FLAVOR 2013-2014 SAN ANTONIO’S ULTIMATE FOOD LOVER’S GUIDE sacurrent.com
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Publisher: Michael Wagner Associate Publisher: Lara Fischer Editor in Chief: Callie Enlow Flavor Editor: Jessica Elizarraras Art Director: Eli Miller EDITORIAL Contributing Writers: Lauren Madrid, Miriam Sitz Contributing Photographers: Ana Aguirre, Sunni Hammer, Josh Huskin, Dan Payton Contributing Artist: Jeremiah Teutsch Digital Content Editor: Isis Madrid Intern: Jennifer Luna ADVERTISING Advertising Director: Lara Fischer (x105) Account Manager: Chelsea Bourque (x123) Marketing Manager: Cassandra Yardeni (x106) Senior Account Executives: Carlos Aguirre (x117), Johnny Deosdade (x114) Account Executives: Sarah Estrada (x120), Blanca Morales (x118), Burgundy Woods (x119) PRODUCTION Production Manager: John Mata Graphic Designer: Tina Corbeil Production Interns: Amanda Gonzales CIRCULATION Circulation Director: Justin Lopez (x121) Distribution: Juanita Alpizar, Oscar Alpizar, Sergio Alpizar, Chris Bubel, Pam Clepper, Joe Dominguez, Gabriella Gutierez, Terry McClelland, John Miller, Jose Trevino, Charles Tiller BUSINESS Business Manager: Elizabeth Hubbard Office Assistant: Kelsie Perez San Antonio Current 915 Dallas San Antonio, Texas 78215 Editorial: (210) 227-0044 / Fax: (210) 227-7755 Advertising: (210) 227-0044 Fax: (210) 227-7733
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ON THE COVER
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2013-2014
La Tequilera del Patron’s tempting house specialty, Chamorro de Puerco. The baked pork is marinated in La Tequilera’s exclusive recipe and served with toreado onions and beans. Full listing on pp. 81. Photo by Josh Huskin. Cover by Richard Fisher.
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APPETIZERS 9 Get Board The cheapest, easiest way to sample SA’s best flavors
10 Brunch for Any Appetite Four great ways to start your weekend
11 Moveable Feast Eating your way through the heart of the city
ENTREE 12 What’s Cooking? Five local star chefs dish out advice and opinions on everything from cringe-worthy dinner guests to how to re-create restaurant magic at home
DESSERT 17 The ‘It’ Dessert Why is panna cotta so hot right now?
LISTINGS
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19 American
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31 Barbecue
50 European
72 Markets
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Flavor 2013-2014 /// sacurrent.com
HAPPY HOUR DRINK & FOOD PRICES 3-7P TUES-FRI Monday Happy Hour All Day
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A Shortcut to the
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434 N. Loop 1604 W. • San Antonio, TX 78232 • 210-491-1378
McNay Art Museum 6000 North New Braunfels San Antonio, TX 78209 210.805.1768 | mcnayart.org
Jane & Arthur Stieren Center for Exhibitions
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2014 Feature Exhibitions Robert Indiana: Beyond LOVE February 5, 2014 | May 25, 2014
Beauty Reigns: A Baroque Sensibility in Recent Painting June 11, 2014 | August 17, 2014
Intimate Impressionism: French Painting from the National Gallery of Art September 3, 2014 | January 4, 2015
COURTESY PHOTO
GET BOARD The cheapest, easiest way to sample SA’s best flavors As San Antonio slowly but surely turns into a food destination for hungry travelers, chefs across the city are highlighting some of their most adventurous, indulgent ingredients before diners even ponder their main course. Antipasti, charcuterie and high-end cheese boards come across as culinary playscapes, Mix and match charcuterie and cheese, or let Chef Nanez at Bohanan’s decide for you each offering a smattering of something different to surprise even the most jaded customer. New restaurants like Javier Flores’ Spanish-inspired Barraca mustards or house-made seasonal mustards, toasted breads joined the likes of Tre Trattoria, Il Sogno, Dough Pizzeria Napoletana, and honeycombs. “I had people ask why we went with the The Granary and Bohanan’s in featuring meat- and cheese-filled honeycombs at first, but it’s such a classic thing to do,” Nanez boards (or at Barraca, jamon- and manchego-filled tablitas) as an said. Now, guests ask for extra. option for ravenous patrons looking for a shared experience, or Chef Tim Rattray is also a fan of using honeycombs on boards those who want just a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. ($15). Rattray’s The Granary carries Texas cheeses, which change “At times we’re handcuffed by selections–I can’t take the frequently. A recent board contained Birdville Reserve and Drunken golden beets off the menu because people would scream at Monk cheese from Eagle Mountain Cheese Farmhouse in Granbury me,” said Tre’s Jason Dady, only half-joking about his popular and a dreamy Hopelessly Bleu goat cheese from Pure Luck Dairy vegetable antipasti (four selections for $18). On the meatier in Dripping Springs. He completed it with the addition of crunchy side, Tre provides salumi, or cured meats, choices like househouse pickles, chutney and guajillo honey from Carrizo Springs. cured pastrami, smoked foie gras, a familiar prosciutto di Parma, Head down the street to Minnie’s Tavern, where diners will find soppressetta and a salame Emilia (three for $18). He sources a selection of triple-cream, semi-soft and hard-aged cheeses. his salumi predominantly from a New York-based company, Andrew Weissman first served cheese plates at Le Reve in 1997, Salumeria Biellese, or locally from Gaucho Gourmet, owned by so it made sense for the chef to add them back now that he owns brothers Luciano and Juan Manuel Ciorciari. another French restaurant. The assortment runs the gamut of “Gaucho emerged as a leader in high-end imports, which most sources—70 to 80 percent of the stinky cheeses are flown in from broad-line distributors don’t have the capability [for] or want to France, others are sourced from Murray’s Cheese or the award[do],” said Dady. winning Twin Maple Farm in New York ($14 for three, $16 for five). Over at Bohanan’s Bar, chef Heather Nanez also sources most “Now that we’re really getting into a groove at Minnie’s, we’re of her products from Gaucho Gourmet. “Now that (Luciano) is starting to put out accouterment like chutneys, pickled plums, selling to the public, it would be easy for anyone to spend hours toasted peppercorns and honeycombs, which was something I in there,” Nanez said. started 16 or 17 years ago,” Weissman said. The Ciorciaris have helped the chef stock about seven cheeses For Doug Horn, chef-owner at Dough Pizzeria Napoletana, and seven meats ranging from a semi-soft Rogue River Caveman building a board means showing off ingredients, whether it’s a Blue from Oregon and a Humboldt Fog mild goat cheese from humble roasted eggplant or salumi imported from Italy. California to more far-reaching locales such as a favorite Saint– “It’s really important to contrast colors, textures, light and Andre triple cream brie from France and a hard, sheep’s milk heavy items,” said Horn of the perfect board. An antipasto platter roncal from Spain. The line-up, which changes every six months or at Dough will, at any given time, feature variations on roasted so, also features a chef’s selection option where Nanez chooses peppers, briny olives, marinated olives, mortadella, Toscana what to pair on a board based on the guest’s cheese or wine salami, a blue-vein gorgonzola or a red grape mustardo ($11 for a preferences ($16 for two, $22 for three, $26 for four). small board, $20 for a large). The boards aren’t just a hit at the downstairs bar, either: Dough’s latest expansion involved rearranging the bar area to Bohanan’s has been serving elaborate versions at catering gigs. make room for a new hand-cranked, fire engine red slicer, the “We get a chance to talk people through their choices,” Nanez said. chef’s latest toy. She pairs the cuts and cheeses with either imported “It’ll definitely change up how we present our antipasti,” said Horn. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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BRUNCH FOR all Appetites paytonphotography.com
Chicken and Waffles: Chef Jesse Perez is not messing around at Arcade Midtown Kitchen. At brunch, you won’t find wimpy salads or puny yogurt. You will find chicken milanesa fried to perfection, with a fluffy waffle, under a latticework of maple syrup. If you have a second person (or an enormous appetite), order the pork belly ragu benedict as well. It’s the same pork belly ragu from the dinner menu, and it is always satisfyingly tangy and delicious. See and Be Seen: The patio at Feast is the place to spot upscale hipsters in town. From this vantage point, you can see the beating heart of Southtown while you eat eggs in hell, crepes and a metric ton of eggs. Whether you want savory or sweet, carby or eggy, you can get it at Feast … and look hella cool while doing so. Divine Experience: Hallelujah! Brunch! That’s what you’ll be yelling at the Gospel Brunch at Gruene Hall. On the second Sunday of every month, Gruene Hall hosts a morning of gospel music and breakfast eats. Brunch is catered by the Gristmill (where you probably eat after a day of floating) and includes sausage, bacon, eggs, biscuits and gravy and other brunch fare.
Feast’s eggs in hell
The brunch tradition started in England, home of the hardcore drunks. Instead of a heavy afternoon Sunday meal, the British pleaded for a lighter meal for those who’ve done a bit too much imbibing on Saturday nights. And a little Hair of the Dog doesn’t hurt either. We San Antonioians may not have as many brunch options as other cities, but what we do have is spectacular:
Quealy and the Funky Brunch: Chef Quealy Watson sticks to brunch basics at The Monterey, but with interesting twists: some quark here, some feta butter there, and a whole lot of Benton’s bacon (the best bacon in the land). Though there’s never a bad time to go to The Monterey, fall is ideal. It’s cool enough to dine al fresco while downing Americanos and cava mimosas. Though I can and will eat everything on the brunch menu, the brisket burger always wins out. The brioche bun and pimento cheese set the burger apart from every other one in town. –Lauren W. Madrid
Located in the historic Sullivan Carriage House (circa 1896) at the entrance to one of our city’s most beautiful attractions, the San Antonio Botanical Garden, you will find a hidden gem of a restaurant. Anne Marie’s Carriage House Bistro boasts an eclectic menu that is sure to please the inner foodie in you! Available for private parties, rehearsal dinners, receptions, bridal showers, anniversaries, family reunions, corporate meetings and lunches, etc.
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Hours of Operation
Tuesday–Friday, Lunch » 11am to 2 pm • Saturday–Sunday, Brunch » 10 am to 2 pm
555 Funston Place San Antonio, Texas 78209 Reservations: (210) 826 5800
Moveable Feast
confit) a glimpse and a whiff of the steak frites will drive you into a small jealous rage. Order a house red to wash it down for a tres francais experience.
Eating your way through the heart of San Antonio
Dessert: Restaurateur David Snyder opened Bella on the River (106 River Walk) in mid-2011. Tucked away on the river level near Esquire Tavern, Bella has made a name for itself by offering solid culinary gems from Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey. It’s in this quaint and cozy eatery where you’ll enjoy Virginia’s Pistachio Cake, one of the restaurant’s most popular desserts. Sit at the wine bar and indulge in this airy cake topped with pistachio icing, caramel and shaved chocolate.
These days, it’s hard to stick with a steady diet of Tex-Mex as our culinary options keep multiplying. Take a trip across the globe and see what else the Alamo City has to offer. Appetizer: Start the night at Tuk Tuk Tap Room (1702 Broadway), the latest venture by entrepreneurs Jody and Steve Newman and chef David Gilbert. Claim a spot at the noodle bar and split the green papaya salad (or som tam) with tomato, lime, dried shrimp, long beans and peanuts—a crunchy, savory dish that combines the best of Thailand in one simple bowl. Pair it with one of the several stellar beers on tap like the G’Knight Imperial Red IPA from Oskar Blues Brewery and you’ve set the bar high for the rest of the evening. Entree: Change course and head to Minnie’s Tavern & Rye House (328 E Josephine). Formerly the original Liberty Bar and very briefly as Boehler’s Bar and Grill, Minnie’s Tavern is Andrew Weissman’s turn at classic French brasserie fare. The James Beard Award-nominated chef serves up a mouth-watering steak frites with the same amazingly addictive fries found at The Luxury. While you can’t go wrong with the Confit de Canard (duck
Cocktail: End the night at Johnny Hernandez’s The Fruteria (1401 S Flores). At night, the vibrant joint offers savory botanas and probaditas paired with fruity handcrafted cocktails that feature dozens of Mexican tequilas and a smattering of mezcales. Try the El Moreton, a vividly purple drink made with berries, lemon, Mexican piloncillo, Tres Generaciones Reposado tequila and finished with a hint of almond liqueur, or the house margarita that uses house-made sweet and sour, Cointreau and your choice of house infusions.
Add That Final Touch Of Perfection... Gourmet Exrta Virgin Olive Oil & Aged Italian Balsamic Vinegar
North Star Mall • 210.525.1200 • AlamoOliveOil.com Coming soon to Alamo Heights by Bird Bakery
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What’s cooking? The go-to Latin American culture destination for kitchen & tableware, gourmet food, gifts, apparel, jewelry and folk art.
The Current chats with some of
the city's culinary trendsetters Interviews by Lauren Madrid Illustrations by Jeremiah Teutsch
Budin Navidena con Dulce de Leche
303 Pearl Pkwy #104 • (210) 293-3983
The Up-and-Comer Steven McHugh Cured
(set to open at the Pearl by the end of 2013)
e giſt h t e Giv king... of coo
So what’s on the horizon for you? Oh, just trying to open my first restaurant. It’s been a real eye-opening experience with many hats to wear. Looking forward to trading in my hard hat for a chef’s hat (which for me means no hat at all).
liday o h s thi son! sea 1126 SOUTH SAINT MARY’S ST. SAN ANTONIO, TX 78210 (210) 354-0690 | WWW.MISSIONRS.COM Mon–Fri: 8 AM–5 PM | Sat: 9 AM–3 PM 12
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What advice do you have for us home cooks? Don’t be afraid to try new things. Also, go the your local farmers market and buy the ingredients first, then go home and figure out what you’re going to cook. If you go there looking for carrots because that’s what you feel like cooking then you’re going to walk right past the beautiful squash and chances are you might just go home empty-handed when you don’t find the carrots. The table of five that comes in 23 minutes before closing–what are you muttering under your breath? I love that table because it’s a chance for me to show my young cooks and waiters that I truly do this because I get enjoyment out of feeding people. I don’t understand people who get mad, when your life’s chosen path is to make people happy.
Any place, event or culinary thing that has you excited this year? Does a book count? Really looking forward to John Currence’s new book, Pickles, Pigs and Whiskey. That guy can cook and I have been a huge fan of his for years. He also doesn’t give a shit about what anyone thinks of him.
farmer who worked his or her ass off for months just so I could put it on a plate. And if you don’t understand that, you won’t last long in my kitchen.
Anything you were pumped about that no one else noticed in 2013? (Laughs) Did anyone notice the Cronut?
What inspired the name and concept? We just really wanted something that spoke on many different levels. The food, drink and, of course, my struggles with lymphoma a couple of years ago. This restaurant is the result of looking at myself and saying, “you had a scare, what are you going to do about it?” We also want it to mean that as a guest you will leave cured of what was ailing you when you walked in.
What chef leaves you starstruck? Who is your food idol? Don’t know if a chef would leave me starstruck but I did have a conversation with Jacques Pepin a couple of years ago and I remember thinking to myself, “Why in the hell is he talking to me?” I don’t know if a chef would have a food idol, I just respect other people’s craft and their abilities. Does Tim Duncan get excited around Michael Jordan? Perhaps not, but he probably respects him. What drives you crazy in the kitchen? Like “pack your knives and go” crazy? Great question. Lack of respect will make me go off quicker than anything. I grew up with a mother and father [who] taught me to respect everything, your elders, your food, your clothing, your upbringing, you name it. Then I went to the [Culinary Institute of America] and went to class every day scared to death that I would [be sent] home because I didn’t shave or some other crazy rule, but it really made you respect not only your teachers but, more so, yourself. When you overcook a carrot and act like it’s not big deal, that tells me that you have no respect for that
Cured–what are the details? Smart, seasonal and sustainable. Committed to being local.
How much of the food at Cured won’t be cured? It will be a gradual process. I worked with John Besh for 10 years and had the opportunity to make so much charcuterie that it comes naturally to me ... to have this as a centerpiece of our menu. We will explore fermenting and making our own vinegars as well. Like 3 percent? What did you love about New Orleans that San Antonio should be doing? That’s not a fair question, there [are] so many differences and similarities that I wouldn’t change either one. In New Orleans, I rode a ferry to work across the river, now I walk the river to work. I was fortunate to spend 15 years in New Orleans and learn a bit about what makes it such a great food city. San Antonio is on its own pace and I am excited to be a part of the change.
Enjoy our delicous
house AND HAND SHAKEN MargaritaS Made with 100% Agave Tequila. San Antonio favorites include Cilantro Cream Enchiladas AND Sizzling Fajitas!
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TRY our famous ParRillada plate! sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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The Constant Re-inventor Jason Dady
The Food Trucker Rudolfo Martinez
Tre Trattoria, BIN 555, Two Bros. BBQ Market, DUK Truck
Tapa Tapa Truck
So what’s on the horizon for you? As of this morning the Magic 8 Ball said, “Ask again later.” The table of five that comes in 23 minutes before closing–what are you muttering under your breath? Honestly, my muttering would be to my staff to finish strong. We are in the hospitality industry, not the “when-do-I-get-off-so-Ican-go-drink” business. Every guest matters. Period. Any place, event or culinary thing that has you excited this year? Anything you were pumped about that no one else noticed in 2013? Texas as a whole is very exciting. A ton of places in San Antonio, Austin, Houston and Dallas are truly defining Texas as a leader nationally and we more than carry our end here in San Antonio. It’s pretty fucking cool. I noticed that our diners are getting a hell of a lot more interested in what we’re doing. Pop-ups, wine dinners, ethnic cuisine. Everyone is on the same page to keep moving our food culture forward. What chef leaves you absolutely starstruck? Who is your food idol? Starstruck: Ferran Adrià/Michel Bras. Hate the cheeseball answer, but those men changed so much for how all chefs look at food. Anyone that denies that is either a damn fool or a liar. Food Idol: I started watching Rick Bayless as a kid, and that really impacted me. As a professional, Mario Batali is hard to beat. Über-successful, keeps it real and knows his shit. What drives you crazy in the kitchen? Like “pack your knives and go” crazy? People who don’t respect chopping parsley are my top pet peeve. Sloppy and careless plating. Not cooking the last dish of the night with the same respect as the first. 14
Flavor 2013-2014 /// sacurrent.com
So what’s on the horizon for you? On the horizon, I’ve got a restaurant opening up in the next six months but I’m still scouting locations. Tapa Tapa is still rocking out at 516 Brooklyn, and the Texas Cooks Co-op, the supper club I founded, is getting more recognition. What advice do you have for us home cooks? My advice to home cooks is to take your time and have passion in what you do. Even a PB&J sandwich tastes good made with love. What chef leaves you starstruck? Who is your food idol? Alex Stupak has got to be the chef I am most enamored with right now. I enjoy the fact that he is bringing a progressive perspective and non-Mexican viewpoint to interior Mexican cuisine. On a local level, I think Jeff Wiley [formerly of Beat Street Bistro] is the dark horse chef of the year. He is a respected mentor and culinarian, and truly bridges the gap between the old guard and new. Should all chefs work in a food truck at some point? Why? Working in a food truck has taught me how to be clean, resourceful and efficient. While working in a food truck shouldn’t be a prerequisite for many chefs, it does teach you how to be a better service provider and to be more independent. You’re closed for the night. Where do you head for a meal? When I have a free night off, I like to support local momand-pop places like Sichuan Cuisine, Mr. & Mrs. G’s, or my neighborhood Jalisco. What’s your food shame? What do you secretly eat under the cover of night? One of my guiltiest food pleasures is Green’s twinkies–while vegan, they still pack a caloric punch. I could eat 10. Damn, they’re good.
The “Old” Guard Andrew Weissman
The Explorer Javier Flores
The Sandbar, Il Sogno, Minnie’s Tavern, The Luxury
Barraca
So what’s on the horizon? I am currently working on the wine bar upstairs at Il Sogno, I am also about to implement a full liquor license at Minnie’s Tavern—we should have it sometime around Thanksgiving. I am also in discussions with a major corporation to do some pretty cool stuff with them but it is under wraps until I sign a contract which could take place as early as next week. The table of five that comes in 23 minutes before closing—what are you muttering under your breath? In my old age I have come to the realization that it is not about me; this is about the client and their satisfaction. We now have a policy in place that we try to open 10 minutes prior to stated hours and close 15 minutes later. I think small gestures like this go a long way. What drives you crazy in the kitchen? Cell phone use, i.e. checking your phone while cooking, drives me nuts as does someone who tends not to show up in pressed and cleaned jackets and pants. I send cooks home regularly for not treating this as a profession, but rather a job. I also detest wastefulness and am constantly reminding cooks how important it is to attempt total utilization of product. I think the lunch at Sandbar is something no one hypes a lot, but is amazing. What else are you cooking that you think is underrated? What do you think is awesome that no one is taking advantage of in your restaurants? I tend to agree with you about the Sandbar being underrated–the quality of product, the six, seven breads made daily, the fish that we receive and prepare is unmatched anywhere else in town. I also think the pizza at Il Sogno is one of the best in town and also the best value (at 6 p.m. our Margherita is $6). Breakfast at Il Sogno still remains a secret as well as the $3 taps at Minnie’s during the week. A lot of this is due to the fact that we don’t advertise or have a PR firm. We tend to just hope people will show up—and so far they have.
So what’s on the horizon? Once Barraca gets stable enough, I’ll be bringing back Cheeks & Chops Food Truck and I’m excited to work on the next project. Maybe Mexican or maybe Asian? Maybe I’ll take some time off before that gets started. What advice do you have for us home cooks? If you crave it, do it. There is no right or wrong way of cooking. There is nothing to be afraid, you may get discouraged, so keep it simple and have fun with it. Just don’t cut yourself or get burnt. If you are a hazardous cook, keep children away from the kitchen. Now, if the results are not what you expect, go out, and have a family date. The table of five that comes in 23 minutes before closing– what are you muttering under your breath? FANTASTIC! Honestly, I’m glad they came in, but I assure you that the cooks might be having … tantrums—some, not all. What chef leaves you starstruck? Who is your food idol? Starstruck: I have several; Morimoto, David Chang, Batali and Michael Symon. Idol: Gotta go with Anthony Bourdain. I’ve found most people don’t really understand what tapas are. How do you describe tapas? It is an appetizer dish that can be hot or cold. It is a shareable portion or for a single serving. In a nutshell, it is bar food, with quality ingredients. How many people a week come in expecting topless instead of tapas? (Laughs) I don’t think I have an accent, but when I get asked, they sometimes understand ‘topless.’ It cracks me up. I just respond with, “I wish.” Check out these chefs’ favorite recipes online at sacurrent.com sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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THE IT DESSERT Why is panna cotta so hot right now? Ana Aguirre
Barbaro’s version with rose water and amaretto
If you’ve been spying more panna cotta offerings than usual, you’re not alone. The Italian dessert has turned into a fixture of sorts for area restaurants. Gabriel Ibarra, executive chef at Cappy’s on Broadway, explained why the classic treat is making inroads into the hearts and stomachs of eaters. “Panna cotta’s an ‘it’ dessert because ‘it’ [i]s so easy to make,” Ibarra said. Cappy’s makes batches of panna cotta daily, the only drawback is finding a place to store the resulting 50 individual servings in glass containers. It’s also easy to alter. As chef put it, there are several ways to accommodate special diets while serving panna cotta. Heavy cream, milk, sugar and gelatin can all be replaced and tweaked to help everyone enjoy the creamy dessert (including vegans!) by subbing in tapioca starch and/or using soy or almond milk. The traditional process takes about three hours including cooling time. A steady and precise hand is needed when adding the gelatin, as too much might turn the panna cotta into a rubber ball and too little will result in a soupy mess. At press time, the most current iteration at Cappy’s was a salted caramel panna cotta made with heavy cream, Maldive sea salt and caramel cooked until slightly bitter, topped with popcorn popped in bacon fat. Cue drooling. “It literally tastes like a creamy Cracker Jack,” Ibarra said. “It takes you back to your childhood, which is what a lot of what food is.” Panna cottas can also be found at The Monterey, which cranks out helter-skelter treats like buttermilk PC with Ovaltine ganache, plums, dried currants, butter crumb and shisho or a green tea version with caramelized milk crumble, dried strawberries, Texas peaches and mint. For the fall menu, Barbaro concocted one with rose water and amaretto, topped with toasted almonds. Stella Public House keeps a salted caramel panna cotta finished with vanilla almond biscotti and a brulee banana on its menu to avoid hordes of upset diners. “You can go any direction with it because it doesn’t have to be really sweet, it doesn’t have to be really creamy,” Ibarra said of the dessert of the moment. It just has to be delicious.
