If you want to experience artful, European fare, you don’t have to invest in a pricey international plane ticket. Meson European Restaurant offers this type of global cuisine in an upscale atmosphere right here in San Antonio, and it has the feeling of a locals-only hidden gem that makes it even more special.

Meson’s menu consists of healthy, whole foods with a European flair, including premium cuts of New York strip steaks, fresh seafood, and handcrafted pasta dishes that change from season to season. Regular diners say that the prices are fair for the large portion sizes and high quality of the meals, and there is also a full bar and an impressive wine list for of-age guests.

Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the restaurant’s dining room with natural light, while multiple four-person tables covered in white tablecloths make any meal luxurious. On the weekends, Meson also features the occasional live jazz band that adds even more ambiance to your relaxed, upscale dining experience.

Meson European Restaurant
923 N. Loop 1604 East
San Antonio, TX 78232
(210) 690-5811
www.mesoneuropeandining.com
www.yelp.com/biz/meson-european-dining-san-antonio

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/star5112

You know that counting calories is essential when it comes to losing weight, but do you really understand exactly what calories are? Here are a few things that you should understand about your caloric intake.

1. Know the definition. A calorie is a term used to describe how much energy there is in a food. Your body needs a certain amount of calories to function, but excess calories turn into fat.
2. Know your limit. Everyone has a different daily calorie limit, and it all depends on your sex, age, height, and weight. You’ll need to visit a doctor or find a chart online to determine your personal recommended daily intake.
3. Create a calorie log. Keep track of how many calories you consume by recording your meals in a daily diary.
4. Evenly distribute calories. Plan ahead of time so that you can split up your calories between each meal of the day. Be careful not to consume the majority of your calories in the morning, because you won’t have many remaining to "spend" on dinner.
5. Beware of beverages. Many people don’t realize it, but the calories in drinks can really take a toll on your daily calorie limit. Be careful to record all of the beverages that you consume in addition to your meals.

Eat the Right Amount of Calories For You [Choose My Plate]
Estimated Calorie Requirements [WebMD]
American Cancer Society Calorie Counter [American Cancer Society]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr natasia.causse

Chocolate lovers in the San Antonio area love to pay a visit to Schakolad Chocolate Factory (pronounced “shaq-oh-LAD”) for sweet treats after dinner in the area. This European-style gourmet chocolate shop sells chocolates made entirely from scratch, on site. By using traditional European recipes passed down for three generations, Schakolad creates decadent chocolate truffles, rich fudges, chocolate-covered fruits, and much more. In addition to its chocolates, you can enjoy housemade ice creams on crispy waffle cones.

Inside, the shop is well decorated and inviting, containing glass display cases filled to the brim with beautiful chocolates that you can admire before making a purchase. With a convenient location right at The Vineyards in San Antonio, Schakolad makes the perfect dessert spot or even a great place to pick up a special gift!

Schakolad Chocolate Factory
1203 N Loop 1604 W
San Antonio, TX 78258
(210) 490-5333
www.schakolad.com/store29

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr m01229