The Legendary Print Edition
Withmore than 300 years of history, it stands to reason that San Antonio is a city full of icons.
Think of the Alamo and its presence on movie screens, in history books and as part of our nation’s lore. Or the Tower of the Americas that dominates our skyline. Or the River Walk that keeps visitors coming back year after year to experience our hospitality.
We like to think of the Current ’s annual Best of San Antonio issue as an e ort to highlight our beloved city’s other icons. Maybe not the kind that get us recognized on a national stage, but hometown icons that represent the best SA has to o er in dining, nightlife, shopping and more.
BOSA winners are icons in their own right because they’re selected by you, our readers. You value them, praise them and recognize the significance they
play. The winners are chosen solely by popular vote and without the need for us to weigh in with Critics’ Picks. We o er plenty of commentary in our other issues. For this one, we wanted to hear directly from you.
Of course, what qualifies as an icon is in the eye of the beholder, and that certainly applies when it comes to BOSA winners. Sometimes we agree with our fellow readers’ choices, sometimes we’re left scratching our heads and sometimes we want to ask folks what they’re smoking.
But, hey, that’s fine. Whatever the outcome, the voting helps all of us understand where San Antonio is culturally and where it may be headed.
Thank you for helping shine a light on San Antonio’s icons. We suspect that perusing this issue will help you recognize some new ones you weren’t even aware existed.
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST BAKERY / BEST CONCHA
Winner: La Panadería Multiple locations lapanaderia.com
Brothers David and José Cáceres brought their experience with “long-fermented” breads from Mexico City to San Antonio in 2014. The pair now operate three La Panadería locations, which ply tequila almond croissants, classic conchas, trendy Nutella “cruffins” and seasonal pan de muerto. Traditional teleras and birotes find their way into tortas too, and both bubbles and a house country loaf can accompany fresh salads. Don’t miss the spiral croissants that cradle eggs with ham, chorizo, kiolbassa and more.
BEST BAKERY:
2. Bird Bakery 5912 Broadway (210) 804-2473 birdbakery.com
3. Lily’s Cookies
2716 McCullough Ave. (210) 832-0886 lilyscookies.com
BEST CONCHA:
2. La Popular Multiple locations facebook.com/lapopularbakery
3. H-E-B Multiple locations heb.com
BEST BARBACOA
Winner: Rios Barbacoa Multiple locations
2. Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa Multiple locations
3. Tommy’s Restaurant Multiple locations mytommys.com
BEST BARBECUE
Winner: Smoke Shack BBQ 3714 Broadway (210) 957-1430 smokeshacksa.com
T2. 2M Smokehouse 2731 S. WW White Road (210) 885-9352 2msmokehouse.com
3. Blanco BBQ 13259 Blanco Road (210) 251-2602 blancobbq.com
BEST BREAKFAST TACOS
Winner: Pete’s Tako House 502 Brooklyn Ave. (210) 224-2911 petestakohouse.com
2. Bill Miller Bar-B-Q Multiple locations billmillerbbq.com
3. Taqueria Datapoint #1 4503 De Zavala Road (210) 455-3888 taqueriadatapoint.net
BEST BRUNCH
Winner: Magnolia Pancake Haus Multiple locations magnoliapancakehaus.com
San Antonio’s Magnolia Pancake Haus mini-chain has been family owned and operated since 2000. Its namesake pancakes are a key draw, and diners can order them with a variety of ingredients stirred into the ba er, including blueberries, chocolate chips, pecans, bananas foster, granola, apple cinnamon and even bacon. Though the fluffy bu ermilk flapjacks steal the show, Magnolia locations also serve a full menu of brunch favorites, including omelets, waffles and eggs Benedict. Those who feel like honoring the hair-of-the-dog brunch tradition also have their choice thanks to Magnolia’s list of libations, which includes the standard-issue mimosa or the “beer mosa,” a citrus brew combined with fresh-squeezed OJ.
2. La Panadería Multiple locations lapanaderia.com
3. Box St. All Day Multiple locations boxstallday.com
here’s more than one way to get your brisket fix at Smoke Shack BBQ, the durable, Baja 09 favorite. The smoky Texas staple comes blended with mac and cheese, slipped into sliders, piled high with pulled pork atop a snappy sausage link and even mated to melty cheese in the grilled classic sando. Tejas Hot Chicken comes amped up with chili piquin oil and cooled by crunchy slaw. Comforting sides of fried okra and collard greens keep all orders good company.
BEST BURGER
Winner: Burger Boy Multiple locations burgerboysa.com
2. Cuarto De Kilo 12411 Bandera Road, Suite 108, Helotes (210) 263-9228 cuartodekilo.us
3. Chris Madrid’s 1900 Blanco Road (210) 735-3552 chrismadrids.com
BEST CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT
Winner: The Jerk Shack 10234 TX-151, Suite 103 (210) 776-7780 thejerkshacksatx.com
2. La Marginal 2447 Nacogdoches Road (210) 804-2242 lamarginalrestaurant.com
3. Jamaica Jamaica Cuisine 2026 Austin Highway (210) 590-0515 jamaicajamaicacuisine.com
BEST CHARCUTERIE
Winner: Cured 306 Pearl Parkway, Unit 101 (210) 314-3929 curedatpearl.com
If you’re sick of the same old happy-hour sliders and nachos, Cured has the cure. (Sorry, not sorry.) It should come as no surprise that this Pearl fixture has taken home the gold for the best charcuterie in San Antonio. Specializing in Texas farm-to-table fare, the rustic-chic New American restaurant takes its curing seriously, from meats to pickles, and its boards remain a highlight for fans. Cured’s menu is in constant evolution, upholding multiJames Beard Award-nominated chef Steve McHugh’s core values of “smart, seasonal and sustainable.” In addition to the extensive charcuterie offerings, expect exceptional seafood, lamb, chicken livers, craft cocktails and more.
2. Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room 19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 704 (210) 495-2672 thecopawinebar.com
3. The Board Couple 2218 N. Zarzamora St. (210) 573-2100
BEST CHICKEN FRIED STEAK
Winner: Josephine Street
400 E. Josephine St. (210) 224-6169 josephinestreet.com
Longevity is a leitmotif with many San Antonio favorites, and Josephine Street, known for its neon “Steaks and Whisky” signage, is among the city’s most durable restaurants, counting more than 45 years under its big-buckled belt. Its chicken fried steak arrives mantled with classic cream gravy and makes for a full Texas experience. It’s big, crisply coated and as decadent as one would expect. Try it with an order of stuffed jalapeños and a Ranger Creek Rye to bolster the proud Lone Star State theme.
2. Little Red Barn Steakhouse 1836 S. Hackberry St. (210) 532-4235 li leredbarnsteakhouse.com
3. MK Davis 1302 N. Flores St. (210) 223-1203 facebook.com/mkdavisrestaurant
BEST CHINESE FOOD
Winner: Hung Fong Chinese Restaurant 3624 Broadway (210) 822-9211 hungfongsa.com
2. Sichuan House 3505 Wurzbach Road (210) 509-9999 sichuaneats.com
3. Ding How Chinese Restaurant 4531 NW Loop 410 (210) 340-7944 dinghowsa.com
BEST CHURROS
Winner: Honchos - The House Of Churros 6421 Broadway (210) 760-0377 honchoschurros.com
2. El Churro Loco 12275 Potranco Road (210) 898-7024 elchurroloco.com
3. I Love Churros Coffee Shop
7007 Bandera Road, Unit 14 (210) 888-1550
La Panaderia
instagram.com/ilovechurrosatx
BEST COFFEE SHOP
Winner: Summer Moon Coffee Multiple Locations summermooncoffee.com
2. La Panadería Multiple locations lapanaderia.com
3. Eight Ball Coffee
1432 S. St. Mary’s St. instagram.com/eightballcoffee
BEST COMFORT FOOD
Winner: Max and Louie’s New York Diner
226 W. Bi ers Road, Suite 126 (210) 483-7600 maxandlouies.com
Yes, there’s a lot of schtick surrounding Max and Louie’s, from its name to its cartoon character namesakes to its trying-really-hard-tolook-old-school interior decor, but the quality food and dependable service are enough to win over all but the most cynical naysayers. This local treasure is all about comforting eats, from French toast made from thick slices of challah
bread to home-style meatloaf to milehigh chicken salad and egg salad sandwiches. Italian American favorites like eggplant Parmesan also satisfy, as does the soul-nourishing chicken matzo ball soup. Who says Texans only crave chicken fried steak and mashed taters when they’re looking for a comforting meal?
2. Comfort Cafe Multiple locations serenitystar.org/comfort-cafe
3. Little Red Barn Steakhouse 1836 S. Hackberry St.
(210) 532-4235 li leredbarnsteakhouse.com
BEST CRAWFISH
Winner: Smashin Crab
Multiple locations smashincrab.com
2. LA Crawfish
Multiple locations thelacrawfish.com
3. Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
Multiple locations williesgrillandicehouse.com
Instagram / lapanaderia
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST DATE NIGHT
RESTAURANT / BEST ITALIAN
RESTAURANT
Winner: Paesanos
Multiple locations paesanos.com
Fifty years and three locations after Paesanos first captured San Antonio’s a ention with its now-famous lemon and bu er-sauced shrimp, the iconic Italian outpost still holds a prime place in the city’s food pantheon. Many had our first lamb, pork or veal osso buco here, and scaloppini came to mean more than mozzarella and marinara thanks to its capable kitchen. Lush linguini pescatore also caught the collective eye, along with impeccably sautéed and sauced snapper. Pair that elegant food with the elegant se ing of Paesanos’ three locations and you have what many in SA consider the ultimate date-night bite.
BEST DATE NIGHT
RESTAURANT:
2. Bliss
926 S. Presa St. (210) 225-2547 foodisbliss.com
3. Tokyo Cowboy 135 E. Commerce St. (210) 305-7075 tokyocowboytx.com
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT:
2. The Purple Garlic Italian Cafe 15909 San Pedro Ave., Suite 115 (210) 467-5140 purplegarliccafe.com
3. Little Italy Restaurant 824 Afterglow St. (210) 349-2060 li leitalysatx.com
BEST DONUT SHOP
Winner: The Original Donut Shop 3307 Fredericksburg Road (210) 734-5661 facebook/theoriginaldonutshop
2. Shipley’s Do-Nuts Multiple locations shipleydonuts.com
3. Plantyful Sweets 1520 N. Main Ave. (210) 957-1480 plantyfulsweets.com
Cured
BEST ENCHILADAS
Winner: Blanco Cafe 1720 Blanco Road (210) 732-6480 blancocafesa.com
2. Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine 5800 Broadway #300 (210) 822-6151 palomablanca.net
3. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant 4223 Blanco Road (210) 732-6017 losbarriosrestaurant.com
BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT
Winner: Pinstack Multiple locations pinstackbowl.com
How far we’ve come since the days of Chuck E. Cheese. The Dallas-based Pinstack chain’s two San Antonio locations combine bowling alleys with games, a ractions, a bar and menus that have something to satisfy pre y much any member of the family. The result is gathering spot that can make for a fun weekend outing, a memorable birthday party or a team-building exercise with the work
fam. The sensory overload of the massive game room keeps kids occupied while parents dig into cut-above burgers and hoist a pint or two. Massive 32-ounce milkshakes in creative flavor combinations provide a sugar rush to fuel the fun.
2. Sea Island Shrimp House Multiple locations shrimphouse.com
3. The Cove 606 W. Cypress St. (210) 227-2683 thecove.us
Instagram / Cured at Pearl
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST FOOD TRUCK
Winner: The Baked Bird (989) 975-2521 thebakedbirdsa.com
2. Benjie’s Munch (210) 556-8624 benjiesmunch.com
3. David Andrews BBQ Co. (210) 322-3227 tiktok.com/discover/ david-andrews-bbq
BEST FOOD TRUCK PARK
Winner: 1604 Cantina Food Truck Park 1850 W. Loop 1604 South (210) 255-3755 1604cantina.com
2. El Camino Food Truck Park & Bar 1009 Avenue B elcaminosa.com
3. The Block SA 14530 Roadrunner Way (210) 690-3333 theblocksa.com
BEST FRENCH FRIES
Winner: Mr. Juicy 3315 San Pedro Ave. (210) 994-9838 instagram.com/mrjuicyburger
During his time running The Luxury — the River Walk bar and grill whose space was later taken over by Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen — honcho Andrew Weissman labeled the french fries on his menu “Crack Fries.” And for good reason: the twice-fried suckers were simply that addictive. That same double-blanched approach has carried over to the esteemed chef’s burger stand, Mr. Juicy, and the result is that the sliced spuds are rendered crisp on the exterior and meltingly tender inside. Kissed with just the right amount of salt, these fries are perfection, no ma er what they’re called.
2. La Frite 728 S. Alamo St. (210) 224-7555 lafritesa.com
3. Mina & Dimi’s Greek House 7159 W. U.S. Highway 90 (210) 674-3464 agreekhouse.com
BEST FRIED CHICKEN
Winner: Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery
136 E. Grayson St. #120 (210) 455-5701 southerleighatpearl.com
2. Bill Miller Bar-B-Q Multiple locations
billmillerbbq.com
3. Clutch City Cluckers
7038 UTSA Blvd. (210) 245-0072 clutchcitycluckers.com
BEST FRUTERÍA
Winner: Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More Multiple locations lasnieves.net
2. Frutería La Tropicana 8518 Culebra Road, Suite 101 (210) 871-0136 facebook.com/fruterialatropicana
3. The Frutería Mexican Botanero 1401 S. Flores St., Suite 102 (210) 251-3104 thefruteria.com
BEST HOT CHICKEN
Winner: Pete’s Hot Chicken
2418 S. Presa St. (210) 420-6444 peteshotchicken.square.site
2. Krazy Katsu
5257 McCullough Ave. (210) 592-4358 krazykatsu.com
3. Chi Chi Birds Hot Chicken 105 Sadie St. (210) 473-6377
facebook.com/chichibirds
BEST HOT DOG
Winner: The Dogfather Multiple locations sadogfather.com
The Dogfather bills its creative approach to hotdoggery as “gourmet.” While some may question whether toppings such as queso, fried jalapeños and Flamin’ Hot Cheetos qualify, there’s no questioning the a ention to detail the San Pedro Avenue staple puts into elevating its namesake street food. The sturdy brioche buns are house-made, as are a variety of embellishments, from the chili con carne (both meat and vegan varieties) and the sauerkraut. Pick between a 100% Angus all-beef frank or a Fieldroast Vegan Frankfurter and let The Dogfather pile it high. Don’t forget to ask for a side of one of the creative dipping sauces, such as the horseradish crema, which are also — you guessed it made in-house.
2. El Jefe Hotdogs eljefehotdogs.com
3. Chicago Hot Dogs
12914 Jones Maltsburger Road, Unit 101 (210) 906-5260 chicagohotdogs.com
Sanford Nowlin
The Dogfather
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST ICE CREAM
Winner: Lick Honest Ice Cream
Multiple locations ilikelick.com
Lick is the ice cream of dreams. The Texas-born chain has an uncanny knack for integrating all-natural ingredients in surprising ways that delight rather than overwhelm your palate. You’ll wish Mom served roasted beets like this — with mint and integrated into a delightfully creamy summer treat. Goat cheese, thyme and honey? Let’s have it. Olive oil in ice cream? You betcha. Do not fear these flavor combinations. Lick also offers dairy-free and vegan options. Seasonal flavors share freezer space with nine or so amazing daily flavors.
2. Freshest Ice Cream
8053 Callaghan Road (210) 371-6510 freshesticecreams.com
3. Alamo Paletas (210) 816-3003 alamopaletas.square.site
BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Tarka Indian Kitchen Multiple locations tarkaindiankitchen.com
2. India Palace
8474 Fredericksburg Road #100 (210) 692-5262 indiapalace-sa.com
3. India Oven 1031 Patricia Drive #106 (210) 544-5968 indiaovensa.com
BEST INTERNATIONAL MARKET
Winner: Tim’s Oriental & Seafood Market
7015 Bandera Road (210) 523-1688 facebook.com/timsorientalmarketsatx
While the Alamo City has never boasted the kind of mega-sized Asian markets that have popped up around Houston and the DFW Metroplex, Tim’s Oriental & Seafood Market comes damned close. Don’t let the strip-mall location fool you, this market packs in a dizzying abundance of fresh, frozen, jarred and preserved foods representing the cui-
Whataburger
sines of China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and beyond. Roast duck and barbecue pork are prepared in house and the live blue crabs and crawfish are available on certain days of the week.
2. Ali Baba International Food Market 9307 Wurzbach Road (210) 691-1111 facebook.com/alibabasanantonio
3. Las Americas Latin Market 6623 San Pedro Ave. (210) 340-2747 lasamericaslatinmarket.com
BEST JUICE SHOP
Winner: Queen Bee Juicery 13469 Wetmore Road (210) 332-5065 queenbeejuicery.square.site
2. Bee’s Wellness Cafe 3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102
(210) 836-8141 beeswellnesscafe.com
3. Revolución Multiple locations enjoyrev.com
BEST KOREAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Kpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot 12485 I-10 West (210) 910-4494 thekpotsanantonio.com
2. Seoul Food 2456 Harry Wurzbach Road (210) 476-5135 facebook.com/seoulfoodsa
3. Gogi Street 12820 Jones Maltsberger Road #104 (210) 455-5574
BEST LATE NIGHT PLACE TO EAT
Winner: Whataburger
Multiple locations whataburger.com
Even though it seems like much of South Texas rolls up the sidewalks after 10 p.m., 24/7 service has long been a fixture for this San Antonio-based chain. Who among us hasn’t hit up one of its drive-thrus for a Taquito ahead of an early haul out of town or a mustard-slathered Bacon and Cheese Whataburger after a night of carousing? The dining room scene also makes for prime people watching during the wee hours, especially when the bar crowd and other nightcrawlers overlap with the equally colorful early risers.
2. Mama Margie’s Mexican Cafe Multiple locations mamamargies.com
3. Taco Palenque Multiple locations tacopalenque.com
Courtesy Photo / Whataburger
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST LATIN AMERICAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas 910 S. Alamo St. (210) 314-2723 lunarosatapas.com
2. Fat Tummy Empanadas 2922 W. Commerce St. (210) 396-7288 fa ummyempanadas.com
3. Zulia’s Kitchen
16111 San Pedro Ave., Suite 117-119 (726) 238-1656 instagram.com/zuliaskitchen
BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Pasha Mediterranean Grill
Multiple locations gopasha.com
Self-described as “San Antonio’s original Mediterranean grill,” Pasha was formed in 2008 when two families joined forces to create an establishment offering authentic Eastern Mediterranean cuisine in the TexMex capital of the world. Fast-forward to today, and their first Medical Center-area restaurant has blossomed into a thriving homegrown chain. Popular dishes include its gyro plate, joojeh kabob Cornish hen, cranberry rice and sublimely spiced cauliflower florets. The menu is a crowd pleaser, offering both wine and Halal meat. The Turkish word pasha refers to a high-ranking officer, a title akin to knighthood. With a name like that, Pasha’s owners must have known it was destined for greatness from the start. Our readers seem to agree.