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OUR SECRET INGREDIENT... 100% ALL NATURAL SAVORY BEEF 11309 BANDERA ROAD
SUITE 111, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78250 MON-SAT 11AM - 11PM SUN 11AM - 10PM PHONE: (210) 521-249
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paytonphotography.com
AMERICAN The Luxury 103 E Jones, (210) 354-2274 Good things come to those who wait, and wait, and wait. After being teased for almost two years, San Antonians finally got a taste of The Luxury last March. The tongue-in-cheek spot features Andrew Weissman’s quality cookery at prices even a student could love. The menu options are well suited for that demographic and for The Luxury’s casual, shipping-container cool outdoor location on the river near the San Antonio Museum of Art. Sandwiches rotate frequently, but on our most recent visit we chowed down on a fresh veggie bánh mì loaded with cilantro, carrots, daikon radish and cucumber atop spicy slabs of tofu. Other intriguing new options include a meat lover’s dream in the
The Milanesa with breaded pork, Swiss, bacon, ham and a fried egg
Chivito al Pan, with steak, ham AND bacon, plus The Luxury’s ace in the hole ingredient, the fried egg (seriously, it’s on half the sandwiches on offer and can be ordered atop fries or plantain side dishes). Not to be boring, but our go-to at The Lux is the excellent chicken curry salad, which, at six bucks, is a steal of a deal as the generous serving comes loaded with perfectly tender spiced chicken, carrots, almonds and raisins atop subtly spicy arugula. Be careful with the hearty portions, you’ll want to save room for dessert. The first bite of the chocolate salted caramel pudding is like spotting a shooting star through a double rainbow on your birthday. Even if you’re not dining al fresco, you can still have a perfectly lovely time drinking quality craft brews at many price points as well as knocking back a glass of wine or four while obliterating your competition on the site’s bocce ball courts. See? All good things, worth the wait. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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75 TAPS
FRIENDLY EATS TILL
MIDNIGHT
OF
CRAFT BREW
7 DAYS A WEEK
OVER 400 BOTTLE &
CAN CHOICES
KID & DOGGIE
FRIENDLY ICE HOUSE 943 South Alamo • 210.224.BEER (2337) New FRIENDLY Chef • New FRIENDLY Eats
MON-FRI 3P-12A • SAT-SUN 11A-12A Bacon Wrapped Bratwurst • The Blind Pig • Smoked Trout Cakes Fish Tacos • French Bread Pizza •Pork Tacos Veggie Buger • Lamb Meatball Grinder •and more! WHAT’S ON TAP NOW: THEFRIENDLYSPOT.COM/ON-TAP
What’
AMERICAN Beat Street Coffe Co. & Bistro Part coffee shop, part lunch spot, part intimate evening bistro, Beat Street now has chef John Carpenter at the helm of the kitchen. The menu changes often but expect well-executed dishes and bombshell flavors during any visit, morning, noon or night. 2512 N Main, (210) 320-2099
Bliss Texas Monthly’s Pat Sharpe named Bliss in her “Where to Eat Now” round-up for 2012 and we have to agree that chef Mark Bliss’ leave from San Antonio restored his love of cooking. The amount of love and attention poured into each element is evident whether you’re indulging in the charcuterie boards filled with thinly sliced prosciutto, cheese and usual accouterments, or taking in several courses of chef’s everchanging contemporary American cuisine. 926 S Presa, (210) 2252547, foodisbliss.com
Blue Star Brewing Company This bistro pub offers classic and nouvelle cuisine spins on Southern favorites. The Blue Star Grass Fed Burger with ground bacon and the scallop salad are top faves, but look for ever-changing specials and charcuterie offerings. 1414 S Alamo, Ste 105, (210) 212-5506, bluestarbrewing.com
Big Easy Café This cheery café skips the cartoon-feel most Creole joints take on and instead whips up juicy, flavorful favorites. These portions aren’t for the dieting sort. Dive into the smothered pork chop, take down one of
the massive po’boys or stick with the jamming jambalaya. Don’t forget dessert: a butter pecan rum sauce made by grandma herself. 4822 Walzem, (210) 653-5688, bigeasycafesa.com
Chatman’s Chicken A Southside gem, Chatman’s menu is concise–You’re coming here for the chicken. Available in two flavors, lemon-pepper and spicy, the chicken is light, crispy and generous. You’re going to love the crunch. Pair it with a basket of chicken livers, sweet corn fritters (dip them in the cream gravy, I dare ya) and load up on classic sides such as the mild mac ‘n’ cheese or the sweet greens. 1747 S WW White, (210) 359-0245
Donnie’s Italian Beef Dying for a deep-dish pizza? Donnie’s got you covered. The joint brings Chicago’s meaty goodness to San Antonio via Vienna beef and a large hot dog selection. Leave room for dessert: Donnie’s carries homemade cannoli and tiramisu. 4939 NW Loop 410, (210) 562-3661, donniesbeef.com
Drew’s American Grill The name says it all. Drew’s has an eclectic menu with house-made soups, New York-style pizza, deli-style sandwiches (try the Reuben) and then some. Hospitable hosts and knowledgeable servers make you feel right at home while offering suggestions on what to sink your teeth into. Don’t miss out on brunch where you’ll find smoked salmon platters and a mean crab cake benedict. 18740 Stone Oak Pkwy, (210) 483-7600, drewsamericangrill.com
Your Friendly Neighborhood bar celebratiNg
25
years ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION November 15th & 16th
hat’s on Tap Now: TheFriendlySpot.com/On-Tap/
210-212-5506 • 1-866-813-5506
2417 N. St. Mary’s 210-733-9573 sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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AMERICAN EZ’s Brick Oven & Grill Since 1989, people have come for the beautifully grilled burgers, woodfired brick oven pizzas, award-winning salads and succulent rosemary chicken. Now they come back again for the health of it: no trans fats, msg, modifiers, genetically modified foods, or any other unhealthy junk. And still damn tasty, too. Multiple locations, ezsresaurants.com
Flagstop Café Most of the menu is made up of fried chicken, burgers, sandwiches and breakfast tacos. The chicken is generous, flaky and moist. Come hungry: the daily chicken-fried steak special with two fried chicken pieces, two vegetables and a medium drink is under $10. 28425 IH-10 W, Boerne, (830) 981-4413, flagstop.com
The Friendly Spot This family- and dog-friendly ice house boasts a playground and a worldly selection of over 400 bottled craft beers and 76 on tap (perfect for crafting salty micheladas). Chef Scott Boone has added an expert touch to the menu, delivering fresh and affordable eats such as the earthy IPA hummus and flavor bomb fish tacos with a zesty pineapple pico de gallo. 943 S Alamo, (210) 224-2337, thefriendlyspot.com
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Any trip to Gruene warrants a visit to the Gristmill. Opened in 1977, the cotton-gin-turned-restaurant overlooks the Guadalupe River and dishes up favorites such as the onion rings, chicken-fried steaks, big ol’ burgers, fried shrimp and ribs for the hungrier set. Check out the new stage in the beer garden. 1287 Gruene, New Braunfels, (830) 6250684, gristmillrestaurant.com
Halcyon There are several ways to fuel up at Halcyon: Grab a freshly pressed panino or the favorite Southtown burrito for lunch, or take advantage of the locally roasted beans and excellent espresso. There’s also the ever-growing list of signature craft cocktails such as the Long Island Iced Coffee and the Chocolate Espresso Martini, which go great with the tableside s’mores. Jazz things up and let John IV top off your latte with free latte art. 1414 S Alamo Ste. 101, (210) 277-7045, halcyonsouthtown.com
Josephine Street Café Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Pearl, this eatery opened in 1979 and has served consistently great food since. Try the chicken fried steak, fried shrimp, steaks or pork chops before any Spurs game–Jo Street offers shuttle services for home games to patrons who dine in or order to-go. 400 E Josephine, (210) 224-6169, josephinestcafe.com
or try the hangover cure, Pan Borracho available at brunch, a cheesy, prosciutto-filled creation that hits the spot. 340 E Basse, Ste 101, (210) 444-9547, maxswinedive.com
The Monterey Trust this Southtown gem to continually push the envelope with its everchanging seasonal menu that turns comfort food into an experience. Spend an evening on the patio, noshing on off-the-wall off-menu items and leave room for dessert. 1127 S St Mary’s, (210) 745-2581, themontereysa.com
Mozie’s Bar & Grill Don’t settle for crap bar food. Mozie’s upcale fare feature sliders, fish tacos, a grown-up grilled cheese and panko-crusted Parmesan chicken. Cozy up to the full-bar and take in a game from any of the eight giant flat screens available. 1601A Hunter Road, New Braunfels, (830) 515-1281, moziesbaramdgrill.com
Oro Since joining The Emily Morgan Hotel in 2010, chef Chris Cook has made waves for the hotel eatery by adding solid menu items such as a locally-sourced Bluebonnet Farms young lettuce salad with pecans, goat cheese and white balsamic and a buttery griddled brioche “grilled cheese” with aged cheddar and goat cheese and golden tomato soup. The Emily Morgan Hotel, 705 E Houston, (210) 244-0146, emilymorganhotel.com
Q at the Hyatt Sure, you could just skip right to the pasta bar, but you’d miss out on the varied menu that features starters, salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers and steaks for the hungrier set. Try the house-smoked turkey and avocado club, the sizeable Q Burger or get messy with the in-your-face Cantonese chicken wings. 123 Losoya, (210) 222-1234, hyatt.com/gallery/qriverwalk
Stella Public House ► Chef Roland Aguirre is bringing Napoletana-style pizza to Blue Star Brewery–and then some. Start the night with lamb meatballs, wild mushroom mac ‘n’ cheese or the seasonal Brussels sprouts before diving into the Forno Bravo Modena oven-fired pies. Cheese lover? Order the fragrant Taleggio pizza or the loaded Quattro pizza with gorgonzola, Parmesan, ricotta and hand-pulled mozzarella. Did we mention the pizzas are expertly paired with a well-curated selection of craft beers available on tap and in bottles? Visit the staff for lunch or take a late lunch and stay for the daily happy hour available from 3 to 6 p.m. 1414 S Alamo, Ste 103, (210) 277-7047, stellapublichouse.com
Stone Werks Big Rock Grille Ma Harper’s N’awlins Creole Kitchen Louisiana native Ma Harper’s home-style creole cooking—jambalaya, red beans and rice and gumbo—tends to be mild but hearty. 1816 N New Braunfels, (210) 226-2200
The Malt House On a budget and in the mood for some history? Try the Malt House. A Westside institution since 1949, the eyesore-eatery serves up TexMex and American classics at ridiculously low prices. 115 S Zarzamora, (210) 433-8441, themalthouse.cc
Max’s Wine Dive Max’s Wine Dive is the last word in bacchanalia ... with style. Pair the flavorful and award-winning fried chicken with some nice bubbly, 22
Flavor 2013-2014 /// sacurrent.com
Open for lunch, dinner and late-night eats at Lincoln Heights, The Vineyard and The Rim, Stone Werks has a big menu with something for everyone. Come real hungry, plan on sharing portions (pulled pork sliders, salmon rolls and ahi tuna burgers are huge), and you’ll still likely take a doggie-box home. Multiple locations, stonewerks.com
Sustenio Sustenio is actually an oasis of restraint in the midst of a Disneyesque Tuscan fantasy. Chef Stephan Pyles has set the Southwestern direction, but with executive chef Mike Spalla at the helm of the kitchen, the sprawling eatery is finding its way into the heart of diners with stellar ceviches, and main courses like the poblano relleno with quinoa picadillo, avocado relish and Marcona almond crema. 17103 La Cantera Pkwy, (210) 598-2950, eilanhotel.com
AMERICAN
Beat S
treet
Bistro coffee co.
American cuisine
coffee •pastries•lunch•dinner craft beer and wine Blanco y Verde pizza at Stella Public House
OPEN: TUESDAY - SATURDAY 7AM - 12AM 2512 N. MAIN AVE SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212 • 210-320-2099 Check us out at BEATSTREETCOFFEE.COM for daily food and drink specials
TEXAS STYLE BURGERS. 1423 MCCULLOUGH AVE. | 210.226.7556 sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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AMERICAN Burgers & dogs Armadillos The groovy spirit of Little Hipp’s lives on at Armadillos. Shy-Poke Eggs (nachos that resemble fried eggs thanks to strategically-melted cheeses atop jalapeños), giant burgers, tater tots and retro ambience give the place only-in-Texas appeal while paying homage to a storied hangout where the food was anything but little. 1423 McCullough, (210) 2267556, armadillosburgers.com
Big Bob’s Burgers After relocating from Harry Wurzbach to Hildebrand in 2012, Bob Riddle has expanded his burger empire to downtown where he continues to dish up badass, flame-grilled burgers like the caloric half-ground bacon, half-ground chunk 50/50 burger, hand-cut fries and ginormous beer-battered onion rings. Multiple locations, bigbobsburgers.com
Burger Boy Nostalgia tastes pretty damn good at Burger Boy. Get the Bates Special, a home-cooked burger, crinkle-cut fries and a drink for under $6 and enjoy it at the bar and take that stool for a spin or two. 2323 N St. Mary’s, (210) 735-1955
BurgerFi BurgerFi picks up where the other “better burger” franchises leave off. They focus on all-natural, grass-fed beef because it tastes better, and
that’s what ! d i a s he Tues-Thurs: 5pm-11pm •Fri-Sat: 5pm-12am • Sun: 10am-2pm 1127 S. St. Mary’s SATX 78210 • For reservations: 210.745.2581 or email to info@themontereysa.com 24
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it’s better for you with no chemicals and no additives. BurgerFi has built a menu with specialty items like Kobe beef hot dogs, gourmet toppings, delectable desserts, craft beer & wine and an overall focus on a healthier menu selection. Multiple locations, burgerfi.com
Chris Madrid’s The late Chris Madrid left his adored burger place in good hands. The family-owned restaurant, which first opened in the 1970s, suffered the loss of its namesake in 2012 but the quality of the burgers has remained constant. They make some of the best in town, and are a perennial favorite for Best Burger in all polls. Want a big one? Order the Macho. 1900 Blanco, (210) 735-3552, chrismadrids.com
Fattboy Burgers & Dogs Fattboy makes up for lack of visual charm with “badd-ass” burgers and hot rings. Be sure to order the “fatt” size and to take your toppings All The Way. With locations off Vance Jackson and Huebner, there are plenty of chances to try one of these seriously delicious items. Multiple locations, fattboyburgers.com
Five Guys Burgers and Fries A smattering of locations in San Antonio all offer the same straightforward menu: a hamburger, either plain or with cheese, bacon, or both cheese and bacon, in both regular and “little” sizes. There’s two sizes of fries in Five Guys or Cajun style. Oh, you have a choice of many, many free toppings, including grilled onions and mushrooms. Multiple locations, fiveguys.com
paytonphotography.com
asIAn Kimura 152 E Pecan, (210) 444-0702, kimurasa.com When Michael Sohocki opened the doors to Kimura, his second venture as an owner, the chef wasn’t really aware of just how ready for ramen San Antonio was. Located just yards from his first baby, Restaurant Gwendolyn, Kimura stands in the same spot as the original Sandbar and the late Cakery Bakery. After months of renovating, sourcing ingredients and recipe creation, Kimura is now a cozy eatery with dark varnished wood, an open ramen bar and a stylish, yet traditional, aesthetic The shop opened its doors in late July to a frenzy of ramenhungry foodies and was forced to close a few days later to keep their head above water. Sohocki and co. decided to 26
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A bowl of shoyu ramen with braised pork
re-tool the menu, ditching house-made noodles and sourcing them instead. Kimura bathes the noodles in ginormous bowls of either a hearty miso or an intriguing chicken and shoyu broth. The shoyu (with a decadent earthiness courtesy of marinated shitakes) comes with braised pork slices, and both are served with a softboiled egg, nori, shitakes and bean sprouts. A popular prelude to the ramen is the just-so-charred, flavorful gyoza dumplings, the grilled octopus or the cucumber sunomono salad. The broiled sweet and tangy unagi don serves as a good non-noodle entree. Settle in at the bar and close out the evening with a hand-crafted cocktail, such as the Last Word with gin, Chartreuse and maraschino; Kimura stays open until midnight on weekends with a small but mighty menu. You don’t have to be a ramen master to figure that the heart of Kimura is evident in its rich, noodle-centric main dish that evolves daily. Slurp away.
ASIAN Chinese Kim Wah Chinese BBQ You must order ahead, but the duck is divine, wrapped in a puffy, dimsum-like bun. As for the rest of dinner—order from the serious Chinese menu and the chalkboard where you’ll find such exotic treats as braised intestine. Yum. 7080 Bandera, (210) 520-2200, kimwah.com
Sichuan Cuisine Sichuan Cuisine revives interest in the fortunes of Chinese cooking, currently in the shadow of the more-exotic Vietnamese and Thai. Try the challenging sliced pig’s ear or duck tongues with jalapeño before retreating to the likes of the (also very good) stir-fried lamb with cumin. 2347 NW Military Hwy, (210) 525-8118, sichuansa.com
at least 50 items on the bilingual menu and traditional soju, a rice-based distilled liquor, on offer. We’re a fan of the pa jeon, green onion pancakes stuffed with seafood and anything with octopus, but there’s also plenty of kimchi and Korean barbecue. 2154 Austin Hwy, (210) 650-3845, arirangkoreanrestaurant.net
Gaaboseh Korean Café You won’t go to Gaaboseh for the Home Depot décor, but you will recall the $7.99 lunch box specials. The impressive bento-box houses pan-chan-like servings (pickled, shredded daikon and mung bean sprouts), iceberg-based salad with broccoli and a sesame dressing, vegetable maki, and a pair of fried mandu. 6019 Rittiman Plaza, (210) 829-0299
Go Hyang Jib
Tang Street This outpost serves unique northeastern Chinese fare, executed simply but exceptionally. Adventurous diners should look out for sauerkraut braised pork intestine and a cucumber needle mushroom dish. Others may find steamed pork buns, stewed lamb or traditional noodle dishes more their speed. 16111 San Pedro, (210) 490-1788, tangst.com
Korean Arirang Korean Restaurant Get ready to try some Korean snacks, or pan chan, at this spot—there’s
Top-notch Korean BBQ and sushi. Try the chop chae platter, with delicate noodles and a squadron of other ingredients from chiles to slivered chicken breast. 4400 Rittiman, (210) 822-8846
Ilsong Garden This family-owned café introduced many San Antonians to Korean cuisine, and has been rewarded with the top spot in the Best Korean category of our annual Best of San Antonio readers poll for many years. Homemade kimchi and the superior bulgogi continue to entice diners, as does the elegant atmosphere and friendly service. 6905 Blanco, (210) 366-4508, ilsonggarden.com
WITH SUPERB THAI CUISINE, SUSHI & SAKE BAR, & DELICIOUS BUBBLE DRINKS.
1146 AUSTIN HWY • 210.829.7345 • TONGSTHAI.COM sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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ASIAN Tiger Pop Korean Roll N Go
Yaya’s Thai Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Don’t let the name fool you in this squeaky-clean, fusion aspirant. Rather than rolls (or burritos or tacos), you’ll have better luck with the bowls. We particularly favor the GochuGogi, with spicy seasoned pork sprinkled with sesame seeds. The tempura chicken breast is a startling textural experience. 3830 N Loop 1604, (210) 481-9131
This Olmos Park addition to SA’s Thai pantheon stands out by virtue of its panang curry with New York strip, the veggie-packed pad woon sen and fresh, well-seasoned apps like the lemongrass-packed fish cakes and the crisp, carefully fried spring rolls. Don’t miss out on the coconut bubble teas. Multiple locations, yayasthai.com
Thai
Vietnamese
Bangkok 54
4 Star Vietnamese and Chinese
This San Antonio sibling of a Washington, D.C., establishment serves unusual and pleasing Thai variations. Try the soft-shell crab with basil, and very capable favorites like yum talay and Massaman curry. 2515 Nacogdoches, (210) 822-5454, bangkok54restaurant.com
Known for their large portion sizes, 4 Star’s kitchen, led by Tuan Va, serves up heaping helpings of fragrant pho and lemon chicken. The restaurant isn’t afraid to cross borders, as evidenced by Chinese and Thai dishes—particularly the popular pad Thai option. Va hopes to expand selections even further with teriyaki salmon and the Vietnamese staple sandwich bánh mì. Before venturing out, decide whether booze is a priority, 4 Star is BYOB, with a small fee. 3505 Wurzbach, (210) 523-9988
Mon Thai Bistro and Sushi Mon Thai offers sushi and Thai cuisine, including spicy drunken noodles and signature dishes like Devil’s Chicken and Angel Shrimp (get it?), but don’t overlook the sushi. Polish it off with fried bananas or tempura ice cream. 4901 Broadway, (210) 822-3253, monsthai.com
Sawasdee Thai Cuisine Sawasdee Thai’s attention to detail in their sauces makes it a vegetarian heaven. The Castle Hills spot cranks out a stellar panang. 6407 Blanco, (210) 979-9110, sawasdeesa.com
French Sandwiches Tucked away in the same shopping center that houses India Palace is French Sandwiches with its hearty, leafy French Vietnamese sandwiches and excellent soups and salads. Don’t miss the grilled pork sandwich or the French onion soup. 8448 Fredericksburg, (210) 692-7019
Pho Cong Ly Siam Cuisine The best Thai Schertz has to offer (it may be the best Thai in San Antonio as well). It’s hard to go wrong with typical dishes such as green papaya salad, but don’t hesitate to order a pork stir fry with loads of lemongrass, an unusually delicate fried rice with “fermented” sausage or a curry soup with chicken, Middle Eastern spices, tamarind and coconut milk. 6032 FM 3009 (Schertz), (210) 651-6015
Thai Dee The winner of Best Thai in our 2013 Best of San Antonio readers poll serves up what we’ve described as “ridiculously good, huge dishes at rock-bottom prices.” While the plain Jane exterior might not scream exotic Asian fare, the delectable red curries leave no doubt that Thai Dee’s the real deal. Check the specials for truly authentic dishes and remember to BYOB. 5307 Blanco, (210) 342-3622, thaideesa.com
Thai Chili Curries, fish and noodle dishes in over 30 authentic varieties make this Thai spot the ultimate in healthy pan-Asian cooking. Try the Phad Prik Khing, or Tod Mun Pla. Multiple locations, thaichili.net
Pho Kim Long Get the giggles out of the way before you head to Pho Kim Long. The joint, which replaced Laurent’s Modern Cuisine this summer, carries pho favorites, vermicelli bun and Vietnamese sandwiches on soft bollilos. The lunch game is on-pointe. 4230 McCullough, (210) 829-8021
Pho Sure The SAC-area fave combines a variety of Asian cultures. Sushi, in addition to the ever-popular pho, is fantastic, as are the Thai and Vietnamese noodle dishes and savory entrees and sweet bubble tea. Convenient for students and downtown residents, Pho Sure also offers delivery. 741 W Ashby, (210) 733-8473, pho-sure.com
Saigon Express
A Medical Center favorite, Thai Pikul scores with the homemade curries and Koanom Jeeb dumplings. The spice-heat runs 1-5; go with 4 unless you plan to add condiments, such as chile-laced fish sauce. 5136 Fredericksburg, (210) 524-9440
Launched into popularity as an affordable option favored by some of SA’s best chefs on their off hours, frill-free Saigon Express continues to please customers by living up to its name: authentic Vietnamese fare produced amazingly fast. The large menu offers expected dishes like spring and summer rolls, various lunch and dinner specials served atop rice, plus pho and banh mi, but we particularly favor the lemongrass TVP vermicelli bowls. 1626 McCullough, (210) 277-1899
Tong’s Thai Restaurant
Viva Pho Vietnamese Cuisine and Teabo Lounge
Eclectic, upscale tiki atmosphere. Tong’s Thai offers several vegetarian dishes, a critically acclaimed lemon-grass curry, a large beer and wine selection, and a funky bubble tea room. 1146 Austin Hwy, (210) 8297345, tongsthai.com
Viva’s pho is good, but the bun (aka vermicelli noodle) dishes are better. We adore the charbroiled pork option, washed down with one of many unusual milk or fruit teas. The cheery, modern décor, and attentive staff make this a fun date spot. 2114 NW Military, (210) 525-8388
Thai Pikul Restaurant
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Adventurers who dare rub lips with a little “soft tendon” in their bath of noodle soup (found under “fortifying combos” on the menu) will be rewarded with a tongue tingle worth remembering. But there are also “safe” dishes to choose from, so there’s something for every palate. 300 W Bitters, (210) 499-5572
Flavor 2013-2014 /// sacurrent.com
& e s e m a n t e i V e n i s i u C e s e n Chi
r o n I Dine ! t u O y r r a C We want to thank SA Current Readers for voting us
BEST THAI FOOD RESTAURANT
two years in a row!
