Cover Try out these aphrodisiacs on your next date night (Photo: Auguste A / Unsplash)
Try out these aphrodisiacs on your next date night (Photo: Auguste A / Unsplash)
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Read up on these seven aphrodisiacs claimed to exude an air of romance
Some foods earn their status as aphrodisiacs through chemistry, others through symbolism, texture, or sheer sensuality. Whether it’s the way something melts on the tongue, releases its aroma, or invites a slower, more intimate way of eating, these ingredients have long been associated with romance and desire.
No matter the reason behind their allure, aphrodisiacs have a way of setting the mood. Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day dinner or simply want to surprise your partner with something indulgent, consider working these seven ingredients—often regarded as aphrodisiacs—into your next meal.
See also: 7 chocolate cultures across Asia and the Middle East worth knowing
1. Chocolate
Above Few things say Valentine’s Day like decadent chocolates (Photo: Nathana Reboucas / Unsplash)
Few things say Valentine’s Day like decadent chocolates (Photo: Nathana Reboucas / Unsplash)
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Chocolate has been linked to romance since the time of the Aztecs, who prized cacao for both its cultural and ceremonial significance. While it does contain compounds such as tryptophan and phenylethylamine—often associated with pleasure and mood—the quantities are relatively small, and its direct effects on sexual desire remain debated. That said, chocolate’s enduring appeal likely lies elsewhere: in its richness, aroma, and the way it melts slowly in the mouth, creating a sensuous, indulgent experience that feels inherently romantic.
2. Saffron
Above Symbolic of luxury and desire, saffron is one of the world’s most expensive spices and is considered a powerful aphrodisiac (Photo: Vera De / Unsplash)
Symbolic of luxury and desire, saffron is one of the world’s most expensive spices and is considered a powerful aphrodisiac (Photo: Vera De / Unsplash)
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One of the few spices backed by scientific studies suggesting aphrodisiac properties, saffron has long been valued for more than just its vibrant colour and distinctive fragrance. The compound crocin, responsible for its deep crimson hue, has been associated with mood-enhancing and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to its reputation as a natural aphrodisiac. Rare and precious, saffron’s appeal is as much symbolic as it is sensory—luxurious, aromatic, and unmistakably special.
See also: Liquid gold? Why New Zealand’s mānuka honey is so expensive
3. Pistachios
Above More than just a trendy ingredient, pistachios are known for their many health benefits, too (Photo: Karolina Kolodziejcza / Unsplash)
More than just a trendy ingredient, pistachios are known for their many health benefits, too (Photo: Karolina Kolodziejcza / Unsplash)
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Nuts have long been associated with vitality, and pistachios in particular have attracted attention for their role in supporting healthy circulation. Rich in nutrients that help regulate cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar, pistachios have even been studied for their potential benefits in addressing erectile dysfunction. Beyond their nutritional profile, they add a pleasing crunch and warm, toasty flavour to both sweet and savoury dishes.
4. Oysters
Above When thinking of aphrodisiacs, oysters naturally spring to mind (Photo: Edoardo Cuoghi / Unsplash)
When thinking of aphrodisiacs, oysters naturally spring to mind (Photo: Edoardo Cuoghi / Unsplash)
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Few foods are as closely tied to romance as oysters. While they are rich in zinc and other nutrients linked to sexual health, much of their aphrodisiac mystique lies in the experience of eating them. Slurped slowly from the shell, oysters demand a certain intimacy—one that has helped cement their reputation as a classic date-night indulgence.
5. Figs
Above Sweet, soft, and suggestive, figs are another ingredient commonly considered to be an aphrodisiac (Photo: Katja Vogt / Unsplash)
Sweet, soft, and suggestive, figs are another ingredient commonly considered to be an aphrodisiac (Photo: Katja Vogt / Unsplash)
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With their lush texture, fragrant sweetness, and suggestive appearance, figs have long been associated with desire. Beyond symbolism, figs are also rich in amino acids, which play a role in stamina and energy. Whether served fresh, roasted, or paired with cheese and honey, figs bring both sensuality and substance to the table.
6. Strawberries
Above What’s a more romantic pairing than chocolate and strawberries? (Photo: Yulia Khlebnikova / Unsplash)
What’s a more romantic pairing than chocolate and strawberries? (Photo: Yulia Khlebnikova / Unsplash)
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A Valentine’s Day staple, strawberries are synonymous with romance thanks to their vivid red hue, juicy sweetness, and long-standing cultural associations with love. Often linked to Venus, the goddess of love, the heart-shaped fruit has become a symbol of indulgence—especially when paired with cream, chocolate, or enjoyed straight from the stem.
See also: 7 Valentine's Day gifts to give your partner based on their love language
7. Uni (sea urchin)
Above Rich, creamy and undeniably delicious, this Japanese delicacy makes a great addition to your Valentine’s Day feast (Photo: Cody Chan / Unsplash)
Rich, creamy and undeniably delicious, this Japanese delicacy makes a great addition to your Valentine’s Day feast (Photo: Cody Chan / Unsplash)
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A prized Japanese delicacy, uni is not actually roe but the reproductive organ of the sea urchin. Scarce and highly sought-after, it’s celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and briny sweetness. While its aphrodisiac reputation is largely anecdotal, uni’s indulgent mouthfeel and luxurious status make it a natural choice for an intimate, special-occasion meal.
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About
Lauren’s love for food came much later in life than one would expect— an obsession awakened in the streets of Melbourne’s multicultural dining scene. Armed with this newfound passion, she returned to the Philippines determined to discover the best eats in her home country, with a personal advocacy to champion local cuisines and homegrown talent. Nothing is off-limits; if it’s delicious, it’s worth celebrating.
Work
As Tatler Dining associate editor, Lauren covers all things food and drink, from listing the latest openings in our monthly Dining Radar to interviewing chefs and bartenders about the biggest obstacles crippling the industry today. Beyond the digital space, she also organises Tatler Dining’s tentpole events, including Off Menu and Tatler Dining Kitchen, as well as the annual Tatler Best Philippines awards night and guide launch, detailing the best restaurants in the country.
For leads and event invites, contact her via lauren@tatlerphilippines.com or follow her on Instagram at @laurengolangco.
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