National Drink Wine Day & Margarita Day Specials You Don’t Want to Miss

Corinne at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is a local spot offering drink specials this week. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

With National Drink Wine Day (Wednesday, February 18) and National Margarita Day (Sunday, February 22) just around the corner, San Antonio’s top restaurants and hotels are rolling out festive, limited-time offerings. From iconic margaritas to curated wine specials and tequila tastings, these spots are serving up plenty of reasons to raise a glass.

Here’s where to celebrate in San Antonio and surrounding cities:

🍹 The Gunter Margarita at The Gunter Hotel

Available Sunday, February 22
Locations: Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Jots
📍 205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205

The historic The Gunter Hotel is debuting a limited-time cocktail for National Margarita Day: The Gunter Margarita. Crafted with Combier liqueur, Altos tequila, agave, and fresh lime juice, this $13 cocktail is available throughout the hotel, including the lobby bar, Keystone Club, speakeasy Bar 414, and restaurant Jots.

🍷Uncork at Dean’s – Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk

National Drink Wine Day
Wednesday, February 18 | 11 AM – 11 PM
📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

At Dean’s Steak & Seafood, guests can enjoy ½ off select wine bottles all day long. Available in both the bar and dining room, it’s the perfect excuse to uncork a favorite midweek, whether paired with a classic steak or enjoyed in the restaurant’s cozy Riverwalk atmosphere.

🌆 Mile High Margarita Flights at Tenfold Rooftop

National Margarita Day
Sunday, February 22 | All Day
📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Celebrate above the skyline at Tenfold Rooftop with their Mile High Margarita Flights.

Offerings include:

$16 Frozen Margaritas
$16 Rocks Margaritas
$22 Mile High Flight (four 4 oz. signature margaritas)

It’s a one-day-only tasting experience designed for sharing or sipping solo while taking in sweeping city views.

🍷Uncork at Corinne – Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

National Drink Wine Day
Wednesday, February 18 | All Day
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

At Corinne San Antonio, wine lovers can enjoy ½ off select bottles all day.

Featured wines include:

Martin Codax Albariño ($25)
Robert Sinskey’s “POV” Pinot Noir ($55)
Piedrassi Syrah ($52.50)
Whispering Angel ($35)

It’s an ideal opportunity to savor a thoughtfully selected bottle with friends or family.

🍹 Raise a Glass at Corinne

National Margarita Day
Sunday, February 22 | All Day

Corinne is also serving up the $5 La Villita Margarita, a bright and refreshing cocktail finished with a subtle mezcal mist, a perfect way to toast the occasion.

🌿$5 Margarita Moment at Anaqua Garden Bar

National Margarita Day
Sunday, February 22 | All Day
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

At Anaqua Garden Bar, guests can enjoy the $5 Margarita in Mexico special, a chilled, vacation-inspired cocktail that feels like a getaway in a glass.

🎉 Tequila Tastings at Rosarios ComidaMex & Bar

The Southtown favorite Rosarios ComidaMex & Bar is kicking off celebrations early with two tequila-forward tasting events:

February 21 | 4–6 PM: Guided tasting with Patrón representatives
February 22 | 8:30–10:30 PM: Spotlight tasting featuring Caraburna tequila

Guests are encouraged to stay for dinner or head upstairs to the rooftop bar to continue the festivities.

🦀 2-for-1 Margaritas at Smashin Crab

The Creole seafood favorite Smashin Crab is offering 2-for-1 margaritas all day on February 22 at all three San Antonio locations.

The celebration continues beyond the holiday with the launch of a new daily “After Party” happy hour during the final hour of service.

🔥 $5 Margaritas at Embers Wood Fired Restaurants

At Embers Wood Fired Restaurants, guests can sip:

$5 Signature Margaritas
$8 Frozen Margaritas

Known for its wood-fired menu and lively atmosphere, it’s a relaxed yet festive stop for lunch, happy hour, or dinner.

🌮 Weekend Specials at Los Barrios Family Restaurants

February 21–22

Los Barrios Family Restaurants — including Los Barrios, La Hacienda, and Viola’s Ventanas — is pouring $7 margaritas all weekend long.

With scenic patio views and beloved casero-style Mexican cuisine, it’s an ideal setting to sip and savor early spring in Texas.

🍹 Muck & Fuss – New Braunfels

National Margarita Day Specials
📍 New Braunfels, TX

At Muck & Fuss, guests can enjoy:

House Muck-a-Rita – $4.95
Made with Cazadores Reposado and served on the rocks with a choice of salt, sugar, or tajín
House Frozen Muck-a-Rita – $6.95
The same classic flavor in a blended, ice-cold format

It’s a refreshing way to celebrate just outside San Antonio.

