SWEET NOTHINGS
7 affordable San Antonio spots for a last-minute Valentine's Day
Wake up with a Valentine's pop heart.
It’s the little things we’re told that make life worth living. But don’t tell that to the industrial complex behind Valentine’s Day. What started as a celebration of a decapitated martyr has now become an orgy of maxed credit cards, Affirm purchases, and back-alley dealings, all imposed by a capitalistic chug.
Still, love is worth celebrating whenever there’s an opportunity. The trick is to make it memorable — a difficult task when the date is less than a week away. Luckily, several spots around San Antonio serve budget-minded feasts that don’t require a reservation.
Bakery Lorraine
Valentine’s Day lasts 24 hours, so why not make the morning special? Head to any location for a decadent breakfast and an adorable specialty pastry. The selections include strawberry pop hearts, berry tarts, and heart moon pies — all guaranteed to make Cupid’s arrow strike.
Copa Wine Bar
Sorry, but that 16-ounce ribeye eaten in the name of romance won’t give anyone pep for the afterparty. Instead, nibble on charcuterie for two at this Stone Oak hangout, followed by a shared rich chocolate mousse cake. Even after adding a pair of $30 wine flights, the base total will still ring under $100. The only thing that will be heavy is your wallet.
Gimme Gimme
Sid and Nancy, Kurt and Courtney, John and Yoko. Rock and relationships don’t always mesh, but they didn’t have the benefit of Gimme’s steak night. The $25 plates are huge and come with duck-fat fries. Pair it with a bottle from A Perfect Day next door.
Little Red Barn Steakhouse
Sure, the picnic tables and Western decor don’t scream romance, but there’s something fun about leaning into the kitsch. Cosplay as Dolly and Kenny and order the $65 dinner for two. It comes with a salad, side, fountain drink, dessert, and a choice of steak or shrimp. Use the funds you saved for a heart-shaped bolo.
Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar
This Southtown staple will host Love on the Rock for folks who prefer their V-Day a little more raucous. Sip on love potions and enjoy love jams from DJ Quick from 7:30-10:30 pm. Chocolate-covered strawberries get the festivities started while supplies last.
Tony’s Siesta
Not quite serious enough with your inamorata to make Valentine’s Day a full production? Head to this downtown bar for a night of lighthearted Mean Girls trivia. Plenty of themed drinks, half-off bottles of wine, and a vinyl deejay will set the mood after the show. The food trucks outside are far more fetch than a Kälteen bar.
Toro Kitchen & Bar
Though the phrase “prix fixe” strikes fear in the hearts of anyone trying to stay frugal, it’s not a dirty word. Toro’s $84 dinner for two includes a chef’s selection of tapas, paella, a dessert, and a glass of wine. Best of all, it’s available from February 12-18, so there’s no need to brave the Valentine’s crowds.
