Need a hot date idea in these cold Texas times? Downtown Austin is full of ways to impress your Valentine!
Cover Photo by XOXO Photography Fellow Ismael Quintanilla III
Brunch: Start the Day Off Right
La Condesa
Taking them to a Michelin-recommended and James Beard-nominated eatery is a perfect way to show your love. Bring your date to La Condesa for delicious food and Mexico City vibes while you support local farmers (try the seasonal produce). See the menu here.
Fat Rabbit Social House
Wake your Valentine up with bacon and brunch cocktails at Fat Rabbit Social House! This charming, eclectic spot is the perfect place to start the day. You can wine and dine on rare, tucked-away patio downtown or enjoy the cozy, rabbit-centric interior. Plus, you can wow your date by knowing one of the hottest new spots downtown.
Gina’s on Congress
Transport your love without traveling too far by taking them to Gina’s on Congress. This French & Italian-inspired bistro & bar is nestled in a historic building that will make you truly feel like you left the country for a little while.
Movies: We Laughed, We Cried
Coming to America
Everyone loves a classic RomCom! Watch a short film and Coming to America in partnership with Black Auteur Film Festival and Where Y’all At Though?! for an early celebration of love on February 12. Prior to the feature, Austin-based filmmaker Prince Adablah will present his short film MAMAYA. Costumes encouraged, pre-show photo ops and more fun is coming. Get your tickets now!
Wuthering Heights
On a more dramatic side of things, Wuthering Heights is ONLY showing in theaters on Valentine’s Day. Watch tensions heat up in a foribben love between Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi at the Violet Crown Cinema. There are multiple showings throughout the day so it should be easy to fit in your booked and busy schedule. See showtimes here!
Dinner: Wined, Dined and Dazzled
Swifts Attic
Love sharing (or stealing) bites from your partner’s plate? Swift’s Attic is an incredible date night! With inventive cocktails and flavored ice to delightful tapas and appetizers perfect for sharing, you and your Valentine can try a little bit of everything. Check out the menu here!
Francois
Another one of the hottest new spots downtown combines classical French technique with modern culinary sensibility. You and your date are in for a treat when you try Restaurant Francois. Plus, their Bar Rouge is described as “sultry”, which sounds like perfect vibes on a love that celebrates love.
Devil May Care
Dress your ten up to the nines and create a night to remember at Devil May Care. Enjoy Mediterranean-style plates, oysters, unique cocktails, live music and maybe even bottle service if you want to make the night extra special. Discover what you could be in for here.
Jazz Lounge to Slow Down
End the perfect date by heading to one of the three sister jazz clubs in Downtown Austin. Nica on 4th is the latest addition if you want to try something new. For something a little more upscale and dazzling, make a reservation at Parker Jazz Club. If you want to end the night with a classic, enjoy some time at the Elephant Room!
Special Events: For a Special Someone
February 12
Where’s The Love? Valentine’s Day Variety Show at Fallout Theater
Love in Bloom – Mixology Experience at Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta
Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special at St. David’s Episcopal Church
Galentine’s Spa Lounge Takeover at Fairmont Austin
Valentine’s at Foxy’s Proper Pub starts
February 13
Love Bites: Burlesque Showcase at The Belmont
Briar Blush of S18 RuPaul’s Drag Race at Cheer Up Charlies
PUNK GOES POLE: Anti-Valentine’s Day Burlesque & Pole Show at The Belmont
Trevor Wallace: Alpha Beta Male Comedy Tour at The Paramount
In Motion: 3 Celebrated Dances with Ballet Austin at the Long Center
Valentine’s Day Tasting Menu at Fairmount Austin
Anti-Valentines at The Cedar Door starts
Valentine’s Day Omakase at Uchiba
February 14
Valentine’s Day Cookie Decorating Class at Fareground
Romantic Brunch for Couples at Plaemakr
Love. It’s Blind! Improvised Reality TV Show at Fallout Theater
Boogie Down Picnic at Republic Square
Drag Bingo Austin at 222 E 6th Street
Love is in the Bar with the Spazmatics at Speakeasy
In Motion: 3 Celebrated Dances with Ballet Austin at the Long Center
Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two at Cannon + Belle
Valentine’s Day Speed Dating (25-39) at The Belmont
Bollywood Love Affair – Valentine’s Day Party at TOATS
Stoplight Silent Disco at The Belmont
Valentine’s Day Melodies by Mélat at Fairmont Austin
Cafe Con Ron at Dead Rabbit