San Antonio Current - July 26, 2023

VOTED BEST BANK IN SAN ANTONIO

in the 33rd annual Best of San Antonio® Readers' Choice Voting Round

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DISCOVER SAN ANTONIO PUBLIC ART

“Poet's Pointe”

“The Spirit Within”

The Department of Arts & Culture’s Public Art Program allows you access to world-class art in vibrant San Antonio — all free of charge! We have some exciting new additions to the San Antonio Public Art landscape to share with you. Visit SanAntonio.gov/Arts to learn more and see a map of the public art in our collection!

“Bloom” by Leticia Huerta at Southside Lions Park

by Ashleigh Garza & Hailey Marmolejo in coordination with San Anto Cultural Arts

by Kim Bishop & Luis Valderas

111 Best of SA Services

Cover and Section Opener Illustrations by Tom Carlson.

Sign designs by Samantha Serna.

Reference Images – Cover: Sean Pavone/ Shutterstock.com, topseller./Shutterstock.com, kryzhov/Shutterstock.com, 12019/pixabay.com; Introduction: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com; Around Town: F11photo//Shutterstock.com, Nevskii Dmitrii/Shutterstock.com; People: ESB Professional/Shutterstock.com, AbeSnap23/ Shutterstock.com; Shopping: Nan Palmero/CC BY 2.0 via Flickr, dp1616/pixabay.com; Services: Evgeny Bakharev/Shutterstock.com, Bakery Lorraine/CC BY2.0 via Flickr; Food & Drink: Kellee Kovalsky/Shutterstock.com, Artem_ Dmitriev/pixabay.com; Nightlife: jamsedel// Shutterstock.com, Kaique Rocha/pexels.com.

San Antonio Current

Editor-in-Chief: Sanford Nowlin

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Editorial

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Food and Nightlife Editor: Nina Rangel

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Courtesy Photo / McNay Art Museum

Courtesy Photo / Sexology Institute

Brandon Rodriguez Daniel Conrad

Courtesy Photo / The Good Kind

San Antonio Spurs

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OUTDOOR SPACES GRANT PROGRAM

The City of San Antonio Outdoor Spaces Grant Program

assists small business owners seeking to improve the outdoor amenities at their places of business. Applicants who meet program requirements may receive $2,000 to $10,000 in matched grant offsets for eligible project expenses.

To learn more about program details and eligibility please visit our website at: www.sananonio.gov/edd/outdoor

Program Applications Open: Jul 10 - Sept 1, 2023

Grant Awardees Announced: Oct 2023

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A DELICIOUS TWIST ON A FAN-FAVORITE

2 OZ TITO’S HANDMADE VODKA

1⁄2 OZ ORANGE LIQUEUR

2 OZ LIME JUICE

1⁄4 OZ AGAVE

Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass with or without fresh ice.

Garnish with a lime slice.

Pro-Tip: If you like it salty, use a glass with a salted rim.

Welcome to the Best of San Antonio®!

San Antonio is a city in constant motion. Like other dynamic metros, it grows, evolves, changes and builds. Through it all, many familiar landmarks remain, but new ones spring up and become part of the scenery. That means our favorite things about the community are also in a state of evolution. New people arrive, bringing along new ideas. Old fixtures close or change hands. We also discover new trends and styles that alter our outlook.

That’s why the Current offers its Best of San Antonio, or BOSA, issue annually: to provide a snapshot of where the Alamo City’s tastes lie at that stage of its evolution. We invite residents to vote on the people, places, restaurants, nightlife locations, retailers and service providers that stand out as the community’s finest.

As with the past two issues, you — our readers — made 100% of the winning selections. No critics’ picks or staff-decided categories here. After all, you live here, you experience the city on the daily and you have your finger on its pulse. Plus, we provide plenty of criticism during the rest of the year, whether it be of food, music or the arts.

So, thanks to you for once again helping tell the story of San Antonio’s growth, evolution and expansion. Enjoy BOSA 2023, and if one your favorites didn’t win, remember this is a city on the move — there’s always next year.

All the best,

Sanford Nowlin Editor-in-Chief

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST BAKERY/CONCHA

Winner: La Panadería

Multiple locations lapanaderia.com

Owned and operated by two skilled brothers from Mexico City, La Panaderia has been delighting San Antonio with its exceptional creations since 2014. As evidenced by the business’ dual-category win, the conchas are particularly noteworthy for their exceptional quality and sugary topping that provides the perfect amount of crunch. The pillowy interior is satisfying and consistently well-executed. But its overall win in the bakery category should make it clear that there’s more to La Panaderia than its cochas. The tequila cream-filled almond croissant has been a local favorite for almost a decade.

BEST BAKERY

2. Alebrije Bakery

1931 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 551-1771 alebrijesa.com

3. Bedoy’s Bakery

Multiple locations bedoysbakery.com

BEST CONCHA

2. Broadway Daily Bread Multiple locations broadwaydailybread.net

3. Bedoy’s Bakery

Multiple locations bedoysbakery.com

BEST BARBACOA

Winner: Rios Barbacoa Multiple locations

2. Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations panchitos.net

3. Fajita Taco Place Multiple locations facebook.com/FajitaTacoPlace

BEST BARBECUE

Winner: Smoke Shack

3714 Broadway (210) 957-1430 smokeshacksa.com

San Antonio’s in the midst of a barbecue renaissance, gaining new spots that find creative ways to kiss meat with fire. That abundance means a restaurant

has got to serve up some truly exceptional ’cue if it’s going to stand out to Current readers. And stand out Smoke Shack does. Whether it’s smoked brisket, pulled pork or a meaty slab of ribs, the meat is succulent and packed with smoky deliciousness. House-made sausages are also a must, as are the expertly prepared sides. Get the Frito pie as an appetizer — just make sure you leave room for the rest of your meal.

2. 2M Smokehouse 2731 S. WW White Road (210) 885-9352 2msmokehouse.com

3. Pinkerton’s Barbecue 107 W. Houston St. (210) 983-0088 pinkertonsbarbecue.com

BEST BREAKFAST TACOS/ DONUT SHOP

Winner: The Original Donut Shop 3307 Fredericksburg Road (210) 734-5661

facebook.com/theoriginaldonutshop

Even though its name makes no mention of breakfast tacos, The Original Donut Shop serves up foil-wrapped packets of morning goodness that has car lining up outside. The quality is topnotch, from the pillowy scratch-made tortillas to the flavorful salsa options. And as the votes indicate, the donuts are also worth braving the crowds. Whether it’s cream-, chocolate- or fruitfilled pastries you’re jonesing for, this Deco District gem does them right. In operation since the 1950s, this spot still holds onto its classic values — includ-

ing using fresh ingredients and putting value front and center.

BEST BREAKFAST TACOS

2. Pete’s Tako House 502 Brooklyn Ave. (210) 224-2911 petestakohouse.com

3. Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations panchitos.net

BEST DONUT SHOP

2. Shipley Do-Nuts Multiple locations shipleydonuts.com

3. Super Donut Multiple locations

Jace Gertz

Smoke Shack

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST BRUNCH/COMFORT

FOOD

Winner: Comfort Cafe Multiple locations serenitystar.org

Comfort Cafe’s pay-what-youcan business model, which funds addiction recovery center SerenityStar’s programs, is reason enough to support the business, but clearly, readers also think it’s brunches and comforting eats are also winners. The homegrown brunch chain’s food has landed it on or near the top of multiple lists, including Yelp’s Top 100 Mother’s Day Brunch Spots roundup and the review site’s Top 100 Texas Restaurants of 2022. A third Comfort Cafe location is expected to open this summer north of Ingram Park Mall, so fans will have one more spot to get their mitts on churro French toast, hash-brown casserole and chili cornbread waffles.

BEST BRUNCH

2. La Panadería Multiple locations lapanaderia.com

3. Ida Claire 7300 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 667-2145 ida-claire.com

BEST COMFORT FOOD

2. Good Time Charlie’s 2922 Broadway (210) 828-5392 gtcsatx.com

3. The Hayden Multiple locations thehaydensa.com

BEST BURGER

Winner: Burger Boy Multiple locations burgerboysa.com

2. Bunz Handcrafted Burgers Multiple locations tastybunz.com

3. Chris Madrid’s 1900 Blanco Road (210) 735-3552 chrismadrids.com

BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT/SOUL FOOD

Winner: The Jerk Shack 10234 TX-151

(210) 776-7780 thejerkshacksatx.com

Owned by chef Nicola Blaque and husband Cornelius Massey, The Jerk Shack has single-handedly elevated the status of Caribbean cuisine in the Alamo City. The approachable menu’s delicious highlights range from jerk tacos and steamed fish to braised oxtails and curry goat. In addition to the praise of Current readers, The Jerk Shack has won recognition from Eater and GQ, both of which named it one of the best restaurants in the United States. Blaque also was nominated for Best Chef: Texas in the 2023 James Beard Awards.

BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT

2. Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas 910 S. Alamo St. (210)-314-2723 lunarosatapas.com

3. Mi Roti 312 Pearl Parkway, Building 6 miroti210.com

BEST SOUL FOOD

2. Tony G’s Soul Food Multiple locations

tonygssoulfood.com

3. Mr. C’s Fried Chicken & Waffles Multiple locations mrcsfcw.com

BEST CHARCUTERIE Winner: Cured 306 Pearl Parkway, Suite 101 (210) 314-3929 curedatpearl.com

2. The Good Kind 1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

3. The Board Couple 2218 N. Zarzamora St.  (210) 573-2100 theboardcouple.com

BEST CHICKEN FRIED STEAK Winner: Josephine Street 400 E. Josephine St. (210) 224-6169 josephinestreet.com

Located in a building more than 100 years old, San Antonio mainstay Josephine Street is serving up more than a sense of history. Crowds flock to the space for its impeccable service and

abundant servings of comfort food — including its famous chicken fried steak. Deep fried to a golden brown and smothered in creamy Southern-style gravy, Josephine Street’s take on this Texas favorite is notable for both for its abundance and its surprising tenderness. No shoe leather lurks under the crisp exterior.

2. Good Time Charlie’s 2922 Broadway (210) 828-5392 gtcsatx.com

3. M.K. Davis Restaurant 1302 N. Flores St.  (210) 223-1208 facebook.com/mkdavisrestaurant

BEST CHINESE FOOD

Winner: Golden Wok Multiple locations goldenwoksa.com

2. Ding How 4531 NW Loop 410 (210) 340-7944 dinghowsa.com

3. Mencius Gourmet 7959 Fredericksburg Road #147 (210) 615-1288 menciussanantonio.com

Nina Rangel

LEON VALLEY STONE OAK ALAMO RANCH

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST CHURROS

Winner: Honchos – The House of Churros

Multiple locations honchoschurros.com

2. I Love Churros Coffee Shop 7007 Bandera Road, Suite 14 (210) 888-1550 facebook.com/ilovechurrosatx

3. ChurroStar

Multiple locations churrostar.com

BEST COFFEE SHOP

Winner: Summer Moon Coffee Multiple locations summermooncoffee.com

2. Folklores Coffee House 1526 E. Grayson St. (210) 455-0360 facebook.com/folklorescoffeehouse

3. Brevity Coffee Co. (Tie) Multiple locations brevitycoffee.com

3. La Panadería (Tie) Multiple locations lapanaderia.com

BEST CRAWFISH/BEST SEAFOOD

Winner: Smashin Crab Multiple locations smashincrab.com

BEST CRAWFISH

2. Willie’s Grill & Icehouse Multiple locations williesgrillandicehouse.com

3. SA Seafood 5222 De Zavala Road #330 (210) 236-7777 saseafoodtx.com

BEST SEAFOOD

2. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Multiple locations pappadeaux.com

3. Sea Island Shrimp House

Multiple locations shrimphouse.com

BEST DATE NIGHT

RESTAURANT

Winner: Bar Loretta 320 Beauregard St. (210) 757-3607 barloretta.com

The dimly lit atmosphere and cozy seating inside Bar Loretta make for an intimate setting primed for flirty banter. Plus, the drinks are top-notch, and the food is delicious. What more could a date ask for? Good service from the friendly, attentive staff also helps, and imbibing a Negroni or Aperol Spritz is always a good way to grease the romantic wheels. And here’s some consolation: Bar Loretta’s crispy Brussels sprouts and red wine-braised lamb shank are a near-perfect combination — even if you and your dinner companion don’t end up hitting it off.

2. The Esquire Tavern 155 E. Commerce St. (210) 222-2521 esquiretavern-sa.com

3. Copa Wine Bar 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 704 (210) 495-2672 thecopawinebar.com

BEST ENCHILADAS/MENUDO

Winner: Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations panchitos.net

Roy and Evelyn Reyes opened their first Panchito’s in 1980 in Southwest San Antonio and quickly developed a following for their enchiladas and menudo, both of which taste even better when accompanied by the spot’s not-to-be-missed tortillas. Panchito’s two current locations boast colorful interiors and affable waitstaffs, though we suspect the business’ deft hand at two San Antonio staples may be the principal draw. Lots of people serve enchiladas and menudo in the 2-1-0. Few have them down to this kind of Tex-Mex science.

Courtesy Photo / Smashin Crab

Smashin Crab

VOTED BEST COMFORT FOOD & BEST BRUNCH

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST ENCHILADAS

2. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Barr 722 S. Saint Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

3. The Original Blanco Cafe 7934 Fredericksburg Road (210) 692-3233 theoriginalblancocafe.com

BEST MENUDO

2. Rios Barbacoa

Multiple locations

3. Fajita Taco Place

Multiple locations facebook.com/fajitatacoplace

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Winner: The Cove

606 W. Cypress St. (210) 227-2683 thecove.us

The Cove has become known for a lot of things in its 22 years of operation — such as its great Texas beer selection and the fact that it also features a carwash. However, the combination of the restaurant’s shaded playscape for the kiddos, relaxed outdoor dining area and its quality menu that make it a favorite for family dining. The sustainable, organic and local aesthetic of the food is found in the Cove’s well-regarded fish tacos, its grass-fed beef and bison burgers, its abundant salads and fresh-cut sweet potato fries. The spot is also vegan friendly, serving up a variety of sandos that can make fans of die-

hard carnivores.

2. Sea Island Shrimp House Multiple locations shrimphouse.com

3. The Good Kind 1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

BEST FOOD TRUCK

Winner: Aroy Ver Thai Bite 2202 Broadway instagram.com/aroy_ver

Savory fried rice, beef massaman curry, pad woonsen and other Thai street-food favorites are the draw at this downtown-area mobile kitchen. While there are plenty of other Thai spots in town, owner Pear Chaisittisinsuk’s devotion to her Thai roots makes Aroy Ver and musttry. Most of the menu items are dishes that she grew up eating, after all. Check out Chaisittisinsuk’s Thai style omelet — khao khai jiao — for a sampling of homey deliciousness. The savory egg dish is topped with cilantro and served with jasmine rice, Thai sriracha sauce and sliced cucumbers.

2. Clutch City Cluckers 14530 Roadrunner Way (210) 245-0072 clutchcitycluckers.com/ san-antonio-utsa

3. Benjie’s Munch Multiple locations benjiesmunch.com

Sanford Nowlin

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST FOOD TRUCK PARK

Winner: The Block SA

14530 Roadrunner Way (210) 690-3333 theblocksa.com

Popular with the UTSA crowd, The Block SA serves up more than just a collection of mobile kitchens — it serves up an food experience. Sprawling over acres of land near the university’s Northwestern San Antonio campus, it offers diners the chance to enjoy views of the Texas Hill Country while trying a dynamic array of foods, ranging from pizza at Bob & Timmy’s on Wheels to Cilantro Mexican Fusion’s border-inspired vittles. Looking for something different? Chow down on an arepa — a traditional Venezuelan snack similar to an empanada — from Zulia’s Kitchen. Whatever your choice, wash it down with a cold beer from the bar while catching up with friends in this distinctive park-like setting.

2. El Camino SA 1009 Avenue B elcaminosa.com

3. Area 51 Food Park 12275 Potranco Road (210) 214-1748 facebook.com/area51foodpark

BEST FRENCH FRIES/WINGS

Winner: Wingstop Multiple locations wingstop.com

FRENCH FRIES

2. Burger Boy Multiple locations burgerboysa.com

3. Mina & Dimi’s Greek House 7159 U.S. Highway 90 West (210) 674-3464 agreekhouse.com

WINGS

2. Wayne’s Wings Multiple locations wayneswingssa.com

3. Wing Daddy’s Sauce House Multiple locations wingdaddysusa.com

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

Winner: Bill Miller Bar-B-Q Multiple locations billmillerbbq.com

2. Chatman’s Chicken 1747 S. WW White Road (210) 359-0245 chatmanschicken210.com

3. Earl Abel’s 1639 Broadway (210) 444-9424 earlabelssa.com

BEST FRUTERÍA

Winner: Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More Multiple locations lasnieves.net

This delightful chain offers a refreshing array of fruit cups perfect for summertime snacking. Each cup is a vibrant blend of juicy fresh produce, meticulously sliced and arranged to create a towering visual feast. While folks line up for classic combinations such as watermelon and mango,

adventurous eaters shouldn’t overlook island-centric additions such as jicama and coconut. Each Las Nieves location is an oasis of fresh flavors that tantalizes taste buds with its natural ice creams, agues frescas, shaved ice, Mexican snacks and an extensive collection of paleta flavors. It’s easy to see what the business has continued to expand since its 2001 inception.