2. Mina & Dimi’s Greek House 7159 W. U.S. Highway 90 (210) 674-3464 agreekhouse.com
3. Papouli’s Greek Grill
Multiple locations papoulis.com
BEST MENUDO
Winner: Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
218 Produce Row (210) 225-1262 mitierracafe.com
2. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant
La Fogata
4223 Blanco Road (210) 732-6017 losbarriosrestaurant.com
3. El Milagrito Café 521 E. Woodlawn Ave. (210) 737-8646 facebook.com/elmilagrito
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Winner: La Fogata Mexican Cuisine
Multiple locations lafogata.com
Sometimes there’s no arguing with a classic, and when it comes to San Antonio-style Mexican food, La Fogata is as classic as it gets. After starting three decades ago with a single restaurant on Vance Jackson Road known for its patio dining and lush tropical feel, La Fogata has opened satellites in Alamo Heights and the Dominion. The fire-roasted salsa, deft touch with grilled specialties and many varieties of top-notch margaritas are key draws at all three locations.
2. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar 722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com
3. Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine 5800 Broadway #300 (210) 822-6151 palomablanca.net
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Winner: Cuarto De Kilo 12411 Bandera Road, Suite 108, Helotes (210) 263-9228 cuartodekilo.us
2. Leche de Tigre Cebicheria Peruana 318 E. Cevallos St. (210) 265-5933 lechedetigretx.com
3. Hook Land & Sea 875 E. Ashby Place, Building 3 (210) 201-3027 hooksatx.com
BEST PIZZA
Winner: Mattenga’s Pizzeria Multiple locations ma engas.com
2. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana Multiple locations doughpizzeria.com
3. Little Italy Restaurant
824 Afterglow St. (210) 349-2060 li leitalysatx.com
BEST PUFFY TACOS
Winner: Henry’s Puffy Tacos Multiple locations henryspuffytacos.com
2. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant 4223 Blanco Road (210) 732-6017 losbarriosrestaurant.com
3. Teka Molino Multiple locations tekamolino.com
Intagram / lafogatasa
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST RAMEN
Winner: Bakudan Ramen Multiple locations bakudanramen.com
2. Suck It Multiple locations chefsuckit.com
3. Kimura
1017 N. Flores St. (210) 444-0702 kimurasa.com
BEST RESTAURANT FOR SPECIAL DIETS
Winner: Hash Vegan Eatery
5007 S. Flores St. (210) 332-9244 hashveganeatery.com
After overcoming a rough early start that included an online fundraiser to keep its doors open, Hash Vegan Eatery appears to have found its crowd. The South Side eatery launched in 2020 with brothers and business partners Rogelio and Michael Sanchez eager to offer sober and healthy choices to a community full of bars and fast-food spots. In addition to comforting, plant-based delights such as “phish” tacos made with crisp tofu and Buffalo wings with cauliflower standing in for the chicken, Hash boasts a sober bar that features an impressive array of CBD-infused mocktails and more.
2. Pharm Table
611 S. Presa St. (210) 802-1860 pharmtable.com
3. Green Vegetarian Cuisine 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 940 (210) 320-5865 eatatgreen.com
BEST SALSA
Winner: Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar
722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com
Good table salsa isn’t just about heat but flavor. At its most craveable, it should have both a satisfying burn and a robust complexity. Rosario’s take — a frequent winner in this category — gets that satisfying depth from roasting tomatoes, peppers and onions to bring out their earthy and sweet essences. The chili brings a
satisfying burn without overriding all the other delectable flavors that make up the salsa’s taste profile.
2. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant 4223 Blanco Road (210) 732-6017 losbarriosrestaurant.com
3. Tacos n’ Salsa Mexican Cafe Multiple locations tnsmexicancafe.com
BEST SANDWICHES
Winner: Gino’s Deli at Stop & Buy 13210 Huebner Road #110 (210) 764-0602 myginosdeli.com
2. Beacon Hill Market & Deli 1717 Blanco Road (210) 999-5239 beaconhillmarketanddeli.com
3. The Hayden Multiple locations thehaydensa.com
BEST SEAFOOD Winner: Sea Island Shrimp House Multiple locations shrimphouse.com
Sea Island Shrimp House has been often imitated, but it’s hard to beat its nearly 60-year history. The first location opened in 1965 be-
hind North Star Mall, and its loyal following has helped it add six more San Antonio stores. The menu includes not just fried favorites but grilled treasures from the deep. Barclay Anthony, son of Sea Island co-founders Dan and Crissy Anthony, still oversees the business and growing the menu, which has expanded to include more contemporary items such as shrimp campechana and teriyaki-style chicken and shrimp.
2. El Bucanero Multiple locations el-bucanero.com
3. Fish City Grill Multiple locations fishcitygrill.com
VOTED BEST SANDWICHES
“But seriously, their brunch and dinner? Pretty pretty good.” BROADWAY
4025 Broadway St.
ALAMO MARKET
10003 NW Military Hwy, Suite #2115
Best of SA | Food & Drink
BEST SNACK
Winner: Lily’s Cookies
2716 McCullough Ave. (210) 832-0886 lilyscookies.com
2. Mattenga’s Pizzeria multiple locations ma engaspizzeria.com
3. Ricos Products
830 S. Presa St. (210) 222-1415 ricos.com
BEST SOUL FOOD
Winner: Tony G’s Soul Food Multiple locations tonygssoulfood.com
2. The Jerk Shack
10234 TX-151, Suite 103 (210) 776-7780 thejerkshacksatx.com
3. Mamma Lou’s 4929 Walzem Road (210) 277-7847 facebook.com/mammaloussoulkitchen
BEST STEAKHOUSE
Winner: Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
219 E. Houston St. (210) 472-2600 bohanans.com
2. Brasão Brazilian Steakhouse
19210 I-10 West (210) 233-6868 brasaousa.com
3. Little Red Barn Steakhouse 1836 S. Hackberry St. (210) 532-4235 li leredbarnsteakhouse.com
BEST SUSHI
Winner: Godai Sushi Bar & Japanese Restaurant 11203 West Ave. (210) 899-4832 instagram.com/godai_sushibar
Godai chef-owner William “Goro” Pitchford isn’t precious about Japanese cuisine. Sure, his restaurant offers pristine sushi and sashimi, but a menu that features nearly 50 sushi rolls doesn’t lie. Those creations range from the classic California to the preposterous Pokemon with its combo of deep-fried crayfish, salmon and masago. Ice cream gets a fusion-forward tempura treatment for dessert. But it’s
totally Texas State Fair with the deepfried Oreo a la mode. A recent Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing by the restaurant’s holding company augurs structural reorganization, but it’s unlikely to quash the culinary creativity.
2. Sushihana 1810 NW Military Highway (210) 340-7808 sushihanasan.com
3. Goro’s Sushi Restaurant 2619 Mossrock Drive (210) 349-8117 gorossushisa.com
BEST TACOS
Winner: Taqueria Datapoint Multiple locations taqueriadatapoint.net
2. Las Palapas Multiple locations laspalapas.com
3. La Gloria 100 E. Grayson St. (210) 267-9040 che ohnnyhernandez.com/la-gloriapearl
BEST TAMALES
Winner: Delia’s Tamales 13527 Hausman Pass (210) 864-1111 deliastamales.com
2. Delicious Tamales 1330 Culebra Road (210) 735-0275 delicioustamales.com
3. Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa Multiple locations
BEST THAI RESTAURANT
Winner: Thai Dee 5307 Blanco Road (210) 342-3622 thaideesa.com
2. Thai Topaz 2177 NW Military Highway (210) 290-9833 thaitopaz-sat.com
3. Flying Tiger Thai Restaurant 2114 NW Military Highway (210) 281-5521 flyingtigerthai.com
BEST VEGAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Thai Topaz 2177 NW Military Drive (210) 290-9833 thaitopaz-sat.com
2. Plantaqueria 124 Broadway plantaqueria.com
3. Viva Vegeria 1422 Nogalitos St. (210) 465-9233 myvegeria.com
BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT
Winner: Green Vegetarian Cuisine
255 E. Basse Road, Suite 940 (210) 320-5865 eatatgreen.com
2. Earth Burger 818 NW Loop 410 (210) 524-1086 earthburger.com
3. Viva Vegeria 1422 Nogalitos St. (210) 465-9233 myvegeria.com
Instagram / godai_sushibar
Godai
Best of SA | Food & Drink
Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
Winner: Pho Kim Long 4230 McCullough Ave. #2 (210) 829-8021
2. Singhs Vietnamese 2803 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 660-8460 singhsvietnamese.square.site
3. Taste of Asia
300 W. Bi ers Road, Suite 120 (210) 499-5572 tasteofasiarestaurants.com
BEST WINE LIST
Winner: Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
19141 Stone Oak Parkway #704 (210) 495-2672 thecopawinebar.com
The track record of wine bars in San Antonio isn’t good. But Copa Wine Bar has both endured and thrived due to the congeniality of its owners and staff, an atmosphere that both elevates and democratizes wine
and, of course, an exceptional wine list. Prices by the bo le are more than fair and foods such as the new chile verde queso with Texas-staple RoTel make you want to stay, sip and savor.
2. Anne’s Wine Bar 1170 E. Commerce St. (210) 314-2994 francisbogside.com/annes-wine-bar
3. Little Italy Restaurant 824 Afterglow St. (210) 349-2060 li leitalysatx.com
BEST WINGS
Winner: Wayne’s Wings Multiple locations wayneswingssa.com
2. Mattenga’s Pizzeria Multiple locations ma engas.com
3. Smashin Crab Multiple locations smashincrab.com
Instagram / Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
Alamo ranch | St. Mary’s | leon Springs | Stone Oak | Medical Center Thank You Again San Antonio for voting us best coffee shop
Best of SA Finalists | Food & Drink
Best Bakery La Panaderia Bird Bakery
• Lily’s Cookies
• Panaderia Jimenez Coffee Shop
• Baked by Chef Grecia Ramos
Best Barbacoa
• Rios Barbacoa
• Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa
• Tommy’s Restaurant
• El Molina
Mama’s Kitchen
Best Barbecue Smoke Shack BBQ
2M Smokehouse Blanco BBQ Pinkerton’s Barbecue Reese Bros Barbecue
Best Breakfast Tacos
• Pete’s Tako House
• Bill Miller BBQ
• Taqueria Datapoint #1
• Con Huevos Tacos
• Taco Martinez
Best Brunch Magnolia Pancake Haus La Panaderia
Box St. All Day
Comfort Cafe
Mae Dunne Kitchen & Goods Tokyo Cowboy
Best Burger Burger Boy
• Cuarto de Kilo
• Chris Madrid’s
• Mr Juicy
• The Esquire Tavern
• Benjie’s Munch
Best Caribbean Restaurant
• The Jerk Shack
• La Marginal Jamaica Jamaica Cuisine
Caribbean Delight
Real Real Jamaica
Best Charcuterie Cured Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
The Board Couple Honey & Pickle
• Bliss
• Willow’s Cheese Shop
Best Chicken Fried Steak
• Josephine Street
• Little Red Barn Steakhouse
• MK Davis
• Tip Top Cafe
Lone Star Café
Radicke’s Bluebonnet Grill
Best Chinese Food Hung Fong Chinese Restaurant
Sichuan House
Ding How China Inn
WeiKee Chinese Restaurant
Best Churros
• Honchos - The House Of Churros
• El Churro Loco
• I Love Churros Coffee Shop
• Honchos
• La Churreria Patio
• The House of Churros
Best Coffee Shop
Summer Moon Coffee
La Panaderia
Eight Ball Coffee
Bee’s Wellness Cafe & Juicery
Aftersome Coffee
• Creme Cafe & Social
Best Comfort Food
Max and Louie’s New York
Diner
• Comfort Cafe
• Little Red Barn Steakhouse
• Sea Island Shrimp House
• Benjie’s Munch
Best Concha
• La Panaderia
• La Popular
• H-E-B
Miss Chickpea’s Cafetal
Bakery Jimenez Fiesta Bakery
Best Crawfish
Smashin Crab
LA Crawfish
Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
Fish City Grill
• SA Seafood
Best Date Night Restaurant
• Paesanos
• Bliss
• Tokyo Cowboy
• Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
• Chart House
Best Donut Shop
The Original Donut Shop
Shipley’s Do-Nuts
Plantyful Sweets
Snowflake Donuts
Mini Donut Lab
Best Enchiladas
• Blanco Cafe
• Paloma Blanca
• Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant
• Rosario’s Comidamex Bar
• Acenar Mexican Restaurant
Best Family-Friendly
Restaurant
• Pinstack
Sea Island Shrimp House
The Cove
La Hacienda Scenic Loop
Gather Brewing Company
Little Red Barn Steakhouse
Best Food Truck
The Baked Bird
Benjie’s Munch
• David Andrews Co
• Suchi-N-Gon
• Maipe Good
Best Food Truck Park
• 1604 Cantina Food Truck Park
• El Camino SA
• The Block SA
Area 51 Food Park
The Point Park
Best French Fries
Mr Juicy
La Frite
Mina & Dimi’s Greek House
Clutch City Cluckers
Papouli’s
• Copa Wine Bar
Best Fried Chicken
• Southerleigh Fine Food And Brewery
• Bill Miller’s
• Clutch City Cluckers
• Benjie’s Munch
Best Frutería
Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More
Frutería La Tropicana
The Frutería Mexican Botanero
Aloha Shaved Ice
Erick’s Tacos y Frutería
Best Hot Chicken
Pete’s Hot Chicken
Krazy Katsu
• Chi Chi Birds Hot Chicken
• Clutch City Cluckers
Best Hot Dog
• The DogFather
• El Jefe Hotdogs
• Chicago Hot Dogs
• El Chunky
• Mr. Hot Dog El Bamban
Best Ice Cream
Lick Honest Ice Cream
Freshest Ice Cream
Alamo Paletas
• South Alamode Panini & Gelato Company
Brindles Ice Creams
Best Indian Restaurant
• Tarka Indian Kitchen
• India Palace
• India Oven
• Simi’s India Cuisine
• Tandoor Palace
Best International Market
• Tim’s Oriental & Seafood
Market
• Ali Baba International Food
Market
• Las Americas Latin Market
• Minnano Japanese Grocery
• Thai Hut Market
Best Italian Restaurant
• Paesanos
• Little Italy Restaurant
• Purple Garlic Italian Café
• Maggiano’s Little Italy
• Pazzo Pastaria
• Little Italy
Best Juice Shop
• Queen Bee Juicery
Bee’s Wellness Cafe
Revolucion
Juice Joint
Jugo Acai & Juice Bar
Best Korean Restaurant
Kpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
Seoul Food
Gogi Street
• Ilsong Garden
• The Magpie
• Chas Market
Best Late Night Place To Eat
• Whatburger
• Mama Margie’s Mexican Restaurant
• Taco Palenque
• The Esquire Tavern
• Suchi-n-Gon
Best Latin American Restaurant
• Luna Rosa Purto Rican Gril y Tapas
Fat Tummy Empanadas
• Zulia’s kitchen
• Leche de Tigre
• Azuca Nuevo Latino
• La Marginal
Best Mediterranean Restaurant
• Pasha Mediterranean Grill
• Mina & Dimi’s Greek House
Papouli’s Greek Grill
Ladino
Tripoli’s Mediterranean Grill
Abu Omar Halal
Best Menudo
Mi Tierra Café y Panaderia Los Barrios
• El Milagrito Café
• Mama’s Kitchen
• Pico De Gallo Restaurant
• Caracheos
Best Mexican Restaurant
• La Fogata Mexican Cuisine
• Rosario’s Comidamex Bar
• Paloma Blanca
La Fonda on Main
Sabor Cocinabar Acenar Mexican Restaurant
Best New Restaurant
Cuarto De Kilo
Leche de Tigre
Hook Land & Sea
Zulia’s kitchen
• Mae Dunne Kitchen & Goods
• Yozora
Best Pizza
• Mattenga’s Pizzeria
• Dough
• Little Italy Restaurant
• 2-1-Dough Pizza Co. Sofia’s Pizzeria
Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
Best Puffy Tacos
Henry’s Puffy Taco Los Barrios
Teka Molino
Tiago’s Cabo Grille Caracheos
Best Ramen
• Bakudan
• Suck It
• Kimura
• Ginza Ramen and poke
• Ito Ramen
• Cherrity Bar
• Jinya
Best Restaurant for Special Diets
Hash - Vegan Eatery
Pharm Table Green Vegetarian Cuisine Plantyful Sweets
Vegan Avenue on Main
Best Salsa
• Rosario’s Comidamex Bar
• Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant
• Tacos n’ Salsa Mexican Café
• Pericos Mexican Cuisine
• Tiago’s Cabo Grille
• Casa Sol Mexican Restaurant
Best Sandwiches
Gino’s Deli @ Stop & Buy
Beacon Hill Market & Deli
The Hayden WD Deli
The Station Cafe
Benjie’s Munch Delicatexan The Wicked Wich
Best Seafood
• Sea Island Shrimp House
• El Bucanero
• Fish City Grill
• Smashin Crab
• Costa Pacifica
• SA Seafood
Best Snack
Lily’s Cookies
Mattenga’s Pizzeria
Ricos Products
Mini Donut Lab
Creme Coffee & Social
Best Soul Food
Tony G’s Soul Food
The Jerk Shack
• Mamma Lou’s
• Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food
Restaurant
• Bayseas Catfish House
Best Steakhouse
• Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood
• Brasão Brazilian Steakhouse
• Little Red Barn Steakhouse
• Myron’s Prime Steakhouse
Best Sushi
• Godai Sushii Bar & Japanese
Restaurant
Sushihana
Goro’s Sushi
Kona Grill
• Shiro Japanese Bistro
• Suchi-n-Gon
Best Tacos
• Taqueria Datapoint
• Las Palapas
• La Gloria
• La Hacienda de Los Barrios
Chela’s Tacos
Costa Pacifica
Best Tamales
Delia’s Tamales
Delicious Tamales
Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa
Ruben’s Homemade Tamales Tamale Boy Tacos & Tamales
Best Thai Restaurant
• Thai Dee
• Thai Topaz
• Flying Tiger
• Thai Taste
• Siame Cruisine
Best Vegan Restaurant
Thai Topaz Plantaqueria
Viva Vegeria
Miss Chickpeas Cafetal
Green Vegetarian Cuisine
Best Vegetarian Restaurant
Green Vegetarian Cuisine
Earth Burger
• Viva Vegeria
• Thai Topaz
• Tripoli’s Mediterranean Grill
Best Vietnamese Restaurant
• Pho Kim Long
• Singh’s Vietnamese
• Taste of Asia
Pho Saigon
Heavenly Pho
Best Wine List
Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
Anne’s Wine Bar
Little Italy Restaurant
Bliss
Amelia x Social Lounge
• Little Death
Best Wings
• Wayne’s Wings
• Mattengas Pizzeria
• Smashin Crab
• Sofia’s Pizzeria
Resilient and Responsive Artists and the Environment
Thursday, April 11, 2024 | 6pm–9pm
Exhibition on view through January 17, 2025
Featured Artists:
Margaret Craig, Manuel Davila, Celeste De Luna
Luna, Aminah Decé
Aminah Decé, Kwanzaa Edwards, Jose Esquivel, Audrya Flores
Kwanzaa Edwards, Jose Esquivel, Audrya Flores, Jacob Garza
Jacob Garza, Lindsey Hurd, Marcos Medellin, Ashley Mireles
Lindsey Hurd, Marcos Medellin, Ashley Mireles, Linda Monsivais
Linda Monsivais, Doerte Weber, Andrea B. Willems
Doerte Weber, Andrea B. WillemsMonsivais-Hernandez, Doerte Weber, Andrea B. Willems
Free and Open to the Public Culture Commons Gallery | 115 Plaza de Armas, San Antonio, TX 78205
Tuesday – Friday | 9am – 5pm
@GetCreativeSA
Best of SA | Shopping
BEST ADULT STORE
Winner: Sexology Institute 707 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 487-0371 sexologyinstitute.com
2. Love Shack Boutique Multiple locations theloveshackboutique.com
3. Adult Megaplex Multiple locations megaplexsa.com
BEST ANTIQUE STORE
Winner: La Segunda Bartique & Gallery
1302 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 314-2740 instagram.com/la_segunda_bartiqueandgallery
Funking up Southtown since October of 2021, La Segunda Bartique & Gallery is the boozy treasure-hunting haunt you never knew you needed. Owned and operated by longtime San Antonio music fixture Eddie Hernandez — guitarist for the likes of Sexto Sol and Maneaters of Tsavo, and also known as DJ Plata — the bar-equipped emporium fills two floors of a 1930s-era home with anything from retro hi-fi equipment and collectible vinyl to well-preserved vintage duds and Midcentury Modern furniture. During a recent visit, we came up with an extensive wish list that includes a 2005 Rod Stewart concert T-shirt ($38), a set of six mod tulip chairs from 1957 ($550) and a trippy black-light poster of Technicolor mushrooms ($20). Conveniently, these and other purchases can be pondered in the cozy bar area, which features craft brews, micheladas and wines by the glass — not to mention timewarp decor seemingly swiped from a 1970s movie set.
