April 10, 2018 by The University Star

DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911 @universitystar | universitystar.com

TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 2018

Volume 107, Issue 26

SAN MARCOS

STARS 2018

GRAPHIC BY CARO MARTINEZ & MEGAN HICKS

The University Star

2 | Tuesday, April 10, 2018

SAN MARCOS STARS Trinity Building 203 Pleasant St. San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 245 - 3487

The San Marcos Stars are decided by an online poll held by The University Star each year. The poll was open to the public so students and residents could vote for their favorite businesses in the community.

Editors Editor-in-Chief: Denise Cervantes, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor: Shayan Faradineh, starmanagagingeditor@txstate.edu News Editor: Katie Burrell, starnews@txstate.edu Lifestyle Editor: LeeAnn Cardwell, starlifestyle@txstate.edu Opinions Editor: Carrington Tatum, staropinion@txstate.edu Sports Editor: Brooke Phillips, starsports@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief: Claire Abshier, starcopychief@txstate.edu Design Editor: Vivian Medina, stardesign@txstate.edu Multimedia Editor: Tyler Jackson, starmultimedia@txstate.edu

Katie Burrell News Editor @KatieNicole96

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BEST TATTOO SHOP

Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. By Andrew Terrell News Reporter Due to its success, popularity and age as the first tattoo shop in the city, Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. was named the best tattoo shop in San Marcos. Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. was founded in 1993 by Texas State alumna Jan Van Zandt and her son Corey Van Zandt. Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. is located at 316 N. LBJ Drive and specializes in custom tattoos and professional piercings. Offering brilliantly designed tattoos by talented artists, Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. will deliver the tattoo the customer’s been dreaming of. David Potter, a tattoo artist who joined Mystic Marks in 1995, was humbled to hear about the award and the positive feedback. “We work really hard to offer great service and to make this place a great environment for guests,” Potter said. “It’s really humbling to see the shop get recognized for that.”

Engagement Editor: John Lee, starsocial@txstate.edu

Mystic Marks Tattoo artist working on a tattoo for a customer. The tattoo shop has been in San Marcos since 1993. PHOTO BY CHELSEA YOHN

Mystic Marks Tattoo Co. has a high percentage of positive online reviews claiming the shop offers patient, skillful and dedicated service. The shop is open 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through

Wednesday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. The shop is located at 316 N LBJ Drive.

BEST PIZZA Advertising Staff Account Executive: Sarah Gutierrez starad1@txstate.edu Account Executive: Matt Moffitt starad2@txstate.edu

Gumby's Pizza

Account Executive: Katy Goerss starad3@txstate.edu Account Executive: Maria Gomez starad4@txstate.edu

Full-Time Staff Director: Laura Krantz, laurakrantz@txstate.edu Media Specialist: Dillan Thomson, thomson@txstate.edu

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Pizzas sit in a glass case to be purchased by the slice at Gumby's Pizza.

For advertising inquiries, please contact us at advertising@universitystar.com.

PHOTO BY VICTOR RODRIGUEZ

By Sandra Sadek Senior News Reporter Competition between local pizza joints is high and one pie shop has come out victorious. Gumby's Pizza, located at 312 W. Hopkins Street in a brand new location, was selected for the San Marcos Stars Best Pizza award. The restaurant has only lost the title twice to Pie Society since its opening in 2010. "It's our goal every year to win this award," said Hector Rosales, assistant manager. "We really want to be a staple in the city of San Marcos. I think our laid-back, fun culture paired with the standards seen in a corporation is what makes us a favorite." The restaurant took a big step in 2018 by upgrading to a new space and acquiring new equipment. Although Gumby's Pizza is now slightly further from campus, Rosales said he hopes the new dynamics will make up for it. "We used to focus a lot on our deliveries while at our previous location," Rosales said. "Now we are trying to be more of a dining location, reaching toward a broader demographic. Although the new place might affect our lunchtime customers, our latenight hours will drive in more customers." Gumby's Pizza held its grand opening last week and gave out between 2,500 and 3,000 free slices to customers. The restaurant is open every day from 11 - 4 a.m.

