Valentine's Day, the day for celebrating love, has long been associated with sweet things — chocolate, in particular. Heart-shaped bonbons and heart-shaped boxes full of sweet treats all bespeak the association of love with sweets. But how did we get from celebrating Valentine's Day to sweet treats?

Valentine's Day began when a Roman bishop by that name defied a ban and secretly granted marriages to soldiers and their sweethearts. Valentine was imprisoned and was said to have sent a letter to the daughter of his jailer, signing it "Your Valentine."

A few centuries later, the tradition of sending love letters called valentines emerged, followed a few hundred years later with the beginning of sending sweets to one's beloved. Chocolate, which was a gift from the Aztecs to the rest of the world, was originally consumed as a drink. Europeans turned it into candy, and then the English turned these into a Valentine's Day tradition.

History aside, there are lots of ways to celebrate the sweetest Valentine's Day ever here in Tuscaloosa, and most of these venues are close to Tuscaloosa homes for sale. Shop for the perfect Valentine's Day gift, or celebrate your love by trying out something new and offbeat in the world of sweets.

Sweet Treat Venues in Tuscaloosa

1. Peterbrooke Chocolates. 1530 Mcfarland Blvd N C, Tuscaloosa.
   Nothing says love like scrumptious, handmade chocolate. Besides individual chocolates (check out the heart-shaped red ones), Peterbrooke Chocolates also offers chocolate-covered popcorn, gift baskets (try the Lover's Gift Basket for Valentine's Day), and more.
   
   
2. Babe's Doughnuts. 500 Greensboro Ave., Tuscaloosa. 
   What could be less pretentious than the great American donut (or doughnut)? If your sweetheart is the down-to-earth type, who likes his/her sweets with a downhome flavor, then look no further than Babe's Doughnuts. Also known for their coffee drinks and breakfast sandwiches, Babe's shows it's not just about taste but also eye appeal with its versatile doughnut decorations.
   
   
3. Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe. 1800 McFarland Blvd E. Tuscaloosa.
   In the mood for something with an international flair? How about taking your loved one out for a fabulous Mediterranean dinner at Tazikis? Sample one of the delicious gyros or maybe one of the trademark entrees, such as kebabs, pork loin, grilled salmon or a vegetarian feast. Declare your love after they take away the dishes — just as they bring the toothsome baklava or chocolate chip cookies.
   
   
4. Edgar's Bakery. 1653 Mcfarland Blvd N, in the Tuscaloosa Galleria.
   It can be a challenge to find a place to dine out on Valentine's evening, but you can do a light lunch at Edgar's Bakery, then celebrate at home with a glass of wine and a slice of cake, some pretty petits fours, or other glorious pastries.
   
   
5. Nothing Bundt Cakes. 1393 McFarland Blvd E, Tuscaloosa.
   Nothing Bundt Cakes is a franchise, but this bakery has held onto the things that have made it a national success: fresh ingredients. So if you're looking for a great cake as the centerpiece of your intimate Valentine's Day celebration, just call up Nothing Bundt Cakes. Take your pick from Snickerdoodle, Confetti, White Chocolate Raspberry, Pecan Praline, Marble, and so much more.
   
   
6. The Wine Market.
   Love wine? We do, especially for Valentine's Day. Make your way to The Wine Market and try red or rose, or something with bubbles for extra sparkle — just right for Valentine's Day. Pair it with small plates, then follow up with a smooth and creamy French Silk Pie.

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