One of my very close (male) friends asked me out to dinner for Valentine’s Day. He’s hinted for ages that he’s liked me but I’ve never reciprocated, as I feel only platonic affection for him.

The two of us have gone out for lunch/dinner a couple of times in the past although we never did anything romantic on those dates.

I feel very comfortable around him however I just cannot see him as a romantic partner. Should I straight up tell him this before the date, or during?

I personally hate being alone for valentines so I wouldn’t mind spending it with him, but I don’t want to lead him on!

Edit:

I told him that I considered our relationship platonic only, but said if he wanted to have dinner just as friends I’ll be ok with it. He sounded sad about it but was still open to spending time together.

Thank you all for your advice. It sucks that I don’t feel anything for him as he’s really such a sweet guy, but I just cannot see him beyond a friend 😥