512-245-5786

BEST LIVE MUSIC & NIGHT LIFE About Us History: The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Tuesday of the spring and fall and once a month in the summer semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. on publication days with a distribution of 5,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright: Copyright Tuesday, April 10, 2018. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor-in-chief. Deadlines: Letters to the Editor or any contributed articles are due on Monday the week prior to publication. Corrections: Any errors that are in the pages of The University Star and are brought to our attention will be corrected as soon as possible. Visit The Star at universitystar.com

The Marc By Jakob Rodriguez Senior News Reporter The Marc was voted best venue to hear live music and experience the nightlife of downtown. Omar Dawoud, The Marc's owner, said he attributes most of the venue's success to the experience it brings to San Marcos residents. "We do what we do for the community," Dawoud said. "We try to provide an experience. That’s the number one goal. If people are happy, we’re happy.” This semester, The Marc hosted acts from various genres, including EDM artist Rezz and the country music group Koe Wentzel. The Marc recently announced a performance May 18 by hip-hop artist Tory Lanez. "We try to bring in acts that typically won’t come to San Marcos," Dawoud said. "We try to focus on artists that usually direct their shows to Austin, San Antonio or other major markets. Our

The Marc continuously sells out their shows months in advanced. PHOTO BY MARINA BUSTILLO-MENDOZA

idea is to bring these major market artists to a small town for Texas State students.” In the spirit of inclusion, The Marc's management attempts to provide something for everyone by offering special events monthly including Emo Night and Latin Night. Over a thousand dollars were raised

March 29 during The Marc's Dancing for DACA and Latin night. The proceeds from the door sales were donated to the advancement of Deferred Action for Childhood Ariivals students in Texas. The Marc is open from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and is located at 120 E Sa Antonio St.

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LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor @leeanncardwell

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BEST DATE NIGHT

Root Cellar Cafe and Brewery By Alyssa Weinstein Lifestyle Reporter Root Cellar Cafe and Brewery is a beloved restaurant that made its mark on the San Marcos community. Its popularity has grown over the years and led to winning best date night in the San Marcos Stars. Root Cellar Cafe and Brewery is considered a “new American” restaurant, offering a twist on classic dishes. It is best known for its breakfast menu with unique options such as the Brazilian French toast or cherry hazelnut oatmeal bowl. “Almost every item in the restaurant is made from scratch in our kitchen,” Beth James, the general managersaid. “We are truly local and support other local businesses as well. We care about the small details like fresh bread, brewing our own beers, making our own desserts; even our ice cream is homemade. There is no cutting corners if you are going to make this kind of food.” The restaurant is known as a great place for professors to bring guests and for students to bring their parents when they come visit. However, the little cafe could not be a more perfect venue for a date night with its commitment to an authentic eating experience. “Our CEO and owner, Kyle Mylius, has purposely made sure The Root

McKenzie Grenfell, customer of Root Cellar Cafe, enjoys the Antonelli's cheese plate at the bar. PHOTO BY ALYSSA WEINSTEIN

Cellar Cafe feels like a step into the past, where you can get away from social media and the technology world,” James said. “Being in a restaurant is

supposed to be a genuine human, social experience, and we are providing that without the need to pick up your phone or to watch a television."

The Root Cellar Cafe and Brewery is located at 215 N LBJ Drive and is open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

BEST AUTO SERVICES

It is a ti(r)e By Arielle Raveney Lifestyle Reporter The people have voted, and the best auto service in town is a tie. Nichols Tire & Automotive and Texas Express Lube & Auto are servicing students' and local residents' cars. Nichols Tire & Automotive is located on the Square at 301 N LBJ Drive and is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Fernando Murra, owner and mechanic at Nichols, said its services keep people on the road. Murra said the shop offers the best tires at the best price. Shop workers change tires and flats as well as give oil changes, maintenance and repair work.

The independent shop has been around for over 35 years but Murra has been the owner for the past four years. "We do our best to fix cars and do right by (students) to get them on the road quickly," Murra said. "It's a privilege to be (a San Marcos Star). The efforts you put into helping students and customers, to be recognized that you are doing your best at it is very satisfactory." Texas Express Lube & Auto is also located near campus at 110 S CM Allen Pkwy from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Sabastian Ramirez, manager of Texas Express, said he became a mechanic because he likes to work with cars. He worked in the auto shop at his high school and enjoyed seeing how

Sabastian Ramirez, manager of Texas Express Lube & Automotive, in the repair shop. PHOTO BY ARIELLE RAVENEY

different cars work. Ramirez said the location has been an auto shop since the' 70s but has been Texas Express for about three years. Texas Express is a chain business with locations in Kerrville and Luling. The location has been voted 'Best in Hays County' for a third year in a row by San Marcos Daily Record. "We try to help out college students

the best we can," Ramirez said. "We offer student discounts, will let them know 'hey this is looking really bad' or 'everything is looking good. (We) like to help inform (college students). We want to give them the heads up that 'we aren't here trying to get one over on you, we are just trying to make sure your car stays running.'"