2. Fruteria La Mission 553 E. White Ave. (210) 922-2997

3. Tropic Express 10167 Culebra Road (210) 522-0608 facebook.com/tropicexpress

BEST HOT CHICKEN

Winner: Cullum’s Attagirl 726 E. Mistletoe Ave. (210) 437- 4263 cullumsattagirl.com

2. Clutch City Cluckers 14530 Roadrunner Way (210) 245-0072 clutchcitycluckers.com

3. Krazy Katsu 5257 McCullough Ave. (210) 254-9533 krazykatsu.com

BEST HOT DOG

Winner: The Dogfather Multiple locations sadogfather.com

2. Chicago Hot Dogs 12914 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 906-5260 chicagohotdogs.com

3. El Chunky 2620 S. Presa St. (210) 607-3002 elchunky.com

Jace Gertz

Bill Miller Bar-B-Q

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST ICE CREAM

Winner: Lick Honest Ice Creams Multiple locations ilikelick.com

2. 210 Ice Cream 7126 Bandera Road (210) 265-5886 210icecream.netlify.app

3. Amy’s Ice Creams 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 430 (210) 832-8886 amysicecreams.com

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

Winner: India Palace 8474 Fredericksburg Road (210) 692-5262 indiapalacesanantonio.com

2. Simi’s India Cuisine 4535 Fredericksburg Road #109 (210) 737-3166

3. India Oven 1031 Patricia Drive, Suite 106 (210) 544-5968 indiaovensa.com

BEST INTERNATIONAL MARKET

Winner: Tim’s Oriental & Seafood Market 7015 Bandera Road, Suite 8 (210) 523-1688

facebook.com/timsorientalmkt

2. Ali Baba International Food Market 9307 Wurzbach Road (210) 691-1111

facebook.com/alibabasanantonio

3. Minnano Japanese Grocery 7460 Callaghan Road, Suite 310 (210) 340-7900

facebook.com/minnano.japanesegrocery

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT Winner: Paesanos Multiple locations paesanos.com

2. Little Italy Restaurant & Pizzeria 824 Afterglow St. (210) 349-2060 littleitalysatx.com

3. Pazzo Pastaria 13777 Nacogdoches Road #107 (210) 277-0663 pazzopastaria.com

BEST JUICE SHOP

Winner: Bee’s Wellness Cafe & Juicery 3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102 (210) 836-8141 beeswellnesscafe.com

2. Revolución Coffee + Juice Multiple locations revolucionsa.com

3. Squeezers Juice Bar 914 E. Elmira St., Suite 103 (210) 943-0054 instagram.com/squeezers_juice_bar

BEST KOREAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Kogi Korean Grill 12651 Vance Jackson Road, Suite 108 (210) 558-2018 kogisa.com

2. Ilsong Garden 6905 Blanco Road (210) 366-4508 ilsonggardensa.com

3. Koreana Restaurant 2458 Harry Wurzbach Road, Suite 5 (210) 804-0019 koreanasanantonio.com

BEST LATE NIGHT PLACE TO EAT

Winner: Whataburger Multiple locations whataburger.com

2. Mama Margie’s Multiple locations mamamargies.com

3. Jim’s Restaurants Multiple locations jimsrestaurants.com

BEST LATIN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Gloria’s Latin Cuisine 17623 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 103 (210) 451-5412 gloriascuisine.com

2. La Playa Seafood 3343 West Ave. (210) 340-2762 laplayaseafood.com

3. Leche de Tigre 318 E. Cevallos St. (210) 265-5933 lechedetigretx.com

Courtesy Photo / Lick Honest Ice Creams

Lick Honest Ice Creams

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Mina & Dimi’s Greek House

7159 U.S. Highway 90 West (210) 674-3464 agreekhouse.com

Although Dimi Tsandoula, the affable patriarch of Mina & Dimi’s Greek House died earlier this year, his restaurant remains — and it’s clear Current readers love it more than ever. Fans have long sought out the momand-pop restaurant for its lively atmosphere. Greek music welcomes diners as they step inside the cozy dining

room adorned with Aegean decor. Fla vorful Mediterranean faves including gyros, spanakopita and dolmades live up to the festive surroundings, and the mouthwatering selection of desserts is a nice surprise. Friendly, attentive staff and a reasonably priced menu give Mina & Dimi’s an all-around value that San Antonians are likely to crave for years to come.

2. Pasha Mediterranean Grill

Multiple locations gopasha.com

3. Papouli’s Greek Grill

Multiple locations papoulis.com

Best of SA | Food & Drink

The Good Kind

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

722 S. Saint Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

Now comfortably holding forth in grand new digs a mere tortilla’s toss from its old ones, Rosario’s would be equally at home in the Distrito Federal, which is to say it gives Mexican food a whole new face in San Antonio. And yet the menu remains as familiar thanks to longtime favorites such as Angelica’s ceviche fino, pozole and fideo loco, enchiladas suizas and the parilla de carnitas still occupying pride of place. Along with seared shishito peppers , a chile relleno de califlor might have raised an eyebrow in years past, but today nobody bats an eye. Nor do they find extraño the notion of an age-limited (25 and older) rooftop bar. Slip into in your Insta-best duds and head upstairs for a sophisticated vibe and panoramic vistas of the city skyline.

2. Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations panchitos.net

3. Garcia’s Mexican Food 842 Fredericksburg Road

(210) 735-4525

BEST NEW RESTAURANT Winner: Pazzo Pastaria

13777 Nacogdoches Road #107 (210) 277-0663 pazzopastaria.com

Pazzo Pastaria aims to transport diners to the heart of Italy with its well-prepared cuisine from bel paese and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The team behind this newish Northeast San Antonio eatery takes pride in crafting pasta from scratch, ensuring each dish is a labor of love. From classic favorites like spaghetti carbonara to more adventurous items such as pumpkin ravioli, the menu offers a range of options to satisfy any pasta lover. If your pasta-fueled gluttony hasn’t left you unable to fathom another bite at the end of the meal, dig into a slice of multilayered limoncello tiramisu.

2. The Cottage Irish Pub 3810 Broadway (210) 463-9111 thecottageirishpub.com

3. Tokyo Cowboy 135 E. Commerce St. (210) 305-7075

tokyocowboytx.com

BEST PIZZA

Winner: Mattenga’s Pizzeria

Multiple locations

mattengas.com

Opened in 2014 by a pair of engineers with not a shred of restaurant experience between them, this homegrown mini-chain now boasts six locations across the Alamo City. Mattenga’s growth and cult following are impressive given the formidable competition it faces not just from mom-and-pop pizzerias but also national chains. Famous for its variety of homemade ranch sauces such as jalapeño-cilantro and basil-garlic, the chain also does an exceptional job with hand-tossed pies, wings and tubular pizzas called Texas Rolls, which feature rolled dough filled with mozzarella cheese and goodness such as meatballs, pepperoni or brisket. Health-conscious diners even have gluten-free and protein-rich crust options to choose from.

2. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

Multiple locations grimaldispizzeria.com

3. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

Multiple locations doughpizzeria.com

BEST PUFFY TACOS

Winner: Henry’s Puffy Tacos Multiple locations henryspuffytacos.com

There’s nothing like a good puffy taco. At their best, the airy pocket of fried goodness serve as quintessential San Antonio calling cards. Over its 45-year history, Henry’s Puffy Tacos has perfected the art of the Tex-Mex favorite and remains a longtime winner in this category. Founder Henry Lopez and family clearly felt strongly enough about their puffy taco game that they put it in their business’ name. The Lopezes now proudly peddle the deep-fried masa at two locations, one on the West Side and another in Leon Valley. Here’s to 45 years, Henry’s — and many more.

2. Ray’s Drive Inn 822 SW 19th St. (210) 432-7171 facebook.com/RaysDriveInn

3. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar 722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

Courtesy Photo / The Good Kind

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST RAMEN

Winner: Nama Ramen

6526 Babcock Road (210) 641-2888

namaramen.com

Known for a straightforward menu highlighting Japanese ingredients and for its ability to serve up scalding bowls of noodle soup rich with umami, it’s little surprise to see Nama Ramen score victory in this category. Especially since it’s won four times prior. The restaurant has been serving up slurpable fare in 2015 and reopened in a larger digs in 2021 to accommodate its rapid following. Beyond ramen bathed in its creamy tonkotsu and earthy miso broths, Nama offers chopstick-friendly fare such as gyoza, karaage chicken, bao and sushi — all of which go down easy thanks to the spot’s easygoing vibes.

1017 N. Flores St. (210) 444-0702

kimurasa.com

Multiple locations bakudanramen.com

BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPECIAL DIETS/BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

Winner: The Good Kind

1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

Health and sustainability is the name of the game for Southtown’s The Good Kind, which primarily serves locally sourced ingredients and a wide range of menu options supporting a variety of diets. While its view of the San Antonio skyline and beautiful outdoor patio are enticing, The Good Kind’s real draw is its menu. Equal parts delicious and diverse, the food offered here can accommodate a healthy lifestyle in whatever form it may take. Appetizing vegetarian and vegan options are a star attraction, but so are options for people on other diets such as paleo and keto. For a healthy lunch or brunch, as well as happy hour and fun events like trivia, yoga and occasional live music, The Good Kind has shown itself to be a spot that can be on nearly anyone’s list.

BEST SPECIAL DIETS

2. Pharm Table

611 S. Presa St., Suite 106 (210) 802-1860 pharmtable.com

3. Green Vegetarian Cuisine 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 940 (210) 320-5865 eatatgreen.com

BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

2. Green Vegetarian Cuisine 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 940 (210) 320-5865 eatatgreen.com

3. Pharm Table 611 S. Presa St., Suite 106 (210) 802-1860 pharmtable.com

BEST SALSA

Winner: Pericos Mexican Cuisine 10820 Bandera Road (210) 684-5376 pericosgrill.com

2. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar 722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

3. El Mirasol

Multiple locations elmirasolsa.com

BEST SANDWICHES

Winner: Gino’s Deli 13210 Huebner Road (210) 764-0602 myginosdeli.com

2. W.D. Deli 3123 Broadway (210) 828-2322 wddeli.com

3. Zito’s Deli Multiple locations zitosdeli.net

BEST SNACKS

Winner: Jefferson Bodega 1005 Donaldson Ave. (210) 735-0900 instagram.com/jeffersonbodega

2. 210 Ice Cream 7126 Bandera Road (210) 265-5886 210icecream.netlify.app

3. Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More Multiple locations lasnieves.net

2. Kimura

3. Bakudan Ramen

Courtesy Photo / The Jerk Shack

Jerk Shack

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST STEAKHOUSE

Winner: Little Red Barn 1836 S. Hackberry St. (210) 532-4235 lrbsteakhouse.com

2. Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood 219 E. Houston St. #275 (210) 472-2600 bohanans.com

3. Tu Asador 8055 West Ave., Suite #125 (210) 530-4595 tuasadorsatx.com

BEST SUSHI

Winner: Sushi Zushi Multiple locations sushizushi.com

2. Godai Sushi 11203 West Ave. (210) 899-4832 godaisushi.com

3. Sushihana Japanese Restaurant

1810 NW Military Highway (210) 340-7808 sushihanasan.com

BEST TACOS

Winner: Garcia’s Mexican Food 842 Fredericksburg Road (210) 735-4525

2. Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant Multiple locations panchitos.net

3. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar 722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

BEST TAMALES

Winner: Delia’s 13527 Hausman Pass (210) 864-1111 deliastamales.com

2. Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa Multiple locations

3. Tamale Boy Tacos & Tamales Multiple locations satamaleboy.com

Courtesy Photo / Cured

Best of SA | Food & Drink

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

Winner: Tong’s Thai 1146 Austin Highway (210) 829-7345

tongsthai.com

This eclectically decorated, woman-owned business has been slinging Thai and Chinese staples along with sushi for more than 30 years, suggesting both that the kitchen crew know they’re doing and that San Antonio loves the food. Super-crisp and loaded with pork, clear noodles, mushrooms and carrots, the fried spring rolls are longtime favorites for Thai food junkies, as is the kaeng ped red curry with beef. The latter provides a lingering burn that will have you sucking down bubble or jasmine iced tea for relief — but that’s a positive thing when it comes to Thai food, right? When the weather outside gets more bearable, ask for a table on the patio and let the trickling koi pond provide a soothing background for your meal.

2. Thai Dee Restaurant 5307 Blanco Road (210) 342-3622 thaideesa.com

3. Aroy Ver Thai Bite 2202 Broadway instagram.com/aroy_ver

BEST VEGAN RESTAURANT

Winner: Green Vegetarian Cuisine

255 E. Basse Road, Suite 940 (210) 320-5865 eatatgreen.com

HASH Vegan Eats 5007 S. Flores St. hashveganeatery.com

3. Thai Topaz

2177 NW Military Highway (210) 290-9833 thaitopaz-sat.com

BEST VIETNAMESE

RESTAURANT

Winner: Pho Kim Long

4230 McCullough Ave., #2 (210) 829-8021 facebook.com/phokimlongsa

2. Singhs Vietnamese

2803 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 320-0171 toasttab.com/singhs

3. Taste of Asia

300 W. Bitters Road, Suite 120 (210) 496-6266 tasteofasiarestaurants.com

BEST WINE LIST

Winner: Copa Wine Bar 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 704 (210) 495-2672 thecopawinebar.com

If there were a category for sticktoitivity, Copa would win that too. This spot has been serving the Stone Oak area and be-

yond for decades with both a near-encyclopedic wine list and a dependable menu of go-with bites such as hummus and even pizza. The wine list is organized by varietals and blends. The Cabernet Sauvignon category, for example, consists of some 21 bottles, heavy on California, but also dipping into Washington state and Lebanon. But the most fun to be had resides in the tasting flights of four wines with a focus. Drawing a Blanc consists of Sauvignon Blancs from California, Chile and New Zealand, while Pinot Envy gives you two from California and one each from France and New Zealand. The $5 by-the-

glass happy hour is surely one of the best deals in town and includes 25% off all bottles.

2. Little Death 2327 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 264-6472 littledeathwine.com

3. High Street Wine Co. 302 Pearl Parkway #104 (210) 908-9144 highstreetwine.com

Courtesy Photo / Copa Wine Bar

Copa Wine Bar

Best of SA | People

BEST AESTHETICIAN

Winner: The Injection Room 1010 S. Flores St., Suite 117 (210) 245-1420 theinjectionroom.com

2. The Lash Doctor 724 S. Alamo St. #2 (210) 778-4504 thelashdoctorsa.com

3. Jazxaesthetics Luxury Skin

Studio 4416 Ramsgate St. # 201 (210) 788-1073 jazxaesthetics.com

BEST ALL-TIME SPURS PLAYER

Winner: Tim Duncan

2. Manu Ginobili

3. David Robinson

BEST ATTORNEY/BEST PODCAST

Winner: Law Office of Jesse Hernandez and Kickin’ It With the Texas Chancla jessehernandezlaw.com youtube.com/@TexasChancla

Anative of Lytle, just south of San Antonio, St. Mary’s University Law School grad Jesse Hernandez initially headed to Laredo to defend insurance firms. However, after realizing his true interest was in helping the little guy, he joined the Webb County public defender’s office. Eventually, Hernandez returned to San Antonio and set up his general law office as a plaintiff’s attorney in civil disputes while defending clients with criminal charges. Initially, he faced frustration after hanging out his shingle, bouncing in and out of his own practice and working for other firms. “If nobody knows who you are, how can they hire you? If nobody knows you exist, how can they come see you? Being a great lawyer isn’t enough to run a business,” Hernandez said in an episode of his category-winning podcast Kickin’ It with the Texas Chancla. In the podcast, he explains the evolution of his marketing and the invention of his identification with the chancla — the stereotypical disciplinary tool of South Texas Hispanic mothers. “A friend called and said, ‘Jesse, I’m not afraid of a hammer, but I am afraid of my mother’s chancla,’” the attorney said of why he grabbed hold of the marketing

schtick.

BEST ATTORNEY

2. The Hicks Law Firm Multiple locations jhickslawfirm.com

3. Thomas J. Henry 5711 University Heights Blvd. #101 (210) 874-2615 thomasjhenrylaw.com

BEST PODCAST

2. Scary Not Scary Podcast scarynotscarypodcast.podbean.com

3. Good Morning Darlings!

BEST BURLESQUE TROUPE Winner: Haus of Erotique hausoferotique.com

As its name suggests, the award-winning local burlesque troupe Haus of Erotique doesn’t shy away from the racier fringes of the genre, routinely delivering performances that sway toward fetish and kink over classic vaudeville and striptease. Regulars at both the St. Mary’s Strip haunt Jandro’s Garden Patio and Brick at Blue Star, the troupe often adopts themes for its shows — whether it be jazzy New Orleans culture, rock ’n’ roll, cumbia, retro tiki or the Wild West. In addition to its annual Fet Gala showcase, Haus of Erotique — which is led by troupe mother Marie Risqué — organizes the Red Room, a recurring fetish party that aims to create a safe space for folks to explore kink and BDSM while dressed as “the most extravagant and extreme” versions of themselves.

2. Pastie Pops Burlesque Revue facebook.com/pastiepops

3. Crème De La Crème Cabaret instagram.com/cremedelacremecabaret

BEST CHEF Winner: Tim McDiarmid, The Good Kind Hospitality Group

1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

San Antonio chef and restaurateur Tim McDiarmid has stolen foodies’ hearts with her fresh approach to dining and drinking, but her 2021 appearance on Food Network’s competition series Chopped

raised her profile even further. The Canadian-born culinary pro not only operates Tim the Girl Catering, The Good Kind restaurant and Southtown garden venue Ivy Hall, she also participates in exclusive workshops that focus on topics relevant to food systems at the local, state and national levels. McDiarmid told the Current in past interviews that she sees these as opportunities to advocate for her own farm-to-table philosophies while learning from other chefs and speakers about how she can

help improve the San Antonio community.

2. Jason Dady, Jason Dady Restaurants multiple locations jasondady.com

3. Laurent Réa, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

312 Pearl Parkway (210) 469-3743

brasseriemonchouchou.com

Tim McDiarmid

Courtesy Photo / Tim The Girl

Best of SA | People

BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST

Winner: Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, District 2 Councilman sa.gov

2. Rey Lopez, Rey Lopez Entertainment reylopezentertainment.net

3. Jeremy Sarten, Pride Center San Antonio instagram.com/jeremyjpan

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

Winner: Dr. Emily Fridlington, Alamo Heights Dermatology

Multiple locations (210) 255-8447 alamoheightsderm.com

2. Dr. Mobolaji Opeola, Westover Hills Dermatology

Multiple locations (830) 261-3212 westoverhillsdermatology.com

3. Dr. Nicole M. Owens, Dermatology Specialists of San Antonio

2520 Broadway #202 (210) 541-4884 dermsouthtx.com

BEST DRAG PERFORMER/ INSTAGRAM INFLUENCER/ LOCAL CELEBRITY

Winner: Kristi Waters kristiwaters.com

As far as second chapters go, former Corpus Christi elementary school teacher Kristi Waters is winning in more ways than one. Local drag fans may know Waters best as the energetic hostess of the buzzy drag brunch series at Paramour, where she also serves as general manager and entertainment director — or, in her words, the “head bitch in charge.” But Waters, who amusingly bills herself as “the most expensive water in San Antonio,” is also the creator of the campy, one-woman comedy shows I Promise I’m Funny and Santa, I Can Explain! A Lady Gaga superfan and impersonator who was once drag mother to famed San Antonio export Jorgeous, Waters last year served as the inaugural Grand Marshal of the Bud Light Pride River Parade and Celebration. During this year’s Pride celebrations, Waters received an official commendation from Mayor Ron Nirenberg based on her active role in the local LGBTQ+ community. “I am honored

by this moment,” Waters shared on Instagram. “I will continue to be a driving force in promoting equality and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community in San Antonio. Thank you to everyone who continues to support me and all entertainers in the great city of San Antonio!”

