Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean expensive restaurant set menus, long lines, or big gastos.
Some of the best Valentine dinners are actually the ones cooked at home — relaxed, intimate, and within budget. Whether you’re celebrating with your partner, kids, or the whole family, you can make Valentine’s Day feel special without spending more than ₱1,000.
This menu is:
- practical
- family-friendly
- easy to cook
- and budget-conscious
Perfect for busy households who want to celebrate without stress.
Budget Valentine’s Dinner Menu (Under ₱1,000)
❤️ MAIN DISHES
Creamy Garlic Chicken (₱280–₱320)
Boneless chicken cooked in a creamy garlic sauce.
This dish feels rich and indulgent but uses very basic ingredients. Serve with rice or mashed potatoes and it instantly feels Valentine-worthy.
Sweet-Style Spaghetti (₱200–₱250)
A Filipino Valentine classic—especially if kids are around.
You can make a big batch using ground meat, hotdogs, tomato sauce, and cheese. This alone already makes the meal feel festive.
🥗 SIDE DISHES
Buttered Mixed Vegetables (₱100–₱120)
Simple, colorful, and balanced.
Carrots, corn, and green beans sautéed in butter are familiar enough for kids and light enough to pair with heavier dishes.
Garlic Rice or Plain Rice (₱80–₱100)
Rice is still essential in most Filipino homes.
Garlic rice makes the meal feel more special, even with very simple ingredients.
🍰 DESSERT
🍓 Banana or Fruit Salad Cups (₱120–₱150)
A budget-friendly sweet ending.
Use bananas, apples, or canned fruit cocktail mixed with cream. Serve in small cups to make it feel intentional.
🥤 DRINKS
Iced Tea or Homemade Juice (₱80–₱100)
Skip soda and make a simple iced tea or juice at home.
It’s cheaper, lighter, and pairs better with dinner.
💰 Estimated Total Cost
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Creamy Garlic Chicken | ₱300 |
| Sweet-Style Spaghetti | ₱230 |
| Buttered Vegetables | ₱110 |
| Rice | ₱90 |
| Dessert | ₱140 |
| Drinks | ₱90 |
| TOTAL | ~₱960 |
✔ Under ₱1,000
✔ Complete meal
✔ Family-approved
How to Make It Feel Special (Without Spending More)
You don’t need extra food—just small touches:
- heart-shaped paper placemats
- candles or fairy lights
- letting kids help serve dessert
- writing simple Valentine notes
It’s the intention, not the price tag.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be grand to be meaningful.
Some years it’s a full spread.
Some years it’s simple food and quiet conversations.
What matters is sharing a meal made with care—even if it’s cooked on a tight budget.