BEST HAIR SALON

San Marcos Hair Company By Brittlin Richardson News Reporter San Marcos Hair Company offers more than haircuts and styles, every hair service is a unique and high-quality experience in the heart of downtown San Marcos, which is why readers

voted it the best for 2017-18. The salon, tasked with keeping Bobcats in style for 33 years, is known for its popular haircut happy hour,. Janaa Chrystal, the owner of the salon, began working as a stylist at the salon while attending Southwest Texas State University in 1982. Three

years later, Chrystal purchased San Marcos Hair Company. As a young entrepreneur, Chrystal made it her goal to give San Marcos residents the best hair in town. Chrystal said she is excited over her salon receiving the award and said the title had been awarded many years ago. The success of San Marcos Hair Company can be attributed to the location, the laid-back atmosphere, the quality and the low prices. Offered weekly, the salon's happy

hour gives clients high-quality haircuts for a discounted price 3-5 p.m. every Tuesday through Thursday. "We've had our happy hour for years and it is our way of giving back to the community," Chrystal said. "Sometimes (people) need a haircut and may not have the money, so it comes in handy for students as well." The location is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The location is closed Sunday.

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10% off San Marcos Hair Company serves Bobcats with stylish haircuts for an affordable price. PHOTO BY VICTOR RODRIGUEZ

Advertisement deadline is April 19. Contact advertising@universitystar.com

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SAN MARCOS STARS

LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor @leeanncardwell

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BEST ASIAN FOOD

BEST BURGER

Kobe Japanese Steakhouse By Sonia Garcia Lifestyle Reporter Kobe Japanese Steakhouse keeps customers coming back for more with a variety of Japanese foods, sushi and hibachi grills. The family-oriented restaurant opened its doors in 2005 and has won the San Marcos Stars' best Asian cuisine for three years in a row. Kobe is currently closed due to renovations but is expected to open at its new location 210 Springtown Way this spring. The new location is aiming to create an even better experience than before featuring a full size bar that will be open until 2 a.m. There will also be a new 100 inch TV to host games and a separate hibachi area with six tables. Kobe is a growing business, having transitioned from a smaller building to a bigger one while in San Marcos. It began renovations in March after having

plans to renovate for about a year. It is opening a new location at the end of the month in Live Oak, Texas. Aitiana Sanchez, psychology senior, went to Kobe about once a week until it temporarily closed. Her favorite sushi rolls include the Fire Roll and the Double J roll. “The quality of the food is really good, and the prices are amazing," Sanchez said. "It’s always super good and super fresh.” The lunch and dinner specials make going weekly affordable for a college student according to Sanchez. Some of Kobe's deals include endless sushi, ladies' night and college night and on the weekends, kids eat free. Kobe typically opens seven days a week at 11:30 am and closing times are subject to change with the reopening. To keep up with Kobe's re-opening, check out the twitter handle @Kobe_smtx.

Kobe Japanese Steakhouse will re-open at its new location 210 Springtown Way this spring. PHOTO BY VICTOR RODRIGUEZ

A delicious classic cheeseburger at Taproom Pub & Grub. PHOTO BY LEEANN CARDWELL

Taproom Pub & Grub By LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor Vintage beer tap handles, a variety of rugged decor and a moose head garnished with string lights creates an eclectic atmosphere perfect for chowing down on a juicy burger. Taproom Pub & Grub won the San Marcos Stars favorite burger place and has been a favorite in San Marcos since its opening in 1994. The atmosphere and wide selection of beers on tap combine to create a cozy establishment for students, alumni and locals alike. A variety of generously portioned burgers are available for any type of taste bud. Each of them is topped with a signature sweet bun, served with crisp lettuce and tomato on the side and grilled to juicy perfection. For those who like to keep it classy, The Works Burger topped with mushrooms, crispy onions and bacon is a popular choice. The Hell Burger, served with

pepper jack cheese, grilled jalapenos and hot wings sauce is perfect for those who live their life on the spicy side. Bobcats of all ages love the Taproom original Queso Cheeseburger. Daniel Zinda, Taproom bartender and manager-on-duty, has worked at the restaurant for about four years. He said there is never a short supply of people coming to show their visiting family and friends the unique burgers and beers. "I started off in the kitchen when I first worked here, so I know first hand all about cooking and how many we go through in a day," Zinda said. "On graduation (days), I bet we make 300 to 450 burgers in a day." Taproom is located on the Square at 129 E Hopkins St. and is open from 11:30-12:00 a.m. Sunday through Wednesday. The restaurant is open late until 1:00 a.m. on Thursday through Saturday. Those under the age of 21 must enter before 6:00 p.m. on all days of the week.