BEST DRAG PERFORMER

2. Anita Verga instagram/anita_verga_

3. Tencha La Jefa instagram.com/tenchalajefa

BEST INSTAGRAM INFLUENCER

2. Puro Pinche instagram.com/puropinchesa

3. Law Office of Jesse Hernandez instagram.com/texaschancla

BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY

2. Rey Lopez reylopezentertainment.net

3. Kris Laguana facebook.com/krislaguana

BEST LOCAL CLOTHING DESIGNER

Winner: Dakota Whitney facebook.com/dakota.whitney.73

2. Hunsen Abequeer instagram.com/hunsen_abequeer

3. Austin Alegria austinalegria.com

BEST LOCAL FILMMAKER

Winner: DW Goodloe aka Dat Mayne DeeWayne goodvisualz.com

Filmmaker DW Goodloe, aka Dat Mayne DeeWayne, owns Good Visualz Productions and serves as director and one of the stars of the San Antonio-shot online series The Odd Life of Shay Little. The first two seasons, which can be found at the GoodVisualzTV channel on YouTube, follows a Black father and white stepfather raising their daughter together after her military mother goes MIA. Goodloe, a 1997 graduate of East Central High School, describes it as a mix between the The Odd Couple and My Two Dads. “There’s a bad stigma out there about Black fathers, so I wanted to make a social commentary on that,” said Goodloe, 44. He hopes to start

shooting the third season in early 2024. His passion project is to turn his short film Freeword: Moment of Impact, into a feature. “I want to make a living as a filmmaker and not just do it as a hobby,” he added.

2. Jose Raul Corres joseraulcorres.com

3. Kayla Whittaker instagram.com/kaylawhittakerr

BEST LOCAL POET

Winner: Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson andreavocabsanderson.com

As San Antonio’s 2020-2023 Poet Laureate, Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson has been charged with representing the city artistically while elevating local appreciation of the written word. Con-

sider her a success on both fronts. Few Alamo City poets have enjoyed Sanderson’s profile and impact, which stem not just from her fancy city-bestowed title but her tireless work to expand poetry’s reach. Also a formidable singer and hip-hop artist, Sanderson has brought the form new accessibility through her activism, music releases and educational efforts. For example, the Echo Project, her ambitious signature initiative as Poet Laureate, brought together student poets of all ages and experience levels to create and present original work inspired by people who helped shape San Antonio’s culture.

2. Ethan Berry facebook.com/ethan.berry.98478

3. Rashaad Strong facebook.com/rashaad.a.strong

Francisco Cortes

Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson

Best of SA | People

BEST LOCAL RADIO SHOW

Winner: Billy Madison Show, KISS-FM kissrocks.com/on-air/ the-billy-madison-show

2. The Urban Suite, KSYM-FM ksym.com

3. The Blitz with Jason & Joe, KTFM sasportsstar.com/shows/blitz

BEST MASCOT

Winner: Spurs Coyote instagram.com/spurscoyote

2. Cowboy Cash, Lone Star National Bank lonestarnationalbank.com

3. The Puffy Taco from Henry’s Puffy Tacos Inc. instagram.com/henry.thepuffytaco

BEST METEOROLOGIST

Winner: Alex Garcia, KABB foxsanantonio.com

2. Sarah Spivey, KSAT ksat.com

3. Adam Caskey, KSAT ksat.com

BEST NEWS ANCHOR

Winner: Isis Romero, KENS5 kens5.com

Isis Romero grabbed BOSA’s Best News Anchor title in 2021 and hasn’t let go, winning for three straight years. KSAT should have taken a similarly tight hold on the Corpus Christi native — instead, management decided not to renew her contract in 2021. She’s since become a favorite at KENS 5 after returning to the air there to anchor its 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. weeknight newscasts. It’s also a family affair at her new station since husband Phil Anaya serves as longtime weekend anchor at the CBS affiliate.

2. Steve Spriester, KSAT ksat.com

3. Niccole Caan, KENS5 kens5.com

BEST PET GROOMER

Winner: Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa

Multiple locations

(210) 495-3647

lucysdoggydaycare.com

2. For the Love of Dogs Pet Boutique & Grooming 2815 N. Loop 1604 East, Suite 111 (210) 265-3611 facebook.com/fortheloveofdogstx

3. Shayla’s TopKnotch Grooming instagram.com/ shaylastopknotchgrooming

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Winner: Julián P. Ledezma instagram.com/jplproductions

2. JoJoDancer Photography jojodancerphotography.com

3. D&A Photography instagram.com/danielbarragan31

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

Winner: Dr. Manuel Lopez, Advanced Aesthetics Multiple locations lopezplasticsurgery.com

2. San Antonio Plastic Surgery Institute

414 W. Sunset Road #215 (210) 920-7922 drdecherd.com

3. Dr. Wendie Grunberg, Alluring Aesthetics 16530 Huebner Road #201 (210) 714-5390 alluringaesthetics.com

BEST POLITICIAN

Winner: Mayor Ron Nirenberg sa.gov

As he enters his fourth and final term, Mayor Ron Nirenberg has fallen short of some progressives’ hopes, especially when it comes to hastening CPS Energy’s quick closure of its dirtiest plant. Even, so his continued wins in this category — four since 2020 — demonstrate his broad appeal to Alamo City voters. For one, the former District 8 councilman strives to present himself a mayor dedicated to representing all of San Antonio — this at a time when leaders in Texas’ GOP-dominated state government have targeted immigrants and the LGBTQ+ commu-

nity to curry favor with their party’s most extreme voters. Beyond standing up to bullies in Austin, Nirenberg has demonstrated his resolve as a calm and steady leader when many others in the political realm appear to be bent on stirring division and chaos.

2. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro castro.house.gov

3. Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez sa.gov

BEST REAL ESTATE BROKER

Winner: Jamie Zapata jzapata.cbharper.com

2. Malouff Realty 18585 Sigma Road #105 (210) 791-8774 malouffrealty.com

3. Redbird Realty 14975 I-35 Frontage Road (210) 783-011 redbird-realty.com

Courtesy Photo / Office of Mayor Ron Nirenberg

Ron Nirenberg

MarkAnthony Ball

To my San Antonio family:

Thank you.

It’s my great gratitude to be honored as San Antonio’s number 1 REALTOR for 2023. Such an accolade is both humbling and heartwarming. If you were with me from the beginning of my journey, you’ll remember in 2021 I earned #3, 2022 I earned #2 and this year, #1. It’s a complete full circle and transformative moment that I will forever cherish.

I stand in awe of the sense of community that is so prevalent in our vibrant city, the very place that has allowed me to live out my dream each day. To those who took the time to cast a vote, I want you to know that your confidence in my work is truly the highest praise I could ever receive. It’s a privilege to serve this beautiful community that we all call home.

I believe that real estate is more than transactions, it’s about creating meaningful relationships and helping others build their dreams. Every family, every individual, and every home has a unique story, and I am grateful for the trust that you’ve given me in becoming part of your journey. Luxury isn’t a price point, it’s an experience.

San Antonio, thank you again. Your kindness, trust and confidence in me mean the world. I’m honored to be a part of this unmatched community, and to be San Antonio’s Number 1 Realtor of 2023.

Here’s to another year of helping the community of San Antonio buy, sell, invest, and rent.

POR VIDA!

Photo Credit Trisha Lindsey IG / @trishalindseyphoto

Best of SA | People Ray

BEST REALTOR

Winner: MarkAnthony Ball bigretx.com/markanthony-ball

2. Rueben Hernandez-Valdez instagram.com/rueben_realtor

3. John Wilkins, Redbird Realty facebook.com/johnawilkinsrealtor

BEST SPORTS PERSONALITY

Winner: Gregg Popovich, San Antonio Spurs head coach andreavocabsanderson.com

For all the online and AM radio shit talk about longtime Spurs coach Gregg Popovich alienating fans with his willingness to talk about inequality in the United States — including calling former President Donald Trump’s racism exactly what it is — San Antonians still love Pop. Agree or disagree with the man, his record speaks for itself. He’s earned five NBA titles, three Coach of the Year awards and last year became the winningest coach in the league’s regular-season history. Now, with a new five-year, $80 million contract in hand and No. 1 draft pick Victor Wembanyama in the Spurs’ arsenal, it appears that Pop is ready to rack up even more love

from Spurs fans. Phil who?

2. Chuck Cureau, San Antonio Spurs arena host chuckcureau.com

3. Jason Minnix, co-host of KTFM’s The Blitz sasportsstar.com

BEST STANDUP-UP COMIC

Winner: Cleto Rodriguez cletorodriguez.com

2. Lyn-Z Andrews lyn-z-andrews-entertainmentproductions.square.site

3. Bobby Smith IV instagram.com/bsmittycomedy

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

Winner: Ray “Tattooedboy” Scarborough tattooedboy.com

2. Meghan Fest instagram.com/meghan.fest

3. Jennye Stubblefield jennyestubblefield.com

“Tattooedboy”

Courtesy Photo / Ray “Tattoedboy” Scarborough

Best of SA Finalists | People

BEST AESTHETICIAN

• The Injection Room

• The Lash Doctor

• Wax Aesthetics

• Jazxaesthetics Luxury Skin Studio

• Summer Lee Miloro

BEST ALL-TIME SPURS PLAYER

• Tim Duncan

• Manu Ginobili

• David Robinson

• Tony Parker

• Dennis Rodman

BEST ATTORNEY

• Law Office Of Jesse Hernandez

• The Hicks Law Firm

• Thomas J. Henry

• Law Office of John G. Perez Jr.

• Law Office of Joseph Acevedo

• The Law Office of Jonathan Watkins

BEST BURLESQUE TROUPE

• Haus of Erotique

• Pastie Pops Burlesque Revue

• Crème De La Crème Cabaret

• Stars and Garters

BEST CHEF

• Tim McDiarmid

• Jason Dady

• Laurent Réa

• Gilbert De La Paz

• Tatu Herrera

BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST

• Rey Lopez

• Jalen McKee-Rodriguez

• Jeremy Sarten

• Sasha Wengler

• Robert Salcido

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

• Dr. Emily Fridlington

• Dr. Mobolaji Opeola

• Dr. Nicole M. Owens

• Dr. Jesse Fike

• Dr. Cynthia Villanueva Ramos

BEST DRAG PERFORMER

• Kristi Waters

• Anita Verga

• Tencha La Jefa

• Pinche Villa

• Ira Descent

• Hunsen Abequeer

• Duva Lynn

BEST INSTAGRAM INFLUENCER

• Kristi Waters

• Puro Pinche SA

• Law Office Of Jesse Hernandez, The Texas Chancla

• Rey Lopez

• BootlegFoodReview

• Siempre San Antonio

• Saving With Christina

BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY

• Kristi Waters

• Rey Lopez

• Kris Laguana

• Lyn-Z Andrews

• BootlegFoodReview

BEST LOCAL CLOTHING DESIGNER

• Dakota Whitney

• Hunsen Abequeer

• Austin Alegria

• Limatus Bespoke

• Couleur + Blindé by Anthony Ryan

BEST LOCAL FILMMAKER

• DW Goodloe aka Dat Mayne DeeWayne

• Jose Raul Corres

• Kayla Whittaker

• Patty Corres

• Trance Muter Media

BEST LOCAL POET

• Andrea ‘”Vocab”” Sanders

• Ethan Berry

• Rashaad Strong

• Glo Miles

• Faith Janee

• Dalia Gulca

BEST LOCAL RADIO SHOW

• Billy Madison Show

• The Urban Suite

• The Blitz with Jason & Joe

• Morning Session with JJ Lopez and Kory Cook

• The Mike Taylor Show

BEST MASCOT

• Spurs Coyote

• Cowboy Cash

• Henry the Puffy Taco

• Rowdy The Roadrunner

• Ballapeno

BEST METEOROLOGIST

• Alex Garcia

• Sarah Spivey

• Adam Caskey

• Jeanette Calle

• Justin Horne

BEST NEWS ANCHOR

• Isis Romero

• Steve Spriester

• Niccole Caan

• David Chancellor

• Larry Ramirez

• Steve Spreister

BEST PET GROOMER

• Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa

• Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming San Antonio

• For The Love Of Dogs Pet Boutique & Grooming

• Shayla’s TopKnotch Grooming

• Pet Town

• The PetStylist

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

• Julián P. Ledezma

• JoJoDancer Photography

• D&A Photography

• Galindo & Son Photography & Photobooths

• Saige Thomas Photography

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

• Dr. Manuel Lopez

• San Antonio Plastic Surgery Institute

• Dr. Wendie Grunberg - Alluring

Aesthetics

• Dr. Constance Barone

• Dr. Earl Ferguson

BEST PODCAST

• Kickin’ It! with the Texas Chancla

• Scary Not Scary Podcast

• Good Morning Darlings!

• The Chuck Vans Show

• How Yoga Changed My Life

BEST POLITICIAN

• Ron Nirenberg

• Joaquin Castro

• Jalen McKee-Rodriguez

• Michael Travis Stevens

• Tommy Calvert

BEST REAL ESTATE BROKER

• Jamie Zapata

• Malouff Realty

• Redbird Realty - Selma eXp Realty

• Xsellence Realty

BEST REALTOR

• MarkAnthony Ball

• Rueben Hernandez-Valdez

• John Wilkins, Redbird Realty

• Kasandra Alicea

• Brianna Salinas

BEST SPORTS PERSONALITY

• Gregg Popovich

• Chuck Cureau

• Jason Minnix

• Larry Ramirez

BEST STAND-UP COMIC

• Cleto Rodriguez

• Lyn-Z Andrews

• Bobby Smith IV

• Tori Pool

BEST VISUAL ARTIST

• Ray ‘”Tattooedboy”” Scarborough

• Meghan Fest

• Jennye Stubblefield

• Velvet La Vamp

• Kustom Kate

Best of SA | Shopping

BEST ADULT STORE

Winner: Sexology Institue

707 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 487-0371 sexologyinstitute.com

Paddles, nighties and lube — oh, my. This Southtown spot has all most folks need for a naughty evening and then some. And we’re not just talking adult toys and sexy attire but instructional classes on subjects such as fellatio and sexy selfie-taking. Locally owned and operated, the Sexology Institute is a haven for all, from those completely comfortable in their sexy skin to those still getting acquainted with their erotic identities. If you’re a bit shy, don’t worry: the entire staff is trained on how to help even the most demure San Antonian get their freak on in the safest, most satisfying way.

2. Shades of Love

300 W. Bitters Road, Suite 150 (210) 494-3006 shadesoflove.com

3. Love Shack Boutique Multiple locations theloveshackboutique.com

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Winner: Karolina’s Antiques 1709 Blanco Road (210) 731-9787 karolinasantiques.com

2. Grey Moon Vintage 2202 Broadway greymoon.online

3. The Junction Antiques

1704 Blanco Road (210) 273-3439 facebook.com/thejunctionsanantonio

BEST ARTISAN MARKET

Winner: Brick at Blue Star 108 Blue Star (210) 262-8653 brickatbluestar.com

We are your blank canvas — where your ideas and vision will come alive,” the management of Brick at Blue Star promises on the space’s website. And that’s a pretty good summation of the gathering space’s appeal. Thanks to its Blue Star location, Brick’s Sunday Art Market offers an artisan shopping experience that gives a variety of local artist and

Brick at Blue Star

craftspeople a chance to show wares in an environment accessible to both visitors and residents. Periodic Saturday markets introduce themes, ranging from pop-up pulgas to showcases for artisans who specialize in spooky items. Throw in a bar offering wine and a surprisingly deep selection of craft beer, and you’ve got a perfect excuse to browse away a weekend afternoon while supporting local creators.

2. The Eagle’s Nest of San Antonio 1235 Basse Road (210) 354-7343

facebook.com/thehealingartsfestivalandmarket

3. SA Local Market 115 N. Main Ave. salocalmarket.com

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

Winner: Bike World (Purchased by Trek since voting)

Multiple locations bikeworld.com

2. Blue Star Bike Shop 1414 S. Alamo St. (210) 858-0331 bluestarbikeshop.com

3. Level Up Bike Shop 1802 E. Commerce St. #101 (210) 505-7686 levelupbikeshop.com

BEST BOOK STORE

Winner: Half Price Books

Multiple locations hpb.com

Although this year’s runners up certainly have a leg up when it comes to signings and author events, it’s clear San Antonio readers love a bargain — and the Half Price Books chain has delivered just that for more than half a century. In addition to the expected well-thumbed genre paperbacks, each of the Dallas-based chain’s stores includes an array of other selections ranging from cookbooks to history to art. A wide selection of comics, music and gifts augments the offerings. Despite the chain’s continued expansion — now at more than 120 shops in 17 states — Half Price’s outlets still maintain a funky, homespun appeal that makes it feel like one is shopping at a family-owned business. As part of the company’s commitment to education, teachers and librarians get a year-round 10% discount and each

store holds an annual drive to collect children’s books to create “Half Pint Libraries” at nonprofit organizations and schools in the communities where it operates.

2. Nowhere Bookshop 5154 Broadway (210) 640-7260 nowherebookshop.com

3. The Twig Book Shop 306 Pearl Parkway, Suite 106 (210) 826-6411 thetwig.com

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

Winner: Red McCombs Ford West 7111 NW Loop 410 (833) 711-9378 mccombsfordwest.com

2. North Park Lexus of San Antonio 611 Lockhill Selma Road (210) 308-8900 northparklexus.com

3. Ancira Winton Chevrolet 6111 Bandera Road (210) 681-4900 ancirachev.com

Courtesy Photo / Brick at Blue Star

Best of SA | Shopping

Hogwild Records

BEST CBD SHOP

Winner: Bee’s Wellness Cafe

3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102 (210) 836-8141

beeswellnesscafe.com

There’s no shortage of CBD retailers eager to evangelize for the hemp derivative. Owner Brook “Blazey Bee” Richie prides herself in being a CBD evangelist who’s done her research. While combating health issues with various forms of CBD, she discovered that the products’ quality varied greatly and that many retailers were unable to recommend appropriate dosages. As a result, her business samples CBD and hemp products from across the country to ensure quality, according to an online statement. What’s more, she and her family put the products they carry through rigorous testing. In addition to informed opinions on CBD, the cozy retail spot prides itself in offering a wide array of wellness options, including cold-pressed juices made daily and classes in breath work, reiki and yoga.

