A Heartfelt Guide to Valentine’s Day
By Ayesha M. Malik
San Antonio boasts endless unique experiences in every corner—if you know where to look. Scene In SA has the hook up.
Check out some great local spots for dinner, drinks, gifts, and more.
Dinner and Drinks
Restaurants and Bars
The Creamery District
What was once the Borden milk plant in Tobin Hill is now home to seven unique restaurants, cafes, lounges, and a sports bar, collectively known as the Creamery District. Owner Moris Saide affirmed to Scene in our Summer 2024 issue that he intends for his patrons to linger. With multiple concepts in one complex, just walk 20 feet to a different establishment if you forget to make reservations in time for February 14. (Psst, if you don't know, now you do: There's a speakeasy-style omakase spot at the Creamery District called Chika, headed by Chef Jonathan Reyes, that is an absolute must-try for any sushi lovers.)
Amor Eterno
Amor Eterno is truly Southtown's sexiest bar. With a vibe that only Gimme Gimme's Aaron Peña (Summer 2023, Fall 2024 issues) could dream up and seasonally themed drink menus curated by co-owner JC Salinas (and a killer espresso martini to boot), it is a place for all lovers at heart, regardless of relationship status.
Sorrento's Ristorante
This always-packed Broadway gem is no secret. Owned by the same family for decades, the quaint Alamo Heights scratch-based kitchen tucked into a corner is authentic Italy on a plate with signature recipes crafted by Gino and his wife Anna (and her eggplant parmigiana is exquisite). Sorrento's is one of those places where they take care of you like real family. I can't imagine you'll be able to snag a table on Valentine's Day, but for that della casa house pink sauce (which HEB named as a finalist in 2023's Quest for the Best), it's worth a shot.
Scuzzi's Italian Restaurant
Maybe I've just been watching too much Sopranos, but Valentine's Day is made for carby goodness like only Italian food can supply. Scuzzi's is an elegant and spacious restaurant with service so good, I could swear they wore white gloves. Definitely a place you take a romantic partner, but with private party rooms, Scuzzi's is also perfect for large groups. Have a Galentine's dinner!
Get some R&R
Spas and Hotels
Ranch Motel
With cozy rooms, a mezcal lounge, and a heated pool that would be oh-so gorgeous on a chilly February night, it's time to book a staycation with your boo. I'll leave that thought right there.
Mane and Company Salon and Spa
Colorist, extension expert, hairstylist extraordinaire, and NYC-jetsetting fashionista Alix Mane (Fall 2023) offers the full salon and spa treatment. Alix gave Scene In SA the full walkthrough of the zen spaces she created at her salon and spa located within Saks Fifth Avenue. The stunning new salon offers many services including stunning hair colors and cuts. The fully stocked spa has many treatments available including, mini or microdermabrasion, a vast array of facials, waxing and more.
Hiatus Spa+Retreat
This is elite-level relaxation. Whether you're looking to gift your partner (or yourself) a nice massage or treat yourself to some injectables at their med spa, Currently offering 25% off on med spa services, you might want to take a sabbatical and go to Hiatus.
Retail Therapy
Places to Buy Gifts
Déjà Vu Esoterica
Déjà Vu Esoterica is the place in Southtown to pick up some cute gifts for the types with witchy-crystal-horoscope vibes. This small shop in town is owned by local pair Gem and Glenn Hotvet. The staff are incredibly friendly and, boy, is the compulsion to buy incredibly strong. Do it. Spend the money at a local business and get some curated crystals, candles and anointing oils. I guarantee you'll find something you like.
Hogwild Records
Vinyls are back in fashion, but if you're real, they never really left. Hogwild is a San Antonio institution. Even if you're tapped out from the holidays and don't have any money to spend on Valentine's Day this year, browsing a record shop with your beloved is a timeless date activity. Love don't cost a thing.
...and in a pinch, everyone appreciates cool art. Seriously, there are prints for less than fifty bucks.
And it's such a thoughtful process to look at and pick out art that reminds you of someone special. Check out some local artists listed below or head to a First Friday and explore the galleries at the Blue Star Arts Complex. ■