2. Karolina’s Antiques 1709 Blanco Road (210) 731-9787 karolinasantiques.com
3. Alamo Antique Mall 125 Broadway (210) 224-4354 alamoantiquemall.com
BEST ARTISAN MARKET
Winner: Brick at Blue Star 108 Blue Star (210) 265-6072 brickatbluestar.com
2. Traders Village 9333 SW Loop 410 (210) 623-8383 tradersvillage.com/san-antonio
3. The Alley on Bitters 555 W. Bi ers Road (210) 638-8754 thealleyonbi ers.com
BEST BICYCLE SHOP
Winner: Blue Star Bike Shop 1414 S. Alamo St. (210) 858-0331 bluestarbikeshop.com
2. Level Up Bike Shop 1409 E. Commerce St., Space C (210) 505-7686 www.levelupbikeshop.com
3. Bicycle Heaven Multiple locations instagram.com/bicycleheaven
BEST BOOK STORE
Winner: Half Price Books Multiple locations hpb.com
It’s hard to write about this without a tear welling in the eye. While the Half Price Books chain remains solidly represented in San Antonio, its longtime store on Broadway closed because the property was sold out from under it. The cramped store had an amazing categorical selection, yes, but more importantly the staff was a perfect storm of artists, musicians, writers and thinkers that this town needed to keep things interesting for decades. There’s no Buttercup without James Joyce, no Boxcar Satan without Edgar Allan Poe, no Hickoids without Mark Twain (or Bukowski, for that matter). Let’s pour one out for the Broadway store and raise a toast to the four SA Half Price locations still kicking ass.
2. Nowhere Bookshop 5154 Broadway (210) 640-7260 nowherebookshop.com
3. The Twig Book Shop 306 Pearl Parkway #106 (210) 826-6411 thetwig.com
BEST CBD SHOP
Winner: Bee’s Wellness Cafe 3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102 (210) 836-8141
beeswellnesscafe.com
2. Mellow Monkey 2286 Bandera Road (210) 432-9333 mellowmonkey.net
3. Creme de la Hemp facebook.com/cremedelahemp
BEST CAR DEALERSHIP
Winner: Alamo Auto Plex LLC 4700 San Pedro Ave. (210) 982-3257 alamoautoplexllc.com
2. North Park Lexus at Dominion 21531 W. I-10 Frontage Road (210) 816-6000 northparklexusatdominion.com
3. McCombs Ford West 7111 NW Loop 410 (833) 711-9378 mccombsfordwest.com
BEST CHILDREN’S STORE
Winner: Crib & Kids 1309 N. Loop 1604 West #106 (210) 764-2742 cribandkids.com
2. Bambinos 5926 Broadway (210) 824-7676 bambinosboutique.com
3. Learning Express Multiple locations learningexpress.com
BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE
Winner: Chasing Camilla Inside Painted Tree Boutiques 522 Northwest Loop 410, Suite 211 chasingcamilla.com
2. Defiant Boutique
Inside Elysia Collective Co. 11858 Wurzbach Road (512) 710-9099 defiantboutique.com
3. Lolo Modern Mexican Mercadito 4305 McCullough Ave. (210) 420-4446 lolomercadito.com
BEST COMIC BOOK / GAME SHOP
Winner: Heroes & Fantasies Multiple locations heroesandfantasies.com
Make sure your belt is cinched up tight on your first visit to a Heroes & Fantasies location, because your geek pants will go crazy. We’re talking an immediate saving throw against frenzy, people. In addition to the expected new and vintage comic books, the stores are full of games (and gaming tables), collectibles, sports memorabilia and other super-cool stuff. Heroes & Fantasies also maintains a calendar full of geeky activities. In addition to gaming tournaments, it hosts special events with artists and writers. This homegrown chain is what other comic and gaming shops want to be when they grow up.
2. Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy Multiple locations dlair.net
3. Andy’s Treasure Chest 9333 SW Loop 410 (210) 862-9311 facebook.com/andystreasurechest
BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE Winner: Too Good To Be Threw 13413 San Pedro Ave. (210) 340-2422 toogoodsa.com
2. Otra Vez 4222 McCullough Ave. (210) 826-0606 otravezconsignment.com
3. The Home Consignment Center 17603 La Cantera Parkway #130 (210) 558-3968 thehomeconsignmentcenter.com
BEST FARMERS MARKET Winner: The Pearl Farmers Market
312 Pearl Parkway (210) 212-7260 atpearl.com/weekend-market
2. The Market at Shavano Park 900 Saddletree Court (210) 799-0176 facebook.com/themarketatshavanopark
3. Garden Ridge Market Days Northeast Bible Church 19185 FM 2252, Garden Ridge (602) 920-9301 gardenridgemarketdays.com
BEST FLEA MARKET
La
Segunda Bartique & Gallery
Winner: Traders Village San Antonio 9333 SW Loop 410 (210) 623-8383 tradersvillage.com/san-antonio
2. Bussey’s Flea Market 18738 I-35 North, Schertz (210) 651-6830 busseysfm.com
3. Mission Open Air Market
207 W. Chavaneaux Road (210) 923-8131 missionopenairmarket.com
BEST FLOWER SHOP
Winner: San Antonio Flower Co. 8930 Broadway, Suite 102
(210) 804-1422 sanantonioflowercompany.com
2. No. 9 Floral-Chocolates-Gifts 1701 Blanco Road (210) 232-4471 no9floralandgifts.com
3. Uptown Flowers 1420 Fredericksburg Road (210) 224-9888 uptownflowers.com
BEST FURNITURE STORE / BEST HOME DECOR STORE
Winner: Period Modern 4347 McCullough Ave. (210) 902-1217 periodmodern.com
Established in 2011 by Ted Allen, Period Modern has always been the go-to spot in San Antonio for Midcentury Modern American and Scandinavian gems from the 1950s through the 1970s. Allen has recently broadened his scope, sourcing and adding pieces from Belgium, France, Germany and Mexico, for starters. Covering some 8,000 square feet, Period Modern has everything you’re looking for — and everything you didn’t know you needed but suddenly must have. Tip: have a budget in mind, because you will want everything. Allen is that good.
2. Home Consignment Center 17603 La Cantera Parkway #130 (210) 558-3968 thehomeconsignmentcenter.com
3. Crib & Kids
1309 N Loop 1604 West #106 (210) 764-2742 cribandkids.com
BEST HOME DECOR STORE:
2. Chica Verde 2314 San Pedro Ave. chicaverde.net
3. Joyeux Home Decor 5007 McCullough Ave. (210) 971-7812 joyeuxhd.com
Bryan Rindfuss
Best of SA | Shopping
BEST LIQUOR STORE
Winner: Spec’s Wines, Spirits and Finer Foods Multiple locations specsonline.com
2. Twin Liquors Multiple locations twinliquors.com
3. Alamo City Liquor
Multiple locations alamocityliquor.com
BEST LOCALLY MADE PRODUCT
Winner: Kiolbassa Smoked Meats
1325 S. Brazos St. (800) 456-5465 kiolbassa.com
2. Ricos Products
830 S. Presa St. (210) 222-1415 ricos.com
3. Dos Carolinas
303 Pearl Parkway #102 (210) 224-7000 doscarolinas.com
BEST MOTORCYCLE SHOP
Winner: Caliente HarleyDavidson 7230 NW Loop 410 (210) 681-2254 calienteharley.com
2. Dream Machines of San Antonio 12241 San Pedro Ave. #100 (210) 463-9090 dreammachinesofsanantonio.com
3. The Motorcycle Shop 2423 Austin Highway (210) 654-0211 themotorcycleshopsa.com
BEST PET BOUTIQUE / PET SUPPLIES
Winner: Fine Whine and Lickers
Dog Bar & Spa
300 W. Bi ers Road #160 (210) 245-0519 fwldogbar.com
If you think Fine Whine and Lickers Dog Bar & Spa is just a punny name, you’re wrong. True to their handle, the folks at Fine Whine & Lickers employ “barkbacks” and “barktenders” who serve up cocktails of bone broth and salmon oil-based “champagne” with names like Dög Pawrignon. And did we mention the catnip-laced Purrgundy? The grooming and pet pampering business returns for the second year as a fan favorite for those who will spare no expense on their pooches and feline friends. Owner Ayya Lira admits her Aussie named Ruger is spoiled and clearly thinks others should share that experience.
2. Fifi & Fidos Pet Boutique
5120 Broadway (210) 822-2525 fifiandfidos.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
2. Alamo Candy Co. 1149 W. Hildebrand Ave. (210) 734-8672 alamocandy.com
3. Alamo Fiesta 102 W. Rector St. (210) 801-9900 alamofiesta.com
Best of SA | Shopping
BEST PLANT NURSERY
Winner: Rainbow Gardens Multiple locations rainbowgardens.biz
There are surprisingly few go-to nurseries in the Alamo City, so when people find a really great one, they tend to stick with it. This year’s winner, Rainbow Gardens, is a perennial favorite for good reason, specializing in foliage of all sorts — annual, ornamental, herbal, vegetable, perennial and mineral (haha) — that won’t sploot in our currently ridiculous climate. Not only that, the friendly and knowledgeable staff can assist experts and neophytes alike.
2. Milberger’s Landscaping and Nursery
3920 N. Loop 1604 East (210) 497-3760 milbergernursery.com
3. Shades of Green
334 W. Sunset Road (210) 824-3772 shadesofgreensa.com
BEST RECORD STORE
Winner: Southtown Vinyl
1112 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 231-0512 southtownvinyl.com
Since 2016, Southtown Vinyl has filled a much-needed vacuum in terms of a well-stocked record store south of Hogwild, the dean of SA indie record retailers. Not only that — a feat in and of itself — Southtown Vinyl has carved a niche by sourcing and stocking precious DJ equipment such as bespoke turntables, rare styluses and random parts that just need fixin’ — a service sorely lacking locally before the retailer opened its doors. Looks like this beloved vinyl operation is here to stay.
2. Hogwild Records
1824 N. Main Ave. (210) 733-5354 facebook.com/hogwildrecords
3. Flipside Records
840 SW Military Drive (210) 923-7811 facebook.com/flipsiderecordparlor
BEST SMOKE SHOP
Winner: Smokerz Paridize Multiple Locations smokerzparadize.com
Texas Thrift
2. Planet K Multiple locations planetktexas.com
3. Mellow Monkey 2286 Bandera Road (210) 432-9333 mellowmonkey.net
BEST THRIFT STORE
Winner: Texas Thrift Store Multiple locations buythrift.com
Seasoned San Antonio pickers know they can count on any of the four Texas Thrift Store locations for old-school bargain hunting in a full-blown supermarket se ing — shopping carts strongly encouraged. Organized and merchandized in a format that’s much more user-friendly than most second-hand
chains, Texas Thrift takes the mystery out of treasure hunting with clearly demarcated sections packed with anything from gently used denim and T-shirts to luggage, plushies and home decor. During a recent perusal of the South Flores location, we spo ed such tempting oddities as a pair of Friendsthemed pajama pants ($4.99), beachready Ray Ban knockoffs in every color of the rainbow ($1.99 each) and a set of framed educational posters dedicated to North American snakes, amphibians and reptiles ($4.99 each). Adding a bonus level to the scavenging experience, Texas Thrift rolls out color-coded tag sales every day. Word to the wise: save the date for Texas Thrift’s Aug. 10 Back to School Sale, when its SA stores will be selling almost everything for 50% off.
2. Thrift City 6804 Huebner Road
(210) 547-0300 thriftcityllc.com
3. Boysville Thrift Store 307 W. Olmos Drive (210) 826-2195 boysvillethriftstore.com
BEST VINTAGE SHOP
Winner: Hello Tallulah 1912 Fredericksburg Road (210) 286-8146 hellotallulah.com
2. Grey Moon Vintage 2202 Broadway facebook.com/greymoonvintage
3. The Junction 1704 Blanco Road (210) 273-3439 facebook.com/thejunctionsanantonio
Bryan Rindfuss
Best of SA Finalists | Shopping
Best Adult Store
Sexology Institute
Love Shack Boutique
Adult Megaplex
Shades of Love
• Zebraz
Best Antique Store
La Segunda Bartique & Gallery
• Karolina’s Antiques
Alamo Antique Mall
Crescent Moon Music and Collectibles
Alamo Craft Company
Best Artisan Market
Brick at Blue Star
• Traders Village
The Alley on Bitters
• SoFlo Market
• Mission Marquee Farmers & Artisans
Market
SA Local Market
Last Chance Market
Best Bicycle Shop
Blue Star Bike Shop
Level Up Bike Shop
• Bicycle Heaven
Pedal Guerrero
• Action Bikes
Best Book Store
Half Price Books
Nowhere Bookshop
The Twig Book Shop
Nine Lives Books
The Book Cellar
Best Car Dealership
Alamo Auto Plex LLC
• North Park Lexus at Dominion
McCombs Ford West
• Cavender Buick GMC
World Car Nissan
Best CBD Shop
Bee’s Wellness Cafe
Mellow Monkey
Creme De La Hemp
• Mary Jane’s CBD Dispensary
Emerald Forest CBD Dispensary
Best Children’s Store
• Crib & Kids
Bambinos
Learning Express
Fox & Tots
Belles & Beaux
Best Clothing Boutique
• Chasing Camilla
Defiant Boutique
• Lolo Modern Mexican Mercadito Barbacoa Apparel
• Desja Chanel Boutique
Chictique
Best Comic Book/Game Shop
Heroes & Fantasies
Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy
Andy’s Treasure Chest
• Black Potion
Nelco Comics
Best Consignment Store
• Too Good to Be Threw
Otra Vez
The Home Consignment Center
Texas Consignment Shop
MOSS Designer Consignment
Best Farmers Market
• The Pearl Farmers Market
The Market at Shavano Park
• Garden Ridge Market Days
Alamo Heights Farmers Market
• Trader’s Town Country Market
Best Flea Market
Traders Villaage San Antonio
Bussey’s Flea Market
Mission Open Air Market
Eisenhauer Road Flea Market
• Poteet Fleamarket
Best Flower Shop San Antonio Flower Co.
No. 9 Floral-Chocolates-Gifts
Uptown Flowers
Bluebonnet Fields Floral
• Woods Florals
Best Furniture Store
Period Modern
• Home Consignment Center
Crib & Kids
Copenhagen Mod Pad
Best Home Decor Store
Period Modern
• Chica Verde
Joyeux Home Décor
• Hill Country Interiors
Agave Ranch Furnishings
• Citrine Home
Best Liquor Store
Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods
Twin Liquors
Alamo City Liquor
WB Liquors & Wine
• Liquors on Main
Best Locally Made Product
Kiolbassa Smoked Meats
• Ricos Products
Dos Carolinas
Twang
Pioneer Flour Mills
Casa Chocolates
Fresh Masa
Best Motorcycle Shop
Caliente Harley Davidson
• Dream Machines of San Antonio
The Motorcycle Shop
• Family PowerSports Alamo
Cycle Rider
Best Pet Boutique/Pet Supplies
Fine Whines and Lickers Dog Bar & Spa
Fifi & Fidos Pet Boutique
The Waggery
• Mike’s Dog Store
Poodle In Pink
Best Place to Get a Piñata
• Amols’ Party and Fiesta Favors
Alamo Candy Co.
Alamo Fiesta Piñata Time
Viva Piñata
Best Plant Nursery
• Rainbow Gardens
Milberger’s Landscaping and Nursery
• Shades of Green
Fanick’s Garden Center
• The Nectar Bar
Best Record Store
Southtown Vinyl
Hogwild Records
Flipside Records
Del Bravo Record Shop
• Friends of Sound
Crazy Rhythms Vinyl Records
• Crescent Moon
Best Smoke Shop
Smokerz Paridize
Planet K
Mellow Monkey
Bee’s Wellness Café & Juicery
Cool Start Dab Co.
Smokers Galaxy
Best Thrift Store
• Texas Thrift Store
Thrift City
• Boysville Thrift Store
Spare Parts Center for Creative Reuse
Thrift @ the Warehouse
Best Vintage Shop
Hello Tallulah
Grey Moon Vintage
• The Junction
Divine Sunshine Collective
• Debbie Silver Consignment Queen of Vintage
Over 200,000 food-insecure children in our area lose access to free or reduced-price meals now that school is out for summer.
The good news is that you can help! With your support, the San Antonio Food Bank can provide no-cost nutritious meals, snacks, and groceries through our Summer Meals for Kids campaign.
VOICE: ENCOURAGE YOUR NETWORK TO GIVE DONATE TO HELP ENSURE NO CHILD GOES HUNGRY THIS SUMMER
FOOD: START A FOOD DRIVE
TIME: VOLUNTEER TO PREPARE MEALS
MONEY: EVERY $1 = 7 MEALS
UTSA VS. KENNESAW ST. AUG 31
UTSA VS. HOUSTON CHRISTIAN SEP 21 CLÁSICO REGIO TIGRES VS. RAYADOS OCT 12
SPONSORS
SPONSORS SCAN THE QR CODE FOR EVENTS & TICKETS
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR EVENTS & TICKETS
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Best of SA | People
BEST AESTHETICIAN
Winner: Kristin Gonzales, Alluring Aesthetics 16530 Huebner Road #211 (210) 714-5390 alluringaesthetics.com
2. Emily Horn, Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics 19141 Stone Oak Parkway #504 (210) 600-3335 magnoliamedskin.com
3. Sarah Evans, Nova Aesthetics 6483 Blanco Road (210) 348-9164 novaaesthetics.com
BEST ALL - TIME SPURS PLAYER
Winner: Tim Duncan
2. Manu Ginobili
3. David Robinson
BEST ATTORNEY
Winner: Law Office of Jesse Hernandez Multiple locations jessehernandezlaw.com
This year marks the second consecutive Best A orney win for Jesse Hernandez, be er known as the “Texas Chancla.” The Lytle native and St. Mary’s Law graduate specializes in criminal law, and he’s become well known for his puro San Antonio branding and social media presence. Hernandez came up with his catchy marketing nickname during a phone call with one of his best friends, who said, “I’m not afraid of a hammer, but I am afraid of my mother’s chancla” — or so the story goes. When Hernandez isn’t in the courtroom fighting for his clients, San Antonians can find him on TikTok, where he answers pressing legal questions, including “Can police look through my phone,” “Is it legal to own wild animals” and “Is it legal for my neighbor to fly their drone over my house?”
