to enjoy the day solo or with friends, focusing on self-care, friendship, and community spirit.
Wayland Winter Farmers’ Market at Russell’s — Start your Valentine’s weekend with a trip to the Wayland Winter Farmers’ Market at Russell’s Garden Center. Held indoors and under cover at our beloved family-owned garden center, this Saturday market is “the place to be” in winter. You can browse and sample from about 60 local vendors offering everything from New England produce and farm eggs to fresh baked breads, cheeses, pasta, meats, and sweet treats.
As their website points out, “the market features New England–grown vegetables, fruit, eggs, locally made bread, baked goods, pasta, cheese, meat, fish, lobster, fresh and frozen prepared foods, and more.”
You’re sure to find something you love. Grab a friend and hunt for ingredients for a homemade dinner, pick up locally crafted gifts (artisan jams or soaps make great Valentine tokens), or just enjoy the “local, fresh, delicious and fun” atmosphere on a winter morning.
The community vibe is strong, with neighbors chatting over hot cider, kids nibbling on cookies making it a heartwarming outing for all ages.
Spa day at Moodz — Valentine’s is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. Moodz Salon & Spa (with a location right here in Wayland) invites you to “indulge in something better than chocolate” — a day of relaxation.They offer everything from stress-melting massages to luxurious facials and nail treatments. You can even buy yourself (or a friend) a gift card; during the Valentine season, Moodz has noted specials like “get $10 for every $100 spent” on gift cards — because, as they say, “the best love stories start with self-care.” Whether you book a calming aromatherapy massage or a mani-pedi with a pal, a spa outing is a fabulous way to show yourself some love. After all, love and friendship should be celebrated by feeling your best, too!
“Galentine’s” craft night — Gather your best friends and head to a creative Valentine event just next door in Natick. The Natick Historical Society is hosting a “Posies & Prosecco” craft night at Morse Tavern (Feb 12), dedicated to friendship and fun. It’s the ultimate Galentine’s outing: “Gather your ‘Galentines’ — friends, neighbors, and family — for an evening of crafting, nibbling, and celebrating friendship.” Your ticket includes a glass of prosecco (or wine/beer) and all the supplies to make a beautiful teacup floral arrangement. A local crafter provides guidance, and you’ll even hear some historic love letters (“words of love” from the museum’s collection) during the event. It’s a chance to get creative, enjoy appetizers and drinks, and make a toast to friendship. Don’t miss this unique night out that supports a local museum and leaves you with both memories and a handmade keepsake.
Brunch at Mel’s Cafe —Valentine’s weekend is a great time to enjoy a comforting brunch with friends or family. Mel’s Commonwealth Cafe is a popular diner and meeting place for many Wayland residents, making it an ideal spot to kick off your day with warmth and good food. Mel’s has been a community staple since 1958, famous for its hearty breakfasts (try their legendary eggs benedict or fluffy pancakes) and friendly atmosphere. The staff greets locals by name, and the walls echo decades of hometown chatter and laughter. Grab a table with your “Galentines” or treat yourself to a solo brunch with a good book — either way, you’ll feel the community love. The prices are reasonable and the portions generous, so you’ll leave both your heart and stomach satisfied.
Casual bites at The Local — If you prefer a laid-back evening out with friends, The Local Kitchen & Drinks in Wayland Town Center is perfect for a low-key Valentine’s gathering. The menu offers something for everyone, all with a creative twist on comfort food. The ambience strikes a balance between upbeat and cozy, with a lively bar and plenty of booth seating. You might catch a game on their TVs or just enjoy good conversation over craft cocktails in a welcoming local spot.
Enjoying the winter scenery — For a peaceful solo adventure or a daytime date with your Valentine, take advantage of Wayland’s natural beauty. Bundle up and explore one of the town’s many nature trails or conservation areas — the experience can be incredibly romantic and rejuvenating. The Hamlen Woods/Mainstone Farm area, for example, offers extensive looping trails through woodlands and fields. You’ll pass quiet ponds and historic stone walls, and you might spot wildlife like ducks, herons, or even woodpeckers in the trees.
If you’re looking to truly unplug, visit the nearby Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge (Sudbury unit). The trails wind around serene wetlands along the Sudbury River, providing tranquil views and excellent bird-watching opportunities. A brisk walk in the fresh February air, perhaps with a thermos of hot cocoa in hand, can be a wonderful act of self-care. And if you bring a loved one along, it’s a chance for quality time in a quiet, beautiful setting. Embracing the outdoors reminds us of the natural beauty and small-town charm that make Wayland special.
Local history and hearts — Lastly, immerse yourself in Wayland’s heritage with a dose of culture. On the morning of Feb. 14, the Wayland Museum and Historical Society is hosting “Valentine’s Day Fun.” It’s an open house with an educational twist: you can “explore the exhibition, go on a scavenger hunt, and find your love for history!” — all free, family-friendly fun. It’s a lovely option for parents with kids or anyone interested in local history (and maybe a great way to introduce young ones to the idea that learning can be fun). Searching for hearts in museum displays or discovering historic love letters from Wayland’s past can add meaning to the day. After all, Wayland’s community spirit is built on its history and the people who have loved this town over the years.
Celebrating community
What makes “Waylantine” truly special is the community we share.
Wayland may be a small town, but it offers a big heart — from family-run businesses to scenic landscapes preserved for all to enjoy.
This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re clinking glasses over a romantic dinner, chatting with neighbors at the farmers’ market, crafting with friends, or taking a reflective stroll by the river, you’re part of what makes our town warm and unique. So celebrate love in all its forms — romance, friendship, family, and yourself — right here at home. Here’s to a Wayland Valentine’s Day filled with cozy moments, local delights, and the simple joys that make our community shine. Happy Waylantine’s Day!