We are proud to be one of the BEST and offer the BEST quality Thai Food and BEST service.
Hours:
Monday-Saturday • 11am-9 pm Delivery from 5-9pm Closed Sundays
21 and Up BYOB 3505 Wurzbach #102 • (210) 523-9988
No Corkage fee
5307 Blanco Rd • (210) 342-3622 • thaideesa.com
Custom Smoked Turkeys for the Holidays
A Barbecue Tradition since 1950
1150 Austin Hwy. •San Antonio, Texas 78209 (210) 828-2829 • www.bunnbarrel.com
Ana Aguirre
BBQ The Granary 602 Avenue A, (210) 228-0124, thegranarysa.com
Coriander and cumin-rubbed pork belly with salsa negra and jicama
Beer and barbecue go hand-inhand. Brothers Alex and Tim Rattray are making that happen day in and day out with a major twist. Housed in the former home of Ernst Mueller, Chief Cooper at the Pearl Brewery in the 1800s, the house has been remodeled to hold two intimate dining rooms and the teensiest of microbreweries where Alex brews four honest beers, along with seasonal sodas and root beer. Come lunchtime, the brothers serve up half-pours of the house-made beer paired with tenderly smoked ribs, handmade sausage and flavorful brisket ordered at the counter. All meats are humanely raised and hormone- and antibiotic-free. But dinnertime is where older brother Tim really gets a chance to play. The 30-year-old and his staff are cranking out modernist barbecue, which has already garnered the restaurant attention from Esquire magazine and the Wall Street Journal. Appetizers include the light and airy grit fritters with red eye mayonnaise and county ham “salt.” The Texas Toast will have you swooning over barbecue butter, a rich and salty spread made using drippings from the smokers. You can’t go wrong with a cheese board, either (see pp. TK). Plates, found under the Savor section of the menu, include a coriander/cumin rubbed pork belly with salsa negra, jicama, cilantro and masa spoon bread, or get a pipin’ hot bowl of brisket ramen with smoked shoyu broth, brown ale noodles (made with house beer) onsen egg, ’cue shallots and collard greens. Chef uses smoke to create flavors and textures for even the simplest of vegetables. We won’t go into dessert, all made in-house, but the buttermilk chess pie, paired with their darkest beer, can be the perfect ending for a visit to this brew and ’cue joint. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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TRUE TEXAS BBQ Open 7 Days a Week
Award-Winning Sauces
Pit Smoked Meats
Homemade Sides & Desserts Huge Play Yard and Sandbox • Bocce Ball Live Music Weekends
Dine-In • To Go • Delivery Catering • Private Parties
(210) 496 0222
12656 West Avenue •“Tucked In The Back” SAN ANTONIO, TX 78216 TWOBROSBBQMARKET.COM
BARBECUE Augie’s Barbed Wire Smokehouse There are no shortcuts to great barbecue. Slow, low cooking in an iron pit has produced the authentic taste of Texas style at Augie’s Barbed Wire Smokehouse since 2009. Enjoy the brisket, sausage, and, yes, foot-long hot dogs outside at the excellent beer garden and tree house. 3709 N St Marys, (210) 735-0088, augiesbs.com
The Barbecue Station Ranching and motoring memorabilia are the backdrop for moist, slightly fatty and smoky brisket, and a bottomless bucket of savory pinto beans. The overwhelming scent of smoked ribs and chicken make for a hard choice at the counter. Even the pecan pie, mass-produced though it may be, contains a generous layer of nuts. 1610 NE Loop 410, (210) 824-9191, barbecuestation.com
Blanco BBQ This spacious spot on the North Side has an extensive menu to match. Culinary Institute of America-trained chef Arthur Mayo smokes a mean bird, be it chicken or turkey, and a baked potato filled with sweet, vinegary pulled pork was a pleasant surprise. Any of those options succeed over the more standard brisket and ribs. 13259 Blanco, (210) 251-2602, blancobbbq.com
Bun ’N’ Barrel For ambience and taste, this is the closest to a real Texas barbecue experience in San Antonio. The pork ribs are really tasty, the brisket a solid B+ and the poppy-seed rolls with the sliced barbecue sandwich
rock. 1150 Austin Hwy, (210) 828-2829, bunnbarrel.com
The County Line County Line has been serving award-winning barbeque since 1975. With several locations in San Antonio including the River Walk, they still proffer some of the best Texas Q around. Specialty of the house, The Cadillac, all you can eat beef ribs, brisket, pork ribs, sausage, chicken, sides and ice cream for only $26.99. Multiple locations. countyline.com.
Crossroads Bar B Q Family owned and operated, this charming barbecue joint offers slow smoked meats basted with secret house rubs and unique spices. Addictive sides include creamed corn and famous paper-thin house chips, fried with their secret house seasoning. 110 N Crossroads, (210) 732-7300, crossroadsbbqsa.com
Ed’s Smok-N-Q Ed’s offers bountiful barbecue, beautifully and lightly smoked, but often in need of the extra flavor the sweet-tart sauce can bring. Don’t miss the coarse and peppery sausage with its inherently lusty taste. Sides such as the vinegary coleslaw, creamy macaroni salad and ranch beans transcend the knee-jerk norm. 902 S W.W. White, (210) 359-1511
Finley’s Chick-N-Rib More than just a barbecue joint, Finley’s specializes in brisket,
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BEER SPECIALS Shiner Bock Dos XX Sam Adams Bud Light and More 210.558.7427 5890 De Zavala finleyschicknrib.com (Across from Post Office)
BARBECUE sausage and then some. Stop by on Fridays for catfish po’boys and pick up a slice of buttermilk pie while you’re at it. 5890 De Zavala, (210) 558-7427, finleyschicknrib.com
Grady’s Bar-B-Q A San Antonio staple, Grady’s has grown quietly to encompass several locations around town off Fredericksburg, Bandera, San Pedro, Nakoma and Wetmore. The barbecue isn’t mind-blowing, but it’ll get the job done if you’re on the run. Multiple locations, gradysbbq.com
Hofbraü Guests will quickly realize a feeling of comfort brought about by taking a historic San Antonio landmark–the former Alamo Cement laboratory–and letting it serve as a backdrop for a drinking and dining establishment that resembles a Texas ranch house. A visit is never complete without the signature Dos-a-Rita or two. Luckily there’s a new location at the Rim as well. Multiple locations, quarryhofbrau.com, hofbraurim.com
4-7 happy hour, buckets of beer & wine. Live music weekly. Tuesday Karaoke.
d e e n t n o D u o Y
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Jones Sausage & BBQ House We give this rustic little Eastside nook high marks for its sausage, and rate the sliced-brisket sandwich 18 toothpicks out of 20: center-cut, ethereally smoky, tender and moist. Save room for 7UP pound cake for dessert. Cash only. 2827 Martin Luther King, (210) 224-6999
Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q
DINE IN • CATERING • COVERED PATIO • BEER & WINE • DRIVE THRU • DELIVERY LIVE MUSIC WEEKLY • TUESDAY KARAOKE • VEGAN & VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY 110 N. Crossroads Blvd • 210-732-7300 • CrossroadsBBQSA.com
A perennial contender for Best BBQ in the Current’s Best Of polls, Rudy’s rakes in those weekend crowds hungry for brisket, sausage, turkey, ribs, chicken, pork loin and, of course, Rudy’s signature “sause.” Multiple locations, rudys.com
The Smokehouse Since 2004, this 40-foot indoor pit has cranked out pound after pound of meaty favorites including pork ribs, beef finger ribs, short ribs, lamb ribs, sliced pork, turkey and turkey legs (in case you’re in the mood for a taste of several animals at once). 3306 Roland, (210) 333-9548
Two Bros. BBQ Market Chef Jason Dady and sibling Jake, along with pit master Emilio Soliz are calling attention to San Antonio ‘cue with their classic Texas pit-smoked barbecue, slow and low brisket, cherry-glazed baby backs and a genius take on chicken thighs. The homemade sides and fruit cobblers get a standing ovation. 12656 West Ave, (210) 496-0222, twobrosbbqmarket.com
Two Step Restaurant and Cantina Steve Warner, formerly of Wildfish Seafood Grill and Morton’s of Chicago, and wife Adrienne Munoz have added a real barbecue experience to the Northwest Side with the converted 1860s stone house and barn. Oak-smoked meats sold by the pound include fatty or lean brisket, Flinstonian beef ribs, pork chops and sausage. Texas favorites such as catfish and chicken fried rib eye contend for attention with a top ranked burger; it all goes down good with one of the best margaritas in town. 9840 W Loop 1604 N, (210) 688-2686, twosteprestaurant.com
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BREAKFAST Pancake Joe’s 1011 Donaldson, (210) 785-9007 Don’t be fooled by its simple moniker and modest exterior, Pancake Joe’s is so much more than flapjacks. Owned and operated by Jose Cruz, a Guadalajara native, and his family, Pancake Joe’s sits less than a mile away from Jefferson High School, and has been a Westside staple since it opened its doors in 2011. Formerly known as Koffee Kup Pancake House, Pancake Joe’s has made a home for itself two doors down from the original location. The new digs dwarf the previous version and the expanded spot is a hit with both area seniors who lunch during 36
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A classic breakfast combo with waffles, bacon and eggs
the week and families out for a solid breakfast on weekends. Despite intimidating crowds, service (usually provided by one of Cruz’s daughters) is fast and friendly, so the wait is minimal at best, and oh-so-worth-it. The menu is also a bit daunting with its seemingly endless variety of pancakes, waffles, French toast, frittatas, omelets and combination plates. You’re going to need a minute—better yet, make it two. Nothing’s over $10, so there won’t be any bank breaking here. Although Pancake Joe’s carries killer sandwiches and soups, stick with breakfast. You’re not going to find tacos here any time soon, but the Cowboy Breakfast will stick to your ribs. Or try the lemony spinach Eggs Benedict with a side of Joe’s loaded ranch potatoes. Make it a classic breakfast and try the crisp and light waffles topped with berries. Feeling brave? Go for the waffle sundae. Leslie Knope would be proud.
BREAKFAST The Guenther House Located in of the beautiful home of the Pioneer Flour Mill’s founding family, the Guenther House restaurant is the place to go for a rich, traditional, Southern breakfast. Biscuits and gravy, sweet cream waffles and Pioneer brand buttermilk pancakes prove that it’s always a safe bet to go straight to the source for flour-based breakfast favorites. 205 E Guenther, (210) 227-1061, guentherhouse.com
Bagel Factory A bit of the Big Apple in the Alamo City—NYC style bagels and bread made fresh daily, with Reuben sandwiches and breakfast served anytime. Yes, you can get your bagel with lox and cream cheese, but this is SA, so accommodations have been made: The Ranchero puts salsa on that egg and cheese sandwich, or go another direction with the Bagelache, Polish-style Kiolbassa cooked in bagel dough. It’s all good, and locally owned. 15909 San Pedro, Ste. 115, (210) 499-0100, bagel-factory.com
Madhatters Tea House and Cafe This funky teashop in the King William Historic District dishes up an expansive breakfast menu, along with weekend brunch offerings. A few favorites include French toast; tea-infused oatmeal; their “Mad Scrams”— scrambled eggs with various accouterments plus chunky potatoes and salsa on the side; and awesome options for eggs benedict during weekend brunch. 320 Beauregard, (210) 212-4832, madhatterstea.com
Magnolia Pancake Haus Magnolia Pancake Haus is the quintessential breakfast stop in San
Antonio. Myriad options for waffles, pancakes (the “world’s best,” so they claim), and more hearken back to bygone days of eating breakfast in your grandmother’s kitchen. The Haus is popular (even before Guy Fieri’s visit), so be prepared to wait. Multiple locations, magnoliapancakehaus.com
El Milagrito Café El Milagrito’s Chalupa Robert may just be the miracle hangover cure you’ve been missing. The breakfast tacos, chalupas and breakfast plates at this unassuming café off the North Saint Mary’s strip never fail to satisfy hungry breakfast patrons. Breakfast is served early, beginning at 7 a.m. on Sundays and 5:30 a.m. the rest of the week. 521 E Woodlawn, (210) 737-8646, elmilagritocafe.com
Taco Haven A true Southtown staple, the original Taco Haven on South Presa boasts a long history of killer breakfast tacos. You can’t go wrong with the Haven Taco, which features potatoes, peppers and onions all smothered in cheese, or the Torres Special with bean, cheese, bacon and avocado. A second location on South Gevers spreads the Haven love across the city. Multiple locations, tacohaven.info
Kolache Stop Dough is mixed daily, so these sweet and savory kolaches are guaranteed fresh. Be the office hero and pick up a box of sausage and cheese or chorizo and egg to share. Fruit kolaches are available in apricot, blueberry, cherry, raspberry and strawberry. 11703 Huebner, Ste 200, (210) 558-3900, kolachestop.com
Breakfast Is An Experience, At Our Haus.
MAGNOLIA PANCAKE HAUS 10333 Huebner Road • 496-0828 606 Emabassy Oak Suite 100 • 496-0828
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A Swanky Cocktail Parlor on River North
Private Parties | Happy Hour | Reservations Welcome 516 Brooklyn Ave | 210.444.0707 | www.thebrooklynitesa.com
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COCKTAIL TBA 2801 N St Mary’s, (210) 320-1753
The serranoand-cilantroinfused tequila Juan Collins
Some might miss longtime music scene landmark Saluté, but we’re hard-pressed to find detractors of its replacement, TBA. The brainchild of Limelight owner Casey Lange and chef James Moore (formerly with Max’s Wine Dive and Boiler House Texas Grill & Wine Garden), TBA battled heavy construction on the Strip during its first few weeks, but they took it in stride. Head bartender Jonny Yumol creates playful cocktail menus that changes frequently. Selections included the FTD (Fuck This Detour), with mango-infused vodka, Paula’s Orange and habanero bitters, and the Wendy Davis-inspired Filibuster, a carnation pink drink made with watermelon gin, Aperol, lemon and Prosecco. Hot, sweet, topical, you’ll find it all at TBA. With Moore’s first brick-andmortar venture as an owner, the chef is as hands-on as you can get. He keeps busy by infusing seasonal ingredients into spirits used in Yumol’s boozy creations. Moore’s also cranking out elevated bar snacks like grilled cheese sandwiches made with barbacoa, Monterey Jack, green chilies and caramelized onions, homemade chicharrones and pickled veggies. Still, this isn’t strictly a cocktail bar. The small menu contains a list of well-loved craft brews as well as a smattering of moderately priced vinos that make it easy to wind down and cozy up on one of the vintage couches in the back. The bar nurtured its growing fan base by airing the final episodes of Breaking Bad this September and showing pigskin matches on the big screen paired with salty Bloody Marys and Micheladas on Sundays. Don’t miss out on the red curry vodka oyster shots. In keeping with TBA’s moniker, To Be Announced, we look forward to seeing what this joint dreams up next. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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“My handmade Texas vodka beats the giant imports everyday. I make and taste every batch at my original distillery in Austin, Texas to ensure you get only the best!� Founder & Owner Master Distiller
COCKTAIL 20nine Restaurant & Wine Bar Named after the highway that runs through Napa Valley, 20nine has expanded its California focus to include wines from around the world. The kitchen offers a fine seasonal menu for pairings. Bonus: Owner Troy Fullmer is usually on hand to offer suggestions. 255 E Basse, (210) 798-9463, 20ninewine.com
Bohanan’s Bar Filling the ground floor under Mark Bohanan’s famed Old World steakhouse, the swank interior features clubby chairs and a cherrywood bar as long and true as a bowling alley that was designed with the bar menu in mind: classic cocktails from the ’20s, ’30s and ’40s–delivered by a crew trained by one of the best in the biz, New York’s Sasha Petraske, of Milk & Honey fame. 221 E Houston, (210) 472-2202, bohanans.com
The Brooklynite Jeret Peña has raised the bar again with the Brooklynite. Named a Rising Star by Starchefs, and heading the bar at the Esquire Tavern when it was named a finalist for “Outstanding Bar Program, 2012” by the James Beard Foundation, Peña was more than ready for bar proprietorship, and the Brooklynite delivers on the promise with amazing drinks, a unique retro atmosphere, and perfect service. 516 Brooklyn, (210) 444-0707, thebrooklynite.com
Copa Wine Bar Named best wine bar in 2013’s Best of poll, this Stone Oak gem has a
warm faux-Tuscan interior, friendly staff and neighborhood vibe that make Copa a worthy destination. Wines by the glass are moderately priced (most between $7 and $11) but the flights are the best value. 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy, (210) 495-2672, thecopawinebar.com
The Esquire Tavern The River Walk institution is about as San Anto as it gets, serving crafted cocktails crafted by Austin-transplant Houston Eaves, craft beers and small production wines paired with San Antonio comfort food. Lunch and dinner menu items include: deviled eggs, sirloin and bison burgers, pulled chicken salad, fish fingers, tacos con papas and fried apples pies. 155 E Commerce, (210) 222-2521, esquiretavern-sa.com
Havana Bar This dark bar in the belly of Hotel Havana is a quiet contrast to light-filled Ocho topside; it’s filled with sink-into-it leather sofas that populate the room, which is wreathed in light that gleams blue thanks to the walls, punctuated by red votive candles. Stick with the classic Hemingway Daiquiri or branch out to a fortified Santiago Painkiller and start the night off right. 1015 Navarro, (210) 222-2008, havanasanantonio.com
Zinc Bistro & Bar Aside from boasting SA’s finest late-night food-and-wine menu, Zinc does “downtown” better than anywhere else, and the patio is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. Champagne and pizza at 11 p.m.? We’ll be there. 207 N Presa, (210) 224-2900, zincwine.com
Tue.-Fri: 5-2am | Sat: 8-2am | Sun: 12-11pm | Closed Mondays | Happy Hour: Tue.-Fri.: 5-8pm
2801 N St Marys • SanAntonioTx • 78212 • 210.320.1753 • www.tbasatx.com
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SA Pops
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COFFEE & DESSERT
3420 N St Mary’s, (210) 736-2526 There’s no such thing as a quick stop into SA Pops. The funky shop located just down from Joseph’s Bakery off St. Mary’s is made for chit-chatting. Owned and operated by Art Institute of San Antonio instructor Andrew Gutierrez, visitors can take in the tchotchkes that line the walls, most of which aren’t even for sale, while waiting for an artisanal paleta. The seating area is filled with antique metal tables ideal for sitting back in the air-conditioned space with an icy treat. What sets SA Pops apart from other popsicle joints is its dedication to real ingredients and intense flavors. The paletas are all made by hand by Gutierrez once he finishes teaching for the day. He purees fresh fruit using an immersion blender, then adds homemade simple syrup made with organic sugar and purified water. The final adjustment is a hint of lemon, lime or vanilla to balance the flavors. Try the dark purple blackberry, the crimson cherry, sugar-free strawberry or the dreamy cajeta … you really can’t go wrong. The sweets don’t stop there. The shop offers shaved ice and soft-serve, both made daily by the chef. Still, perhaps the sweetest part of SA Pops is that Gutierrez’s parents, both in their 70s, tend to the shop while their son teaches. Mother Marina will run through the ingredient list while pointing out her favorites and helping you decide what treat to nosh on. Even if it’s less than 100 degrees outside, SA Pops’ chilly sweets will warm your heart. 42
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COFFEE & DESSERT Bakery & Dessert Bakery Lorraine In Anne Ng and Jeremy Mandrell we trust when it comes to where to find some of the city’s best croissants. The pair cut their culinary teeth with Thomas Keller’s renowned Bouchon Bakery in Napa Valley and here in SA, they’re a staple for everything from croissants, cookies and French macarons to quiches and pressed sandwiches. 511 E Grayson, (210) 862-5582, bakerylorraine.com
Bird Bakery Elizabeth Chambers (AKA Armie Hammer’s wife) is bringing sweets to Alamo Heights in the über-chic bakery with rustic charm. Try the pecan bars, the fudgy brownies or any of the cupcakes. 5912 Broadway, (210) 804-2473, birdbakery.com
Brindles Awesome Ice Creams Store-made ice creams and gelatos in a long list of flavors have been delighting SA’s scoop set for years, often taking home top honors in the Best Ice Cream category of our annual Best of San Antonio readers poll. 11255 Huebner, (210) 641-5222
Broadway Daily Bread The home of honey whole wheat bread, the seedfilled Birdman and a tasty cranberry almond also carries muffins, scones and seven layer bars. Multiple locations, broadwaydailybread.net
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Choicolate Chicago Chocolate Academy’s Jamie Choi owns this Stone Oak chocolatier. Adventurous flavors like mango and habanero and Earl Grey are subtly delivered and elegantly decorated. 700 E Sonterra, Ste 210, (210) 495-2464, choicolate.com
CIA Bakery Café This Pearl outpost is devoted to mostly French breads, pastries, sandwiches, soups and coffee. Pick up hyper-caloric, decadent pastries or loaves of sourdough with an Americano. 312 Pearl Pkwy, (210) 554-6484
cake pops character pops pop bouquet Custom cakes cupcakes atomic pops gourmetsandwiches boxed lunches doG treats and pops wedding cakes scrap book cakes coffee & beverages
150 W. Olmos Dr. • San Antonio, Tx 78212 210.387.2305 • cosmiccakery.com 44
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Cosmic Cakery The cakepops here, in 36 flavors from relatively tame red velvet to totally cray cherry cola, are out of this world and completely adorable. Cosmic also features custom-order cakes in a galaxy of flavors, fillings and frostings, decorated by imaginative cake boss Brittany Morgan. 150 W Olmos, (210) 387-2305, cosmiccakery. com
El Paraiso Paleteria This ice cream paradise is located in the Deco District. Try the Mexican-style popsicles in flavors such as mango with chile, horchata (cinnamon-spiced rice milk), pecan, and plain old chocolate. 1934 Fredericksburg, (210) 737-8101
Kate’s Frosting Whether you’re picking up a box of cupcakes or some jewelry, Kate’s envelopes you with a sweet hint of buttercream. The menu changes seasonally, but staples like the Ruby Slipper and the Jessica Rabbit are always on hand. Multiple locations, katesfrosting.net
COFFEE & DESSERT Lily’s Cookies This shop makes decorative cookies that taste even better than they look. Conveniently located in Monte Vista, cupcakes are also on the menu in addition to a vast cookie bar. 2716 McCullough, (210) 832-0886, lilyscookies.com
Panifico Bake Shop This bakery features traditional Mexican breads, cakes, pies, tarts and buttery tortillas. Try the assorted empanadas as well as the European-style tortes. 602 NW 24th, (210) 434-9290, panifico.com
Custom Cakes Cookies, & More. Sculpted to match any personality!