2. Thomas J. Henry 5711 University Heights Blvd. #101 (210) 874-2615 thomasjhenrylaw.com
3. John Hicks, The Hicks Law Firm 1846 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 205 (210) 593-6809 jhickslawfirm.com
BEST CHEF
Winner: Ana Sofia Sada, Culinary Institute of America 312 Pearl Parkway, Building 2, Suite 2102 (210) 554-6400 ciachef.edu
2. Andrew Weissman, Mr. Juicy
Multiple locations instagram.com/mrjuicyburger
3. Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, Best Quality Daughter 602 Avenue A (210) 819-4236 bestqualitydaughter.com
BEST COMMUNITY ACTIVIST
Winner: Councilman Jalen
McKee-Rodriguez sa.gov
For the third consecutive year, Current readers have named District 2 City Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez as San Antonio’s top community activist. In 2021, McKee-Rodriguez became the first openly gay Black man to win an election in the state of Texas. Since then, he’s been fighting for marginalized and forgo en communities at City Hall. During his third term, the part-time SAISD teacher has fought to officially recognize San Antonio’s Main Strip, its LGBTQ+ nightlife district, as a Cultural Heritage District. He’s also called for the construction of a new senior center on the East Side and has been among the most staunch supporters of a council resolution calling for an end to Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza. McKee-Rodriguez has also spoken up for animal rights, spearheading an effort to ban horse-drawn carriages downtown. As Gov. Greg Abbo and his cronies continue to a ack the state’s LGBTQ+ community, roll back advances for people of color and tamp down on free speech, it’s crucial to recognize and support activists like McKee-Rodriguez who fight the good fight.
2. Robert Salcido, former executive director of Pride Center San Antonio pridecentersa.org
3. Jaycee K. Clark, model and advocate instagram.com/officialjayceek
BEST DERMATOLOGIST
Winner: Dr. Annabelle Garcia at
Sonterra Dermatology
1314 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 2201 (210) 496-5792
dermatologysanantonio.com
2. Dr. Rebecca Kelso at Alamo Heights Dermatology Multiple locations alamoheightsderm.com
3. Dr. Catherine Tisdall at Dermatology San Antonio 16110 Via Shavano (210) 615-7171 dermsanantonio.com
BEST DRAG PERFORMER / BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY
Winner: Kristi Waters instagram.com/thekristiwaters
Aformer Corpus Christi school teacher-turned fierce San Antonio queen, Kristi Waters is a perennial Best of San Antonio winner. But Best Drag Performer and Best Local Celebrity aren’t the only titles under her snatched belt. Beloved for her Lady Gaga tributes and one-woman comedy shows, the multitasking performer serves as drag mother to both Aruba Waters and San Antonio-born superstar Jorgeous, who’s currently killing it on Season 8 of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. In Waters’ latest role as a full-time show director, drag performer and DJ at Let’s Be Honest — also winner of Best New Bar — Waters rules the roost at themed drag brunches (12:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday) and shows (10:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday). Solidifying her status as a San Antonio drag legend, Waters held court as Grand Marshal of the first-ever Pride River Parade and is now the ruling Countess of the River Walk — a title she earned by helping the San Antonio River Walk and Visit San Antonio raise funds benefiting Alamo Colleges Hospitality Management scholarships.
BEST DRAG PERFORMER:
2. Anita Verga instagram.com/anita_verga_
3. Lyn-Z Andrews instagram.com/lynzandrews
BEST LOCAL CELEBRITY:
2. Lyn-Z Andrews instagram.com/lynzandrews
3. Eva Longoria evalongoriafoundation.org
BEST INSTAGRAM INFLUENCER
Winner: S.A. Foodie instagram.com/s.a.foodie
San Antonio native Amanda Spencer has a serious knack for making people hungry. A former bartender who started creating food-related content on social media a decade ago, Spencer promotes area restaurants with deftly executed photos and videos she pairs with snappy informational blurbs. When she shares her paid posts on her busy S.A. Foodie channels, they reach more than a million followers across Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Unsurprisingly, this can result in a flood of digital and in-person traffic — especially for an upstart or less-known gem. “Visiting a smaller, more local spot can absolutely do wonders for them,” Spencer told the Current. “At the same time, they could get swamped to where they can’t handle the flow. So I try to be very cautious and particular about the places I book. I want the experience to be positive and an overall success for each business.” In 2020, Spencer expanded her S.A. Foodie concept via Texas Explorer — a Lone Star State travel guide that’s already amassed 2 million followers between Instagram and TikTok alone.
2. Kristi Waters instagram.com/thekristiwaters
3. Siempre San Antonio instagram.com/siempre_sanantonio
BEST LOCAL CLOTHING DESIGNER
Winner: Hunsen Abequeer instagram.com/hunsen_abequeer
If you’ve ever a ended a Rey Lopez Entertainment showcase for a touring Drag Race star, you have likely experienced the strange magic of Hunsen Abequeer — a wildly creative trans drag performer whose name references a character from the cult cartoon Adventure Time. Impressively, Abequeer creates all his own costumes and designs for others in the local drag scene, including such seasoned queens as Taryn Taylor and Layla Larue. Selftaught save for a few basics learned from a friend, Abequeer is frequently tasked with recreating high-end runway looks. Although stylistically inspired by fashion provocateurs and gender defiers spanning from Jean Paul Gaultier to Harris Reed, he’s perhaps best known for high-drama homages to late French
icon Thierry Mugler. “I’ve had a lot of people ask me recently if I can recreate the Mugler ‘Birth of Venus’ dress, Abequeer told the Current. “It’s an archival piece from the ’90s that Cardi B wore to the Grammys in 2019. I made it for myself a few years ago, and it’s the craziest thing I’ve ever tried to make — but I succeeded. I haven’t made it for anyone else yet because it was such a daunting task. So the next time around it will be for someone very special.”
2. Gabriela Congrains congrainsdesign.com
3. Alegria instagram.com/alegria1987_
BEST LOCAL FILMMAKER
Winner: CJ Goodwyn instagram.com/cjgoodwyn
San Antonio-based filmmaker CJ Goodwyn has spent this year in post-production on his latest
film, Sherlock Holmes: Mare of the Night
The film, which he wrote and directed, follows the fictional detective as he finds himself consumed by his troubled past, all while a empting to solve one of the most important cases of his career. Goodwyn wrapped filming last November in the Hill Country and San Antonio. He hopes to start a theater tour in early 2025. “The main difference from all the other thousands of Sherlock Holmes books and movies is [that] I wanted to tell a story where the character felt real,” Goodwyn told the Current. “If he was a real person, and he spent 50 years solving crimes and murders, what would that do to someone?” Prior to Holmes, Goodwyn, 42, wrote and directed Eyes of a Roman, a 2022 action-drama about the final ba le between the armies of Spartacus and Marcus Crassus. For Goodwyn, heart and passion trump budget when making movies. “It can be really challenging to be an indie filmmaker,” he said. “You have to be patient, put in the
work, and make sure you’re telling the story you want to tell.”
2. Justin Rodriguez instagram.com/bravepicture
3. Kayla Whittaker instagram.com/kaylawhi akerr
BEST LOCAL POET
Winner: Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson instagram.com/vocabulous
2. Eddie Vega tacopoet.com
3. Daniel Escobar thedanielescobar.com
BEST LOCAL RADIO SHOW
Winner: Live On Air With Rita, KLMO-FM instagram.com/ritamariehernandez
Back in 2009, when Rita Hernandez had her first guest spot on a radio show, it immediately clicked that she was a natural for the medium. Soon after, she created her own show, Live on Air with Rita, and never looked back. Today, Hernandez, a 1993 graduate of Brackenridge High School, manages her own internet radio station and can also be seen on Roku TV. Her Inspiration 4 Life media conglomerate, which is “dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyle, education and inspiration,” also includes online magazines. “We’re very community based,” said Hernandez, 49. “We interview different celebrities in San Antonio and cover the culture and the different restaurants. It’s a li le bit of everything.”
2. Zan’s Midnight Hour, KPSARadio.com instagram.com/zans_midnight_hour
3. Urban Suite, KSYM-FM ksym.org
Courtesy of Kristi Waters
Kristi Waters
Best of SA | People
BEST MASCOT
Winner: The Coyote, San Antonio Spurs instagram.com/spurscoyote
The San Antonio Spurs Coyote is one of the top NBA mascots working on the hardwood. Sure, the wide-eyed canine gives off plenty of Wile E. vibes, but he’s smarter than his animated counterpart, who always seems to fall into the traps he sets for his roadrunner adversary. Indeed, the Coyote is so impressive that earlier this year he made headlines by using a net to capture a bat that flu ered into the Frost Bank Center during the Spurs’ matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Coyote even gets bonus points for the capture because he was rocking a Batman suit at the time. Let’s see the dopey dragon from Orlando do that.
2. Rowdy the Roadrunner, University of Texas at San Antonio instagram.com/rowdyutsa
3. Rico, Ricos Products instagram.com/ricosproducts
BEST METEOROLOGIST
Winner: Bill Taylor, KENS kens5.com
2. Adam Caskey, KSAT ksat.com
3. Sarah Spivey, KSAT ksat.com
BEST NEWS ANCHOR
Winner: Isis Romero, KENS kens5.com
Isis Romero has landed yet another BOSA win for Best News Anchor. While popular during her 10-year run at KSAT, fans really seemed to stand behind the South Texas native after she was dismissed from her longtime station and ended up at KENS. It could be the perfect hair and eye-catching wardrobe that viewers love about Romero, but we think it’s more likely they’re looking for an anchor who can bring the news, both good and bad, into their homes with a calm and professional delivery. Romero, who grew up in Robstown, started out in 2004 at KZTV in Corpus Christi. She left Texas in 2007 for a Phoenix gig, but didn’t stay away for long.
2. Steve Spriester, KSAT ksat.com
3. Sarah Forgany, KENS kens5.com
BEST PET GROOMER
Winner: Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa
Multiple locations lucysdoggydaycare.com
2. Fine Whines and Lickers Dog Bar and Spa
300 W. Bi ers Road #160 (210) 245-0519 fwldogbar.com
3. Shayla’s TopKnotch Grooming instagram.com/shaylastopknotchgrooming
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
Winner: Anthony Garcia, JojoDancer Photography and Video jojodancerphotography.com
Photographer, musician and raconteur Anthony Garcia gained considerable exposure during the pandemic by shooting expressive black-and-white portraits of members of San Antonio’s creative class, from visual artists to musicians to flamboyant scenesters. The expansive series, shared on social media, elevated Garcia’s profile, bringing new and wider appreciation to his work. Meanwhile, he continues to turn heads — both with his breathtaking visual artistry and a willingness to transform his Blue Star studio into a space to celebrate San Antonio’s music community.
2. Briney Photo brineyphoto.com
3. Boudoir by Samantha boudoirbysamantha.com
BEST PLASTIC SURGEON
Winner: Dr. Manuel A. Lopez, Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery
Multiple locations lopezplasticsurgery.com
2. Dr. Wendie Grunberg, Alluring Aesthetics 16530 Huebner Road #211 (210) 714-5390 alluringaesthetics.com
3. Dr. Delio Ortegon, San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery
4910 Golden Quail #140 (210) 614-4320
sanantoniocosmeticsurgery.net
BEST PODCAST
Winner: The Taco Stand Podcast instagram.com/thetacostandpodcastsatx
2. Drag Nights youtube.com/@danielbarragan31
3. Norteño 210 Podcast facebook.com/norteno210
BEST POLITICIAN
Winner: Ron Nirenberg sa.gov
2. Jalen McKee-Rodriguez sa.gov
3. Manny Pelaez sa.gov
BEST REALTOR
Winner: Alyssa Oliver alyssaoliver.net
2. Bonnie Hernandez facebook.com/bonnie.satx.realtor
3. Akil Robinson instagram.com/robinsonakil3drealty
BEST SPORTS PERSONALITY
Winner: Victor Wembanyama,
Victor Wembanyama
San Antonio Spurs instagram.com/wemby
San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama certainly experienced a storybook beginning. During his first year in the NBA, the French phenom averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals and a league-leading 3.6 blocks. He won NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2023-24 season and came in second in voting for Defensive Player of the Year. He was also named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team and All-Rookie First Team. In an anonymous 2024 survey taken by current NBA players, 28 percent of them named Wemby as the player they would sign first if they were building a roster from scratch, beating out three-time MVP Nikola Jokić and All-Stars Luka Dončić, Anthony Edwards and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Wemby’s trajectory is limitless. As a solid supporting cast is built around him, the Spurs should be back to competing for titles for years to come.
2. Sean Elliot, former Spur and TV sports analyst instagram.com/seanellio _32
3. Don Harris, sports anchor for News 4 San Antonio news4sanantonio.com
Instagram / Spurs
Best of SA | People
BEST STAND - UP COMIC
Winner: Alvin “A.P.” Perry instagram.com/comedianalvinperry
Alvin Perry admits he was never the class clown at Sam Houston High School. Even so, his mom frequently told him he was funny and that he should think about being a comic. Perry admired comedians he saw in movies and TV, but he had no idea how to make a living telling jokes. Later in life, he saw comedy as a way to remove himself from bad decisions that landed him behind bars. “Comedy actually saved my life,” Perry, 45, told the Current. “Once I got on stage and got that laugh, I knew I wanted to continue. So, instead of going back to the streets, I just kept on doing comedy.” Today, Perry performs at SA comedy clubs such as Laugh Out Loud and Upstage Comedy Lounge. He hopes to one day be as famous as Kevin Hart or Dave Chappelle. “I feel like I’m gonna go down as one of the greatest entertainers in San Antonio history,” he said. “I’m like the Jay-Z of comedy. For me, comedy is all mental.”
Jalen McKee-Rodriguez
2. Chona E (Joanna Estrada) instagram.com/chonae210
3. Cleto Rodriguez cletorodriguez.com
BEST VISUAL ARTIST
Winner: Ray “Tattooedboy” Scarborough ta ooedboy.com
Ray “TatooedBoy” Scarborough has managed to do the seemingly impossible: marry one of the most celebrated Pop artists, Roy Lichtenstein, with out-takes from The Walking Dead and the mythos, urban legends and accouterments that make San Antonio such a distinctive locale. U erly campy yet expertly rendered, his work doesn’t really bend genres per se. Instead, on a good day, it makes them obsolete in much the same way that Robert “Beto” Gonzales did starting in the mid ’90s.
2. Meghan Fest instagram.com/meghan.fest
3. Rigo Ortiz instagram.com/rigoortiz
Best of SA Finalists | People
Best Aesthetician
• Kristin Gonzales from Alluring Aesthetics
• Emily Horn from Magnolia Med Spa
• Sarah Evans from Nova Aesthetics
• Andee Carroll from The Injection Room
• Crosby Bailey from Beauty Wise MedSpa
Best All-Time Spurs Player
• Tim Duncan Manu Ginóbili
• David Robinson Victor Wembanyama
• Tony Parker
Best Attorney Law Office of Jesse Hernandez
• Thomas J. Henry Law
• The Hicks Law Firm
Austin Hagee Law Firm
• Nathan Cace Law
Best Chef
Ana Sofia Sada
• Andrew Weissman
Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin
• Steve McHugh David Kirkland
Best Community Activist
Jalen McKee-Rodriguez
• Robert Salcido Jaycee K. Clark
• Jeremy Sarten Sho Nakpodeia
Best Dermatologist
• Dr. Annabelle Garcia at Sonterra Dermatology
• Dr. Rebecca Kelso at Alamo Heights Dermatology
• Dr. Catherine Tisdall at Dermatology San Antonio
• Dr. Karla Munoz at Vista Dermatology
• Dr. Mary Altmeyer at Mission Dermatopathology Laboratory
Best Drag Performer
• Kristi Waters
Anita Verga
• Lyn-Z Andrews
• Pinche Villa Aysia Rawzè
Best Instagram Influencer
• s.a.foodie thekristiwaters
• siempre_sanantonio satxrated
• sanantoniomunchies
Best Local Celebrity
• Kristi Waters Lyn-Z Andrews
• Eva Longoria
The Batman of San Antonio
• Clint Belew
Best Local Clothing Designer Hunsen Abequeer
• Gabriela Congrains Alegria
• Alive by Benjamin
Best Local Filmmaker
• CJ Goodwyn
Justin Rodriguez
• Kayla Whittaker
Alec Dyer
• Jose Raul Corres
Best Local Poet
Andrea “Vocab” Sanderson
• Eddie Vega
• Daniel Escobar Cheyenne Morton
• Nephtali De Leon
Best Local Radio Show
Live On Air With Rita on KLMO
• Zan’s Midnight Hour on KPSA Urban Suite on KSYM
• PuroPedo TalkShow Chuck Vans Show on KPSA
Best Mascot Coyote, San Antonio Spurs
• Rowdy Roadrunner, UTSA Rico, Ricos Products
• Freddy the Flea, Traders Village
• Jolly Jack, Sea Island Shrimp House
Best Meteorologist
• Bill Taylor Adam Caskey
• Sarah Spivey Jeannette Calle
• Justin Horne
Best News Anchor Isis Romero, KENS
• Steve Spriester, KSAT Sarah Forgany, KENS
• Henry Ramos, KENS
• David Chancellor, WOIA
Best Pet Groomer
Lucy’s Doggy Daycare and Spa
• Fine Whines and Lickers Dog Bar and Spa
• Shayla’s TopKnotch Grooming Kate’s Pampered Pooch
• Dee’s Grooming
Best Photographer
• Anthony Garcia, JojoDancer Photography and Video
• Briney Photo
• Boudoir By Samantha
• D&A Photography
• Josh Huskin, Huskin Photo LLC
Best Plastic Surgeon
• Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery, Dr. Manuel A. Lopez
• Alluring Aesthetics, Dr. Wendie Grunberg
• San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Delio Ortegon
• Alon Aesthetics Plastic Surgery, Regina Fearmonti MD
• Baumholtz Plastic Surgery, Dr. Michael Baumholtz
Best Podcast The Taco Stand Podcast
• Drag Nights
• Norteno 210 Podcast Chuck Vans Show
• How Yoga Changed My Life
Best Politician Ron Nirenberg
• Jalen McKee Rodriguez Manny Peleaz
• Brandon Herrera Michael Stevens
Best Realtor
Alyssa Oliver
• Bonnie Hernandez Akil Robinson
• Montana Kloss
MarkAnthony Ball
Best Sports Personality
• Victor Wembanyama Sean Elliot
• Don Harris
• Nate Ryan Jason Minnix
Best Stand-Up Comic
• Alvin Perry
Chona E
• Cleto Rodriguez Tori Pool
• De La Stoner
Best Visual Artist
• Ray Tattooed Boy
Meghan Fest
• Rigo Ortiz
Michael ‘”Comp”” Arguello
• Marcos Medellin
Jade Esteban Estrada
Reflecting on this honor, Alyssa expressed deep gratitude: “I am beyond grateful to my amazing clients, whose trust and support have been instrumental in this journey. To my family, your encouragement and belief in me have been my driving force. Winning this award, especially as a female Realtor, is proof that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.”