Whether you’re toasting with a bold red, savoring a classic margarita on the rocks, or sampling a flight with skyline views, San Antonio is ready to celebrate in style. Cheers to a week filled with good pours and even better company. 🍷🍹

Stethoscopes to Suspense: A Spotlight on Shantanu Rai’s Debut Novel

‘A Dangerous Diagnosis’ is the new thriller novel by Shantanu Rai. Photo: Barnes & Noble

New Book Spotlight: A Dangerous Diagnosis

Get ready for a gripping addition to your thriller shelf! This Tuesday, February 24, marks the release of A Dangerous Diagnosis, the timely debut medical thriller by practicing physician Shantanu Rai. (Sharkpoint Studio, 2026)

Whether you’re a fan of high-stakes medical dramas or legal thrillers with a heart, this is one release you won’t want to miss. It is currently available for pre-order.

The Story: Luxury Medicine Meets a Deadly Conspiracy

Brilliant diagnostician Dr. Sanjay Patel has come a long way from his dreams of serving the needy. These days, he treats the global elite, traveling by private jet and receiving payments in cash-stuffed designer totes.

But his high-flying life is grounded when his estranged mentor, Dr. Tom Carpenter, collapses from a fatal stroke. His final act? A cryptic message scribbled on a prescription pad: “Page Dr. Sanjay.”

The mystery pulls Sanjay back to Boston’s Mount Beacon Hospital, the very place that nearly destroyed his career. There, he must face his past in more ways than one, reuniting with cancer researcher Emma Carpenter-Flores, Tom’s daughter and the woman Sanjay left behind a decade ago.

Together, they uncover a trail of disturbing cases that put them directly in the crosshairs of a powerful medical-industrial complex. In a race against time, Sanjay and Emma must risk their lives to expose a truth that could shatter the foundations of modern medicine.

Perfect for fans of: Robin Cook, The Lincoln Lawyer, House, and HBO’s The Pitt.

Core Themes

A Dangerous Diagnosis dives deep into the complexities of the modern healthcare world, exploring:

Moral Injury: The psychological toll on providers within a broken system.
Ethics vs. Profit: The tension between patient care and corporate greed.
Redemption: A second chance at a lost legacy and a lost love.
Systemic Injustice: Uncovering the hidden flaws within the healthcare machine.

Meet the Author: Shantanu Rai

Shantanu Rai is a physician and writer who uses fiction to illuminate the hidden struggles of the American healthcare system. Drawing from years of frontline patient care, Rai blends his medical expertise with a lifelong love for Bollywood films and classic whodunits.

When he isn’t at the hospital or at his desk, you can find him hiking, enjoying a family movie night, or refueling with a strong cup of chai. A Dangerous Diagnosis is his first novel.

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Lent 2026: The Best Friday Fish Fry and Seafood Deals in San Antonio

The Gunter Hotel is offering delicious options for Lenten season. Photo: The Gunter Hotel, used with permission.

Savor the Season: Fat Tuesday & Lenten Specials in San Antonio

With Fat Tuesday (February 17) and Lent (starting February 18) just around the corner, San Antonio’s premier hotels and restaurants are rolling out exclusive seasonal menus. From decadent Mardi Gras cocktails to fresh seafood deals, here is your guide to navigating the best flavors in the city this spring. (The Gunter Hotel, Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, St. Anthony Hotel, La Panadería – 2026)

The Gunter Hotel

205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Lenten Dining at Jots

When: Daily, Feb 18 – April 2

The Dish: Pan Seared Alaskan Salmon.

Enjoy a sophisticated meal featuring a caviar velouté, herb crust, and shaved garlic Brussels sprouts. It’s a light yet indulgent way to observe the season.

Reserve a Table Here

Fat Tuesday at Keystone Club

When: Tuesday, Feb 17 (Walk-ins welcome)

The Drink: The King’s Cake Cocktail.

Toast to Mardi Gras with a decadent blend of Frangelico, Brugal rum, seasoned heavy cream, and a whole egg. It’s the ultimate liquid tribute to the classic carnival treat.

Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk

431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Seafood Specials at Dean’s Steak & Seafood

When: Daily, Feb 18 – April 2

Looking for premium seafood at a great value? Dean’s is offering 10% off all seafood dinner main courses throughout Lent.

