RIO MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2020

NOVEMBER 2020 COMPLIMENTARY

Food, Glorious Food!

Painted Churches Three Days of Thankful Itineraries Golfing in SA–Duffers to Pros VISIT US: THESANANTONIORIVERWALK.COM • COUPONS & MAPS INSIDE

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Enjoy patio dining overlooking the san antonio river walk.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Order Online For Curbside Pickup or Delivery Happy Hour 3pm-6pm and Reverse Happy Hour 9pm-11pm 421 E. Commerce St. | (210) 226-8462 Check our website for restaurant hours riorioriverwalk.com

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Shop Small.

Shop Local.

Located in the heart of downtown, La Villita offers over 20 unique boutiques, art galleries and savory dining experiences. Shop local & have a holiday shopping experience as charming as the gifts you’ll find.

Hours of Operation

Thurs – Sat 10am – 6pm | Sun 11am – 4pm Restaurant hours vary

La Villita | 418 Villita Street | lavillitasanantonio.com

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JUST LIKE

MAMA MAKES IT! LOCATED ON THE RIVER WALK

406 Navarro Street • 210.224.4867 River Walk Patio • Free WiFi • Perfect for Groups • Retail Market

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bubbagump.com

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IN THIS ISSUE FAMILY FUN MAKE A SUNDAY DRIVE A TRIP TO REMEMEBR

By Janis Turk

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32

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BE ENTERTAINED GIFT-WRAPPING SAN ANTONIO

By Kimberly Suta

RECREATION FORE! THE GOLFER’S GUIDE TO SAN ANTONIO

By Drew Henry

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IN EVERY ISSUE FEATURES 12 16 20 24

Sip & Savor Family Fun Be Entertained Great Finds

GUIDES 39 Food & Drink 40 Shopping

COUPONS 46

SPOTLIGHT

Coupons

35 Biga on the Banks

GREAT FINDS ADDING SAN ANTONIO FLAVOR TO YOUR TABLE

By Dawn Robinette

MAPS 42 River Walk 43 Museum Reach

& King William 44 Downtown

28 Culture & Community 32 Recreation 36 24/48/72 Hours

ON THE COVER

Local professional photographer, Daniel Dawson, captured the beginning of Fall color on the River Walk in this 2020 photo that includes two River Walk icons, the Casa Rio Restaurant umbrellas, and the Hilton Palacio del Rio hotel. A morning stroll or jog is a great way to take in the beauty. To see more of Dawson’s work, visit Facebook or Instagram @brtsophotos.

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RIO Magazine is the official publication of the San Antonio River Walk Association. All expressions of opinions and statements of supposed facts are published on the authority of the writer and cannot be regarded as expressing the views of the San Antonio River Walk Association or its Publisher. Advertisements do not imply sponsorship or endorsement by the San Antonio River Walk Association or its Publisher.

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2020-2021 San Antonio River Walk Association

The San Antonio River Walk Association’s mission is to promote, protect and preserve the River Walk. This is done through special events, public education, social media, and RIO Magazine. The association also serves as an advocate for member businesses.

For more information, call 210-227-4262.

PRESIDENT Maria Martinez The Westin Riverwalk PRESIDENT-ELECT John Carbajal Keller Williams PAST-PRESIDENT Laurence Seiterle Zurich Properties TREASURER Ashley Ciomperlik CHAIR, OPERATORS COMMITTEE Andreas Esparza Boudro’s EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Maggie Thompson San Antonio River Walk Association EX-OFFICIOS Veronica Carrillo Center City Development and Operations Department Angela Camarillo San Antonio River Authority Eddie Romero Centro San Antonio Will Grinnan San Antonio Restaurant Association Sharon Aguillen San Antonio Tourism Council BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mike Bolick Hotel Emma

Ric Morales Silver Eagle Beverages

Bob Buchanan The Original Mexican Restaurant

Tammy Peacock-Werline Topgolf

Ashley Ciomperlik Wyndham Garden Riverwalk Terry Corless Mad Dogs Group Mike DeLuna Paesanos Restaurant Group

David Ramirez San Japan Rudy Saenz Staybridge Suites Carrie Anne Silvers Hard Rock Cafe

Mae Escobar aMAEzing Marketing Group

Mark Vilagi Marriott San Antonio Airport

Amanda Garcia Visit San Antonio

Ryan Wood On the Bend

Janis Maxymof Marketing Specialist

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Some things are not to be missed. The River Walk. The Alamo.

And the Shrimp Paesano at Paesanos. For more than 50 years, locals and visitors alike have enjoyed the contemporary setting, Italian/Mediterranean cuisine and Old World service of this culinary landmark.

Join us at our River Walk location for an experience you won’t soon forget it.

C h e C k O u r W e b s i t e F O r r e s ta u r a n t h O u r s Order Online FOr Curbside PiCkuP Or delivery paesanosriverwalk.com 111 West Crockett Street

(210) 227-2782

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EDITOR’S LETTER

The Official Magazine of the River Walk

PUBLISHER

Louis Doucette louis@travelingblender.com EDITOR

Paula Schechter paula@riverwalksa.org BUSINESS MANAGER

Vicki Schroder vicki@travelingblender.com ADVERTISING SALES

San Antonio: Gerry Lair gerry@travelingblender.com

CONSIDER YOURSELF WARNED! Everyone knows you don’t grocery shop when you’re hungry, right? Well, the same could be said for the November issue of RIO Magazine—don’t even think about leafing through this issue unless you have just eaten or intend to eat right away.

So, much good food is packed into this issue; where to go out for breakfast, where to get a Thanksgiving meal, and where to find great food for gift giving. I fell in love with SanAntonioInABox. com, mentioned in this month’s Be Entertained story. The Mexican chocolate, Schilo’s Root Beer, and jalapeno pecan brittle are just a few of the locally made items I will include in the gift boxes I send. (Yes, they offer non-food items, but does that even bear mentioning.)

Madeleine Justice madeleine@travelingblender.com Austin: Sandy Weatherford sandy@travelingblender.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

2 Rare Birds Creative info@2rarebirds.com

Other stories include road trips to visit the Painted Churches of Texas, carriage rides, golf, and three days of thankful itineraries. November is the season of food…and anything else you want to go along with eating!

Paula Schechter Editor, Rio Magazine

paula@riverwalksa.org TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.

Rio Magazine is published by Traveling Blender, LLC. (Publisher) on behalf of the San Antonio River Walk Association. Reproduction in any manner in whole or in part is prohibited without the express written consent of the San Antonio River Walk Association. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the San Antonio River Walk Association or its staff. Rio Magazine, the Publisher and the San Antonio River Walk Association reserve the right to edit all material for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Rio Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial nor does the Publisher or the San Antonio River Walk Association assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photos are welcome and may be submitted to our office to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher and San Antonio River Walk Association. All submissions become the property of the San Antonio River Walk Association. All Real Estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such a preference limitation or discrimination.”

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Espresso Martini 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka 1 oz coffee liqueur 1 oz espresso ½ oz simple syrup ½ oz creamer, optional 3 espresso beans, garnish

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Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.

Shake and strain into a glass.

Garnish with espresso beans.

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SIP & SAVOR

Holiday Bites to be ThankfuL for Like the rest of America,

Traditions in South Texas

turkey is the star of the

are mostly familiar, but

dinner table during the

with a few fun twists

holidays, but we like

for an extra helping of

‘em fried in San Antonio.

southern goodness!

The County Line

November kicks off the holiday season, and for the River City, that means local favorites such as tamales, Mexican hot chocolate, family-style barbecue, fajitas, and more!

by K i m

b e r l y A . Su ta

THE COUNTY LINE The County Line, known for “over 40 years of legendary barbecue,” is always geared towards family-style meals. Heaping plates of smoked meats, potato salad, beans, coleslaw, mac-n-cheese, and garlic mashed red skin potatoes, making it an ideal destination during the holidays.

The County Line’s delectable, moist smoked peppered turkey breast and scrumptious seasonal sides, such as green beans and stuffing, is everything you crave without all the work.

The River Walk location, next to Hard Rock Café, is always a good option for downtown dwellers and out-of-town visitors, but they also have a northside location along I10. For Thanksgiving, consider taking advantage of their holiday package, which must be pre-ordered. It includes sliced peppered turkey breast, brown gravy, green beans, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, seasonal fruit cobbler, and their delicious homemade bread, which is a must-order if you dine-in. If you find yourself bereft of finger-licking-good barbecue from wherever you hail, you will be happy to learn they offer delivery throughout the country.

Now, that’s a holiday miracle!

RIO RIO Also, located along the River Walk (between the Hilton and the Hyatt), with patio seating and river views, is Rio Rio Cantina, a decades-old TexMex favorite and one of a handful of remaining independently-owned restaurants on the River Walk.