HUMANS OF SAN MARCOS “We had this guy named Andy Soule and he lost both of his legs in the (Afghan) war. He never looked up, just tapped his stumps. You could talk ‘at’ him sometimes. You could tell he understood you, but he never looked at you or anything. We brought him out here and he was kayaking around. Well, in 2010 he was the first American to beat the Russians in (the Paralympics) biathlon. He did it by training right here. He pulls himself on a sled for the biathlon because they can’t ski. He literally just got in a kayak and just did laps around the island here. He would get up and he wouldn’t ask, he wouldn’t allow (us) to help him. He would be doing a handstand pulling himself and his boat to get out of the river. Not only do you get to talk to him now, but you have to look up at him because he’s really good with (the) prosthetics he has.” Ben Kvanli smiles with his daughter in front of the river where the Olympic Outdoor Center operates. PHOTO BY DIANA FURMAN

CARTOON OF THE WEEK

-Former Olympian Ben Kvanli owns the Olympic Outdoor Center in San Marcos

WHERE

FRESH & FAST MEET

WE DELIVER! VISIT JIMMYJOHNS.COM TO FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU CARTOON BY STEPHANIE CLOYD | GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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Carrington Tatum Opinions Editor @mogulcarrington

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Grins By Diana Furman Assistant Lifestyle Editor Fresh margaritas, huge onion rings and a treehouse-like atmosphere create a perfect place to enjoy a Happy hour. From 2-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, Grins offers 99 cent margaritas, earning it Best Happy Hour in the San Marcos Stars. Since 1975, Grins has been a local hotspot for the San Marcos community. It was originally built as a house in 1948 but was converted into a restaurant in 1972. Grins owners Paul Sutphen and Johnny Ferrell got their start at the restaurant working as chefs while attending Southwest Texas State University. Upon graduation, they bought the small, one-room restaurant and gave life to the community staple known today. The restaurant has expanded three times since 1975 and can accommodate up to 250 customers.

Dawn Manger, the business manager, said the owners have always maintained a passion for serving the community and Sutphen's compassion for the town is evident through his work. The establishment is mostly composed of windows and a treeshaded deck, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Manger said it is perfect for enjoying an ice-cold margarita or bucket of beer after a long day at the river. The family-like atmosphere and commitment to serving quality food is a key component of the restaurant. Manger said because Grins opened when the town was smaller it has remained a familiar spot in San Marcos as the town expands. “The city’s changed so much but we haven’t,” Manger said. Grins has become a tradition in San Marcos. Manger said they plan on maintaining that tradition for as long as they can. Grins is open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located at 802 N LBJ Dr.

A large order of 12 onion rings at Grin's restaurant feeds the entire table. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

Italian Garden By Jaden Edison Opinions Columnist Italian Garden has been deemed the best Italian restaurant and has served high-quality Italian entrées in San Marcos since 2000. The award-winning dining room serves Italian dishes at affordable prices, ranging from its popular chicken tetrazzini to tortellini served with creamy pesto sauce. The plethora of seafood choices, such as the shrimp scampi, are made to conquer any taste buds. Italian Garden offers a variety of Bobcats can enjoy traditional Italian dishes at Italian Garden. delicious cheesecake deserts. Italian Garden has achieved a near PHOTO BY JOSH MENDS

perfect rating on Google reviews. The comfortable atmosphere has given it a reputation as a family-style restaurant. Italian Garden takes pride in its friendly, upbeat environment. The rich Italian fragrance along with the friendly staff have kept individuals coming back. “We provide a total package that includes a family environment and amazing food,” said employee Jet Zenele. Italian Garden is located at 415 N LBJ Drive and is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

BEST BARBEQUE

Kent Black's BBQ By Shayan Faradineh Managing Editor Kent Black’s BBQ is a familyowned restaurant that started back in 1932 and is currently in its fourth generation. Kent Black is a third generation pit master from the 84-year-old original establishment in Lockhart, otherwise known as the barbecue capital of Texas. Luckily for San Marcos residents, Black manages the restaurants in Lockhart and San Marcos. Kent Black's BBQ is located on 510 Hull Street. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. In addition to barbecue and savory sides, the restaurant features live music when musicians are available. Chansey Pullen, from San Antonio, reviewed the establishment and said she would definitely come back for more authentic barbecue and lack of line. "Homeward bound from San Antonio and wanted to return to Salt Lick or Lockhart. This was an excellent find along our route instead," Pullen said. "Friendly staff, great atmosphere and smoky BBQ."

