The Easter Bunny is coming, and he’s bringing plenty of wonderful treats for your special holiday meal. Here are a few choices that await you, in various price ranges.

Prices do not include tax and tip. Reservations are required.

Achiote at the Grand Hyatt, 600 E. Market St., (210) 451-6171 — The Easter buffet is from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Features include a sushi station and a salad station plus the following chef-carved meats: Slow Smoked Prime Rib and Bone-In Ham. Entrees include Chicken Habanero Cassoulet, Roasted Loin of Pork with Ancho Ginger Glaze, Tomatillo Hominy Pozole Verde, Pan Seared Salmon with Cactus Tequila Ginger Butter Sauce, Valencia Seafood Paella, Tri-Color Potato Medley, Baby Seasonal Vegetables and Sesame Asparagus. A custom egg station, an array of traditional breads and desserts round out the meal. Cost is $42 for adults and $21 for children ages 4-12.

Biga on the Banks, 203 S. St. Mary’s St., (210) 225-0722 —Easter brunch hours will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m.The buffet will include appetizers, salads and desserts, while one entree is chosen from the menu. Entree options include: Maine Lobster omelet, poblano rajas, caramelized onion stuffed “Biga” potato, asparagus, avocado, guajillo salsa; Organic Egg Benedict, dill muffin, baby greens, Country bacon, red Hollandaise; Sautéed East Coast flounder, heirloom tomatoes and fennel, sherry brown butter; Roasted ribeye of beef, baked potato gnocchi, broccolini, black pepper beef sauce; Duck confit and mushroom risotto, Frisee, truffled duck jus; Zucchini burger, Fennel seed bun, heirloom tomato, lettuce, grilled onion, basil aioli and root vegetable chips. The selection of desserts: Carrot cake, cream cheese icing and candied carrots; Fresh blueberry baby tarts; Eclairs, Tiramisu, Texmati rice pudding; Torta Divina; and Sparkling strawberry fruit soup. There will also be kids desserts. The prices are $54 for adults and $27.50 for children under 12.

Bin 555,555 W. Bitters Road, (210) 496-0555 — The Easter brunch hours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Begin with an apertif Cava Rose and Blood Orange Mimosa ($10). The four-course special begins with choice of appetizer: Mixed Field Greens with Candied Pecans, Texas Goat Cheese and Champagne Vinaigrette; Lobster Bisque with Chives and Smoked Butternut Squash; Sous Vide Farm Egg with Spring Vegetable Ragout and ecorino Romano “Frico”; and Buttermilk Biscuits with Shaved Serrano Ham and Strawberry Jam. Entree choices: Duck Confit with Thai Red Curry, Coconut Foam, “Cracklins” and Basil; Heirloom Tomato, Avocado and Steamed Eggs with Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Black Pepper; Seared Salmon with Cauliflower Cous Cous, Orange-Carrot Puree, Miso and Charred Cumin; and Sous Vide of Beef Tenderloin Petite Filet with Caramalized Onion Puree, Blue Cheese Spoonbread, Roasted Leeks and Buerre Rouge ($5 Additional Supplement for Filet). After a cheese plate served family style, choose from Nutella and Dark Chocolate “Soufflé” Cake with Hazelnut, Raspberry and Smoked Pistachio; Strawberries with Mascarpone, Basil and Black Pepper; or Passion Fruit “Cheesecake” with Candied Lemon, “Blondies”, Blueberry and Pink Peppercorn. Cost is $29.95 a person or $11 for the children’s menu. An 18 percent tip will be added to all checks.

The Bright Shawl, 819 Augusta St., (210) 225-6366 — Easter Brunch will be from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The meal will include: Breakfast Buffet with Omelets-to-Order Station, Waffle Station with Maple Syrup, Strawberry Compote and Chantilly Cream. Traditional Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise, Smoked Bacon and Maple Sausage, Home-baked Biscuits and Gravy, Assorted Breakfast Pastries, Breads, Butter and Preserves. Spring Favorites: Trimmings for a Classic Caesar Salad and Bright Shawl House Salad. Chef’s Carving Table: Slow-Roasted Pineapple Glazed Ham. Entrée Favorites: Fried Southern Style Chicken, Lemon-Pepper Fish, Yellow Fluffy Rice, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Gravy, Steamed Broccoli Spears. Grand Dessert Buffet features Cakes, Tarts, and Petit Fours plus Fresh Easter Bunny Cookies and Brownies. Prices are $19.95 for adults, $12.95 for children ages 6-12, and $14.95 for senior citizens. Coffee and tea are included in the buffet price.

Crumpets, 3920 Harry Wurzbach Road, (210) 821-5600 — Easter hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Menu specials include Breast of Chicken with Champagne Sauce ($29.50), Fresh Salmon Filet with Lemon-Butter and Capers ($36.50), Shrimp Lyonnaise with Wild Rice Blend ($36.50) , Tenderloin of Beef Savoy ($36.50), and Veal Scalloppini with Mushroom and Cognac Sauce ($36.50). The following is served with appetizer, cup of soup and house salad, fresh vegetables and dessert: Trilogy of Lobster Tail with Lemon Butter, Rack of Lamb Provençal and Tenderloin of Beef with Rossini Sauce ($49.50). Children’s menu available.

Frederick’s Restaurant, 7701 Broadway, (210) 828-9050; Frederick’s Bistro,  14439 N.W. Military Highway, (210) 888-1500 — Call for hours. Soups include Beef Barley & Vegetables ($6) and Cold Cucumber, Smoked Salmon & Dill ($7). Appetizers include Assorted Pate Plate ($8), Shrimp Cocktail & Jumbo Crab Meat & Cocktail Sauce ($11), Baked Oysters Casino ($9), Baked Brie & Goat Cheese in Puff Pastry ($9), Spring Rolls served in a Lettuce cup with Fresh Mint & Cilantro ($10), Crab Cake served with Mixed Greens & Tartar Sauce ($11); and Frivolites Of Smoked Smoke Salmon & Salmon Roe ($10). Salads: Roquefort & Walnut Salad ($8), Caesar Salad, ($8), Tomato & Cucumber Salad ($9), Frederick’s Salad with Mixed Green, Fresh Corn, Black Beans & Artichoke Heart ($9). Main courses: Lobster & Lump Crabmeat with Asparagus & Grand Marnier Dressing ($35), Parmesan Crusted Rainbow Trout with Avocado Relish ($18), Fresh Baked Norwegian Salmon Dijonnaise ($19), Grilled Lamb Chops with Garlic & Fresh Thyme Sauce ($21), Beef Filet Mignon with Jumbo Shrimp & Béarnaise Sauce ($31), Grilled Chicken Breast with Sun-dried Tomato & Artichoke Hearts ($17), Eggs Norfolk w/ Smoked Salmon & Crabmeat ($18), and Shrimp with Tomato & Garlic Sauce ($18). The children’s menu: Chicken Breast with Fries ($13) and Grilled Salmon and Fries ($14).

The Grill at Leon Springs, 24116 I-1o W., (210) 698-8797 — The Easter brunch buffet will include 18 assorted salads, waffle station, omelet station, meat-carving station and three main courses. The price is $25.95 for adults or $32.95 with mimosas added; or $11.95 for kids under 12.

Hilton Palacio del Rio, 200 S. Alamo St., (210) 224-3357 — There will be three seatings for the annual Easter brunch and petting zoo: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. There will be a brunch buffet and Champagne as well as Easter baskets for each table, an appearance by the Easter Bunny, a live piano player and complimentary valet parking. The petting zoo will include rabbits, chickens, sheep, a miniature goat and a potbelly pig. Cost is $34.95 for adults, $30.95 for seniors and $16.95 for children 6-10.

Hyatt Hill Country Resort, 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive, (210) 1234 — Easter brunch hours are 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For breakfast lovers, there will be pancakes, muffins and croissants, eggs benedict with shaved ham, an omelet bar to include a selection of seasonal ingredients. At the artisan bread, cheese & fruit kiosk: freshly baked rustic hearth breads, tapenade and bread dips, handcrafted cheeses with dried fruit and nuts, and seasonal fruit offerings. Salads and seafood options include local and seasonally inspired salads, hand-shucked oysters, chilled shrimp, smoked gulf mussels, oak-smoked salmon, rémoulade, jalapeño mignonette and plum tomato cocktail sauce, and smoked salmon with bagels, chopped egg, red onion, capers and cream cheeses. The carving station will have slow-roasted beef steamship au jus, sea salt enhancements and creamy horseradish, maple-glazed ham and cumin-crusted turkey. Entrées and sides: Pan-roasted “catch of the day” with three bean stew and poblano tomatillo sauce, mesquite charred chicken with sweet pepper marmalade, griddled new potatoes with fresh herbs, pecan smoked sausage, spring vegetables as well as a chef-attended pasta bar. Desserts: chocolate brownie cobbler, mousses, ice cream sundae bar, cakes, pies, tortes and pastries, and crème brûlée. Prices: Adults – $49.95; Seniors – $39.95; Children – $23; and children under four. There will be a children’s buffet.

Las Canarias at La Mansion del Rio, 112 College St., (210) 518-1063 – There are extended hours for the Champagne Brunch: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost for the brunch is $69.95 per person and $34.95 for children ages 6-12 years. The regular à la carte dining at Las Canarias will resume at 5:30 p.m.

The Lion and Rose, various locations — The brunch will include such options as Eggs Benedict, Irish Hash and Eggs, Wimbledon French Toast, a Breakfast Burger and more. The Westlakes location will feature bagpipe players at 1 p.m.

Luce Ristorante e Enoteca, 11255 Huebner Road, (210) 561-9700 — Easter lunch will be from noon to 4 p.m. The three-course special includes choice of Zuppa di Aragosta (Lobster Bisque), Caesar Salad or Caprese with tomato slices and fresh mozzarella to start. Second course choices: Agnello Scottadito (Parsley and Garlic Brined Australian Lamb Chops) or Pesce alla Luce (Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass, Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto) Dessert: Spumoni, Crème Brûlée or Chocolate Lava Torta with Vanilla Gelato. Cost: $29.95. An a la carte menu also available.