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During the holiday season, Rio Rio aims to be even more family-friendly with one of the latest additions to their menu —the whopping Botana Grande! This sampler platter easily serves four and comes with sizzling beef and chicken fajitas, grilled onions, bell peppers, chorizo and Monterey Jack cheese-stuffed poblano peppers, shrimp mojo de ajo sautéed in a garlic lime butter, and a slew of sides. It’s truly one of the most affordable finds along the River Walk.

Because it’s the holidays, you have to celebrate with a few cocktails; at Rio Rio, that means some vibrant prickly pear margaritas, tangy chamoy margaritas, or a Mexican mule, made with tequila instead of vodka. You can even order a few “to-go” drinks, served in pouches, that you can take with you for some sip and fun!

If you hop on the River Walk early in the day, you can even stop by for a plate of classic chilaquiles, made with crispy corn tortillas, scrambled eggs, queso blanco, pico de gallo, and a tomatillo salsa verde. It’s a traditional all-year long here for a reason.

In San Antonio, it would be an absolute crime to celebrate without the ever-popular tamale. What was once a holiday tradition has transformed into a food people now expect to find throughout the year. However, during November and December, it’s a tamale extravaganza. Families, restaurants, and dedicated food companies make tamales by the dozens, hundreds, and thousands.

MI TIERRA Mi Tierra, one of San Antonio’s most renowned Mexican restaurants, located downtown in Market Square, sets the bar high when it comes to

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Mi Tierra

The County Line

In San Antonio, it would be an absolute crime to celebrate without the ever-popular

tamAle. Rio Rio Cantina

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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Tamahli

SIP & SAVOR

tamales. They make and sell more than 500 dozen tamales during the holidays. That’s 6,000 tamales that are handmade and happily devoured.

You can pre-order by the dozen, and flavors include chicken, pork, and bean and cheese. Tamales being such an important component of the holidays, the Cortez family (owners) also hosts an annual communitywide tamale event every December called La Gran Tamalada.

Mi Tierra is always a hot spot for family gatherings, thanks to their festive decorations, mariachis, and fantastic Mexican food and bakery. But during the holidays, they take it up a notch with even more decorations, lights, and Christmas trees, making it a Tex-Mex wonderland!

Tamahli

click on this: DENNY’S Locations.dennys.com/tx/san-antonio MI TIERRA CAFÉ Y PANADERIA Mitierracafe.com RIO RIO CANTINA Riorioriverwalk.com TAMAHLI Tamahli.com THE COUNTY LINE Countyline.com

TAMAHILI San Antonio-based business, Tamahli, is dedicated entirely to creating some of the most incredible tamales you will ever eat. They have become so popular that you can also find them in Whole Foods stores all across the Southwest region of the United States.

Locally, you can order them fresh and hot via their website for pick-up at their manufacturing facility.

Although they offer a wide array of delicious tamales, including their new jalapeno and cream cheese, they make a few holiday delights you won’t want to miss.

The Sleepy Hollow tamale is filled with pumpkin and raisins, which makes this semi-sweet tamale both traditional and nostalgic. It goes exceptionally well with Tamahli’s seasonal beverage called champurrado, a masa drink similar to hot chocolate.

Another traditional holiday beverage on offer is their drinkable oatmeal called “coconut oatmeal.” They admit it sounds a little unusual, but it’s a comforting drink that pairs nicely with tamales during what we, tongue-in-cheek, refer to as winter.

WRITER’S BIO Kimberly A. Suta of Sutapants Productions is a local and national food writer, award-winning filmmaker, and publicist for the culinary industry. She’s also the co-creator of Homegrown Chef (homegrowncheftv.com), a culinary series and catering and events company featuring our city’s best chefs and delicious eats.

HOT TIP >> DENNY’S Denny’s downtown restaurant, located along E. Commerce Street, is open 24-hours a day and just minutes from the River Walk. With their amazing pancakes and seasonal flavors, such as the new Pumpkin Pecan Pancake Meal, Denny’s is an affordable, family-pleasing, tried-and-true choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner during the holidays.

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11/30/20

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FAMILY FUN

Make a Sunday Drive a Road Trip to Remember

By Janis Turk

Map out a special Sunday drive headed in a different direction, learn a little history, create unusual art, and collect fond memories along the way. Who knows? Your pumpkin might turn into a carriage, and you just might come across fall colors in the most unexpected places.

Bluebonnet Carriage Company

With a four-day Thanksgiving weekend and a harvest of glorious fallweather days ahead, folks have plenty of time for family gatherings, pumpkin pie, and football this month. But after the dishes are done, use your ol’ pumpkin head to plan a different kind of family outing—a road trip to remember.

YOUR CARRIAGE AWAITS Sometimes a Sunday drive is about the journey, not the destination.

Surprise the family with a horse-drawn carriage ride. With great fall weather, it’s nice to tour downtown streets or the King William Historic 16 RIO Magazine

District to the slow clippety-clop of a beautiful draft horse. Besides, it’s fairly affordable, as kids under ten usually ride for free (one with each paying adult). Start your adventure by the Hard Rock Café or near Alamo Plaza or make a reservation to be picked up in style from a hotel or local landmark. Many carriages glimmer with twinkling lights at night, others are adorned with silk flowers, and some even resemble Cinderella’s pumpkin-shaped coach. Animal lovers like knowing that the San Antonio Carriage ordinance holds the reins, ensuring that the handsome horses are treated humanely, groomed well daily, and monitored closely for health and welfare. Carriages are also carefully cleaned and sanitized. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church, Dubina

St. Mary’s Church, High Hill

THE 31 PAINTED CHURCHES OF TEXAS • • •

Ammannsville: St. John the Baptist Bandera: St. Stanislaus Beaumont: St. Anthony

Cathedral Basilica Dubina: Sts. Cyril and Methodius Ellinger: St. Mary’s Fredericksburg: St. Mary’s Galveston: St. Joseph’s Goliad: Our Lady of Loreto Chapel High Hill: Nativity of the Blessed

Virgin Mary (St. Mary’s) Houston: Annunciation Koerth: St. John the Baptist La Coste: Our Lady of Grace Lindsay: St. Peter’s Mason: St. Joseph Moravia: Ascension of Our Lord Olfen: St. Boniface Palestine: Sacred Heart Panna Maria: Immaculate Conception Plantersville: St. Mary’s Praha: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Rowena: St. Joseph San Antonio: Immaculate Heart

of Mary San Antonio: St. Mary’s Serbin: St. Paul’s Lutheran Shiner: Sts. Cyril and Methodius St. John: St. John the Baptist St. Hedwig: Annunciation of the

Blessed Virgin Mary St. Mary: St. Mary’s Umbarger: St. Mary’s Wallis: Church of the Guardian Angel Wesley: Wesley Brethren

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Courtesy Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce

SAN ANTONIO’S PAINTED PERFECTION If it’s a serene destination you seek, why not check out some of Texas’ gorgeous painted churches? San Antonio has two stunning ones to see, though be sure to call in advance before visiting to see the incredible interiors. In the early 1900s, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church was built in the Byzantine Romanesque style, with intricately hand-painted stencil motifs by a Claretain priest, Fr. Alberto Domingo. Its vibrantly colored walls and vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and a statue of the Immaculate Heart of Mary inspire awe. Another must-see is St. Mary’s Catholic Church, downtown, with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and a white altar. Its original interior was plain white, until 1956 when a company from Cincinnati, Ohio, was hired to craft artistically painted adornment.

St. John the Baptist, Ammannsville

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FAMILY FUN

THEREIN LIES THE RUB To create a headstone rubbing, you’ll need rice or parchment paper, charcoal pencils or crayons, masking tape, and (quite possibly) permission from the cemetery. To begin, be sure the headstone is dry and gently brush off dust. Tape a large piece of paper across the raised portion of the headstone you wish to copy. Then, lightly rub your crayon or pencil over the surface of the paper until the tombstone lettering is legible. It’s so easy and an interesting way to learn about those who were laid to rest in the Lone Star State.

click on this: BLUEBONNET CARRIAGE Bluebonnetcarriage.com LOLLYPOP CARRIAGE Lollypopcarriage.com YELLOW ROSE CARRIAGE Yellowrosecarriage.com PAINTED CHURCHES StMaryschurchsa.org Ihmsatx.org Schulenburgchamber.org/ painted-churches-tour HEADSTONE RUBBINGS Wikihow.com (search the site for gravestone rubbing instructions)

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GET OUT OF TOWN For a longer outing, take a day-trip to see some truly spectacular painted churches near the town of Schulenburg, about an hour-and-a-half east on Interstate 10. From outside, these small buildings with sweet steeples may look plain and simple, belying the surprising splendor inside. Like tiny jewel boxes, the walls and ceilings within astound, awash with hand-painted and stenciled embellishment.

Built by Czech and German immigrants in the late 1800s/early 1900s, some of the churches were “modernized” in the 1950s by white-washing over the antique hand-painted frescos and art, so for decades their painted treasures lay hidden. Parishioners marveled at the angels and stars that lay underneath and rich colors that had been covered, so they had the tromp-l’œil touches, angelic art, and heavenly hues painstakingly restored.