2. Natural Goods

1802 E. Commerce St. (210) 257-8546 naturalgoodstx.square.site

3. CBD Pros

19179 Blanco Road #111 (210) 462-1434

cbdprosusa.com

BEST CHILDREN’S STORE

Crib & Kids

1309 N. Loop 1604 W. #106 (210) 764-2742 cribandkids.com

2. Fox & Tots

502 Embassy Oaks, Suite 109 (210) 502-0004 foxandtots.com

3. Bambinos 4940 Broadway, Suite 120 (210) 824-7676 bambinosboutique.com

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Winner: Defiant Boutique 11858 Wurzbach Road (512) 710-9099 defiantboutique.com

Navigating brick-and-mortar retail amid the e-tail landscape can be an unrewarding and risky prospect — especially if your concept doesn’t have a point of view. Billed as a “women’s clothing and accessory boutique for the trendy young adult,” Defiant goes beyond offering a smartly curated assortment of casual yet stylish day and evening wear by offering shoppers a sense of community. In addition to being a key member of Elysia Collective Co. — which comprises 20 women-owned San Antonio businesses — Defiant builds community through

Sip & Shop events with discounts, snacks and libations. Plus it even donates a portion of its proceeds to area nonprofits. In keeping with the Barbie fashion fever leading up to one of this summer’s most anticipated movies, Defiant has assembled a pretty-in-pink collection inspired by the American icon — complete with ribbed tanks, crop tops, minidresses and platform slides.

2. Fox & Tots

502 Embassy Oaks, Suite 109 (210) 502-0004 foxandtots.com

3. Beauty Blvd Boutique

8811 Adams Hill Drive (210) 685-4724

beautyblvd.xyz

BEST COMIC BOOK/GAME

SHOP

Winner: Black Potion

1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 101 (210) 369-8750

facebook.com/blackpotionsatx

Category newcomer Black Potion is the place your mom would have sent you so she could reclaim her dining room table from your gamer friends — assuming, of course, you were still living at home by the time you were old enough to purchase adult beverages. San Antonio’s only tabletop gaming tavern has something for geeky enthu-

siasts of all types — card games, board games, fantasy role-playing games. The availability of craft beer, craft wine and non-alcoholic beverages makes the sessions all the more lively. Serious campaigners can reserve private rooms, and Black Potion hosts special events including themed film screenings and improv performances. Gifts for that special nerd in your life round out a package unique in the Alamo City — and probably long overdue given our city’s abundance of adult gamers.

2. Heroes & Fantasies

Multiple locations heroesandfantasies.com

3. Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy Multiple locations dlair.net

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

Winner: Too Good To Be Threw 13413 San Pedro Ave. (210) 340-2422

toogoodsa.com

2. Home Consignment Center 17603 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 130 (210) 558-3968

thehomeconsignmentcenter.com

3. Otra Vez Couture Consignment 4222 McCullough Ave. (210) 826-0606

otravezconsignment.com

Jace Gertz

Best of SA | Shopping Traders Village

BEST FARMERS MARKET

Winner: Pearl Farmers Market 303 Pearl Parkway (713) 805-0745 atpearl.com

2. The Market at Shavano Park 900 Saddletree Court (210) 799-0176 facebook.com/ themarketatshavanopark

3. Mission Marquee Plaza Farmers & Artisans Market

3100 Roosevelt Ave. (210) 207-2111 missionmarquee.com

BEST FLEA MARKET

Winner: Traders Village 9333 SW Loop 410 (210) 623-8383 tradersvillage.com

The concept of the “flea market” is commonly attributed to the French term marché aux puces — a spot where shoppers might unwittingly purchase an actual flea snuggled up in a preloved item. While shoppers are much more likely to pick up a flea, puce or pulga from the two runners-up in this category — both of which we can highly recommended — Traders Village offers a modern-day market experience sure to enliven your weekend with family-friendly fun. Encompassing a staggering 100 acres populated by more than 1,000 vendors, the sprawling grounds pack in everything from clothing and electronics to tools and home decor — not to mention festival fare and a mini-amusement park featuring classic rides and games.

2. Bussey’s Flea Market 18738 I-35 N., Schertz (210) 651-6830 busseysfm.com

3. Mission Open Air Market 707 Moursund Blvd. (210) 923-8131 dev.missionopenairmarket.com

BEST FLOWER SHOP

Winner: Bell Flor 845 Isom Road (210) 987-4699 bell-flor.com

2. Fantastic Flowers

2266 SW 19th St.

(210) 682-5155 fantasticflowerssanantonio.net

3. No. 9 Floral 1701 Blanco Road (210) 232-4471 no9floralandgifts.com

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Winner: Home Consignment Center 17603 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 130 (210) 558-3968 thehomeconsignmentcenter.com

2. Period Modern 4347 McCullough Ave. (210) 902-1217 periodmodern.com

3. San Antonio Furniture Finders 1805 Blanco Road (210) 803-1900 safurniturefinders.com

BEST HOME DECOR STORE

Winner: Feliz Modern 101 W. Olmos Drive (210) 622-8364 felizmodern.com

The rainbow-bright dream child of married business partners Ginger and Mario Diaz, Feliz Modern has mastered something that’s tricky to achieve: giving grown-ass adults that infectious feeling of being a kid in a candy store. Since its launch in 2017, the aptly dubbed “home of happy” has expanded via two successful spin-offs at Pearl, the sweets- filled Feliz Modern Pop and the grown-up housewares emporium Rancho Diaz. While all three shops stock decor, the Olmos Park flagship is brimming with celebratory fare — from embroidered Fiesta napkins to cheery garlands and flower arrangements sprouting from mini disco balls. A perennial go-to for gifts, Feliz Modern also does an admirable job repping San Antonio creatives and currently offers smartly priced prints by local artists including Kelly O’Connor and Natalie Trinidad.

2. Home Consignment Center 17603 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 130 (210) 558-3968 thehomeconsignmentcenter.com

3. Chica Verde 2314 San Pedro Ave. chicaverde.net

BEST LIQUOR STORE

Winner: Twin Liquors Multiple locations twinliquors.com

2. Pig Liquors 519 S. Presa St. (210) 226-6465 instagram.com/pigliquors

3. Don’s & Ben’s Multiple locations donsandbens.com

BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT

Winner: BarbacoApparel barbacoapparel.com

Since its 2014 launch as a side hustle between friends — with unlikely roots in an educational publishing company — BarbacoApparel has built its initial concept of “puro Tex-Mex T-shirts” into a hyper-local export sold at stores across Texas (with Feliz Modern and Whole Earth Provisions among the heavy hitters). Designed by Alamo City native Nydia Huizar in collaboration

with a tight, talented crew that also includes her husband Matthew Contreras, BarbacoApparel’s greatest hits orbit around local food culture — from the text-only classic “Bean & Cheese” to a neon-inspired version of the Fiesta fave chicken on a stick and a study-worthy “Periodic Table of Tacos.” But dig a little deeper into the BarbacoApparel canon and you’ll find more esoteric gems — including a would-be lotería card starring local urban legend the Donkey Lady, graphic celebrations of San Antonio street names, and nostalgic tributes to the bygone grocery store chain Handy Andy and the sparsely populated mall formerly known as Crossroads. Smart, fun and undeniably quirky, the homegrown company’s wares — which also include totes, stickers, pins, prints and magnets — make ideal gifts for locals in the know, homesick Texpats, even yourself.

2. Twang twang.com

3. Salsa De Leon salsadeleon.com

Courtesy Photo / Traders Village

BEST MOTORCYCLE SHOP

Winner: Caliente HarleyDavidson

Best of SA | Shopping Grey Moon Vintage

7230 NW Loop 410 (210) 681-2254 calienteharley.com

2. Dream Machines of San Antonio 12241 San Pedro Ave. (210) 463-9090 dreammachinesofsanantonio.com

3. Schoffer Brothers Motorcycles 3119 Fredericksburg Road (210) 735-7737 facebook.com/schofferbros

BEST MUSIC INSTRUMENT STORE

Winner: Alamo Music Center Multiple locations alamomusic.com

2. Hermes Music 754 NW Loop 410 (210) 366-0362 hermesmusic.com

3. Robot Monster Guitars 2102 McCullough Ave. (210) 320-1710 instagram.com/robotmonsterguitars

BEST PET BOUTIQUE/PET SUPPLIES

Winner: Fine Whines & Lickers Dog Bar and Spa 300 W. Bitters Road (210) 245-0519 fwldogbar.com

2. For The Love Of Dogs Pet Boutique & Grooming 2815 N. Loop 1604 E., Suite 111 (210) 265-3611 fortheloveofdogstx.com

3. The Waggery 1112 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 444-9140 thewaggerysatx.com

BEST PLACE TO GET A PIÑATA

Winner: Amols’ Party and Fiesta Favors 227 Fredericksburg Road (210) 227-1457 amols.com

For more than 70 years, San Antonians have stocked up at Amols’ Party and Fiesta Favors when decorating for San Antonio’s annual citywide party, and piña-

tas are one of the shop’s specialties. If you’re looking for knock-off piñatas that resemble popular characters from kids’ film franchises, this probably isn’t your place, since the retailer doesn’t appear eager to tangle with Disney’s legal department. Even so, Amol’s packs in quite a variety, ranging from kid-friendly bunny rabbits, burros and unicorns to more adult-appropriate margarita glasses, cowboy boots and chili peppers. Beyond the full-size piñatas suitable for whacking with a stick, the veteran retailer offers plenty of small varieties that make great Fiesta decor. And what’s not to love about being able to stock up on all your other party decorating needs — and then some — when it comes time to pick up your piñata.

2. Fiesta at North Star 102 W. Rector Drive (210) 801-9900 alamofiesta.com

3. Piñata Time Multiple locations instagram.com/pinatatimesa

BEST PLANT NURSERY

Winner: Rainbow Gardens Multiple locations rainbowgardens.biz

2. Milberger’s Landscaping and Nursery 3920 N. Loop 1604 E. (210) 497-3760 milbergernursery.com

3. Shades of Green 334 W. Sunset Road (210) 824-3772 shadesofgreensa.com

BEST RECORD STORE

Winner: Hogwild Records 1824 N. Main Ave.

(210) 733-5354 facebook.com/hogwildrecords

2. Southtown Vinyl 1112 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 231-0512 southtownvinyl.tuneportals.com

3. Brainwave Records 1651 Woodlawn Ave, Unit B (210) 459-9336 brainwaverecordstore.com

BEST SMOKE SHOP

Winner: Smokerz Paradize Multiple locations smokerzparadize.com

2. Hazel Sky Smoke Shop Multiple locations hazelskysmokeshop.com

3. Smoker’s Galaxy Multiple locations smokersgalaxy.com

BEST THRIFT STORE

Winner: Texas Thrift Multiple locations buythrift.com

With more than 30 years’ experience under its belt and five San Antonio stores, it’s easy to see why the Texas Thrift chain keeps racking up wins in this category. The Texas-based business’ local outlets are spacious and well-organized, plus product turnover — a key draw in any kind of second-hand retail operation — is frequent. Senior Tuesdays and Military Wednesdays offer qualifying shoppers 30% discounts, while weekly color tag sales offer savings of up to 50%. The chain’s regularly updated Instagram page even provides updates on special discounts and new fashion finds at its outlets.

2. Boysville Auxiliary Thrift Store 307 W. Olmos Drive (210) 826-2195 boysvillethriftstore.com

3. Thrift City 6804 Huebner Road (210) 547-0300 thriftcityllc.com

BEST VINTAGE SHOP

Winner: Grey Moon Vintage 2202 Broadway greymoon.online

According to the space and astronomy news site Universe Today, the grey areas of the moon we can see from Earth represent an amalgamation of oxygen, silicon, magnesium, iron, calcium and aluminum. Fittingly, the compact, award-winning San Antonio fixture Grey Moon Vintage honors its namesake by venturing beyond retro apparel to offer crystals, candles and even metaphysical accoutrements. Run by the married duo of Natalie Medina and Colin Bass, Grey Moon conjures the spirit of old-school Americana down to its very digs: a thoughtfully restored 1969 Avion Travelcade trailer parked at the Shops at Broadway News. As an extension of its constantly evolving stock of decades-spanning duds, the beloved vintage destination also maintains Grey Moon Grails, a T-shirt-centric offshoot that celebrates the worn and weathered alongside the quirky and collectible.

2. Hello Tallulah 1912 Fredericksburg Road (210) 286-8146 hellotallulah.com

3. The Thrift Thru Vintage 2021 San Pedro Ave., Suite 1 instagram.com/thethriftthru

Courtesy Photo / Grey Moon Vintage

Best of SA Finalists | Shopping

BEST ADULT STORE

• Sexology Institute

• Shades of Love

• Love Shack Boutique

• Adult Megaplex

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

• Karolina’s Antiques

• Grey Moon Vintage

• The Junction Antiques

• Craftiques Mall

BEST ARTISAN MARKET

• Brick at Blue Star

• The Eagle’s Nest of San Antonio Healing Arts Center

• SA Local Market

• Victoria’s Black Swan Inn

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

• Bike World (Now Trek)

• Blue Star Bike Shop

• Level Up Bike Shop

• Crossroad Bikes

• Small Planet eBikes

BEST BOOK STORE

• Half Price Books

• Nowhere Bookshop

• The Twig Book Shop

• Heroes & Fantasies

• Cheever Books

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

• McCombs Ford West

• North Park Lexus of San Antonio

• Ancira Winton Chevrolet

• Gunn Honda

• Audi North Park

BEST CBD SHOP

• Bee’s Wellness Cafe & Juicery

• Natural Goods

• CBD Pros USA

• CBD American Shaman DeZavala

• Mr. Farmacist - a CBD and Kratom Shop

BEST CHILDREN’S STORE

• Crib & Kids

• Fox & Tots

• Bambinos

• Cotton On Kids La Cantera

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

• Defiant Boutique

• Fox & Tots

• Beauty Blvd Boutique

• Dollface Den

• Elizabeth’s Boutique

BEST COMIC BOOK/GAME SHOP

• Black Potion

• Heroes & Fantasies

• Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy

• Alien Worlds

• Court Of Gamers

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

• Too Good To Be Threw

• Home Consignment CenterSan Antonio

• Otra Vez Couture Consignment

• Second Looks

• Crescent Moon Music & Collectibles

• Moss Designer Consignment

BEST FARMERS MARKET

• Pearl Farmers Market

• The Market at Shavano Park

• Mission Marquee Plaza Farmers & Artisans Market

• The Downtown Dog Market

• Garden Ridge Market Days

BEST FLEA MARKET

• Traders Village

• Bussey’s Flea Market

• Mission Open Air Market

• The Market at Shavano Park

• Eisenhauer Market

BEST FLOWER SHOP

• Bell Flor

• Fantastic Flowers

• No.9 Floral

• The Floral Basket

• Karen’s House of Flowers & Custom Creations

• Bulverde Blooms

BEST FURNITURE STORE

• Home Consignment CenterSan Antonio

• Period Modern

• San Antonio Furniture Finders

• The Rustic Modern Boutique

• Christian’s Furniture

BEST HOME DECOR STORE

• Feliz Modern

• Home Consignment Center - San Antonio

• Chica Verde

• The Rustic Modern Boutique

• Rancho Diaz

BEST LIQUOR STORE

• Twin Liquors

• Pig Liquors

• Don’s & Ben’s

• Alamo City Liquor

BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT

• BarbacoApparel

• Twang

• Salsa de Leon

• Casa Chocolates

• Arte Mia Crafts

BEST MOTORCYCLE SHOP

• Caliente Harley-Davidson

• Dream Machines of San Antonio

• Schoffer Brothers Motorcycles

• Cowboy Harley-Davidson of Alamo City

• The Motorcycle Shop

BEST MUSIC INSTRUMENT STORE

• Alamo Music Center

• Hermes Music San Antonio

• Robot Monster Guitars

• Lark Guitars

• Jeff Ryder Drum Shop

BEST PET BOUTIQUE/PET SUPPLIES

• Fine Whines & Lickers Dog Bar and Spa

• For The Love of Dogs Pet Boutique & Grooming

• The Waggery

• Ruff Bites

• Mike’s Dog Store

BEST PLACE TO GET A PIÑATA

• Amols’ Party and Fiesta Favors

• Fiesta at North Star

• Piñata Time

• Mercado Rita’s

BEST PLANT NURSERY

• Rainbow Gardens

• Milberger’s Landscaping and Nursery

• Shades of Green

• Fanick’s Garden Center

• Evergreen Garden Center

BEST RECORD STORE

• Hogwild Records

• Southtown Vinyl

• Brainwave Records

• Friends of Sound Records

• Janie’s Record Shop

• Del Bravo Record Shop

BEST SMOKE SHOP

• Smokerz Paradize

• Hazel Sky Smoke Shop

• Smokers Galaxy

• Bee’s Wellness Cafe & Juicery

• Supernova Smoke Shop

• Mr. Farmacist - a CBD and Kratom Shop

BEST THRIFT STORE

• Texas Thrift

• Boysville Auxiliary Thrift Store

• Thrift City - San Antonio

• Spare Parts Center for Creative Reuse

• The Vaulti

BEST VINTAGE SHOP

• Grey Moon Vintage

• Hello Tallulah

• The Thrift Thru

• The Junction Antiques

• Divine Sunshine Collective

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST ART GALLERY

Winner: McNay Art Museum

6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 824-5368 mcnayart.org

The McNay Art Museum’s gorgeous grounds, old San Antonio feel, world-class permanent collection and varied exhibitions arguably make it the Alamo City’s most accessible place to experience visual art. After all, how many other facilities, here or anywhere else, can claim to be operated from a 1929 Spanish revival mansion while offering access to works by masters such as Paul Cézanne, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Diego Rivera and Mary Cassatt, to name just a few. The McNay’s centuries-spanning collection of European and American art includes access not only to a breathtaking array of paintings but a sculpture garden that unleashes the imaginations of visitors young and old. The museum’s free general admission from 4-9 p.m. Thursdays and noon-5 p.m. on the first Sunday of every month also makes it a favorite for students, families or anyone on a budget.

