Food freebies and discounts for a budget Valentine's Day
Maybe it's not the best idea to impress a new love interest, but for couples looking to save some money, there are plenty of options
Margarita Khamidulina
Valentine's Day isn't generally an occasion where you want to break out a coupon or take your loved one to a BOGO dinner. It's about showing off a little, especially for people early in a relationship, demonstrating that your feelings outweigh your financial common sense.
High-end restaurants and florists count on that sort of thinking. But in an increasingly volatile financial world, it might be time to adjust your attitude to the holidays. Or, alternatively, if you're single or have been with your partner for a long time — and don't need to overspend to prove your love, it can be fine to bargain hunt.
Valentine's Day 2026 actually has a wealth of discounts available for the thrift-minded romantics. Here are some of the deals you can take advantage of this year.
California Pizza Kitchen
Grab a heart-shaped pizza through Feb 15th or get a curated meal featuring one starter, two entrées, and one dessert for $60.
Sonny's BBQ
Use the smokehouse's app and you can get a free appetizer or dessert when you order two entrees anytime through the 15th.
Maggiano’s
The Italian chain has a $59 dinner for two special, with your choice of an appetizer or two salads, two pasta entrees and a dessert to share. That represents a savings of up to 30%.
Auntie Anne's
Get a heart-shaped pretzel — and keep an eye on the company's app. Rewards members usually get an offer for BOGO free pretzels.
Jamba
All alone? Drown your sorrows in a $3 chocolate covered smoothie. You'll have to use the app as well as the code LOVE.
Schlotzsky's
Buy any entrée and get a Cinnabon Center of the Roll dessert for just $2.
Moe's Southwest Grill
Buy one menu entrée and get another for free on Valentine's Day if you're a member of the Moe Rewards program.
McAlister’s Deli
Members of the chain's rewards program can get 50% off an entrée when another is bought at full price.
Checkers & Rally's
Get two fish or chicken sandwiches for just $4 — or mix and match between the two.
Sizzler
If you happen to have been born on Valentine's Day, your meal is free all month (though not, ironically, on Feb. 14). All guests on Feb 14 will receive a card and candles — and can get a free brownie with the purchase of the unlimited salad bar.
El Pollo Loco
Get a chicken meal for two for $12 on Feb. 13 and 14.
Biggby Coffee
Buy any sized drink and get a second for free.