In the small town of Dubina, in Fayette County, stands Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church featuring a cerulean ceiling, awash with more than 3,000 gold stars and multi-colored lilies adorning its walls.

In the High Hill’s community lies St. Mary’s Church Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, drawing thousands of visitors annually to see the ornate details and stained-glass windows. It is called the “Queen of the Painted Churches.” An intricately adorned altar, glistening chandelier, grand pipe organ, apse ceiling, imported Italian Stations of the Cross, and a painted reproduction of Michelangelo’s “Pieta,” along with large statues are stunning.

St. Mary’s Church of the Assumption in Praha features rafters painted to look like the inside of Noah’s Ark. St. John the Baptist Church in Ammannsville looks as though sunrise kissed its rose-colored walls and the intricate symbols painted by famed San Antonio artist Fred Donecker. In Moravia, visit Ascension

of Our Lord Catholic Church. Rebuilt after a 1909 hurricane, the church was restored and also features hand-painted adornment by Donecker.

For an organized tour of some of these churches, contact in advance the Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce. Or tour on your own, Mondays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though the church at Praha ends visits at 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Remember, it’s important to call ahead to make sure the churches will be open. Most are active parishes holding Mass on weekends.

GET THE MOVIE OR READ THE BOOK Check out the DVD of “The Painted Churches of Texas, Echoes of the Homeland,” or browse your local library for the book “The Painted Churches of Texas”

by Brad Cooper. Texas boasts 31 painted churches, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so take time to see their heavenly colors.

UNUSUAL ART While checking out churches, you’re bound to pass some old Texas cemeteries. Bring along parchment paper and charcoal pencils so the kids can stop to make headstone rubbings. Or visit a cemetery on All Saints Day/Day of the Dead (November 1) to visit ancestral tombs. Headstone-inspired art may sound morbid, but it’s actually a unique way to share history.

WRITER’S BIO Janis Turk is an award-winning travel writer and photographer living in Seguin and author of guidebooks such as San Antonio and Austin Day

by Day and Frommer’s TEXAS. Enjoy her travel photography and watch some of Turk’s travel television segments at TurkTravels.com.

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BE ENTERAINED

Gift~Wrapping San Antonio

By Susan Yerkes

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When you think about holiday gifts this year, wouldn’t it be fun to wrap up everything you adore about San Antonio in a pretty package for someone you love?

The good news is, you can! Dozens of gorgeous books capture memorable places, events, colorful history, and culture of this unique city, with magnificent photos that bring San Antonio into homes, near and far. Give the gift of San Antonio that lasts for years.

SÍ, SAN ANTONIO AT CHRISTMAS Nothing sparkles like the River Walk aglow with holiday lights. This brand new coffee table book by author Patricia Hart McMillan and photographer Natalia KingSun, features 150-plus glorious color photos of the city in her holiday best, from the magical lights in the towering Bald Cypress trees and the annual Ford Holiday River Parade to San Fernando Cathedral’s rococo splendor, Fiesta Texas, the San Antonio Zoo, the Pearl, and much more.

The lush photography capture some of San Antonio-based author McMillan’s favorite places, which she loves to share with families and friends when they visit her. At the top of her list is mariachi mass at San Fernando, and what she calls the “flamboyant exuberance” of the classic Mexican restaurant Mi Tierra. She always includes the Alamo and the other UNESCO World Heritage missions– and of course, the River Walk.

Si, San Antonio at Christmas

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“I love just strolling or sitting outside along the river having a drink and something to eat, with the wonderful lights and the boats going by, waving to people. Or, reserving a private boat to sing Christmas Carols. It is magical to see so many happy people while browsing shops and picking up souvenirs. It’s a completely joyful experience. The River Walk gives us the best gift to give to our visitors,” McMillan said. The book makes that gift portable. It is also a gift to the non-profit San Antonio River Walk

organization itself – a percentage of the price of all books ordered directly from Shiffer Publishing goes to help support the association’s work to preserve and enhance the River Walk experience.

TRINITY UNIVERSITY PRESS This San Antonio based press shop is located at the venerable Trinity University and has a wide selection of beautiful books about the city. Their web site is a virtual smorgasbord for the book-loving gourmet. It’s hard to pick just a few suggestions for gift-giving, but here goes: American Venice The Epic Story of San Antonio’s River.

Author Lewis F. Fisher may be the most prolific and knowledgeable of all San Antonio authors. Anyone who loves the River Walk will delight in American Venice. From the cover, featuring the huge glowing F.I.S.H. art piece located on the River Walk’s Museum Reach to history, stories, and photographs, the book dives deep and fascinating into the stories behind this world-famous 15 mile-long stretch of urban river.

Greetings from San Antonio Historic Postcards of the Alamo City.

Lewis Fisher’s latest book paints a unique picture of the city through more than 600 color, and black and white postcards, many of them are quite rare. The author amassed his collection over decades to help illustrate his books about the city.“There was a big burst in picture postcards in the early 20th century, when San Antonio was the largest city in the largest state. They showed the world the wonderful resources we had here,” Fisher said.

San Antonio’s Spanish Missions A Portrait. Fisher also wrote the introductory text for each section of RIO Magazine

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BE ENTERAINED

f

e

d

d

f

e

f e San Antonio in a Box Want to send a sampler of thoughtful treats and gifts from San Antonio? Local entrepreneur Allison Craig’s San Antonio in a Box packages and ships a delightful hand-picked selection of locally produced products for gift-giving to those near and far.

The quality packaging and presentation make it a gift you will be proud to send.

The company’s website offers a variety of pre-selected themed boxes, including the seasonal Holiday Gift Box. Or you can choose 5-10 items from a carefully curated menu of different products.

You might select Chocolates Casa, Jan’s jalapeno pecan brittle, Barbecue Station sauces or rubs or Tio Pelon’s salsas; handcrafted candles or bath and beauty products; a Bolner’s Frito Pie Kit to Alamo cocktail glasses and kits, colorful handembroidered, reversible face masks, and the amazing root beer from Schilo’s on the River Walk.

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f click on this: SI, SAN ANTONIO AT CHRISTMAS Coffeetablebooksandmore.com/ san-antonio-book

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The Trinity University Press web site features many other beautiful books about San Antonio, but two that illuminate one of San Antonio’s cherished libations would make brilliant gifts for fans of—wait for it—tequila!

How the Gringos Stole Tequila: The Modern Age of Mexico’s Most Traditional Spirit, is a colorful tour through the history of North America’s only truly native spirit. Author Chantal Martineau explores the culture, politics, and production of tequila and its U.S. evolution “from frat house firewater to luxury good.”

Martineau also contributed to the big beautiful art book Spirit of Tequila, featuring the work of photographer Joel Salcido, who has documented the agave, and the spirits it produces, in gorgeous detail. Promise the recipient a margarita on the River Walk as part B to the gift!

THE TWIG BOOK SHOP While you’re out, be sure to stop in at the Pearl complex and wander through the cool landscaping, bistros, bars, and boutiques to The Twig Book Shop, a marvelous, locally owned independent bookstore where you can browse shelves filled with beautiful books to your heart’s delight.

There’s no better gift than San Antonio, and no better way to carry the best of the city home than with a beautiful book.

SAN ANTONIO IN A BOX Sanantonioinabox.com

e

THE TWIG BOOK SHOP Thetwig.com TRINITY UNIVERSITY PRESS Tupress.org

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this beautiful book. More than 100 stunning color photos by architectural photographer Mike Osborne showcase the city’s five 18th century Spanish missions in magnificent detail, from interior views of the Alamo to a mariachi mass at San José to a composite of rifle portholes in Espada’s bastion. With a foreword by Rev. David Garcia, director of The Old Spanish Missions, Inc., the book is a heavenly gift for anyone with a taste for architecture, cultural history, or just plain beauty.

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WRITER’S BIO Susan Yerkes is an award-winning journalist and travel writer. She grew up in her parents’ bookstore in San Antonio and loved and collected books all her life. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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One coupon, per table, per visit. Not valid on national holidays, with the 2468 Value Menu™, Super Slam™, AARP or any other coupons or promotional offers.

This offer can be redeemed only once by the original recipient. Coupon has no cash value. No change returned. Taxes and gratuity not included. Alcoholic beverages not included. Valid at participating restaurants for a limited time only. Selection and prices may vary. Photocopied and Internet printed or purchased coupons are not valid. No substitutions. Offer valid for dine in only. Not valid for online orders. Restrictions apply. © 2020 DFO, LLC. Offer ends 12/30/20

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GREAT FINDS The Board Couple

Sol y Luna

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Bill Miller BBQ

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Adding San Antonio Flavor to Your Holiday Table

By Dawn Robinette

Ask anyone what they love about San Antonio, and the city’s fabulous food is sure to be on their list.

You can spend weeks dining your way from the River Walk across the city, enjoying meal after meal of flavors that are memory-makers. So give your holiday cornucopia some San Antonio flair this season with flavors sure to make any celebration truly pop. out Margarita Lime cake for your dessert table or as a hostess gift?