In addition to this accolade, Alyssa has also launched her first storefront real estate office in San Antonio, marking a significant milestone in her career. This new venture not only represents her commitment to providing exceptional service but also serves as an inspiration to others in the industry.
Moreover, achieving all of this as a single mom to two wonderful boys has made this journey even more meaningful. Alyssa’s ability to balance the demands of motherhood with the challenges of a thriving real estate career is a testament to her resilience and dedication.
Alyssa’s success story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. She looks forward to continuing to serve the San Antonio community with the same dedication and excellence that earned her this remarkable recognition.
Best of SA | Services
BEST BANK / CREDIT UNION
Winner: Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Multiple locations rbfcu.org
RBFCU, headquartered in Live Oak, serves more than a million members and has 62 branches throughout Texas, making it the largest in the state — a testament to its popularity with members. Texas Monthly also ranked the credit union, which employs more than 2,300 people, as one of the state’s Best Companies to Work For, which explains the loyalty of its staff. This year, RBFCU welcomed a new CEO and president, Mark Sekula, whom board chair Edward Polansky said will “lead RBFCU to even greater heights in the future.”
2. Frost Bank Multiple locations frostbank.com
3. USAA Federal Savings Bank Multiple locations usaa.com
BEST BARBER SHOP
Winner: Fineline Barbershop Multiple locations finelinebarbershopsa.com
2. Top Tier Barber Studio 5714 NW loop 410 (210) 618-6445 instagram.com/toptierbarberstudio
3. Heavyweightz Parlor 4522 Fredericksburg Road (210) 368-2410 heavyweightzparlor.com
BEST CAR WASH
Winner: The Wash Tub Multiple locations thewashtub.com
San Antonio’s Vizza family started the full-service Wash Tub in 1986. Since then, it’s expanded to 25 locations across South and Central Texas, but it’s still in family hands. The 1,200-employee business is now run by the next generation of Vizzas, who continue to make cars sparkle and shine. Complimentary coffee, tidy waiting rooms filled with purchasable gifts and a dedication to supporting the community keep customers coming back.
2. The Bubble Bath Car Wash Multiple locations
thebubblebathcarwash.com
3. All American Car Wash Multiple locations allamericancarwash.biz
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Winner: San Antonio Family Chiropractic 9386 Huebner Road, Suite 100 (210) 699-0158 safamilychiro.com
2. The Nest Chiropractic & Wellness 506 E. Ramsey Road #5 (210) 323-2163 yoursanantoniochiropractor.com
3. Renew Texas Family Chiropractic 18830 Forty Six Parkway, Building 1, Suite B, Spring Branch (830) 327-7327 renewfamilytx.com
BEST COSMETIC SURGERY
Winner: Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery Multiple locations lopezplasticsurgery.com
2. Alluring Aesthetics
16530 Huebner Road #201 (210) 714-5390 alluringaesthetics.com
3. Alamo Plastic Surgery 19016 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 240 (210) 670-5302 alamoplasticsurgery.com
BEST CRYO THERAPY
Winner: CryoFit Alamo Heights 6486 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 375-9087 mycryofit.com
2. Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas 809 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 375-5319
sweatequitysa.com
3. Restore Hyper Wellness Multiple locations restore.com
BEST DENTIST
Winner: Kara Tapangan, Sonterra Dental
255 E. Sonterra Blvd. #150 (210) 741-8708 sonterradentalcare.com
2. Kaci Tibbetts, KLT Dentistry 3223 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102 (210) 496-5422 kltdentistry.com
3. Joseph H. Noble, Family & Cosmetic Dentisty 6609 Blanco Road #105 (210) 880-0433 nobledds.com
Facebook / The Wash Tub
Best of SA | Services
Drip IV Lounge
BEST DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE
Winner: Dermatology Associates of San Antonio Multiple locations dermsa.com
2. Sonterra Dermatology Multiple locations dermatologysanantonio.com
3. Alamo Heights Dermatology Multiple locations alamoheightsderm.com
BEST DRY CLEANER
Winner: Five Star Cleaners Multiple locations myfivestarcleaners.com
San Antonians needing laundry service are never too far from one of Five Star Cleaners’ dozen locations. All locations offer same-day service, and some even offer drive-thru services and drop boxes. For even more convenience, Five Star Cleaners also offers pick-up and delivery services in most North Side neighborhoods. Likely adding to Five Star’s popularity, it offers exclusive discounts to those who sign up for the Preferred Customer Savings Club on its website.
2. Comet Cleaners & Laundry Multiple locations cometsatx.com
3. Oak Park Cleaners Multiple locations
BEST HAIR SALON
Winner: Ysassi & Co. 2184 Jackson Keller Road (210) 849-8141 instagram.com/ysassiandcompany
2. Bixa Hair Studio 3617 Broadway, Suite 203 (210) 995-2447 bixahairstudio.com
3. Look 824 Broadway, Unit 101 (210) 826-5665 look.salon
BEST HVAC / AC / BEST PLUMBING COMPANY
Winner: Air & Plumbing Today 3615 Tavern Oaks St. (210) 519-5959 airandplumbingtoday.com
TV ads get people’s a ention, and Air & Plumbing Today’s flood of laid-back commercials peppered
with Spanish words and phrases from the cartoon spokesman “Manny” seem to resonate with our readers. The company does heating, AC and plumbing, and the operators pride themselves on offering 24/7 emergency service. In the words of cartoon Manny, whose real-life counterpart is business owner Manny Mallen, “No problema.”
BEST HVAC/AC:
2. Military City Air Conditioning and Heating 4019 Stahl Road #105 (210) 900-4232 militarycityair.com
3. Jon Wayne Service Co. Multiple locations jonwayne.com
BEST PLUMBING COMPANY:
2. Big City Plumbing LLC 4274 Gatecrest (210) 499-1010 bigcityplumbingsa.com
3. Bluebonnet Plumbing 7703 Shady Hollow Lane (210) 602-1377 bluebonnet-plumbing.com
BEST IV HYDRATION
Winner: Drip IV Lounge
1020 Navarro St. (210) 998-2348 dripivtx.com
Drip IV Lounge has bagged its sixth consecutive win in this category, suggesting it’s the business that first comes to mind when many SA residents think of IV hydration. Tambi Heines, a registered nurse with 20-plus years of experience, founded the lounge to provide affordable, effective and medically beneficial hydration services in a friendly, courteous, and relaxing environment, according to the company’s website. The downtown lounge offers a variety of treatments aimed at increasing patients’ metabolism using Vitamin B and various hydration therapies.
2. Sweat Equity Infared Saunas 809 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 375-5319 sweatequitysa.com
3. CryoFit Alamo Heights
6486 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 375-9087 mycryofit.com
Facebook / Drip IV Lounge
Best of SA | Services
NYON by Whitney
BEST LASIK PROVIDER
Winner: Parkhurst NuVision LASIK Eye Surgery 9725 Datapoint Drive, Suite 106 (210) 585-2020 sanantonio-lasik.com
2. Manrique Custom Vision Center 15900 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 20215 manriqueeye.com (210) 354-2020
3. South Texas Eye Institute Multiple locations southtexaseyeinstitute.com
BEST MOVERS
Winner: Einstein Moving Co. 3400 Nacogdoches Road, Suite 6 (210) 794-6753 einsteinmoving.com
2. 3 Men Movers
3407 Steen St. (210) 337-6683 3menmovers.com
3. All My Sons Moving & Storage
Multiple locations allmysons.com/sanantonio
BEST NAIL SALON
Winner: NYON by Whitney 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 1505 (210) 915-8346 instagram.com/nyonbywhitney
2. DidThat Hair & Nail Studio 6739 NW Loop 410, Suite 101 (210) 980-0093 didthathairandnailstudio.com
3. Luxury Nails & Spa 5545 Northwest Loop 410 #104 (210) 455-6970 facebook.com/luxury.nailsalon.sanantonio
BEST ORTHODONTIST
Winner: Hulme Orthodontics Multiple locations hulmeortho.com
2. Texas Family Orthodontics Multiple locations texasfamilyorthodontics.com
3. San Antonio Orthodontics Multiple locations sanantonioortho.com
BEST ROOFING
Winner: Roof Chiefs TX 18911 Hardy Oak Blvd. (210) 942-8162 roofchieftx.com
2. Apex Roofing & General Contractors
8131 W. Hausman Road, Suite 103 (726) 727-7663 apexroofing.biz
3. Bondoc Roofing 900 Isom Road, Suite 305 (210) 796-1096 bondocroofing.com
BEST SOLAR COMPANY
Winner: Advanced Solar & Electric 105 TX-539 Loop, Cibolo (210) 556-1399 advancedsolar.com
2. Roof Chiefs TX 18911 Hardy Oak Blvd. (210) 942-8162 roofchieftx.com
3. Solar Edge Pros 11010 Coachlight St., Suite 102 (210) 401-9030 solaredgepros.com
Instagram / nyonbywhitney
Best of SA Finalists | Services
Best Bank/Credit Union
• Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union
• Frost Bank
• USAA
• Security Service Federal Credit Union
• Firstmark Credit Union
• Texas Community Bank
Best Barber Shop
• Fineline Barbershop 1
• Top Tier Barber Studio
• Heavyweightz Parlor
• Blades Barbershop
• Hammer & Nails
Best Car Wash
• The Wash Tub
• The Bubble Bath Car Wash
• All American Car Wash
• Champions Car Wash
Best Chiropractor
• San Antonio Family Chiropractic
• The Nest Chiropractic & Wellness
• Renew Texas Family Chiropractic
• The Golab Center for Back & Joint Relief
• Moore Chiropractic
Best Cosmetic Surgery
• Advanced Aesthetics Lopez Plastic Surgery
• Alluring Aesthetics
• Alamo Plastic Surgery
• Baumholtz Plastic Surgery
• San Antonio Cosmetic Surgery
Best Cryo Therapy
• CryoFit Alamo Heights
• Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas
• Restore Hyper Wellness
• Oasis Cryo and Health Spa
• CryoFit TPC
Best Dentist
• Kara Tapangan at Sonterra Dental
• Kaci Tibbetts at KLT Dentistry
• Joseph H. Noble DDS at Family & Cosmetic Dentisty
• Alexandria Gibbs at Bandera Pointe Family Dental
• Willy Cantu at Smile Solutions
Best Dermatology Practice
• Dermatology Associates of San Antonio
• Sonterra Dermatology
• Alamo Heights Dermatology
• Dermatology San Antonio
• Texas Dermatology
Best Dry Cleaner
• Five Star Cleaners
• Comet Cleaners & Laundry
• Culpepper Cleaners
• Oak Park Cleaners
• Kraft Professional Cleaners
Best Hair Salon
• Ysassi & Co.
• Bixa Hair Studio
• Look
• Gaviota’s Hair Studio
• Hair by a Blonde
• Elena Salon Studios
Best HVAC/AC
• Air & Plumbing Today
• Military City Air Conditioning and Heating
• Jon Wayne Service Company
• Air Cantu
• SA Specialists
Best IV Hydration
• DRIP IV Lounge
• Sweat Equity Infrared Saunas
• CryoFit Alamo Heights
• The DRIPBaR Alamo Heights
• Restore Hyper Wellness
Best LASIK Provider
• Parkhurst NuVision LASIK Eye Surgery
• Manrique Custom Vision Center
• South Texas Eye Institute
• San Antonio Eye Specialist
• TLC San Antonio
Best Movers
• Einstein Moving Company
• 3 Men Movers San Antonio
• All My Sons Moving
• High-Call Delivery & Moving
• Good Ol’ Boys Packing and Moving
Best Nail Salon
• NYON by Whitney
• DidThat Hair & Nail Studio
• Luxury Nails & Spa
• Weasel’s Nail Studio
• Sunflower Nails & Spa
Best Orthodontist
• Hulme Orthodontics
• Texas Family Orthodontics
• San Antonio Orthodontics
• Heying Orthodontics
• Mission Orthodontics
Best Plumbing Company
• Air & Plumbing Today
• Big City Plumbing, LLC
• Bluebonnet Plumbing
• Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air
• Reliant Plumbing
• Pulliam Plumbing Services
Best Roofing
• Roof Chiefs TX
• Apex Roofing & General Contractors
• Bondoc Roofing
• Holden Roofing
• Alon Roofing Systems, LLC
Best Solar Company
• Advanced Solar & Electric
• Roof Chiefs TX
• Solar Edge Pros
• Texas Engineered Solar
• Solar Power Systems San Antonio
Best of SA | Around Town
BEST ART GALLERY
Winner: McNay Art Museum
6000 N. New Braunfels Ave. (210) 824-5368 mcnayart.org
While not technically an “art gallery,” the McNay Art Museum’s reader votes in this category probably shouldn’t be a total shock. The museum is extremely well-funded and boasts consistently excellent contemporary art and educational programming, not to mention perennially beautiful spaces and grounds. But this much can’t go unstated: let’s at least try to get our categories straight in next year’s voting so we can give credit where credit is due. That will help ever-struggling local galleries get the recognition they so badly deserve. For our part, we’ll strive to make the category more clear in next year’s BOSA poll.
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: Pure Barre Alamo Heights 5500 Broadway (210) 392-2380 purebarre.com/location/alamo-heights-tx
2. The Union Fitness and Fun Multiple locations theunionsa.com
3. Corefit Barre & Pilates Multiple Locations corefi x.com
BEST BOWLING ALLEY
Winner: Pinstack Multiple locations pinstackbowl.com
2. Bowlero Multiple locations bowlero.com
3. Astro Super Bowl 3203 Harry Wurzbach Road (210) 824-6348 astrosuperbowl.com
BEST CITY PARK
Winner: Brackenridge Park 3700 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 207-7275 brackenridgepark.org
2. Phil Hardberger Park 8400 NW Military Highway (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org
3. Woodlawn Park 1103 Cincinnati Ave. (210) 207-7275 sa.gov/parks
BEST COMEDY CLUB
Winner: Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club 618 NW Loop 410 #312 (210) 541-8805 improvtx.com/sanantonio
Laugh Out Loud is the only comedy club in San Antonio that books well-known comics on the regular, from San Antonio favorites such as Cristela Alonzo to right-wing assclowns Keith and Kevin Hodge, aka the Hodgetwins. That makes the venue a special place for comedy fans whose love of the genre extends beyond the superstars who can fill the Majestic Theatre or Frost Bank Center. LOL also makes room for local talent to prove they have what it takes to play in the big leagues. Upcoming LOL shows include MADtv’s Aries Spears (Aug. 1-3), Original Kings of Comedy star D.L. Hughley (Oct. 18-20) and Funny You Should Ask panelist and comic Natasha Leggero (Nov. 8-9).
2. Upstage Comedy Lounge 4441 Walzem Road (210) 562-0235 comedyclubsanantonio.com
3. House Party Improv 1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 102 (210) 369-8750 housepartyimprov.com
BEST COMMUNITY THEATER
Winner: Magik Theatre 420 S. Alamo St. (210) 227-2751 magiktheatre.org
Formed in 1994, the Magik Theatre arrived on the scene with a production of Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, which established it as a professional repertory company that stages productions both young
audiences and their families can enjoy. In 2007, the Magik passed the “one million patrons served” mark, and in 2013, that number hit 2 million, making it the most popular children’s repertory theater in the region. Upcoming productions include Roxanne Schroeder-Arce’s folksy musical Lyric & The Keys and Margery Williams’ modern take on Pinocchio, The Velveteen Rabbit
2. 100A Theater at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts 100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org/100aTheater
3. House Party Improv 1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 102 (210) 369-8750 housepartyimprov.com
BEST DOG PARK
Winner: Hops & Hounds 1119 Avenue B (210) 259-8221 hopsandhoundsllc.com
2. McAllister Park 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road (210) 207-7275 sa.gov/parks
3. Blanco Road Dog Park at Phil Hardberger Park 13203 Blanco Road (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org
BEST DRAG SHOW
Winner: SA Papis Just the Tip facebook.com/sapapis210
2. Bonham Babes 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com
3. Drag Brunch at Picks Bar 4553 N. Loop 1604 West #1101 (210) 253-9220 picksbar.com
BEST EVENT VENUE
Winner: Majestic & Empire Theatres
224 E. Houston St. and 226 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 226-5700 majesticempire.com
Built in 1929, the Majestic was one of the most modern structures of its day, and it was the first Texas building to be totally
air-conditioned. The Charline McCombs Empire Theatre is even older, originally constructed in 1914 as a Vaudeville house and later falling into disrepair as a B-movie theater. Both are now listed nationally as historic landmarks and have hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment — Bob Dylan’s 2022 San Antonio stop on his Rough & Rowdy Ways Tour, for example. Li le surprise then that organizers with an eye on history and grandeur also prize the two venues to host gatherings beyond live performances.
2. The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org
3. Boeing Center at Tech Point 3331 General Hudnell Drive (210) 600-3699 boeingcentertechport.com
BEST EYELASH STUDIO
Winner: Beauty Your Way SA 16918 Bulverde Road, Suite 120 (210) 504-6427 instagram.com/beautyyourway.sa
2. The Lash Doctor 1019 Camden St. (210) 778-4504 thelashdoctorsa.com
3. Lone Star Beauty 18730 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 202 (210) 259-5559 facebook.com/lonestarbeauty.tx
BEST FAMILY ATTRACTION
Winner: San Antonio Zoo 3903 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 734-7184 sazoo.org
Built around a menagerie of lions, monkeys, bears and buffalo that philanthropist George Washington Brackenridge gifted our city in 1914, the San Antonio Zoo is now home to upward of 3,500 beasts representing more than 750 species. Spread across 50-plus acres, the landmark a raction wows families with its cageless habitats and themed exhibits — Big Cat Valley, Asian Forest and Africa Live! to name a few — and it’s in a constant state of evolution. This year brings an expanded area to the zebras, giraffes and white rhinos of the Savanna; and 2025 promises the opening of Congo Falls, a two-acre habitat featuring a 60-foot tower for its res-
ident gorillas to climb. Internet famous for delightfully wacky concepts such as the Hippo Poop-Scented Love Candle and the annual Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser, the zoo also wins fans with up-close animal experiences — Kangaroo Crossing, Bu erfly Rainforest and Flamingo Mingle among them — and it does a commendable job with conservation efforts dedicated to species including the Texas horned lizard.
2. The DoSeum 2800 Broadway (210) 212-4453 thedoseum.org
3. Morgan’s Wonderland 5223 David Edwards Drive (210) 495-5888 morganswonderland.org
BEST FITNESS STUDIO
Winner: JKFitness 17006 San Pedro Ave. (210) 888-2092 jk-fit.com
You run. You lift. You try to eat right. But nothing seems to work. It’s understandable why so many people seek help when it comes to ge ing fit. JKFitness distinguishes itself by helping members develop a personalized plan that lets them leave one-size-fits-all gym workouts behind.
All of the business’ trainers are certified, and there’s a registered dietician on staff. Whether you’re looking to become stronger, more flexible, lose weight or increase your endurance, JKFitness is ready to help.