Lüke, 125 E. Houston St., (210) 227-5853:  Easter hours are 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Celebrate with our Sunday jazz brunch from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Brunch menu specialties include fried shoulder pork chop on biscuit, pork grillades, a crabmeat and avocado omelet and fried Texas quail and waffles. Visit lukesanantonio.com for more information.

Max’s Wine Dive, 340 East Basse Rd., Suite 101, 210-444-9547: All Easter weekend: Giant Pecan Praline Cinnamon Rolls,$6; Classic Style House Mustard and Chive Deviled Eggs, $4; Asparagus, Pancetta, and Cheddar Quiche,$9; Guajillo-Rubbed Grilled Ham Steak with two Fried Farm Eggs, Caramelized Pineapple Relish, Maple Lacquered Yams, $19.

Mike’s in the Village, 2355-3 Bulverde Road, Bulverde, (830) 438-2747 — Easter brunch is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with an omelet station offering everything from bacon to crawfish etouffée for your eggs. Buffet items and carved-to-order items include prime rib, broiled salmon, French toast and gumbo. Sides include roasted new potatoes, grilled asparagus, assorted fruit and a salad bar. Desserts: Bread pudding with cinnamon rum sauce and strawberry shortcake with black pepper-Balsamic syrup. The cost is $39.95 for adults or $15 for children under 10.

Morton’s the Steakhouse, 849 E. Commerce St., (210) 228-0700 — The Easter dinner special is a three-course meal consisting of a choice of Lobster Bisque, Ahi Tuna Tower, Jumbo Shrimp Alexander, Caesar Salad, Morton’s Salad or Chopped Spinach Salad, followed by a choice of 6-ounce Center-Cut Filet Mignon served with Steamed Asparagus Spears; Honey-Chili Glazed Salmon Fillet with Vegetable Relish; or Chicken Bianco with Artichokes, Capers & White Wine Sauce. Dessert choices: Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee, Double Chocolate Mousse or Individual Souffle. Cost: $59 a person.

Myron’s Prime Steakhouse, 10003 N.W. Military Hwy., (210) 493-3031 — Holiday hours begin at 11 a.m. and continue into the evening. The regular menu will be offered. Seating is limited.

Oro at the Emily Morgan, 705 E. Houston St., (210) 225-5100 — Easter brunch will be served 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The brunch buffet includes omelets made to order,Texas Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes, Spiced Maple Syrup, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Sausages, Home Style Potatoes with Garlic Sea Salt, Fresno Pepper and Aged Cheddar Biscuits and Cracked Pepper Gravy. Chilled items: Seasonal Fruit and Berries, Mixed Lettuces with Roasted Tomatoes and Local Goat Cheese, Blanched Asparagus with Shaved Parmesan, Bacon Aioli,  Grilled Baby Portabello, Spring Tomato and Aged Balsamic. Warm items: Truffled Garlic Yukon Gold Potato Puree, Garden Asparagus and Wild Mushrooms with Pickled Onions, Sautéed Texas Squash and Zucchini with Roasted Tomato, Dried Cranberry and Apricot Studded Wild Rice. Main items: Achiote Honey Rubbed Pit-Style Ham with a Cinnamon Walnut Sauce, Hickory Smoked Prime Rib with Natural Jus and Horseradish Crema, Herb Seared Scottish Salmon with a Gorgonzola Cilantro Cream, and Coriander Mustard Smeared Pork Loin With A Grilled Apple and Garlic Veal Sauce. Sweets: Pumpkin Pie, Assorted Cookies and Blondies, Lemon Ice Box Cake and Strawberry Shortcake. Complimentary valet parking. Prices:  $39.95 for adults, $19.95 for children.

Ostra at the Mokara, 212 W. Crockett St., (210) 396-5817 – The regular à la carte menu will be available during breakfast and lunch hours, with featured Easter Sunday specials during dinner service beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Q on the Riverwalk, 123 Losoya St., 210-362-6325: Easter Brunch, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Adults: $42 per person; Children: ages 0-3 Free; ages 4-12 $21 pp. Menu: Antipasto and cheese display of domestic and international cheese; cured meats and grilled vegetables. Salad bar: Hearts of Romaine, Baby Spinach, mesclun greens, house blend, tomato, bacon bits, hearts of palm, croutons, Parmesan cheese, green onions with House dressing, ranch or bleu cheese dressing. Also, Cucumber Salad; Red Onion and Heirloom Tomato Salad with Cilantro Vinaigrette; Roasted Fennel, Red Peppers, and Texas Orange Segments; Grilled Artichokes, Roasted Red Pepper, and Tomato Salad Topped with Feta Cheese. Roasted and Hand-Carved Meats: Roasted Leg of Lamb with Rosemary, Sweet Lemon Preserves, and Mint Tzatziki; Texan Wild Boar Ham with Whole Grain Mustard, Cherry and Pineapple Marmalade. Entrees: Ancho Chili Mustard Crusted Red Fish with Tomatillo Salsa; Corn Bread Muffins Topped with Chorizo and Eggs and a Chipotle Hollandaise Sauce; Pancakes with Blackberry Raspberry Compote and Bourbon Orange Compote. Custom omelet stations and fresh egg dishes. Traditional Holiday Sides: Bacon and Sausage; Three Cheese Mac n’ Cheese; Breakfast Potatoes. Traditional Bread Table: Blueberry Muffins, Banana Nut Muffins, Muesli Bread, French Baguettes, Croissants, Ciabatta. Dessert buffet: Mini Cookies, Napoleons, Mini Mousse Shooters, Coconut Mini Flan, Crème Brulee, Pot De Crème, Opera Cake, Pear Tart, Fruit Tart, Mini Cheesecake, Mini Strudel’s & Macaroons. www.qriverwalk.com

Roaring Fork, 1806 N. Loop 1604 W., (210) 479-9700 — The Easter Brunch from executive chef Matt Inouye will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The specialty a la carte menu features a selection of breakfast items, signature side dishes, hearty entrees and tasty desserts. Menu items include: Chicken and Waffles; Pancakes in Pulled Pork; Fresh Baked Warm Cinnamon Rolls; Breakfast Flatbread with Fried Eggs, Elgin Sausage and Bacon; Cast Iron Skillet of Green Chile Pork with Oven Roasted Sunny Side Up Eggs; Chicken Enchiladas and Eggs with Black Beans; Carnitas Benedict with Poached Eggs, cornbread and Chipotle Hollandaise; Elgin Sausage Migas with White Cheddar and warm buttered tortillas; and the  full menu and regular brunch menu. Mimosas and Bloody Mary cocktails will be priced at $5.00 each. Cost for the brunch is $29 per person.  www.roaringfork.com

Tre Trattoria, 4003 Broadway, (210) 805-0333 — Easter hours for the four-course brunch are 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Start with a Pomegranate, Pineapple Juice, Vodka Martini Topped with Ruffino Prosecco ($10). The meal begins with a choice of Slow Roasted Caprese; Simple Mixed Field Salad with Shaved Fennel, Cherry Tomato and Red Wine Vinaigrette; Yukon Gold Potato Bisque with Smoked Paprika Crema and Basil; or Toasted English Muffin with Italian Sausage, Organic Fried Egg and San Marzano Jam. Second Course choice: House Made Tagliatelli with Oyster Mushrooms and Thyme; Spinach and Bacon Frittata with Calabrese Salsa and Roasted Squash Escabeche; Crispy Skin Rainbow Trout with Brussel Sprout Hash and Salsa Verde; and Duck Confit Leg with Polenta Waffle Maple Agrodolce and Aruglula. After a Cheese plate served family style, enjoy your choice of Nutella X 3, Local Strawberry and Mint Parfait, or Olive Oil cake with House Made Apple Sauce. Cost is $37.95 for adults or $11 for the children’s menu. An 18 percent tip will be added to all checks.

Tre Trattoria at the Fairmount, 401 S. Alamo St.,  (210) 223-0401 — A four-course Easter brunch is 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Start with your choice of the following appetizers: Slow Roasted Caprese with Mozzarella and Basil; Mixed Field Greens with Shaved Fennel, Grape Tomatoes, Red Wine Vinaigrette; Yukon Gold Potato Bisque with Celery Heart and Parsley Salad; and Toasted English Muffin with House Made Italian Sausage, Fried Egg, San Marzano Jam. Entrée choices: Tagliatelle, Thyme and Wild Mushrooms; Nutella Stuffed French Toast with Caramelized Bananas, Nutella Chantilly; Grilled Tuscan Ribeye with Roasted Rosemary Potatoes, Charred Green Beans, Tarragon Butter ($12 beef supplement); Pan Roasted Salmon with, English Peas, House Made Ricotta Cheese, Pickled Mustard Seeds, Roasted Spring Onions; and Crispy Duck Confit, Polenta Waffles, Baby Arugula, Maple Agrodolce. After a cheese course (served family style, enjoy your choice of Nutella x 3 or Strawberry and Mint Parfait. The cost for the four-course meal is $39.95 a person. The regular menu will be served after 4 p.m.

Two Step Restaurant and Cantina, 9840 W. Loop 1604 N.,(210) 688-2686 — The Easter Bunny will put in an appearance during brunch. In addition to the regular menu, there will be a Scotch egg special for $6.95 on both Saturday and Easter Sunday.

Westin La Cantera, The Westin La Cantera Hill Country Resort, 16641 La Cantera Parkway, in the San Antonio Grand Ballroom 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  For reservations call 210-558-2439. The annual Grand Ballroom brunch this holiday features a variety of seasonal specialties and traditional fare. Our buffet features cuisines sure to please any palate, including carving stations, fresh seafood, local favorites and a chocolate fountain with decadent dessert display. Everyone in the family is sure to enjoy live music, children’s activities and more. Adults, $52 pp;  Child $25 (6-12), Senior $40. Children 5 and under are free.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill, 15900 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 25100, will open from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Easter Sunday. The Easter Bunny will have treats for children and pose for complimentary photos until 3p.m. Z’Tejas’ new brunch menu, which features a jalapeño bacon stuffed relleno served with scrambled eggs and a chorizo pork scramble skillet will be available from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. To receive a special 20 percent off discount for Easter dinner, follow Z’Tejas on Facebook at facebook.com/ZTejasLaCantera or on Twitter at @ZTejas. For reservations, call 210-690-3334.