River Whey Creamery

For one-stop holiday flavor shopping, the Pearl Farmers Market offers specialty chocolates, hand-crafted caramels, honey, salsas, bread, fresh fruits, and veggies. All Pearl Market vendors hail within a 150-mile radius of San Antonio, giving everything local roots. Sol y Luna Baking Company offers the freshest breads made from the highest quality ingredients yearround, but its seasonal pumpkin bread and carefully-crafted Christmas stollen are special treats. Pair your fresh loaf with the seasonal “Naughty and Nice” jam from Alamo Gristmill & Spice Kitchen, or slather it in olive oil, an array of balsamic vinegars, or tapenade from Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard. If you’re searching for holiday breakfast options, try Mother Culture Yogurt. They serve up delightful holiday flavored yogurts, including Eggnog (a drinkable yogurt!), thesanantonioriverwalk.com

as well as Peppermint Patty Greek yogurt, and Pumpkin Pie Greek yogurt. And of course, Pearl favorite Bakery Lorraine has a range of holiday treats. From their seasonal apple babka to fallflavored macarons, it’s hard to resist buying one of everything for your holiday dessert offerings.

If cheese is your love language, Pearl Market’s favorite River Whey Creamery is a true holiday standout. Whether you stop by the market, the creamery’s regular Friday open house, or find them at Whole Foods, its cheeses take everything up a notch. Their latest, Whey Blue, a double-cream earthy blue cheese with aromas of toasted biscuit, is a must. For the holidays, the award-winning St. Clements, with organic orange leaves and Holdman Honey, is great for gifts or to keep for yourself. With organic spruce tips, cranberries and nutmeg, Cranberry Frost is like having a tasty Christmas tree in a spoon – and is a perfect pairing with turkey.

Holiday boxes featuring cheeses, charcuterie from Parker Creek Ranch, and Holdman Honey are available for shipping across the continental U.S. as well, letting you spread cheese love to family and friends.

Deep River Specialty Foods

Another Pearl market mainstay, Deep River Specialty Foods, offers award-winning cooking sauces with unique flavor profiles like Watermelon Glaze, Picante Blanco Sauce, and a host of gourmet mustards. But true holiday stand-outs are the “Boozy Cakes,” which often sell out at the market, so order online, and pick-up at the market or have it delivered to your home. Visit their website for a full list of amazing products. Who wouldn’t want a slice of Orange Mimosa, Chocolate Kahlua, or a standRIO Magazine

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GREAT FINDS

Alamo Gristmill & Spice Kitchen

Kiss the Cook

click on this: ALAMO GRISTMILL & SPICE KITCHEN Alamogristmillandspice.com BAKERY LORRAINE Bakerylorraine.com BILL MILLER BAR-B-Q Billmillerbbq.com THE BOARD COUPLE Theboardcouple.com DEEP RIVER SPECIALTY FOODS Deepriverspecialtyfoods.com DELIA’S TAMALES Deliastamales.com THE FARMER’S BUTCHER Thefarmersbutcher.com KISS THE COOK Kissthecooktx.com/index_boerne.html MOTHER CULTURE YOGURT Motherculturesa.com PEARL FARMERS MARKET Atpearl.com/farmers-market

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If you want to leave charcuterie to the professionals, The Board Couple crafts charcuterie boards for delivery and pick-up. The edible art can be accompanied by a wine selection that includes champagne, red and white wines. Seasonal blooms and fare adorn each board, which are so pretty you may find it hard to dig in to enjoy the artisan cheeses, classic charcuterie meats, dried fruits, nuts, fresh fruits, seasonal spreads, and decadent accompaniments. Grazing tables and multi-board set-ups are available for holiday parties, business functions, or at-home celebrations, including the mornings of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.

For the freshest meats to add to your holiday table, The Farmer’s Butcher has beef, pork, and chicken, all pasture-raised on Texas farms, as well as many flavors of sausages and hot dogs. Holiday cooks are sure to find everything they need. Located just east of downtown, it’s a convenient stop that brings the best of Texas meats straight to you.

With all of these flavor options, be sure your kitchen is ready to cook and host with a stop at Boerne’s Kiss the Cook. Nestled in a renovated old home in Boerne’s quaint downtown shopping district, Kiss the Cook offers a full array of kitchen tools and gadgets. No matter what you need, you’ll find the best quality and selection of kitchen essentials. You’ll see things at Kiss the Cook you won’t find anywhere else. If they don’t have it, they’ll try to source it for you, and a trip out to Boerne always makes for fun shopping.

THe Farmer’s Butcher

If you’re not handy in the kitchen – or want someone else to do the work – have no fear. A part of the San Antonio landscape since 1953, Bill Miller Bar-B-Q is known for flavor year-round.

But when the holidays hit, the family-owned and operated South Texas staple kicks into overdrive.

In addition to everyday menu items, Bill Miller offers honey glazed ham, turkey, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, and more. But more importantly, they bring pumpkin pie to the table!

Or choose one of their classics – pecan, apple, lemon, and coconut pie. Just place your holiday order online 24 hours in advance for pick up at any local Bill Miller. Sit back, relax, and let Bill Miller do the cooking.

Of course, you can’t celebrate the holidays in San Antonio without tamales. There’s no end to the options available, with neighborhood favorites galore. And if you ask someone who makes the best, don’t be surprised if they say “mi abuela.”

But if you don’t have a Mexican grandmother serving up tamales, head to Delia’s Tamales. With 18 flavors served year-round, and menudo on the weekends.

WRITER’S BIO An award-winning writer, communications expert, and military spouse who enjoys finding new discoveries and revisiting old favorites in her adopted hometown, Dawn Robinette loves to tell stories. You can read more of her work at Alamo City Moms.

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CULTURE & COMMUNITY

e s U e R e v i t Cr e a of Places

By Dan R. Goddard

The Alamo has had many lives. Established as the Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718 and secularized by the 1790s, the Alamo was a military garrison, the first hospital in Texas, a Confederate and United States Army fort, a museum and general store, a warehouse, and a city police substation before becoming the Shrine of Texas Liberty we know today. Currently undergoing a $450 million renovation, designed to restore many of the features present during the 1836 battle, the Alamo will be reborn yet again. As the Alamo illustrates, the concept of “reuse and recycle” is nothing new to San Antonio.

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ALAMO QUARRY MARKET Now packed with restaurants, retail stores, and movie theaters, the Alamo Quarry Market was once home to Alamo Cement, owned by San Antonio Portland Cement Company, which helped build Texas for more than 100 years, including the Texas State Capitol in Austin. Built in 1908 on 500 acres outside the original city limits, where land was cheap, the cement plant was miles from the nearest streetcar stop. Because of its remote location, the company built more than 90 three-room cottages for the mostly MexicanAmerican workers and their families, who formed a close-knit labor community called “Cementville.”

During its 70 years of occupation, Cementville had a community pool, baseball diamond, auditorium, and a uniformed, 35-piece Cementville Band that played classical and patriotic music and marches. Electricity was added in the 1920s, but indoor plumbing did not arrive until the 1950s. After Alamo Cement moved its plant to Loop 1604 and Green Mountain Road, the cottages were razed for new development.

The once Cementville headquarters are now restaurants. The old plant, clinker shed, and smokestacks have become the Quarry Market. The rock pit is now the Quarry Golf Course. Some of the original factory buildings were incorporated into the Quarry Market shopping and entertainment complex, which opened in 1998. The former one-story clinker shed, where crushed rock was burned in a kiln, was converted to a four-story flagship structure that now houses Regal Alamo Quarry Stadium 16. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Alamo Quarry Market

Japanese Tea Garden

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Today, Alamo Quarry Market is a 580,000-square-foot, open-air complex with more than a dozen restaurants, including P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, J. Alexander’s, Canyon Cafe, California Pizza Kitchen, and Piatti Italian Ristorante. The 60-plus retail stores include Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, GAP, Pottery Barn, and unique specialty stores such as Lucchese Boot Co. and Learning Express Toys.

JAPANESE TEA GARDEN The first Portland cement plant west of the Mississippi River, founded in the 1880s by Alamo Portland and Roman Cement Co., occupied the area of today’s Japanese Tea Garden in Brackenridge Park. When the company moved to the Alamo Quarry Market site, all that was left was a big hole in the ground.

In 1917, City Parks Commissioner Ray Lambert led the abandoned quarry’s transformation into the Japanese Tea Garden

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with limestone bridges, ponds filled with Japanese koi, a Japanese-pagoda-style pavilion, café, and a 60-foot waterfall. In 1926, the city invited Kimi Eizo Jingu—a JapaneseAmerican artist and U.S. Army veteran—and his family to move in as caretakers. But after the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, antiJapanese sentiment gripped the country.

The city evicted the Jingus and erected a new sign reading “Chinese Tea Garden” by noted Mexican American artist Dionicio Rodriguez, which still stands. Later, the site was renamed the “Sunken Gardens.”