2. Amor Cycling Studio + Fitness Multiple locations amorcyclingstudio.com
3. River City Strength 2211 NW Military Highway #128 (210) 862-8706 rivercity-strength.com
BEST HOSPITAL
Winner: University Hospital 4502 Medical Drive (210) 358-4000 universityhealth.com/locations/university-hospital
2. Methodist Hospital 7700 Floyd Curl Drive (210) 575-4000 sahealth.com/locations/methodist-hospital
3. Methodist Stone Oak Hospital 1139 E. Sonterra Blvd. (210) 638-2000 sahealth.com/locations/methodist-hospital-stone-oak
INITIATIVE
Winner: San Antonio Economic Development Department – Buy Local San Antonio buylocal.sanantonio.gov
Shopping local is something every chamber of commerce tries to promote, but it only goes so far if folks have a hard time finding local products and services. The City of San Antonio has created an easy solution that puts SA-based businesses on consumers’ radar screens. Just register at the city’s Buy Local website to unlock discounts at restaurants, bars, spas, specialty shops and other businesses that are unique to the Alamo City. Here’s why that ma ers: when you shop locally, more of the money you spend stays in town in the form of salaries, inventory, sales tax and more.
2. San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition (210) 877-9067 sanantonioferalcats.org
3. The Tobin Center – Arts For All 100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org/artsforall
BEST MED SPA / BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED Winner: Magnolia Medical and Aesthetics 19141 Stone Oak Parkway #504
(210) 600-3335 magnoliamedskin.com
Readers chose Magnolia Medical and Aesthetics as their favorite spot for serious self-care. With a range of aesthetic offerings, from fillers to facials, this full-service medspa is all about helping clients look and feel their best. Popular treatments include hydrafacials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion and waxing. Magnolia also offers a range of medical services including medical weight loss, acne treatment and even cancer screenings.
BEST MED SPA:
2. L Med Spa
Multiple locations lopezplasticsurgery.com
3. The Injection Room
Multiple locations theinjectionroom.com
BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED:
2. Beauty Haus 119 Heiman St., Suite 300 (210) 600-3373 facebook.com/beautyhaussa
3. Massage Therapy by Krissy 10615 Perrin Beitel Road, Suite 301 (210) 391-7588 massagetherapybykrissy.com
McNay Art Museum
Instagram / mcnayart
Best of SA | Around Town
BEST MOVIE THEATER
Winner: Alamo Drafthouse Park North
618 NW Loop 410, Suite 307 (210) 729-9293 drafthouse.com
Alamo Drafthouse’s Park North location, one of the chain’s two San Antonio properties, has been a favorite of cinema buffs since its 2009 opening. The theater, which has 35mm film capabilities, features eight auditoriums that seat a total of nearly 1,000 guests. Beyond that, plenty of people enjoy the Drafthouse’s movie-plus-refreshments concept. The bar boasts 30 beers on tap along with wine and handcrafted cocktails. The food menu includes film-inspired fare such as the Royale with Cheese (Pulp Fiction, anyone?). It’s too bad the place’s milkshakes aren’t $5, though. Who knew in 1994 that a Five Dollar Shake would be a bargain?
2. Santikos Palladium
17703 I-10 West (877) 691-0734 santikos.com
3. Flix Brewhouse
845 Loop 1604 South (726) 800-7500 flixbrewhouse.com
BEST MURAL
Winner: Wemby by Michael Sanchez 1624 E. Commerce St.
2. Por Vida by Andy Benavides Corner of Navarro and Houston streets
3. Mario Bros Mural at Level Up Bike Shop 1409 E. Commerce St., Space C
BEST MUSEUM
Winner: Witte Museum 3801 Broadway (210) 357-1900 wi emuseum.org
Aperennial family friendly favorite located between the Pearl and Alamo Heights on Broadway, the Wi e Museum is known for both its natural history dioramas and its blockbuster traveling exhibits. Do your kids love dinosaurs? Check. Outer space? Check. Are they really, truly interested in how native peoples lived before the arrival of Europeans? Yep, the Wi e can help there too. Here’s a bonus: if your kids are li le and need
Magik Theatre
to get their ya-yas out in a three-story, interactive, science-oriented treehouse, the Wi e’s also got you covered.
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 / BEST PET ADOPTION
Winner: San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition (210) 877-9067 sanantonioferalcats.org
San Antonio has a stray animal problem. Indeed, Bexar County is home to more than 250,000 unhoused felines, according to the San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition. Clearly, plenty of Current readers see value in the nonprofit’s efforts to lower that number and improve the lives of the area’s cat population. Contrary to popular belief, the SAFCC doesn’t trap, spay, and neuter the city’s free-roaming felines. Instead, the group’s volunteers provide resources such as cages, carriers, information and resources to residents who want to help capture and fix the strays in their neighborhoods. The
SAFCC also helps facilitate adoptions and reunites owners with lost pets in collaboration with Petco Love Lost.
BEST NONPROFIT
ORGANIZATION:
2. San Antonio Food Bank 5200 Historic Old Highway 90 West (210) 337-3663 safoodbank.org
3. Breathe for Wellness Functional Breathing Foundation 3030 Thousand Oaks Drive, Suite 102 (210) 799-0176 breatheforwellnessfoundation.org
BEST PET ADOPTION: 2. San Antonio Pets Alive Multiple locations sanantoniopetsalive.org
3. Animal Defense League of Texas Multiple locations adltexas.org
BEST PATIO
Winner: Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen 103 E. Jones Ave. (210) 201-5595 elsewheretexas.com
2. The Cove 606 W. Cypress St. (210) 227-2683 thecove.us
3. Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine 20079 Stone Oak Parkway #4100 (210) 494-0561 aldacosrestaurants.com
BEST PET BOARDING
Winner: Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa Multiple locations 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 (210) 923-8618 twistedta ootx.com
3. Dandyland Custom Tattoo & Piercing 1620 Fredericksburg Road (210) 432-5747 dandylandta oo.com
Best of SA | Around Town
BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH / BEST PLACE TO WATCH A MOVIE OUTSIDE
Winner: The Pearl 200 E. Grayson St. (210) 212-7260 atpearl.com
San Antonio’s Pearl development offers no shortage of options for those who get a kick out of observing from afar. From the greenspace near the Bo ling Department Food Hall to the many restaurants with outdoor seating to the recently opened Pullman Market, there are plenty of spots to take a seat, grab a drink and marvel at the idiosyncratic nature of the human animal. The Pearl’s popularity as a shopping, dining and gawking destination certainly offers plenty of human animals to choose from. And why not? Studies show that people watching improves observational skills, fuels creativity and enhances empathy — things we could improve on in these fucked-up times. For those who’d rather take a pass on people watching, the Pearl also offers Movie Mondays screenings in partnership with Slab Cinema.
BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH:
2. The San Antonio River Walk thesanantonioriverwalk.com
3. Traders Village 9333 SW Loop 410 (210) 623-8383 tradersvillage.com/san-antonio
BEST PLACE TO WATCH A MOVIE OUTSIDE:
2. Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theater 1178 Kroesche Lane, New Braunfels (830) 620-7469 driveinusa.com
3. Mission Marquee Plaza 3100 Roosevelt Ave. (210) 207-8612 missionmarquee.com
BEST PLACE TO WORK
Winner: H-E-B Multiple locations heb.com
In recent years, Glassdoor, Forbes and others have praised H-E-B as one of the nation’s best places to work. Apparently, Current readers concur. Whether in retail, manufacturing, warehousing, transportation or corporate functions, San Antonio’s go-
to grocer offers plenty of opportunities to move up the chain of command in a relatively short time, according to current and former employees. H-E-B even has its own podcast where partners share their journey with the company. Some share stories about loyally working at the same store for 30-plus years. “Here everything’s be er,” the company likes to say in its ads — apparently that slogan applies to being on its payroll as well.
2. University Health System Multiple Locations universityhealth.com
3. The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts 100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org
BEST PLAYGROUND
Winner: Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair
434 S. Alamo St. (210) 709-4750 hemisfair.org/the-parks/yanaguana-garden
Clearly, many parents in Reader Land are grateful for the presence of Yanaguana Garden. Kids can spend hours climbing a variety of play structures, frolicking on the splash pad, digging through sand, climbing on anything and everything — and, in the process, generally wearing themselves out. The equipment is adaptive, so young ones of all abilities can find fun ways to occupy themselves with activities that
Majestic Theatre
allow parents a li le breathing room. Relax under a thick, shaded canopy with access to nearby adult beverages, food and cold desserts.
2. The DoSeum 2800 Broadway (210) 212-4453 thedoseum.org
3. Phil Hardberger Park 8400 NW Military Highway (210) 492-7472 philhardbergerpark.org
BEST PRESCHOOL / DAYCARE
Winner: Imagination Child Development Center Multiple locations
2. The Pineapple School Multiple locations thepineappleschool.com
3. The Pillars Christian Learning Centers Multiple locations thepillarsclc.com
BEST SALSA DANCE COMPANY
Winner: Esta Noche Dance Co.
7007 Bandera Road, Suite 10 (210) 797-6292 estanochedance.com
2. La Rumba Dance Studio 19903 Stone Oak Parkway #204 (404) 394-3175 larumbadancestudio.com
3. Framboyan Dance Studio
6504 Bandera Road #2 (210) 782-0437 framboyan.com
BEST SPA
Winner: Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness 16641 La Cantera Parkway (210) 558-2252 lomadevidaspa.com
This La Cantera spa offers a luxury retreat at one of San Antonio’s highest points, overlooking the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. For a romantic date, take in the views from a cowboy tub for two on the Sky Loft patio while sharing a bo le of Moët Chandon before a couples’ massage. The spa even offers an array of CBD-infused services, including CBD facials, massages and the Destress Together couples’ package. During that two-hour immersive experience, couples can soak in a CBD-infused botanical bath and feed each other CBD chocolates while “evocative guitar plays softly in the distance.” Loma de Vida also caters to expecting moms with belly massages and a “Happy Belly” facial designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
2. Hiatus Spa & Retreat
312 Pearl Parkway, Building 4, Suite 4112 (210) 202-3355 hiatusspa.com
3. Mokara Spa 212 W. Crocke St. (210) 396-5840 omnihotels.com/hotels/san-antonio-mokara/spa
Courtesy Photo / Majestic Theatre
Best of SA | Around Town
BEST SUSTAINABLE / ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY BUSINESS
Winner: Alamo Beer Co. 202 Lamar St. (210) 872-5589 alamobeer.com
2. Pharm Table
611 S. Presa St., Suite 106 (210) 802-1860 pharmtable.com
3. The Nectar Bar 14732 Bulverde Road (210) 844-2381 facebook.com/thenectarbar
BEST TANNING SALON
Winner: Confidence by Mariah Ashlen
946 N. Loop 1604 West, Suite 114 (443) 351-4995 confidencebyma.com
Calling Confidence by Mariah Ashlen a “tanning salon” is an understatement. Sure, Ashlen, the business’ founder and operator, started with spray tans, but she’s since expanded into offering facials, teeth whitening, brow tints, brow lamination and waxing. In case you wondered, she’s a master-certified spray tan technician, a licensed esthetician and a teeth whitening specialist. Clients may walk in pale, bushy and afraid to smile, but Confidence’s win in this category suggests those same folks leave tanned, smooth and confident.
2. Glow on the Go Tan SA vickidfitnesstherapy.com/tanning-services
3. Golden Hour Tan
18771 FM 2252, Building 14 (210) 972-0298 goldenhourtantx.com
BEST TATTOO SHOP
Winner: Twisted Tattoo 1031 Patricia Drive, Suite 100 (210) 923-8618 twistedta ootx.com
Not only is Twisted Ta oo known for quality ink, it also boasts an inspirational origin story. Owner James Delgado started ta ooing decades ago as means to climb out of poverty while he was living on the street. In 2005, he was able to open a brickand-mortar location, which has clearly
built an abundance of support from San Antonio’s ta oo community. This shop prides itself on meeting the needs of every customer, whether they’re after something colorful, a design employing intricate black-and-gray shading, traditional art or something tribal. From feminine florals to creepy Death’s-head moths, Twisted Ta oo prides itself on making permanent anything its clientele can dream up.
2. Nite Owl Tattoo Studio
Multiple locations niteowlta oostudio.com
3. Ink Couture Tattoos
Multiple locations inkcoutureta oos.com
BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION
Winner: The San Antonio Rive Walk thesanantonioriverwalk.com
2. The Pearl
303 Pearl Pkwy (210) 212-7260 atpearl.com
3. The Alamo 300 Alamo Plaza (210) 225-1391 thealamo.org
BEST URBAN LEGEND Winner: Ghost Tracks
2. La Llorona
3. Miss Taint
BEST URGENT CARE CENTER
Winner: Texas MedClinic Multiple locations texasmedclinic.com
The emergency room is the last place you want to go for a non-life-threatening injury or illness. Urgent care is a be er option, and clearly plenty of readers consider Texas MedClinic the best local choice. The medical group operates 18 locations around San Antonio, three of them open 24 hours. Visitors see real doctors and real nurses, and they receive services for substantially less than they’d pay at an ER. Minor burns, sprains, strains, broken bones and the flu are well within Texas MedClinic’s wheelhouse.
2. Methodist Urgent Care Multiple locations sahealth.com/specialties/urgent-care
3. Complete Care Multiple locations visitcompletecare.com
BEST VIEW Winner: Tower of the Americas 739 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. (210) 223-3101 toweroftheamericas.com
2. The Moon’s Daughters 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com
3. 1Watson 111 Soledad St. (210) 222-8300 1watsonrooftop.com
BEST YOGA STUDIO Winner: Black Swan Yoga Multiple locations blackswanyoga.com
2. Method Wellness and Physical Therapy 4726 Shavano Oak #101 (210) 526-2428 methodwellnesspt.com
3. Pure Prana Path 2015 NE Loop 410 (210) 796-5776 purepranapath.com
•
Best of SA Finalists | Around Town
• San Antonio Growth on the Eastside (SAGE)
• LiftFund
Best Med Spa
• Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics
• L Med Spa
• The Injection Room
• Nova Aethetics
• DermaTouch RN • 4Ever Young Anti Aging Solutions
Best Movie Theater
• Alamo Drafthouse Park North • Santikos Palladium
• Flix Brewhouse • Santikos Casa Blanca
• Santikos Embassy
Best Mural
• Wemby by Michael Sanchez • Por Vida by Andy Benavides at Navarro and Houston
• Mario Bros Mural at Level Up Bike Shop
• Pase Usted by Carlos Rosales-Silva at SAMA
• Thank You TD by Mike Comp
Best Museum
• Witte Museum
• The McNay Art Museum
• San Antonio Museum of Art
• The DoSeum
• Hopscotch
• Briscoe Western Art Museum
Best Nonprofit Organization
• San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition
• San Antonio Food Bank
• Breathe for Wellness Functional Breathing Foundation
• SA Youth
• Radical Registrars
• Hope Hits Harder
Best Patio
• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
• The Cove
• Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine
• La Hacienda Scenic Loop
• Sabor CocinaBar
• Künstler Brewing
Best Pet Adoption
• San Antonio Feral Cat Coalition
• San Antonio Pets Alive
• Animal Defense League of Texas
• SNIPSA
• God’s Dogs Rescue
• Charming Pet Rescue
Best Pet Boarding
• Lucy’s Doggy Daycare & Spa
• Camp Bow Wow
• Pup Pup & Away
• Rob Cary Pet Resort
• The Palms Pet Resort & Spa
Best Piercing Studio
• Buddha Box Studios
• Twisted Tattoo
• Dandyland Custom Tattoo and Piercing
• Ink & Iron Tattoos & Piercings
• Ink Couture Tattoos
• Beauty Haus
Best Place to Get Pampered
• Magnolia Medical & Aesthetics
• Beauty Haus
• Massage Therapy by Krissy
• Alluring Aesthetics
• Loma de Vida Spa
• Pampered Wellness Recovery Home
Best Place to People Watch
• The Pearl
• The San Antonio River Walk
• Traders Village
• Hemisfair
• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
• North Star Mall
Best Place to Watch a Movie Outside
• The Pearl
• Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre
• Mission Marquee Plaza
• The Tobin Center
• Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair
• Legacy Park
Best Place to Work
• H-E-B
• University Health System
• The Tobin Center
• Ricos Products
• Sea Island Shrimp House
• Parkhurst NuVision
Best Playground
• Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair
• The DoSeum
• Phil Hardberger park
• Pearsall Park
• The Greenline Park at Brooks
• Jumpy Land
Best Preschool/Daycare
• Imagination Child Development Center
• The Pineapple School
• The Pillars Christian Learning Centers
• Mi Casa Child Center
• Discovery World Learning Center
• Madison Square Child Development Center
Best Salsa Dance Company
• Esta Noche Dance Company
• La Rumba Dance Studio
• Framboyan Dance Studio
• Semeneya
• Salsa On2 School
Best Spa
• Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness
• Hiatus Spa + Retreat
• Mokara Spa
• Spa at Cibolo Canyon
• Lantana Spa
• Zhen Day Spa & Beauty
Best Sustainable/ Environmentally Friendly Business
• Alamo Beer Company
• Pharm Table
• The Nectar Bar
• Two Hoes Gardening
• Revolution Refillery
• Sacred Ritual Tattoo Studio
Best Tanning Salon
• Confidence by Mariah Ashlen
• Glow on the Go Tan SA
• Golden Hour Tan
• TonicTan
• Bare Sunless
Best Tattoo Shop
• Twisted Tattoo
• Nite Owl Tattoo Studio
• Ink Couture Tattoos
• Ink & Iron Tattoos
• Dandyland Tattoo and Piercing
• Nostalgic Ink Tattoo Studio
• Buddha Box Studios
Best Tourist Attraction
• The San Antonio River Walk
• The Pearl
• The Alamo
• San Antonio Museum of Art
• Magik Theatre
• Briscoe Western Art Museum
Best Urban Legend
• Ghost Tracks
• La llorona
• Miss Taint
• Donkey Lady Bridge
• The Lambermount
Best Urgent Care Center
• Texas MedClinic
• Methodist Urgent Care
• Complete Care
• Next Level Urgent Care
• Alamo Urgent Care
• MedBerry Clinic
Best View
• The Tower of Americas
• The Moon’s Daughters
• 1Watson
• Paramour
• San Antonio Texas Temple
Best Yoga Studio
• Black Swan Yoga
• Method Wellness and Physical Therapy
• Pure Prana Path
• Blue Heart Studio
• Yoga Shala of San Antonio
• Geekdom - LaunchSA
for All
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 racking up BOSA wins in this category since its 2020 opening. Clearly, readers haven’t lost any love for its welcoming atmosphere, extensive selection of beers and seltzers, cut-above pub grub and relaxing yet funky digs along the San Antonio River. Need an icebreaker? Join a supersized game of Connect Four or Jenga. Just wanna kick back and chill? Take in the aerial acrobatics show or fire dancers, depending on what night you show up. Elsewhere’s Sunday Funday events include live music from 3-6 p.m. alongside bar games, brunch, lunch, and cold drinks.