Must-try items: Grilled Redfish and their signature Lobster Bisque.
Reserve a Table Here

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Friday Fish Fry at Corinne San Antonio

When: Every Friday during Lent, Feb 18 – April 2

Corinne is keeping things classic and comforting with a $15 Fish & Chips special. Available for both lunch and dinner, the plate features:

Crispy battered fish
Cabbage slaw & remoulade
House-made potato fries
Reserve a Table Here

St. Anthony Hotel

300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Seasonal Menus at Gallery on the Park

When: Ash Wednesday and every Friday during Lent

Whether you are stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Gallery on the Park is offering a curated selection of both light and indulgent seafood options designed to balance rich Texas flavors with seasonal traditions.

Reserve a Table Here

La Panadería

Available at all San Antonio locations

A Mardi Gras Twist: The Fiesta Lobster Roll

When: Available now through Lent

La Panadería is putting a coastal spin on their famous baking. Their Fiesta Lobster Roll is served on a signature spiral croissant and features:

Sautéed lobster with chipotle mayo
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives) and lemon zest
Served with a fresh house salad

Whether you’re indulging in a final Fat Tuesday feast or looking for your new favorite Lenten Friday tradition, San Antonio’s culinary scene has something spectacular waiting for you. These seasonal specials won’t last long, so be sure to grab your reservations early!

Peacock’s ‘Threshold’: A Raw Look at Jessie Diggins’ Journey from the ‘Pain Cave’ to Recovery

‘Threshold’ will premiere on Peacock on February 23. Photo: Brinkema Brothers Productions, used with permission.

The Struggle Behind the Smile: New Documentary ‘Threshold’ Premieres Feb 23

I’m excited to announce the upcoming premiere of Threshold, a powerful feature documentary chronicling the life of Olympic legend Jessie Diggins. The film will debut on Peacock on Monday, February 23rd, strategically timed to coincide with the Winter Olympic Games. (EG PR, 2026)

At a Glance

Premiere Date: Monday, February 23rd on Peacock
Directed by: Lars Brinkema and Torsten Brinkema
Featuring: Jessie Diggins
Executive Producers: Torsten Brinkema, Patrick Dempsey
Music by: Julianna Barwick & Mary Lattimore
Running Time: 85 minutes

The Story: Beyond the Gold

Threshold is the story of the most decorated American cross-country skier ever, Jessie Diggins, and the painful fight with an eating disorder that occurred at the very peak of her career.

This is more than a sports story; it is a visceral, human account of vulnerability and recovery unfolding in real-time. Through unprecedented access to Jessie and the U.S. Ski Team, the film explores a disorder that often hides in plain sight, yet remains tragically misunderstood in professional athletics.

A Season Lived in Real-Time

The film unfolds over a single, high-stakes season, intercutting present-day vérité footage with decisive moments from Jessie’s past. It traces how a relentless pursuit of perfection led her to believe that controlling her body mass was the only key to success.

From grueling races above the Arctic Circle to the first World Cup on American snow in over 25 years, the documentary tracks the mounting pressure of elite sport. Ultimately, Threshold is a film about hope, proving that relapse is not failure and asking for help is not a weakness.

About the Subjects

Jessie Diggins | Olympic Gold Medalist

A three-time Olympic medalist, Jessie is known for her legendary ability to enter the “Pain Cave” during the closing moments of the world’s most grueling races. As the reigning two-time World Champion, she will compete in an extraordinary six different events at the 2026 Olympic Games.

Off the snow, Jessie is a fierce advocate for:

Mental Health: Managing and speaking openly about eating disorder recovery.
Sustainability: Raising awareness about the effects of global warming on winter sports.
Resilience: Sharing her experience on teamwork and mental toughness.

Lars Brinkema | Director & Cinematographer

Based in Los Angeles, Lars Brinkema began his career in photojournalism documenting the Minneapolis community’s resilience following the murder of George Floyd. His award-winning short, I Pray, set the stage for his feature directorial debut with Threshold.

When Jessie entrusted Lars with her story, the project became a personal mission rooted in his commitment to intimate, character-driven storytelling that fosters genuine social change.

“By allowing herself to be seen, Jessie offers something rare to those living in silence: proof that you can reclaim your health and your dreams.”

Where to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in San Antonio: Date Night & Galentine’s Picks

The Study at Dean’s. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.

More Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Antonio 💕

San Antonio is turning up the romance this Valentine’s season. From heart-themed desserts and intimate chef-driven dinners to luxe hotel packages and festive Galentine’s gatherings, the city is full of ways to celebrate love — whether that’s with a partner, your best friends, or yourself.

Here’s your guide to more Valentine’s happenings around town.

🍰 Bakery Lorraine

Valentine’s & Galentine’s Treats
📅 February 1 – 15
📍 All Bakery Lorraine locations

Bakery Lorraine is offering a collection of sweet (and slightly edgy) Valentine’s treats perfect for gifting or indulging.