City Councilman Van Archer led efforts in the 1970s to restore the original name, citing the rescue of the Texas-based Lost Battalion by Nisei soldiers. The site returned to the name “Japanese Tea Garden” again in October 1984.

Restoration of the site was launched in 2005, and a grand re-opening took place in 2008.

The Jingu House restaurant opened in 2011.

The Japanese Tea Garden now hosts various events, including a jazz festival and other live music concerts.

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CULTURE & COMMUNITY Pearl Brewery

Morgan’s Wonderland

Morgan’s Wonderland

click on this: THE ALAMO Thealamo.org ALAMO QUARRY MARKET Quarrymarket.com BOTTLING DEPARTMENT FOOD HALL Bottlingdept.com CULINARY INSTITUTE OF AMERICA Ciachef.edu/cia-texas/ HISTORIC PEARL BREWERY Atpearl.com HOTEL EMMA Thehotelemma.com JAPANESE TEA GARDEN Saparksfoundation.org MORGAN’S WONDERLAND Morganswonderland.com SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS Sixflags.com/fiestatexas QUARRY GOLF COURSE Quarrygolf.com 30 RIO Magazine

SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS & MORGAN’S WONDERLAND Two other abandoned quarries in the city have undergone amazing transformations. Six Flags Fiesta Texas opened in 1992 inside a limestone quarry dating from 1934. In 2019, the park introduced a new theme area, DC Universe, including a new ride, The Joker Carnival of Chaos.

This swinging pendulum ride is among the world’s tallest at over 17 stories high and fastest at 75 miles per hour. Also new is Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster, a mind-blowing single rail coaster.

When Gordon Hartman formed his family foundation and set out to build a theme park accessible to all, especially those with special needs, he found the perfect location for the 25-acre Morgan’s Wonderland in what was once the Longhorn limestone quarry. Located on the east side of San Antonio, the safe and affordable theme park, the first of its kind, features more than 25 attractions, including rides, playgrounds, gardens, an eight-acre catch-and-release fishing lake, 18,000-square-foot special-event center, 575-seat amphitheater, picnic area, and rest spots.

north of downtown easily could have become an inner-city wasteland. However, a public-private partnership between the City of San Antonio and San Antonio-based development company Silver Ventures has transformed the old brewery into the hottest and hippest real estate in the city.

Pearl partnered with the Culinary Institute of America to launch its first urban campus focusing on Latin cuisine. The Bottling Department Food Hall, featuring diverse cuisine at affordable prices, opened in 2017. The 22-acre Pearl site is anchored by the five-star Hotel Emma. The grounds are scattered with repurposed equipment that create planters, fountains, and art. Restaurants include La Gloria by CIA graduate chef Johnny Hernandez, The Boiler House Texas Grill and Wine Garden, The Granary ‘Cue & Brew, Cured, and other restaurants plus unique shops and the popular Pearl Farmers Market on weekends.

WRITER’S BIO Dan R. Goddard is a longtime San Antonio arts writer.

HISTORIC PEARL BREWERY For more than a century, from 1883 to 2001, Pearl Brewery made beer. But when it closed, the abandoned buildings and rusting vintage equipment thesanantonioriverwalk.com

PLAY EXPLORE STAY

DINE SERVICES MAP

VISIT US!

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RECREATION

Brackenridge Park Golf Course

Fore!

The Golfer’s Guide to San Antonio

By Drew Henry

Are you looking for the perfect tee time in San Antonio? A little birdie has the scoop on the best time and courses for everyone from duffer to pro. Splurge on a cart, because we’re going to share the easiest way to book the best tee times in the city and at the best prices. Plus, we’ll be visiting a historic golf course that serves as home to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, a rocking course built in a quarry, and a driving range that soars into the sky! Get your clubs;

Quarry Golf Course

it’s time to hit the fairway.

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ROUND OUT THE PAR-FECT DAY!

Brackenridge Park contains over 300 acres of fun just north of downtown, including a driving range and putting green.

click on this: ALAMO CITY GOLF TRAIL Alamocitygolftrail.com

THE QUARRY GOLF COURSE Quarrygolf.com

BRACKENRIDGE PARK GOLF COURSE Alamocitygolftrail.com/brackenridge

TOPGOLF Topgolf.com/us/san-antonio

Quarry Golf Course

ALAMO CITY GOLF TRAIL Alamo City Golf Trail is the ultimate resource for the San Antonio golfer. Here, you may book at any of the city’s eight public courses, including Brackenridge Park, Cedar Creek, Mission del Lago, Northern Hills, Olmos Basin, Riverside, San Pedro, and Willow Springs. Additionally, you can easily research and compare courses for green and cart fees, slope ratings, the course architect, and maybe most importantly, if they have a snack bar. You can also purchase a membership that provides access to all eight courses at a discounted rate. Membership starts at $64.95 and is a great investment for the fun-seeking weekender. Hey, how about the gift of membership for the golfer in your life?

BRACKENRIDGE PARK GOLF COURSE One very special course along the Alamo City Golf Trail is the Brackenridge Park Golf Course. This historic course is the oldest in San Antonio. “Old Brack” was designed by the famous golf course architect A. W. Tillinghast in 1916 and was restored to its former glory in 2008. It now reflects the original layout along with course condition upgrades that rival premier courses across the country.

Now you can enjoy the classic sport as intended all those thesanantonioriverwalk.com

years ago. Old Brack is the perfect course for die-hard golf aficionados who love the history of the sport.

Brackenridge Park Golf Course is also the home of the first Texas Open. How cool would it be to play where the original pros played? It is also home to the Texas Golf Hall of Fame. Tour the beautiful trophy room located inside the clubhouse for some pregame inspiration. To add your name in the trophy room, you simply have to beat the odds of 12,000 to 1 of the average golfer making a hole-in-one.

THE QUARRY GOLF COURSE Time for the next hole! The Quarry Golf Course is something truly special that golfers won’t find anywhere else. Keith Foster designed the course in 1993 in the hollowed-out grounds of San Antonio’s old cement quarry dating back to 1908. The quarry dig created striking views and challenging terrain. It is one of the top-rated courses in the city, has been featured on the Discovery Channel, and is rated the seventh most unique course in the entire

ROUND OUT THE PAR-FECT DAY! The Quarry Golf Course is located next to the Alamo Quarry Market, which features upscale shopping and entertainment.

Browse the shops, grab an ice cream cone, and catch a movie after the game.

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RECREATION

Topgolf

United States. This course truly offers a luxury experience that is unlike any course you’ve played before.

The front nine holes play in a links-style format and feature rolling hills, immaculate greens, and native Texas foliage.

Now the back nine is where things get interesting. Get ready to enter the original quarry, where your shots will fly over large expanses with striking rock formations and smokestacks in the background. In addition to challenging greens and beautiful views, this course offers a high-end country club experience. You can dine at the Cementville Grille, which features a chef-inspired menu and views of the expanses. Cheers to the greatest game ever played!

TOPGOLF Are you a bit of a golf novice but looking to get in on the fun of the game? Topgolf offers a bowling-ally-style driving range experience that is perfect for pros looking to work on their long game or newbies looking to have a good time. This is definitely an elevated golf experience, as the bays tower into the sky! There are four-floors with over 100 airconditioned driving bays where you can team up with friends, order cocktails, appetizers, and mouthwatering meals like juicy burgers and crispy fries. Take turns shooting into holes from your hitting bay, as you chill out and watch TV, have a bite, and a drink or two.

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ROUND OUT THE PAR-FECT DAY!

Topgolf is near La Cantera and The Rim. These are two of San Antonio’s premier shopping destinations. Stroll through luxury department stores as well as some of your favorite fashion go tos. Then, take the opportunity to wrap up your day with delicious meals from Texas favorites like Whiskey Cake. Word of advice, you have to get the whiskey cake dessert! (You will thank me later.)

The fun doesn’t stop there. You can also check out the rooftop terrace, the arcade, and fan-favorite party games like giant Jenga. Kick back and relax as you bask in the sunset with views over the Texas hills. We don’t think it can get much better than this! This golf experience is great for friends, families, business groups, and more. No matter the crowd, it’s sure to be a hole in one.

WRITER’S BIO Drew Henry is a writer, content creator, and founder of the Design Dudes blog. When he’s not writing, he’s out exploring all Texas has to offer. View his work at DrewHenryWrites. com and get some home design tips at DesignDudesLife. com. Follow on Instagram: @design_dudes.

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Celebrating Biga’s 20th Anniversary on the River Walk After two decades, the incredible team at Biga on the Banks is feeling grateful.

Twenty years ago, Chef Bruce Auden opened the doors to a place that has become a staple of the downtown San Antonio food scene. Over the years, those same faces have consistently been a part of birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, and holiday celebrations; and are still the faces greeting guests, serving food as well as hospitality, and building friendships tableside. And although they may have a few more wrinkles and grey hair, those same smiles still light behind the eyes of a team this city has come to think of as family.