2. San Antonio Museum of Art 200 W. Jones Ave. (210) 978-8100 samuseum.org

3. Contemporary at Blue Star 116 Blue Star (210) 227-6960 contemporarysa.org

BEST BARRE STUDIO

Winner: Studio 360 12403 Nacogdoches Road, Suite 104 (210) 314-1409 facebook.com/ Studio360fitnessandnutrition

2. Smart Barre Multiple locations smartbarrebody.com

3. The Program 7140 Oaklawn Drive (210) 687-6009 facebook.com/ theprogramprogressisaprocess

BEST BOWLING ALLEY

Winner: Bowlero San Antonio Multiple locations bowlero.com

2. Bandera Bowling Center

6700 Huebner Road (210) 523-1716 banderabowlingcenter.com

3. The Lanes at Oak Hills 7330 Callaghan Road (210) 560-2695 lanesatoakhills.com

BEST CITY PARK

Winner: Brackenridge Park 3700 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 207-7275 brackenridgepark.org

2. Phil Hardberger Park 13203 Blanco Road and 8400 NW Military Highway (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org

3. Hemisfair 434 S. Alamo St. (210) 709-4750 hemisfair.org

BEST COMEDY CLUB

Winner: Laugh Out Loud

Magik Theatre

Comedy Club

618 NW Loop 410 (210) 541-8805 improvtx.com/sanantonio

The Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club combines an intimate setting with big-name standup. And when we say big-name, we aren’t kidding. Recent shows have included Adam Conover, Michael Rapaport and local favorite Anjelah Johnson-Reyes, and the schedule is full-up through the rest of the summer. The room’s relatively modest size can mean a shoulder-to-shoulder experience for some shows, but it also makes the venue feel more alive, even when hosting lesser-known comics. Local talent gets in on the act with the SATX Showcase Mic every Tuesday. The weekly performances highlight a mix of seasoned jokesters and those stepping onto a comedy club stage for the first time.

Inside Black Potion 1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 102 (210) 369-8750 housepartyimprov.com

3. Upstage Comedy Lounge 4441 Walzem Road (210) 231-0474 upstagecomedylounge.net

BEST COMMUNITY THEATER

Winner: Magik Theatre 420 S. Alamo St. (210) 227-2751 magiktheatre.org

2. The Public Theater of San Antonio 800 W. Ashby Place (210) 733-7258 thepublicsa.org

3. House Party Improv Inside Black Potion 1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 102 (210) 369-8750 housepartyimprov.com

2. House Party Improv

Courtesy Photo / Magik Theatre

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST DOG PARK

Winner: Phil Hardberger Park

13203 Blanco Road and 8400 NW Military Highway (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org

It’s all about San Antonio’s canines and their human companions at Phil Hardberger Park’s two dog parks. “Hoomans” can sit on stone benches or picnic tables while the dogs play and explore under the low-slung canopy of live oaks. Separate water fountains keep each species hydrated, and folks are good about picking up after their POO-ches with ample waste bags and receptacles. Small dogs aren’t an afterthought either. They have access to as many structures as the big ones — and many are set aside in areas exclusive to pint-sized pups.

2. Hops & Hounds

13838 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 592-9400 hopsandhoundsllc.com

3. McAllister Park 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 207-7275 sanantonio.gov/parksandrec

BEST DRAG SHOW

Winner: Paramour 102 9th St., Floor 4 (210) 417-6559 instagram.com/paramourbar

2. The Bonham Exchange 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com

3. Bottoms Up Diva Dinner

1827 NE Loop 1604 (210) 718-9320 facebook.com/divadinner

BEST EVENT VENUE

Winner: Aztec Theatre 104 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 812-4355 theaztectheatre.com

2. Paper Tiger 2410 N. St. Mary’s St. papertigersatx.com

3. Majestic Theatre

224 E. Houston St. (210) 226-3333 majesticempire.com

Aztec Theatre

BEST FAMILY ATTRACTION

Winner: San Antonio Zoo

3903 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 734-7184

sazoo.org

It may be one of the oldest family-friendly attractions in the city, but the San Antonio Zoo works hard to keep things fresh with new features and events. Monthly yoga sessions near the flamingos twist visitors into various animal-inspired poses. Bring a Friend Free days encourage introductions to first timers. And the Will Smith Zoo School, a naturebased preschool, satisfies the curiosity of children who may be the next great wildlife conservationists. The San Antonio Zoo also continues to upgrade its facilities and animal spaces thanks to an $80 million spending program over the past eight years. As part of a new $67 million phase of its master plan, gorillas will return with a top-notch

new habitat. Plus, a new event center is in the works.

2. Six Flags Fiesta Texas 17000 I-10 West (210) 697-5050 sixflags.com/fiestatexas

3. Morgan’s Wonderland 5223 David Edwards Drive (210) 495-5888 morganswonderland.com

BEST FITNESS STUDIO

Winner: Amor Cycling Studio + Fitness Multiple locations amorcyclingstudio.com

2. Alamo City Fitness 1120 N. Mesquite St. (210) 485-8331 facebook.com/alamocityfitness

3. The Program 7140 Oaklawn Drive (210) 687-6009 facebook.com/ theprogramprogressisaprocess

BEST HOSPITAL

Winner: Methodist Hospital 7700 Floyd Curl Drive (210) 575-4000 sahealth.com/locations/ methodist-hospital

2. University Hospital 4502 Medical Drive (210) 358-4000 universityhealthsystem.com/locations/ university-hospital

3. North Central Baptist Hospital 520 Madison Oak Drive (210) 297-4000 baptisthealthsystem.com/locations/ detail/north-central-baptist-hospital

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST MED SPA/PLACE TO GET PAMPERED

Winner: Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics

19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 504 (210) 600-3335 magnoliamedskin.com

BEST MED SPA

2. The Injection Room 1010 S. Flores St., Suite 117 (210) 245-1420 theinjectionroom.com

3. 4Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions (Tie) 555 E. Basse Road, Suite 206 (210) 239-1624 fyinstitute.com/location/san-antonio

3. Nova Aesthetics (Tie) 6483 Blanco Road (210) 348-9164 novaaesthetics.com

BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED

2. Massage Therapy by Krissy 10615 Perrin Beitel Road, Suite 301 (210) 391-7588 massagetherapybykrissy.com

3. Beauty Haus SA 119 Heiman St., Suite 300 (210) 600-3373 jonabelles-beauty.com

BEST MOVIE THEATER Winner: Alamo Drafthouse Park North 618 NW Loop 410 (210) 677-8500 drafthouse.com/san-antonio/theater/ park-north

2. Santikos Palladium 17703 I-10 West (210) 664-3348 santikos.com/san-antonio/palladium

3. Santikos Embassy 13707 Embassy Road (210) 664-3348

santikos.com/san-antonio/embassy

Alamo Drafthouse

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST MURAL

Winner: Selena by Alan Calvo Alamo Candy

1149 W. Hildebrand Ave. (210) 734-8672 alamocandy.com

There are certainly larger murals in the Alamo City, not to mention murals by higher-profile artists. But Alan Calvo’s colorful and dynamic depiction of Selena on the side of the Alamo Candy building appeals to our puro San Anto feels. This city loves the Queen of Tejano, and Calvo’s use of Aztec imagery and symbols as the singer’s backdrop makes it clear he’s holding her up as part of a history and culture that spans far longer than the 23 years she had on this planet. It helps, no doubt, that Calvo had a strong connection to the subject matter. He’s the son of popular Spanish-language radio personality Alberto Alegre, who regularly interacted with Tejano personalities, including the Quintanilla family. “It’s a part of my life,” Calvo told Texas Public Radio last

year, “so it’s like ‘wow,’ I need to portray this in my artwork.”

2. The Spirit of Healing by Jesse Treviño

Christus Children’s Hospital 333 N. Santa Rosa St. (210) 704-2011 christushealth.org/locations/ childrens-hospital

3. I Am Here: Vaccinate/Vacunate by Kim Bishop

Jefferson Bodega 1005 Donaldson Ave. (210) 735-0900 instagram.com/jeffersonbodega

BEST MUSEUM

Winner: Witte Museum 3801 Broadway (210) 357-1900 wittemuseum.org

2. McNay Art Museum 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 824-5368 mcnayart.org

3. San Antonio Museum of Art 200 W. Jones Ave. (210) 978-8100 samuseum.org

BEST NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION

Winner: Pride Center San Antonio 1303 McCullough Ave., Suite 160 (210) 370-7743 pridecentersa.org

With Texas’ LGBTQ+ community under attack from politicians in the state capital and facing renewed harassment from other forces of intolerance, the Pride Center San Antonio’s services are needed now more than ever. The nonprofit offers an array of services including free STI testing, gender-affirmation services, safe-zone training and group therapy sessions along with its Youth Empowerment with Pride conference and summer camp. A variety of support groups, from Sober Over the Rainbow recov-

Selena by Alan Calvo

ery meetings to a monthly trans-allies meeting, offer opportunities for community members to grow, nurture and make valuable connections.

2. God’s Dogs Rescue godsdogsrescue.org

3. disABILITYsa 5727 I-10 West (210) 704-7262 disabilitysa.org

BEST PATIO

Winner: Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen 103 E. Jones Ave. (210) 201-5595 elsewheretexas.com

2. La Fonda On Main 2415 N. Main Ave. (210) 733-0621 lafondaonmain.com

3. The Good Kind 1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

Jace Gertz

Best of SA | Around Town

San Antonio Zoo

BEST PET ADOPTION

Winner: San Antonio Pets Alive!

Multiple locations (210) 370-7612 sanantoniopetsalive.org

2. San Antonio Humane Society 4804 Fredericksburg Road (210) 226-7461 sahumane.org

3. God’s Dogs Rescue godsdogsrescue.org

BEST PET BOARDING

Winner: Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa

Multiple locations (210) 495-3647

lucysdoggydaycare.com

2. Camp Bow Wow

Multiple locations

campbowwow.com

3. Pup Pup & Away 5722 Kenwick St. (210) 899-1688 puppupandawaysa.com

BEST PIERCING STUDIO

Winner: Buddha Box Studios 5337 Glen Ridge Drive (210) 647-2929 buddha-box.com

2. Twisted Tattoo 1031 Patricia Drive, Suite 100 (737) 257-0313 twistedtattootx.com

3. Ink & Iron Tattoos & Piercings 11415 West Ave. (210) 595-1115 inkandirontattooing.com

Courtesy Photo / San Antonio Zoo

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH / BEST PLACE TO WATCH A MOVIE OUTSIDE

Winner: The Pearl 303 Pearl Parkway (210) 212-7260 atpearl.com

BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH

2. The River Walk thesanantonioriverwalk.com

3. The Shops at La Cantera 15900 La Cantera Parkway (210) 582-6255 theshopsatlacantera.com

BEST PLACE TO WATCH A MOVIE OUTSIDE

2. Stars & Stripes Drive-In 1178 Kroesche Lane, New Braunfels (830) 620-7469 driveinusa.com/nb

3. Mission Marquee Plaza

3100 Roosevelt Ave. (210) 207-8612 missionmarquee.com

BEST PLACE TO WORK

Winner: Parkhurst NuVision

LASIK Eye Surgery

9725 Datapoint Drive, Suite 106 (210) 571-7235 sanantonio-lasik.com

2. H-E-B

Pearl

Multiple locations heb.com

3. Law Office Of Jesse Hernandez Multiple locations jessehernandezlaw.com

BEST PLAYGROUND

Winner: Morgan’s Wonderland 5223 David Edwards Drive (210) 495-5888 morganswonderland.com

It has been 13 years since developer Gordon Hartman first opened the doors of Morgan’s Wonderland, the city’s first all-access park to people of all abilities. While it’s more than a theme park than a playground, the equipment throughout provides unlimited fun for all children, include those in wheelchairs or with other special needs. They organization has trademarked the phrase “ultra-accessible” and applies it to the whole experience, which has grown to include Morgan’s Inspiration Island splash park. There’s now a Morgan’s Wonderland Camp with horses and accessible activities along with a sports park that accommodates a wide range of activities in setups where anyone can take part.

2. Yanaguana Garden, Hemisfair 434 S. Alamo St. (210) 709-4750 hemisfair.org

3. Phil Hardberger Park 13203 Blanco Road and 8400 NW Military Highway (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org

BEST PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE

Winner: The Pillars Christian Learning Center Multiple locations thepillarsclc.com

2. Pre-K 4 SA – North Education Center 3635 Medical Drive (210) 206-2800 prek4sa.com

3. Will Smith Zoo School 103 Tuleta Drive (210) 686-5606 willsmithzooschool.org

BEST SALSA DANCE STUDIO

Winner: Salsa On2 School 4902 Golden Quail, Suite 102 (917) 379-0134 salsaon2school.com

2. Studio 360 12403 Nacogdoches Road, Suite 104 (210) 314-1409 facebook.com/ Studio360fitnessandnutrition

3. Semeneya Dance Studio 8123 Broadway (210) 651-2328

facebook.com/mysemeneya

BEST SPA Winner: Nova Aesthetics 6483 Blanco Road (210) 348-9164 novaaesthetics.com

Nova Aesthetics bills itself as a full-service medical spa and skincare clinic that offers nonsurgical cosmetic enhancements, anti-aging treatments, weight-loss programs and laser hair removal. Customer reviews praise staff members for their friendliness and professionalism, including their ability to explain treatments and put visitors at ease. Beyond that, the spa itself draws raves for its cleanliness, beauty and sense of luxury. When folks are looking for a spa visit, they’re looking to feel good while undertaking their transformation. From the votes of Current readers, Nova Aesthetics appears to check that box.

2. 4Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions 555 E. Basse Road, Suite 206 (210) 239-1624 fyinstitute.com/location/san-antonio

3. Beauty Haus SA 119 Heiman St., Suite 300 (210) 600-3373 jonabelles-beauty.com

Courtesy Photo / Pearl

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MIGUEL DANIEL JAMES ANGEL MAURICIO

Best of SA | Around Town

BEST TANNING SALON

Winner: Palm Beach Tan Multiple locations palmbeachtan.com

2. The Glo Studio 1595 S. Main St., Suite 123, Boerne (830) 249-0904 txglostudio.com

3. Sunday Tan (907) 947-2882 sundaytansa.com

BEST TATTOO SHOP

Winner: Twisted Tattoo 1031 Patricia Drive, Suite 100 (737) 257-0313 twistedtattootx.com

Twisted Tattoo arose from humble beginnings, according to its online history: founder James Delgado began tattooing while homeless to make money. Obviously, that trade has since served him well. Delgado’s shop prides itself on being friendly, professional and drug-free, and the portfolios of its 16 staff artists display their ability to cover a wide variety of styles from colorful traditional work and blackand-gray portraits to cosmetic work and coverups. Twisted Tattoo also offers piercings, access to an installment pay plan and has a full-time staffer devoted to laser tattoo removal. In a clear nod to the art form’s expanding appeal, it even offers lidocaine injections that “provide up to two hours of pain-free tattooing.”

2. Ink Couture Tattoos

Multiple locations inkcouturetattoos.com

3. Nostalgic Ink Tattoo Studio 3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 103 (210) 404-9988 nostalgicink.com

BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

Winner: San Antonio River Walk thesanantonioriverwalk.com

2. The Pearl 303 Pearl Parkway (210) 212-7260 atpearl.com

3. The Alamo 300 Alamo Plaza  (210) 225-1391  thealamo.org

Tower of the Americas

BEST URBAN LEGEND

Winner: The Ghost Tracks 2902 Shane Road

2. Menger Hotel 204 Alamo Plaza (210) 223-4361 mengerhotel.com

3. La Llorona

BEST URGENT CARE CENTER

Winner: Texas MedClinic Multiple locations texasmedclinic.com

2. Methodist Hospital 7700 Floyd Curl Drive (210) 575-4000

sahealth.com/locations/ methodist-hospital

3. NextCare Urgent Care Multiple locations nextcare.com

BEST VIEW Winner: Tower of the Americas 739 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. (210) 223-3101 toweroftheamericas.com

2. The Moon’s Daughters Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com

3. La Cantera Resort & Spa

16641 La Cantera Parkway (210) 558-6500 lacanteraresort.com

BEST YOGA STUDIO

Winner: Black Swan Yoga — Downtown 914 E. Elmira St., Suite 201 (210) 570-6555 blackswanyoga.com

2. House of RhythOM 7302 Louis Pasteur Drive (210) 902-8337 houseofrhythom.com

3. Black Swan Yoga — Vineyard 1201 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 105 (210) 570-6555 blackswanyoga.com

Best of SA Finalists | Around Town

Best Art Gallery

• McNay Art Museum

• San Antonio Museum of Art

• Contemporary at Blue Star

• Creative Eye

• AnArte Gallery

Best Barre Studio

• Studio 360

• Smart Barre & Pilates

• The Program

• Pure Barre

• TruFusion San Antonio

• Smart Barre & Pilates

Best Bowling Alley

• Bowlero San Antonio

• Bandera Bowling Center

• The Lanes at Oak Hills

• Bowlero Thousand Oaks

• Astro Super Bowl

Best City Park

• Brackenridge Park

• Phil Hardberger Park

• Hemisfair

• McAllister Park

• Woodlawn Lake Park

Best Comedy Club

• Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club

• House Party Improv

• Upstage Comedy Lounge

• ComedySportz San Antonio

• Blind Tiger Comedy Club

Best Community Theater

• Magik Theatre

• The Public Theater of San Antonio

• House Party Improv

• The Overtime Theater

• Second Act Productions

Best Dog Park

• Phil Hardberger Park

• Hops & Hounds

• McAllister Park

• Pearsall Park

• Maverick Park

Best Drag Show

• Paramour

• Bonham Exchange

• Bottoms Up Diva Dinner

• The Starlighter

• Rey Lopez Entertainment

Best Event Venue

• Aztec Theatre

• Paper Tiger

• Brick at Blue Star

• Tomatillos Restaurant & Bar

• Ivy Hall

Best Family Attraction

• San Antonio Zoo

• Six Flags Fiesta Texas

• Morgan’s Wonderland

• Witte Museum

• SeaWorld San Antonio

Best Fitness Studio

• Amor Cycling Studio + Fitness

• Alamo City Fitness

• The Program

• Studio 360

• MADabolic La Cantera

Best Hospital

• Methodist Hospital

• University Hospital

• North Central Baptist Hospital

• Brooke Army Medical Center

• Christus Santa Rosa Hospital

- Westover Hills

Best Med Spa

• Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics

• The Injection Room

• Nova Aesthetics

• 4Ever Young Anti Aging

Solutions

• Marcos Medical Care

Best Movie Theater

• Alamo Drafthouse Park

North

• Santikos Palladium

• Santikos Embassy

• Santikos Casa Blanca

• Flix Brewhouse

Best Mural

• Selena by Alan Calvo

• The Spirit of Healing by Jesse Treviño

• I Am Here: Vaccinate/Vacunate by Kim Bishop

• Victor Wembanyama by Nik

Soupé

• Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar by INTI

• Reb Bull Fiesta Mural 2018 by Los Otros Murals

Best Museum

• Witte Museum

• McNay Art Museum

• San Antonio Museum of Art

• The DoSeum

• Ruby City

Best Nonprofit Organization

• Pride Center San Antonio

• God’s Dogs Rescue

• disABILITYsa

• Radical Registrars

• Midgard Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Best Patio

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• La Fonda on Main Street

• The Good Kind

• Tomatillos Restaurant & Bar

• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

Best Pet Adoption

• San Antonio Pets Alive!