One highlight? Proceeds from the chocolate cherry macaron will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank throughout February, so your dessert does some good, too.

Available In-Store:

Sugar Skull Shortbread Cookies – Vanilla shortbread decorated with fondant and royal icing accents (individually bagged and gift-ready).
“Love You to Death” Vanilla Raspberry Skull Cakes – Moist vanilla cake with tart raspberry filling and buttercream flower eyes.
Heart Shortbread Cookie Stack – Pink vanilla shortbread cookies tied with string.
Dark Cherry & Chocolate Tiramisu – Coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with dark cherry compote and mascarpone.
Raspberry Rose Japonaise – A delicate macaron filled with raspberry rose and mascarpone, topped with fresh raspberries and rose petals.

🌹Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

📍 555 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Timeless Romance Hotel & Spa Package

📅 February 13 – 15

Enjoy a romantic retreat featuring:

$100 food & beverage or spa credit
Complimentary valet
A bottle of bubbles
Chocolate-covered strawberries

Book a spa treatment and receive a truffle takeaway, or purchase a $250 gift card and receive a $25 spa enhancement credit.

Where Love Lingers: Valentine’s Dinner at Corinne

📅 February 13 – 14
💲 $95 per person

Indulge in a chef-curated five-course meal at Corinne San Antonio, designed for an elegant and intimate evening.

Galentine’s: Leopard & Lace at Anaqua Garden Bar

📅 Friday, February 13
⏰ 7 PM – 10 PM

Celebrate Galentine’s in garden glam style with creative cocktails, interactive games, and playful activations. Expect a lively atmosphere designed for connection and fun.

Highlights Include:

Photo station
Temporary tattoo station
Lip gloss charm station
Bic lighter decorations
Hair tinsel & braid bar
Large Confession Burn Book
Card games at every table, including “We’re Not Really Strangers”

🥂Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk

📍 431 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Lover’s Retreat Hotel Package

📅 February 13 – 15

Couples can enjoy:

Bubbles & chocolate-covered strawberries
Romantic welcome amenity
$150 food & beverage credit
Late checkout

Perfect for a relaxed, indulgent River Walk escape.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood Valentine’s Experience

📅 February 13 – 15
⏰ 11 AM – 9 PM

Located in a historic 19th-century schoolhouse, Dean’s offers prime steaks, A5 Japanese and Texas wagyu, and premium seafood.

Outdoor globe dining is available for a uniquely memorable experience. Valentine’s add-ons can be arranged through OpenTable.

The Valentine’s Reserve at The Study at Dean’s

📅 Saturday, February 13
⏰ 5 PM – 11 PM

An intimate celebration featuring:

Live cigar rolling
Expertly curated pours
A refined atmosphere made for unhurried conversation

Love is in the Air at Tenfold Rooftop

📅 February 13 – 15
⏰ 12 PM – 1 AM

Celebrate ten floors above the city with skyline views and curated cocktails.

Cabana and premium table reservations include:

A chilled bottle of bubbles
Chocolate fondue with strawberries
A bouquet of roses

💌The Gunter Hotel

📍 311 N St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX 78205

Make It a Moment Hotel Package

This romantic escape includes:

Complimentary sparkling wine
Curated romantic vinyl selections
$50 food & beverage credit
Luxurious his-and-her robes to take home

Jots Sweetheart Dinner for Two

📅 Saturday, February 14
💲 $150 for two

Enjoy a special three-course Valentine’s menu designed to delight the senses.

Paris Baguette Valentine’s Delights

📍 205 E Houston St

The international South Korean bakery is offering limited-time handcrafted cakes and Pink Velvet pastries, available while supplies last.

Galentine’s & Piano Love Songs at Bar 414

📅 Saturday, February 14
🎹 Live music from 9 PM – 12 AM

Toast to friendship at this speakeasy-inspired lounge inside The Gunter Hotel.

San Antonio–born pianist and vocalist Chris Guerrero will perform classic and guest-requested love songs, blending refined jazz with crowd-favorite sing-alongs.

💐The St. Anthony Hotel

📍 300 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Celebrating Love & Friendship at Esencia

📅 February 10 – 14

Esencia is offering prix fixe menus ideal for couples and Galentine’s gatherings alike. Guests can enjoy shared appetizers, two entrées, and a shared dessert, thoughtfully crafted and priced per person.

Toast to Romance at Anacacho Coffee & Cantina

📅 February 10 – 14

Enjoy special Valentine’s cocktails in a festive and romantic setting.