Even 2020 hasn’t been able to stop the Biga team. In a year filled with uncertainty, Biga on the Banks has remained a welcoming space to feel that sense of warmth and reliability that guests truly appreciate.

“You don’t get to 20 years without creating relationships,” said Director of Special Events, Perny Shea.

Shea said since the restaurant reopened this fall, guests have been calling to book reservations for everything from birthday parties and weddings to intimate tastings with chef-selected five-course customized menus and wine and tequila pairings. The bar has returned to life with friends meeting for drinks and light bites, and she said guests have been eager to return because Biga has always been a place they can count on­ —and that matters now more than ever.

With intimate two-top tables with privacy curtains and outdoor fresh-air dining, guests feel safe sitting down to the comfort foods thesanantonioriverwalk.com

they’ve missed. There’s more to the slowcooked beef short ribs and smashed Yukons than flavor. There’s an unspoken element of familiarity and continuity.

Biga on the Banks is also one of the only downtown dining spots with the capacity to hold socially distanced large parties. With an expandable banquet room, Biga can host up to 60 people while keeping space and maintaining an inviting, but private, atmosphere.

And new Biga fans—or BigAmigos—are born every day. The $35 three-course prix fixe menu is the perfect way to ease into the waters of fine dining, offering a taste of refinement before diving into duck confit on your own.

And if you manage a way to look up from your plate, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better riverside views than the open-air seating on the Biga balcony. Time slows down a bit when you’re sipping a hand-crafted cocktail and enjoying light bites from the bar while

overlooking the city and the iconic San Antonio River.

After decades in the industry, Chef Bruce has created a culinary incubator at Biga, mentoring some of the best and brightest young chefs in the business, who, in turn, have brought distinct flavor and inspiration from across the globe to the plates and palates of Biga guests.

At Biga, things are ever-changing and yet reassuringly consistent. The apple-smoked salmon chalupa may pop on the menu, but guests know that at the end of it all, the sticky toffee pudding — and the team they’ve come to know as family — will always be around with the warmth and comfort of a place we know and love, as Biga.

To book your special occasion or find out more, visit biga.com or call (210) 225-0722.

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24 48 72 HOURS

by Crystal Henry

on Day one. . .

San Antonio Botanical Gardens

DAY 1 THANKFUL FOR SIMPLE PLEASURES

Fill your heart with gratitude for the simple things in life with a walk on the lighter side of the city.

Mission Reach

FEED THE SOUL Feed your soul and your belly with some tasty goodness at Mi Tierra Cafe. Sit down among the Papel Picado and experience a plate of machacado with homemade Mexican style beef jerky, scrambled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños.

There’s a beautiful dance that happens on the tongue when you wash down a mouthful of Mexican food with a cup of coffee, so let your tastebuds experience the magic.

MARKET STROLL Grab a concha from the bakery and head out into Market Square for souvenir shopping in Old Mexico. You’re still north of the border, but you won’t find a more concentrated collection of all the authentic handcrafted wonders of our neighbors to the south. Support local shop owners and do some holiday shopping outside of a big box this month in the square.

NATURE WALK There’s something beautifully freeing about getting lost in thought, and San Antonio has plenty of places to lose yourself. Take 36 RIO Magazine

Market Square

time today for a nature walk through the San Antonio Botanical Gardens.

Find your moment of Zen at the OrigamiintheGarden exhibit, on display now through May. Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box have created a whimsical outdoor show capturing the delicate nature of paper art in life-sized metal sculptures.

MEANDER ALONG THE MISSIONS If you’re closer to the river, take your walking shoes to Mission Reach, a gorgeous eight-mile stretch of the San Antonio River south of downtown. The river connects to four of the five UNESCO World Heritage missions, and this quiet stretch makes it easy for you to connect with nature. Breathe in these simple pleasures among native plants and flowing aquatic trail. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

It is with a grateful heart that we present three days of things we are thankful for in the River City.

on Day two. . .

River Walk Art Garden

DAY 2 THANKFUL FOR THE ARTS Creativity flows in this city, as sure as the waters of the San Antonio River.

This month take a moment to appreciate the artists and venues that celebrate the beauty in the world.

ALL THAT JAZZ On Nov. 20, the slinky sounds of smooth jazz will drift and dance through the audience at the Empire Theater. After months of waiting, patrons of performance art will be welcomed back into the theater with some of the most groundbreaking jazz musicians of the day.

The performance is part of the 2020 Alamo City Jazz Series, and it will feature Kirk Whalum and a special guest. Solve the mystery by booking seats for the 8 p.m. show, and don’t hold back your applause.

River Walk Art Garden

OUTDOOR GALLERY Along the River Walk, visitors gain free entrance to a fabulous outdoor gallery. The River Walk Public Art Garden showcases rotating installations, so even if you’ve been once, it’s worth an extra trip.

Stop in front of the twists and curves of these brightly colored sculptures and ruminate on this in-person Rorschach test. Snap a pic, tag us on Instagram and tell us what you see @thesanantonioriverwalk.

DRIFT Give your gams a break and hitch a ride on a riverboat taxi from Go Rio Cruises. The boats run along the river from downtown to Museum Reach. Let the cooler air wash over you as you gaze up at the architecture lining the city’s backdrop. Locals can get a monthly pass that allows full on-and-off access along the water path for an entire month.

CULINARY ART Paint your palate with the tasty tones of a meal from Tre Trattoria. Nestled inside the San Antonio Museum of Art, this Tuscan themed eatery is an exhibit all of its own. With traditional family-style dining and regional dishes like Campanelle Bolognese and housemade pasta, you’ll think you’ve stepped right into your own Eat, Pray, Love fantasy. SAMA members receive a 10 percent discount, and diners can feel socially distant and safe sitting in the open-air patio.

TRIBAL TRIBUTE In honor of SAMA’s 40th anniversary, Elizabeth and Robert Lende are lending their collection of tribal silver jewelry for the Turkmen and Miao Jewelry exhibit. This collection covers cultures across the Middle East, Asia, North Africa, and the Americas.

Go River Cruises

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on day three. . .

Battalion

DAY 3 THANKFUL FOR SACRIFICES Nothing says gratitude like paying tribute to those who have picked up the tab. Today we honor the sacrifices of those who risk it all to protect our lives.

BLAZE OF GLORY No one knows why the iconic big red truck holds such a captive audience, but maybe it’s because we learn from a young age about the brave souls who ride it. Just around the corner from the Alamo, the San Antonio Fire Museum celebrates another group of heroes who risked their lives for Texans. Scheduled group tours are $2 per person, and the museum offers free admission on the first Tuesday of every month.

HOT LUNCH Stay on theme and grab lunch from a historic fire station just minutes from the River Walk. Battalion is the fiery Italian sister of local favorites Feast, Rebelle, and PlayLand of the Goodman-Bowers team. This sexy little spot is housed inside Historic Firehouse #7 and features authentic Italian dishes served family-style. This is sultry culinary excellence with an industrial glam feel and three-cheese beef and pork meatballs that will set off alarm bells in your mouth.

San Antonio Fire Museum

click on this: BATTALION Battalionsa.com EMPIRE THEATER Majesticempire.com GO RIO CRUISES Goriocruises.com HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL Hmmsa.org MI TIERRA Mitierracafe.com

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SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN Sabot.org SAN ANTONIO FIRE MUSEUM Sanantoniofiremuseum.org SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART Samuseum.org TRE TRATTORIA Tretrattoria.com

Somber MOMENT Not all sacrifices are by choice. So take time today to honor those who lost their lives during one of the greatest atrocities known to our world—the Holocaust.

During COVID the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio is offering virtual tours with a wide array of multimedia resources and an online interactive portal that helps to honor the people we lost and remind us to be vigilant so that these unspeakable horrors are not repeated.

WRITER’S BIO Crystal Henry is a loyal Texan and an award-winning author, writer, and columnist. She is fluent in both sarcasm and English, and evidence of those bilingual writing talents can be found at crystalhenrywrites.com. Or follow her on FB + IG @crystalhenrywrites and on Twitter @chenrywrites.