John Griffin contributed to this report.

Restaurateurs, if you want to be included in our lists, email walker@savorsa.com or griffin@savorsa.com.

Zach Lutton of Zedric's makes his paella, which won second place in the challenge.

Ty-Lor Boring uses his burner to cook lobster.

Saturday did not end on a pretty note, in terms of weather. Cold, miserable rain left the ground saturated and spirits low. Luminaria had to be postponed, and hopes were not high for the third annual Paella Challenge at the Pearl Brewery.

"Top Chef" favorite Lindsay Autry

Yet on Sunday morning, the clouds fled the scene, leaving a healing sun in its wake that dried out the amphitheater and made for a perfect afternoon that drew hundreds of people who wanted to sample paella made by many of the city’s best chefs as well as several out-of-town visitors, including several chefs from the recent “Top Chef” Texas season.

Credit for the success of the event goes to organizer Johnny Hernandez, said David Kellaway, managing director of the Culinary Institute of America’s San Antonio campus, which is also at the brewery.

The event is a fundraiser for the culinary school as well as the educational arm of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

“The energy and passion (Hernandez displays) towards educating our youth in the culinary arts cannot be quantified,” Kellaway said.

The student team from Lanier placed second in the new high school challenge.

Hernandez, who owns La Gloria Ice House and True Flavors Catering, had wanted the lot power washed before the event, and it seems as if God obliged, the school official joked.

The styles of paella varied greatly. Jason Dady and his crew presented a version blackened with squid ink yet brightened with fresh green herbs. The folks from Max’s Wine Dive offered a Texas paella with game meats and a chipotle butter. Visiting chef Tim McCarty from Minnesota offered three P’s: pork, prawns and popcorn, with ribs and pork belly in the mix.

Mustachioed chef  Ty-Lor Boring from “Top Chef” added a dramatic touch by firing his lobster directly in the flames of his burner. Last year’s champion, Jeff Balfour of Citrus at the Hotel Valencia, offered a paella that featured chicken and arrived topped with egg, which was meant to leave you wondering which came first.

Winning chef James Canter celebrates with his son.

In the end only three of more than two dozen entries would be honored. They were, in order, James Canter of Alhambra in McAllen; Zach Lutton of Zedric’s: Healthy Gourmet to Go, 9873 I-1o W.; and Peter Holt of Lupe Tortilla, which has a San Antonio location at 21103 U.S. 281 N.

Canter arrived at the winner’s table with his son perched high on one shoulder, prompting Kellaway to remark that he had already been given the best award of all.

This year, for the first time, San Antonio high schools were eligible to complete in their own division. Six schools showed up, including Burbank, John Jay, Lanier, McCollum, Memorial and Roosevelt. There was a lot riding on a terrific paella from the students, because the winning team will receive a four-day, all-expenses-paid trip to the CIA’s main campus in Hyde Park.

The winners, in order, were John Jay, Lanier and Memorial.

McCarty, who works for Sodexo, participated last year and was certainly enjoying himself once more. “As long as I make a great paella, I’m already a winner,” he said, while spooning up plates and handing them to the crowds that waited in line.

It's paella for all, with many of the chefs, including Steven McHugh of Luke, making multiple trays.

You can treat your sweetheart to breakfast, lunch or dinner on Valentine's Day.

Valentine’s Day vies with Mother’s Day for being the biggest dining out day of the year. That means you need reservations, and the sooner you make them, the better. Otherwise, you may have to wait an hour or two with your loved one for the possibility of a table opening up.

Many places are offering specials over the weekend before Valentine’s Day, for those who want to celebrate a little earlier to avoid the crush.

Some prices listed below are per person, others are per couple. A few are listed per dish. Tax and tip are not included, unless otherwise indicated.

18 Oaks at JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa, 23808 Resort Parkway, 210-491-5841 — The special Valentine’s dinner menu includes a series of appetizer choices, such as oysters on the half shell ($16) or roasted beet salad with goat cheese ($14) as well as the following entrées: 8-ounce filet mignon ($38), 16-ounce rib-eye ($45), baked stuffed lobster ($50), Windy Bar Ranch short ribs ($36), seared Scottish salmon ($34) or olive oil-poached monkfish ($35).

Achiote at the Grand Hyatt, 600 E. Market St., 210-224-1234 — The Valentine’s menu is available Feb. 10-11 and 14.   The special consists of a Spicy Smoked Avocado Cucumber Shooter and Seared Ahi Tuna Skewer with Citrus Ponzu, followed by Infused Watermelon and Fried Goat Cheese Salad with Arugula, Frisée, Radicchio and Thai Basil Vinaigrette. The entrée is Angus Beef Filet and Gulf Red Fish with Shiitake Mushroom Ragu and Rock Lobster Papaya Salsa. Dessert is Chocolate Hazelnut Cake with Tahitian Vanilla Custard and a Dipped Strawberry. The cost is $50 a person and includes a glass of Champagne. www.achioterivercafe.com

Aldaco’s at Sunset Station, 100 E. Hoefgen St, 210-222-0561 — Live flamenco and Spanish guitar will be offered on Valentine’s Day at 7 and 9 p.m. The restaurant is also offering a five-course special: bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese, Ensalada de Patatas y Atun (Russian salad with seared tuna), Gambas con Chorizo y Pan de Tomate (shrimp sautéed with chorizo and garlic, tomato garlic toasts), Champinones y Puntitas de Solomillo al Ajillo (roasted mushrooms and beef tenderloin with garlic sauce) and Flan de Cafe (coffee flan with Grand Marnier cream and shaved chocolate). Cost is $55 a person.

Red and gold beet salad.

Antlers at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort, 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive, 210-647-1234 — The special Valentine’s menu begins with an amuse bouche of  roasted pepper, goat cheese and basil, followed by a choice of  open-faced petite lobster rolls, brioche and tarragon oil or chile-crusted antelope medallions, crispy shallots and orange oil. A golden and crimson beet salad with blood orange, fennel,feta and roasted hazelnuts is served before your choice of cider-glazed rack of lamb, basil and mint gelée, carrot parsnip purée, warm potato salad with wild boar bacon; grilled salmon, smoked pepper and lemon quinoa, spicy Napa cabbage slaw with cilantro dressing; Niman Ranch filet, pan-roasted morels, purple flowering kale, sweet potato matchsticks, consommé of veal and fresh herbs; or Chile black bean cakes, avocado salsa, cumin and lime yogurt sauce.  Dessert is dark chocolate custard, roasted balsamic strawberries and vanilla crisp. The cost is $68 a person.

Biga on the Banks, 203 S. St. Mary’s St., 210-225-0722 — The special Valentine’s menu begins with a choice of carrot soup with lemon, honey and cumin; shrimp croquettes with olives; or roasted asparagus salad with raspberries and brie. Second course is a choice of hot-smoked salmon with roasted broccolini and hazelnuts, purple mashers, tomatoes and dill or beef tenderloin with corn pudding, poblano chimichurri, and guajillo chile sauces. Dessert options include Strawberry Rhubarb Fruit Soup with strawberry sorbet, strawberry rosewater mousse, rhubarb chips and rose petals; Turtle Cheesecake with caramel sauce, toasted pecans and pecan lace tuille; Chocolate Amaretto and Raspberry Pavé, layers of chocolate cake soaked with amaretto, raspberry ganache, candied almonds and raspberry coulis; Orange Canolli, citrus cookie filled with orange cream, vanilla citrus salad and mint oil; and Coconut Dacquoise, coconut pastry cream, tropical fruits, passion fruit sorbet and pineapple chips. the cost of the special is $57 a person or $75 with paired wines. La Rosa’s Photography will be here to take Valentine pictures.

The Bright Shawl, 819 August St., 210-225-6366 — Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a special Valentine’s dinner, which include your choice of Wild Mushroom Bisque or Bright Shawl Signature Salad Greens with Sautéed Goat Cheese Dollars and Cranberries. Main course options are Stuffed Breast of Chicken with Wilted Spinach, Cream, Greek Feta Cheese, Garlic Confit and Lemon Butter Sauce ($26) or Angus Beef Steak Medallions á la Diane, Surf & Turf ($34). Dessert is a Fresh Berry Fruit Tarte or White Chocolate Chambord Napoleon. www.brightshawl.com

Cibolo Moon at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa, 23808 Resort Parkway, 210-491-5841 — The Valentine’s Day special is offered from 5 to 10 p.m. It begins with a choice of appetizer: foie gras with fig bacon jam and brioche or grilled jalapeño poppers wrapped in bacon and filled with cream cheese. Choice of entrée: redfish on the half shell with red chile butter and vegetable; filet and scallop with corn purée, jalapeño and smoked gnocchi; or the Blue Plate Special with seasonal vegetable. Dessert is a duo of dark chocolate Snickers torte and banana pudding.  The cost is $55 a person plus tax and tip. The full dinner menu will also be available.

Crumpets, 3920 Harry Wurzbach Road, 210-821-5600 — Dinner hours on Valentine’s Day are 5:30 to 10 p.m. All  entrées are served with appetizer, cup of soup or house salad, fresh vegetables and dessert. Main course options include Breast of Chicken with Montrachet Sauce ($35), Fresh Salmon Filet with Lemon-Butter and Capers ($35), Shrimp Lyonnaise with Wild Rice Blend ($45) , Tenderloin of Beef Savoy ($45), and Veal Scalloppini with Mushroom and Cognac Sauce ($45). The following is served with appetizer, cup of soup and house salad, fresh vegetables and dessert: Trilogy of Lobster Tail with Lemon Butter, Rack of Lamb Provençal and Tenderloin of Beef with Rossini Sauce ($55). Gourmet breakfast delivery, including a flower for Valentine’s Day, is available for $28.50 a person, plus tax and delivery fee.

EZ’s Brick Oven and Grill, various locations — EZ’s will be open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Feb. 14 and will offer two specials. The three-course dinner for two, starting with an organic spinach salad tossed with blueberries, artichoke hearts, toasted walnuts and house-made lemon ginger vinaigrette or a Caesar salad. It’s followed by an 11-inch Mediterranean pizza or calzone, featuring sweet Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, roasted peppers and more or another favorite pizza or calzone.  For dessert, choose between a Blue Bell ice cream hot fudge sundae or a Valentine’s Day Big Red Blue Bell float!  Two glasses of wine and a bottle of sparkling Pellegrino water are included for $25 per couple. Exchange the two glasses of wine for a full bottle for $32.  If you just want dessert, Be My Big Red features  Blue Bell Ice Cream and Big Red for $4.