Candlelight & Jazz at Gallery on the Park

📅 Friday, February 13
⏰ 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
💲 $205 per person

This four-course, chef-curated dinner includes:

Live Latin jazz by Grammy-nominated artist Henry Brun
A complimentary glass of champagne
Candlelit ambiance
Valet parking

An elevated evening designed for timeless romance.

🥧Otto’s Ice House

📍 111 Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
🕚 Open daily at 11 AM

Located in the Historic Pearl District, Otto’s Ice House offers a casual, riverside setting perfect for low-key Valentine’s plans.

For something sweet, Goode Co.’s Brazos Bottom Pecan Pies are available to ship nationwide. Each pie comes in a handcrafted keepsake box with one of three limited-edition messages:

“Pie Love You”
“Ride or Pie”
“Bless Your Heart”

💲 $60 per pie

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxe dinner reservation, or a festive Galentine’s night out, San Antonio offers something for every kind of love story this season. 💗

Ana Cristina Cash Releases New Bilingual Album ‘The Sunshine State’

Ana Cristina Cash explores her roots in her new album. Photo: Gina Binkley, used with permission.

A Fusion of Heritage and Harmony: Ana Cristina Cash Releases New Bilingual Album, The Sunshine State

Acclaimed songstress Ana Cristina Cash has officially released her latest project, The Sunshine State. A masterful blend of her Cuban-American roots and her home in the heart of country music, this bilingual album is now available across all major streaming platforms. (Aristo PR, 2026)

Recorded at the legendary Cash Cabin Studio in Hendersonville, Tennessee and produced by John Carter Cash and Willie Breeding, the album is a testament to Ana Cristina’s versatility. Listeners can expect to hear her remarkable vocal range on full display, transitioning effortlessly from a resonant contralto to a soaring soprano.

The Duality of Sound

Having spent over a decade in Nashville, Ana Cristina’s artistry is firmly grounded in country music. However, her Spanish lineage provides a distinct depth that sets this project apart.

“That duality is present in everything I do,” says Ana Cristina. “I’m proud to be an American living in Nashville… and equally proud of my Hispanic culture. I grew up speaking both English and Spanish at home, so it felt natural to record Spanish versions of several of my songs.”

Track Highlights

The album serves as a cultural crossroads, featuring a mix of English, Spanish, and Spanglish tracks:

“Daybreak” / “Un Break”: The breezy opening single and its Spanish counterpart.
“Florida Girl”: A heartfelt nod to her roots.
“Cheap Margaritas”: Available in both the original and a playful Spanglish version.
“Last Call”: A fiery track featured in both languages.
Brand New Tunes: Including the nostalgic “Janice” and “Don’t Give Up.”

Inspired by the Everglades

Much of the album’s imagery is drawn from Ana Cristina’s childhood in rural West Miami. She recalls a time when the area was “wild and untouched,” bordered by the Florida Everglades.

“The first home I grew up in… I only had four neighbors, a dirt road, orange trees in the backyard, and our own chickens,” she notes. “That formative period of my life influenced so much of this record.”

About Ana Cristina Cash

Ana Cristina’s career began at the age of six. By 15, she had signed with Sony Music Latin. Her career is marked by historic milestones, including:

Historic Performances: The first Hispanic American to perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” at a presidential inauguration (2005).
Iconic Venues: Performances at the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Madison Square Garden.
Nashville Legacy: Married to John Carter Cash since 2016, she continues to record at the historic Cash Cabin Studio and recently signed a global publishing deal with BMG Rights Management.

The Sunshine State is out now. Experience the soulful blend of country and Latin influences today.

The Sunshine State tracklist:

“Daybreak”
“Cheap Margaritas”
“Florida Girl”
“Janice”
“Last Call”
“Don’t Give Up”
“Un Break (Daybreak Versión En Español)”
“Cheap Margaritas (Spanglish Version)”
“Tu Última Llamada (Last Call Versión En Español)”

‘The Accident’: A Gripping Tale of Secrets, Lies, and a Small-Town Tragedy

‘The Accident’ is the new YA thriller by Lori Miller Kase. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Spotlight: The Accident by Lori Miller Kase

The Accident is a tense, emotionally charged YA novel that explores how one terrible moment can fracture families, friendships, and a teenager’s sense of right and wrong.

Overview

Hannah has a secret: She thinks she knows who’s behind the hit-and-run accident that killed a popular high school football player in her small Connecticut town. But could it really be her brother, Rob? Or worse, his best friend Zach, the first boy to show her any romantic attention? (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

As the police investigation unfolds and Hannah falls hard for Zach, she vows to protect them both. Consumed with guilt, she finds herself lying to her parents and her friends alike.