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SAN ANTONIO FOOD & DRINK AMERICAN BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO 421 East Commerce St. boudros.com p44, 16

SALTGRASS STEAK HOUSE 502 River Walk saltgrass.com p44,53 53

BIGA ON THE BANKS 203 S. St. Mary’s Street biga.com

TEX’S RIVER WALK AND SPORTS BAR 200 S. Alamo texssportsbar.com p44, 27

BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO. 406 Navarro bubbagump.com CHILI’S ON THE RIVERWALK 849 East Commerce St. Chilis.com DAVE & BUSTER’S 849 E. Commerce St. daveandbusters.com DICK’S LAST RESORT 223 Losoya St. dickslastresort.com p44, 18 EL TROPICANO HOTEL 110 Lexington Avenue. eltropicanohotel.com HARD ROCK CAFÉ 111 W Crockett St #210 hardrock.com HOWL AT THE MOON 111 West Crockett St. #201 howlatthemoon.com IHOP 849 E. Commerce 210-444-1201 JAZZ, TX 312 Pearl Parkway #6001 JazzTX.com LAS CANARIAS 112 College Street omnihotels.com LONESTAR CAFE 237 Losoya lonestarcafe.us MARGARITAVILLE 849 E. Commerce St. margaritavillesanantonio.com RAINFOREST CAFÉ 110 E. Crockett rainforestcafe.com p44, 17 RUTH CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 600 E. Market St. ruthschris.com THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS 526 Riverwalk therepublicoftexasrestaurant.com THE RIVER’S EDGE CAFÉ AND PATIO BAR 200 S. Alamo St. riversedgecafesa.com

BBQ COUNTY LINE BARBEQUE SPORTS BAR 111 W. Crockett St. countyline.com BBQ - p44, 7 BRAZILIAN FOGO DE CHAO 849 E. Commerce St. fogodechao.com TEXAS DE BRAZIL 313 E. Houston St. texasdebrazil.com BRITISH MAD DOGS 123 Losoya St. maddogs.net p44, 11 DELI SCHILO’S 424 E. Commerce St. schilos.com p50, 26

MICHELINO’S 521 Riverwalk michelinos.us.

PAESANOS 111 W. Crockett #100 www.paesanosriverwalk.com p44, 54 PIZZARITAS 245 E. Commerce pizzaritas.com ZOCCA 420 W. Market zoccariverwalk.com MEXICAN ACENAR 146 E. Houston acenar.com p44, 2 SEAFOOD CHART HOUSE Tower of the Americas, 739 East Cesar E. Chavez toweroftheamericas.com

ON THE BEND 123 Losoya St. onthebendsa.com p44, 96 TEX-MEX CAFÉ OLE 430 E. Commerce St. cafeole.us CASA RIO 430 E. Commerce St. casa-rio.com p44, 61 IRON CACTUS 200 River Walk ironcactus.com p44, 4 THE ORIGINAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT 528 River Walk originalmexican.com p44, 14

JOE’S CRAB SHACK 212 College Street Ste 10 joescrabshack.com

RIO RIO CANTINA 421 E. Commerce St. rioriocantina.com p44, 13

LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE 517 N. Presa landrysseafood.com

RITA’S ON THE RIVER 245 E. Commerce, Suite 100 ritasontheriver.com

GERMAN BIER GARTEN 124-150 Losoya St. alamobiergarten.com p44, 36 ICE CREAM JUSTIN’S ICE CREAM 245 E Commerce St. mercadoritas.com KILWINS 109 Alamo Plaza Kilwins.com IRISH DURTY NELLY’S IRISH PUB 200 S. Alamo St. durtynellyspub.com p44, 80 ITALIAN FIG TREE 515 Villita dine.figtreerestaurant.com GUILLERMO’S 618 McCullough St. guillermosdowntown.com LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE 231 S. Alamo St. dine.littlerheinsteakhouse.com

The River Walk is dog-friendly!

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine

39

SHOPPING ALAMO PLAZA SHIRTS 325 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 223-2347 ALAMO QUARRY MARKET 255 East Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-8885 www.quarrymarket.com

THE ALLEY ON BITTERS 555 W. Bitters Rd. San Antonio, TX 78206 (210) 494-3226 www.TheAlleyOnBitters.com ANGELITA’S Building 2, 418 Villita St. angelitaboutique.webs.com ART PACE 445 N Main Ave artpace.org BATTLE FOR TEXAS 849 E. Commerce battlefortexas.com BONITA RITA’S 245 E. Commerce, #100 San Antonio, TX 78205 mercadoritas.com BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM 210 W. Market Street briscoemuseum.org

THE FIESTA STORE 2611 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 227-5191 www.fiesta-sa.org

PENNERS DOWNTOWN 311 W. Commerce San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 226-2487 www.pennersinc.com

FIVE & DIME GENERAL STORE 101 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 233-0166 fiveanddimegs.com

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT 301 Alamo Plaza ripleys.com/sanantonio

GALLERY VETRO CREATIVE ARTGLASS 250 E. Houston San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 354-0001 GARCIA ART GLASS 715 South Alamo San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 223-1400 www.garciaartglass COWBOY’S ALAMO CITY HARLEYDAVIDSON RIVERWALK BOUTIQUE RIVERWALK BOUTIQUE 111 West Crockett St. Suite 209 cowboysalamocityharley.com HUEBNER OAKS 11745 IH 10 West San Antonio, TX 78230 shophuebneroaks.com

BUCKHORN MUSEUM 318 E Houston St. buckhornmuseum.com

KENDRA SCOTT 310 East Basse Rd. #101 San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 591-7180 www.kendrascott.com

CASA SALAZAR 216 E. Houston San Antonio, 78205 (210) 472-2272 themajestic.com/casa

LOS PATIOS 2015 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 655-6171 www.lospatios.com

THE COLLECTION 7959 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-3130 thecollectionsanantonio.com

LUCCHESE BOOT COMPANY 255 East Basse Rd #800 San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-9419 www.lucchese.com

DEL SOL OF SAN ANTONIO 321 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 231-0900 www.delsol.com

MERCADORITA’S 245 E. Commerce & Bonita San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 286-7432

DOSEUM 2800 Broadway St. thedoseum.org EL MERCADO 514 W. Commerce San Antonio, TX 78207 (210) 207-8600 www.sanantonio.gov/ marketsquare FIESTA ON MAIN 2025 North Main Avenue San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 738-1188 www.alamofiesta.com

40 RIO Magazine

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road naturalbridgecaverns.com NORTH STAR MALL 7400 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 340-6627 www.northstarmall.com PARIS HATTERS 119 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 223-3453 www.parishatters.com

SAN ANGEL FOLK ART 110 Blue Star San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 226-6688 www.sanangelfolkart.com SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART 200 West Jones Avenue samuseum.org SAN ANTONIO VISITORS CENTER 317 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 207-6871 www.visitsan antonio.com SHOPS OF LA CANTERA 15900 La Cantera Pkwy San Antonio, TX 78256 (210) 582-6255 theshopsatlacantera.com SHOPS AT RIVER CENTER 849 E. Commerce shoprivercenter.com

TIENDA LA GARZA 110 Broadway, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 222-2133 THE TWIG BOOK SHOP 306 Pearl Parkway #106 San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 826-6411 thetwig.indiebound.com THE UNOFFICIAL BEST OF TEXAS 101 Alamo Plaza, #3 San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 227-0242 THE VINEYARD 1207 North Loop 1604 W San Antonio, TX 78258 thevineyardshoppingcenter.com WYNDHAM SAN ANTONIO RIVERWALK 111 E. Pecan Street San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 489-9768 www.sawyn.com THE WESTIN RIVERWALK 420 W. Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 413-9731 www.westin.com

77T’S SOUVENIRS & T-SHIRTS 207 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 549-1279 www.77tshirts.com

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE 418 Villita Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 207-8614 • www.lavillita.com ANGELITA La Villita - Bldg. 2 San Antonio, TX 78205 210- 224-8362 www.lavillita.com CASA MANOS ALEGRES La Villita - Bldg. 6 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-313-7293 www.lavillita.com COPPER GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 11 San Antonio, TX 78205 210.271.3856 www.thecoppergallery.com

PLAZA TAXCO La Villita, Bldg.16B San Antonio, TX 78205 210-994-5259 www.plazataxco.com RIVER ART GROUP La Villita - Bldg. 14 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-226-8752 www.rivergroup.com STARVING ARTIST GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 12 San Antonio, TX 78205 210.226.3593 www.lavillita.com

LITTLE STUDIO GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 23 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-227-8893 www.lavillita.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Shop Small.

Shop Local.

The perfect holiday gift awaits at Historic Market Square. With over 100 locally owned shops, you’ll find authentic Mexican curious and artifacts, hand-crafted leather goods, and a diverse collection of cultural apparel.

