Texas Restaurants for Valentine's Day
Flavorful Finds: Texas' Newest Restaurants for a Valentine's Day Feast
As the season of love approaches, we have scoured the Lone Star State to uncover its hidden gastronomic gems, perfect for an unforgettable Valentine's Day celebration with your special someone.
Prepare to ignite your taste buds and ignite the flames of romance as we present a carefully curated selection of the newest and most enticing restaurants that have recently graced the Texan culinary landscape. Each venue showcases the state's rich and diverse flavors, blending traditional Texas fare with innovative and imaginative twists that will leave you craving for more.
Whether you are a food enthusiast, an avid adventurer seeking novel dining experiences, or a couple in search of an intimate and memorable evening, this is your ultimate guide to creating an unforgettable Valentine's Day feast.
Bacari Tabu
Dallas
Bacari Tabu is a new Italian bar and restaurant in Texas, helmed by Julian Barsotti. It pays homage to the legendary jazz bar, Strictly Tabu, that once occupied the same space. The menu offers a delightful array of dishes, including lasagnette with layers of pasta (how long does pasta last?), sauces, and cheeses. Bacari Tabu invites Italian cuisine lovers, jazz enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an unforgettable Valentine's Day experience to enjoy its culinary artistry, mesmerizing ambiance, and create extraordinary memories with their loved ones.
Address: 4113 Lomo Alto Dr., Dallas
Website: http://www.bacaritabu.com
Birdie's Eastside
Dallas
Birdie's Eastside is a new restaurant in East Dallas, perfect for a Valentine's Day feast. With a spacious patio, it offers a delightful setting to enjoy delicious dishes and handcrafted cocktails. The menu features a fusion of classic bar food and inventive culinary creations, such as Ahi tuna (What wine goes well with tuna?) tacos. Whether you're looking for a casual outing with friends or an intimate celebration, Birdie's Eastside promises a memorable dining experience where great flavors and good times converge.
Address: 6221 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75214
Website: https://www.birdieseastside.com
Steakyard
Dallas
Steakyard is a new restaurant in Dallas specializing in steak frites, serving eclectic American cuisine with European influences. Located at 6726 Shady Brook Ln, it opened in late December for dinner service only. The former owner of DeLucca brings expertise to create a unique dining experience. The menu features succulent cuts of steak paired with golden and crispy French fries. In addition to steak frites, Steakyard offers a diverse selection of dishes that blend American and European flavors. With a warm and inviting ambiance, it promises to be a delightful choice for a memorable Valentine's Day feast.
Address: 6726 Shady Brook Ln, Dallas
Website: https://www.steakyard.com
Craft Omakase
Austin
Craft Omakase is a new and intimate Japanese restaurant in Austin's Rosedale neighborhood. Helmed by three Uchiko alums, it offers a 20-course omakase experience featuring simple yet exquisite nigiri, as well as composed cold and hot dishes like tuna tartare tart and shrimp bisque. The menu is complemented by sake- and wine-based cocktails, along with a selection of sakes, beers, and wines. Reservations can be made online for indoor dine-in services. Craft Omakase is the perfect destination for a memorable Valentine's Day celebration.
Address: 4400 North Lamar Boulevard, Suite 102, Austin
Website: https://craftomakase.com
Poeta
Austin
Poeta is a new Italian cafe located inside the Frances Modern Inn in Central East Austin. Opened in early December 2023 by the team behind Intero, it offers a daytime menu featuring egg dishes, sandwiches, and dinner-time pastas. Poeta provides both indoor and outdoor dine-in services, making it an ideal choice for a memorable Valentine's Day celebration.
Address: 1123 East 11th Street, Austin
Website: https://www.poetarestaurant.com
Gina's on Congress
Austin
Gina's on Congress is a French-Italian restaurant located in downtown Austin. Situated in a historic turn-of-the-century building on Congress Avenue, Gina's on Congress exudes an inviting and romantic atmosphere. It is an expansion of the popular Italian spot Gusto and opened in early December 2023. The menu features bistro classics like mussels (What wine goes well with mussels?) and fries, pastas, and tartare. The restaurant offers a special Negroni section and serves boutique estate wines, classic cocktails, and espresso drinks. With its emphasis on quality, simplicity, and an inviting atmosphere, Gina's on Congress is an ideal choice for a memorable Valentine's Day celebration in Austin.