BEST BAR:
2. Chiflada’s Cocktail Bar 1804 W. Martin St. instagram.com/chifladas_sa
3. Bar Loretta
320 Beauregard St. (210) 757-3607 barlore a.com
BEST SUNDAY FUN DAY:
2. The Bonham Exchange 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com
3. Picks Bar
4553 N. Loop 1604 West #1101 (210) 253-9220 picksbar.com
BEST BAR FOOD
Winner: Bar Loretta 320 Beauregard St. (210) 757-3607 barlore a.com
Although Bar Lore a may be be er known for date-night dining, this spot in the heart of the King William District also boasts a kick-ass bar scene, complete with top-notch bar food to go along with its stellar cocktails and cool vibes. The restaurant’s Bar Bites menu, served from 4 p.m.-1 a.m. seven days a week, offers approachable but impeccably prepared selections including steak frites, cumin rock shrimp and crispy Brussels sprouts that give late-night
partiers burnt out on street tacos and Whataburger something more elevated to accompany their carousing.
2. The Esquire Tavern 155 E. Commerce St. (210) 222-2521 esquiretavern-sa.com
3. The Cottage Irish Pub 3810 Broadway (210) 463-9111 theco ageirishpub.com
BEST BAR GAMES / BEST
SPORTS BAR / BEST HAPPY
HOUR
Winner: Slackers Bar SA Multiple locations slackersbars.com
San Antonio’s Slackers chain was the only Nightlife winner to rack up victories in three separate categories. We’re guessing the regular beer pong tournaments with a $100 prize contribute heavily to the win in the Best Bar Games category, and all five Slackers locations have the requisite TV screens and enthusiastic crowds to make them faves for those who want to imbibe while taking in a sporting event. The chain’s Margarita Mondays and deep happy hour discounts on well drinks and domestic beers also apparently hit the spot.
BAR GAMES:
2. Little Woodrow’s Multiple locations li lewoodrows.com
3. Black Potion
1900 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 101 (210) 369-8750 facebook.com/blackpotionsatx
SPORTS BAR:
2. The Bend Sport Bar 7730 Bandera Road (210) 290-8138 bendsportsbar.com
3. The Roo Pub 19314 U.S. Highway 281 (210) 491-4425 roopub.com
HAPPY HOUR:
2. Hanzo 7701 Broadway, Suite 124 (210) 826-1488 hanzobar.com
3. Francis Bogside
1170 E. Commerce St., Suite 100 (210) 314-2994 francisbogside.com
BEST BARTENDER
Winner: Fernanda Sabag (Bonham Exchange)
2. Vikki Buchanan (Heat)
3. Mike Salcido (The SA Country Saloon)
BEST BLOODY MARY
Winner: Liberty Bar 1111 S. Alamo St. (210) 227-1187 liberty-bar.com
2. Social Spot 930 Broadway (210) 263-9009 facebook.com/socialspotsatx
3. The Pigpen Neighborhood Bar 106 Pershing Ave. (210) 267-9136 thepigpensa.com
BEST COCKTAIL BAR AND COCKTAILS
Winner: The Modernist 516 E. Grayson St. facebook.com/themodernistsa
2. George’s Keep 17101 La Cantera Terrace (210) 310-3733 georgeskeep.com
3. Amelia Social Lounge 875 E. Ashby Place, Suite 1120 ameliasatx.com
BEST COUNTRY BAR
Winner: Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon 2335 NW Military Highway (210) 348-1513 thirstyhorse.net
Although the Lonesome Rose remains a downtown-area favorite, Thirsty Horse is the Clydesdale to the Rose’s Mustang. The supersized Northwest Military Highway C&W bar is enough to make you hoot and/or holler thanks to its abundance of pool tables, numerous TVs tuned to sports games and an expansive dance floor. Like any good saloon, drinks are cheap, with beer going for $3 and well liquors running $4. Of course, there’s also live music Wednesday through Sunday, on both an indoor and out-
door stage. And if it makes you want to do more than tap your toe, you can learn how to two-step at free dance lessons, offered 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. Just be forewarned: there’s a strictly enforced dress code on weekends, so best swap the athleisure a ire for some Daisy Dukes.
2. The Lonesome Rose
2114 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 455-0233 thelonesomerose.com
3. The SA Country Saloon 1134 W. Hildebrand Ave. (210) 393-0050 facebook.com/sacountrysaloon
BEST CRAFT BEER SELECTION Winner: Burleson Yard Beer Garden
430 Austin St. (210) 354-3001 burlesonyardbeergarden.com
When it comes to good beer, Burleson Yard proves there’s no wrong side of the tracks. This near East Side nightspot boasts a brewery on one side and also a rail line not far away. Ample parking, a huge beer garden with outdoor games and good food are all a plus, but it’s the beer selection that keeps revelers coming back. Texas brews account for roughly half the 20 taps and additional dozens more in cans and bo les. The mix includes both crowd pleasers and niche beers that will satisfy the thrill seekers. The ownership shakes up the selection based on conversations with customers and breweries, guaranteeing to keep things fresh. Happy hours, which run from opening until 7 p.m. include the ubiquitous lager Montucky Cold Snacks for $3.75.
2. Growler Exchange Multiple locations thegrowlerexchange-sa.com
3. The Hoppy Monk
1010 N. Loop 1604 East (210) 545-3330 thehoppymonk.com
BEST DANCE CLUB / BEST GAY BAR
Winner: The Bonham Exchange 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com
BEST DANCE CLUB:
La Tuna
2. Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon 2335 NW Military Highway (210) 348-1513 thirstyhorse.net
3. Maeve 818 Austin St. maevesa.com
BEST GAY BAR:
2. Let’s Be Honest
1602 N. Main Ave. (210) 629-5141 instagram.com/letsbehonestsatx
3. Sparky’s Pub 1416 N. Main Ave. (210) 320-5111 sparkyspub.com
BEST DIVE BAR
Winner: Bang Bang Bar 119 El Mio Drive (210) 320-1187 thebangbangbartx.com
Like all the best dives, the Bang Bang Bar feels like your place the first time you walk through the door. The staff is friendly, and the patrons — generally found nestled into the vintage furniture sca ered through the space or hovering around the retro diversions tucked into its game room — are as chill as the drinks. Although many were sad to see the Bang Bang phase out live music, its rock ’n’ roll spirit remains on full display.
2. Finnegan’s Sports &
Spirits 16260 San Pedro Ave (210) 495-4717 facebook.com/FinnegansSanAntonio
3. The Mix 2423 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 735-1313 themixsa.com
BEST DRINK SPECIALS / CHEAP DRINKS
Winner: La Tuna Ice House 100 Probandt St. (210) 224-8862 latunasa.com
The drink prices at La Tuna may make you mistakenly think you time shifted back to 2019. To start, the Southtown ice house offers
a rotating selection of $3 craft beer cans daily — and by “craft beer,” we’re actually talking about IPAs and other all-barley brews that could run $10 or more at other bars. But that’s just the beginning. Shots and cocktails, including margaritas, run $6 daily from 4-6 p.m., and all beer is just $3 daily until 5 p.m. No wonder so many bo le caps have been popped under the large oak trees at La Tuna.
2. Hanzo 7701 Broadway, Suite 124 (210) 826-1488 hanzobar.com
3. Double Standard 114 E Houston St. (210) 977-0005 doublestandardsatx.com
Michael Karlis
Best of SA | Nightlife
BEST HOOKAH BAR
Winner: Shisha Cafe 5500 Babcock Road #101 (210) 694-4800 shishacafesa.com
2. Naara Cafe & Hookah 9329 Wurzbach Road (210) 558-9800 naaracafe.com
3. Habibi Cafe 5306 Broadway (210) 437-0242 facebook.com/heightshookahcafesa
BEST HOTEL BAR
Winner: Sternewirth Tavern & Club Room
136 E. Grayson St. (210) 223-7375
thehotelemma.com/culinary/sternewirth
Agreat hotel bar tends to have playful or elegant vibes. Sternewirth at the Pearl’s Hotel Emma goes in a completely different direction by mixing the heavy, decorative touches of the Gilded Age with industrial-chic vibes. Despite the low lighting, a closer look wipes away any potential stuffiness. Some of seating is inside huge tanks that once held beer back when the Pearl was a brewery. Other decor elements are heavy machinery parts scavenged from the site, which made suds from 1883 to 2001. The drink names are also a nod and sometimes a wink to the history of the place.
2. The Moon’s Daughter at Thompson Hotel 115 Lexington Ave. (210) 942-6032 themoonsdaughters.com
3. Ocho at Hotel Havana 1015 Navarro St. (210) 222-2008 havanasanantonio.com
BEST ICE HOUSE / BEST MICHELADAS
Winner: The Friendly Spot 943 S. Alamo St. (210) 224-2337 thefriendlyspot.com
Si ing outside on metal patio furniture in San Antonio heat may sound nuts until you’ve done it at The Friendly Spot. The canopy of pecan trees and umbrellas keep the sun off your brow — and other sensitive
The Friendly Spot
spots. The wide variety of taps, bo les and cans will slake your thirst, and the bar nibbles are tasty too. The win in the Best Micheladas category should also say something about the The Friendly Spot’s deftness with that South Texas thirst quencher. In the end, The Friendly Spot continues to win the Ice House category based on its approachability. Stroll into the shaded oasis, enjoy some cold ones, make new friends then mosey on — or make a night of it. It’s that kind of place. And, yes, kids and dogs are welcome.
BEST ICE HOUSE: 2. Wurzbach Ice House
10141 Wurzbach Road (210) 877-2100 wurzbachicehouse.com
3. La Tuna Icehouse 100 Probandt St. (210) 224-8862 latunasa.com
BEST MICHELADAS:
2. Chiflada’s Cocktail Bar 1804 W. Martin St. instagram.com/chifladas_sa
3. Liberty Bar 1111 S. Alamo St. (210) 227-1187
liberty-bar.com
BEST KARAOKE BAR
Winner: Dad’s Karaoke 2615 Mossrock Drive (210) 267-5703 facebook.com/dadskaraoke
2. The Bonham Exchange 411 Bonham St. (210) 224-9219 bonhamexchange.com
3. Thirsty Horse Saloon 2335 NW Military Highway (210) 348-1513 thirstyhorse.net
Sanford Nowlin
Best of SA | Nightlife
BEST LOCAL BREWERY
Winner: Freetail Brewing Co.
4035 N. Loop 1604 West (210) 625-6000 freetailbrewing.com
San Antonio’s second-oldest operating brewpub was founded in 2008, and it’s hooked local imbibers ever since. This is the second year in a row that readers have tapped the stalwart maker of numerous award-winning beers, including solid favorites such as the original Torpor Porter. The original Freetail Brewpub at Loop 1604 and Northwest Military Drive has a brewing setup for smaller-batch brews and also carries year-round and seasonal beers from the business’ production brewery on South Presa. Both locations now feature the brewery’s signature pizzas. Although Freetail is for sale and there were some layoffs at the top recently, it remains a fan favorite by having something to offer everyone. The Puro Pils and Bat Ou a Helles Bavarian-style light lager appeal to fans of lighter styles. Meanwhile, Soul Doubt IPA is a perennial favorite for those who like the hops, and Bowie Bock is suited those who like their brews on the stronger side. Watch for Great American Beer Festival award-winners La Muerta imperial stout and an “imperial” pilsner with a crazy name: Imagine a World With Beer Cellars Instead of 401Ks.
2. Man Overboard Brewing Co. 1203 Camden St. (210) 290-8474 manoverboard.beer
3. Dos Sirenos Brewing
231 E. Cevallos St. (210) 442-8138 dossirenosbrewing.com
BEST MARGARITAS
Winner: El Mirasol Multiple Locations elmirasolsa.com
2. La Gloria
100 E. Grayson St. (210) 267-9040 che ohnnyhernandez.com/la-gloriapearl
3. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar 722 S. St. Mary’s St. (210) 223-1806 rosariossa.com
BEST MUSIC VENUE
Winner: Boeing Center at Tech Port
3331 General Hudnell Drive (210) 600-3699 boeingcentertechport.com
While San Antonio has a wealth of venues with loads of character and charm, readers have clearly taken a shine to Boeing Center at Tech Port, the city’s flashy newcomer. And with good reason. The $70 million facility features state-of-theart sound and design, not to mention ample bars and a food hall full of locally owned restaurants for those looking to grab dinner before the show. At 3,200 seats, the Boeing Center also hits a sweet spot between more intimate spaces including Stable Hall and massive arenas such as the Frost Bank Center. No doubt helping the Boeing Center secure the top slot, the venue’s hosted a slate of banging concerts since it opened in summer 2022, from Smashing Pumpkins to a two-night stand by old-school SA favorites Judas Priest.
2. Tobin Center for the Performing Arts 100 Auditorium Circle (210) 223-8624 tobincenter.org
3. Majestic Theatre 224 E. Houston St. (210) 226-5700 majesticempire.com
Winner: Let’s Be Honest 1602 N. Main Ave. (210) 629-5141 instagram.com/letsbehonestsatx
Beckoning to passersby with a spacious patio decked out with Astroturf, bar games and flatscreen TVs, Let’s Be Honest could almost pass for a straight-ass beer garden save for its rainbow-striped exterior and a cheeky moniker that nods to lesbian culture. Opened last October in the refurbished shell of an anonymous office building along the Main Strip, the refreshingly casual gay bar gets the point across inside via disco vibes, Instagrammable wall treatments and an unmissable red neon sign featuring angel wings and a welcome message of “Let’s Be Honest! I Love Who I am! So fuck Off BIITCH!!!” With Best of San Antonio multi-winner Kristi Waters as head bitch in charge, the new nightspot has become a hotbed for drag, hosting regular shows (10:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday), all-day drag brunches (from 12:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday) and the drag king troupe SA Papis’ signature party Just the Tip. If the potent cocktails catch up with you, scan the handy QR code on any table to order hearty bar bites from the resident food truck Savory Tastes by Chi.
2. Maeve
818 Austin St. maevesa.com
3. Amelia Social Lounge
875 E. Ashby Place, Suite 1120 ameliasatx.com
BEST WINE BAR
Winner: Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
19141 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 704 (210) 495-2672 thecopawinebar.com
Stone Oak’s Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room started back in the day as a wine and liquor store. However, owners Jeff and Angie Bridges, who are also responsible for Fiesta’s popular Taste of the Northside event, clearly had bigger ambitions. They have grown Copa into a beloved spot for wine lovers to gather with friends for good conversation and an extensive and varied vino list featuring foreign, domestic and sparkling options, along with a few unexpected wine cocktails. Those feeling antisocial can even take home a gallon of house-made sangria. Take advantage of the happy hour, which $6 glasses of wine from 3-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
2. Little Death
2327 N. St. Mary’s St. (210) 264-6472 li ledeathwine.com
3. High Street Wine Co.
302 Pearl Parkway, Unit 104 (210) 908-9144 highstreetwine.com
Bryan Rindfuss
Best of SA | Nightlife
Best of SA Finalists | Nightlife
Best Bar
•
• Chiflada’s Cocktail
• Bar Loretta
• Maeve
•
•
•
•
• The Esquire Tavern
•
• Amelia Social Lounge
Best Bar Games
• Slackers Sports Bar
• Little Woodrow’s
• Black Potion
• Maeve
• Thirsty Horse Saloon
• Fiasco Cocktails & Sports Bar
Best Bartender
• Fernanda Sabag, The Bonham
• Vikki Buchanan, Heat
• Mike Salcido, The SA Counrty Saloon
• Mary Kruse, Thirsty Horse Saloon
• Michael Phillips, The Moon’s Daughters
• Mary, Kung Fu Saloon
Best Bloody Mary
• Liberty Bar
• Social Spot
• The Pigpen Neighborhood Bar
• Southerleigh Haute South
• The Good Kind
• Bruno’s Dive Bar
Best Cocktail Bar and Cocktails
• The Modernist
• George’s Keep
• Amelia Social Lounge
• Maeve
• Lilly’s Greenville
• Casa Hernan
Best Country Bar
• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon
• The Lonesome Rose
• The SA Country Saloon
• Blue Bonnet Palace
• El Honky Tonk
Best Craft Beer Selection
• Burleson Yard Beer Garden
• Growler Exchange
• The Hoppy Monk
• The Cove
• Black Potion
• Big Hops Shaenfield
• The Hop Doctor
Best Dance Club
• The Bonham Exchange
• Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon
• Maeve
• 1902 Nightclub
• Cream Cocktail Lounge
• Desperados 2.0
Best Dive Bar
• Bang Bang Bar
• Finnegan’s Sports & Spirits
• The Mix
• The Lighthouse Neighborhood Lounge
• Pegasus
• 2015 Place
• Bruno’s Dive Bar
Best Drink Specials/ Cheap Drinks
• La Tuna Ice House
• Hanzo
• Double Standard
• Bar 1919
• Texas Dog Co.
Best Gay Bar
• Bonham Exchange
• Let’s Be Honest
• Sparky’s Pub • Pegasus
• Heat Nightclub
• Ay Que Chula
Best Happy Hour
• Slackers Bar SA
• Hanzo
• Francis Bogside
• The Cottage Irish Pub
• Liberty Bar
• The Hayden
Best Hookah Bar
• Shisha Cafe
• Naara Café & Hookah • Habibi Lounge
• Cloud 9 Hookah & Vape Lounge
• Hookah Harem
Best Hotel Bar
• Sternewirth Tavern & Club Room at Hotel Emma
• The Moon’s Daughters at Thompson Hotel
• Ocho at Hotel Havana
• Menger Bar at the Menger Hotel
• Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails at Hotel Contessa
Best Ice House
• The Friendly Spot
• Wurzbach Ice House
• La Tuna Icehouse
• The Dakota East Side Ice House
• Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
• Lucy Cooper’s Ice House
Best Karaoke Bar
• Dad’s Karaoke
• The Bonham Exchange
• Thirsty Horse Saloon
• Oak Hills Tavern
• Bar Ludivine
• Marty’s Cocktails
Best Local Brewery
• Freetail Brewing Co.
• Man Overboard Brewing Co.
• Dos Sirenos Brewing
• Weathered Souls Brewing Co.
• Kuenstler Brewing
• Thirsty Pups Brewery
Best Margaritas
• El Mirasol
• La Gloria
• Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar
• Maeve
• Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine
• Tiago’s Cabo Grille
Best Micheladas
• The Friendly Spot
• Chiflada’s Cocktail Bar
• Liberty Bar
• Costa Pacifica
• Acenar Mexican Restaurant
• Artisan Distillery and Craft Bar
Best Music Venue
• Boeing Center at Tech Port
• The Tobin Center
• Majestic and Empire Theatres
• Aztec Theatre
• Stable Hall
• Paper Tiger
Best New Bar
• Let’s Be Honest
• Maeve
• Amelia Social Lounge
• Holy Diver
• Hands Down
Best Sports Bar
• Slackers Bar SA
• The Bend Sports Bar
• The Roo Pub
• B&N Sports Bar
Best Sunday Funday
• Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
• The Bonham Exchange
• Picks Bar
• Maeve
• Hugman’s Oasis
• Casa Hernan
Best Wine Bar
• Copa Wine Bar & Tasting Room
• Little Death
• High Street Wine Co.
