Ahh, Valentine's Day. A time for romance, connection, and convincing yourself a $20 cocktail is totally worth it.. Whether you're celebrating with a new spark, your long-term love, or just your fine-ass self, Austin has some seriously swoon-worthy date spots that are guaranteed to impress.

I’ve compiled a list of five spots that bring the ambiance, the allure, and the "let’s get another round" energy you need this Valentine’s Day. So if you're looking for a night of flirtation, libations, and maybe even a little temptation, I’ve got you covered. And of course, I’m giving you the deets on you exactly what to drink—because nothing says “let’s make this night memorable” like the perfect cocktail in hand. Grab a glass of wine, and let’s dive in…

1. DrinkWell – The Love Potion Laboratory
Instagram: @drinkwellaustin

If you and your date are cocktail snobs in the best way, DrinkWell is your ideal love potion HQ. DrinkWell is here to set the bar (literally) for mixology-driven romance. This cozy, award-winning neighborhood haunt is where cocktail nerds and hopeless romantics collide—the dim lighting, leather barstools, and cheeky drink names will have you locking eyes across the table in no time

Must-Have Drinks:

• Get Rich Quick Scheme – Because nothing says “power couple” like Garam Masala-infused bourbon, PX Sherry, Amaretto, and a whole egg to make it luxuriously silky. A cocktail as smooth as your best pickup line.
  Grassroots Effort – A flirtatious blend of Blanco Tequila, Pimm’s, fresh citrus, and a peppery ginger kick that says, "this date just got interesting."

2. Eberly – For the Main Character Energy Couple
Instagram: @eberlyatx

If your date is hot, intriguing, and just a little out of your league, Eberly is where you take them to seal the deal. Nestled inside a historic print shop, this space oozes romance with a side of artsy mystique. The grand dining room is stunning, the drinks are meticulously crafted, and the Cedar Tavern bar (literally imported from New York) is a *chef’s kiss* date spot.

Must-Have Drinks:

• Nitro Espresso Martini – Because nothing says "this night isn’t over yet" like a silky, nitrogen-infused espresso martini that’ll keep the sparks flying past midnight.

• Concrete Jungle – A tropical mix of tequila, Campari, Aperol, lemon, and pineapple syrup that’s as vibrant as your quick witted and sexually charged banter.

Valentine’s Special: Expect a luxe prix-fixe menu—because nothing says “I’m really into you” like a meticulously curated multi-course meal.

3. Aba – Mediterranean Magic for the Hopeless Romantic
Instagram: @aba_restaurant

If you want to impress without trying to impress, Aba is your wingman/woman. With lush greenery, twinkling string lights, and a menu that screams "let’s just order one of everything," this Mediterranean dream spot has all the makings of a magical, let’s-stay-a-little-longer kind of date.

Must-Have Drinks:

• Lavender G&T – A floral and aromatic take on the classic gin and tonic, featuring Still Austin Gin, violet liqueur, and lavender. It’s giving Regency-era romance, but make it boozy.

• Aloe? It’s Me – Mezcal, aloe, green juice, and jalapeño for the perfect smooth-meets-smoky-meets-spicy flavor combo. 

Valentine’s Special: A Valentine’s (OR Galentines) Dinner for Two To-Go. Because nothing says "I adore you" like letting someone eat falafel in their pajamas. Reserve Here

4. Ember Kitchen – Love at First Bite (and Sip)
Instagram: @emberatx

If you want something bold, adventurous, and just a little bit sexy, Ember Kitchen is where you make your move. This date is going to get hot—literally. Ember Kitchen is all about fire-kissed Latin flavors, a stunning open kitchen, and cocktails that hit harder than that second round of tequila shots you probably shouldn’t have ordered.

Must-Have Drinks:

• Golden Hour Spritz – Pisco, passionfruit, papaya, and lemon, because this is the drink version of a golden-hour selfie that gets all the likes.

• Clean Slate – Mezcal, elote liqueur, avocado, and aloe—a creamy, smoky, why-is-this-so-good kind of cocktail that pairs perfectly with your date’s charm.

5. Justine’s Brasserie – A French Kiss in the Heart of Texas
Instagram: @justinesbrasserie

It’s giving “Meet me in Paris but make it Texas.” Justine’s is effortlessly sexy with its candlelit tables, sultry jazz playlist, and a menu straight out of a steamy French romance novel. The vibe is dark, intimate, and a little mysterious—which means it’s the perfect place to fall in love (or at least flirt like you are).

Must-Have Drinks:

• L’Oiseau de Feu – Mezcal, grapefruit, Tabasco, and cinnamon, because this drink is fiery, just like your chemistry.

• French 75 – Gin, lemon, and sparkling wine because nothing says “I’m here to impress” like ordering a drink straight out of a 1920s love affair.

So, pick your place, raise a glass, and remember: The real magic of the night isn’t in the reservation, it’s in the company. And if you find yourself still searching for that special someone to toast to this Valentine’s Day, we’ve got your back. Download FROM, use code “DATING” for a free month of our highest-level subscription, Terracotta, and let’s turn those maybe’s into let’s-do-this. Until next time, lovebirds (and soon-to-be lovebirds) x