Whip Stitch This isn’t your ordinary cake shop. Whip Stitch Custom Cakes, located in Southtown, is your made-to-order custom cake shop specializing in confectionary art creations from sculpted 3-D cakes to homemade pies. 807 S Presa, (210) 454-8966, whipstchcc.com
coffee & tea Bubblehead Lounge around, take in an art show or strike up a convo with the friendly staff as you sip on fruity drinks and bubble teas at this Southtown stop. 1035 S Presa, (210) 224-0559
Candlelight An eclectic mix of couches and divans provides for study or relaxation. In addition to coffees, cakes and pastries, Candlelight offers beer, an extensive wine list, soups and sandwiches. 3011 N St. Mary’s, (210) 738-0099, candlelightsa.com
IAMA Coffee House IAMA stands for International Academy of Music and the Arts, a music school that serves coffee and sandwiches while the sounds of pianos and guitars float by. IAMA uses Boar’s Head deli meats to great effect, particularly the toasted turkey and cheddar sandwiches. 1627 Broadway, (210) 310-6298, iamacoffeehouse.com
La Taza Coffee House A neighborhood coffee house, this locally owned java joint hosts weekly meetings of all sorts, while keeping most of the ’hood caffeinated. 15060 San Pedro, (210) 494-8292, lataza.biz
Local Coffee Expanding from the original Stone Oak location down to Alamo Heights has opened up a new world for coffee drinkers inside the loop. Expertly trained baristas brew up fine house blends, espressos and slow pours made with beans sourced from ethical, fair-trade growers and roasters. Multiple locations, localcoffeesa.com
Olmos Perk Perennially in the top three coffee shops in town according to our Best of SA readers poll, Olmos Perk is a home away from home for most of its patrons. Sip on some tea, order a fruit cup or smoothie and toil away. 5223 McCullough, (210) 858-2956, olmosperk.com
Suck It Hookah & Bubble Tea Stop in and suck on hookah pipes with over 120 flavors of shisa, an insane variety of fruit bubble teas, custard and jelly sinkers, plus chai, in a laid back atmosphere. Multiple locations, suckitsa.com
807 S. Presa San Antonio, TX 78210 210-454-8966 www.whipstitchcc.com
Fall Hours: Tuesday - Sunday • 2-8 p.m. Summer Hours: May-August, 7 days a week • 11a-9p
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3420 N. Saint Mary’s St., Ste. 101 San Antonio, TX 78212 • 210.882.8903 Located near the San Antonio Zoo & Aquarium and Brackenridge Park sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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OCOLATE • LATTES • CAPPUCCINOS • BAGELS • PANINO • CROISSANTS SANDWICHES • ENGLISH MUFFIN • BREAKFAST BOWLS • ASSORTED DANISH • TURNOVERS • SCONES • FREE T CH
TREAT YOURSELF TO SOMETHING
BETTER. ™
We serve gourmet sandwiches & panini, wraps, soups and salads, pastries, coffee and espresso drinks, and our own scratch desserts. Whether you desire a fast, casual meal that’s away from the ordinary or a serene setting to enjoy your afternoon, Hearthstone Bakery Cafe has it. We offer wireless internet service to our in-store customers. Catering and Delivery is also available, contact a store for more details.
The Forum • 8096 Agora Parkway • 210.798.8646 Olmos Park • 4212 McCullough • 210.826.5667 Hearthstone Xpress at Grace • 3233 N. St Mary’s St. • 210.826.5667
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hearthstonebakerycafes.com
OLATE • LATTES • CAPPUCCINOS • BAGELS • PANINO • CROISSANTS SANDWICHES • ENGLISH MUFFIN • BREAKFAST BOWLS • ASSORTED DANISH • TURNOVERS • SCONES • MUFFINS • OC
-FI • SOUPS • SALADS • GOURMENT SANDWICHES • HOT-PRESSED PANINI • COOKIES • FRUIT • COFFEE • ESPRESSO • HOT TEAS • HOT CH WI
EE WI-FI • SOUPS • SALADS • GOURMENT SANDWICHES • HOT-PRESSED PANINI • COOKIES • FRUIT • COFFEE • ESPRESSO • HOT TEAS • H FR
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DELIs & DINERS Delivery Market 310 E Houston, (210) 226-2400, deliverymarketsa.com It would be easy to say Deliver Market on Houston Street delivers. We wouldn’t be wrong, but the DM does a lot more than that. For hungry downtown workers with only a few minutes to spare, the Market is a haven just far enough away from the office, where the staff actually qualifies as sandwich artisans. The walk to the market, which is nestled between Walgreens and the Buckhorn Museum, is replete with the usual downtown characters–choose a
The Diego Sandwich with turkey, pepper jack, avocado and pico
window seat and continue people watching. A smattering of tables, a straight-forward ordering system, fair prices and a relatively short wait time make the deli a solid choice for lunch, whether you’re hankering for a pizza with up to eight toppings for no extra charge or a chipotle chicken sandwich on crunchy ciabatta with Swiss and a touch of spicy mayonnaise. The staff recommends the Diego, available in both sandwich and hot dog form. The Diego Dog comes with sizable avocado chunks, topped with fresh pico de gallo and mayo ... yes, mayo. The Diego ’Wich trades the hot dog for turkey and pepper jack cheese on your choice of bread. If you simply can’t unchain yourself from your desk, Delivery Market does just that with haste and without the pesky minimums. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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DELIS & DINERS Redefining coffee house music A place where roasted java meets music & arts education
iamacoffeehouse.com
Bud Jones Restaurant The South Side staple celebrated 55 years of business this year for a reason. Dine-in or carry out: Even the 25-piece mega meal won’t set you back. Understand the longevity by visiting the home of all-you-can-eat fish. 1440 SW Military, (210) 977-9161, budjonesrestaurant.com
Cheesy Jane’s Jane is known for her monster burgers, sliders, nachos and big ole’ malts. Try Jane’s veggie options too, like the Boca Burger or the Triple Grilled Cheese sandwich. With fries, of course. In addition to the Broadway flagship, a fave for local students, Jane’s gone mobile as well. Multiple locations, cheesyjanes.com
Chicago Bagel and Deli
Hourly and half-hour lessons available Mon.-Sat. We teach all instruments and voice. 8am-3pm
8am-9pm
Saturday Sunday Monday
Tuesday through Friday
COFFEE DELI WI-FI MUSIC
1627 Broadway | 210-310-6298
Chicago Bagel& Deli
EAT MORE
BAGELS The only place in SA to get BOILED and BAKED bagels fresh on site daily, Our lox is flown in weekly from Brooklyn, serving up lox sandwiches like a BOSS.
Wholesalers to Whole Foods, the Westin Hotels and others, with retail to the public for the best Chicago hot dogs, gyros, philly cheese steaks, chicken sandwiches, egg salad, chicken salad, chopped liver, lox, pastrami and corn beef sandwiches. But here’s the bottom line: “We mix and bake our bagels from scratch daily in the traditional way. Our bagels are the only ones in the city that are mixed, boiled, and baked on premises and we take pride in that. No steaming or frozen bagels here. Bagels are supposed to be boiled and that’s that.” 10918 Wurzbach, (210) 691-2245, chicagobagelanddeli.com
DeWese’s Tip Top Café The loved café has been in the Deco District since back when it was really Deco. The service is truly hospitable, and they don’t take plastic (There’s a bank with an ATM across the street if you find yourself in need of cash). Stop by on Tuesday nights for the chicken-fried steak special. 2814 Fredericksburg, (210) 732-0191, tiptopcafe.com
Earl Abel’s Nostalgia and fried chicken keep this uprooted and replanted institution going. Stop by for a piece of pie or any of the daily specials such as the grilled chopped steak, baked hen and cornbread dressing or spaghetti and meatballs. 1201 Austin Hwy, (210) 822-3358, earlabelssa.com
Guillermo’s Deli Fall in love with owner Willie’s focaccia bread—it’s used in just about every dish for a very good reason. The buttery, pillow-y bread goes great with any of the pastas, including the spinach bowtie pasta, and makes for one mean sandwich. 618 McCullough, (210) 223-5587, guillermosdowntown.com
Hearthstone Bakery Cafe
REAL BAGELS • KETTLE BOILED FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1999 making us the oldest bagel shop in SAN ANTONIO STORE HOURS WEEKDAYS: 6am-3pm • SAT: 7am-3pm SUN: 7am-2pm For bagel orders call 691-2245 • Wholesale inquires call 860-3470
DON’T FORGET TO LIKE US ON
10918 WURZBACH, STE 132 S.A., TX 78230 48
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Health and flavor go hand in hand at this great breakfast, lunch and dinner spot. The freshness of the ingredients is tasted in every bite of homemade goodness, and nothing tops the fresh baked desserts and confections at this locally owned and operated café. Hearthstone caters and delivers for any size group. Multiple locations, hearthstonebakerycafe.com
Mary Ann’s Pig Stand Kitschy décor? Check. Retro vibe? Check. This is a diner through and through. Stop in for a hearty breakfast, barbecue lunch or home-style dinner (fried chicken, pork chops or liver and onions, anyone?) The ambience wouldn’t be complete without sweet
DELIS & DINERS fountain treats like a root beer float, chocolate malt or slice of pie. 1508 Broadway, (210) 222-9923
Pam’s Patio Kitchen Focaccia-wrapped sandwiches and the avocado mango salsa are a winning combination for lunch. Pam’s menu changes in the evening to include pad Thai, beef curry, stacked enchiladas, pastas and tangy shrimp tacos. 11826 Wurzbach, (210) 492-1359, pamspatio.com
Picnikins Patio Café Award-winning gourmet sandwiches are the perfect antidotes to a too-short lunch break. Soups like the roasted poblano pepper and tomato basil are made from scratch and available daily. Elegant dinner entrees like mushroom and leek meatloaf, braised lamb shanks and Angus beef tenderloin transform the eatery by night. Multiple locations, picnikinspatiocafe.com
well as several options for a quick breakfast or lunch. If you have time to eat in, check out one of 11 tempting paninos, the turkey and Swiss with pesto is a favorite. You can also pick up a box lunch to go. 160 E Houston, (210) 222-0149
The Station Café Everything is made from scratch at this Southtown gem. Try the habanero turkey sandwich or Southwestern pizza, and top it off with a slice of coconut cream pie. Inventive specials occasionally round out the large menu of triedand-true favorites. 701 S St. Mary’s, (210) 444-2200, thestationsa.com
Tommy Moore’s Café & Deli Home-cooked meatloaf, serious fried chicken and real mashed potatoes—all served in a supremely sophisticated setting. 915 S Hackberry, (210) 531-9800
W.D. Deli Sandwich De Paris The establishment is off the radar (“in the ’burbs” as some would say), but maintains a steady clientele of Medical Center professionals hungry for best-selling sandwiches such as the California Club French Ham (cured in-house) and the hot selection, the Avocado Chicken. 7220 Louis Pasteur, Ste 142, (210) 692-3429
Sip With a view of bustling St. Mary’s and Houston, this Andrew Weissman venture offers straightforward coffee and espresso drinks as
You can try the specialty sandwiches like the chicken chipotle parmesan or the turkey club sandwich, but definitely end the meal with one of W.D. Deli’s ginormous cookies or sweet lemon bars. 3123 Broadway, (210) 828-2322, wddeli.com
Zito’s Deli Since 1974, this family-owned deli has prided itself on classics like the flagship Serious Sandwich (salami, two types of ham, provolone, cheddar, olives, onions, tomatoes and lettuce). Suggestion: go with the Italian on white. Multiple locations, zitosdeli.net
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EUROPEAN Saveurs 209 209 Broadway, (210) 223-0209, saveurstx.com “Healthy” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you imagine French cuisine, but voila, Saveurs 209 makes it so. The relative newcomer to a block of downtown Broadway (just north of Paris Hatters) offers lunches for a busy business set and dinners for unwinding after the day’s done. While midday dishes are simple affairs of soups, salads and sandwiches (with the obligatory cheese plate, just in case), dinners are fancy enough to warrant a bottle of real Champagne. A recent evening menu featured seared foie gras with roasted mango, halibut with a clam ragout and a Hudson Valley duck breast. It’s all cleanly plated and refreshingly free of the typical protein-drenched-inbutter-and-covered-in-cream approach. That being said, desserts and the wine list are not to be missed. On the sweet side, a soufflé is practically mandatory, but there are plenty of patisseries to taste, too. The wines are expertly sourced, and the Champagne cocktails will make dinner an affair to remember. Perhaps the best thing about Saveurs 209 is its lack of pretension. This is thanks to two things: an almost searingly bright décor, going against the typical Old World dark and clubby feel; and the charming family of owners, a Parisian couple and their chef daughter, who will walk you through the menu and suggest wine pairings with an infectious enthusiasm. Bon appétit! 50
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Soft-boiled, breaded egg with sauteed mushrooms
European Anne Marie’s Carriage House Bistro The Botanical Garden’s quaint restaurant boasts an eclectic menu that is sure to please the inner foodie in you. Chef David Gates describes his culinary point of view as “fresh ingredients & products made from scratch,” from the breads and desserts, the salad dressings and sauces, to the house smoked chicken and beef. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston, (210) 826-5800, annemaries.com/ carriagehousebistro
Bella on the River Live jazz and a cozy patio make this a perfect choice for tourists and locals alike. Mediterranean fare ranging from Bella’s Eggplant Josephine and seafood paella to lamb chops spans the Southern European menu, with something for everyone. A romantic spot with tons of charm and reasonable prices, don’t miss Bella On The River. 106 River Walk, (210) 404-2355, bellaontheriver.com
Boardwalk Bistro This locally owned and operated eatery banks on its casual ambience, Euro-style interior and al fresco dining. Try the award-winning Mediterranean cuisine such as the lamb tagine, a braised dish of lamb, apricots, dates, cinnamon, fig and harissa dressing on a bed of fluffy couscous. Bring the family and enjoy family style sampler platters like the kebab taster or the Eastern Mediterranean sampler. 4011 Broadway, (210) 824-0100, boardwalkbistro.net
Coco Chocolate Lounge & Bistro Get there early and dine on delectable offerings made from the pure taste of chocolate inspiration. From cocktails to appetizers to unbelievable desserts, Coco is the perfect thing for a girls’ night out or an entertaining first date for a mix of dining and nightlife. 18402 US Hwy 281, Ste 114, (210) 491-4480, sa-coco.com
▲ La Frite Belgian Bistro From its moules to its crispy frites, this Southtown homage to European café life feels and tastes authentic down to it’s row of sidewalk seating and a top-notch list of Belgian beers. 728 S Alamo, (210) 224-7555, lafritesa.com
Mesón European Dining The rich heritage of European dining tradition is presented in grand style at Mesón, where in-the-know guests come to enjoy Spanish and Italian fare from across the pond. Try the filet mignon, chicken cacciatore and some of the best fettucine alfredo in town. 923 N Loop 1604 E, Ste 115, (210) 690-5811, mesoneuropean.com
Mike’s in the Village Big, flavorful portions? Check. First-rate Nawlins fare? Check. The fried Portobello mushrooms, gumbo and hearty po’boys alone are worth the drive. 2355 Bulverde, Bulverde, (830) 438-2747, mikesinthevillage.com
Crumpets Restaurant & Bakery
Minnie’s Tavern
Chef Francois Maeder has brought SA fine European dining since 1980, with such classic delights as rack of lamb Provençal, beef Wellington and truffle paté. The bakery delivers baguettes, a variety of tarts, flans and strudel. All is presented elegantly, with a solid wine list. 3920 Harry Wurzbach, (210) 821-5600, crumpetssa.com
Andrew Weissman’s French-inspired concept is dishing up brasserie faves out of the tilted Boehler House (formerly Liberty Bar). You can’t go wrong with the massive steak frites, but don’t overlook the confit de canard (duck confit) or the slew of hors d’oeuvres such as the pates, foies gras, bone marrow, chicken liver mousse or the cheese boards. 328 E Josephine, (210) 220-1890
Fig Tree Restaurant Laurent Rea of the late L’Etoile, Olmos Park Bistro and Laurent’s Modern Cuisine, has joined the kitchen staff, which means diners should expect superb sauces and on-point plating. Take a date, and remember: reservations are highly recommended. 515 Villita, (210) 224-1976, figtreerestaurant.com
Speisen
Frederick’s Restaurant
Taste Crepes & More
A younger audience has keyed into this dowdy but disciplined Franco-Asian fusion restaurant in the shadow of Dijon Plaza. Lamb chops and beef tenderloin stand out, but don’t miss the Frederick’s salad of mixed greens, heart of palm, artichokes, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes and edamame. 7701 Broadway, (210) 828-9050, frederickssa.com
Disregard the failed downtown attempt. Taste Crepes & More’s original location at the Rim is still alive and kickin’. The menu sports classics such as the Crepe Suzette, but also boasts unexpectedly named choices such as the “Camp Fire” crepe (modeled after the American s’more), the “Popeye” and “Oh Baby!” featuring Nutella and fresh fruit. 17503 La Cantera Pkwy, Ste 103, (210) 558-0808, tastecrepes.com
Frederick’s Bistro
Tost Bistro Bar
Frederick Costa’s headed north for this relaxed, contemporary departure from his eponymous Broadway home of haute cuisine Find authentic bistro fare (and pizza) accessorized with a good wine list and a real bar. 14439 NW Military, (210) 888-1500, fredericksbistro.com
Slightly upscale and perfect for groups, Tost boasts a glazed pork belly, seared scallops and the Tost Pasta of peas, cherry tomato cofit, crispy prosciutto and goat cheese pesto. The wine list (like the menu) is short but well edited. 14415 Blanco, (210) 408-2670, tostbistro.com
Carlos and Dianko Barajas, owners of Guajillo’s, are celebrating their Austrian heritage with European classics in a relaxed setting. Visit for an affordable culinary tour of Italy, France, Austria, Hungary and Switzerland. 7115 Blanco, Ste 110, (210) 541-8911, speisens.com
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FOOD TRUCKS The Block 14530 Roadrunner Way, (210) 690-3333, theblocksa.com
Jon Onstead at The Block
As far as food truck parks go, The Block didn’t pop up overnight. Owner and UTSA alum Jon Onstead had to jump several hoops to clear his vision for a fun, new, rowdy hangout near his alma mater’s main campus, an idea that began in May 2011. Onstead, who studied real estate finance at UTSA, worked with the City to help implement changes to COSA’s unified development code. He studied food truck parks in Austin and in parts of California to help develop a plan for his own mobile food court. In addition to offering alluring services to the trucks themselves, The Block entices diners with a lovely landscaped environment, with both lawn and xeriscaping. Since opening its gates in early September, the food truck park has already amassed a couple thousand Facebook fans. The appeal is quite plain: there’s cold beer, a central location near UTSA and some serious food trucks. At press time, hungry parkgoers could find scrumptious Mexican fare from Chela’s Tacos, Nawlins-inspired gumbo and po’boys from Lagniappe Today, savory empanadas from Gus’ Empanadas, couture haute dogs from Rocker Dogz, burger bites from Slider Provider, Texan favorites via the Institute of Chili, and then some. The Block also lures in Roadrunners and families from surrounding neighborhoods with Monday Night Football and movie screenings. While Onstead’s still visiting the park almost daily to ensure everything runs smoothly, he hopes to let go of the reigns to pursue other projects such as food delivery. “It’s all about the next idea,” Onstead said. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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FOOD TRUCKS Alamo Street Eat Bar Good food, cold beer, reasonable prices and portions. Located at the former Acapulco Drive Inn, this food park is the place to go late nights (or anytime after 5 p.m.), brought to the neighborhood by the owners of nearby The Friendly Spot. It took awhile, but food trucks have finally come to Southtown, and it was worth the wait. 609 S Alamo, (210) 227-2469, alamostreeteatbar.com /thefridge-sA /thefridge-sA @fridgesA @fridgesA
210.473.0916 • 210.367.3456
AvAilAble for cAterings
Griddle smashed burgers • Gourmet Sandwiches • fresh cut fries
Bite Street Bistro Whipping up sandwiches, wraps and burgers is no problem for this bistro. Try the shrimp burger, or the chicken bacon avocado burger. (210) 287-9847, facebook.com/BiteStBistro
Boardwalk on Bulverde Food trucks are the hottest trend in eating since sliced bread, and Boardwalk on Bulverde is where it started in SA. Beer, wine and food of all varieties are served out of funky trailers alongside such varied entertainment as movies and football at this ambling oasis of food trucks and fun. 14732 Bulverde, (210) 402-2829, boardwalkonbulverde.com
Chocollazo
CATERING/corp0rate EVENTS: 832.497.8469 @CRAZY_CARLS_SA
Attention, chocoholics! Chocollazo is dedicated to everything chocolate. The trailer uses Belgian chocolate for their delicious truffles. Other hits include pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and homemade ’mallows with dark chocolate fondue. (210) 776-3963, chocollazo.com
/CRAZYCARLSSA
CATERING, EVENTS & PARTIES
SWEET & SPICY
Crazy Carl’s Mobil deli, burger shack, hand cut fries mmmm… This mobile kitchen specializes in smoked meats, griddle-smashed burgers and hand-cut fries. (832) 876-8753, facebook.com/CrazyCarlsSA
Cullum’s Attaboy Operating out of a vintage Airstream trailer, Attaboy reinvents the classic burgers and fries with welcome touches like handmade buns and pickles, home-cured bacon, fresh veggies, and add-ons like boudin sausage, Gouda and cayenne ranch. Also available at Tucker’s Kozy Korner, 1338 E Houston, attaboyburgers.com
The DUK Truck facebook.com/getporku twitter.com/getporku
210.551.6955 • getporku.com
DUK is Dady’s Underground Kitchen, the mobile division of Jason Dady’s Texas restaurant juggernaut, providing a range of treats from salmon grilled cheese to Thai curry with blue crab and Ahi tuna flatbread. (210) 496-0222, facebook.com/DUKtruck
The Fridge Try this grilled panini food truck if you’re in the mood for a guilty pleasure. The signature sandwich is the Hottie, a combination of two chicken breasts battered with Hot Cheetos and spicy herbs and then fried. It’s topped with lettuce, tomatoes, Swiss cheese and is toasted on a white roll with a homemade ranch dressing for dipping. (210) 367-0916, facebook.com/TheFridgeSA
Gourmet on the Fly When he’s not creating high-end dinners, Cutthroat Culinary SA chapter president Dominic Ramos co-owns this food trailer that’s dishing out loaded burgers and homemade chips. Check out the chopped brisket and the veggie salad. (214) 282-3932, facebook. com/onthefly210 54
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A variety of gourmet eats from #SATX favorite rolling kitchens. — Food served from open to close —
Puro #SATX Draft Brews
Including local and texas craft beers. fantastic wine selection, sangria and micheladas. Specials
Downtown Tuesday- Live Music from Danny-O & $3 Alamo Golden Ale Wednesday: DJ Boo Boo Dan & $3 shiner bock Draft Thursday: $2 Lonestar Draft Friday & Saturday: Agosto Cuellar as “DJ Refried” Sunday: $2 PBR Draft & DJ Plata presents “Acapulco Gold” A Throwback to the famous Acapulco Drive Inn Jukebox. Hours
Closed Monday • Tues - Thur: 5p - 12a • Fri & Sat: 5p - 2a • Sun: 10a - 12a
Friend us on Facebook & Follow us on Twitter. 609 S. Alamo Street • 210-227-2469
CHOW HOUND B.Y.O.B.
Find us!