The Breaking Point

Tensions mount as Hannah discovers she and Rob aren’t the only ones in the family with a secret. As her friends turn against her and two different versions of the truth emerge, she is forced to decide where her loyalties lie: With her brother? Or with her boyfriend?

The Accident is a story about choices and consequences, secrets and lies, and what happens when you follow your heart instead of your conscience.

Review: A Deep Dive into Moral Complexity

Set in a small Connecticut town, Kase captures the claustrophobic pressure of secrets where everyone watches and rumors spread faster than facts. Hannah’s guilt feels palpable as she convinces herself that loyalty is the same as love.

What Makes This a Must-Read:

Vivid Imagery: The narrative is written in the first person with poetic language. Kase writes: “A bright yellow or red leaf clings stubbornly to a limb here and there, but most of the foliage now litters the grass and the walkways like giant pieces of confetti.”
Fast-Paced Plot: Short chapters keep the action flowing seamlessly, making it a “one-sitting” kind of read.
Relatable Themes: By exploring family, identity, and betrayal, the book avoids easy answers. It forces readers to sit with uncomfortable questions about self-deception and the cost of protecting the people we love.

The Bottom Line: The Accident is a suspenseful family drama and a sharp reminder that choices, once made, never come without consequences. Fans of YA coming-of-age fiction will find Hannah’s journey of self-reflection deeply relatable.

“I stand outside The Music Shoppe and stare after the boy and his babysitter long after they disappear from view. Then I walk home and cry. For the boy, for Tyler, for all their family has lost.”

About the Author

Lori Miller Kase is an award-winning journalist, short story writer, essayist, and young adult author. Her work has appeared in prestigious publications including The Atlantic, Vogue, Literary Mama, Brain, Child, and Discover.

With a background as a reporter-trainee at The New York Times and a health editor at Vogue, Lori has covered everything from neuroscience to clean beauty. However, as a lifelong lover of books, her true passion lies in writing for children and young adults.

*Thank you to Meryl Moss Media for the gifted copy for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Valentine’s Day Weekend Ideas in San Antonio for Couples, Friends & Self-Love

Jason Dady restaurants will offer romantic Valentine’s Day prix-fixe dinners. Photo: Jason Dady Restaurant Group, used with permission.

More Valentine’s Day Celebration Ideas to Love 💘

With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, there’s still time to plan a memorable weekend with that special someone, or gather your friends for a festive twist on romance. From indulgent spa days to rooftop dinners and Hill Country escapes, these experiences offer something for every kind of Valentine.

🌹 River Walk Romance at Four Brothers Southern Provisions

Soak in the River Walk’s charming atmosphere while dining at Four Brothers Southern Provisions at Omni La Mansión del Rio. Elevate the experience with a romantic overnight stay by booking the From Omni, With Love package. (Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2026)

Package highlights include:

A pre-arrival call with Omni’s Love Concierge
Sparkling wine and chocolates
A $50 date-night credit
Late check-out for lingering moments together

🖤 A “Heart-Slasher” Galentine’s Night

Four Brothers also puts a playful spin on Galentine’s Day with a horror-themed prix-fixe dinner inspired by Friday the 13th.

Featured menu items include:

Camp Crystal Lake Salad
Slasher Steak
Ki-Ki-Ki Ma-Ma-Ma — a white chocolate and red berry deconstruction of the film’s iconic mask

A perfect choice for friends who prefer their Valentine’s celebrations with a twist.

🍷 Wine & Bites at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches

For trendy wine lovers, explore the newly launched wine program at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, just steps from the Pearl. This chic neighborhood café offers a curated selection of wines & bites, including N/A options, designed for relaxed, intimate evenings. (The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, 2026)

From lively bubbles to juicy reds, selections by certified sommelier and Beverage Director Austin Tabbone set the tone for connection, conversation, and romance.

🌿 Hill Country Bliss at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness

Escape downtown and head to the Texas Hill Country for rejuvenation at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness at Signia by Hilton La Cantera. (Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, 2026)

The Endless Love Package transports guests to a serene oasis and includes a sweet sip of Blush Cotton Candy Bubbly, because Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without candy-inspired indulgence. Ideal for couples, friends, or a solo self-love retreat.

