Austin, Texas

This Valentine’s Day, head to Austin, Texas! According to CNN Headline News and Travel & Leisure magazine, Austin ranks No. 2 on the list of U.S. cities with the best people, referring to the personalities and attributes of the citizens
(ie: good looking!!).

Austin makes for the perfect low maintenance getaway. Surround yourself with your friends during this “couple’s” holiday, explore unique shopping (see the Best Stores in Austin here), dining, live music and more. It’s also home to Lake Austin Spa Resort, the #1 Destination Spa in North America (by Condé Nast Traveler).

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THINGS TO DO, VISIT THE AUSTIN CVB

Accommodations:

STAY AT THE SAN JOSE HOTEL ON SOUTH CONGRESS FOR A GLIMPSE OF THE FUNKY SIDE OF AUSTIN

WANT TO STAY AT THE SPA ALL WEEKEND? LAKE AUSTIN SPA RESORT
IS THE PLACE!

FOR A SOPHISTICATED STAY, SLUMBER AT THE FOUR SEASONS AUSTIN!

The Culinary Art of Seduction
Dallas | Fearing’s

Celebrity chef, Dean Fearing’s own restaurant is the perfect place to treat someone to exquisite food. The service and southwestern flavor is like no other. Be sure to make a reservation.

2121 MCKINNEY AVENUE (inside the Ritz-Carlton)
DALLAS, TEXAS 75201
214.922.4848
MAKE A RESERVATION HERE

Fredericksburg | Austin’s at Rose Hill Manor

With fine wine, an intimate atmosphere and European-style dining (read: they won’t rush you) it makes for a great romantic evening. Located inside the award-winning lodge, Rose Hill Manor, the restaurant is a local favorite. Yes, make a reservation!

2614 UPPER ALBERT ROAD
STONEWALL, TEXAS 78671
1.877.ROSEHIL
MAKE A RESERVATION HERE

Houston | Da Marco Cucina E Vino

Reservations are a must at this authentic Italian upscale restaurant. The wine is supreme and the food is divine. If you like lots of flavor and dishes that are hard to find anywhere else. You must try the pasta with truffles.

1520 WESTHEIMER ROAD
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77006
713.807.8857
MAKE A RESERVATION HERE

San Antonio | Citrus

Citrus is located in the luxurious Hotel Valencia River Walk. Dine on eclectic cuisine while overlooking the scenic RiverWalk. Hello, romance! Most menu items are made with local ingredients. Make sure to call for a reservation.

150 EAST HOUSTON STREET
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78205-2223
210.227.9700
MAKE A RESERVATION HERE

The Artsy Side of Politics

If you find yourself at the State Capitol in Austin during February, take notice of the paintings and bronze sculptures on the first floor of the Rotunda. It’s the work of 36 talented Texas artists on display February 15–27. This will be the longest-running art exhibit ever hosted by the Texas State Capitol.

Artists on exhibit include:

• Kyle Polzin
• Roy Andersen
• Nancy Bush
• Bruce Greene,
• TD Kelsey
• Roebrt Pummill
• Teresa Elliott
• Mark Haworth
• John Austin Hanna
• Donna Howell-Sickles
• Jill Carver
• John Pototschnik
• Tony Eubanks
• and many more!

If you miss the exhibit at the Capitol, you’re in luck. Starting March 2 (which happens to be Texas Independence Day), InSight Gallery in Fredericksburg will house the exhibit through April 15.

VISIT THE CAPITOL BUILDING ONLINE
VISIT INSIGHT GALLERY ONLINE

Killeen/Belton Lake | Nature in Lights Celebration

Now–Jan. 3, 2010

Kick off the holiday season with a trip to the 13TH annual Nature in Lights celebration. Drive through 5 miles of holiday-themed light scenes and visit Santa at his village for photos, crafts, hot cocoa and cookies.

Open nightly 7–10pm

VISIT NATURE IN LIGHTS ONLINE

JUMP TO
UPSCALE
STEAKHOUSES
BURGER JOINTS
HOME COOKING
BBQ

UPSCALE

Fearing’s

Following his 20-year tenure at the Mansion on Turtle Creek, Chef Dean Fearing struck culinary gold when he opened his eponymous restaurant inside Dallas’ Ritz-Carlton hotel. Featuring haute American cuisine with southwest influences, Fearing’s delights with innovative design and a big ol’ helping of Texas hospitality.  Don’t be surprised if you see Chef Fearing himself mingling with patrons. Signature dishes include the Maple-Black Peppercorn Soaked Buffalo Tenderloin and the Georges Bank Sea Scallops with Shredded Short Ribs.