Fig Tree Restaurant,515 Villita St., 210-225-2111 — A three-course Valentine’s special is available Feb. 10-14. It begins with a choice of Ahi Tuna au Poivre and Hearts of Palm with Uzu Dressing or Seared Diver Scallop with Truffle Nage and Braised Leeks. Main course is a choice of Braised Waygu Short Rib, Creamy Polenta, Fresh Oregon Truffles and Natural Jus or Lobster and Saffron Risotto, English Peas, Spanish Chorizo, Pequillo Peppers and Lobster Foam. Dessert is either Chocolate Pavé with Berry Sauce or Raspberry Frangipane Tart with Almond Anglaise. Each meal is served with a glass of Champagne. Cost is $75 a person. Regular menu is also available.

Filet mignon a popular choice for a romantic dinner.

Francesca’s at Sunset at the Westin La Cantera, 16641 La Cantera Parkway, 210-558-2253 — The Valentine’s special is a three-course dinner that begins with the following appetizer choices: sweet white asparagus vichyssoise with shaved black truffle, white truffle-mint oil, white asparagus; surf and turf ensalada with organic romaine lettuce, chilled-steamed black mussels, Texas orange vinegar drizzle and pecan dust; or Haute Caprese with Burrata cheese, heirloom tomato, hoja santa herb, Champagne vinegar, Hawaiian black sea salt and extra virgin olive oil.  Main course options: Grilled lamb T-bone with mint chimichurri, Peruvian potato croquettes, yellow wax beans; seared lemon fish with fresh roasted beet and spinach rounds, mini kiwi blocks and orange foam; filet mignon with wilted red Russian kale, heirloom carrot crisps, purple carrot-cauliflower purée; or Scallops Salteado with multi-colored fingerling potato salad, quinoa pilaf, mustard vinaigrette. Dessert is a choice of a   banana split or tiramisù. Cost is $65 a person. Holiday hotel packages are also available for those with more than food on their minds.

Frederick’s, 7701 Broadway, 210-828-9050;  Frederick’s Bistro, 14439 N.W. Military Hwy., 210-888-1500 — The special menu includes choice of Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops with Leeks Ragout and Caviar, Spring Rolls with Mint Cilantro and Lettuce, Stuffed Quail and Mousse of Foie Gras  Terrine Platter, Assorted Seafood Delicacy or Tuna Tartar with Citrus Vinaigrette. Second course is Frederick’s Salad and Champagne Hazelnut Oil Vinaigrette, followed by a choice of Glazed Duck Breast with Orange Ginger Sauce with Wild Rice, Beef Tenderloin with Jumbo Shrimp and Roquefort Fresh Herb Sauce, Sea Bass and Jumbo Lump Crab Meat Napoleon with Champagne Caviar Velouté, Fresh Maine Lobster and Crab Navarin served with Spring Vegetables on a Bed of Parppedele Pasta or Veal Strip Loin with Foie Gras with Mushroom Duxelle and Madeira Sauce. Dessert is a choice of Frozen Lemon Grass Parfait with Mango and Passion Fruit Purées, Chocolate and Raspberry Mousse Cake or Dark and White Chocolate Terrine. The dinner is priced at $90 per person.

Kirby’s Steakhouse, 123 N. Loop 1604 E., 210-404-2221 — The special Valentine’s menu begins with a  choice of one of the following: Maryland Style Crab Cake,  Grilled Herb Polenta with Sautéed Baby Spinach and Robiola Cheese, Peppered Lamb Lollipops with a Cognac Button Mushroom Sauce and Totten Bay Oysters on the Half Shell with a Cilantro Lime Mignonette. Course two options: Chopped Salad,  Classic Caesar Salad,  Salad Lyonnaise with a White Truffle Vinaigrette  or Lobster Bisque.  Main course options: 7- or 10-ounce Blue Ribbon Filet with a choice of sauces,  18-ounce Rosewood Smoked Rib-eye with Signature Rub,  16-ounce prime New York strip, Lobster Newburg, Australian Barramundi Oscar or  Braised Lamb Shank.  All entrées accompanied by Lobster Mashed Potatoes, Sautéed White Truffle Wild Mushrooms and Grilled Asparagus. Dessert is Belgian Dark Chocolate Nirvana Cake with Tahitian Vanilla Bean Strawberry Compote. Cost is $85 a person.

Las Canarias, Omni La Mansion del Rio, 112 College St., 210-518-1063 — Executive Chef John Brand has created a special three-course and five-course menu to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The three-course menu includes choice of Roasted Shiitake Mushroom Bisque or Blue Bonnet Farms Hot House Green Lettuces; entrée choice of Pan-Roasted Local Farm Raised Chicken Breast with Swiss Chard, Yukon Gold Potato Purée and Natural Jus or Creekstone Farm’s Braised Beef with Lamb’s Grist Mill Polenta, Baby Carrots and Veal Demi-Glace. Dessert is a Valrhona Chocolate Tasting with Guanaja Chocolate Cake, Equatorial Mousse, Caraibe Panna Cotta and Caramelia Gelato. The five-course menu includes Dungeness Crab and Jerusalem Artichoke Velouté with Sea Urchin Roe; Gundermann Acres Beets with Local Watercress and Chèvre; Lavender Honey-Lacquered Duck Breast and Hudson Valley Foie Gras with Torched Figs and Fiddlehead Ferns; Tasting of Wagyu Beef Prime Rib with Chanterelle Risotto and Sauce Perigourdine; and Valrhona Chocolate Tasting of Guanaja Chocolate Cake, Equatorial Mousse, Caraibe Panna Cotta and Caramelia Gelato. The menus are available Feb. 10-14. The three-course meal costs $125 a person, while the five-course costs $150 a person. The regular menu will also be available.  Las Canarias’ regular champagne brunch offering will be available on Feb. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost of the Champagne brunch is $39.95 a person.

Little Rhein Steak House, 231 S. Alamo St.,  210-225-2111 — The four-course Valentine’s special is available Feb. 10-14. Start with a choice of Shrimp and Crab Cocktail or Bacon Wrapped Quail Legs, followed by either a Caesar salad or Beefsteak Tomatoes with Blue Cheese Crumbles. Main course options are served with asparagus, sautéed wild mushrooms and au gratin potatoes plus your choice of the following: Prime Rib Eye, Filet Mignon, Grilled Salmon and Lobster Tail. Desserts include New York-style Cheesecake or Crème Brulee. Glass of Champagne is included. Cost is $68 a person. Regular menu is available.

Luce Ristorante e Enoteca, 12255 Huebner Road, 210-561-9700 — The restaurant is offering a three-course special beginning with a choice of  Zuppa di Aragosta (Lobster Bisque), Carpaccio Cipriani (Raw Thin Cut of Beef Tenderloin),  Baby Arugula Salad and Shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, Mustard Aioli, Caesar Salad, Insalata di Mare (Cold Salad, Shrimp, Calamari, Scungilli, Diver Scallops, Garlic, Celery, Extra Virgin Olive Oil) or Caprese (Tomato Slices and Fresh Mozzarella di Latte, Basil and Olive Oil). Main course options:  Filetto e Capesante (Grilled Filet Mignon and Diver Scallop, Toasted Garlic Vegetables and Basil Mashed Potatoes, Veal Reduction) or Pesce alla Luce (Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass, Shrimp and Asparagus Risotto, Toasted Garlic Vegetables). Dessert choices are Spumoni,  Crème Brûlée or Chocolate Lava Torta with Vanilla Gelato. The cost is $36.95 per person.

Lüke, 125 E. Houston St., 210-227-5853 — The restaurant will host a private dining event featuring a prix-fix four-course dinner with wine pairings on Feb. 14. Seating begins at 7 p.m. in Lüke’s upstairs private dining space. Menu highlights include pan-seared scallops with Allen Benton’s bacon and spiced pumpkin “love letters.” Dark chocolate torte with blood orange sorbet is dessert. Cost is $75 a person. Prepaid reservations required. The downstairs dining room is also accepting dinner reservations.  lukesanantonio.com

Max’s Wine Dive, 340 E. Basse Road, 210-444-9547 — The Valentine’s Couple’s Menu begins with the Chef’s Choice Amuse Bouche and a half glass of bubbles, followed by Baked Jalapeño and Oysters “Max-a-fellers.” Second course is a choice of Pan-seared Veal Chop with balsamic red onion confit, twice baked white cheddar new potatoes, and Crab and Asparagus Bavorois or Cracklin’ Chicken and Butternut Squash Risotto Dessert:  Pandora’s Chocolate Box of Love (filled with fresh berries and a white chocolate and port mousse). A take-away Valentine’s treat: chocolate and gold laden truffles. The cost is $75 a couple; wine pairings available at an additional $25 per person. The regular menu and items from the couple’s menu will also be available. www.maxswinedive.com

Mike’s in the Village, 2355-3 Bulverde Road, Bulverde, 830-438-2747 — Mike’s will be offering a Valentine’s special Feb. 10-14 (the regular menu will be available Feb. 10-11). The multi-course meal will include Lobster Bisque, followed by Shrimp and Grits with Jumbo Shrimp. Entree choices include Pan-seared Sea Bass over Warm Fresh Spinach, Wild Mushroom and Crabmeat Salad with Lemon Scented Creole Cardinal Sauce; Tender Filet Medallion over Feta and Green Onion Potato Cake, Haricot Vert and Wild Mushroom Marchand de Vin Sauce; Pecan and Herb Crusted Lamb Chops with Apple Mint Chutney with Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Haricot Vert. Dessert, served with a glass of Prosecco, is a choice of Chocolate Tort with Warm Chocolate Glaze, Raspberry Sauce and Fresh Raspberries; Molten Chocolate Lava Cake; or Strawberry Shortcake with Balsamic and Black Pepper Syrup. The cost is $60 a person.