OPEN ALL YEAR
Follow Us! @hippiemommas /hippiemommas
Attitude
TEXT THE WORD
“BOARDWALK”
@hippiemommas
TO 96362 TO BECOME A
(210) 363-0134
TO RECEIVE UPDATES, NEWS, AND EVENTS ABOUT THE PARK
“
“Comfort food with
San Antonio’s 1st Mobile Food Truck & Trailer Park
VIP FOODIE
PLAYGROUND - ARCADE - MECHANICAL BULL JUMBO MOVIE SCREENS - SPORTS DEN & BAR B.Y.O.B - PET FRIENDLY - SHADED AREAS
OPEN THUR-SAT 210.402.2809 FIND THE WEEKLY FOOD TRUCK LINE UP & SPECIAL EVENTS AT ParkAtThePoint.com or Facebook & Twitter (@thepointpark) : 24188 Boerne Stage Rd :
For more info, events, & hours visit
www.BOARDWALKONBULVERDE.com 14372 Bulverde Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247
FOOD TRUCKS Grilled Cheese Truck
Sir-Wacha
This military vet-run franchise food truck combines discipline and melty goodness. The truck splits its time between SA and Austin, so keep an eye out for it when it’s in town and pick up the brie, caramelized onions, pecans and bacon grilled sammie. (512) 297-4059, facebook. com/TheGrilledCheeseTruckTexas
One of the latest trucks to hit the road, Sir-Wacha is slowly building a following with giant banh mi, fresh spring rolls and vegan-friendly veggie bowls. Find them at The Block for lunch and dinner. (210) 689-3675, @ SirWachafood
Slider Provider Hippie Mommas These mamas serve “comfort food with an attitude.” Try the Texasshaped SA cornbread waffle topped with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, cheese, avocado and onion or the ever-popular bacon-stuffed and boudinwrapped jalapeños. (210) 363-0134, facebook.com/HippieMommas
This food truck specializes in barbecue, sandwiches and Southern food. Try the Chuck Norris slider with American cheese (duh), Sriracha ketchup, caramelized onions and bacon. (936) 718-3315, facebook. com/SliderProvider
SpiceSea Gourmet Institute of Chili The Chili Queens were a legendary part of San Antonio, serving chili, tamales and tortillas in the plazas from the 1700s until they were shut down (with pressure from jealous restaurants) by the City early last century. The modern day chili queens of the Institute of Chili continue their legacy by bringing good home cooking to friends and strangers under the sheltering Tejas sky. (210) 744-0000
Lagniappe Today Lagniappe means “a little something extra,” and that’s what you get at this authentic Louisiana delight on wheels, offering Cajun/Creole, Southern Style and seafood, including crawfish etoufee, pistolettes, smothered chicken and bread pudding and more, using family and chef-inspired recipes—all prepared by hand. (210) 551-2391, lagniappetoday.com
The Point Park and Eats The Point is an open-air bar with a wide selection of beer and wine, a food park, and an arthouse with plenty of shaded seating. SA’s top trucks rotate through the park Tuesday-Sunday. Got a fave? Check out the website to see who’s cookin’. 24188 Boerne Stage, (210) 251-3380, pointparkandeats.com
Rickshaw Stop Rickshaw has attracted national buzz by serving savory traditional Pakistani street food, like kebabs and samosas, using beef, seasoned ground chicken or veggies (potatoes/bell pepper), covered with chutneys made with spicy cilantro and mint, mild yogurt, or sweet and sour tamarind sauce. Desserts include kheer (rice pudding) and baklava—all food guaranteed 100 percent Halal. (210) 902-9308, rickshawstop-sa.com
RockerDogz Tired of the same ol’ dog? Pay chef Kris Martinez a visit ASAP. He turns ordinary into sublime by adding fresh ingredients and creating drool-worthy combinations such as the Thai Kick Boxer with tomatoes, serranos, mustard, sweet chili glaze, red cabbage, cilantro, mint, Thai bail, a light sesame vinaigrette, cucumber and Sriracha. It’s a delicious mouthful. Follow the very mobile cart on Facebook and Twitter for locations. (210) 467-8066
Fresh, fresh, fresh. Whether she’s creating comfort in a bowl via lobster mac ’n’ cheese or crab-filled crab cakes, chef Whitney Matthews keeps her menus adventurous. The Virginia native is bringing her seafaring ways to SA with delicious results. (210) 601-2858, facebook. com/TheSpiceSeaGourmet.
Melting Point Grilled cheese anyone? This new truck offers a classic grilled cheese, a caprese sammie and an All-Nighter with Mexican chorizo and poblano pepper rajas topped with fried egg on Texas toast. (210) 508-4373, facebook.com/meltingpointtruck
Mr. Meximum You can’t miss this colorful truck featuring a cartoon-y luchador. Good thing, since this is the truck to follow in town for giant burritos filled with grilled steak, spicy chicken or traditional al pastor, all equally tasty. Mini tacos and other Mexican staples are also on offer. (210) 459-1133, mrmeximum.com
Takoriya “This is the best Korean taco truck in world,” proclaims chef/ownerJ.K. Song’s menu. And maybe so. Takoriya offers Korean BBQ, and mixes Tex-Mex ingredients like beef, chicken, pork and cheese with sour/spicy kimchee, adds fried rice and veggies, then serves it in tacos, burritos, bowls and over fries. Our critic swears he’ll be back—for the “special sauce.” (210) 766-1914, takoriya.com
Tapa Tapa Truck Rudolfo Martinez’ eclectic, chef-driven truck specializes in a changing menu that ranges from New American to Brazilian to Asian-fusion cuisine. Examples include pork belly and watermelon with spicy peanut sauce, truffled mac ‘n’ cheese, BBQ fried chicken with licorice potato salad, and the ever-popular watermelon and pop-rocks. (210) 373-9907, facebook.com/tapatapatruck
Wayne’s Wings Listen, you’re not going to find the next culinary trend at Wayne’s. But you will find crispy, crunchy wings in all sorts of flavors and a droolworthy Philly cheesesteak. Wayne’s rolling out in a bigger, better truck soon—his original trailer caught fire in mid-September. (210) 300-3891, facebook.com/WaynesWings.DwaynePrice
Say.She.Ate Mobile Eclectic Fare Chef Brandon McKelvey calls his Akaushi beef sliders and doublefried-in-duck-fat Belgian fries “comfort food.” That’s fine with us, we’re just glad they’re both still a staple on the truck’s ranging menu that also includes new takes on Southern standards along with exotic offerings. (210) 446-8257, facebook.com/saysheatetx
Wheelie Gourmet This colorful mobile sandwich joint boasts a Moroccan influence. The embrace of fresh bread and veggies, plus inventive spices and crispy Belgian fries, makes the ever-changing location worth the hunt and the service worth the wait. (210) 370-7692, wheeliegourmet.com sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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Experience Latin America The Food, The Music, The Art
Every six weeks, Nao takes you on an exciting journey to a different country in Latin America to experience the culture and food of each region. You’ll want to return to Nao again and again to enjoy traditional ingredients prepared in a deliciously contemporary way.
Dinner at Nao Late Night at Nao Farmers’ Market Lunch at Nao Nao on the Plaza Taco Stand Happy Hour To learn more, visit www.naorestaurant.com
naorestaurant 312 Pearl Parkway | San Antonio, TX 78215 | 210-554-6484 | naorestaurant.com Learn more about The Culinary Institute of America by visiting CIAChef.edu
paytonphotography.com
GLOBAL Naara Café 9329 Wurzbach, (210) 558-9800, naaracafe.com Best falafel in town? Look no further than Naara Café. Nestled in a Wurzbach Road compound of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eats that includes Ali Baba International Food Market and Pasha Mediterranean Grill, Naara boasts not only a vast selection of bubbly hookah flavors available on the oasis-like patio, but also a varied menu for just about every appetite. Try the manakish, a thinly rolled flatbread topped with spices and tied together nicely with chopped tomatoes and feta, as a starter. Crisp, savory and well-balanced, the popular dish helps set the course for the coming entrees.
Naara’s falafel plate, one of the best in town
Move on to that noteworthy falafel, flattened patties of ground fava bean, wheat and chickpeas seasoned just so. If you’re in the mood for something meatier, give the lamb shish kebab plate a go. Nicely charred, tender and marinated, the lamb can also be enjoyed bundled in a wrap with hummus, tomatoes and pickles. Naara bends the rules a bit by offering eight pizzas with toppings such as sausage and mushrooms, beef gyro meat, feta and tomatoes and a veggie version with eggplant, olives, onions and tomatoes. Ask the kitchen to hold back on the mozzarella, and let the other toppings shine. Supplement your post-dinner Fuzzy Navel hookah with something sweet. Naara offers baklava made across the way at Pasha and drinks including the exotic hot sahlab tea topped with cinnamon and chopped pistachios. Or really take a plunge into Naara’s fare with a cold and colorful carrot juice. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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GLOBAL Colombian Fonda Latina Fonda Latina successfully captures the flavors of authentic Colombian cuisine, serving traditional dishes like bistek a caballo—steak with a fried egg on top—banana-leaf-wrapped tamales and arepas con pollo and aji. 6714 San Pedro, (210) 824-2544
Cuban Azuca Nuevo Latino This Southtown spot provides Latin cuisine that’s light on the Mexican accent. The fusion menu ambitiously aims to marry the best of the New World’s disparate cuisine, which apparently includes curly fries. 713 S Alamo, (210) 225-5550, azuca.net Ocho Pair your Hemingway Daiquiri with aspirational lunch and dinner fare, including the Havana Cubano torta with achioteroasted pork shoulder, griddled ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and Dijon mustard, and savory papas bravas (top them with a fried egg, you know you want to). Hotel Havana, 1015 Navarro, (210) 222-2008, havanasanantonio.com
Greek Athens Greek Xpress & Catering Downtowners are getting far healthier food in a shiny-bright environment with pleasant, quick service. Plates run under $10 and most are variations themes of chicken shawarma and gyros with Greek salad—wrapped or not. 111 S Flores, (210) 2275711, athensgreekxpress.eat24hour.com Cool Café Mediterranean Cuisine and Bar The Stone Oak location has closed but you can still find reasonably priced dishes that fuse Mediterranean flavors for a mix of savory crepes, succulent kebabs, rich pastas and delish sammies. 12651 Vance Jackson, (210) 877-5001
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or the daunting Original Texas Longhorn, a phyllo pastry horn filled with cheesecake pudding, bananas, mangos, whipped cream and chocolate. Opa! 7159 Hwy 90 W, (210) 674-3464, agreekhouse.com Papouli’s Greek Grill The SA-based chain has four locations throughout the city, each dishing up traditional and contemporary cuisine made with fresh ingredients. Try the classic leg of lamb or go for a lighter Greek salad. Multiple locations, papoulis.com
Indian India Oven Naan bread, vegetable pakoras, tandoori specialties, and a wide buffet have earned India Oven many longtime fans. The cozy interior is perfect for a date or a simple lunch. Enjoy the flavors of the subcontinent without hurting your wallet. 1031 Patricia, Ste 106, (210) 366-1030, indiaoven.com India Palace Buffet chafing dishes are changed regularly, and nothing seems really tired. Saag paneer and dal makhani are reliable staples. Avoid the lunch rush and opt for an intimate dinner. 8747 Fredericksburg, Ste 100, (210) 692-5262, indiapalacesa.com India Taj-Palace The lunch and dinner buffet at this Stone Oak restaurant is worth a visit (or two), due to its use of fresh spices and perfectly cooked vegetables. Chicken korma, saag paneer and cilantroonion naan were especially notable. 20323 Huebner, (210) 4974800, indiatajpalace.com Mela Indian Bar & Grill Mela serves some of the less-common Indian dishes and the spices are fresh and generous. Current critics especially loved the chicken chattinad, lamb nargisi and falooda. 4987 NW Loop 410, (210) 682-1234, melagrill.com
Demo’s Greek Food With locations off Blanco, the Vineyard and St. Mary’s, this 34-year-old, local fast-casual chain isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Go for the tender beef souvlaki, but stay for the charming décor and belly dancing. Multiple locations, demosgreekfood.com
Mustafa Cuisine You’re not visiting Mustafa’s for the decor (much of which comes from the TV tuned to Bollywood faves), but it more than delivers with both familiar dishes and others seldom seen in SA. Breads are fine, curries vary, but goat and cauliflower take two often-neglected ingredients and elevate them to exalted status. 408 Medical, (210) 615-7861, mustafarestaurant.com
John the Greek The flavors of Athens, which have been served in this Greek home-style eatery since 1988, make John The Greek so compelling. Avgolemono soup, gyros, souvlaki and mousaka… just like ya-ya used to make. 16602 San Pedro, (210) 403-0565, johnthegreek.com
Sarovar Indian Cuisine Delectable dishes include the chickpea-battered pakoras, vegetable samosas and lamb korma. The enigmatic Chicken 65, with curry leafs, onions, spices and herbs is worth checking out. The elegant lamb biryani is a pleasant surprise. 10227 Ironside, (210) 558-8289, sarovar.net
Mina and Dimi’s Greek House Traditional Greek fare served with a side of hospitality. Although the pita is soft and savory, the flavorful gyro can stand on its own, perhaps accompanied by flaky spanakopita or a tangy Greek salad. Sweeten the deal with homemade flaky baklava
Taste of Malabar This tiny hole-in-the-wall isn’t much to look at but the friendly service, pillowy naan available in several varieties and the vegetarian paneers beg a second, third or fourth visit. 5999 De Zavala, (210) 561-4409
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entirely [well] done
award winning happy hour • gift cards wine down wednesdays with half price bottles of wine large patio for group dining the shops at la cantera 15900 la cantera parkway san antonio, tx 78256 210-877-5355 www.konagrill.com
kitchen • sushi • cocktails
GLOBAL Latin American Beto’s on Broadway Known for it’s empanadas and epicurean fare, Beto’s has dealt with the national attention via Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives well. The veggie taco comes stuffed with well-seasoned squash and caramelized onions. It’s almost as good as the savory potato-andspinach empanada. You’ll want dessert, too: banana with leche quemada and pecan empanadas will light up your taste buds. Settling in on the patio with a cold margarita or mojito is a great way to unwind. 8142 Broadway, (210) 930-9393, betosinfo.com NAO: New World Flavors NAO restaurant is dedicated to the exploration, preservation and celebration of the authentic cuisines, cultures, and bounty of Latin America. Unique flavors, inspired by iconic ingredients and indigenous preparations, are presented in a contemporary style. Distinctive and exciting cocktails and beverages compliment the cuisine. And an extensive wine list rounds out the experience in this modern and dramatic setting. 312 Pearl Pkwy, Ste 2104, (210) 554-6484, ciarestaurants.com
Mediterranean Albustan Mediterranean Restaurant San Antonio’s first all-you-can-eat Mediterranean restaurant
impresses with value and variety. The Halal buffet includes chicken and beef kebabs, falafel, salads and a smattering of vegetarian dishes. 4841 Fredericksburg, (210) 525-1231 Azro Moroccan & Mediterranean Bistro Azro engineer-turned-chef Khalid Said is whipping up Moroccan faves such as the vibrant and warm harira soup, a beautiful tabouli and seafood bastilla made of baked layers of thin pastry filled with salmon and shrimp inside this small, clean and inviting Castle Hills nook. 2211 NW Military, Ste 131, (210) 3420011, azro-bistro.com Jerusalem Grill Long skewers of lamb and chicken beckon, but try the Syrianstyle kibbeh instead, with sides of both hummus and baba ghanoush. Though the portions are uncommonly small—and perhaps overpriced—the cost of going without such delicacies would be higher still. 3259 Wurzbach, (210) 680-8400, jerusalemgrill.net Moroccan Bites Tucked away in a shopping center off Evers, Moroccan Bites is all about family and fresh ingredients at this establisment run by a Moroccan crew by way of New Orleans. Fresh bread and mint tea will bring you to your knees, but skip the soups and go straight for the chicken or lamb tagine. 5714 Evers, (210) 7069700
CARIBBEAN, CENTRAL, AND LATIN AMERICA CUISINE Live Salsa Music & Dancing Fridays and Saturdays!
Signature Cocktails:
Mojitos, Caipirinhas & Pisco Sours JUST $3. 50!
Half Price Tapas During Happy Hour! Monday – Friday 4 – 7PM
713 S. ALAMO STREET • 210.225.5550 62
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GLOBAL Pasha Mediterranean Grill It’s hard not to fill up on the hot, fresh flatbread and zaatar spice mix, but you have to save room for Pasha’s delicious Mid-east fare. Standouts include the tender kabobs, smoky baba ghanoush and the saffron-marinated Cornish hens. Multiple locations, gopasha.com Shisha’s Café A hotspot for hookah-loving college students, Shisha has plenty to offer. Try the garlicky hummus, the giant falafel or the perfectly seasoned chicken shawarma sandwich wrapped in warm pita bread and filled with garlic sauce, pickles, lettuce and tomatoes. 5500 Babcock, Ste 101, (210) 694-4800, shishacafesa.com Turquoise Grill Turquoise Grille is a welcome setting for a variety of Turkish foods–including excellent Doner kebab, mixed grill, chicken tava, baklava, rice pudding—with affordable prices. 3720 NW Loop 410, (210) 736-2887, turquoisegrill.com
Pakistani Kohinoor Restaurant & Grill The spices and service are warm and intoxicating at this family-run restaurant that uses 100 percent Zabiha Halal meat. Although the menu is a list of possibilities, take a chance on the special of the day. Save room for desserts such as the rose- and fennel-scented sweet masala paan. 8513 Starcrest, (210) 637-7360, kohinoorsa.com
Paella and Tapas Bar Thu: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 12:00 am Sun: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm 1420 South Alamo Suite 101 • barracatx.com • (210) 445-2203
Tasteful North Indian Cuisine in an Elegant Setting
Puerto Rican El Bohio Guy Fieri paid this restaurant a visit, so expect a wait, but it’ll be worth your time. Almost everything made with yuca and plantain is a savory hit, and don’t forget about the traditional Cubano sandwich, the ropa vieja or the mofongo with mashed plantains, fried pork and garlic sauce. 1127 Harry Wurzbach, (210) 822-8075
Call Us For Your Holiday Catering.
La Marginal The rice with pinto beans here is savory and on point in terms of flavor thanks to a decent sofrito with olives and ham. The buffet offering is affordable and workable, as long as you stick with the tender roast pork, pernil, and salty, sweet plantains. 2447 Nacogdoches, (210) 804-2242, lamarginal.com
Spanish Barraca Barraca, the latest addition to Blue Star’s growing arsenal of restaurants, brings a taste of Spain to the Alamo City. This tapas and paella bar by chef Javier Flores presents simple, rustic flavor profiles in an intimate setting. The patatas bravas shine among the tapas. 1420 S Alamo, Ste 101, (210) 4452203, facebook.com/Barracatx
Grand Champagne Thanksgiving Buffet Thursday Nov. 28 11-3:00pm
Tandoori Turkey & Turkey Masala Chicken, Beef, Vegetables & More.
1031 Patricia Drive | 210.366.1030 | www.indiaoven.biz Gift Certificates Available
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paytonphotography.com
HEALTHY Zedric’s: Fresh Gourmet to Go Multiple locations, zedrics.com It’s not every day a healthy restaurant earns top honors for jicama chicken tacos at Taste of the Heights or second place at Johnny Hernandez’ paella challenge at the Pearl. Then again, this isn’t just any ready-to-eat, prepackaged grub. It was late 2010 when Zedric’s first opened its doors in a Castle Hills shopping center. The family business owned by chef Zach Lutton—a Culinary Institute of America-Hyde Park grad who cut his teeth at Biga on the Banks under Bruce Auden—along with his brother Vince and mother Elaine, started out with a goal of providing fresh, healthy food to go for a chunky San Antonio crowd. Almost three years later, that same goal is going strong and it’s also growing. The Luttons relocated the first spot to the Colonnade, where they’ve installed a deluxe salad bar, and then opened a new store in Alamo Heights. Both cater to specific diets including low-calorie, glutenfree, vegetarian or paleo-friendly options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. All entrees are plated and presented in microwavable containers bearing the essential information dieters need: calories, fat content, protein and carbs. Be prepared to throw whatever notions you had about preportioned diet food out the window. Try the chipotle-brined and grilled pork tenderloin with sautéed Brussels sprouts or the turkey ragu and you’ll see that this isn’t flavorless cardboard. Stock up on Zedric’s for post-holiday meals or after a particularly gluttonous weekend; you don’t have to lose weight to love Zedric’s. 64
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Thai Chicken with Thai basil, onion and tumeric over jasmine rice
HEALTHY Farm to Juice
One Lucky Duck
Stone Oak has another juice option in Farm to Juice opened by Robert and Lisa Baughn. The menu includes juices in three categories: Farm to Health Specific; Farm to You Every Day; and Juice Fasting Cleanses in flavors such as Happy Harvest with apple, carrot, ginger, lemon and pumpkin pie spice. Try the coconut yogurts and almond milks. 18730 Stone Oak Pkwy, (210) 332-5853, farmtojuice.net
There’s a lot more than just zesty juices at One Lucky Duck. The juice chain first opened in New York City as the brainchild of raw food expert Sarma Melgailis. Brother Noah is helping provide raw meals and juices (nothing’s cooked over 118 degrees) for the San Antonio crowd. 303 Pearl Pkwy, Ste 109, (210) 223-3825, oneluckyduck.com
Revolucion Coffee + Juice Juicer Heroes Brothers Jason and Joshua Taylor are trying to spread their knowledge of health and wellness through organic juicing and diet and exercise programs. They offer a line of premium and wellness juices, formulated by Dr. Michael Boss, that target specific issues including hair loss, weight loss and inflammation. 15730 San Pedro, (210) 233-9958, juicerheroes.com
Take your pick: direct trade, organic and sustainable coffee or cold pressed veggie and fruit juices. Heck, why not have both? Specialty drinks include a honey lavender latte, and a cajeta latte both of which go well with vegan lemongrass sugar cookies from Vegeria. The juices are also available at the Quarry Farmers and Ranchers Market on Sundays. 7959 Broadway, Ste 507, (210) 701-0725
La Fiesta Patio Café
Uncommon Fare
Specializing in “healthier Tex-Mex” since 1974, La Fiesta Patio Café’s vegetarian-friendly menu is far from short on flavor. Enchilada samplers, puffy tacos (consider trying tofu as a filling) and chalupas (piled high with alfalfa sprouts) never tasted so fresh. 1421 Pat Booker, Universal City, (210) 658-5110
Caterer Tim the Girl wasn’t going to wait around for an H-E-B to magically appear in downtown. She opened Uncommon Fare to provide healthy, fresh alternatives to the Southtown set. The modern day general store serves prepared foods, local produce and superb coffe. 301 E Cevallos, Unit 169, (210) 378-0379
Little Aussie Bakery & Café
URTH Juice Bar
The Little Aussie is a 100 percent gluten-free bakery and restaurant open for brunch and lunch. Try the pizza, savory Australian quiches and deceivingly gluten-free cookies and cake, or grab gluten-free bread to go. 3610 Avenue B, (210) 826-7877, thelittleaussiebakery.com
Urth Juice Bar is dedicated to providing a healthy alternative to fast food with a range of delicious juices, smoothies, and fruit cups. All ingredients and products are locally grown and contain nothing artificial. 5317 McCullough, (210) 272-0467, urthjuicebar.com
MAKING PEOPLE JUICY SINCE 2009
(210) 272-0467 • 5317 McCullough, San Antonio, TX. • urthjuicebar.com sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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Join our Energetic, Professional Bar Crowd at the Lounge or on the Patio.