• San Antonio Humane Society

• God’s Dogs Rescue

• Animal Defense League of Texas

• SNIPSA

Best Pet Boarding

• Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa

• Pup Pup & Away

• Tail Waggerz Day Care and Boarding

• Camp Bow Wow

• For The Love of Dogs Pet Boutique & Grooming

Best Piercing Studio

• Buddha Box Studios

• Twisted Tattoo

• Ink & Iron Tattoos & Piercings

• Dandyland

• Presidential Ink & Body Modifications

Best Place to Get Pampered

• Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics

• Massage Therapy by Krissy

• Beauty Haus SA

• The Injection Room

• Pampered Wellness Recovery Home

• Cera Studio

Best Place to People Watch

• The Pearl

• San Antonio River Walk

• The Shops at La Cantera

• Hemisfair

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• Blue Star Arts Complex

Best Place to Watch a Movie Outside

• The Pearl

• Stars & Stripes Drive-In

• Mission Marquee Plaza

• Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

Best Place to Work

• Parkhurst NuVision LASIK

Eye Surgery - San Antonio

• H-E-B

• Law Office Of Jesse

Hernandez

• Einstein Moving Company

• Sea Island Shrimp House

Best Playground

• Morgan’s Wonderland

• Yanaguana Garden, Hemisfair

• Phil Hardberger Park

• Pearsall Park

• Raymond Rimkus Park

Best Preschool/Daycare

• The Pillars Christian Learning Center

• Pre-K 4 SA - North Education Center

• Will Smith Zoo School

• Mi Casa Child Center

• Discovery World Learning Center

• Bilingual Child Academy

Best Salsa Dance Studio

• Salsa On2 School

• Studio 360

• Semeneya Dance Studio

• Salsa Lessons in San Antonio

Best Spa

• Nova Aesthetics

• Beauty Haus SA

• Massage Therapy by Krissy

• Turtle Dragon Acupuncture & Herbs

• 4Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions

Best Tanning Salon

• Palm Beach Tan

• The Glo Studio

• Sunday Tan

• Bare Sunless

• Anew You Medical Aesthetics and Total Wellness Center

Best Tattoo Shop

• Twisted Tattoo

• Ink Couture Tattoos

• Nostalgic Ink Tattoo Studio

• Mr Lucky’s Tattoo

• Buddha Box Studios

• Presidential Ink & Body Modifications

Best Tourist Attraction

• San Antonio River Walk

• The Pearl

• The Alamo

• Six Flags Fiesta Texas

• San Antonio Zoo

Best Urban Legend

• The Ghost Tracks

• Menger Hotel

• La Llorona

• Donkey Lady

• Victoria’s Black Swan Inn

Best Urgent Care Center

• Texas MedClinic

• Methodist Hospital

• NextCare Urgent Care

• The Emergency Clinic Alamo Heights

• The Emergency Clinic by the Pearl

• Injury and Health Institute

Best View

• Tower of the Americas

• The Moon’s Daughters

• La Cantera Resort & Spa

• Paramour

• Hays Street Bridge

• Alteza Residences

Best Yoga Studio

• Black Swan Yoga - Downtown

• House of RhythOM

• Black Swan Yoga - Vineyard

• Pure Prana Path Yoga & Wellness

• The Union Fitness & Fun • Park Oaks Studio

• Honest Soul Yoga & Pilates

SPORTS

Best of SA | Nightlife

BEST BAR/SUNDAY FUNDAY

Winner: Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

103 E. Jones Ave. (210) 201-5595 elsewheretexas.com

Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen has been a perennial favorite of Current readers since it opened in 2020 and started making the lists. The patio overlooks the San Antonio River and has plenty of the games people have come to expect for outdoor hangouts, Jenga and corn hole among them. Come at the right time and there could even be acrobats or a troupe dancing with fire. The bar itself features an impressive tap list of local and Texas beers and ciders on draft. That variety continues when it comes to beer and seltzers in cans. The Elsewhere Punch is also a favorite in the eight months of South Texas summer, along with margaritas and other frozen drinks. Bar eats include a hearty menu of burgers and chicken sandwiches, offered with sides including waffle fries and Parmesan cheese-dusted brussels sprouts roasted to perfection.

BEST BAR

2. The Esquire Tavern 155 E. Commerce St. (210) 222-2521 esquiretavern-sa.com

3. Bar Loretta 320 Beauregard St. (210) 757-3607 barloretta.com

BEST SUNDAY FUNDAY

2. The Good Kind 1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

3. The Friendly Spot 943 S. Alamo St. (210) 224-2337 thefriendlyspot.com

BEST BAR FOOD

Winner: The Esquire Tavern 155 E. Commerce St. (210) 222-2521 esquiretavern-sa.com

Sure, The Esquire Tavern is known for its craft cocktails, rumors of being haunted and almost comically long bar. But readers are clearly enamored with its menu of bar eats that are as delicious as

Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

they are hearty. The brisket fries, fiery housemade pickles and hefty bison burger are all standouts. However, the Tavern’s chili salt fries are particularly addictive, especially after a couple of beers from the draft rail, which includes suds from local breweries such as High Wheel, Kunstler and Viva. Ask for a patio table for riverside views, or post up at the well-worn bar for the full experience as you nosh.

2. The Lost Bar & Grill 12730 NW Military Highway (210) 437-4873 thelostbarandgrill.com

3. Bar Loretta 320 Beauregard St. (210) 757-3607 barloretta.com

BEST BAR GAMES/SPORTS BAR

Winner: Slackers Sports Bar Multiple locations instagram.com/slackersbarsa

BEST BAR GAMES

2. Black Potion 1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 101 (210) 369-8750 facebook.com/BlackPotionSATX

3. Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen 103 E. Jones Ave. (210) 201-5595 elsewheretexas.com

BEST SPORTS BAR

2. The Bend Sports Bar 7730 Bandera Road (210) 290-8138 facebook.com/ATB4FUN

3. McIntyre’s Multiple locations mcintyresusa.com

BEST BARTENDER

Winner: Vikki Buchanan, The Bonham Exchange 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com

Vikki Buchanan is not only general manager of the Bonham Exchange, she’s also a fury behind the bar. Known for her Wonder Woman-themed regalia, customer-friendly demeanor and colorful language, the bartending vet brings speed and creativity to the job, which likely explains why she also had this category sewn up on last year’s Best of San Antonio list. With her signature long tresses and kerchief headwear, the Boerne High School grad became a TikTok sensation in 2021 for the rapid-fire creation of colorful rainbow drinks. Cheers!

2. Michael Phillips, The Moon’s Daughters Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com

3. Donnie Schievelbein, Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon 2335 N.W. Military Highway (210) 348-1513 thirstyhorse.net

BEST BLOODY MARY

Winner: The Good Kind 1127 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 801-5892 eatgoodkind.com

2. Artisan Distillery & Craft Bar 402 Austin St. (210) 896-5070 artisancraftbar.com

3. Maverick Texas Brasserie 710 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 973-6050 mavericktexas.com

BEST COCKTAIL BAR AND COCKTAILS

Winner: Bar 1919 1420 S. Alamo St. (210) 227-1420 bar1919.com

2. The Moon’s Daughters Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com

3. The Esquire Tavern 155 E. Commerce St. (210) 222-2521 esquiretavern-sa.com

Jace Gertz

BEST COUNTRY BAR

Best of SA | Nightlife Black

Potion

Winner: Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

2335 NW Military Highway (210) 348-1513

thirstyhorse.net

2. The Lonesome Rose

2114 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 455-0233

thelonesomerose.com

3. Cowboys Dancehall

3030 NE Loop 410 (210) 646-9378

cowboysdancehall.com

BEST CRAFT BEER SELECTION

Winner: Black Potion

1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 101 (210) 369-8750

facebook.com/BlackPotionSATX

There are no taps at Black Potion, a gaming tavern in the Deco District, but the geek-friendly gathering space makes up for that with a great array of canned and bottled craft beers, imports and ciders. The owner of the year-old establishment handpicks the beers so they match a wide-array of tastes for those coming in to play board games or set off on a Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Consider the options the best thing next to a flagon of dwarven ale, if you will. You’ll find 45 U.S. beers, including plenty of local favorites, along with 14 German and UK classics, Fuller’s London Pride and Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout among them. The selection changes regularly to keep customers coming back for another quest.

2. The Hoppy Monk

1010 N. Loop 1604 East (210) 545-3330

thehoppymonk.com

3. Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

103 E. Jones Ave. (210) 446-9303 elsewheretexas.com

BEST DANCE CLUB/GAY BAR

Winner: The Bonham Exchange

411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219

bonhamexchange.com

It’s no easy feat to remain a hip, glitzy and relevant nightspot for more than four decades, but that sums up the Bonham Exchange. For all the changes that have swirled around it, the downtown nightspot, which opened in 1981 inside a former German athletic club, has remained a fixture of San Antonio’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. Thanks to its banging sound system, top-notch DJs and college student-attractive drink specials, it’s also remained one of the city’s premier spots to dance the night away. The owners used downtime from the pandemic to complete a 16-month restoration project that’s only added to the luster. Little doubt the Bonham continues to draw new crowds because of its mission statement, which in part promises for it to be a “safe space for everyone to be who they want to be and have a great time without fear of criticism.”

BEST DANCE CLUB

2. Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

2335 NW Military Highway (210) 348-1513

thirstyhorse.net

3. Cream Cocktail Lounge 527 W. Hildebrand Ave. (210) 973-2253

cream-cocktail-bar.business.site

BEST GAY BAR

2. Paramour 102 9th St., Floor 4 (210) 417-6559

paramourbar.com

3. Pegasus 1402 N. Main Ave.

(210) 299-4222 pegasussanantonio.com

BEST DIVE BAR

Winner: The Bang Bang Bar 119 El Mio Drive (210) 320-1187 thebangbangbartx.com

The Bang Bang Bar’s dark interior, casual vibes and underground rock focus certainly qualify it as a dive bar. But the spot’s secondhand furniture, tastefully arranged seating areas and retro chic make it much more. The Bang Bang invites you to stay awhile and sample a variety of craft cocktails and classics. Vinyl spins on the turntable when a band isn’t rocking out onstage. Pool, Skee-Ball and electronic darts keep patrons occupied in a side game room. Check out the bar’s website for events including weekend brunch.

2. Pegasus 1402 N. Main Ave. (210) 299-4222

pegasussanantonio.com

3. El Luchador 622 Roosevelt Ave. (210) 272-0016

facebook.com/luchadorbarsa

BEST DRINK SPECIALS/CHEAP DRINKS

Winner: Brass Monkey 2702 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 480-4722

facebook.com/brassmonkeytx

2. Sparky’s Pub 1416 N. Main Ave. (210) 320-5111

sparkyspub.com

3. The Lighthouse Lounge 1016 Cincinnati Ave. facebook.com/thelighthouselounge

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Winner: LadyBird Beer Garden 447 W. Hildebrand Ave. #105 (210) 733-3613

ladybirdbeergarden.com

With its spacious patio, lush greenery, twinkling string lights and extensive beer list, LadyBird Beer Garden offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for brew-centric socializing. The menu also features a wide range of craft brews, including plenty from local and regional breweries. Of course, great happy hour deals make the atmosphere feel all the more relaxed and the beer all the more refreshing. LadyBird offers Yellow Rose IPA and Tecate in cans as well as select pints for $3 from 2-6 p.m. Monday through Friday. House and frozen cocktails run just $6 during that time. Add live music and hearty snack options, and this Monte Vista-area spot becomes a must-visit destination for those seeking a budget-minded gathering spot for afternoon or post-work drinks.

2. Hanzo 7701 Broadway, Suite 124 (210) 826-1488 instagram.com/hanzobarsa

3. Slackers Sports Bar Multiple locations instagram.com/slackersbarsa

Courtesy Photo / Black Potion

Best of SA | Nightlife

BEST HOOKAH BAR

Winner: Shisha Cafe

5500 Babcock Road #101 (210) 694-4800 shishacafesa.com

2. Habibi Cafe

5306 Broadway (210) 437-0242 facebook.com/heightshookahcafesa

3. Hookah Harem

6862 Ingram Road (210) 455-9499 hookahharem.com

BEST HOTEL BAR

Winner: The Moon’s Daughters Thompson San Antonio –Riverwalk 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com

The glamorous Thompson Hotel opened to much fanfare in 2021, boasting 20 floors of luxury, including terrace bar The Moon’s Daughters. With show-stopping 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, an extensive chef-prepared menu and seemingly endless drink offerings, it’s easy to see why our readers voted it Best Hotel Bar. Business Jet Traveler magazine named the breathtaking spot one of the top five restaurants in Texas, giving props to eatery’s views, ambiance and Mediterranean-inspired fare, ranging from decadent hazelnut and lemon-butter octopus to a build-your-own mezze plate.

2. Menger Bar

The Menger Hotel 204 Alamo Plaza (210) 223-4361 mengerhotel.com

3. Ocho Hotel Havana

1015 Navarro St. (210) 222-2008 havanasanantonio.com

BEST ICE HOUSE

Winner: The Friendly Spot 943 S. Alamo St. (210) 224-2337 thefriendlyspot.com

2. Wurzbach Ice House 10141 Wurzbach Road (210) 877-2100

wurzbachicehouse.com

3. The Dakota East Side Ice House 433 S. Hackberry St. (210) 375-6009 thedakotasa.com

BEST KARAOKE BAR

Winner: Dad’s Karaoke

2615 Mossrock Drive (210) 267-5703 facebook.com/dadskaraoke

2. Pegasus 1402 N. Main Ave. (210) 299-4222 pegasussanantonio.com

3. El Luchador 622 Roosevelt Ave. (210) 272-0016 facebook.com/luchadorbarsa

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

Winner: Freetail Brewing Co. Multiple locations (210) 625-6000 freetailbrewing.com

Long-running Freetail Brewing Co. isn’t exactly concerned about pumping out brews that follow along conventional style guidelines, although its lineup includes expected styles such as IPAs, pale ales, imperial stouts and fruity wheat beers in the Berliner style. Instead, these folks focus on making beer that tastes good and creating brews for every taste. There’s also a fair amount of experimentation too. Recent selections include with a beer using ingredients that also are food for the brewery’s namesake Mexican Freetail bat, while another includes the puro San Antonio flavors of pineapple and spicy chamoy. The original brewpub at Loop 1604 and Northwest Military Drive is set up for making smaller batch beers and also carries the year-round and seasonal products from the Presa Street production brewery. Both locations now feature Freetail’s signature pizzas.

2. Man Overboard Brewing Co. 1203 Camden St. (210) 290-8474 instagram.com/manoverboardbrewingco

3. Künstler Brewing 302 E. Lachapelle St. (210) 688-4519 kuenstlerbrewing.com

BEST MARGARITAS/ MICHELADAS

Winner: Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com

Rosario’s is know for it funky ambiance and distinctive take on south-of-the-border food. However, the drinks also kick serious ass, as evidenced by the Southtown institution’s win in both the Margarita and Michelada categories. Both drinks are beloved in San Antonio, meaning any bar staff better come with its A-game — and the top-notch crew here clearly does. The margarita menu is both creative and well-conceived. The Pica Pica is a favorite thanks to its combination of cucumber and jalapeno, which provides a bracing aftertaste. Rosario’s Micheladas also win raves for striking

the right balance between earthy, sweet and spicy. Plus they work well Modelo Especial, which is always on draft.

BEST MARGARITAS

2. El Mirasol Multiple locations elmirasolsa.com

3. Tu Asador 8055 West Ave. #125 (210) 530-4595 tuasadorsatx.com

BEST MICHELADAS

2. Social Spot 930 Broadway (210) 263-9009 facebook.com/socialspotSATX

3. The Friendly Spot  943 S. Alamo St. (210) 224-2337 thefriendlyspot.com

Rosario’s

Nina Rangel

WE GREATLY APPRECIATE YOUR LOVE & SUPPORT! hope to see you soon

Best of SA | Nightlife

Tiger

BEST MUSIC VENUE

Winner: Paper Tiger

2410 N. St. Mary’s St. papertigersatx.com

With its 2015 opening, Paper Tiger raised the bar for live music on the St. Mary’s Strip, especially of the touring variety. A smart, hip and diverse booking policy rules here, meaning the venue could be hosting hardcore punk one night, hip-hop the next. Bigger than a club but smaller than a theater, Paper Tiger also occupies a sweet spot for catching bands with a buzz on their way up — you know, before you have to lose intimacy by seeing them in seated theaters or arenas. Little surprise that this locally owned gem has bagged another win in this category.

2. Aztec Theatre

104 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 812-4355 theaztectheatre.com

3. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org

BEST NEW BAR

Winner: The Cottage Irish Pub 3810 Broadway (210) 463-9111 thecottageirishpub.com

It didn’t take long for San Antonians to embrace The Cottage Irish Pub’s inviting atmosphere and Emerald Isle charm. In addition to a hefty wooden bar that looks like it could have been salvaged from a Dublin public house and several cozy lounging nooks, The Cottage features front and back patios, more than 10 beers on tap and an extensive menu that draws from owners Phil and Gina Bentley’s relationship with Ireland. Since it opened

last fall, The Cottage has also become a haven for folk and Celtic music lovers. Live music takes center stage several nights a week.

2. Black Potion

1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 101 (210) 369-8750 facebook.com/BlackPotionSATX

3. Bésame 511 E. Grayson St. besame210.com

BEST WINE BAR

Winner: Little Death 2327 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 264-6472 littledeathwine.com

Located at the bow of the North St. Mary’s Strip, Little Death is effortlessly chic, featuring dim lighting, a low hum of conversation and — most importantly — an extensive and diverse range of vino options, including plenty of rare finds. Upping the ante, the cozy spot also serves up shareable food items such as tapas, cheese plates and conservas, which can be enjoyed inside or out on picnic or bistro tables. Fresh oysters are a Wednesday special. An Airstream trailer turned food truck also features guest chefs offering a variety of fares. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly and always happy to offer recommendations. Plus, the prices are reasonable, considering the quality of the wine and experience.

