Want to splurge on your sweetheart without busting the bank? Take advantage of TCHO’s $9 for $18 offer this Valentine’s Day, and show your other half just how sweet love can be. Founded in 2005 by a NASA space shuttle contractor and a chocolate industry veteran, TCHO (pronounced “choh”) takes the art of chocolate to a whole new level. As San Francisco’s premier chocolate manufacturer, TCHO’s self-described “obsession” with high quality dark chocolate makes it meticulous about every aspect of its operation, from bean sourcing and formula development, to its dedication to Fair Trade production. The result is a diverse array of chocolate products infused with influences from around the world, and the perfect present for that special someone with a sweet tooth.

Chocoholics will love the TCHO-A-DAY series, which dishes out a daily dose of TCHO chocolate and comes in 30, 60, and 90-day prescriptions ($20-50); TCHOPro Organic Baking Drops ($7.99 and up), originally designed for professional chefs, are a sweet addition to any cook’s kitchen; and the Hot and Cold Drinking Chocolate ($10.50) is the gift that keeps giving year-round.

Can’t make up your mind? Snag a Chocolate-Drenched Treats Tasting Pack ($32), and sample honey-roasted cashews, savory macadamias, dried mango, and roasted cacao nibs—all covered in TCHO’s signature dark chocolate.
With company like that, who needs a date for Valentine’s Day?

Since its founding in 2007, Hlaska products have been created with the principles of science, architecture, and engineering in mind. Expertly crafted from resilient materials like Italian leather, European fabric, and customized hardware, Hlaska pieces are equal parts luxury and function, and cater to everyone, from the busy professional to the casual weekender. And the best part is, the hip and functional design makes this gift one you can borrow from your man.

Looking for an upgrade on a classic, but with a twist? Check out the Evergreen line, which includes high-end leather wallets ($150.00), portfolios ($445.00), and briefcases ($795.00) embossed with a reproduction of grain from an actual piece of ebony wood. If clean and simple is more your vibe, indulge in an Artifact Weekender bag ($795.00), which combines master craftsmanship and classic design with a rugged edge, or a Nominal Metal Money Clip ($95.00), which has three pockets for ID and credit cards, and a metal money clip on the back. The Oceanist Postal Messenger bag ($425.00) is the perfect answer for people on the go: both practical and stylish, its canvas and leather detailing, secure pockets, thick shoulder strap, and sturdy upper handle make it well-equipped to handle even the most intensive daily wear and tear.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more flair, Hlaska’s designs venture into the fun and funky as well: the Astronomy Billfold ($150.00), which is embossed with the Big Dipper and Northern Cross and comes in black and bright blue, makes a great gift for that friend who’s always looking up.

And as if you weren’t sold already: Hlaska already has an iPad case. Now that’s what we call being ahead of the curve.
-Larkin Clark

While being financially savvy is the toast of the times, two-buck chuck doesn't always cut it.

Thank the gods for Nectar Wine Lounge, the Bay Area's cache of premium wines from around the world. With over 800 bottles to choose from and an ever-changing by-the-glass selection, Nectar caters to everyone, from seasoned sommelier to casual sampler. Take advantage of FreshGuide's $14 for $30 deal, and you'll be sure to find just the right glass for you.

Each week, fifty different "nectars" are hand selected to reflect the constantly evolving nature of wine, and Executive Chef Gavin Schmidt serves up a masterful menu to match. Made entirely from local and sustainable produce, Nectar Wine Lounge's self-proscribed "Nibbles" run the gamut from home-style goodness (Nectar Mac-N-Cheese, loaded with gorgonzola, goat, and parmeggiano reggiano cheeses, bacon, and bread crumbs, $11) to cultured cuisine (Duck Confit served over cumin scented lentils, with broccoli di cicco, goat cheese and pinenuts, $15).

Looking for something a little lighter? Nectar also offers munchies like Black Truffle Popcorn with chives and warm Roasted Olives with herbs (both $6) to give your palate the right size of punch. And to make your experience even more complete, each of the menu items is accompanied by an expert wine suggestion, so you're sure to get the best of both worlds.

Take one sip of Nectar, and you'll truly know what it means wine and dine.
-Larkin Clark

Famous for its hip, classy décor and upbeat environment, this Baylist 2009 Best of Mind and Body nominee boasts not one but two Meccas dedicated to full-body wellness.

At The Yoga Pad, yogis and newbies alike can experience the benefits of power yoga through a dynamic, detoxifying practice aimed at balancing and energizing from the inside, out.

Pilates more of your thing? Free on Thursday mornings? This offer also applies to Thursday morning Circuit Pilates classes at The Lily Pad. Those with a penchant for Pilates can get their groove on in a half Reformer machine, half mat class, proven to strengthen and lengthen from head to toe. All of The Pad Studios classes are infused with high-energy instruction and a playlist to match, so your heart will be pumping from hello to Namaste without a doubt.

Have a case of the rainy day blues? Don't fret, FreshGuide has just the cure to spice up your week.

Welcome to Americano Restaurant and Bar, a Gourmet Magazine pick and San Francisco favorite. This cozy-chic gem not only boasts a "slow food" menu crafted from local sustainable meat and produce, it’s also the perfect place for some fuego once you find the right flame. Panoramic views, luxe natural wood design, and an outdoor patio will immerse you in the spirit of the city, and set the scene for a palatable evening of culinary delights.

With FreshGuide’s help, treat yourself and that special someone to $40 worth of dining for $20, and nosh on traditional favorites infused with international flair. At the top of our list? Saffron Braised Halibut and Manila clams on toasted capellini with English peas and aioli ($24), and the Grilled Ribeye with a porcini dry rub, roasted purple scallions, fingerlings and mustard oil ($30). If your steamy pursuits leave you in the mood for some lighter fare, opt for the Quattro Formaggi Panino with warm seasonal soup ($13) or the House Ground Hearst Ranch Grass-Fed Burger with spicy parmesan fries ($16).

Critically acclaimed Chef Paul Arenstam’s menus cover breakfast through dinner. Early risers should sample the Short Rib and green onion hash with poached eggs, Pecorino-Romano and choice of toast ($15), or the Eggs Benedict with prosciutto, tomatoes, hollandaise and a Portuguese muffin ($16). Our mouths are watering just writing about it.

No matter what you pick, Americano’s culinary canon is sure to leave your taste buds longing for more. After all, what is life without a little longing? Pretty darn boring, that’s what.

By Larkin Clark