Ostra at Mokara Hotel & Spa, 212 W. Crockett St., 210-396-5817 — Ostra’s regular a la carte menu is available during its normal hours throughout Valentine’s Day weekend. Additionally, on Valentine’s Day only, Ostra will feature specials during dinner service, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Paesanos 1604, 3622 Paesanos Parkway, 210-493-1604 — The Valentine’s dinner is served with your choice of a bottle of Solletico Prosecco, La Crema Chardonnay or La Crema Pinot Noir. It accompanies two entrées of Classic Shrimp Paesano with pasta and two house salads, plus bread, followed by Limoncello Cheesecake. The cost is $95 per couple plus tax and tip.

Paesanos Riverwalk, 111 W. Crockett St., 210-226-8490 — Valentine’s seatings are at 7 and 9 p.m.  Dinner begins with an optional appetizer sampler for two (for an $14.95 a person) of Parmesan Crusted Artichoke Hearts and Giant Calamari with Duet Of Sauces and Crab Cake Croquettes. The special begins with  House Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette, Olives, Tomatoes and Feta Cheese.   Entree choices include Shrimp Paesano with Lemon Butter and Garlic; a Grilled Ribeye Steak and a Herb Garlic Béarnaise Sauce; Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast with Linguini, Capers and Lemon Butter Sauce;  Grilled Ahi Tuna and a Basil Parmesan Vinaigrette; or Cheese Tortellini with Basil Pesto Cream and Pine Nuts.  Dessert is Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cake. The  children’s menu is a choice of Lasagna, Manicotti or Spaghetti with Butter or Tomato Sauce. Iced tea and soft drinks included.  The cost for the meal is  $51.95 a person plus tax and 20 percent tip; the cost for children ages 9 and under is $25.95 per child plus tax and 20 percent tip.

The Cupid Quesadilla at Paloma Blanca.

Paloma Blanca, 5800 Broadway, 210-822-6151 — The restaurant is offering the following specials Feb. 10-16: Sabor de Amor ($29.99), includes a 7-ounce filet mignon grilled “au” carbon and topped with chipotle butter; Cajita Corazón (19.99), a chicken breast filled with champiñones (mushrooms), corn and Oaxaca cheese, covered in a creamy poblano sauce and topped with melted cheese; and Quesadilla de Chocolate Cupido ($9.99), Chocolate Abuelita ice-cream sandwiched between two flat chocolate buñuelos drizzled in a Kahlua reduction.

Q on the Riverwalk at the Downtown Hyatt, 123 Losoya St., 210-222-1234, ext. 4240 — The Valentine’s menu will be available Feb. 10-11 and 14. It begins with an amuse-bouche of  Gulf Blue Crab Cake Paddlefish Caviar, followed by Hearts of Locally Grown Organic Romaine Lettuce with Heirloom Tomato, Aged Asiago Cheese and Moët-Blood Orange Vinaigrette. After an intermezzo of Passion Fruit Sorbet, dine on Chateaubriand with Fennel Bulbs, Swiss Chard, Baby Patti Pan Squash, Golden Beets and Chateau Potatoes with a choice of sauces. Dessert is Strawberry La Bomba, an explosion of strawberry and amaretto cream in an almond-flecked cake. The cost is $100 per couple and includes a glass of Champagne per person. www.qontheriverwalk.com

Romo’s Cafe, 7627 Culebra Road, 210-521-7666 — The four-course Feb. 14 special includes she crab bisque and foie gras garden, followed by a palette cleanser of tarragon sorbet and Champagne. For entrees, choose two of the following: beet and potato wrapped seabass with citrus beurre blanc; crab raviolo with crab aioli; handcut Texas rib-eye with red wine redux; lamb with a green peppercorn demi; and pheasant with herb l’orange. Choose your sides: potatoes gratin, haricot vert, spinach saute or herb roasted potatoes. Dessert is a trio of raspberry devil’s chocolate cake, cheesecake with honey and figs, and RoMo’s chocolate bar. Cost is $80 per couple.  A wine pairing including two special blends from the Boerne Wine Company is available for an additional $35 per couple. Book your reservation before Feb. 8 and receive a special gift (chocolate-dipped strawberries) and a rose for your date. On Feb. 11, the restaurant will celebrate Singles Awareness Day with a special menu for those Anti-Valentines.

Texas de Brazil, 313 E. Houston St., 210-299-1600 — The restaurant is offering special Valentine’s Day cocktails and a decadent chocolate dessert in addition to the regular offerings. Drink specials, priced from $7 to $9, include the Brazilian Rose, the Brazilian Kiss, the Raspberry Cream Dream and the decadent Milky Way Martini. The special dessert is a Triple Layer Chocolate Mousse Cake just right for sharing.

Tost Bistro and Bar, 14415 Blanco Road, 210-408-2670 — The Valentine’s Day special includes a multi-course meal that begins with a seared scallop on top of crispy roasted red beet risotto cake with spicy chimichurri, followed by Tost Bibb Salad with lardons, shaved carrots, cherry tomatoes with creamy buttermilk chive dressing or Butternut Squash Bisque. Main course choices are a pan-seared filet topped with truffle hollandaise with roasted wild mushrooms, grilled asparagus and creamy Yukon gold mash potatoes or crab-stuffed red snapper with roasted fingerling potatoes, spinach and a Champagne thyme beurre blanc. End with a choice of white chocolate mousse with fresh berries or house-made sorbet. The cost is $58.00 a person.

Two Step Restaurant and Cantina, 9840 W. Loop 1604 N., 210-688-2686 — The special Valentine’s Day menu includes a shared entrée, with your choice of 12-ounce Prime Rib Slow Smoked for 10 hours or 10-ounce Blackened Beef Tenderloin with Poblano Pesto Cream Sauce. Either choice is served with six Hot Buttered Shrimp with Tabasco Lemon Sauce and Horseradish Mashed Potatoes. Dessert is El Rey Chocolate Silk Custard. Two glasses of wine, your choice of Robert Mondavi Private Selection Chardonnay or Cabernet, included. Price is $50 per couple. twosteprestaurant.com

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill, 15900 La Cantera Parkway, 210-690-3334 — Z’Tejas will offer a three-course Valentine’s Day menu Feb. 11–14. The menu features a Baja shrimp martini to start, followed by a choice of ancho grilled pork tenderloin, peppercorn-crusted filet, pan-seared sea scallops or pepita-crusted chicken. A white chocolate mousse with raspberries and PAMA pomegranate syrup will be available for dessert. Accompany the meal with Valentine’s Day cocktails featuring PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur. Menu items are priced individually.

Restaurateurs, if you would like to add your Valentine’s information, email griffin@savorsa.com or walker@savorsa.com.

A traditional Thanksgiving dinner can be yours at many area restaurants.

Thanksgiving is approaching and there are numerous options if you want to dine out. Reservations are required at all places, unless otherwise marked. Tax and tip are not included  in the prices.

Achiote at the Grand Hyatt, 600 E. Market St., (210) 224-1234 — The buffet will be from noon to 9 p.m. Highlights include a salad station with organic mixed greens, Waldorf salad, tortilla slaw, shrimp pasta salad and fruit salad; a main area with  roasted tom turkey, Virginia bone-in ham, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, candied yams, corn and roasted poblano stuffing, giblet gravy, greens beans, miso-glazed salmon, cauliflower au gratin and roasted carrot kabocha soup with  horseradish yogurt, peach-apple chutney, cranberry-orange relish and whole grain mustard; and assorted desserts.  Cost is $30 a person, plus tax and 18 percent tip.

Antlers at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort & Spa; 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive (210) 647-1234 — Family style Thanksgiving dinner is 3-9 p.m. First course: Caldo verde with chorizo, leek, potato and kale; Fall harvest salad with locally sourced greens, shaved apple and green pear, toasted almonds, Brazos Valley blue cheese, cranberry jalapeño vinaigrette. Second course: Smoked turkey and kettle gravy; Lavender honey glazed ham; Chorizo stuffing; Tequila-jalapeno and traditional cranberry sauce; Butter whipped potatoes; Scalloped sweet potatoes with homemade marshmallow crust; Creamy baked green beans with mushroom and fried onions; Fresh baked breads and butter. Third course: Individual dessert selections; choice of one: Caramelized pumpkin tart with white chocolate whipped cream; Roasted apple-cranberry cobbler; Bourbon chocolate pecan pie. Cost: adults, $51; seniors, $40; children 5-12 years, $20; children 4 and under, free.

Auden’s Kitchen,700 E. Sonterra Blvd., (210) 494-0070 — Thanksgiving dinner will be served 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The special includes a salad, the dessert buffet and choice of entrée.   Appetizers, served a la carte, include  sizzling mushrooms, meat and cheese plate, roasted garlic white bean dip, and steamed mussels and fries. Entrées include sage-roasted turkey, pork sausage and apple dressing, creamy green bean with crispy shallots, skin-on mashers, pan jus, cherry cranberry sauce;  ancho-rubbed roasted turkey, charred poblano and sweet potato au gratin, brussel sprouts with Spanish chorizo, ancho jus;  14-ounce rib-eye, horseradish mashers, rosemary grilled asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, Auden’s Kitchen zinfandel steak sauce;  and whole roasted trout with potato galette, sautéed Swiss chard (if available), pine nut brown butter, cured lemon.  The dessert table will include pumpkin éclairs, pecan pie bars, walnut brownies, snickerdoodles and chocolate chip cookies. Cost is $38.95 for adults or $18.95 for children. The kids menu includes a traditional turkey plate, fish and chips, a burger and fettucine with marinara sauce.

Biga on the Banks,203 S. St. Mary’s St., (210) 225-0722 — The special Thanksgiving meal is 11 a.m.-8 p.m. There will be a buffet of appetizers and salads, followed by your choice of seated entrée: herb-roasted free range turkey with sourdough sage and applewood-smoked bacon dressing;  free-range turkey mole poblano; garlic-rubbed prime rib of beef rib-eye; braised lamb with tomatoes, coconut and curry flavors;  organic Eggs Benedict; and several fish options. Children’s options include chicken or turkey pasta, a child’s turkey plate and a child’s beef plate. The dessert buffet includes Chocolate Pecan Tart, Butternut Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust, Sweet Potato Pie, Maple Vanilla Crème Brûlée, and Pumpkin Tartlette with Sweet Whip Cream. There is also a kids table with desserts, including dried fruit studded Rice Krispie treats, rocky road brownies and mini pumpkin cupcakes. Cost is $55 for adults, $27 for children ages 12 and under.