2121 MCKINNEY AVENUE
DALLAS, TX 75201
214.922.4848
VISIT FEARING’S ONLINE
MAP IT

Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck

Named for how many feet above the ground it stands, Five Sixty is Dallas’ newest culinary gem. Serving Asian-influenced cuisine in a modern, “Zen-like” setting atop Reunion Tower, Chef Wolfgang Puck has made his mark on Dallas. Providing panoramic views as it slowly rotates above the city’s skyline, Five Sixty is a must-see for locals and tourists alike.

300 REUNION BOULEVARD
DALLAS, TEXAS 75207
214.741.5560
VISIT FIVE SIXTY ONLINE

The Mansion on Turtle Creek

This award-winning, five-star restaurant is a mainstay of Dallas fine dining. Specializing in contemporary American cuisine with local and regional flavors, The Mansion is responsible for making tortilla soup famous. The perfectly prepared steaks and seafood followed by decadent desserts are sure to impress.

2821 TURTLE CREEK BOULEVARD
DALLAS, TEXAS 75219
214.559.2100
VISIT THE MANSION ONLINE
MAP IT

Mi Piaci

True to its name—Mi Piaci is Italian for “it pleases me”—Italian food connoisseurs everywhere are exceedingly pleased with this Dallas gem. Mi Piaci’s authentic northern Italian cuisine has earned it accolades as Zagat’s “Best Italian Restaurant in Texas” for three years running. Whether it’s one of the four varieties of house-made risotto or a simple dish of penne arrabbiata, the entrées here will keep you

14854 MONTFORT DRIVE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75254
972.934.8424
VISIT MI PIACI ONLINE

Stephan Pyles

Known for “New Millennium Southwestern Cuisine,” Chef Stephan Pyles serves up a mélange of multi-cultural flavors at his Design District restaurant. In addition to fine food, the restaurant also dishes up an artistic feast, as each dining area features exquisite traditional and modern artwork. Stephan Pyles also has a tapas and ceviche bar that caters to lighter fare.

1807 ROSS AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75201
214.580.7000
VISIT STEPHAN PYLES ONLINE

Abacus

World-renowned Chef Kent Rathbun serves up eclectic cuisine with varying cultural influences at Uptown restaurant Abacus. With a menu that ranges from sushi and edamame to buffalo tenderloin to seared scallops, Abacus truly has a dish to suit every palate.

4511 MCKINNEY AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75205
214.559.3111
VISIT ABACUS ONLINE

BACK TO TOP

STEAKHOUSES

Al Biernat’s

With a menu that extends past the traditional steak and seafood fare with entrées such as veal osso bucco and pan-seared sea bass over lobster risotto, Al Biernat’s is known as one of the best restaurants in the world. Far from stuffy, Al Biernat himself acts as the restaurant’s hand-shaking, cheek-kissing host.

4217 OAK LAWN AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75219
214.219.2201
VISIT AL BIERNAT’S ONLINE

Bob’s Steak & Chop House

Stiff drinks, prime steaks, and hand-selected seafood come together in this club-like setting to create one of Dallas’ favorite steakhouses.

4300 LEMMON AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75219
214.528.9446
VISIT BOB’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE ONLINE

Perry’s

This award-winning, nationally recognized steakhouse features prime hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and signature cocktails combined with a warm, elegant atmosphere.

2911 ROUTH STREET
DALLAS, TEXAS 75201
214.871.9991
VISIT PERRY’S ONLINE

Del Frisco’s

The foundation of Del Frisco’s menu is the USDA prime beef (cut right off the loin when you place your order) and the Australian cold water lobster tail. Fresh baked bread, family–style sides, and award-winning lemon cake round out the menu.

5251 SPRING VALLEY ROAD
DALLAS, TEXAS 75254
972.490.9000
VISIT DEL FRISCO’S ONLINE

BACK TO TOP

BURGER JOINTS

Goff’s

A University Park institution, Goff’s is a classic burger joint. Make sure to try the #9 with cheese & the #2 sauce.

6401 HILLCREST AVENUE.
DALLAS, TEXAS 75205
214.520.9133
VISIT GOFF’S ONLINE

Jake’s

Located in the heart of Uptown Dallas, Jake’s is the burger joint to see and be seen. Head to the big outdoor porch for a $3 frozen margarita and people watching on McKinney Ave.

2702 MCKINNEY AVENUE
DALLAS, TX 75204
214.754.8001
VISIT JAKE’S ONLINE

Twisted Root Burger Co.