Proudly serving San Antonio the best flavors of Northern Italian Tuscan cuisine for over 20 years. Enjoy authentic homemade pastas, fresh seafood entrées, wood-burning-oven pizzas, lush garden salads, and Napolean style desserts. Lunch • Dinner • Happy Hour • Sunday Brunch — CLOSED DOOR PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE EVENTS —
1203 N W LOOP 1604 AT BLANCO • (210) 340-0000 • ALDINOS.COM
Ana Aguirre
ITALIAN Barbaro 2720 McCullough, (210) 320-2261, barbarosanantonio.com The folks who brought you The Monterey decided to dip their toes into the pizza pool this summer. Barbaro, with its upscale pizza and shareable salads, has been a welcome addition to the Monte Vista area. Partners Charlie Biedenharn, Chad Carey and Erick Schlather are in the hospitality business and it shows. The walls are lined with kitschy art and lit with funky light fixtures or from lighting above, hidden in the exposed rafters. Depending on the time of day (Barbaro is open for lunch and dinner, brunch on Sundays), the restaurant goes from light and airy to cozy and intimate. The changing menu is concise but offers room to maneuver for cautious (or wild) diners. Our most recent visit presented rich and
The stone fruit salad, with tomatoes, mozzarella and herbs
briny clams casino and heavenly oyster and lobster mushroom with fior di latte, boucheron, and porcini oil pies. Or stick with what you know and build your own pizza, available in small and large portions with individual toppings. Dress it up, dress it down–it’s up to you. Same goes for the salads, which may reduce the caloric guilt of your cheesy carb party. Whether you’re trying Barbaro’s seasonal stone fruit offering with fresh tomatoes and mint or the velvety chopped salad with house-made, dill-filled ranch dressing, you’re going to find a salad that suits your taste buds. You can also hit up the stylish bar. The eatery offers cocktails and wine along with an obsessively curated selection of craft brews available on tap by the glass or by the pitcher. Class up your drinking experience further with a serving of conservas (specialty canned goods that have taken the Spanish culinary scene by storm), house pickles or a stellar cheese plate. Barbaro is what you make of it. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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ITALIAN Aldino Cucina Italiana Located at the popular intersection of 1604 and Blanco, this premiere Italian restaurant offers Tuscan tastes reminiscent of the countryside of northern Italy, with homemade pastas and fresh seafood. Also known for their energetic happy hour crowd and impeccable wine list selection. 1203 N Loop 1604 W, (210) 340-0000, aldinos.com Aldo’s Ristorante Italiano Serving salads and pasta, complimented by grilled trout, chicken piccata and other classical Italian entrees, Aldo’s Italian Ristorante offers fine dining and European flair. A lovely atmosphere only enhances the food. A true class act, from start to finish. 8539 Fredericksburg, (210) 696-2536, aldos.us Capparelli’s on Main Smack dab in the center of Monte Vista, this charming neighborhood nook serves up traditional Italian fare with hearty pizzas and an unbeatable house salad. Try the chicken parmigiana sandwich for lunch. 2524 N Main, (210) 735-5757, capparellisonmain.com
Made with Fresh Herbs & Always Stone Baked If you’re looking for a local eatery where you can bring the kids or come for your lunch break, you’ve come to the right place! At Tank’s Pizza, we pride ourselves in preparing our food with fresh ingredients from our hand-tossed dough, to our fresh veggies, and service that comes with a personal touch
Il Sogno Osteria Andrew Weissman’s take on casual “four-star” Italian dining combines sophisticated presentation with hearty dishes. The wild boar with pasta and the oven-roasted chicken with truffled mashed potatoes are but two examples of the treats in store. Don’t skip the antipasti bar, either, and ask for recommendations from the regional wine list. 200 E Grayson, (210) 223-3900 La Focaccia Italian Grill Stop by this Southtown eatery on a weekend evening for soothing piano styling paired with a Franco-American meal. 800 S Alamo, (210) 223-5353, lafocaccia-italian-grill.com Lorenzo’s Italian Restaurant Old school in a good way, Lorenzo’s is as authentic as it gets, serving Italian classics dating back to 1966. Try the satisfying lasagna and baked ziti. 8032 Fredericksburg, (210) 692-9900, lorenzos.info Luce Ristorante e Enoteca Authentic Italian cuisine and wine is the passion of Neapolitan owner and chef Joe Buonincontri, who brings family recipes and tastes from his travels to Italy back to his wine-centric restaurant. Enoteca means wine library—and fittingly, the walls of Luce are lined with bottles, proffering over 125 choices of viticulture’s best. 11255 Huebner, (210) 561-9700, lucesanantonio.com
1917 N. New Braunfels SATX 78208 Located outside the gate of Fort Sam Houston Near N. New Braunfels and Grayson
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Nosh Luca Della Casa earned his whites at Le Rêve and Il Sogno, and the Italian-inflected results show. Small-plate standouts include ravioli du jour, the tomato, mozzarella and oregano arancini and the individual fire-grilled pizzas. Don’t forget about the awesome selection of craft beers. 1133 Austin Hwy, (210) 824-8686, noshsa.com Paesanos Joe Cosniac’s original Lincoln Heights heir serves the
$10.99 LARGE 16”
ITALIAN signature breaded, garlicky Shrimp Paesano, a meaty eggplant parmigiana, and if the devotees are to be believed, one of the best steaks in town. Don’t forget: Paesanos is consistently voted one of the best Italian restaurants in town by Current readers. Multiple locations, paesanos.com
ONE TOPPING
Piatti Although it’s a chain, Piatti’s gives local ingredients a strong role in its menu. Try the Pollo alla Mattone, succulent and fat with flavor, and the baked Texas goat cheese served with Kalamata olives, a veritable hymn to the humble cabra. Don’t fret, Northwest eaters: A second San Antonio Piatti just opened at Eilan. Multiple locations, piatti.com Piccolo’s Italian Restaurant With a deliciously formless lasagna and a shrimp pasta that seems oddly reminiscent of other offerings in town, Piccolo’s is one of those restaurants that provide an Italian experience at a very reasonable price, if the diner is willing to meet the kitchen halfway. 5703 Evers, (210) 647-5524 Rossini Italian Bistro This simple but well-executed Italian cuisine enhances a menu that changes weekly. Bet on the appetizer salads, lamb and fish dishes from this Castle Hills staple. 2195 NW Military, (210) 615-7270, rossinibistro.com Tré Trattoria Jason Dady’s penultimate outing–rustic, plentiful Italian served parkside on Broadway or downtown at the Fairmount Hotel–succeeds with authentic salumi, gnocchi and castiron griddled pizzas. Multiple locations, tretrattoria.com Tribeca di Olmos Texan ingredients meet Italian favorites in a stellar, yet cursed, location. Lifelong restaurateur Jean-Francois Poujol is adding new life to the Olmos Park area within this 5,000 square-foot restaurant with affordable menu items that include a crowd-pleasing house-made Italian sausage pizza, expertly-seasoned calamari, Texas-sized entrees and sinful desserts. 4331 McCullough, (210) 320-0698, tribecadiolmos.com Zocca at Westin Riverwalk Hotel Rustic and contemporary Italian collide at this River Walk restaurant. The pastas and desserts are especially good. A standout on Zocca’s updated menu is the grilled salmon served with saffron-infused sauce and grilled asparagus. 420 W Market, (210) 444-6070, zoccariverwalk.com
GREAT DINE-IN ATMOSPHERE
CARRY-OUT OR DELIVERY 5999 DeZavala Dr. Post Office Center 210.691.2070
10555 Culebra Rd. Just inside 1604 210.256.7663
12411 Bandera Rd. Just outside 1604 210.695.9933
www.romespizza.com
™
SERVING SAN ANTONIO SINCE 1966 COZY, COMFY & PURELY ITALIAN!
“Vita, Amore e Salute”
SERVING THE ITALIAN CLASSICS!
Lasagna, Veal, Chicken, Steaks, Pizza, Pasta, Subs, Salads, Homemade Desserts, Great Wines And More!
Pizza Deco Pizzeria Italian-style pizza and live music in the up-and-coming Deco District just north of downtown, served in a funky date-night setting. Savory meatballs, wings and weekend lunch (and brunch!) specials expand the options at this cute eatery just across the way from the Woodlawn Theater. Dinner and a show? Now you know. 1815 Fredericksburg, (210) 732-3326, decopizza.com
DINE IN. TAKE-OUT. DELIVERY. CATERING.
8032 Fredericksburg @ Medical | 692-9900 | lorenzos.info sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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ITALIAN Dough Pizzeria Napoletana Chef Doug Horn’s recently earned a certificate of authenticity from the Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani, so trust that the crisp-crust pies coming out of the woodburning oven are the real deal. A slew of worthy contenders have recently upped SA’s pizza scene, but this mainstay still sets the standard. Get there early and order the burrata. 6989 Blanco, (210) 979-6565, doughpizzeria.com Florio’s Pizza Italy? Fuhgeddaboudit—this is the real stuff, from New Jersey since 1980. There’s Bianca, of course, and the red Lodi has plenty of garlic atop the light base of cheese and thin tomato sauce, topped on a crust that is magically light and crisp. 7701 Broadway, (210) 805-8646, floriospizza.com Gallo Pizzeria The West Side joint touts its über-spicy Diablo pizza with ghost chiles, but can more easily crow about the betterbalanced Gallo pizza, the good Greek salad and exceptional brownies. 164 Castroville, (210) 264-0077, gallopizzeria.com Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria Thanks to a water-modification system, this Brooklynbased pizza franchise delivers a unique thin crust that’s hard to find outside greater NYC. Visit locations at the Quarry and La Cantera and go nuts with the combination possibilities: three sauce options (red, white and pesto) and 20 toppings. Multiple locations, grimaldispizzeria.com Ray’s Pizzaria Check the daily lunch and dinner specials at this authentic New York-style pizzeria. Calzones, stromboli and Italian entrees like baked ziti, served with cheesy garlic bread, satisfy even the hungriest diner. Indulge in the fried artichokes with a tangy dipping sauce. Multiple locations, rayspizzaria.com Rome’s Pizza Founded in 1986, now with several locations, Rome’s cozy atmosphere and gourmet Italian cuisine have satisfied two generations. Our fave: Milennium 3, pizza with with organic basil pesto sauce, mozzarella, rosemary roasted new potatoes, spinach, seasoned chicken and gorgonzola cheese. Multiple locations. romespizza.com Sorrento Ristorante e Pizzeria Since 2001, the Ciccone family has prepared tasty pizza, seafood and pasta out of their Alamo Heights kitchen. They specialize in cuisine from the south of Italy including a time-honored Lasagna Della Casa topped with a house pink sauce and a savory Pollo Alla Sorrento with sautéed artichokes, asparagus, fresh tomatoes and white wine. 5146 Broadway, (210) 824-0055, sorrentopizzeria.com. Tank’s Pizza Owner Nick Mason gives each pizza a personal touch. Known for its use of fresh veggies, light hand-tossed dough, this family-owned joint is great for any occasion. Don’t miss the wings and the calzones. 1917 N New Braunfels, (210) 223-8265, tankspizza.com 70
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4003 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209, at the Boardwalk on Broadway • 210.805.0333 401 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205, at the historic The Fairmount Hotel • 210.223.0401
Lunch Mon-Fri 11:30 am-2:00 pm
Dinner Mon-Sat 4:30 pm-10 pm
Authentic Italian Cuisine Extensive Italian & Californian Wine List HAPPY HOUR : Mon-Sat 4:30-7:00pm
11255 Huebner road | lucesanantonio.com | 210.561.9700
paytonphotography.com
MARKET Ripe:
A Spirited Market 17103 La Cantera Pkwy, (210) 598-2900, eilanhotel.com/ripe-farmersmarket.aspx Markets on the North Side of town can be hard to love, but one can’t expect folks to make the trek downtown every weekend for fresh fruits and veggies. So chef Stephan Pyles decided to bring the market to those of the Loopland persuasion. Pyles first made a splash on the culinary scene in the ’80s with his take on the then newly-created Southwestern cuisine. Now the chef is helping promote farmers markets north of 1604 with his latest creation, Ripe: A Spirited Market. But he couldn’t go at it alone. Pyles secured the help of Austin’s James Beard award-winning cookbook author Paula Dishbrowe to curate the more than 40 vendors that bring in vegetables, artisan cheeses, free-range eggs, flowers, food trucks, crafts and ready-to-eat foods every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. What sets this market apart is two-fold: a trek up I-10 and the stair-happy scenery of Eilan. You’ll find a few market mainstays: sweet, citrusy drinks from The Lemonade Company; fluffy pastries via Sol y Luna Baking Company and gluten-free baked goods like the moist pumpkin loaf from CrepeLandia. These stands all double their efforts at other markets throughout town, sometimes simultaneously as is the case of the popular CrepeLandia. Bring several reusable bags– you’ll need them. How else are you going to stock up on treats for Fido from PAWsitively Sweet Bakery, honey from Rick the Beekeper, French macs from Oh Petit Macarons or heavenly naan from Lamba’s Royal Indian Foods? As one of the most extensive markets around town that features producers from SA to Austin and back, it’d be a shame not to pay Ripe a visit. 72
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A peek at what Ripe has to offer
MARKET Alamo Olive Oil Co.
Melissa Guerra
With an Alamo Heights location coming soon, it’s safe to say people love this store. What’s not to love about a purveyor that boasts an upscale tasting room, and a slew of products that include olives, aged balsamic vinegar straight from Italy and several flavors of olive oil? The olive oil skin care products and olive wood boards and utensils make great gifts. North Star Mall, 7400 San Pedro, (210) 525-1200, alamooliveoil.com
The go-to Latin American culture destination for kitchen & tableware, gourmet food, gifts, apparel, jewelry and folk art. 303 Pearl Pkwy, Ste 104, (210) 293-3983
Koch Ranches Gourmet Country Store Pick up humanely raised, 100-percent grass-fed beef and locally grown vegetables in one central location. Animal Welfare Approved and a member of Go Texan, the store also supplies honey, coffee, teas, salsas, pickled vegetables and olive oil from Texan producers. 2114 Mannix, (210) 858-9795, kochranches.net
Olmos Basin Farmers Market Skip the crowds and visit with surrounding ranchers with an assortment of jams, jellies and produce from San Antonio and Natalia farmers. Olmos Basin between San Pedro and McCullough, (210) 842-3136, sanantoniofarmersmarket.org, Tuesdays and Saturdays, 7:30am-1pm
Pearl Farmers Market The Ol’ Faithful of farmers markets around town, you’re bound to find something tasty at the Pearl. Grab a crepe from Crepelandia, pick some peppers from Martinez Farms or sample whatever’s cooking under the demo tent. Pearl Brewery, 312 Pearl Pkwy, atpearl.com/farmers_market, Saturdays, 9am-1pm
Legacy Food Market A new addition to the Hill Country Farmers Market Association, the market nearly doubled in size after the merger. More than 30 vendors gather to provide produce, eggs, honey, pastries, soaps and more. Located in the Legacy shopping center north of Starbucks, (210) 9959553, hillcountryfarmersmarket.org, Saturdays, 10am-3pm
Quarry Farmers & Ranchers Market
Main Plaza Farmers Market Working downtown? Grab a healthy bite from the SA Food Banks’ own Catalyst Catering, or pick up essentials from handful of vendors with veggies, fruits and more. 115 Main Plaza, (210) 431-8421, safoodbank. org, Tuesdays, 10am-1pm
Sleep is for babies. Wake up bright and early on Sundays and get to this market. Produce? Check. Homemade doggie treats from Katie’s Jar? Check. Hot guacabolas (fried avocado balls) from Winner Winner Chicken Dinner food truck? Check. Basically, you’re going to find just about everything you need to make real meals and then some. Vendors include Revolucion Coffee + Juice, Humble House Foods, Ming’s Thing, Patty’s Petal’s and Sam’s Salmon. 255 E Basse in front of Whole Foods, 210-722-5077, quarryfarmersmarket.com, Sundays, 9am-1pm
Gourmet
K R
Cou ntry Store Simply Fresh Texas Foods
At Koch Ranches, we take great pride in producing premium, nutritious 100% grassfed meats raised on our family ranch. Our animals are raised without any growth hormones, antibiotics or other chemicals.
NATURE INTEN KE D LI
1R0AS0S% FED G
J
US
TL
EN
DE
MEATS
D
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JUS T
BY KOCH RANCHES
I K E N AT U R E
T IN
Beef • Lamb • Goat • Venison • Wild Boar • Jerky • Fresh Sausage Locally Grown Fresh Produce • Jellies & Preserves • Salsas • Pickles & Olives Pastas • Sauces • Teas, Coffee and more!
K R
Koch Ranches Quality Grass-Fed Meats
2114 Mannix Drive (Near Broadway & Loop 410) • 210.858.9795 • GourmetCountryStore.com sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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MEXICAN The Fruteria 1401 S Flores, (210) 251-3104, thefruiteria.com This isn’t your run-of-the-mill fruteria. Since opening inside the Steel House Lofts buildings in early 2013, chef Johnny Hernandez’s Fruteria has made a home for itself in the hearts of the Southtown crowd, as well as those gourmands looking for an extra touch of Mexico. A fruteria by day, guests won’t find stacks of fruit (unless it’s being used to infuse liquors, more on this later) to douse with chile y limon. Instead, the fruits are available in liquid form, blended to perfection, whether you’re adding them to your diet via the aguas frescas made with seasonal fruits or the jugos such as the Verde with orange juice, nopal, grapefruit, pineapple, celery and parsley. Favorites include the Texan, with cantaloupe, orange juice, strawberries and pears and the luscious Buenos Dias made with milk, bananas, eggs (that’s 74
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Aguas y jugos at The Fruteria
right), oats and honey. It’d be a shame to just get a juice, though. Breakfast features tortas such as the savory Sincronizada, thin tostadas like La Azteca and chilaquiles con pollo. Lunch makes midday versions of those tortas and tostadas with an interior Mexican slant like puerco pibil, tuna yuateca and chicken tinga, plus a healthy dose of salads. The real fun starts as the sun goes down, when the Fruteria turns into a botanero. The late-night crowd can enjoy un poquito de todo with botanas that include seasoned nuts and playful guacamoles. Or mix things up with the chiles rellenos with pork, crab or en nogada. Try a rich cazuelita of puerco en mole blanco—made for sharing, this dish might bring out the selfish diner out of you. Don’t miss out on the drinks. Chef’s curated a sizable tequila and mescal list used to create fruteria-inspired, handcrafted spins on cocktail classics like the citrusy Moji-Mex and the Marquitos with tamarind, pineapple, lime juice, Monte Alban Blanco tequila and a splash of grapefruit soda. Thirsty yet?
2318 N Loop 1604 West • San Antonio, Texas 78248 • DelFuegosTX.com
MEXICAN Ácenar Rosario’s owner Lisa Wong does it again with vivid décor and haute Tex-Mex paired with romantic riverside seating and the bar’s dance floor sizzles on weekends. Try the grilled shrimp tacos and the citrus ensalada and find out why Acenar was voted No. 2 Best River Walk restaurant in our 2013 Best of San Antonio readers poll. 146 E Houston, (210) 222-2362, acenar.com
Alamo Barbacoa Chef-owner Cesar Perez is responsible for some of San Antonio’s premier barbacoa. Come hungry, the menu at this Deco District spot includes breakfast tacos, flautas, a 4-ounce rib eye steak Tampiqueno with ranchero sauce (paired with a beef enchilada, to boot!) and, of course, menudo available Saturdays and Sundays. 814 West Ave., (210) 236-8656, alamobarbacoa.com
Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine Stone Oak Blanca Aldaco has taken her Sunset Station sizzle north to convert the Loopland masses with crema al cilantro and signature avocado margaritas. The now-ubiquitous tres leches cake was introduced to San Antonio by Blanca and her mother years ago, and the Kahlua Mocha variant is as moist and substantial as ever. 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy, (210) 494-0561, aldacos-stoneoak.com
Bahia Azul Nayarit invades San Antonio: Mexico’s Pacific coast brings zesty seafood dishes to Artisans Alley. Don’t miss the ceviche and mesquite-grilled fish in regional chili flavors. 555 W Bitters, (210) 549-2623, bahiaazulsa.com
Barriba Cantina Barriba’s colorfully chaotic space seems designed to appeal primarily to the tourist trade. While prices sit firmly in the downtown range—even chips and salsa will set you back a few bucks—free live music nightly and the Super Happy Hour Tuesdays (when the chips and salsa are free and margs are $4 from 6-9 p.m.) make Barriba one of the more local-friendly spots in the area. The beefy Del Rey enchies and tacos get high marks. 111 W Crockett, Ste 214, (210) 228-9876, BarribaCantina.com
Blanco Café This anchor of the homegrown chain serves massive TexMex portions to happy weekend crowds. The just-right-greasy enchiladas are a fave of Current readers. Multiple locations, blancocafe.net
Cantina del Rio Yep, there’s great Mexican food and award winning margaritas in Historic Gruene. Fashioned after a South Texas icehouse, the spot fires up loaded nachos, a nostalgic bean burger, meaty enchiladas, tacos and a Gruene chili burger. Check out the spread during your next visit. 1299 Gruene (New Braunfels), (830) 515-1950, cantinagruene.com
Cascabel Mexican Patio Cascabel will win you over somewhere between the Sharpieriddled walls and the nopal salad. The tiny South St. Mary’s spot offers an intriguing alternative to taqueria fare, with recipes from southern Mexico and light touches like silver napkin rings that 76
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THE REAL MEXICAN CANTINA & RESTAURANT
Hours: Mon-Tue 10 am - 11 pm Wed-Sat 11 am - 12 am Sun 10 am - 10 pm
17776 Blanco Rd San Antonio, TX 78232 (210) 479-1210 latequileradelpatron.com
MEXICAN set it apart from the Tex-Mex crowd. Don’t miss the tender, spicy cochinita pibil. 1000 S St Mary’s, (210) 212-6456
Chacho’s The Monster Kong Nachos are just ridiculous—unbelievably huge portions with enough calories to feed small armies and/or the average San Antonian. They’re loaded with four different types of meat: chicken and beef fajitas, shredded chicken and picadillo, and the quality is surprisingly good. Wash it down with a top-shelf marg. Multiple locations, chachos.com
Daniel’s Café The food at Daniel’s is a welcome throwback: rich refried beans, perfect corn tortillas, tasty asada smothered in grilled onions, addictive chorizo. Even the rice, often a throwaway, is flavorful, and the milanesa is a contender for best in town. 5008 S Presa, (210) 533-6222
Del Fuegos Char Grill & Cantina Del
Beyond Delicious Beyond Authentic
y p p a H Hourri.