Boudro’s, 421 E Commerce St., (210) 224-8484 — The special dinner will be 11 a.m.1 p.m. The special menu includes a choice of butternut squash or green apple soup or spinach salad with pears, pickled red onions and almonds. Entree choices are Black Angus Rib-eye with chipotle bordelaise or achiote butter-basted turkey breast with savory dressing. Dessert options: Sweet potato pecan pie, pumpkin crème brûlée or a regular dessert off the menu. The cost is $38 for adults or $15 for a children’s turkey dinner. The regular dinner menu is also available.

Crumpets, 3920 Harry Wurzbach Road, (210) 821-5600 —The special Thanksgiving menu will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All adult entrées are served with appetizer, bread, house salad and dessert. Appetizer options include  Mousse Truffle Pâté, Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese, and Puff Pastry with White Wine Mushroom Sauce. Entrée options: Roasted Turkey and Baked Ham with stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy ($28.50); Tenderloin of Beef ($35.50) ; Veal Scaloppini ($33.50)  Fresh Rainbow Trout Amandine or Meunière ($28.50). Children under 10 can have a turkey and ham plate with salad or dessert for $12.

Earl Abel’s,1201 Austin Hwy., (210) 822-3358 — The restaurant will open at 6:30 a.m. with Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. No reservations accepted. Among the appetizers will be pumpkin soup and deviled eggs. Roasted turkey with handmade cornbread dressing, giblet gravy and cranberry relish; fried chicken with mashed potatoes; Thanksgiving pot roast; fried shrimp; and venison sausage with German potato salad and red cabbage will be among the specials served that day. Pies, of course, will be available, including pu mpkin, chocolate iced box, pecan and maple as well as strawberry shortcake and chocolate and butter crème cakes. A children’s menu is also available.

The Emily Morgan,  705 E. Houston St., (210) 225-5100 — The Thanksgiving buffet is 10 a.m.-3 p.m.  Omelet station with all the fixings; Assortment of dim sum and spring rolls, dipping sauces, ancho chile shrimp, jicama slaw, ceviche with avocado, mango, and fresno pepper, assortment of fruit and berries, selection of imported and domestic cheeses. Salads: Marinated wild mushroom, with pickled onion; seasonal field greens, marinated tomato and pecans; baby spinach. strawberries, spiked almonds; fresh mozzarella and local tomato, aged balsamic vinegar, caramelized sweet potato puree, green bean casserole with blackened breadcrumbs, roasted new potatoes with garlic oil, honey-glazed carrots with pink peppercorns. Main dishes: Braised turkey with smoked apple dressing; Shiner Bock braised beef pot roast with carrots and potatoes; Blackened catfish with braised collard greens. Desserts: Chef’s selection of pies, tortes, and cakes.  $39.95 per person; Kids 10 and under eat free.

Frederick’s Resaturant, 7701 Broadway, (210) 828-9050, and Frederick’s Bistro,14432 N.W. Military Hwy., (210) 888-1500 — Lunch and dinner will be served at both locations. Frederick’s traditional Thanksgiving turkey will home-style stuffing, fresh cranberries and seasonal vegetables will be available for $25 a person in addition to other specials (Black Angus beef tenderloin with Gulf shrimp, jumbo sea scallops, lamb with garlic red wine sauce) and regular menu items.

Hyatt Hill Country Resort & Spa in the Springhouse Café: 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive, (210) 520-4000 for parties of 12 or more — The Thanksgiving meal is from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Reservations are not required. Rustic Soup Station: Butternut squash soup, pozole with cilantro and diced onion; Salad Bar: A selection of local greens, dressings and salad accompaniments prepared to order, composed salads derived from the fall harvest; Seafood: Jumbo shrimp and cascabel chile cocktail sauce, smoked salmon with traditional garnish and mini bagels, Cheese kiosk and artisinal breads, locally made cheeses and crusty breads; the Butcher Block: Citrus coriander basted tom turkey with homemade gravy, maple glazed honey-baked ham spicy mustard, Roasted beef steamship with horseradish, Traditional cranberry sauce; Pasta: Bourbon Barbecue ribbon pasta with red onion and local sausage, brisket with egg noodles with smoked paprika sauce, sweet potato with marshmallow gratin, corn bread stuffing, mashed garlic potatoes, baked “fresh catch” with lime butter cream sauce, roasted acorn squash with sherry and chestnuts, haricot vert and pancetta; breakfast:waffles, pancakes with assorted toppings; omelet bar, bacon and country sausage, biscuits and gravy, pastry, tarts, traditional pies, Black Forest Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cake, Warm Fig Bread Pudding with Bourbon Hard Sauce, White hot chocolate. Cost for adults, $38.95; seniors, $28.95;  children ages 5-12, $19.50; and children 4 and under, free.

Butternut squash and other fall vegetables are many Thanksgiving menus.

JW Marriott, 23808 Resort Parkway, (210) 483-6622 — The Thanksgiving buffet is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The feast includes a Hill Country salad bar; cold seafood including shrimp and slipper lobster; carving stations with slow-roasted tom turkey, prime rib and bourbon-glazed boneless ham; side dishes of roasted carrots, asparagus and parsnips, cornbread stuffing, buttermilk whipped potatoes, country-style candied yams, green bean casserole. The extensive dessert lineup includes Spiced Pumpkin Pie, Spiced Mincemeat Pie, Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie, Cinnamon Crumb Apple Pie, Red Velvet Cake, Fuji Apple Cider Cake, Chocolate Hazelnut Cake, Almond Caramel Cream Cake, Sweet Potato Roasted Marshmallow Tart, Orange Cardamom Truffle Tart, Key Lime Curd, Milk Chocolate Fudge, Pecan Caramel Swirl Cheesecake, Myers Lemon Vanilla Cream Cake, pralines, truffles, chocolate candies, and almond and coconut macaroons. There is a kids buffet, too. Cost is $52.95 for adults, $45.95 for seniors, $25.95 for children, and free for children ages 3 and under.

Las Canarias, Omni La Mansión del Rio, 112 College St., (210) 518-1063 — The Thanksgiving buffet will be 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Highlights include omelets made to order, applewood-smoked Wisconsin bacon, country-style pork sausage, maple blueberry sausages, sweet potato waffle station, Eggs Benedict, quiche, Meyer lemon and beet cured salmon and smoked halibut, charcuterie, salads, colossal shrimp, lobster and crab claws, fresh shucked oysters, heirloom tomatoes with Sandy Oaks Texas Olive Oil, smoked prime rib, roasted suckling pig, Texas citrus and sage roasted turkey breast, grilled Texas sausages from Elgin, grilled shrimp with Spanish chorizo. Pastry choices include Bourbon Texas Pecan Pie, Brown Butter Pumpkin Cheesecake, Caramelized Pineapple Cheesecake, Valrhona Chocolate Mousse Cakes, Pumpkin Pie Mousse Verrines, Rum Raisin Bread Pudding with Vanilla Anglaise, Warm Toffee Puddings with Toffee Sauce and more. Cost is $68.95 for adults, $34.95 for children ages 6-12.

Las Ramblas, Hotel Contessa,  306 W. Market St., (210) 298-8040 — The Thanksgiving buffet will be 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Carving stations include slow applewood-smoked prime rib, roasted turkey with giblet gravy, salt-crusted striped bass and Valencian paella station. The main buffet will feature artisan cheese and fruit, roasted butternut squash bisque, roasted beet mélange, Waldorf salad, roasted chicken breast with spinach and sun-dried tomato ragout, honey-glazed spiral cut ham, baked orrechiette with brie fondue, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, spicy corn bread pudding, candied acorn squash, boiled shrimp, snow crab claws, oysters, crawfish, ceviche shooters, mussel salad, and whole poached and chilled salmon. Breakfast items include a waffle station and omelet station. A children’s buffet is also offered. Cost: adults, $38.95; children ages 7-16, $16.95; and children 6 nd under, free. Sangria and mimosas: $9.

The Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills, 1746 Lockhill Selma, 210-349-8466 — The restaurant is not open Thanksgiving Day, but chef Jason Dady is offering a Maine Lobster Thanksgiving Dinner Menu during Thanksgiving week, Nov. 22, 23 and 25, 26. Live Maine lobster will be the star of this four-course menu for $40. Reservations are required and may be made by phone or emailing  info@thelodgerestaurant.com.

Luby’s, various locations — The cafeteria is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a Thanksgiving special that’s available whether you want to dine in or take dinner to go. The cost is $10.99 per person.

Luce Ristorante e Enoteca, 11255 Huebner Road,  (210) 561-9700 — Thanksgiving dinner will be served 12:30-4 p.m. There will be a special three-course dinner, starting with a choice of Zuppa di Zucca (butternut squash soup)  or  Insalate Misto (salad with goat cheese truffle), followed by a main course of  Tacchino (slow-roasted tom turkey with pine nut stuffing, vegetables and cranberry sauce). Dessert is a choice of pumpkin pie  or vanilla ice cream with berries. The cost for the special is $23.95 for adults or $7.95 for children under 12. The entire menu will also be available. Complimentary mimosa for all adults.

Lüke on the River Walk, 125 E. Houston St., (210) 227-LUKE — Lüke has invited 50 servicemen and women stationed at Fort Sam Houston to take part in a traditional Thanksgiving meal with a New Orleans twist at 2 p.m., and the public can show up to support the troops by joining them in the meal. The cost is $45 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under. The meal includes a fall greens salad, followed by Pumpkin Soup with Crab Meat. Whole roasted turkey will be served over mirliton and shrimp dressing with Bourbon Pecan Pie for dessert.

Mike’s in the Village, 2355-3 Bulverde Road, Bulverde, (830) 438-2747— The restaurant will be serving turkey and all of the fixings from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thanksgiving Day.

Sweet Potato Pie is one of the many seasonal desserts you'll find.

Ostra at the Mokara Hotel & Spa, 212 W. Crockett St., (210) 396-5817 — Ostra will have its regular à la carte menu available all day. Featured specials will be available during dinner service after 5:30 p.m.

