AUSTIN, Texas — Sixty-four percent of respondents to a recent survey said that dining at home is more intimate or special than dining out. While 73% said that Valentine’s Day dinner at home, prepared by a significant other, is “more personal, thoughtful or caring.” Half of respondents also cited concerns about the current state of the economy and the increased cost of dining out as a reason to stay home during the Valentine’s Day holiday.

“Instead of making reservations, make a romantic dinner at home this year,” Theo Weening, Whole Foods Market’s “Meat Guy,” said in a release. “Whether you are cooking inside or outside, we have the perfect tips to help guarantee big flavor for less than going out. For example, two 12-ounce dry-aged steaks, with sides, can be served for much less than the cost of two meals at a steakhouse.”

The survey, conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Whole Foods Market, was conducted online among almost 2,100 adults aged 18 or older. About 1,200 of the respondents were married or living with their significant other.

Read More of Today's Headlines