@marketsquaresa thesanantonioriverwalk.com

514 W. Commerce St.

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84 Tobin Center

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21 Rudy Choperena 23 Flight Gallery

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19 La Focaccia

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51 Mokara Hotel & Spa 52 Hyatt Regency 54 Homewood Suites & Hotel N. MAIN AVE

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12 Jazz, TX

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11 Sams Burger Joint Music Hall

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10 Minnie’s Tavern Rye House

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96 On the Bend Oyster Bar & Lounge

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94 Dave & Busters

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91 Guadalajara Grill

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80 Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub

41 Embassy Suites 42 Sheraton Gunter Hotel 43 The St. Anthony Hotel 44 Marriott Townplace 45 Hotel Valencia 46 Holiday Inn 47 Marriott Courtyard 48 Drury NA Inn VAR RO Hotel 49 Drury Plaza ST. 50 Omni La Mansion RIC

77 Ruth’s Chris Steak House

281 JO

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75 Fig Tree Restaurant

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57 Dorrego’s

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55 The Republic of Texas

71 Zocca Cuisine d' Italia

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54 Paesanos Riverwalk

67 Biga on the Banksn

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98 LEGOLAND Discovery Center and Sealife San Antonio

53 Saltgrass

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28 Little Rhein Steak House

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79 Cowboy’s Alamo Harley Davidson 81 Turquoise River Trading Company

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95 Mokara Spa

78 Freedom Torch

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13 Rio Rio Cantina 15 Coyote Ugly

37 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

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11 Mad Dogs British Pub

14 Original Mexican Restaurant

MISCELLANEOUS 34 CitySightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Double Deckers

40 The Magik Theatre

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39 Sisters Grimm Tours

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9 Howl At The Moon 10 Landry’s Seafood

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4 Iron Cactus Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar

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25 Riverwalk Wine & Spirits

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55 Westin Riverwalk 58 Hilton Palacio Del Rio 60 Wyndham River Walk 64 Menger Hotel 82 Grand Hyatt 86 Hotel Contessa 87 Hotel Havana

ATTRACTIONS & SHOPPING

3 Bella On The River

BOWIE ST.

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LOCATIONS LISTING

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Share your pics and join the conversation use #DowntownSATX. Brought to you by Centro San Antonio thesanantonioriverwalk.com

LOCATIONS LISTING RESTAURANTS

4 La Margarita Mexican

Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Chart House Restaurant

41 Market Square

11 Art Pace

3 Mi Tierra Cafe Y Panaderia

42 Spanish Governor’s Palace

13 San Antonio Museum

48 Alta Vista Skate Shop

of Art

5 Denny’s

14 Institute of Texan Culture

52 Tresor

18 Francesco’s Gelato

18 Yasmin’s Boutique

56 Maverick Carter House

20 Pat O’Brien’s

19 Out West

36 Augies Alamo City

21 Tienda La Garza

BBQ Steakhouse

22 The Amazing Mirror Maze

44 Bourbon Street Seafood

23 San Antonio General Store

Kitchen River Walk Downtown

25 Majestic Theatre

51 Biga on the Banks

29 Aztec Theatre

53 Guillermo’s 54 Jazz, TX 55 IHOP

30 Ripley’s Haunted

Adventure/Tomb Rider 3D

31 Guiness World Records

6 Paris Hatters 7 Buckhorn Saloon &

33 The Alamo

Museum

8 The Pearl 9 Shops at RiverCenter 10 Tower of the Americas/

HOTELS 12 Wyndham Garden

35 Tobin Center 38 Angelita’s

River Walk

15 Crockett Hotel 16 Sheraton Gunter Hotel 17 Menger Hotel 24 El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel 43 Marriott Plaza San Antonio

Museum

32 Ripley’s Believe it or Not/ Louis Tussaud’s Wax Works

ATTRACTIONS & SHOPPING

LIKE US!

MISCELLANEOUS 34 CitySightseeing Double

Decker Tour

37 Tom’s Wheelchair &

ScooterRentals

38 USO 69 San Antonio Public Library

thesanantonioriverwalk.com @TheSanAntonio RiverWalkOfficial @theSAriverwalk thesanantonioriverwalk The San Antonio River Walk Hugman @TheSAriverwalk

39 Plaza Taxco 40 VFW Post 76

SAN ANTONIO What’s OPEN, What’s NOT For up-to-date information please visit

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine

45

COUPONS

12/31/20

Tower of the Americas

210 W Market St. San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 299-4499 BriscoeMuseum.org

$2 OFF

General Adult Admission SAVE UP TO $8 Open Tue–Sun 10AM with seasonal closing hours | Closed Mondays Expires 11/30/2020

2

$

OFF TOWER TICKET

701 Bowie, San Antonio, TX 78205

210.223.3101

TowerOfTheAmericas.com Ticket includes unlimited access to Observation Deck, Flags over Texas & 4-D Theater Ride. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Limit one $2.00 off coupon per person. No cash value.

Expires 11/30/2020

110 E. Crockett on the Riverwalk 210-277-6300

FREE CHEF’S APPETIZER OF THE DAY

With the purchase of an adult entrée.

One coupon per table per visit. Offer at Riverwalk location only.

Must present coupon. Expires 11/30/2020

FREE FLAUTA APPETIZER (seasoned chicken rolled up in a tortilla)

with the purchase of 1 entrée Coupon not valid with other offers or coupons.

Please present coupon to server at time of ordering.

FREE CHILE CON QUESO!

with purchase of an Entrée Redeem this coupon for a f ree order of Chile con Queso. Not valid with any other offer. One coupon per 4 entrées.

Dine-in only. Expires 12/31/20.

46 46 46 RIO RIO RIOMagazine Magazine Magazine

20% OFF

ENTIRE GUEST CHECK

One coupon, per check, per visit. Not valid with any other coupons or promotional offers. Coupon has no cash value. No change returned. Taxes and gratuity not included. Alcoholic beverages not included. Valid only 903 E. Commerce St. San Antonio, TX location. Selection and prices may vary. Only original coupon accepted. Photocopied and Internet printed or purchased coupons are not valid. No substitutions. © 2014 DFO, LLC. Printed in the U.S.A. Offer ends 11/30/20

Complimentary House Dessert with order of an entrée.

111 W. Crockett Street, Suite 101 (210) 227-2782 paesanosriverwalk.com

Expires 11/30/20

Not valid with any other offer or discount.

Offer only valid at Paesanos Riverwalk location.

$

3

OFF

ADULT OR CHILD TICKET

301 Alamo Plaza •210-224-9299

RIPLEYS.COM/SANANTONIO

2 0 0 R I V E R WA L K , S TE . 1 0 0 S A N A NTO NI O , TX 7 8 2 0 5 (2 1 0 ) 2 2 4 -9 8 3 5

I RONCACTUS . COM

RIO

Not valid with any other offer. Good up to six people.

Expires 11/30/20 • ©RIPLEY ENTERTAINMENT INC. - RIO MAG

10% OFF this La Villita location

Plaza Taxco (Excluding Sales Items)

See our ad on page 19 thesanantonioriverwalk.com thesanantonioriverwalk.com thesanantonioriverwalk.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS DINING/RESTAURANTS Boudro’s A Texas Bistro on the River Walk www.boudros.com 210-224-8484 Bubba Gump Shrimp Company www.bubbagump.com 210-224-4867 Chart House www.TowerOfTheAmericas.com 210-223-3101 The County Line www.countyline.com 210-229-1941 Dave & Buster’s www.daveandbusters.com 210-951-3600 Denny’s Riverwalk www.dennys.com 210-223-4321

The Original Mexican Restaurant & Bar www.theoriginalmexican.com 210-224-9951

MUSEUM Briscoe Western Art Museum www.briscoemuseum.org 210-299-4499

Paesanos RiverWalk www.paesanosriverwalk.com 210-227-2782

Buckhorn Saloon & Museum www.buckhornmuseum.com 210-247-4000

Rainforest Café www.rainforestcafe.com 210-277-6300

San Antonio Conservation Society www.saconservation.org/homestead 210-225-5924

Restaurante Pico de Gallo www.picodegallo.com 210-225-6060

ATTRACTIONS Cascade Caverns www.cascadecaverns.com 830-755-8080

Rio Rio Cantina www.riorioriverwalk.com 210-226-8462 DISTILLERY Tito’s Handmade Vodka www.titosvodka.com

Dick’s Last Resort www.dickslastresort.com 210-224-0026

SHOPPING Angelita’s www.angelitasa.com 210-224-8362

Guadalajara Grill www.guadalajaragrill.us 210-222-1992

Market Square www.marketsquaresa.com 210-207-8600

Iron Cactus www.ironcactus.com 210-224-9835

Cowboys Alamo City Harley Davidson on the RiverWalk www.cowboysalamocityharley.com 210-212-4461

Landry’s Saltgrass Steakhouse www.saltgrass.com 210-222-9092

La Villita Historic Village www.lavillitasanantonio.com 210-207-8614

Landry’s Seafood www.landrysseafood.com 210-229-1010

Paris Hatters www.parishatters.com 210-223-3453

Mi Tierra Café www.mitierracafe.com 210-225-1262

Plaza Taxco www.plazataxco.com 210-212-6733

La Margarita Mexican Restaurant www.lamargarita.com 210-227-7140

Shops at Rivercenter www.shoprivercenter.com 210-225-0000

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Dave & Buster’s www.daveandbusters.com 210-951-3600 GO RIO River Cruises www.goriocruises.com 210-227-4746 Mirror Maze 210-224-2288 Ripley’s/Waxworks www.ripleys.com 210-224-9299 Sealife San Antonio www.SEALIFE.com/San-Antonio NIGHTLIFE Hilton Palacio Del Rio/Durty Nelly’s/ Tex’s Riverwalk Sports Bar www.PalacioDelRio.Hilton.com 210-224-3368

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48 RIO Magazine

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