Everything, and we do mean everything, is homemade. Hand-rolled burger patties, hand-cut Idaho and sweet potato fries, homemade ice cream, homemade pickles, and homemade root beer. Even homemade ketchup, mustard, and bbq sauce! Need we say more?

2615 COMMERCE STREET
DALLAS, TEXAS 75226
214.741.4406
VISIT TWISTED ROOT BURGER CO. ONLINE

BACK TO TOP

HOME COOKING

Bubba’s

Housed in a renovated 1927 Texaco service station, this art deco-style diner is a University Park institution. Famous for fried chicken, Bubba’s also serves breakfast favorites like biscuits and gravy.

6617 HILLCREST AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75205
214.373.6527
VISIT BUBBA’S ONLINE

The Porch

A favorite of former First Lady Laura Bush, this restaurant specializes in down home cooking and uptown cocktails. The 45’ bar features hand-crafted cocktails made with house-made syrups, infusions, and fresh juices.

2916 N. HENDERSON AVENUE
DALLAS, TX 75206
214.828.2916
VISIT THE PORCH ONLINE

Tillman’s Roadhouse

Located in the heart of the Bishop Arts District, this casual come-as-you-are eatery is an update on the classic Texas roadhouse. Traditional favorites are updated with a gourmet twist—smoked brisket quesadillas, and venison Frito pie are among the choice dishes.

324 W. 7 TH STREET
DALLAS, TEXAS 75208
214.942.0988
VISIT TILLMAN’S ROADHOUSE ONLINE

BACK TO TOP

MEXICAN/TEX-MEX

Javier’s

An upscale Mexican eatery, Javier’s is located in Highland Park, and the menu features beef tenderloin, red snapper, and Chilean sea bass. The lounge and cigar bar really set this locale apart from the rest.

4912 COLE AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75205
214.521.4211
VISIT JAVIER’S ONLINE

Manny’s

Conveniently located right off of Central Expressway, this popular Uptown eatery is known for the brisket tacos. Situated in a stand-alone renovated house, Manny’s has a cozy atmosphere and wonderful service.

3521 OAK GROVE AVENUE
DALLAS, TX 75204
214.252.1616
VISIT MANNY’S ONLINE

Mia’s

A true family-owned business, Mia’s has been a favorite among Dallas Cowboys and celebrities for years. The signature dish, Butch’s Original Brisket Tacos, keeps everyone coming back for more.

4322 LEMMON AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75219
214.526.1020
VISIT MIA’S ONLINE

Monica’s

ALocated in the historic Deep Ellum neighborhood, Monica’s serves up authentic Mexico City cuisine. We recommend checking out the Live Latin Jazz and excellent brunch on the weekend as well as the $4.99 lunch specials and drink deals throughout the week.

2914 MAIN STREET
DALLAS, TEXAS 75226
214.748.7140
VISIT MONICA’S ONLINE

BACK TO TOP

BBQ

Big Al’s Smokehouse

Big Al’s serves authentic Texas barbecue from secret family recipes. With all your favorites, like meat by the pound and classic sides like potato salad and ranch beans, Big Al’s is classic Texas all the way.

3125 INWOOD ROAD
DALLAS, TEXAS 75235
214.350.2649
VISIT BIG AL’S SMOKEHOUSE ONLINE

Peggy Sue BBQ

Located in historic Snider Plaza, just across Hillcrest Road from SMU, Peggy Sue BBQ serves up only the leanest, highest quality meats along with freshly steamed veggies. Meat lovers and Vegetarians alike can happily dine at Peggy Sue BBQ.

6600 SNIDER PLAZA
DALLAS, TEXAS 75205
214.987.9188
VISIT PEGGY SUE BBQ ONLINE

Sammy’s BBQ

This is where the white-collar Uptown/Downtown working crowd line up out the door for lunch. Hearty chopped beef is a favorite, along with yummy sides like lumpy potato and cheddar cheese casserole studded with bacon, chives and sour cream. Served cafeteria-style, Sammy’s is the real deal.

2126 LEONARD STREET
DALLAS, TEXAS 75201
214.880.9064
VISIT SAMMY’S ONLINE

Smoke

The Belmont Hotel’s new restaurant Smoke serves up some of Dallas’ best barbecue. The concept is inspired by Chef Tim Byres’ travels to America’s smokehouse roots, so every dish is authentic. Barbecue orders are done by Scantron (reminiscent of a sushi order) where patrons can select portion size and sides in one fell swoop. Complimentary fresh-from-the-oven cornbread served with Kentucky sorghum molasses butter and sour jalapeno jelly complete the experience.

901 FORT WORTH AVENUE
DALLAS, TEXAS 75208
214.393.2300
VISIT SMOKE ONLINE