💞 A Romance-Infused Retreat at Hyatt Regency Hill Country

The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, set across 300 scenic acres, is offering a Valentine’s weekend escape designed for relaxation and connection. (Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, 2026)

Highlights include:

A special romance package
Spa experiences
A “’Til Death Do Us Part” murder mystery event
A romantic dinner for two at Antlers Lodge

🌙 Elevated Valentine’s Weekend at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

This February, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk sets the scene for a chic Valentine’s escape with elevated dining and indulgent in-room experiences. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2026)

February 13–15 highlights:

Valentine’s Prix-Fixe Dinner at The Moon’s Daughters
- $115 per person
- Live music on February 13
- DJ on Valentine’s Day
Romantic in-room packages ranging from Sweetheart Haven to Lovers Luxe Escape, featuring champagne, caviar, spa-inspired amenities, and immersive décor

💆‍♀️ Restorative Relaxation at Oak Haven Massage

Treat your loved one to therapeutic relaxation at Oak Haven Massage, known for its nurturing, wellness-focused approach. (Oak Haven Massage, 2026)

Valentine’s Offer | Now through February 13

$99 — 50-minute Tier 1 massage (save $16)
$155 — 80-minute Tier 1 massage (save $20)
$15 — 25-minute sauna session (save $15)

Post-Valentine’s Offer | February 15
The same promotions return for those extending the celebration, or making up for a missed holiday.

Appointments can be booked online or by phone at Oak Haven’s Alamo Heights, Bulverde, or Huebner locations.

🍽️ Prix-Fixe Dinners with Jason Dady Restaurant Group

The Jason Dady Restaurant Group will offer chef-curated, multi-course prix-fixe Valentine’s dinners, complete with optional wine pairings, at the following locations:

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Range
125 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX 78205
Prix-Fixe Dinner | 4–10 p.m.

Tre Trattoria
200 W. Jones Ave.
San Antonio, TX 78215
Prix-Fixe Dinner | 3–10 p.m.

Roca & Martillo
1 Spurs Way
San Antonio, TX 78256
Prix-Fixe Dinner | 4–11 p.m.

In partnership with The Rock at La Cantera’s Flirty Flix, Roca & Martillo will also offer charcuterie and cheese spreads for two, available at the Roca bar window. Guests can enjoy lawn screenings of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Sweet Home Alabama, beginning at 5 p.m.

Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a spa day steeped in self-care, or a Galentine’s night with a little edge, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate love in all its forms. So grab the reservations, cue the champagne (or mocktails), and make a weekend of it—because romance doesn’t have to be predictable to be unforgettable. 💕

New World Trilogy: Why Patrick Ness’ New Book is the Must-Read Sci-Fi of 2026

The king of dystopian YA books is back with ‘Piper at the Gates of Dusk.’ Photo: Barnes & Noble

Return to the Noise: Patrick Ness Reinvents the Chaos Walking Universe

Patrick Ness is making a thrilling return to the world of Chaos Walking with his highly anticipated new YA novel, Piper at the Gates of Dusk. (Candlewick Press, 2026)

As the first installment in the extraordinary New World trilogy, this is a timely work of science fiction that dissects the interplay of fear, power, and propaganda. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original series or a newcomer to Ness’s visceral storytelling, this book is set to be a definitive literary event of the year.

Mark Your Calendars: The release date is Tuesday, April 7, 2026, and it is available for pre-order now.

Book Overview: A New Generation, A New Threat

It has been twenty years since the monstrous war that nearly tore New World apart. For Todd and Viola’s sons, Ben and Max, life on the family farm has been defined by peace and the typical dreams of school and adventure, until the nightmares began.

A sudden sickness is sweeping through the youth of New World. It infects them with Noise, manifesting as their darkest, most self-destructive thoughts. As the planet’s uneasy truce begins to crumble, the mystery deepens:

The Spackle: Suspicion falls on the indigenous people of New World.
The Sky: A mysterious object looms overhead, watching the planet.
The Disappearances: One by one, the children of New World are vanishing.

Caught in a race for answers, Ben (armed with his mother’s logic) and Max (carrying his father’s courage) embark on separate quests. Their journeys will force them to question everything—their parents, their brotherhood, and their very right to exist on this planet.

About the Author: Patrick Ness

Patrick Ness is a titan of dystopian fiction. His original Chaos Walking trilogy has sold over three million copies worldwide, cementing his reputation for high-stakes, emotional storytelling.

Ness is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller A Monster Calls (inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd), which won both the Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Medals and was adapted into a major motion picture. His diverse body of work includes:

More Than This
The Rest of Us Just Live Here
Burn
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody

With two Carnegie Medals, an Olivier Award, and a Costa Children’s Book Award to his name, Ness continues to push the boundaries of YA literature from his homes in Los Angeles and London.

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Romantic Valentine’s Day Dining Options in the San Antonio Area

Mezquite Spread. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.

