Supermarket Valentine's Meal Deals 2026: The Ultimate Taste Test
With Valentine's Day approaching in 2026, many couples are planning intimate dinners at home rather than expensive restaurant outings. UK supermarkets have unveiled their romantic meal deals for the occasion, offering everything from luxurious steaks to decadent desserts. Metro has conducted an extensive taste test across nine major retailers to determine which offers provide the best value and quality for your romantic evening.
Asda: Phenomenal Value at Just £12
Rating: 5/5
Cost: £12
What's included: One starter, one main, two sides, one dessert, and one drink for two people from the Asda Bistro range, available from February 5 to February 15.
The clear winner of this year's taste test, Asda's offering represents exceptional value. For just £12, couples receive a complete three-course meal with generous portions. The runny scotch eggs starter impressed with their crisp exterior and perfectly oozy yolk, while the 'marry me' chicken main featured tender breasts smothered in a creamy tomato sauce with a subtle pepper kick.
The triple-cooked chips were described as the best supermarket chips ever tasted, though they benefit from extra cooking time for optimal crispness. Morello cherry and Belgian chocolate tarts provided a decadent finish, with the cherry flavour balancing the rich chocolate perfectly. The inclusion of Kylie Minogue's non-alcoholic sparkling rosé completed the package, making this deal outstanding value.
Morrisons: Premium Quality at £15
Rating: 4.5/5
Cost: £15
What's included: Starter, main, side, dessert, and drink for two from Morrisons' premium The Best range, available February 5 to February 15.
Morrisons delivers impressive quality with their £15 offering. The red meat antipasti starter features classic staples including Spanish cheese and chorizo, while the rump steak main cooked rare surprised with its tenderness. The peppercorn butter adds a pleasant kick, and the chocolate orange cheesecake dessert provides a festive finish.
Reviewers noted that the four bottles of Peroni included would cost nearly half the meal deal price alone, making this exceptional value for premium products.
Waitrose: Indulgent Romance for £20
Rating: 4.5/5
Cost: £20
What's included: Starter, main, side dish, dessert, and either fine wine, cocktail, or chocolates for two, available February 10 to February 15.
Waitrose offers an indulgent selection that feels perfectly romantic. The prawn cocktail starter features large, juicy prawns in a well-seasoned sauce with a vinegar twang. The steak main comes with heart-shaped butter for aesthetic appeal, though reviewers suggested additional seasoning would enhance the experience.
The real standout is the melt-in-the-middle chocolate dessert, described as one of the best ever tasted. The entire meal requires minimal preparation, with most components ready in under 20 minutes.
Other Notable Offers
Sainsbury's (4/5, £18 with Nectar Prices): Features chorizo and burrata arancini starter, beef bourguignon pie main, and sticky toffee pudding dessert. The arancini impressed as the best supermarket version tasted, though the pudding needed additional sauce.
M&S (3/5, £25): Includes three courses, a side, and drink for two. The triple-cooked chips received particular praise, though the pork terrine starter divided opinion. The chocolate orange and nut brownie dessert provides a satisfying finish.
Co-op (3/5, £10): Offers main, two sides, and bottle of fizz for two. The rump steaks with truffle butter and creamy dauphinoise potatoes represent solid value, though the absence of starter or dessert is noted.
Tesco (3/5, £20 with Clubcard): Features Camembert starter, salmon en croute main, and white chocolate raspberry dessert. The cheesy chips side stood out, though the main lacked flavour intensity.
Aldi (2/5, £8.47-£13.22): The premium Specially Selected deal includes main, side, dessert, and optional wine. While budget-friendly, it lacked the romantic 'wow factor' expected for Valentine's Day.
Lidl (Price varies): New for 2026, Lidl's TOTAL Dine in for 2 deal starts at £8.26 without wine, offering starter, main, side, and dessert. Samples were unavailable at testing time.
Value Considerations in 2026
With ongoing cost-of-living pressures, these meal deals offer significant savings compared to restaurant dining. Asda's £12 deal provides particularly remarkable value, offering restaurant-quality food at supermarket prices. Morrisons' £15 deal also represents excellent value given the premium products included.
When choosing between options, consider portion sizes, cooking requirements, and personal preferences. Those seeking convenience might prefer Waitrose's easy preparation, while budget-conscious shoppers should consider Asda or Co-op's offerings.
All meal deals are available for limited periods around Valentine's Day 2026, with most running from early to mid-February. Availability may vary by location, so checking with local stores is recommended.