Address: 314 Congress Ave, Austin
Website: https://www.ginasoncongress.com
Monarca
Woodlands
Monarca is a new restaurant in The Woodlands, offering a glimpse into Monterey's dining scene. With a focus on grilled proteins, the menu features beef cuts like filet mignon and boneless rib-eye, as well as branzino and unique dishes such as shrimp churros and chorizo mussels. Monarca also has a hidden speakeasy called Gus for pre- or post-dinner tequila drinks. It's an ideal choice for a memorable Valentine's Day celebration with its intriguing flavors and romantic ambiance.
Address: 26400 Kuykendahl Road, The Woodlands
Website: https://www.monarcarest.com
Comalito
Houston
Looking for a casual Valentine's Day date idea? Consider visiting Comalito, the newest restaurant and taqueria from Underbelly Hospitality, located in the Houston Farmers Market. From freshly made tortillas to a variety of proteins like pork ribs, (What wine goes well with pork ribs?) pastor, sirloin, skirt steak, and vegetarian options, the menu features tacos, quesadillas, and crispy costras. Guests can enjoy aguas frescas, mojitos, and cocktails on the outdoor patio area. Comalito provides a unique and flavorful option for a memorable Valentine's Day date.
Address: 2520 Airline Dr, Houston
Website: https://comalitohtx.com
Buena Vista
Houston
Buena Vista is a new Cuban restaurant located on Washington Avenue, offering a vibrant and romantic atmosphere. The menu features a mix of traditional Cuban dishes and innovative entrees, including ropa vieja, roasted octopus, and an appetizer board showcasing Cuban cuisine's greatest hits. Don't miss the creamy flan and refreshing mojitos. Buena Vista provides a memorable Valentine's Day date experience with its lively decor, flavorful food, and delicious cocktails.
Address: 4601 Washington Ave # 190, Houston
Website: https://buenavistacubancafe.godaddysites.com
Mamajuana Cafe
Houston
Mamajuana Cafe Houston is a new Latin restaurant located in Downtown. The menu features a variety of Latin dishes, including oxtail fettuccine, plantain chips, cassava fries, grilled proteins, and paella. Guests can enjoy the dessert fondue for a sweet treat or visit the speakeasy bar for drinks and live entertainment. Mamajuana Cafe Houston provides a fun and vibrant option for a Valentine's Day celebration, combining Latin flavors, lively ambiance, and entertainment.
Address: 909 Texas St, Houston
Website: https://mamajuanacafehouston.com
Cocody Restaurant and Bar
Houston
Cocody Restaurant and Bar, located in River Oaks, is an exquisite choice for a Valentine's Day celebration. The restaurant has made a dazzling debut with its glamorous and pretty-in-pink decor, creating a romantic ambiance. The menu at Cocody Restaurant and Bar showcases French techniques and promises both pristine presentation and robust flavors. Immerse yourself in a world of refined flavors and elegant surroundings. With its French-inspired menu, pristine presentations, and romantic ambiance, Cocody is a perfect setting to create cherished memories with your loved one.
Address: 1971 W Gray St, Houston
Website: https://cocodyrestaurant.com
Rumi's Kitchen
Houston
For a memorable Valentine's Day date, consider Rumi's Kitchen, an Atlanta-born restaurant known for its elegant atmosphere and Persian cuisine. Helmed by Iranian chef and co-owner Ali Mesghali, Rumi's Kitchen offers a culinary experience that embraces the rich flavors and traditions of Persian cuisine.
With its elegant atmosphere and a menu that highlights the best of Persian cuisine, Rumi's Kitchen provides an ideal setting for a special Valentine's Day date. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Iran, savor the exquisite dishes, and enjoy the carefully crafted cocktails that complement the meal. Rumi's Kitchen promises a romantic and memorable dining experience for you and your loved one.