• Rerooted 210
• Anne’s Wine Bar
• The Board Couple
REY LOPEZ BIRTHDAY BASH
You’d never guess it from his baby face and boyish demeanor, but local LGBTQ+ nightlife innovator Rey Lopez is turning 49 years young this month. To celebrate the occasion, he’s flying in a slick sextet of superstars spanning all 16 seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race and even foreign franchises of the show. Aptly, Lopez’s motley crew represents all corners of the drag spectrum—from pageantry to high-octane glamor to avant-garde theatrics. Encompassing two electrifying showcases with a brief intermission for powder-room visits and cocktail refills, his Thursday night bash packs in performances by atomic blonde Kylie Sonique Love (Season 2, winner of All Stars Season 6); nipped-andtucked fashionista Detox (Season 5, All Stars Season 2); duck-walking diva Anetra (Season 15, pictured); amusingly named oddball Amanda Tori Meating (Season 16); self-described “transformista” Christian Peralta (winner of Drag Race Mexico Season 1); and Australian comedy queen Hannah Conda (Drag Race Down Under Season 2, UK vs. the World Season 2). As with any Rey Lopez Entertainment showcase, his simply titled #RLE49 features support from his roster of top-notch local drag entertainers—Nilaya Milan Ma hews, Kylie Gorgeous Dlux and Best of San Antonio winner Hunsen Abequeer among them—who’ll warm up the stage as part of a fast-paced opening megamix. Although Lopez was tight-lipped about any other birthday surprises, we’re secretly hoping to see his shit-talking, snaggletoothed emcee Tencha la Jefe jump out of a cake. $50, 10:30 p.m, and midnight, Bonham Exchange, (210) 224-9219, facebook.com/reylopezentertainment. Bryan Rindfuss
she revealed her plan for feeling good about her own body image: go on a week-long cruise. “Lo a drinkers and eaters on those cruises. It’ll drink and eat you into feeling great about yourself!” $39.50-$79.50, 8 p.m., Charline McCombs Empire Theatre, 226 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 2263333, majesticempire.com. — Sanford Nowlin
FRI | 07.26
FILM
FRIDAY
RETRO MOVIES FOR ADULTS: ALIEN
Alien stands alongside other classics like The Silence of the Lambs and Chinatown as eternally perfect works of Hollywood filmmaking. Just like your favorite album, you can return again and again and be dazzled. Nothing has aged in Alien. The effects still look great, the performances are uniformly brilliant — Harry Dean Stanton’s casual insouciance, Yaphet Ko o’s intensity, Ian Holm’s chilly callousness and Sigourney Weaver’s ferocious, indelible presence. This is still Ridley Sco ’s best film, still the best film in the esteemed Alien series and still the greatest horror sci-fi film. Like the xenomorph at its center, Alien is unkillable, and just like Holm’s android Ash, it is impossible not to “admire its purity, unclouded by conscience, remorse or delusions of morality.” Free, 2-4 p.m., Collins Garden Library, 200 N. Park Blvd., (210) 207-9120, mysapl.org. — Neil Fauerso
FRI | 07.26SAT | 08.03
THEATRE
THE NEVERMIND PEOPLE
Overtime Theater’s The Nevermind People explores what happens when a tragic accident becomes one man’s second chance at life — which he can only take advantage of it he can make sense of who he is and where he’s been. Penned by locally based writer and theater arts educator Michael D. Burger-Song, the absurdist mystery unfolds in an emergency room that has just been overrun by multiple victims of a bus crash. Amid the chaos, coma patient Laynerd awakens but soon finds himself taunted by a past he can’t quite pin down. Tensions rise as uncanny occurrences follow him wherever he goes, frightening the other patients. It isn’t long before a bone-deep dread se les in, and everyone begins to suspect that something sinister must have brought them all together. Dark and ambitious not unlike the TV phenomenon Lost, The Nevermind People touches on the effects of trauma and the often isolating and disorienting process of healing. Discounted admission is available for members of the San Antonio Theater Coalition, military and students with a valid ID. $12–$18, 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, July 12Aug. 3, special matinee on Sunday, July 28, Overtime Theater, 5409 Bandera Road #205, (210) 557-7562, theovertimetheater.org. — Caroline Wolff
KATHLEEN MADIGAN
Kathleen Madigan’s schtick-free, blue-collar take on comedy may not have landed her a sitcom or an unending string of streaming specials, but she’s certainly racked up praise from high-profile stand-ups such as Lewis Black and Ron White. The Missouri native’s down-to-earth delivery makes her feel like that one wisecracking drinking buddy who keeps everyone else at the bar in stitches. She frequently draws from her experience growing up in a large Irish Catholic family but has also been known to share irreverent takes on her travels to places as far flung as Paris and Afghanistan, not to mention her own bad habits, including an addiction to whole milk. During a recent TV appearance,
SUN | 07.28
VISUAL ART AND POETRY
SAN ANTONIO POET LAUREATE AND FRIENDS IN CONVERSATION WITH DE LA TORRE BROTHERS: UPWARD MOBILITY
In March 2024, brothers Einar and Jamex de la Torre unveiled their exhibition Upward Mobility at the McNay Art Museum. Now, four months later, San Antonio Poet Laureate Eduardo “Eddie” Vega and others will gather for a multimedia event, blending the de la Torres’ brothers’ sculptures and lenticular prints with wri en rhymes and revelations. Upward Mobility examines culture, lifestyle and the political climate on both sides of the United States-Mexico border, using a smorgasbord of visual influences, from Aztec mythology and Catholic iconography to 1990s pop culture. Despite its wit, humor and eye-popping color
Julián P. Ledezma
Courtesy Photo / Kathleen Madigan
© 2003 Twentieth Century Fox
Courtesy Image / Overtime Theater
pale e, the installation doesn’t shy away from earnest and weighty commentary on immigration and overconsumption. San Antonio Poet Laureate Eddie Vega tackles similar issues in his body of work, including the published collections Chicharra Chorus and Somos Nopales. Nicknamed “The Taco-Poet of Texas,” Vega’s work centers on food, Tejano culture, social justice and the unexpected intersections between them. Three more local poets — Georgie Lee, Mark Heinlein and Violeta Garza — will join Vega at this reading. Tickets are free for McNay members, children under 12 and participants of the Museums For All program. Admission for nonmember adults is $20. Ticket price includes museum admission and access to Upward Mobility. Free-$20, 2-3 p.m., McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave., (210) 824-5368, mcnayart. org. — CW WED |
THE SAN ANTONIO FILM FESTIVAL
The San Antonio Film Festival’s multi-venue 30th anniversary extravaganza kicks off July 30 at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Starting out as an underground movie night screening local films with a pony keg and pay-what-you-can ethos, SAFILM’s tireless director Adam Rocha has certainly earned his big boy birthday party pants over the last three decades. His DIY brainchild is now a series of film screenings, industry mixers and a sma ering of afterparties spread over six days. With over 200 screenings of international fulllength features, documentaries and shorts to choose from, you can tailor your individual experience via the up-to-date festival schedule online at www.safilm.com. Tickets are available online at tobincenter.org/safilmfest. $12.99 daily matinee pass-$149.99 VIP Festival Pass, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, 100 Auditorium Circle & The Radius Center, 106 Auditorium Circle #120, (210) 885-5888, safilm.com. — Anjali Gupta
SUN | 08.04
SAMURAI I: MUSASHI MIYAMOTO
The first installment in Hiroshi Inagaki’s epic and magisterial Samurai Trilogy, Samurai I: Musashi Miyamoto follows a young bandit and his spiritual evolution into a kind of enlightened samurai. Released the same year as Kurosawa’s classic Seven Samurai (1954), Samurai I is less visceral and gripping, but more impressionistic — with gorgeous color cinematography creating a moving woodblock print of a floating world. Toshiro Mifune (who of course is in Seven Samurai as well) delivers perhaps the greatest performance in his storied career, crafting a portrait that is both mythic and deeply felt. The McNay’s inaugural Summer Film Series celebrates the museum’s 70th anniversary by showcasing films released in 1954. Free for members and $10 for nonmembers, 3-5 p.m., McNay Art Museum, 6000 N. New Braunfels Ave., (210) 824-5368, info@mcnayart.org, mcnayart.org/mcnay70. — Neil Fauerso
Courtesy Image / Steven Okazaki
Bryan Rindfuss
Courtesy Image / San Antonio Film Festival
Ice Cube
Wednesday, July 24
School of Rock All Stars
The School of Rock is more than a hilarious movie starring Jack Black — it’s an actual music school with franchises across major U.S. cities and even cities overseas. For this special concert, young students audition and compete for a coveted slot, then hop on an actual tour bus and experience life as a musician. (Actually, most musicians don’t ride in buses unless you count VIA, but you get the idea.) SA is a stop on this tour, and an ideal one. We love our classic rock, and this is the way it’s meant to be heard — not by Baby Boomer blues lawyers but young folks first experiencing the joy of playing music. $15-$40, 6:30 p.m., Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson St., (210) 223-2830, samsburgerjoint. com. — Bill Baird
Thursday, July 25
Ringo Deathstarr, Elnuh, Sinking
Named after the Beatles’ drummer and the most powerful weapon in a galaxy far, far away, Austin’s Ringo Deathstarr has more than just a good name. The band has emerged as a powerful presence in the shoegaze revival. While often compared to My Bloody Valentine and Ride, the band has evolved with more of a dream pop sound since its 2015 hit “Stare At The Sun”. $17, 7 p.m., Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St., papertigersatx.com. — Danny Cervantes
Friday, July 26
Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band open the show a with a setlist spanning five decades of material. $65.10-$128.40, 7:30 p.m., Whitewater Amphitheater, 11860 FM 306, New Braunfels, (830) 964-3800, whitewaterrocks.com. — DC
Moon Tokki, Neon Lemon, Mypilotis
Thanks in part to an approach that defies San Antonio’s longtime fixations with heavy metal and roots music, Moon Tokki has emerged as one of the city’s most promising young bands. The group calls its music “awk-rock,” and it’s a mix of post-punk guitar and bubblegum keys with nods to Bowie and Roxy Music. Another promising SA band, catchy indie-rock purveyors Mypilotis, and Austin psych act Neon Lemon round out the bill. $5, 9:30 p.m., Lonesome Rose, 2114 N. St. Mary’s St., thelonesomerose.com. — BB
Sunday, July 28
Mugger, Killer Hearts
Mugger are one of the best modern hardcore bands out there, period. If anyone needs proof, they received the ultimate endorsement: being selected as opening act for seminal hardcore legends Negative Approach. The opening band, Houston’s Killer Hearts, bring an unapologetic ’80s rock sensibility to the proceedings. Something like Motörhead meeting “Too Fast For Love”-era Mötley Crüe — you know, back when the Crüe rocked. Bonus points for this being an all-ages show. Free for 21+, $10 for minors, 7 p.m., Paper Tiger, 2410 N. St. Mary’s St., papertigersatx.com. — BB
break. Alt-rocker Matt Maeson is a must-catch opener. $185-$525, 7 p.m., Frost Bank Center, One AT&T Center, (210) 444-5140, frostbankcenter.com. — DC
Friday, Aug. 2
Grupo Tan Tan, Squeezebox Bandits
Grupo Tan Tan carries on San Antonio’s conjunto tradition with the vigor and vitality of youth. The group describes itself as a “fara-fara band” — essentially a stripped down and more portable version of Norteño music played mostly acoustically — but its music is a melting pot that also includes country, blues and cumbia. The members’ main act, Piñata Protest, might have more buzz, but don’t sleep on Grupo Tan Tan. Fort Worth’s Squeezebox Bandits bring a stripped-down sound combining Tejano and country. $5, 9:30 p.m., Lonesome Rose, 2114 N. St. Mary’s St., thelonesomerose.com. — BB
Saturday, Aug. 3
Ice Cube, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, E-40, Xzibit
The twist and turns of O’Shea Jackson’s life have been well documented under his stage name, Ice Cube. From Straight Outta Compton, to his portrayal of Doughboy in “Boyz n the Hood” and his solo career, Cube has been at the forefront of the rise of rap as a mainstream force in music, film and the general cultural zeitgeist. Expect this Ice Cube-headlined tour, billed as Legends of Hip Hop, to include a career-spanning setlist that includes his seminal work with NWA along with solo material. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, E-40 and Xzibit round out the genre showcase. $53.50-$209, 7:30 p.m., Frost Bank Center, One AT&T Center, (210) 444-5140, frostbankcenter.com. — DC
Sunday, Aug. 4
Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore
Here’s a rare and wonderful opportunity to see two musical legends on the same stage. Jimmie Dale Gilmore, whose high, nasal voice conjures the Panhandle plains, has been wowing audiences for 50 years, as a member of the Flatlanders and as a solo artist. Meanwhile, Dave Alvin, who formed pivotal roots-rock band The Blasters, also played for LA punk legends X and the Flesh Eaters. Alvin and Gilmore come to town to promote their 2018 release Downey to Lubbock, an album of rippers and barnstormers. They’re late promoting the record, due to Alvin’s valiant — and successful — fight against cancer, but better late than never. $25-$100, 7 p.m., Sam’s Burger Joint, 330 E. Grayson St., (210) 223-2830, samsburgerjoint.com. — BB
Tuesday, Aug. 6
Vacations, Soft Blue Shimmer, Alex Lahey
Australia’s Vacations are bringing their indie-surf rock bliss back to San Antonio for a second time in less than a year — and that’s a good thing, folks. The group’s self-described “woozy guitar pop” feels like catching a rippin’ wave with nary a shark in sight. LA’s Soft Blue Shimmer lives up to its name with waves of, ahem, shimmering guitar and thoughtful melodic indie-rock. Fellow Aussie singer-songwriter Alex Lahey brings catchy, propulsive new wave-ish rock to the table. $41$86, 8 p.m., Aztec Theatre, 104 S. St Mary’s St, (210) 812-4355, theaztectheatre.com. — BB Find more music coverage every day at sacurrent.com
Jason Isbell appears to be on top of his game as he hits the shores of the Guadalupe. His years with the Drive By Truckers and subsequent sobriety have brought a clarity to his Northern Alabama sound, a mix of soulful rock and country. His most recent album with The 400 Unit, 2023’s Grammy-winning Weathervanes, peaked at No. 1 on the indie charts. Pioneering country-rock
Tuesday July 30Wednesday, July 31
Zach Bryan, Matt Maeson, Levi Turner
Country hitmaker Zach Bryan is visiting SA on his self-proclaimed last tour ever. The dates also support his just-released album The Great American Bar Scene, which features collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and John Mayer. Bryan’s star has been on the ascent since his 2022 breakout American Heart-
act
Jaime Monzon
“What Comes Fourth?”--you got three in a row... by Matt Jones
© 2024 Matt Jones
Across 1. Ike’s spouse
6. Caramel candy brand
10. “30 for 30” channel
14. Love, in Rome
15. Peters of “American Horror Story”
16. High point
17. Angel’s citation for forgetting an instrument?
19. Sit a while
20. Muse of astronomy
21. Wilson who played Dwight Schrute
23. Like some almonds
24. Abbreviation a er a comma
26. Cessation
27. Give it ___
30. Lean meat source
31. Question of a continental country consortium’s willingness to rock the mic?
34. 2000s boy band named a er a Florida city
35. Physically exible
36. L.A. tree
39. “Clean” surface?
42. Advance, as cash
43. Farmyard refrain
45. Shabby
47. e Insult Comic Dog’s French counterpart?
50. West Germany’s o cial name until 1990, for short
53. Ready for action
54. “Unbelievable” band of 1991
55. “Chandelier” singer
56. Su x a er mountain
57. Parodize
59. Split in two
61. “Somebody Feed ___” (Netix travel documentary)
63. What happens when you treat your garden hose badly?
66. Verdi opera heroine
67. Dull pain
68. Quetzalcoatl worshipper
69. “Ocean Man” group
70. Shout it out
71. “All at Jazz” director Bob Down
1. Organic fertilizer component
2. Conscienceless
3. Centrist style?
4. Persian Gulf country
5. Most chilling
6. Arbiter
7. Ab ___ (from square one)
8. Hardy counterpart
9. No longer at sea
10. Bring in
11. “What if” situation
12. Keir Starmer and others, for short
13. Volleyball need
18. Feeling of sympathy
22. Notion
25. Part of a Traitor’s out t, on “ e Traitors”
28. Big party
29. Uninhibited
32. Take away the heat?
33. Reprehensible
34. Leave out
36. Shepherd’s pie veggies
37. Million or billion ending
38. Where rational thought
EMPLOYMENT
Brident Dental seeks F/T Orthodontists for San Antonio location. Must have DDS or DMD degree or foreign equivalent, valid TX dental license & Advanced Study Certi cate in Orthodontics. Email resume to: resumes@westerndental.com
Researcher II – Rackspace US, Inc – San Antonio, TX. Collects & analyzes data related to market trends, product needs, feature viability & product demand. Req’d: Bach deg that includes extensive coursework in UX research & design or rel d + 2yrs of exp in design research, user interface design, info architecture, usability testing, human factors or rel d. Telecommuting permitted. Send resume to: careers@rackspace.com: Ref. RAXRESEARCHII.
Consultant (Civil Engineer), Parra & Co., LLC, San Antonio, TX. Assist in preparing des. docs, including grading, utility, stormwater management, & erosion control plans for clients located throughout Texas. B.S. in civ. eng., structural eng., or construction eng. & 3 yrs of civ. eng. exp, including 2 yrs. exp. in proj. mgmt.; analyzing surveys to determine how to design civ. eng. proj.; designing civ. eng. documents; production of civ. eng. documents in 2D & 3D models; & providing tech. direction to design civ. eng. req. per client req. Willing to travel throughout Texas. Apply at Emparra@ParraCompany.com
H-E-B seeks Sr Database Admin. in San Antonio, TX to enhance database performance. E-Mail resumes to: Marisa Alcorta, at Recruiting10@heb.com
occurs in the brain
40. Pub xtures
41. Business school subject
44. Nabisco mainstay
46. Bit brewed in a bag
48. “No need to worry about me”
49. Workplac
50. Huge meals
51. Some Broadway jukebox musicals
52. Country on the Aegean
58. Prepare (for)
60. Auto exec Ferrari
61. “___ Patrol”
62. Move it along quickly
64. Senators’ gp.
65. “Kenan & ___”
Answers on page 93
Lead Engineer w/ Petco Animal Supplies Stores, Inc. 100% remote-San Antonio, TX. In compliance w/ state-speci c laws, pay range is $132,579-163,400/yr & may vary based on location & exp. Email resume w/ Job #SV1010 to valerie.giroux@petco.com
SA Scienti c, Ltd. is seeking a Research Associate, Biotechnology in the R & D Depart. for its San Antonio, Texas o ce. is position will be responsible for the design, development and fabrication of test strips for their intended use, as well as for the development of protocols to optimize and troubleshoot procedures that culminate meeting the quality and standards of SA Scienti c. is position will have a critical role in working and communicating with the teams of the R&D and production sector and will stay up to date with new developments in the eld. Speci cally, the Research Associate will perform the following duties: Design and perform experiments related to the development of immunochromatographic rapid diagnostic tests for clinical use based on colloidal gold nanoparticle/ uorescent latex bead technology; Optimize chemistries in the synthesis/biofunctionalization of nanoparticles and in their subsequent incorporation into the lateral ow assays; evaluate the results of the tests and adopting appropriate measures to improve their performance; and document results in the form of laboratory notebook entries and presentations. Req. Bach. in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology or closely rel. eld. 6 months exp. as a researcher or teaching assistant in an academic or industrial setting which includes 6 months of exp. with the following: Designing laboratory experiments; Calibrating laboratory equipment; and tracking laboratory inventory.
To apply send cover letter and resume to: sas@sascienti c.com.