Mon.-F 4-7pm 3810 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 210.822.3797 picantegrill.com 78
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Amorcitos Cantina is long gone, but Del Guegos is a hopping Northside favorite these days. The locally owned and operated business offers multiple atmospheres in which to enjoy quality Tex-Mex for lunch, dinner and brunch. Try the tranquil courtyard or the open-air patio bar. 2318 North Loop 1604 W, (210) 493-2204, delfuegostx.com
El 7 Mares Seafood Restaurant This place is known for their ceviche, and their Huachinango, a red snapper served fried, grilled, or marinated with garlic or spices. It’s served with rice, salad, french fries and a garlic soup. 3831 W Commerce, (210) 436-6056
El Milagrito El Milagrito’s cheese enchiladas are titans of Tex-Mex, topped with good, chunky gravy that indicates Milagrito’s guisada is also a cut above. But don’t stop there: the tortas and huaraches are not to be missed. The breakfast menu, served all day, merits a try, too. 521 E Woodlawn, (210) 737-8646
Ernesto’s Mexican Specialties The inventive French-Mex sauces (try the jicama, lime and cilantro combo) and fresh fish dishes outshine their surroundings at this neighborhood strip-mall staple. Ernesto’s was also recognized by Bon Appetit for its fresh-as-heck oysters. 2559 Jackson Keller, (210) 344-1248, ernestosgourmet.com
Guajillo’s Billed as SA’s only Mexico City kitchen, the entrees here are healthier and less Tex than Mex by any standards. Try the calabaza con mole verde, a sauce made with pumpkin seeds, cilantro and Serrano peppers. The chips, salsa, and desserts (arroz con leche, anyone?) are also worth shot. 1001 NW Loop 410, (210) 3444119, guajillos.com
La Choza Mexican Restaurant The exterior is a little dumpy, sure, but the food is puro Mexico and right on. Try the hearty huaraches, the superior chickenfilled sopes, the earthy, sauced-steak molcajete plate and the subtle enchiladas verdes. 12151 Jones Maltsberger, (210) 490-5665
MEXICAN
La Fonda on Main Monte Vista residents still flock to this institution for both traditional and forward-thinking Mexican fare. The specials are almost always worth a try, but if you’re a creature of habit, the duck or fish tacos or mole enchiladas are deliciously dependable. Sit outside whenever possible and put it on your short list for brunch spots. 2415 Main, (210) 733-0621, lafondaonmain.com
La Fogata There are several reasons to visit La Fogata: the arboreal wonderland of a patio, the tequila-laden margaritas, the friendly staff, the light starters, the hearty enchiladas…should we go on? 2427 Vance Jackson, (210) 340-1337, lafogata.com
▲ La Gloria Winner of 2013’s Best Ceviche poll, La Gloria also scores points with its tacos de alambre and tortas locals. The molcajete dishes are rich and satisfying, and the ceviches fresh and tangy. Enjoy a house margarita on the icehouse’s airy patio, and don’t skip the camarones agua chile or the coconut flan. 100 E Grayson, (210) 267-9040, lagloriaicehouse.com
La Hacienda de los Barrios A Barrios Family creation, there’s much to be said about La Hacienda’s food. Try the time-tested standbys such as the cabrito en salsa and the Cortadillo Zuazua style, a semi-stew of tenderloin. For dessert, indulge in an empanada filled with guava paste and cream cheese. 18747 Red Land, (210) 497-8000, lhdlb.com
La Huasteca #2 There are outposts, both named La Huasteca #2, on West Hildebrand and North Zarzamora. The menudo (served daily) didn’t disappoint at either location: The tripe, though not of the honeycomb variety, was incredibly tender. Pick up a pack of warm tortillas and see if those suckers make it through the drive home. 2218 N Zarzamora; 1738 W Hildebrand, (210) 738-8777
La Michoacana #5 This location on North Flores boasts a carniceria, panaderia, fruteria and more. The taqueria may be the chain’s strong suit; the tacos can be spectacular, especially creations like chicharron en 80
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MEXICAN salsa verde and calabacita con puerco. 1224 N Flores, (210) 2233802, lamichoacanameatmarket.com
La Tequilera del Patron This isn’t Tex-Mex. How does a tender serving of Chamorro de Puerco, savory enchiladas de mole or technique-driven chiles en nogada sound? Stop by and enjoy the traditional fare on the back patio. 17776 Blanco, (210) 479-1247, latequileradelpatron.com
Lisa’s Mexican Restaurant Lisa’s comforts with a hearty, rich pozole, a tasty lengua guisada and famous enchilladas. Tripas lovers will find it in both parrillada and menudo form. 815 Bandera, (210) 433-2531, lisasmexican.com
Los Barrios One of San Antonio’s most beloved Mexican restaurants (yes, that is saying a lot), Los Barrios’ exhaustive menu includes items like “the world’s only gourmet sour nachos,” 16 different Mexican dinner plates and several arguably more interesting dishes like the Nuevo Leon specialty Cortadillo Zuazua Style, juicy beef tenderloin stewed with veggies and spices. 4223 Blanco, (210) 732-6017
Mon-Thu: 11a-11p | Fri-Sat: 11a-12a | Sun: 12p-9p Closed Tuesdays
1012 N. Flores, San Antonio, Texas 78212 (210) 277-7174 • tapsytapas.com
Los Robertos Taco Shop Whether you’re picking up for breakfast or stumbling in after a barhop, this popular 24-hour destination adds California influence to SA with killer burritos, including the yummy over-the-top chile-relleno version, and at least six salsas. The tortas are also delicious, especially the carnitas deshebradas. Multiple locations, losrobertostacoshop.com
Mary Lou’s Café Expect robust and fresh down-home dishes from this neighborhood joint. The enchiladas verdes and beans and rice are well above average, but ask for the salsa verde over the house dip. Forgo a bit of sleep for a couple of these substantial breakfast tacos on fresh and fluffy flour tortillas. 4405 McCullough, (210) 396-7909, mitierracafe.com
Best Breakfast Tacos
Live
Best Of 2009 Reader’s Choice Best Breakfast tacos
Best Breakfast Tacos
Outline
Metro Basilica 2 Taco truck fare inspired more by DF than SA. Branch out to less familiar menu items like mulita (meat and cheese sandwiched between two thick masa tortillas), lengua and tripas, or stick with tried-and-true chicken quesadillas and asada tacos. 7627 Culebra, Ste 105, (210) 680-1412
Mi Tierra Restaurant & Bakery For those in the know, Mi Tierra is truly a wonder. The panaderia at the entrance alerts that this is the real deal. Then there’s the typical fare including some of the best menudo in town. An institution since its 1941 founding, Mi Tierra is one of the few places still open 24/7, holidays included. 218 Produce Row, (210) 225-1262
Original Donut Shop/Cocina Mexicana This Fredericksburg Road institution is known for good breakfast tacos and outstanding doughnuts, but get there early. The dual drive-thru lanes pack cars a block up Fred, but the Current recommends eating in the diner-like pastry area. Try the cinnamon-filled bear claw–that’s big enough to share. 3307 Fredericksburg, (210) 734-5661
145 E. HILDEBRAND & McCULLOUGH 210.822.9533 • TACOTACOSA.COM sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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MEXICAN
The Original Mexican
SERVING SAN ANTONIO since 1969
Named for the “oldest Mexican restaurant in the United States,” this 24-hour River Walk spot capitalizes on a hungry touristy and late night crowd. The traditional Mexican menu features standards like quesadillas and enchiladas, but the margaritas and the river view are the star attractions. 528 Riverwalk, (210) 224-9951, originalmexican.com
Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine A perennial favorite in our Best of polls for enchiladas and guacamole, Paloma Blanca showcases hacienda-inspired architecture and interior Mexican eats for an elevated dining experience. The menu offers traditional and updated versions of Mexican favorites, with standouts including the pollo asado, tacos al pastor and shrimp fajitas. Choose from a variety of margaritas to complement your meal, and don’t miss out on the signature pastel de tres leches for dessert. 5800 Broadway, (210) 822-6151, palomablanca.net
Palenque Grill
Mon-Sat 5:30am-3pm • Sun 7am-3pm 521 E. Woodlawn at St. Mary’s 210.737.8646 •
San Antonio's BEST barbacoa
Breakfast &
Daily Lunch
Specials
Tuesday - sunday 7 am - 2 pm
Closed Mondays
From the makers of Pollo Loco and Taco Palenque, Palenque Grill’s dishing up traditional dishes to the Sonterrey set. Try the lengua and coastal creations inspired by the Pacific Mexican coast that are worth a try. Don’t get bogged down in the overly saucy high-dollar dishes, though, what Palenque does best is the basics. 389 N Loop 1604 W, (210) 545-7600, palenquegrill.com
Pancho’s Mexican Buffet Take your brothers, sisters, ma, pa, tias and tios to this Southwestern more-is-more chain. Raise the teensy flags for more of Pancho’s cinnamon-sugar-sprinkled sopapillas, a Current readers’ favorite. 8300 Marbach, (210) 673-2930
Perico’s Mexican Cuisine The hacienda-style chain has locations off Bandera, in Huebner Oaks and Sonterra, but you’ll find standard Tex-Mex at any stop. The calabacita con pollo is a standout. Multiple locations, pericosgrill.com
Picante Grill The Zagat-rated Broadway is an atypical dining spot that has become a popular location for San Antonians willing to experiment beyond the confines of everyday Tex-Mex. Favorites include the chile en nogada, cochinita pibil, smoky cabrito and the birria, a marinated leg of lamb in ancho pepper, wrapped in a banana leaf and slow-cooked to perfection. 3810 Broadway, (210) 822-3797, picantegrill.com
Ray’s Drive Inn Puffy tacos and a certain San Antonio je ne sais quoi are the draws at this Westside establishment. Portions are large (bring the whole family), but remember to bring cash; our critics recommend the brisket and guacamole puffy tacos. 822 SW 19th, (210) 4327171, raysdriveinn.net
Rosario’s Restaurant y Cantina
814 West Avenue San Antonio, TX 78201 210-236-8656 • alamobarbacoa.com 82
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Lisa Wong’s other baby is a staple with the Castros and other power lunch-goers. The bright lights, big city cantina concept— aided by lots of concrete and a neon-lit faux palapa—and Tex-Mex
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P. (210) 490.2011 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy, Ste. 803 @ Huebner Rd. San Antonio, Tx. 78258 Sun-Thu 7:00a - 3:00p. Fri & Sat 7:00a - 9:30p. VidaMiaCuisine.com
MEXICAN Taqueria Datapoint The food hasn’t lost its late-night street charms at this taco-truckturned-restaurant. Current readers say you must try the gorditas, and our critics recommend the mini asada taquitos and chicken torta. 4063 Medical, (210) 615-3644
Taqueria El Chilaquil Our secret late-night spot, we come here for al pastor and carnitas mini tacos and giant schooners of Dos Equis after evenings out downtown, but we stay for the atmosphere, which may include karaoke, lounge singers, or drag shows depending on the night. 1821 W Commerce, (210) 226-5410
Taqueria Guadalajara #1 Take comfort in surroundings that are puro San Antonio–Taqueria Guadalajara is Tex-Mex in a time capsule with all of the traditional favorites. The carne al pastor is a blend that rocks, as the pork, beef and onions are combined in perfect proportions. 2702 Roosevelt, (210) 532-5500
add a certain buzzy feel to Southtown. Try the stellar fish tacos or the Mexican Caesar Salad with spinach, toasted pepitas, fried corn chips, roasted red peppers, tossed in a creamy chipotle dressing. 910 S Alamo, (210) 223-1806, rosariossa.com
Sazo’s Latin Grill Not a dull moment in this bright, hotel eatery. Try the famous chicken tortilla soup or the tasty lump crab salad. Marriott Rivercenter, 101 Bowie, (210) 223-1000, sazoslatingrill.com
Taco Haven A Southtown staple for more than 30 years, the menu has expanded to include a few Tex-American dishes such as chicken-fried steak and burgers. But the award-winning infamous tacos such as the Torres Special: refrieds, bacon and guacamole, are still the biggest draw. Be prepared for a wait on Saturdays and Sundays. Multiple locations, tacohaven.info
Taco House In 2013, our critic proclaimed he never had better puffy tacos than the ones he found at this unassuming breakfast and lunch joint. He also highly recommended the arroz con pollo, which is so good that the weekly Wednesday special often sells out by noon. 6307 San Pedro, (210) 341-3136
▲ Taco Taco A plethora of choices here but the best thing to order is of course, the namesake: tacos of all kinds, served on piping hot, homemade corn or flour tortillas. This little Mexican restaurant has received tons of buzz from national publications, and for good reason. Conveniently located in Olmos Park, Taco Taco swept six categories in the Current’s 2013’s Best of poll winning best barbacoa, salsa, breakfast taco, fajitas, enchiladas, menudo and guacamole. 145 E Hildebrand, (210) 8229533, tacotacosa.com
Taqueria Chapala Jalisco This Tobin Hill gem will eventually relocate to a brand new building kitty-corner from the original building, but we hope the breakfast tacos and delish lunch specials don’t take a hit. 1819 McCullough, (210) 735-5352
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Vallarta Alamo Heights Seafood is far from the emphasis at the Broadway location; carnes asadas and fajitas abound. We nevertheless recommend that you dive into the shrimp cocktail and quesadillas de camaron. 8234 Broadway (210) 829-0180
Tiago’s Cabo Grille Inspired by the flavors of Cabo San Lucas, the food here is light, fresh, and flavorful. A spin on the traditional Mexican flavors, this coastal cuisine includes such fare as fire grilled skewers and street vendorstyle tacos. Daily lunch specials and signature drinks, like the San Lucas Breeze, put Tiago’s a notch above the rest. Multiple locations, tiagoscabogrille.com
Tito’s Restaurant The art-lined walls are the perfect background for a variety of breakfast options and an express lunch for those who work in the King William area. Try the cilantro cream enchiladas and stop by for happy hour for handmade margaritas made with 100 percent agave. 955 S Alamo, (210) 212-8226, titosrestaurant.com
Urban Taco The Quarry location of this Dallas-based chain might be the only place in town you can ditch the tortilla in favor of a crisp lettuce wrap. Urban Taco puts a modern spin on Mexican dining with small but flavorful tacos made with fresh ingredients, including tasty red snapper, seared ahi tuna and chile-rubbed pork. 290 E Basse, Ste 105, (210) 332-5149, urban-taco.com
Vida Mia Vida Mia is a chain from Monterrey that’s all gussied up in cute graphics and festive colors. The torta de pierna (“Mexico’s most eaten sandwich”) and ceviches are winners. 19141 Stone Oak, Ste 803, (210) 490-2011, vidamiacuisine.com
Viola’s Ventanas The newest effort from the Barrios family pays tribute to mother Viola, who started the Los Barrios legend in 1979. Under her portrait, the staff dishes out Los Barrios favorites and a smattering of site-specific dishes like fideo. 9660 Westover Hills, (210) 684-9660, violasventanas.com
Bar Mosaico
Bar Mosaico serving Happy Hour Monday through Sunday Private Room available for any Celebration
SUNNI HAMMER
MODERN Arcade Midtown Kitchen 303 Pearl Pkwy, (210) 369-9664, arcadesatx.com The prodigal son has returned. After leaving his position under Mark Miller at Francesca’s at Sunset in the Westin La Cantera to pursue opportunities in Atlanta, Los Angeles and Oaxaca, native San Antonian Jesse Perez is back, and the Alamo City is so much better off for it. Let’s not overlook the hype surrounding Arcade months before it opened (Eater National listed the restaurant as one of its most anticipated for San Antonio). Once the doors opened in April, it was easy to see what the city had been missing. The steely eatery embodies Perez’s laidback persona. Exceptional lighting fixtures and wall shelves help give the restaurant an industrial yet breezy feel.
PEI mussels and chorizo with orangehabanero broth
As the window by the door proclaims, food fortune does indeed await. The menu varies slightly between lunch and dinner. Favorites include Perez’s take on the humble meatball, comprised of pork and beef, topped with a creamy white bean hummus, and the Arcade Burger, each bite more satisfying than the last. A visit to Arcade would be incomplete without a taste of Perez’s seafood prowess, evident in the buttery salmon over a bed of local greens or the dreamy PEI mussels with chorizo. Diners with a sweet tooth can end the night with either a slice of the sinfully rich red velvet cake or keep things light with a roasted banana stack dessert of layered phyllo crisps, salted caramel and crushed peanut. Wash it down with one of bar manager Chris Ware’s signature cocktails; any really, he’s got the magic touch. The recently rolled-out brunch menu (learn more on pp. 10) is a swanky way to start a weekend day. San Anto can consider itself fortunate Perez is back to up the ante in his home city, one bite at a time. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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Breakfast: M-F | 7a-11a Sat & Sun | 7.30a-12p Lunch: M-F | 11a-2p Dinner: Sun-Thur | 6p-10p Fri-Sat | 6p-12a
Bar Salona
try something different Riverwalk Plaza Hotel & Suites 100 Villita | 210.225.1234
MODERN
Bar Salona/Java Plaza
BIN 555
Tucked away inside the Riverwalk Plaza Hotel, Bar Salona offers a Mediterranean menu with a Southwestern kick, including plenty of vegetarian options. They are also known for their signature cocktails, such as the Jala-Coco Martini (showcased at the Current’s Cocktail event earlier this year) and a hip upscale lounge environment. 100 Villita Street, San Antonio, TX 78205, (210) 293-0034, barsalonasa.com
Jason Dady, executive chef and owner of BIN 555, offers Modern American cuisine in a small meze plates format coupled with contemporary ambiance, an intimate bar and a large patio. The winning atmosphere and five-star food bring San Antonio a new level of culinary sophistication. 555 W Bitters, (210) 496-0555, bin555.com
Biga on the Banks
Bite’s interior, with its horseshoe-shaped marble counter, glossy orange accent wall, and aubergine swivel chairs, has a retro-modern look that’s only reinforced by Astorga-Watel’s husband Damien’s riffs on popart paintings. Lobster spring rolls are said to be one of the menu’s most popular items, and the crisp cylinders are indeed packed with buttery meat. 1012 S Presa, (210) 532-2551, biterestaurantsa.com
Bruce Auden’s menu includes such Southwest-Continental dishes as chicken-fried oysters with squid-ink linguini and pancetta, and grilled Texas quail, all of which can be paired to appropriate wines by the glass from Biga’s ample list. 203 S St. Mary’s, (210) 225-0722, biga.com
▲ Bite
BIN 555 Restaurant & Wine Bar 555 W. Bitters Road at The Alley on Bitters (210) 496-0555 / www.bin555.com Lunch and Dinner Monday – Thursday 11am–11pm Friday – Saturday 11am–12am Now Open Sunday Brunch 10am–4pm
Now Booking Holiday Parties & Events
RESTAURAN T S
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MODERN
▲ Boiler House Texas Grill & Wine Garden
sustainable, local, farm to table food.
A true Texas original located at the Pearl, this wine-centric restaurant occupies the former “boiler house” which powered the adjacent brewery. The menu focuses on items from local farms and markets, with a focus on “Texas ranch-style” cuisine, and includes small plates, individual main dishes and numerous items designed for sharing–all perfectly complemented by the extensive list of wines from around the world. 312 Pearl Pkwy, Bldg 3, (210) 354-4644, boilerhousesa.com
Boudro’s A Current readers’ favorite for River Walk dining and for its renowned tableside guacamole, made fresh with plenty of spice and citrus, Boudro’s makes braving the downtown tourists fun, and the Tex-Mex bistro fare is gastronomically rewarding, too. 421 E Commerce, (210) 224-8484, boudros.com
Citrus W. Maple ST.
ingto n Av
The Clean Plate
e.
N Main Av
ST.
Lex
e.
W. Maple
Elegant River Walk dining at the Hotel Valencia with the tastes of Spain mixed with the New World. The paella buffet at lunchtime draws the downtown crowd while the luxurious atmosphere and excellent sangria attracts evening-time guests from all over town. 150 E Houston, (210) 227-9700, hotelvalencia-riverwalk.com/ citrus.htm
ve. dA ucli E. E
now serving
breakfast 7am to 11 am
open mon-fri • from 7am to 4 pm 1022 n main ave. san antonio, tX 78212 210-229-Yumm • thecleanplatesanantonio.com 90
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The Clean Plate offers sandwiches, salads and lots of yummy sides, all made with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. From spicy stuffed peppers to pork belly in a steamed bun, the Clean Plate is a healthy and delicious weekday lunch option. 1022 N Main, (210) 229-9866, thecleanplatesanantonio.com
Feast A contemporary gem on the Southtown corridor, the Feast here is for all of the senses. The modern and glamorous décor sets the scene for cocktails and a fun twist on familiar classics, like lettuce-wrapped
MODERN barbacoa, sought-after macaroni and cheese and goat cheesestuffed grape leaves. 1024 S Alamo, (210) 354-1024, feastsa.com
The Grill at Leon Springs Long live Thierry Burkle’s take on Hill Country eats. This restaurant serves updated, casual continental fare (with Asian accents) in a classy country kitchen. Don’t miss the brunch. 24116 IH-10 W, (210) 698-8797, leonspringsgrill.com
Las Canarias Chef John Brand has stepped up the service and menu at Las Canarias, and the New American menu (featuring Alaskan king salmon and chateaubriand) in this River Walk setting makes for a romantic dinner or escapist lunch. The Omni La Mansion del Rio Hotel, 112 College, (210) 518-1000, omnihotels.com
Liberty Bar The tilted building is but a faint memory. This salmon-tinged Southtown eatery is rich in history and locally sourced menu items, from the hefty bread and creative appetizers to the lightly charred quail in piquant green mole and Virginia Green’s chocolate cake. Stop by on Monday’s for half-off bottles of wine. 1111 S Alamo, (210) 227-1187, liberty-bar.com
Limestone Grille at Ye Kendall Inn The pretty, rustic setting suits a sometimes stuffy Old World menu, but contemporary fare is available, too: smoke-roasted beef short ribs, yellowfin tuna nachos, Texas gulf shrimp and grits, as well as a surprising amount of gluten-free options. 128 W Blanco, Boerne, (830) 249-9954, yekendallinn.com
Mariposa Perched on the second floor of Neiman Marcus, Mariposa’s brightly lit, mid-century-modern dining room offers ladies who shop and lunch a refined respite. Indulge in the simple generosity of a fresh popover and demitasse of chicken broth to the buttery seared ahi tuna salad. Neiman Marcus, 15900 La Cantera Pkwy, (210) 694-3550
Restaurant Gwendolyn Old is new again. SA’s pristine locavore has added a la carte options to their prix-fixe offerings, but we still prefer the daily chefdesigned meal of locally sourced organic fare. Stop by on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. for discounted tasting menus, one of the best deals in town. 152 E Pecan, Ste 100, (210) 222-1849, restaurantswendolyn.com
Silo Elevated Cuisine An elegant update on shrimp and grits and signature chickenfried oysters are among the favored dishes at this restaurant and bar. Multiple locations, siloelevatedcuisine.com
Taps y Tapas This adorable new modern Mexican restaurant in 5 Points serves up Tortas Three Ways (cochinita pibil, spicy pork carnitas and a luxurious estilo Jalisco with steak asada or chicken), Tacos Three Ways (al pastor, asada and fish tacos), two types of empanadas, a vegetarian arroz negro risotto, loaded kale salad and more. Enjoy any of the 24 beers on tap on the shaded front or back patio. 1012 N Flores, (210) 277-7174 sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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DAVID RANGEL
PUB Friendly Spot 943 S Alamo, (210) 224-2337, facebook.com/TheFriendlySpot Bar food is tricky. With the growing appeal of craft brews and culinary experiences, businesses aren’t just catering to the drunkas-hell set these days. Enter chef Scott Boone. The industry vet had previously revamped the menu at 20Nine Restaurant & Wine Bar before joining The Friendly Spot. Jody and Steve Newman had been shopping around for a kitchen leader for some time, but with three businesses to run including the latest, Tuk Tuk Tap Room, the process took several months and dozens of applicants. After meeting Boone, the Newmans knew they had
Creamy, garlicky IPA hummus
found their guy. Boone revitalized the otherwise lackluster menu while keeping fan favorites nearly intact. Jazzed-up additions include buttery French bread pizzas, garlicky IPA hummus (Boone switches up which IPA he uses–he has a lot of options to play with), a veggieloaded quesadilla and smoked barbecue pork sliders. Fret not, vegan buds. Boone’s toiling away on some vegan-friendly bar apps and salads. It’s in his care of seafood where Boone’s attention to detail really shines. Hungry friends will find bacon aioli-laden smoked trout cakes served over a bed of sweet and tangy green apple slaw rich enough for sharing. Not in the mood to be generous? Try the fish tacos. The blackened mahi-mahi comes with chipotle crema, a sprinkling of queso fresco and a kick-ass pineapple pico de gallo you can eat by the spoonful. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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PUBS Bombay Bicycle Club “We’ve been a local favorite here in San Antonio for four decades,” so says Bombay Bicycle Club and we’re bound to agree. The margaritas are big, boozy and cheap and the Scotch eggs aren’t bad either. 3506 N St. Mary’s, (210) 737-2411, bombaybicycleclubsa.com
Boneshakers Tap House and Pizzeria Located next to the Hays Street Bridge, this bicyclists’ destination is micro-brew heaven, with several Texas beers on tap. Enjoy a variety of artisan pizzas and beer ice cream and take in some live music or a ballgame on TV. 306 Austin, (210) 319-8155, boneshakersonline.com
Broadway 5050 Stop in at either location (Broadway or Wurzbach) and find live music and pure attitude. The friendly bar staff at this classic San Antonio establishment serves up great burgers and crafted cocktails. Multiple locations, broadway5050.com
Cover 3 Labeling Cover 3 as a sports bar sells the menu short. Yes, there are dozens of giant flat screen TVs lining the walls, and you can find a solid list of beers including big brands and local brews, and yeah, they offer a lot of dude-friendly food, but there’s also high-end steaks or scallops. 1806 NW Loop 1604, (210) 479-9700, cover-3.com
Freetail Brewing The house-made beers and ales are fantastic, but the signature brick-
oven pizza hits the spot, too. Stay tuned for Freetail 2 opening off Presa in the old Mission Restaurant Supply. 4035 N Loop 1604 W, Ste 105, (210) 395-4974, freetailbrewing.com
Knife and Fork Gastropub The crew here emphasizes high-quality bar eats (like the worth-everypenny $13 burger) alongside its crazy number of beers at this fun and comfy pub. 20626 Stone Oak Pkwy, (210) 497-711, Knifeforkgastropub.com
La Tuna Grill The Southtown fixture reopened its doors with a beefed up kitchen and an expanded patio. Bikers, artists and families peacefully coexist over cheap beers in the shadow of one of SA’s coolest industrial backdrops. Specialties include country-fried steak, blackened fish tacos and a garden bean burger. 100 Probandt, (210) 212-5727, latunagrill.com
Sherlock’s Baker Street Pub & Grill It’s been 12 years since Sherlock’s added its laidback vibe to SA. With a new menu in the works for the bar, we hope they keep the fish ‘n’ chips and Shepherd’s pie. Visit for some of the best drink prices in town and live music every night. 16620 281 N, (210) 572-9307, sherlockspub.com
Wurzbach Icehouse It’s absolutely a capital-b Bar in the old Texas ice house tradition, which at its simplest is a place to drink drinks with people you may or may not know. Serving wings, chicken strips, dogs and burgers, and yup, Frito Pie. 10141 Wurzbach, (210) 877-2100, wurzbachicehouse.com
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
A TEXAS GASTROPUB
Fun Bar, Serious Food Premium Draft Brews Daily Happy Hour Sunday Brunch 210.497.7111 • 20626 Stone Oak Pkwy. • (Between Evans & 281) • KnifeForkGastropub.com 94
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K
HOOKAH & BUBBLE TEA 6565 BABCOCK RD STE. #19 (AT DE ZAVALA) 210.384.2974
8002 CALLAGHAN RD STE.#105 ( AT IH 10W) 210.265.3706
suckithookah@hotmail.com
FULL KI TCHEN OPEN TIL MIDNIGH T EVER Y DAY!
(SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL MENU)
HAPPY HOUR DAILY
FROM OPEN TILL 8PM $2 DOMESTICS • $2 IMPORTS • $2.50 WELL DRINKS
Broadway5050.com
Alamo Heights 210.826.0069 • Colonnade 210.691.5050
paytonphotography.com
SEAFOOD El Ceviche de Waldito 5526 Evers, (210) 681-8100 No, the restaurant isn’t much to look at, tucked away in nondescript shopping strip off Evers. You’re not going to find molecular gastronomy, but you will find one of the friendliest chefs in town and a great lunchtime deal. Native Peruvian Waldo Castro runs the kitchen—that is, when he’s not mingling with guests. You can bet he’ll visit each table during dinner because there isn’t enough fish in the sea to keep this chef confined to the kitchen. The chef-owner began his long journey more than 30 years
Seafood soup with shrimp, fish and mussels
ago washing dishes in Miami and finally working his way to up the ranks and making it as an executive chef for top hotel companies like Hilton, Sheraton and Hyatt. A year after arriving in San Antonio, Castro and his wife set out to open a place to call their own and El Ceviche de Waldito was born. The modest 14-table eatery has turned into a gathering place for diners looking for a quick lunchtime buffet or a lively dinner. Oh, the food you’ll find on this buffet: Castro doesn’t just stick with Peruvian classics. On any visit to Waldito’s you might find several hearty sopas, tamales wrapped in banana leaves, fried rice with pigeon peas, crunchy tostones, sautéed bananas, a paella, roasted chicken legs and pork ropa vieja braised in a spicy tomato sauce. Don’t be afraid of trying the unknown–Castro walks guests through each selection, making sure they get un poco de todo. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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SEAFOOD
▲ 210 Ceviche The ceviche sampler is the best way to get a taste of a few varieties, and the selection changes daily. The sampler du jour during our visit featured the 210 (part of the restaurant’s house specialties) with sizeable chunks of shrimp, celery and cucumber in a soy-citrus marinade. Stick with the satisfying cooked dishes such as the Arroz 210 with seafood bits or the sautéed salmon. 9502 I-10 W, Ste 101, (210) 593-9300, 210ceviche.com
Camaron Pelado Seafood Grill You don’t go to a place like Camaron Pelado for the atmosphere, though the core collection of tables and chairs is colorful, and there is some seastuff strewn around. You do go for coastal classics such as the ketchupy ceviches, the crisp shrimp aguachiles, the catch-all caldos with names like Levanta Muertos (“raise the dead”), and the superb whole fish or filets. 2918 W Commerce, (210) 434-6700, camaronpelado.info
Neptune’s Seafood House Neptune’s is a neighborhood palace of fried fish, friendly service and nautical knick-knacks, including a battle-scarred marlin. The cornmealbreaded and fried okra is utterly irresistible: crisp, fresh and barely a whisper of green. 1922 Goliad, (210) 337-7294
Rudy’s Seafood Heaping platters of fresh fried seafood are the draw at this Southside institution. The crab cake served stuffed inside a deep-fried shell is a standout. The oysters and shrimp are plump, the fish flaky and nongreasy. 4122 S Flores, (210) 532-1315, rudysseafood.com
Costa Pacifica
The Sandbar
Known for innovative, fresh dishes, one-of-a-kind specialty drinks and ambiance reminiscent of the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Costa Pacifica is all about freshness. Visit for the fish “al pastor” costras, tuna capaccio or the whole red snapper. 434 N Loop 1604 W, (210) 491-1378, costapacificausa.com
Shoot a few (dozen) oysters or try the larger-than-life shrimp roll. Andrew Weissman’s Sandbar delivers hits from land and sea including a classic fish ’n’ chips, and for the fish-averse, a silly-good Mexican burger. Top-notch wine and beer, too. 200 E Grayson, (210) 212-2221, sandbarsa.com
Fishland Fish Market
Sea Island Shrimp House
Dive in for lunch or dinner. The place is plain but the fried fish is fine; don’t go looking for broiled or sautéed. Oysters are also rock–fried, of course. 4941 Walzem, (210) 655-3232, fishlandfishmarket.com
Sea Island is a flourishing homegrown chain that serves roughly one ton of fish daily to customers at six local restaurants. Offering a wealth of fried combos (served with homey sides like hushpuppies and coleslaw) alongside such time-tested signatures as “World Famous Charbroiled Shrimp,” the menu’s evolved to include Mexican-inspired dishes (including ceviche and fish tacos) and is wisely rounded out with grilled options for the calorie counters and beef kabobs for the ichthyophobic. Multiple locations, shrimphouse.com
Groomer Seafood Market Hometown, premium seafood suppliers stocking favorites from the Gulf and beyond. The passion here is for quality and freshness, two key components of top-shelf seafood. Weekly specials and market reports keep consumers and industry folk alike up to date on what’s new in the store. 9801 McCullough, (210) 377-0951, groomerseafood.com
Mariscos El Bucanero Your fish-phobic friends can get a top-notch asada plate (with enough for two), but this is a fresh-seafood lover’s paradise. See if your taste buds 100
can stand the heat from the spicy camarones aguachile or share a whole fried fish with a guppy-size price tag. The tostada mixta with ceviche, octopus and scallops will leave you missing the coast. Plus: best fried shrimp in town. 16505 Blanco, (210) 408-9297, elbucanerosa.com
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Wildfish Seafood Grille & Steaks Dark and sleek but relaxed, any stuffiness is warded off by the lively bar scene at this Eddie V’s offshoot. Fresh fish dishes tend to be sauced, but polished, and the wine list suits the seafood. 1834 NW Loop 1604, (210) 493-1600, wildfishseafoodgrille.com
Lemongrass Mango Louisiana Shrimp with Vermicelli Rice Noodles
When it comes to our seafood —
IT’S THE WATER, THAT MAKES
YOUR MOUTH WATER
That’s right, the reason that Louisiana Seafood is the best in the world is the water. Our shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish are thriving in fisheries where nutrient-rich freshwater mixes with the crystal clear Gulf water to produce a one-of-a-kind environment. One taste and you know it’s Louisiana seafood — fresher, sweeter and more delicious. Pick Louisiana Seafood to make every dish perfect. This recipe, stories and more at LouisianaSeafood.com
Demand It.
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STEAKHOUSE Ruth’s Chris Steak House Multiple locations, ruthschris.com Change isn’t easy. But after 13 years at Sunset Station in St. Paul Square, Ruth’s Chris Steak House decided to make a big move across 281 to join forces with one of the best hotels in San Antonio, the Grand Hyatt, a transition that’s been as smooth as the classic cocktails being whipped up in the restaurant’s new bar. The 90-seat bar (not counting the River Walk-facing patio) is fully staffed with at least 12 attentive bartender/servers ready to deliver kitchen snacks like the luscious shrimp voodoo or the 102
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A juicy USDA prime steak served on a sizzling plate
perfectly grilled tenderloin skewers. The boozy cocktails also pair well with Ruth’s Chris seven signature steaks. Sized to satiate every appetite, the USDA Prime offerings range from the petite filet to a massive Porterhouse for two. Steaks are served on a 500-degree plate (it’s seriously hot), so whether you’re ordering the popular Texas-sized Cowboy ribeye or the filet, a tender cut of corn-fed Midwestern beef, the plate guarantees your hunk of beef will stay warm throughout dinner. This being a hotel restaurant, diners don’t have to limit their red meat consumption to lunch or dinner. On the a la carte breakfast menu, you’ll find the Eggs Fertel, two poached eggs atop two 3-ounce prime filets and English muffins topped with hollandaise sauce. It’ll definitely change the power breakfast game.
T E X A N S K N O W S T E A K. AND THEY NAMED US THE
# 2 Steakhouse in the Whole Steak-Loving state.
*
Bohanan’s fame is founded on sublimely tender prime beef
in a fine old building in downtown San Antonio a block from
grilled over fragrant mesquite wood. Enjoy extraordinary
the River Walk. Imbibe a classic cocktail at the first-floor Bar at
Akaushi beef, Chef/Owner Mark Bohanan’s large custom cuts
Bohanan’s, then join us upstairs for the best steak you’ve ever had.
of prime aged corn-fed beef, succulent seafood flown in fresh daily, and spectacular table-side desserts flambé. We’re located
(210) 472-26 00
* December 2007 Texas Monthly magazine ranked Bohanan’s second best steakhouse in the state.
# 221 East Houston Street San Antonio, Texas
www . boh a n a ns . com
COC KTA I L S
FOR
CHILDREN’S
STIR IT UP
C H A R I T I E S.
For A Good Cause
Join us. Top bartenders come together for four days of seminars, tastings and parties in San Antonio. Proceeds benefit children’s charities.
www.sacocktailconference.com
January 16 – 19, 2014 | Downtown San Antonio
STEAKHOUSE Barn Door
Little Rhein Steakhouse
Historic and charming, the Barn Door is a San Antonio institution. Although recent additions (including a wine room and a wi-fi-equipped patio) have brought the Barn Door up to date, the classics haven’t changed— Southern-style steaks and seafood, nostalgic decor and Texas hospitality. 8400 N New Braunfels, (210) 824-0116, thebarndoorrestaurant.com
If you need to impress your hot date (or your hot spouse), take them here. This steakhouse, housed in the historic Bombach house (est. 1847), has a beautiful view of the River Walk and the patio is lit after dark, creating a romantic environment for your special someone. 231 S Alamo, (210) 225-2111, littlerheinsteakhouse.com
Bohanan’s
Myron’s Prime Steak House
Fine steaks and seafood are served in high style at this establishment in the heart of downtown. When you’re looking for the best in the city, Bohanan’s offers unrivaled dining and elegance. Flaming desserts made in front of your eyes will wow even the most jaded connoisseur. 219 E Houston, (210) 472-2600, bohanans.com
The sleekness of this steakhouse is great for a date, family celebration, or business dinner. The steaks take the cake, but sides like jalapeño mac and cheese have developed a cult following. Bonus: Owner Bill Been made sure to have a good wine selection. 10003 NW Military, Ste 2101, (210) 493-3031, myronsprime.com
Chama Gaucha
The Palm
This churrascaria’s salad bar is almost as expansive as the meats available. Experience the “taste of Southern Brazil” with a visit to Stone Oak’s own Brazilian steakhouse, which features never-ending cuts of lamb, pork, chicken and beef. 18318 Sonterra, (210) 564-9400, chamagaucha.com
The mantra is simple: “Treat guests like family, serve great food and always exceed expectations.” Since 1926, The Palm has served as a second home for patrons looking for classic Italian, prime steaks and chops, robust lobsters or just a great place for a modern power lunch. 233 E Houston, (210) 226-7256, thepalm.com
Little Red Barn
Tejas Steakhouse & Saloon
Visit the largest steakhouse in Texas since 1963 that caters to hipsters and cowboys alike. The homey vibe adds to the Little Red Barn’s solid reputation for providing everything a hungry customer would want. The Little Red Barn won Best Steakhouse in our 2013 Best of SA readers’ poll. 1902 S Hackberry, (210) 532-4235, littleredbarnsteakhouse.com
Visit for a true Hill Country experience. The wooden dining room is the perfect setting fot a batch of Go Texan Quail on a Wire, five baconwrapped Texas quail breasts stuffed with smoked jalapenos and pepper jack cheese, as well as KC-Style steaks and USDA Choice or above, cooked to order. 401 Obst Road, Bulverde, tejassteakhouse.com
STILL ' N I L Z Z I S SINCE 1963
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SUSHI Yellowfish Sushi 9102 Wurzbach, (210) 614-3474, yellowfishsushi.com
The Frushi Roll, with tempura shrimp, crab, plantains and strawberries
Alex and Brenda Sarmiento are trying to make Japamex happen. Due to SA’s love of all thing’s spicy, the brother and sister team have an actual shot of making the fusion stick. Located in a tiny edifice that at one point guaranteed both a speedy car inspection and fresh fruit cup, Yellowfish Sushi is owned and operated by the pair, who employ a method of sushi making they labeled “sushiology” (yep, that means the sushi chefs are sushiologists), as they combine traditional dishes with a little bit of that SA heat. Enter the sleek, colorful spot and try the probaditas or sashimi of fresh salmon, yellow fin tuna and octopus, but don’t expect to find any overfished creatures of the sea–Alex has no time for poor eco-choices. The restaurant also offers reusable plastic chopsticks to further reduce its carbon footprint. The Sarmientos do have time for detail, evident in their care of octopus, sliced thin, or the spicy Cevichimi with touches of cilantro, jalapeños, Sriracha and ponzu sauce. Yellowfish cranks out hand rolls, or Japanese tacos as labeled on the menu, as well as adventurous rolls like the Frushi, a fun combination of tempura-fried shrimp, cucumber, cream cheese and masago caviar on the inside of the roll, topped with layers of avocado, plantains, crab, strawberries and a drizzle of kiwi sauce. Patrons of the restaurant are known as ‘swimmers,’ so make like Michael Phelps and dive in. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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SUSHI Fujiya Japanese Garden Immerse yourself in this taste and culture of Japan with a visit to this beautiful hideaway. The sushi chefs here are versed in the traditional modes of preparation, so belly up to the bar for an unforgettable experience. The hot dishes are fantastic, too. You’ll never think of ramen the same way again. 9030 Wurzbach, (210) 734-7553, fujiyajapanesegarden.com
with flashy displays of “traditional” cooking. Kobe offers wide selections of entrees, and a full menu of sushi options, including lunch specials ranging from $9.95-$13.95. As far as the sushi itself, Kobe doesn’t rock the boat too much, but offers 15 specialty rolls in addition to the more traditional options. 1007 NW Loop 410, (210) 524-9333, kobesa.com
Koi Kawa Japanese Restaurant Godai Sushi Bar and Restaurant Rustic clay tile and tin stars give Godai a Western feel, but the menu is classic: all the usual sushi suspects and an assortment of rice and noodle bowls. 11203 West, (210) 348-6781 godaisushi.com
Tucked behind the same shopping center that houses Tre Trattoria Alamo Heights, Koi Kawa offers a serene setting coupled with stellar sushi, fresh sashimi, steaming bowls of udon and bright salads. 4051 Broadway, (210) 805-8111
Jingu House at the Japanese Tea Garden
Kumori Sushi
You’ll find both American and Japanese fare at Jingu House. Stop in for the bento box, the California roll or the stir-fry before making your way through the garden. Brackenridge Park, 3853 N St. Mary’s, (210) 2265919, jinguhousesa.com
Elegant and chic, this eatery claims “Japan is jealous.” With locations all over the RGV, Kumori’s first SA spot caters to a Stone Oak crowd hungry for ceviche, spicy edamame, crab salads and vinegary sunomono salads. Tempura and yakitori are always great, and the lunch specials make this great spot extra affordable. 700 E Sonterra, Ste 308, (210) 853-2001, kumorisushi.com
Kai Japanese & Asian Cuisine Don’t be alarmed by its underwhelming digs, this is authentic Japanese cuisine prepared by Japanese chefs in our humble city. Quality sushi and Japanese comfort food (try the tonkatsu combo) served with passion. Best bets: Shrimp Tempura, Sake-Rita. 2535 NW Loop 410, (210) 3406688, kaisushisa.com
Kobe Japanese Steak House We’re always up for dinner and a show: Teppanyaki chefs entertain
Niki’s Tokyo Inn A hidden gem of Japanese food emerges from an exterior that says “go away.” The fish is among the freshest in town and the presentation is elegant and free of gimmick and cream cheese. Take your purist friends and sushi novices who are really in it for the raw. Delectable whole fried fish makes a good closer. 819 W Hildebrand, (210) 736-5471
HAPPY HOUR MON-THURS 5pm-6:30pm Sushi Bar Area Only • DINE-IN ONLY •
9030 Wurzbach Rd. 78240
210.615.7553
San Antonio’s Oldest Authentic Full Menu Japanese Restaurant Open Seven Days a Week Since 1970
LUNCH
Mon thru Fri 11AM - 2:30PM Sat thru Sun 12PM - 3PM
DINNER
Mon thru Thu 5PM - 10PM Fri 5PM - 11PM • SAT 3PM - 11PM Sun 3PM - 9:30PM 108
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www.FujiyaJapaneseGarden.com
SUSHI Osaka Japanese Steak & Sushi Just a ways down from Central Market, Osaka’s bold exteriors make way for fresh, firm sashimi served with jalapeño-shaped wasabi. Try the Monkey Brain appetizer—panko-crusted button mushroom caps filled with spicy mayo. The bento lunch is basically a steal. 4902 Broadway, (210) 822-0300, facebook.com/osakajapanese-steak-sushi
Piranha Killer Sushi Snuggled into still-growing Quarry district, Piranha serves respectable assortment of sushi (easy on the digestive aid escolar!) and lunchtime bento boxes. Young crowd, bright colors, reasonable prices. 260 E Basse, Ste 101, (210) 822-1088, piranhakillersushi.com
Rock San Thai + Sushi Bar This sweet hole-in-the-wall joint offers fresh “appethaizers” and traditional sushi. The colorful USAA roll features shrimp tempura, spicy crab and asparagus topped with spicy salmon, scallion and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce. 5238 DeZavala, Ste 124, (210) 561-0011, rocksanrestaurant.com
Samurai Sushi The seafood is fresh and well priced at this Medical Center area restaurant, and if some sushi rolls don’t live up to their menu pics, many of the more inventive dishes truly are Seafood Dynamite. 2320 Babcock, (210) 692-7555, mysamuraisushi.com
Sapporo UTSA students need sushi, too. Known for it’s unbeatable lunch specials, this small fleet of rolls won’t intimidate. 5638 Hausman, (210) 314-4423
Sumo Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Traditional hibachi steakhouses offer not just uber-fresh grilled meats and vegetables cooked before your eyes, but an entertaining dinner show as well. The sushi is fantastic and the house cocktails like the Fuji Mai Tai, the Zen Cooler and the Yokozuna will keep you coming back. 8342 I-10 W, (210) 541-8100, sumosanantonio.com
Sushihana The assorted nigiri sushi selection is impeccably presented and very good, especially the fresh fatty tuna and the lush uni. Specialty rolls served from the bar are impressive. Trust the sushi chef. 1810 NW Military, (210) 340-7808, sushihanasan.com
Sushi Zushi Always a contender for Best Sushi in our Best Of San Antonio readers poll, Sushi Zushi makes up for its mild décor with adventurous, if untraditional, sushi creations. Try the LIR Roll, spicy tuna and avocado wrapped in fresh salmon and sweet spicy sauce. Pair it with a fruity drink from the bar. Multiple locations, sushizushi.com
Wasabi Sushi Bistro Wasabi is serving up flavorful modern rolls at decent prices in a contemporary setting. Let the chef go nuts with the anything-goes Whatever Roll. You can specify spicy or not, and perhaps even request a type of fish, but why take the fun out of it? 9921 I-10 W, (210) 877-2300, wasabisa.com sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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On A Mission Of Nutrition.
Juicer Heroes: San Antonio’s Original Raw Juice Bar.
Mon - Fri 7am - 6pm Sat 9am - 3 pm 15337 San Pedro Ave San Antonio, TX 78232 (210) 233-9958
juicerheroes.com locations in Stone Oak, Eilan, and Dallas opening early 2014
SA’S ONLY 100% VEGAN & GLUTEN FREE RESTAURANT Now Serving Breakfast! Mon-Fri: 8 – 11a • Lunch and Dinner: 11a-8:30p
8407 Broadway • 210-826-4223 • myvegeria.com
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vegetarian Sweet Yams 218 N Cherry, (210) 229-9267, facebook.com/sweetyamsorganic As it turns out, Southern fare doesn’t have to be jam-packed with bacon. Comfort food can just as easily be affordable, organic and, as Sweet Yams has shown, it can be downright delicious and vegetarian. Just over a year since opening, Sweet Yams has been busy filling the bellies of vegans, vegetarians and those with gluten-free diets without losing the flavors guests crave. The accommodations aren’t plentiful: the restaurant only offers shaded outdoor seating, but what they lack in seating, Sweet Yams makes up for in taste. A visit to the spot, located on Cherry between Houston and
The Eden Salad with organic baby greens, apples and cranberries
Commerce on the East Side, could be met with the popular “D-Geezy’s Mac N Cheesy” or a hearty serving of vegan chili with black beans, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, zucchini, onion and chard over brown rice. You won’t even miss the traditional butter and grease in savory sides such as the Southern greens and red beans and rice, both vegan and organic. Also available are leafy options like the organic Eden salad with baby greens, apples, cranberries and raw pumpkin seeds, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. But omnivores can also find solace in the eats at Sweet Yams. The farm-raised shrimp po’boy is served on a gluten-free bun with cabbage and onions. The Ark-la-Tex gumbo contains farmraised chicken and shrimp, turkey sausage and plenty of organic veggies that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. Leave room for dessert. Sweet Yams carries the “World’s Best Mini Sweet Potato Pie” that’s small, but fierce, with tastes of cinnamon and nutmeg. We’re wouldn’t blame you for not sharing it. sacurrent.com /// Flavor 2013-2014
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a world class experience Culinaria offers “hands-on� exploration into the culinary and wine-making arts for adults with adventuresome spirits, discerning tastes and especially those who appreciate the camaraderie of sharing and consuming new, and often exotic, flavors. We proudly display chefs from this great city and bring in distinguished chefs from around the globe. To help ensure a great week long series of events, we highlight global as well as Texas winemakers and spirit producers. The mission of Culinaria is to promote San Antonio as a premiere destination for wine and food while fostering community growth and enrichment. Culinaria is a non-profit organization supporting local students in culinary arts and food related aid organizations.
FOR ALL FESTIVAL EVENTS VISIT CULINARIASA.ORG
Vegetarian Green Vegetarian Cuisine Since making its move to the Pearl, Green has only grown more popular. The outdoor patio is perfect for people watching while chomping on the signature kale salad, and the indoor digs are fun and unpretentious, much like the macrobiotic, vegan and vegetarian tastes available at this family-owned, homegrown vegetarian café. Toothsome baked goods and savory breakfast and lunch options abound. Multiple locations, greensanantonio.com
Pavani Express Vegetarian Café The all-veggie, vegan-friendly food is worth waiting for. We recommend the delicious saffron lemon rice, a big puri (fried, tortilla-like puffed-up bread), navratam korma (mixed vegetables), paneer (homemade cheese) and pakoras (yummy veggie fritters). Most menu items are under $10, but you’ll need to combine plates for a real Indian dinner. 5755 Evers, (210) 680-3134
Vegeria SA’s only all-vegan restaurant now offers gluten-free baked goods in addition to Tex-Mex and raw offerings. Not sure if you’re ready to go meat-free? The green chili and lentil burger or sun-dried tomato and sweet potato enchiladas, topped with cashew cream, will appeal to the most robust carnivore. Ask about Rosie’s daily specials, but don’t forget dessert: decadent delights like chocolate-chocolate cupcakes make frequent appearances on the changing menu. 8407 Broadway, (210) 826-4223, myvegeria.com
VEGETARIANS
ARE BETTER
LOVERS
Vegetarian-Friendly Adelante This Alamo Heights staple proves that healthy Tex-Mex can still be tasty with tofu enchiladas, brown rice, refried beans and sweet-potato fries served in a gallery-like setting. 21 Brees, (210) 822-7681
Counter Culture Café and Patio Located inside Gold’s Gym just north of US 281 and Evans Road, Counter Culture is nothing if not diverse; you’ll find traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean food offered alongside raw vegan entrees and desserts, salads and breakfast items provided by the same folks behind Wheelie Gourmet food truck. 21044 US Hwy. 281 N, (210) 489-6318, counterculturesa.com
The Cove Recognized by Texas Monthly for its burgers (available with a meat-free patty for a charge), the Cove has also become a veggie haven under the sustainability-oriented hand of owner Lisa Asvestas. The vegan bacon cheeseburger has been known to tempt carnivores and the Bella, a grilled Portobella cap topped with sautéed spinach, tomatoes, onions, jack cheese and spicy Poblano sauce, is worth ditching meat for. 606 W Cypress, (210) 227-2683, thecove.us
Twin Sisters Bakery & Café The kitschy café is known for its vegetarian breakfast (chilaquiles, tofu rancheros) and lunch (tempeh salad, veggie burger, chalupa with black beans) menus, but does have a few meat dishes. 6322 N New Braunfels, (210) 822-0761, twinsistersbakeryandcafe.com
ALON SHOPPING CENTER
10003 NW Military, Suite 2115 (Corner of Wurzbach & NW Military) Sun - Fri • 11am - 9pm CLOSED SAT 210.233.1249
DOWNTOWN
200 E Grayson, Suite 120 Sun - Fri 8am - 9pm CLOSED SAT 210.320.5865
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12651 Vance Jackson Rd #110 • 210.696.1356 • FoxandHound.com
Hand Crafted
made right.
here in san antonio.
533
Start with the best ingredients. Resist the trends. Take care of the details. That is what makes Cinco a Five Star Vodka.
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We use the highest quality American wheat and follow old world European methods. We make each small batch of Cinco by hand and distill it using the finest copper pot still in Texas. This allows us to leave Cinco unfiltered which gives it a flavor and drinkability that is simply remarkable. Cinco is a vodka for a well-lived life. Share it with friends, drink it slow and savor the moment. We’re sure you’ll enjoy it as much as we do. Trey and Kimberly Azar
DISTILLED & BOTTLED BY AZAR DISTILLING, LLC San Antonio, TX