February is a month for love, romance and enjoying the little things in life, like chocolate and each other’s company. Since the weather is typically pleasant during this season, it is a wonderful time to get out of the house and enjoy everything our city has to offer. So, whether you are spending time with your significant other or family member, this curated list features 12 of our favorite places to visit for Valentine’s Day.
A BITE TO EAT
Stout Signature
227 4th St, Suites 101-103
Situated in the heart of San Antonio, Stout’s Signature features upscale cuisine and a full-bar of handcrafted cocktails in a contemporary venue near the Tobin Center. From filets to risottos, each plate is expertly crafted to be a work of art for your tastebuds.
“Stout’s is the perfect place to enjoy an exquisite meal,” Patti Nelson said. “I highly suggest the Charcuterie board and any of their pizzas.”
Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
219 E Houston St #275
Offering an old-world setting in a renovated downtown building, Bohanan’s is famed for its sublimely tender prime beef grilled over fragrant mesquite wood. Chef Mark’s disciplined and inventive kitchen is founded on culinary traditions, refined South Texas recipes and superb service. From Japanese Akaushi steaks, mesquite-grilled center cuts of prime aged beef and seafood flown in fresh, there is a dish to satisfy every craving.
“The staff always remembers your name,” Patti said. “The service is first-class, the food is exemplary and Mark truly cares about the entire experience for his patrons.”
SMELL THE ROSES
Tall Poppy Florals
Voted the Best Florist of San Antonio in 2020, Tall Poppy Florals is a small local business that draws design inspiration from the flowers themselves to create one-of-a-kind arrangements.
“A bouquet from Tall Poppy is one of the best ways to brighten my mood and day,” Patti said. “Rather than grabbing an ordinary set of roses from a grocery store, I suggest contacting Tall Poppy. Her design aesthetic features an array of color and texture that truly creates something unique.”
Alamo Plants & Petals
119 W Sunset Rd
A family-owned shop that has served the area since 1978, Alamo Plants and Petals offers a variety of custom arrangements and gift baskets. Their award-winning American Institute of Floral Designer (AIFD) professionals hand-arrange premium flowers to bring high-style to each and every bouquet.
“Whether it’s for a birthday, Mother’s Day, or another special occasion, my daughter, Katie, and I always think of Alamo Plants and Petals when it comes to ordering flowers,” Patti said. “When requesting a custom arrangement, regardless of how much direction you give them in reference to flowers, shape and color, it will turn out beautiful each and every time.”
THE SWEET LIFE
Chocollazo
4013 Broadway
A wonderland for chocolate-lovers, Chocollazo is known for stunning handmade and hand-painted Belgian chocolate truffles and other sweet treats. Visually stunning, each confection comes in a variety of shapes and colors ranging from angular geometric forms to smooth, golden teardrops and everything in between. The sophisticated flavors vary from caramel, Nutella to lemon rosemary and balsamic fig.
“These are some of the most elaborate desserts you’ll find in town,” Patti said. “From chocolate-covered apples and tiramisu to candy and ice cream, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth craving.”
Bakery Lorraine
At the Pearl - 306 Pearl Pkwy #110
At the Medical Center - 7338 Louis Pasteur Drive
At the Rim - 17503 La Cantera Pkwy
With multiple locations throughout San Antonio and the Austin area, Bakery Lorraine has been nationally recognized and is famous for their macarons and baked goods. Serving up sandwiches and array of tarts, muffins, cookies and more, they combine classic French pastry techniques with a playful inventiveness to create unique and delicious treats.
“You can see the care and attention to detail in each and every dessert,” Patti said. “My personal favorite is Lemon Blueberry Muffin. The Cinnamon streusel on top is to die for.”
CHEERS TO HAPPY HOUR
Stonewirth in Hotel Emma
136 E. Grayston Street
Nestled in San Antonio’s Historic Pearl District, Sternewirth in Hotel Emma features a dramatic 25-foot vaulted ceiling that soars over cozy groupings of sofas, easy chairs and banquettes. Enjoy hearty small plates and classic cocktails in an authentic and upscale bar and tavern.
“The atmosphere at Hotel Emma cannot be beat,” Patti said. “It’s warm and cozy while offering incredible cocktails, wine and craft beer.”
The Moon’s Daughters
602 Avenue A
An enchanting rooftop lounge and bar perched on the 20th story of the Thompson Hotel, The Moon’s Daughters floats above the River Walk and offers sweeping city vistas. Featuring Mediterranean bar bites and an outdoor patio, patrons will enjoy the indoor-outdoor seating with twinkling city lights below and the starry night sky above.
“I love the environment,” Patti said. “The views of our downtown are incredible!”
A MOMENT TO RELAX
Loma de Vida
At the La Cantera Resort - 16641 La Cantera Pkwy
A secluded hillside retreat on San Antonio’s highest point of elevation, Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness invokes the spirit of the Texas Hill Country while offering signature experiences. Guests can experience a myriad of massages, from deep tissue to stone mineral, facials, holistic intentional healing varieties, and a variety of hair and nail options.
“This is the perfect place to relax and really recharge,” Patti said. “That’s why my annual Crush Cancer Giveaway is always a $200 spa treatment at Loma de Vida. It’s one of the best.”
Hiatus Spa + Retreat
At the Pearl - 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 4, Suite 4112
Just across Brewer’s Alley from Hotel Emma and tucked under the Cellars Residences, Hiatus Spa + Retreat at The Pearl is an award-winning day spa. Rejuvenation awaits in the signature massages, body treatments, hydrotherapy room, and nail therapy rooms with zero gravity chairs.
“Tanner and his wife, Hillary, frequently visit Hiatus,” Patti said. “They enjoy the tranquil ambiance and array of personalized treatments offered.”
A LOCAL GETAWAY
Thompson San Antonio
Downtown - 115 Lexington Avenue
A modern oasis in the heart of San Antoni’s north River Walk, Thomson San Antonio boasts a trendy stay with stunning suites, a buzz-worthy restaurant, tasteful interior and rooftop bar. With its location being in the middle of all the excitement and entertainment that downtown offers, guests are surrounded by charming riverfront restaurants and cafes, bustling bars and boutiques, and iconic institutions like the Alamo and San Antonio Museum of Art.
“I love the hotel’s elevated decor and sleek design,” Patti said. “With the floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll constantly be greeted by gorgeous views of the San Antonio skyline.”
Hotel Emma
At the Pearl - 136 E. Grayson Street
Once a 19th century brewhouse, Hotel Emma is authentic and welcoming with its comfortable and unconventional atmosphere that is reminiscent of far-flung locales and hotels of eras past. Located in The Pearl Brewery, it offers a blend of historical elements with modern references and features a stylish bar, a distinguished restaurant and 146 rooms.
“This is one of my favorite hotels,” Patti said. “It gives off an Old World vibe but still has all the modern conveniences one would want nowadays.”