My wife Annie and I recently had the opportunity for a date night.
A full night out, in fact — an overnight stay in the newly minted Memphian Hotel in the heart of Overton Square. Almost 24 hours away from our very energetic and at times dramatic kiddos — sign me up!
But what to do? Where to go? Memphis has so many options these days. After we dropped the kids off at Grandma’s, we checked into our room at the Memphian and settled in. Our room was on the fourth floor and offered a nice view overlooking Cooper Street.
Isn’t it amazing how when you are freed up from parenting duties you kind of just don’t know what to do? So, after a few moments of deciding our game plan, we made it downstairs to the super-fun and artsy restaurant The Complicated Pilgrim. The restaurant also doubles as a delicious breakfast place after a long night out — more on that later.
After some beers, we ventured across the street to Panta. Formerly Restaurant Iris, Panta was just what the doctor ordered for a married couple looking to have some good eats, good drinks, and much-needed adult conversation. As we didn’t have reservations and the place was starting to fill up, we quickly cozied up at the bar and settled in for what was truly an enjoyable evening. We laughed and people-watched and were able to catch up in a relaxed and unhurried way. We were overdue.
Our bartender Aaron was incredibly knowledgeable and served as our guide for both what drinks to order as well as what dishes to try. I started out with what I’ve been calling the best drink I’ve ever had in my life: a mix of gin, cucumber, lime, and thyme. It was refreshing and distinctive. My wife had a whiskey that also didn’t disappoint. Next up, it was time to order some food. We tried and loved two dishes: the Gambas al Ajillo, gulf shrimp cooked in olive oil with shaved garlic, lemons, olives, and red pepper; and the Cimi i Tomba, a salted cod with Brussels sprouts and caramelized onions.
Speaking as a parent going on nearly 14 years of marriage, I encourage anyone to get out for a night out with their spouse. It’s a great way to reconnect without all of the disruptions and needs of small children. Not to mention it’s fun and exciting. The whole night we just kept laughing about being out so late and having the freedom we haven’t known for more than 10 years.
After a restful night’s sleep, we awoke rejuvenated and ready for breakfast. The Complicated Pilgrim boasts freshly squeezed orange juice, delicious coffee, and some of the best breakfast sandwiches we’ve ever had. The mix of eggs and bacon on a brioche bun with a delectable side salad was definitely the right way to start the day and finish up our staycation on a strong note.
With two young children at home, it can be challenging to carve out time for us. When we do get away, we tend to laugh a lot and remember just why we love each other so much. Make it a point in your relationship to get out, even if just for a few hours. Connection is so important, and when communication falls to the wayside that’s when marriages tend to crash and burn.
Clearly our marriage isn’t perfect. In fact, we are in the midst of completing a marriage course that focuses on the importance of connection, understanding, and communication. But what I do know is that when we are intentional about spending time together, our marriage benefits big time.
Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and dog Chalupa.