Q on the Riverwalk, 123 Losoya, Downtown Hyatt, (210) 222-1234 — The restaurant is having one buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and another from 5 to 10 p.m. The first will feature chimichurri-based Angus strip sirloin, pan-seared salmon, oak-smoked tom turkey, an antipasti display, salad bar and assorted desserts. The cost is $42.50 for adults, $12.50 for children ages 7-12 and free for children 6 and under. The evening meal will feature roast pork loin with apples and onions, smoked tom turkey, a salad bar, and dessert. Cost is $28 for adults, $12.50 for children ages 7-12 and free for children 6 and under.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 7720 Jones Maltsberger Road, (210) 821-5051 — The Thanksgiving menu will be served 2-8 p.m. The special includes a choice of starter, including the soup of the day, Steak House Salad or Caesar Salad; followed by an entrée of sizzling turkey and dressing with gravy and cranberry relish plus your choice of side dish. Dessert options: Warm Apple Crumb Tart, Chocolate Chunk Bread Pudding, ice cream or sorbet. The cost is $49 a person.

Texas de Brazil, 313 E. Houston St., (210) 229-1600 — Dinner on Thanksgiving begins at noon. In addition to the usual array of meats and sides, roast turkey and gravy, sweet potato casserole and cranberry sauce will be available. 

Westin La Cantera Resort, 16641 La Cantera Parkway, (210) 558-2439 —  In the Grand Ballroom, the buffet begins at 10:30 a.m. and will include Sweet Potato, Corn and Jalapeño Soup and harvest greens that can be dressed with smoked duck, spiced pecans, pear, celery and cider vinaigrette. Carving stations will have Sage, Rosemary and Thyme Roast Turkey, Garlic Studded Roast Beef and Honey-glazed Ham, all with  whipped potatoes, turkey gravy, sausage and cornbread stuffing. An American artisan cheese display, chilled Gulf shrimp, chicken breast,  autumn squash, Potato-encrusted Fresh Cod and a chef’s selection of pies including pumpkin, pecan, apple and cherry. Breakfast specialties include Cinnamon Belgian Waffles, made-to-order omelets, smoked  bacon and country sausage and more. There will also be a children’s buffet.  The cost is $42 for adults, $221 or children ages 6-12, and free for children under 6 with a paying adult. Activities include balloon artistry for the kids, live entertainment and ice skating for all ages.

Zocca at the Downtown Westin, 420 W. Market St., (210) 444-6070 — Thanksgiving lunch and dinner will include free-range, hickory-smoked turkey with chestnut dressing, cranberry-citrus relish, and maple-glazed carrots. The three-course sprecial ends with a sweet potato and pecan tartlet with cinnamon-infused cream and warm mulled cider. The cost is $32 for adults and $16 for children.

If your Thanksgiving dinner was not included, email the details to griffin@savorsa.com or walker@savorsa.com.

Max’s Wine Dive is having a one-year anniversary celebration this week, and there will be a treat — on the house — for visitors through Saturday.

Stop for dinner at Max’s and mention the anniversary special, and the chef will send out one of his pork and cotija-stuffed piquillo peppers, served with chipotle aioli and cilantro chimichurri, along with a half glass of prosecco.

“We want to spend our birthday celebrating with the people who made it possible,” said Jerry Lasco, founder of MAX’s parent company, Lasco Enterprises, LLC.

MAX’s opened its doors (and its Black Door retail wine sales concept) last year, serving gourmet comfort food and affordable wines. The atmosphere is laid back and Max’s is open for lunch, happy hour, dinner, Champagne brunch and late night noshing.

Max’s Wine Dive is at 340 East Basse Road #101. Call them at 210-444-9547.

Max's Wine Dive Truffled Ranch Dressing

This dressing has been served on special occasions at Max’s Wine Dive, 340 E. Basse Road, and it’s a great way to dress up your ranch dressing. Pour it on salads  or use it as a dip for crudités. Or indulge yourself: Grab a spoon and dig in.

It’s a perfect fit for Max’s, where fried chicken and Champagne go so well together.

For more information on Max’s Wine dive, call 210-444-9547 or click here.

Max’s Wine Dive Truffle Ranch Dressing

1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1/3 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried chives
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped black truffle shavings (see note)
2 teaspoons white truffle oil
2-3 dashes of Tabasco

Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, dill, parsley, basil, chives, oregano, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, truffle shavings, truffle oil and Tabasco in a bowl and mix well.

Note: If you can’t find truffle shavings, try a little extra truffle oil to taste.

Makes about 2 1/2 cups dressing.

Source: Max’s Wine Dive

A new restaurant, The Boiler House and Wine Garden, will open next year at the Pearl.

Connected to the landmark Pearl Brewery smokestack, The Boiler House will feature approximately 6,000 square feet of restaurant space along with an expansive outdoor patio.

Most of the original architectural elements will remain intact, and the original boilers will be incorporated into the design and construction of the bar and kitchen areas.  A mezzanine will feature private dining tables overlooking the bar and seating areas below.  The patio will have communal tables, a fire pit, and an area for live music performances.

The cuisine at The Boiler House will be based on Texas ranch-style grilling – with wild game, seafood, and fresh local ingredients.  There also will be a late-night menu featuring smaller plates. Items will range from grilled octopus, lamb meatballs, and pork spare ribs to a dry-aged New York Strip or 32-ounce Tomahawk Rib-eye.  These dishes will be paired with a wide variety of wines from around the world – all available by the glass.

The wines will also be available for take-home purchase through The Black Door, a “wine community” concept first introduced into San Antonio by The Boiler House’s sister restaurant, MAX’s Wine Dive in the Quarry Village.

Jerry Lasco is founder and CEO of Lasco Enterprises, which owns and operates MAX’s Wine Dive, The Black Door, and The Boiler House.

Pecan-crusted Fried Chicken at Citrus featured during Restaurant Week, 2010.

Sample some of San Antonio’s most exciting restaurant fare during Restaurant Week, which starts Saturday and runs through Aug. 27.  Sponsored by Culinaria, this delectable deal comes with specially priced menus of $15 for lunch and $35 for dinner.

Reservations are not required, but you are encouraged to do so if you wish. Make them directly with the restaurants of your choice. The Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills is getting a head start by offering its prix fixe meals already. Kirby’s Steakhouse, meanwhile, is extended its special through Sept. 3.

A few of the participating restaurants include Antlers Lodge, Auden’s Kitchen, Bin 555, Bolo’s Rotisserie Grill, the Esquire Tavern, the JW Marriott’s 18 Oaks and Cibolo Moon, Ruth’s Chris, Texas de Brazil, and Tost. Go to Culinaria’s website for the full list. Here are some of the specials you’ll be able to enjoy:

Fig Tree Restaurant, 515 Villita St.

The special menu begins with a Caprese salad of burrata, baby tomatoes and arugula or Gazpacho Andaluz prepared tableside. The main course is a choice of braised short rib with polenta and wild mushrooms or Wahoo Façon Provençal with eggplant caviar, tomatoes and Niçoise olives. Dessert is a choice of chocolate macaron with hazelnut gelato or Macedoine de Fruit Tropicaux. Call 210-224-1976 for reservations.

Kirby’s Steakhouse, 123 N. Loop 1604 E.

Restaurant Week special at Kirby’s will run Aug. 20-Sept. 3.

The menu opens with an optional additional course that can be had for $7 extra:  Grilled Maine Day Boat Scallops with Watercress & Charred Pineapple Green Chili Salsa. The special Restaurant Week menu begins with your choice of the following: Hudson Valley Duck Confit and Pan-seared Foie Gras with a Blackberry Veal Stock Reduction or  Maryland-style Crab Cake with Classic Sauce Beurre Blanc. Main course options include 5-ounce Peppered Center Cut Tenderloin with the Signature Cognac Pepper Sauce;  Australian Rack of Lamb with Shiitake Mushroom Veal Demi;  Hickory-smoked Berkshire Pork Chop with a Bacon Maple Hotel Butter;  Grilled Alaskan Halibut with Grilled Asparagus and an Artichoke Cream Sauce;  Filet Oscar with Asparagus and Classic Sauce Béarnaise.  All entrees served with Susie’s Famous Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Sautéed Vegetables. Dessert choices include Grand Marnier Crème Brûlée,  Kirby’s Chocolate Spice Cake and Key Lime Pie.  For reservations,  210-404-2221.

The Lodge Restaurant at Castle Hills, 1746 Lockhill Selma Road

The Lodge is already offering its Restaurant Week prix fixe dinner menu:

First course: Pan-seared Diver Scallop with Deconstructed ‘Bloody Mary’,  Celery Root Agnolotti, Charred Heirloom Tomato Coulis, Spring Radish, Preserved Lemon and Picholine Olives; Second course: Choice of Pan-roasted Duck Breast with Yuzu-Carrot Purée, Brussels Sprouts, Wild Mushroom, House-cured Guanciale and Smoked Peach-Bourbon Jus OR Forbidden Rice-crusted Hawaiian Wahoo with Yukon Mousseline, Ginger “Fried” Cauliflower and Coconut Broth. Third course: Choice of Nutella Torte with Housemade Caramel, Peanut Butter Mousse and Hazelnut Nougat or Key Lime Pie Tart with Vanilla Chantilly and Coconut Meringue. For reservations, call 210-349-8466.

Max’s Wine Dive, 340 E. Basse Road

The special lunch menu includes Cauliflower Velouté with fried cheese curd dipsticks; a choice of Pulled Crab Tamale with tomato marmalade and roasted sweet red pepper créme fraîche;  Fredericksburg Dog with pickled red cabbage, house-made German mustard and Max’s frites; or  Alamo City Prime Rib Sando with Max’s chips. Dessert is White Chocolate and Butterscotch Crème Brûlée. The dinner special includes Pulled Crab Tamale, followed by choice of Pumpkin Gnocchi with brown beurre meunier;  Chicken with Butternut Risotto; or Ahi Tuna ($7 upgrade) with ginger-scallion-shiitake rice cake and soy wasabi butter. Dessert is White Chocolate and Butterscotch Crème Brûlée. Call 210-444-9547.