Address: 1801 Post Oak Blvd Suite 120, Houston
Website: https://www.rumiskitchen.com
MaKiin
Houston
MaKiin is a lavish Thai restaurant created by Lukkaew Srasrisuwan, known for her successful establishment, Kin Dee. With a focus on fine dining and recipes inspired by Thai royal kitchens, MaKiin offers a luxurious Valentine's Day experience. Standout dishes include the Award-winning Chicken, featuring deboned chicken wings and stuffed chicken lollipops in Massaman curry, and the Flavors of Siam, a sugary seared wagyu steak with charred eggplant and Thai-style sauces. The Dessert Wonderland provides a stunning finale with its chocolate soil, lychee rosewater sorbet, and a chocolate tree adorned with cotton candy. Immerse yourself in the opulence of MaKiin and create lasting memories on Valentine's Day.
Address: 2651 Kipling St Ste 101, Houston
Website: https://www.makiinthai.com
Norigami
Houston
This new hot spot, born from a monthly pop-up at Hidden Omakase, offers a vibrant and electric atmosphere with neon lights and an origami theme perfect for planning your Valentine’s date. The menu features creative hand rolls and delicate crudo. Start with the hamachi crudo before exploring the standout hand rolls like the spicy scallop roll and the decadent Menage Fois Grois. The cocktails are also exceptional. Additionally, there is a speakeasy called Hidden next door for a stellar drinking experience. Overall, this hot spot provides a unique and memorable dining experience with its lively ambiance, innovative flavors, and creative offerings.
Address: 2715 Bissonnet St Ste 160, Houston
Website: https://norigamihtx.com
JOEY
Dallas
JOEY Dallas, the first location of JOEY in the city, is a perfect choice for a Valentine's Day celebration. With its globally inspired menu, expansive dining space, and exceptional dining experiences, JOEY Dallas offers a lively and romantic atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner for two or a celebration with a larger group, JOEY Dallas can accommodate your needs. As a Canadian company, JOEY brings its modern American restaurant concept to North Texas, ensuring a unique and memorable dining experience. Plan your Valentine's Day at JOEY Dallas and enjoy a special evening filled with delicious food, a vibrant ambiance, and a welcoming environment.
Address: 8687 N. Central Expressway, Suite 307, Dallas
Website: https://joeyrestaurants.com/location/joey-dallas
Yozora
San Antonio
Yozora is a trendy Japanese Izakaya and listening bar, perfect for a memorable Valentine's Day date. Meaning "Night Sky" in Japanese, Yozora offers premium Japanese Sake and Wine, along with a menu featuring transitional and contemporary sharing dishes like Crudo, Yakitori, and Wagyu. The establishment is dedicated to providing a top-notch listening experience with a custom-built sound system, ensuring every guest enjoys the music in a relaxed atmosphere. Choose Yozora for a romantic evening filled with exceptional cuisine, a curated drink selection, and a unique ambiance.
Address: 22211 W I-10 Access Rd #1111, San Antonio
Website: https://www.yozora.online
Diez Flores
San Antonio
Diez Flores is a new bar and restaurant concept located on S. Flores street that celebrates the culture and cuisine of 10 Latin countries. With a unique food and cocktail menu, Diez Flores aims to showcase the diverse range and different types of Latin cultures. Each country is represented by a specific drink on the menu, providing guests with a taste of the flavors and traditions from each region. The restaurant offers a unique and educational dining experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich culinary heritage of Latin America. Visit Diez Flores for a Valentine's Day date and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant Latin American cultures.
Address: 1010 S Flores St Ste 110, San Antonio,
Website: https://www.diezfloresbar.com
Summary
Texas offers a diverse array of new restaurants that are perfect for celebrating Valentine's Day. These establishments provide unique and memorable dining experiences, combining innovative menus, vibrant atmospheres, and exceptional hospitality. Whether you're looking for globally inspired cuisine, Japanese Izakaya with a listening bar, or a celebration of Latin American flavors, there is a restaurant to suit every taste and preference. These new dining destinations aim to create a special and romantic ambiance, ensuring that couples and friends alike can enjoy a memorable Valentine's Day date in Texas.
Valentine's Day is the month of love. So what better way to show affection than gifting chocolates crafted by passionate local Texas artisans?