2. Copa Wine Bar 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 704 (210) 495-2672

thecopawinebar.com

3. High Street Wine Co. 302 Pearl Parkway #104 (210) 908-9144

highstreetwine.com

Oscar

Paper

Best of SA Finalists | Nightlife

BEST BAR

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• The Esquire Tavern

• Bar Loretta

• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

• Hugman’s Oasis

• Porta Rossa Bar

• Lucy Cooper’s Texas Ice House

• The Roo Pub

BEST BAR FOOD

• The Esquire Tavern

• The Lost Bar & Grill

• Bar Loretta

• Picks Bar

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

BEST BAR GAMES

• Slackers Sports Bar

• Black Potion

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• Camp 1604

• Chicken N Pickle

BEST BARTENDER

• Vikki Buchanan

• Michael Phillips

• Donnie Schievelbein

• Jeremiah Anderson

• Matt Taylor

BEST BLOODY MARY

• The Good Kind

• Artisan Distillery & Craft Bar

• Maverick Texas Brasserie

• Time-Out Sports Bar

• Porta Rossa Bar

BEST COCKTAIL BAR AND COCKTAILS

• Bar 1919

• The Moon’s Daughters

• The Esquire Tavern

• Artisan Distillery Craft Bar

• Hugman’s Oasis

BEST COUNTRY BAR

• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

• The Lonesome Rose

• Cowboys Dancehall

• SA Country Saloon

• Hills & Dales Ice House

BEST CRAFT BEER SELECTION

• Black Potion

• The Hoppy Monk

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• Big Hops

• 502 Bar

• The Dooryard

BEST DANCE CLUB

• Bonham Exchange

• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon

• Cream Cocktail Lounge

• Cowboys Dancehall

• Porta Rossa Bar

BEST DIVE BAR

• The Bang Bang Bar

• Pegasus

• El Luchador

• The Mix

• Boneheadz Sports Pub

BEST DRINK SPECIALS/CHEAP

DRINKS

• Brass Monkey

• Sparky’s Pub

• The Lighthouse Lounge

• Time-Out Sports Bar

• Joey’s

BEST GAY BAR

• Bonham Exchange

• Paramour

• Pegasus

• Sparky’s Pub

• Heat

BEST HAPPY HOUR

• LadyBird Beer Garden

• Hanzo

• Slackers Sports Bar

• Picks Bar

• Hugman’s Oasis

• The Good Kind

• Tiago’s Cabo Grille

BEST HOOKAH BAR

• Shisha Cafe

• Habibi Cafe

• Hookah Harem

• Amoré Bistro

• Alchemy Hookah

BEST HOTEL BAR

• The Moon’s Daughters

• Menger Bar

• Ocho

• Sternewirth

• Ambler Texas Kitchen

+ Cocktails

BEST ICE HOUSE

• The Friendly Spot

• Wurzbach Ice House

• The Dakota East Side Ice House

• Social Spot

• Lucy Cooper’s Texas Ice House

• Sanchez Ice House II

BEST KARAOKE BAR

• Dad’s Karaoke

• Pegasus

• El Luchador

• Zombies Bar

• One Pocha

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

• Freetail Brewing Co.

• Man Overboard Brewing Co.

• Künstler Brewing

• Weathered Souls Brewing Co.

• Free Roam Brewing Co.

• Second Pitch Beer Co.

BEST MARGARITAS

• Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

• El Mirasol

• Tu Asador

• Soluna

• Tiago’s Cabo Grille

• The Good Kind

BEST MICHELADAS

• Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar

• Social Spot

• The Friendly Spot Icehouse

• Pericos Mexican Cuisine

• Artisan Distillery Craft Bar

BEST MUSIC VENUE

• Paper Tiger

• Aztec Theatre

• Tobin Center for the Perform -

ing Arts

• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall

• Majestic Theatre

• Sam’s Burger Joint

• The Rustic

• The Espee

BEST NEW BAR

• The Cottage Irish Pub

• Black Potion

• Bésame

• Tokyo Cowboy

• Home Room

BEST SPORTS BAR

• Slackers Sports Bar

• The Bend Sports Bar

• McIntyre’s

• Pluckers Wing Bar

• Ricky Bobby’s Sports Bar

BEST SUNDAY FUNDAY

• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

• The Good Kind

• The Friendly Spot

• Bonham Exchange

• Picks Bar

• The Block SA

BEST WINE BAR

• Little Death

• Copa Wine Bar

• High Street Wine Co.

• Re:Rooted 210 Urban Winery

• Hands Down

• Stout’s Signature

Best of SA | Services

BEST BANK/CREDIT UNION

Winner: Frost Bank Multiple locations frostbank.com

Banks can be hard to love. But Current readers clearly have a crush on San Antonio-based Frost Bank. The 155-year-old financial institution has won 14 J.D. Power Awards for “Highest Customer Satisfaction with Consumer Banking in Texas,” which explains a lot. Beyond that, its customer service representatives are in-state, and they’re available 24/7. It’s clear Frost’s “based here, best here” history gives customers a lot to feel good about.

2. Lone Star National Bank

Multiple locations lonestarnationalbank.com

3. USAA Federal Savings Bank

Multiple locations

usaa.com

BEST BARBER SHOP

Winner: Townsend Barbershop

1014 Townsend Ave. (210) 473-2033

instagram.com/townsendbarbershop

Alamo Heights’ tiny Townsend Barbershop has just three chairs and two barbers, but it’s clearly got an outsized following. Owner Sweet Ayala and her hair-cutting compatriot Chris the Barber draw online raves for their skills with clippers and scissors. The shop’s intimate, old-time vibes also helps explain the loyalty of its customers. There’s no TV, and Ayala discourages cell phone conversations inside the small shop’s confines. The end result is a business that captures the feel of barbershops of old — a spot where folks can catch up and engage in camaraderie. “People like our laid-back vibe,” Ayala said. “We keep it true to the old barbershop way. Nobody talks about politics and religion. We’re just chill.”

2. Matador Men’s Grooming Multiple locations matadorgrooming.com

3. North Star Barber Shop Multiple locations northstarbarbershops.com

BEST CAR WASH

Winner: The Bubble Bath Car

Wash Multiple locations thebubblebathcarwash.com

2. Club Car Wash Multiple locations clubcarwash.com

3. New Shine Auto Bath & Detailing

1216 Hoefgen Ave. (210) 270-8218 facebook.com/newshinetx

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

Winner: Empowered Chiropractic + Massage 2101 West Ave. Suite 103 (210) 288-3771 empoweredcm.com

2. The Nest Chiropractic & Wellness Multiple locations (210) 323-2163 yoursanantoniochiropractor.com

3. Peterson Chiropractic 4230 Gardendale #201 (210) 864-5220 petersonchiropractic.org

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY

Winner: New Life Cosmetic Surgery and Wellness Center 117 Waterview Parkway, Boerne (830) 465-3224 newlifergv.com

New Life Cosmetic Surgery & Wellness Center’s services extend beyond nips and tucks. Dr. Daniel Lee is a certified cosmetic surgeon, but he’s also certified in family and an OB/GYN medicine. As a result, the doctor sees patients “from all over Texas” for hormone replacement therapy, according to New Life’s website. What’s more, Lee is dedicated to talking to patients about what they want to achieve, not just with their appearances but their overall health, the clinic notes.

2. Alamo Plastic Surgery

19016 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 240 (210) 670-5302 alamoplasticsurgery.com

3. Hill Country Plastic Surgery 9150 Huebner Road #162 (210) 658-3555 hillcountryplasticsurgery.com

Best of SA | Services

BEST CRYO THERAPY

Winner: CryoFit TPC Parkway 3111 TPC Parkway, Suite #117 (210) 467-5801 mycryofit.com

2. CryoFit Alamo Heights

6486 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 375-9087 mycryofit.com

3. Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas 809 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 375-5319 Sweatequitysa.com

BEST DENTIST

Winner: Legacy Dental SA 13205 George Road (210) 767-3562 legacydentalsa.com

Legacy Dental’s Dr. Brian L. Eck has been practicing in the Shavano Park and Castle Hills area since 1984, making him a trusted and familiar face. Legacy does general, restorative and preventive dentistry, but offers specialty services too, including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and even sleep apnea therapy. What’s more, Eck’s surgical training also allows him to do oral surgery and periodontal plastic surgery. Online reviews laud the practice for its friendly and compassionate staff and a focus on patient comfort during procedures.

2. Kara Tapangan, DDS, Sonterra Dental 255 E. Sonterra Blvd. #150 (210) 341-3222 sonterradentalcare.com

3. Great White Dental 2520 Broadway #102 (210) 468-3360 gwdentaltx.com

BEST DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

Winner: Sonterra DermatologyStone Oak 1314 E. Sonterra Blvd. #2201 210-981-3601 dermatologysanantonio.com

2. Dermatology Associates Of San Antonio - Derm SA Multiple locations dermsa.com

3. Dr. John Browning, MD, FAAD,

Culpepper Cleaners

FAAP, MBA - Texas Dermatology Multiple locations texasdls.com/dr-john-browning

BEST DRY CLEANER

Winner: Culpepper Cleaners

Multiple locations culpeppercleaners.com

Culpepper Cleaners has being serving San Antonio for more than seven decades, which helps explain readers’ endorsement of the family-owned business. With just three locations, Culpepper clearly isn’t the largest dry cleaning operation in the Alamo City, but online customer reviews praise it for consistently delivering good work and top-notch service. One longtime customer thanked staffers for their “cheerful, prompt and personal touch,” while another said they drive from outside Loop 1604 to “receive the quality service and smiles” from the Culpepper crew.

2. Oak Park Cleaners

Multiple locations oakparkcleaners.biz

3. Kraft Cleaners 355 West Josephine St. (210) 732-9731 kraft-cleaners.com

BEST HAIR SALON

Winner: Seventwenty Collective 4831 Fredericksburg Road (210) 348-9864 salonseventwenty.com

2. Bloom Salon + Studio 224 E. Olmos Drive (210) 462-1334 bloomsalon.studio

3. Moxie Hair Salon and Spa 1031 NE Loop 410 (210) 888-1778 moxiehairsalon09.com

BEST HVAC/AC

Winner: Air & Plumbing Today 3615 Tavern Oaks St. (210) 519-5959

airandplumbingtoday.com

2. Evenflow Home & Commercial Services 1547 W. Poplar St. (210) 941-3503 evenflowhomeservices.com

3. Air Cantu 419 Utopia Lane (210) 333-6838 aircantu.com

BEST IV HYDRATION

Winner: DRIP IV Lounge 1020 Navarro St. (210) 998-2348 dripivtx.com

2. CryoFit TPC Parkway 3111 TPC Parkway, Suite #117 (210) 467-5801 mycryofit.com

3. CryoFit Alamo Heights 6486 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 375-9087 mycryofit.com

Brandon Rodriguez

Best of SA | Services

BEST LASIK PROVIDER

Winner: Parkhurst NuVision

LASIK Eye Surgery

9725 Datapoint Drive, Suite 106 (210) 864-9540 sanantonio-lasik.com

2. Manrique Custom Vision Center

15900 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 20215 (210) 354-2020 manriqueeye.com

3. TLC San Antonio

434 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 3201 (210) 348-0265 tlcsanantonio.com

BEST MOVERS

Winner: Einstein Moving Company

3400 Nacogdoches Road, Suite 6 (210) 791-8563 einsteinmoving.com

Moving is one of life’s most stressful events — right behind divorce and the death of a loved one. Einstein Moving Co. works its ass off to eliminate that stress. The web is plastered with positive reviews about the care, courtesy, and reliability of the Einstein crews, which explains why so many Current readers are willing to let them worry about lugging that antique credenza upstairs. Einstein also participates in the Eden Reforestation Project, planting four trees for every move all its markets.

2. 3 Men Movers

Multiple locations

3menmovers.com

3. All My Sons Moving & Storage

Multiple locations (866) 726-1579 allmysons.com

BEST NAIL SALON

Winner: LA Romero Nails

12651 Vance Jackson Road #101 (512) 844-8534 laromero.business.site

Repeat winner LARomero has build a following based on owner GG Christopher’s artistry, creativity and strong color sense. Glitter, gems and customizable art are all part of the appeal. Indeed, Christopher has drawn praise

Seventwenty Collective

for being able to translate characters from movie franchises such as Toy Story and Mulan into nail art for clients. Beyond her creative touch, Christopher is certified master pedicurist who loves helping ensure her clients have strong and healthy nails. Online reviews rave about LARomero’s pedicures being the best in the city and leaving feet feeling “silky smooth.”

2. Glaze Nail Lounge 8318 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 549-6113 facebook.com/glazenaillounge

3. Weasel’s Nail Studio 2106 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 111, Unit 33

(210) 274-7297 salonsbyjc.com/salons/ weasels-nail-studio

BEST ORTHODONTIST

Winner: Texas Family Orthodontics

Multiple locations texasfamilyorthodontics.com

2. Braceland Office of Hulme

Orthodontics 4902 Golden Quail (210) 690-0662 hulmeortho.com

2. VK Orthodontics

Multiple locations

vkorthodontics.com

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

Winner: Big City Plumbing 4274 Gatecrest (210) 499-1010 bigcityplumbingsa.com

2. Smith & Sons Plumbing Services 2118 Mannix, Suite 102 (210) 338-0046 smithandsonstx.com

3. Air & Plumbing Today 3615 Tavern Oaks (210) 519-5959 airandplumbingtoday.com

Brandon Rodriguez

Best of SA | Services

BEST ROOFING

Winner: Roof Chiefs

18911 Hardy Oak Blvd. (210) 942-8162 roofchieftx.com

Most people know little to nothing about the roof over the heads — other than they want it not to leak. Online reviews for Roof Chiefs praise the company for being able to walk customers through the intricacies of replacing or repairing a roof, including taking care of the insurance claims. The company — which also offers gutters, siding and solar panel services — also racked up lots of customer compliments for being fast and friendly as well as cleaning up after a project.

2. Design Roofing & General Contractors

12227 Huebner Road, Suite 107 (210) 744-7500

design-roofing.com

3. Steel Nails Roofing & Construction (210) 749-9392 linkedin.com/in/ steel-nails-roofing-850602261

BEST SOLAR COMPANY

Winner: Solar Edge Pros 11010 Coachlight St., Suite 102 (210) 401-9030 solaredgepros.com

2. Design Solar & Greenstar Power 12227 Huebner Road, Suite 107 (210) 838-2174 design-solar.com

3. Roof Chiefs 18911 Hardy Oak Blvd. (210) 942-8162 roofchieftx.com

Solar Edge Pros

Facebook / Solar Edge Pros

Best of SA Finalists | Services

BEST BANK/CREDIT UNION

• Frost Bank

• Lone Star National Bank

• USAA Federal Savings Bank

• RBFCU - Broadway

• Security Service Federal Credit Union

BEST BARBER SHOP

• Townsend Barbershop

• Matador Men’s Grooming

• North Star Barber Shop

• Latin Flow Barber Shop y Boutique

• Tune Up ”The Manly Salon”

BEST CAR WASH

• The Bubble Bath Car Wash

• Club Car Wash

• New Shine Auto Bath & Detailing

• GO Car Wash

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

• Empowered Chiropractic + Massage

• The Nest Chiropractic & Wellness

• Peterson Chiropractic

• Cross Timbers Chiropractic

• Stratton Sport & Spine

BEST COSMETIC SURGERY

• New Life Cosmetic Surgery and Wellness Center

• Alamo Plastic Surgery - Dr. William Albright, M.D.

• Hill Country Plastic Surgery

• Dr. Robert N. Young, M.D., FACS

• Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas

BEST CRYO THERAPY

• CryoFit TPC Parkway

• CryoFit Alamo Heights

• Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas

• Restore Hyper Wellness

• Total Regen Whole Body Cryo

• iV Bars of San Antonio

BEST DENTIST

• Legacy Dental SA

• Kara Tapangan, DDS

• Great White Dental

• New Heights Dental & Braces

• Salado Creek Family Dental

BEST DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE

• Sonterra Dermatology - Stone Oak

• Dermatology Associates of San Antonio

• Dr. John Browning - Texas Dermatology

• Dermatology San Antonio

• Limmer Dermatology

BEST DRY CLEANER

• Culpepper Cleaners

• Oak Park Cleaners

• Kraft Cleaners

• True Green Dry Cleaners

• Everest Eco Cleaners

BEST HAIR SALON

• Seventwenty Collective

• Bloom Salon + Studio

• Moxie Hair Salon and Spa

• LOOK

• Elena Salon Studios

• Mane & Company

BEST HVAC/AC

• Air & Plumbing Today

• Evenflow Home & Commercial Services

• Air Cantu

• Air Texas

• Airesmith Inc.