The Shops at La Cantera, 15900 La Cantera Parkway

Participating restaurants in the Shops include Brio’s Tuscan Grille, Grimaldi’s, Kona Grill, The Yard House and Z Tejas Southwestern Grill. If you spend $100, you can redeem dining receipts at Customer Service in the mall management office to receive a $20 Shop Etc. gift card. One gift card per person and recipient must be 18 or older, ID required. Available through Aug. 27 while supplies last.  Reservations are preferred.

Pierre O. Kranzle, owner of Azuca Nuevo Latino in Southtown, will open up a Caribbean fusion restaurant in Helotes later this month. The restaurant, Calypso Rotisserie, will be just outside Loop 1604 at 12030 Bandera Road.

The menu will include items such as an all-natural rotisserie-style chicken, pork roast crusted with Latin spices, beef short ribs basted with a blend of Caribbean flavors, a hot-pressed Cuban Sandwich, burritos, pineapple coconut rice and a selection of local and Latin beers.

 

Max’s Wine Dive Teams up with Witte

This free cooking class, offered on June 25, is part of chef Michael Flores’s series of cooking demonstrations taught at La Taza Coffee House, 15060 San Pedro Ave. If you’re looking for recipes to serve on July 4th, this is the place to come.

Fig Tree Winemaker Dinner Features Craggy Range Founder, Steve Smith MW

The viticulturalist, founder and director of wine at Craggy Range, at Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, wears many hats, and puts out a spectacular product.

On June 30, at the Fig Tree Restaurant, Steve Smith, who also is a Master of Wine, will discuss the fine wines from the winery and guests will get to sample them paired with carefully matched cuisine at the River Walk restaurant.

The reception begins at 6:30 p.m., with dinner at 7 p.m. at the Dashiell House. The cost is $85 per person, plus tax and service charge. The restaurant is at 515 Villita St. Make reservations at 210-224-1976.

End your Father's Day dinner at Morton's with the Legendary Chocolate Cake.

Father’s Day is June 19 this year, which is just around the corner. Don’t make Dad grill in this sweltering heat. Take him out for brunch or dinner. Several of the restaurants featured below are offering gifts in addition to the meals.

Reservations are appreciated unless otherwise stated. Prices do not include tax or tip.

Auden’s Kitchen, 700 E. Sonterra Blvd., 210-494-0070 — Father’s Day brunch will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with dinner from 3 to 9 p.m. The regular menus will be offered along with the following specials: Venison Sausage Pizza with roasted red peppers, grilled fennel and more; and a Beer-marinated 16-ounce Bone-in New York Strip with Horseradish Mashers and Grilled Asparagus. The cocktail of the day will be Lynchburg Lemonade while the beer special is the Black & Tan.

Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood, 219 E. Houston St.,  (210) 472-2600 — On Father’s Day, Bohanan’s will feature its full menu, starting at 5 p.m. In addition, all dads will receive a package of golf balls. www.bohanans.com

Crumpets, 3920 Harry Wurzbach Road, 210-821-5600 — Chef Francois Maeder is giving Dad a brunch with live music and a host of options during brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Start with an appetizer, such as puff pastry with wine mushroom sauce, Scottish smoked salmon or mousse truffle pâté. Main course options include shrimp salad on avocado, eggs Benedict, chicken breast with Champagne sauce, veal scaloppini with mushroom cognac sauce, fresh rainbow trout amandine, or tenderloin of beef with green peppercorn sauce. The Trilogy, a combination featuring tenderloin of beef Rossini, lobster tail and rack of lamb Provençal, will also be available. All entrées are served with an appetizer, house salad, vegetables, breads, dessert, coffee or iced tea and wine or Champagne. A children’s menu is available for those under 10 years of age. Crumpets will also be open 5-9 p.m. that day for dinner.  www.crumpetsa.com

Earl Abel’s, 1201 Austin Hwy., 210-822-3358 — Two breakfast specials are offered on Father’s Day: Blueberry Pancakes (three thins or two buttermilk), one egg, hash browns, and two slices of bacon or two house-made sausage patties ($10) and an Orange or Cranberry Mimosa ($7). Lunch and dinner specials  include Fried Buffalo Wings, usually reserved for special events or private dining, will be an appetizer; Baby Back Ribs with Earl Abel’s own homemade barbecue sauce; and a Fisherman’s Platter with fried shrimp, fried catfish and homemade hush puppies.  Boston Crème and the Coconut Cream pie are among the special desserts of the day. The lunch and dinner specials will be available after the end of breakfast service, which is 11 a.m. The breakfast specials are available all day, 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, 255 E. Basse Road, 210-824-9463 — A three-course brunch special will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Father’s Day in addition to the regular menu. Dad will receive a $25 dining card for a future return visit to the restaurant.

Las Canarias, La Mansion del Rio, 112 College St., 210-518-1063 — On Father’s Day, Las Canarias will serve its Champagne Brunch from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Among the items on the buffet: Applewood-smoked Bacon, country breakfast sausage, chilaquiles, eggs Benedict, Canadian bacon, Vanilla Malt Pancakes and Waffles, chef-prepared omelets, European charcutiere, Ricotta Cheese Tortellini, Bluebonnet Heirloom Tomatoes, Grass-fed Beef Tartare, Green Melon Gazpacho, and Blackened Chicken Penne Pasta. Cost: $49.95 for adults and $24.95 for children ages 6-12. Regular dining will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The Lion and Rose, various locations — Father’s Day brunch is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Some of the favorites from the menu include eggs Benedict, Irish Hash and Eggs, the Breakfast Burger and Wimbledon French Toast. Drink specials include:  Mimosa, $3.49; Bloody Mary, $3; Irish Bulldog $5; Pimm’s Royal, $4.99; and Pimm’s Punch $4.99. thelionandrose.com

Lüke, 175 E. Houston St., 210-227-5853 — The restaurant is offering a three-course tasting menu for Father’s Day. It will be available during brunch and dinner. Each course is paired with a 5-ounce beer.  Appetizer choices are either Spicy Crawfish Pies and the Alamo Golden Ale or Potato Gnocchi with ham hock, local beans and mustard with Ranger Creek South Texas Lager. Entrée options are Potato-crusted Stuffed Soft Shell Crab over Pearl Market vegetables with Breckenridge Agave Wheat or South Texas Heritage Pork Shoulder Steak and frites with Ranger Creek La Bestia Amiable Strong Ale. Dessert is Rhew Orchards Peach Upside-down Cake with sour cream ice cream and Tripel Karmeliet Abbey Ale. Cost: $40.

Mariposa Restaurant, Nieman-Marcus in the Shops at La Cantera, 15900 La Cantera Pkwy., 210-694-3550 — Brunch will be served on Father’s Day from noon to 4 p.m. In addition to the regular menu, specials will include Ranchero Steak and Eggs ($20), Braised Short Ribs with grits and roasted chipotle sauce ($20) and Crab Cake Eggs Benedict with avocado ($20).

Texas de Brazil is ready to serve a host of meats for Father's Day.

Max’s Wine Dive, 340 East Basse Road, Suite 101, 210-444-9547 — Celebrate Father’s Day with the Ultimate Baconator (braised pork belly, applewood smoked bacon, white cheddar cheese, and garlic aioli with heirloom tomatoes and more sandwiched between grilled New World bakery sourdough bread for $15), Roasted Garlic-Studded Prime Rib with bone marrow au jus for $25 and Max’s Giant Smore for $9. Plenty of wine specials for Dad are also offered. maxswinedive.com

Morton’s the Steakhouse, 300 E. Crockett St., 210-228-0700 — The Father’s Day special begins with choice of a soup or salad: Baked Five Onion Soup Crusted with Swiss Cheese, Caesar Salad or Center-cut Iceberg. Main course choices include  Double Cut Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce, New York Strip Steak, Cajun Ribeye Steak, Broiled Salmon Fillet with Beurre Blanc Sauce and Chicken Christopher with Garlic Beurre Blanc Sauce. Choose a vegetable or potato side dish and end with either Carrot Cake or Legendary Hot Chocolate Cake. Cost: $69 a person. Full menu also available.

Ostra, Mokara Hotel and Spa, 212 W. Crockett St., 210-396-5817 — Ostra’s regular à la carte menu will be available during breakfast and lunch on Father’s Day. Featured specials will be offered during dinner service beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Texas de Brazil, 313 East Houston St., 210-299-1600 — In celebration of Father’s Day, Texas de Brazil will open at 11 a.m. with its full dinner menu and will showcase a display of unique motorcycles and exotic cars for Dad to view along with his meal. The traditional cuts beef, pork, chicken and Brazilian sausage will be offered alongside the salad bar with more than 50 items.

Tre Trattoria Downtown 401 S. Alamo St. 210-223-0401. Dad will love the $5 Bloody Marys and hearty brunch items like Tuscan Steak and Eggs or Breakfast Pizza with roasted potato, red pepper, cilantro, red onion and scrambled eggs at Tre Trattoria Downtown.  Located in the historic Fairmount hotel across from Hemisfair Park, Chef Jason Dady’s Tuscan Italian restaurant will be open this Father’s Day at 10 a.m. for brunch and will begin dinner service at 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling the phone number above; walk-ins are also welcome.

Two Bros BBQ Market 12650 West Ave. 210-496-0222 — Celebrate Father’s Day with beef ribs and specials for buckets of beer, in addition to the full menu of classic Texas barbecue featuring slow smoked brisket and homemade sides.  Open 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Wildfish Seafood Grille, 1834 N. Loop 1604 W.,  (210) 493-1600 — Wildfish has several specials for Father’s Day beginning at 5 p.m. The steak and lobster specials start at $44 for an 8-ounce filet and a half broiled and stuffed Maine lobster.  Wines on the cellar list will be offered at 25 percent off.  Plus, all fathers will receive a $25 gift card for a future visit. www.wildfishseafoodgrille.com

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill, 15900 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 25100. 210-690-3334 — Z’Tejas will offer $5 bonus cards for every $25 gift card purchase through June 19. Bonus cards, up to two per visit, may be redeemed June 20 -July 31. Father’s Day brunch will be served from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The weekend fun bar, featuring make-your-own Bloody Marys and mimosas for $3.50, will be available. Reservations not required. sanantonio.ztejas.com.