Browsing through SDM’s archives, it’s clear that we’ve come a long way from the days of traditional gender roles, romantic stereotypes, and men telling us how women feel about sex. And yet, the city’s singles are still hungry for insight on navigating the eternally challenging search for love, if the response to our Digital Editor, Nicolle Monico’s, dating column, Unhinged, is any indication.

This month, we’re happy to continue carrying that torch with our issue exploring love, dating, and relationships. We take a look back at the local dating scene over the decades and give you a glimpse into what San Diego singles can expect in 2025 (spoiler: Open relationships may be en vogue).

We also dive into the world of aphrodisiacs and tell you where to find them across the county, should you need a little sumthin-sumthin to get the mood just right. We outline 20 amazing local dates—feel free to steal our ideas to charm your boo (or bestie). We also take you inside the city’s most epic hotel rooms, guest residences, and penthouses, in case you’re planning any romantic getaways.

Of course, love isn’t the only emotion we’re dwelling on this month. Food editor Troy Johnson goes hard on nostalgia, reviewing Point Loma’s newest hotspot: Ponyboy, a playful throwback to the good old days of Hamburger Helper, folding TV trays, and The Twilight Zone. For SDM Art Director Samantha Lacy, this February is all about tranquility—she heads out on a solo trip to Utah to find powdery slopes, fewer crowds, and some much needed wintertime solace.

So, no matter what the TikTok tarot card readers predict for you this year, we’re pretty sure you’ll find something to love in these pages. And if you see us enjoying some oysters, chocolates, and Champagne in the coming days… no, you didn’t.