BEST IV HYDRATION

• DRIP IV Lounge

• CryoFit TPC Parkway

• CryoFit Alamo Heights

• Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas

• Groov Wellness

BEST LASIK PROVIDER

• Parkhurst NuVision LASIK Eye Surgery

• Manrique Custom Vision Center

• TLC San Antonio

• Medical Center Ophthalmology Associates

• Castle Hills Eye Specialists

BEST MOVERS

• Einstein Moving Company

• 3 Men Movers

• All My Sons Moving & Storage

• Swift Movers

• Reliant Movers

BEST NAIL SALON

• LARomero

• Glaze Nail Lounge

• Weasel’s Nail Studio

• Feral Nails TX

• DidThat Hair and Nail Studio

• A Family Nails & Spa

BEST ORTHODONTIST

• Texas Family Orthodontics

• Braceland Office of Hulme

Orthodontics

• VK Orthodontics

• Pierson & Saunders OrthodonticsAlamo Ranch

BEST PLUMBING COMPANY

• Big City Plumbing

• Smith & Sons Plumbing Services

• Air & Plumbing Today

• Murray Plumbing

• PlumbSmart

BEST ROOFING

• Roof Chiefs

• Design Roofing & General Contractors

• Steel Nails Roofing & Construction

• Integrity Roofing & Siding

• Presidio Roofing Company of San Antonio

BEST SOLAR COMPANY

• Solar Edge Pros

• Design Solar & Greenstar Power

• Roof Chiefs

• Sunny Energy

• Orius Solar Care+

07.29

COMEDY

GEORGE LOPEZ

Singular Chicano comic George Lopez is returning to San Antonio for a weekend’s worth of laughs. Although a Los Angeles native, Lopez emerged as an Alamo City favorite for hilarious bits gleaned from his experience being raised by his grandmother and growing up in a working-class bilingual household. He later broke out nationally with the pioneering ABC family sitcom George Lopez, which later ran in syndication on Nick at Nite, becoming the favorite show of early-2000s children at sleepovers everywhere. He also hosted Lopez Tonight on TBS, the first Chicano-hosted late night talk show on an English-lan-

guage network, and will appear in this year’s upcoming superhero flick Blue Beetle as the titular hero’s tío. But Lopez isn’t just the Blue Beetle’s uncle. His gregariousness, talent for winning over crowds and often-bawdy humor qualify him for the title of America’s Uncle. $50.50 and up, 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St., (210) 226-3333, majesticempire.com. — Dean Zach

FRI | 07.28SAT | 07.29

COMEDY

PAUL REISER

Paul Reiser is a respected comedian and actor known for his portrayal of memorable — although not always likable — characters, including Mad About You’s Paul Buchman, Aliens’ dastardly Carter Burke, and more recently, Stranger Things’ Dr. Sam Owens. But his creative endeavors go further than that. Reiser’s also written, produced and engaged

SAT | 07.29SUN | 07.30

SPECIAL EVENT

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE GLOW PARTY

Monster trucks are coming. In case that wasn’t loud enough: MONSTER TRUCKS ARE COMING! They’re loud, they’re gigantic, they’re ready to do jumps, backflips, wheelies and corkscrews. Of course, they’re also ready to crush cars — and the competition. Plus, they’re designed to look like iconic Hot Wheels toys: the lineup of heavy hitters for this arena show includes Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Boneshaker, Bigfoot and the all-new Gunkster. Also look out for a special appearance from Arcticgon, the transforming car-eating dragon that breathes fire and frost,

in musical pursuits among the way. For his upcoming San Antonio performance, though, it will be all laughs as he returns to his roots as a stand-up — not that he ever left them behind. $30-$40, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club, 618 NW Loop

Courtesy Photo / LOL Comedy Club

Courtesy Photo / Majestic Theatre

Courtesy Photo / AT&T Center

and from the daredevil riders of the Hot Wheels Freestyle Motocross team. If that’s not enough, the arena will also hold a dynamic dance party, spectacular laser light shows and Hot Wheels toy giveaways to go along with the “Glow Party” theme. Guests can arrive early for the Crash Zone Pre-Show Party, where they can enjoy exclusive up-close, on-the-floor access to favorite monster trucks and even grab autographs from performers. $25-$60, 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday, AT&T Center, 1 AT&T Center Parkway, (210) 444-5000, attcenter.com. — DZ

SUN | 07.30

ART

PAPER TRAIL SAN ANTONIO

In celebration of art and the artistic process, Paper Trail San Antonio is returning for its eighth annual event. The gathering will host more than 40 artists and vendors representing a variety of artistic styles and mediums, featuring anything from screen prints and lithographs to stickers and zines. Beyond being just an art fair, Paper Trail is intended to celebrate art, creativity and the power of paper as a medium. Attendees will be able to purchase unique and affordable artworks while gaining insight into creators’ techniques and processes. Featured artists this year include illustrator Chris “Gemini Vato” Galaviz, designer and printmaker Anfisa Brewer of Dirty Bones Design Co. and cartoonist and illustrator Ashley Robin Franklin, among many others. Free, 11 a.m.7 p.m., The Rock Box, 1223 E. Houston St., papertrailsa.net. — CH

TUE | 08.01 -

TUE | 08.01

FILM

PRISIONEROS DE LA TIERRA

A historical hit in Argentine cinema, Prisioneros De La Tierra paints a vivid picture of the horrors of labor exploitation, complete with a volatile love triangle. The film was adapted from short stories by Horacio Quiroga, known for his ability to use the setting of the jungle, intertwined with elements of the supernatural and other oddities, to depict the human struggle. Its deeply human characters combined with the fiery plot makes for a riveting and introspective experience. Presented as part of this summer’s TPR Cinema Tuesdays series, the 1939 film will be screened at Santikos Northwest at the beginning of August. $12-$17, 7:30 p.m., Santikos Northwest, 7600 I-10 West, tpr.org. — Jace Gertz

Reminder:

Although live events have returned, the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us. Check with venues to make sure scheduled events are still happening, and please follow all health and safety guidelines.

Jaime Monzon

Janus Films

SUN | 08.06

FILM

SAN ANTONIO FILM FESTIVAL

For nearly three decades, the San Antonio Film Festival has been one of the key conduits for bringing the indie cinema scene to San Antonio. This year’s festival will include screenings at three locations across the city: the Tobin Center for Performing Arts (100 Auditorium Circle), Radius Center (106 Auditorium Circle #120) and Santikos Entertainment Palladium (17703 W. I-10 Frontage Road). Among the entries are 200-plus documentaries, indie films and shorts created by both local and international filmmakers. This year’s opening night kickoff is The Adults, a dramedy directed by Dustin Guy Defa and starring Michael Cera (Arrested Development, Person to Person), Hannah Gross (Infinite Summer, Joker) and Sophia Lillis (Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, IT). In addition to its plethora of screenings, the event will feature a Hollywood panel on which Academy Award-winning editor Paul Hirsch (Star Wars, Mission Impossible, Carrie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off) discusses the power of film editing, a daily VIP filmmaker’s lounge at the Radius Center and nightly parties at various locations. Although the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes mean that union members won’t be attending to promote their projects, at press time organizers said that overall festival programming is moving forward as planned. $8.99-$149, Various times and locations Tuesday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 6, (210) 885-5888, safilm.com.  — Macks Cook

SAT | 08.05

FILM

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2

The 2022 follow-up to 2020’s Sonic the Hedgehog is speeding into town for a free showing. In Sonic the Hedgehog 2, villain Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) returns to earth after his initial defeat by the titular hero. This time, he’s brought along new partner Knuckles (Idris Elba), and they’re causing chaos as they search for the Master Emerald. Sonic (Ben Schwartz) takes on the challenge to stop the dangerous duo from getting their hands on the source of ultimate power. Partnering with his new friend Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey), Sonic gets the chance to prove his ability and heroism. Audiences are encouraged to bring something comfy to rest on and treats to enjoy as they watch the film. Food trucks will be available for additional snacks, and pets are welcome. Free, 8:30 p.m., Mission Marquee Plaza, 3100 Roosevelt Ave., (210) 212-9373, slabcinema.com. — JG

COMEDY

TIM HEIDECKER: THE TWO TIMS

Initially gaining traction on Adult Swim’s Tim and Eric’s Awesome Show, Great Job! alongside his comedy partner Eric Wareheim, Tim Heidecker is much more than just one-half of a witty duo: he’s a musician and an intentionally bad stand-up comic. The “Two Tims” tour is a double-act

in which Heidecker showcases both his “No More Bullshit” character — where he performs as a narcissistic, inept standup comedian making his way through painfully unfunny material — and revealing his side as a sincere musician supported by The Very Good Band. The first half promises Heidecker in the way people usually know him, but the cheeky, character-playing Tim is a foil to the musician Tim, whose latest album High School presents earnest reflections on his youth and personal experiences. $39.50 and up, 8 p.m., Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, 226 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 226-3333, majesticempire.com. — Dalia Gulca

FRI | 08.04 -

SUN | 08.20

THEATER

MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG

The final show in the Public Theater’s 2022-23 season, Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along begins its stint at the Russell Hill Rogers Theater in early August. This seminal slice-of-life musical begins in 1976 at the premiere of big-shot filmmaker Franklin Shepard’s (Tyler Galindo) latest feature. Franklin ruminates with two longtime friends Charley Kringas (Isidro Medina III) and Mary Flynn (Kayla Hernandez Friend) about his disdain for the lavish Hollywood life he thought he always wanted. What follows is an intimate look at the past 20 years

in reverse order, ending on a note of irony as the trio — penniless but positively optimistic — embark on their journey to stardom. Nominated for the 1982 Tony Award for Best Original Score, Merrily We Roll Along is a beloved piece of Sondheim’s songwriting legacy. The master’s other critically acclaimed musicals include West Side Story, Sweeney Todd and Into the Woods. The production’s ornate two-story set, designed by Overland Partners Architects, is the firm’s first live theater set since 2002. $15-$45, 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, The Public Theater of San Antonio, 800 W. Ashby Place, (210) 733-7258, thepublicsa.org. —

Caroline Wolff

Couretsy Photo / SAFILM

Paramount Pictures

Courtesy Photo / Empire Theatre Mia Isabella Aguirre NYC Photography

Friday, July 28

Braid

It’s been a big summer for San Antonio and touring acts playing old-school emo. The latest of those, Braid, is touring in support of the 25th anniversary re-release of its album Frame & Canvas, a record that has all the hallmarks of the genre. Melodic lead vocals with scream-along choruses? Check. Jagged post-hardcore rhythms? Check. The feeling that nothing matters but this music, right now? Check. Required for anyone who recently saw both of Thursday frontman Geoff Rickly’s consecutive weekend appearances. $27, 7 p.m., Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St., papertigersatx.com. —

Mike McMahan

Saturday, July 29

The Spill Canvas, Nathan Hussy

Over two decades, Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s The Spill Canvas has built on its early success by touring with notable headliners including Yellowcard, OneRepublic and Goo Goo Dolls. Over recent years, lead singer Nick Thomas has stepped out for solo and side projects, but in 2021 the band released Conduit, its first LP since 2012. $18-$20, 6:30 p.m., Vibes Underground, 1223 E. Houston St., (210) 255-3833, facebook.com/vibesunderground. —

Danny Cervantes

Braid

Haunt Me, Calaverx, Night Ritualz

Aptly titled Goth Prom, this show allows attendees to re-experience the night of their high school proms as if the goth kids killed the DJ and took over the sound system. On top of DJs spinning post-punk hits all night, Austin-based Haunt Me — a three-piece playing darkwave inspired the classic ’80s bands in the genre — will perform a headlining set. Mexican artist Calaverx, who makes darkwave with lyrics in Spanish, and Night Ritualz, a notable recent post-punk project from SA, will open. $20, 9 p.m., Hi-Tones, 621 E. Dewey Place, instagram.com/hitones_sa. —

Dalia Gulca

Monday, July 31

waveform*, they are gutting a body of water, Teethe

Dallas band Teethe is a band to be excited about, even if its dreamy, narcoticized mix of psychedelia and gently rolling shoegaze isn’t the kind of thing that gets pulses pumping. The diverse bill also includes young, prolific bedroom popsters waveform*, who pride themselves on being genreless. Meanwhile, they are gutting a body of water are avant-garde oddballs. $17, 7:30 p.m., Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St., papertigersatx.com. — MM

Tuesday, August 1

Jesse & Joy, Francisca Valenzuela

Born in Mexico City, brother and sister Jesse & Joy have established themselves as pop luminaries in their home country. With five studio albums and a combined seven Grammy and Latin Grammy awards, the duo built a career inspired by their parents’ love of classic rock and folk music while borrowing instruments from their father’s church. In 2022, Jesse & Joy released their latest album Clichés. American born Chilean singer Francisca Valenzuela opens. $49-$114, 8 p.m.,

—

Wednesday, August 2

Rhett Miller, Grady Spence

Texan Rhett Miller is best known as frontman for the alt country outfit Old 97’s, but he’s also forged a critically acclaimed solo career. While alternating between the two, Miller has collaborated with stars including Peter Buck of R.E.M., Rosanne Cash and Ben Kweller on eight solo albums. While Old 97’s albums drive with an undeniable kinetic energy, Miller’s solo work, including last year’s album The Misfit, is quieter and more reflective. $20-$100, 8 p.m., Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson St., (210) 223-2830, samsburgerjoint. com. — DC

Friday, August 4

The Buttertones, Big Foot & The Gregs, The Irons The Southern California sun seems to breed bands like The Buttertones. Like other Los Angeles acts, the group melds elements of surf rock, post-punk and garage into a cinematic sound. The LP Jazzhound and a tour with The Reverend Horton Heat were high points in 2020, a year the band had to retool after sexual assault allegations against a former member. Last year, The Buttertones released two new singles, an apparent jumpstart to its next chapter. $20, 7 p.m., Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St., papertigersatx.com. — DC

Ariel & The Culture, CHROMA

Whether singing in English, Spanish or blending the two, Dallas-based Ariel & The Culture and CHROMA make indie music that emphasize the Chicano experience. Nearly all first-gen Mexican Americans, the artists draw from their multicultural upbringings to create their music. Ariel & The Culture, who’s performed at SXSW and shared stages with artists including boy

pablo and A-Wall, straddles multiple genres in its soft, dreamy songs. Frontman Ariel sings in a self-described “funny Spanish accent” due to relearning the language as an adult. Meanwhile, hip-hop collective CHROMA makes funky, bright tracks that fit in with the current crop of indie rap. $15, 8 p.m., Vice Versa, 123 Heiman St., (210) 977-0566, instagram.com/viceversa.sanantonio. — DG

Saturday, August 5

Shane Smith & The Saints, Kolton Moore & The Clever Few, Angel White Red-dirt country outfit Shane Smith & The Saints has been around for more than a decade, but took an interesting studio turn with 2019’s Hail Mary, produced by Mark Needham, best known for working with pop acts such as Imagine Dragons and Blue October. The band released the album in “chapters” that were pieced together to form a whole — a surprising move for a band outside the prog rock genre. This show is recommended for listeners who enjoy harmonies, spirited fiddle and — given its outdoor setting — those who can stand the heat. $25, 7:30 p.m., Whitewater Amphitheater, 11860 FM 306, New Braunfels, (830) 964-3800, floattheguadalupe.com. — MM

Sunday, August 6

Chase Petra, Worlds Greatest Dad

The members of Long Beach, California’s Chase Petra likes to say the band formed “out of necessity,” and if you need a further clue, they call their sound “quarter-life crisis rock.” Yes, the pop-punk ensemble with heavy ’00s inspirations will have you pogoing along via songs like the cheekily titled “Reliable Narrator.” Its debut LP Liminal dropped in 2019. $15-$17, 7 p.m., Vibes Underground, 1223 E. Houston St., (210) 2553833, vibeseventcenter.com. — MM

music

Reminder:

Although live events have returned, the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us. Check with venues to make sure scheduled events are still happening, and please follow all health and safety guidelines.

Aztec Theatre, 104 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 812-4355, theaztectheatre.com.

DC

Coiurtesy Photo / Braid

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EMPLOYMENT

Technology Engineer IV sought by Capital Group Companies Global in San Antonio, TX. Engineer IT Analytics data solutions that meet reqmts, utilizing proven data frameworks. Hybrid work permitted - when not working from home, must report to San Antonio, TX office. Salary: $152,152 - $185,456/yr, plus standard co. benefits. Must have unrestricted right to work in U.S. To apply, send resume to: Global Mobility Team - cgapplications@capgroup.com. MUST REF. JOB CODE: SA0422AS

Technology Engineer III sought by Capital Group Companies Global in San Antonio, TX: Research, select, & implmt appropriate IT Analytics data tools for the platform from flexible data acquisition, storing, analysis, & life cycle mgmt. $121,035 to $146,533/yr & Standard Co. Benefits. Must have unrestricted right to work in U.S. Hybrid work is permitted. When not working from home must report to San Antonio, TX office. To apply send resume to: Global Mobility Team at cgapplications@capgroup.com. MUST REF. JOB CODE: SA0122RG

Technology Engineer III sought by Capital Group Companies Global in San Antonio, TX: Work w/ Solution Engineers/Data Engineers to establish, improve, & maintain solutions leveraged by multiple product teams. Hybrid work permitted - when not working from home, must report to San Antonio, TX office. Salary: $114,338 - $146,533/yr, plus standard co. benefits. Must have unrestricted right to work in U.S. To apply, send resume to: Global Mobility Team - cgapplications@capgroup.com. MUST REF. JOB CODE: SA0622BV

Solutions Engineer III sought by Capital Group Companies Global in San Antonio, TX: Work on a diverse team of Appian engineers to establish, improve & maintain Appian solutions. Hybrid work permitted - when not working from home, must report to San Antonio, TX office. Salary: $114,338 - $146,533/yr, plus standard co. benefits. Must have unrestricted right to work in U.S. To apply, send resume to: Global Mobility Team - cgapplications@capgroup.com. MUST REF. JOB CODE: SA1221HM

Solutions Engineer IV sought by Capital Group Companies Global in San Antonio, TX. Responsible for leading end-to-end solutioning across all aspects of SDLC (analysis, dvlpmt, testing, deployment, support, etc.) for business problems w/ medium to high level complexity. Salary: $124,842 - $185,456/yr & Standard Co. Benefits. Must have unrestricted right to work in U.S. Hybrid work is permissible. When not working from home, must report to San Antonio, TX office. Send resume to: Global Mobility Team at cgapplications@capgroup.com. MUST REF. JOB CODE: SA0121AG

Product Manager III – Rackspace US, Inc. - San Antonio, TX. Involved throughout entire lifecycle of product, working closely w/cross-functional teams from product initiation to delivery to eventual product retirement. Req’d: Bach deg in Tech, Business or rel fld + min 5yrs exp in tech or product mgmt OR Masters deg in Tech, Business or rel fld + min 3yrs exp in tech or product mgmt. Telecommuting an option for this position. Send resume to: careers@rackspace.com, Ref. 28063

Software Developer IV – Rackspace US, Inc. - San Antonio, TX. Performs highly complex product design activities. Req’d: Bach deg in tech rel fld + min 5yrs exp as Sr. Dev/Lead (OR Master’s deg in tech rel fld + min 3yrs exp as Sr. Dev/Lead). Req’d: Min 5yrs exp w/Java; Req’d: Min 4yrs exp w/Python; Req’d: Min 3yrs exp w/ AWS. Telecommuting an option for this position. Send resume to: careers@rackspace.com, Ref. 13829

Sr. Data Engineer – Rackspace US, Inc. - San Antonio, TX. Responsible for delivery of robust Data Engineering Solutions that meet business goals of clients. Req’d: Bach deg in CS, Info Sys or rel tech fld + min 5yrs exp in rel occupation (OR Masters deg in CS, Info Sys or rel tech fld + min 3yrs exp in rel occupation). Req’d: Min 5yrs exp in Data Engr, building ETL /ELT data pipelines on Cloud. Req’d: Min 5yrs exp dev solutions on a major Public Cloud. Req’d: Min 5yrs exp working w/Big Data processing & analytics tech. Req’d: Min 5yrs exp programming in a common data analytics language. Req’d: At least one industry cert from top tier Cloud tech provider. Up to 50% travel to various unanticipated client site locations throughout the US. The position is available for remote work. Send resume to: careers@rackspace.com, Ref. RAXSr.DE

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