Valentine’s Day Dining Guide: Romantic & Relaxed Restaurant Offerings

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Pullman Market’s offerings range from high-end, special-occasion dining experiences at Isidore and Nicosi to relaxed, approachable options at Fife & Farro and the Mezcaleria—ensuring there’s something for every kind of celebration. (Pullman Market, 2026)

Mezquite’s Sonoran-Inspired Valentine’s Dinner for Two

Mezquite’s Valentine’s Day menu draws from the rich flavors and traditions of Sonoran cuisine. Crafted for two, the dinner invites couples to savor each course and enjoy a relaxed, intimate evening together. Thoughtful dishes and warm hospitality set the tone for a cozy, memorable night.

Price: $55 per person
Optional beverage pairing: $35 per person
Reservations: Available via OpenTable

Mezcaleria’s All-Day Valentine’s Option

For those looking to keep things casual, the Mezcaleria offers a laid-back way to celebrate. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight, the bar will be serving cocktails, food, and good energy all day long—perfect for a spontaneous date, a Galentine’s toast, or a nightcap to end the evening.

Walk-ins only

Nicosi’s Specialty Valentine’s Day Experience

At Nicosi, Valentine’s Day is centered around connection and indulgence. The Michelin Star dessert tasting menu concept will offer a one-night-only, multi-course experience exclusive to the holiday, encouraging guests to savor each moment together.

Price: $200 per guest
Includes: Choice of non-alcoholic pairing or wine & cocktail pairing
Reservations: Available via OpenTable
Note: Seating is extremely limited

Isidore’s Valentine’s Day 8-Course Tasting Menu

Isidore welcomes guests for a Michelin Star Valentine’s celebration with an elegant eight-course tasting menu. An optional wine pairing is also available, thoughtfully selected to complement each course and elevate the evening.

Tasting menu: $175 per person
Optional wine pairing: $100 per person
Reservations: Available via OpenTable

Fife & Farro’s Relaxed, Family-Friendly Valentine’s Option

Fife & Farro at Pullman Market offers a more laid-back way to celebrate, featuring wood-fired sourdough pizzas and handmade pastas made with heritage grains.

Reservations: Available via OpenTable for Valentine’s Day only
(Note: Reservations are not typically offered at Fife & Farro)
Same-day diners: Encouraged to join the waitlist
Walk-ins: Always welcome

Valentine’s Day Dining Around San Antonio & New Braunfels

San Antonio and New Braunfels’ premier restaurants—including Clementine, Maverick Texas Brasserie, Muck & Fuss, and more—are offering curated menus and intimate ambiance designed to create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day.

Clementine

Clementine, the Castle Hills neighborhood gem is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a chef-driven prix-fixe dinner designed for lingering conversations and shared moments. Offered February 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the menu reflects James Beard Award finalist John Russ’s Southern roots and global sensibility, balancing bold comfort with refined elegance.

Reservations: Encouraged via OpenTable

Maverick Texas Brasserie

The Southtown favorite blends French technique with Texas flair for a romantic surf-and-turf prix-fixe dinner.

Price: $200 per couple
Reservations: Highly encouraged via OpenTable

Muck & Fuss / Sidecar at Prince Solms Inn

The downtown New Braunfels restaurant is celebrating Valentine’s Day for everyone, offering two prix-fixe menus welcoming couples, solo diners, and families alike—honoring romance, self-love, and quality time.

For a nightcap or post-dinner outing, guests can step next door to Sidecar, known for its vintage speakeasy vibe and live music. For the holiday, Sidecar will feature a curated menu of shareable bites and cocktails, including:

Charcuterie board
Creamy peppercorn fillet
Basque cheesecake for a sweet finish

Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

Southtown’s contemporary Mexican restaurant is spreading the love with the return of its popular Galentine-ARITA cocktail, available February 13–15. Made with El Tequileno, this pink, sparkling margarita is a festive favorite.

Rosario’s and El Tequileno are also hosting a Valentine’s Day giveaway for a free dinner for two, running through February 11, with details and the winner announced on Instagram.

Tip: Calling ahead or joining the waitlist is highly recommended for Valentine’s Day dining

Copa Wine Bar

Stone Oak’s community wine bar and restaurant is celebrating Valentine’s Day with all-day specials from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Reservations: Not required but encouraged
Call: (210) 495-2672 to reserve

Smashin Crab

San Antonio’s authentic Creole and Cajun seafood restaurant is offering a luxurious Lovers Seafood Boil for two during Valentine’s weekend.

Available: February 13–15
Locations: All three Smashin Crab locations

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