Kent Black's offers slow cooked meats in a classic barbecue joint atmosphere. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

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Carrington Tatum Opinions Editor @mogulcarrington

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BEST DESSERT

Rhea's Ice Cream By Zach Ienatsch Assistant Opinions Editor Made by hand and with the freshest ingredients, Rhea’s offers over a dozen flavors of ice cream. The store offers ice cream in a cup, cone, brownie, cookie sandwich, milkshake or even a pint or halfgallon container. Rhea’s also offers vegan ice cream for the lactose intolerant or dairy abstainers. In addition to ice cream, Rhea’s also serves espresso, with or without ice cream included. Founded by Rhea Ortamond, Rhea’s Ice Cream operates with quality ice cream in mind. Ortamond has since sold the business and moved away , but the original recipes

that remain have become local favorites. The ice cream selections are a combination of original and seasonal flavors, with a flavor of the month. Customers have input on which flavors will be added and offered. “We put a lot of work into our ice cream,” said Cheyenne Kotowski, employee. “It’s so cool to have our tiny shop make such a strong connection with the local community.” Located on North LBJ, the shop is a short walk from campus. With hours extended 12-10 p.m. seven days a week, delicious ice cream can finish a romantic dinner nearby or even prelude a nightly trip to the square.

Rhea's one-of-akind flavors gives customers a unqiue twist on this frozen treat. PHOTO BY ELZA TAURINS

BEST SANDWICHES

Jimmy Johns By Carrington Tatum Opinions Editor

Jimmy John's is conveniently located on the Square near other food and drink options. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

The "Italian Night Club" is one of the most popular choices at Jimmy John's, the number one sandwich shop in San Marcos. With 2,630 locations Jimmy Johns is never too far away. It offers a quick meal between classes or a casual hang-out spot for students. However, what puts this sandwich shop over the competition is it is one of the only places that will bring the food to its customers. Cody Phillips, assistant manager, describes Jimmy Johns as an upbeat

environment with a lot of energy. "It's a great honor and we appreciate that we were selected," Phillips said. Jimmy Johns gives students a place to stop and eat in between the busy schedules. As the logo illustrates, the company has been feeding customers since 1983 with a menu of more than 17 unique sandwiches. Jimmy Johns is located at 117 E. Hopkins Street and 1290 Wonder World Dr #201. The Hopkins location is open every day from 11-3 a.m. while the Wonder World location is open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. making it perfect eating after a night out on the Square or a midnight snack.

BEST LIQUOR

Twin Liquors By Zach Ienatsch Assistant Opinions Editor Coming out on top for best liquor in town is Twin Liquors. With over 80 stores and four in San Marcos, Twin Liquors has served affordable wine, beer and spirits to central Texans for decades. Bobcats and local residents who are of age can visit one of the many local stores for beer, wine, cider and other malt beverages. Because of liquor laws in the state of Texas, Twin Liquors is one of the only stores in town to carry distilled spirits, which are not sold in grocery stores or gas stations. Twin Liquors was first opened in Austin and now spans as far as Waco, north Houston and south of San Antonio. "Twin Liquors is honored to be a part of the San Marcos community and we appreciate the votes for best liquor store in town," said marketing director Sandra Spalding. Customers should just make sure they stop by one of the four locations in San

Twin Liquors located next to AJ's Ranch Road Grill is the smallest location in town but has a wide variety of alcohol. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

Marcos. There is a location at 201 Moore St, 1160 Thorpe Ln #101, 102 Wonder World Dr #403 and 9455 Ranch Rd 12. Each location is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Of course, always drink responsibly and never drink and drive.

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BEST COFFEE

Wake The Dead By Daisy Colon Sports Reporter

Custom Coffee is created at your request at Wake the Dead. PHOTO BY ELZA TAURINS

Wake The Dead Coffee House was awarded with Best Coffee Shop due to its mix of different coffee drinks and tasty food choices. The quirky spot offers beverages like coffee, tea and beer while also serving soups, sandwiches and a variety of desserts. Wake The Dead offers students a great place to study for a big test or to watch live performances from local bands. Andrea Enriquez, public relations junior and coffee enthusiast, enjoys spending her afternoon in the courtyard with a good book and a chai latte. “One day on my way home from school, I saw the sign out front and decided to turn in,” Enriquez said. “Ever since that day, I come out

here as much as I can. I love the atmosphere; everyone is so chill and the coffee is great.” Julie Balkman, the shop owner, said Wake The Dead Coffee House will have been open for 10 years next month. “On May 30 we will have a blowout party from 4-9 p.m. with free food, beer, live music and other fun activities in honor of serving the San Marcos area for 10 years,” Balkman said. Balkman said many faculty and students frequent Wake The Dead. “It’s an honor to be recognized for this award by the vote of students and faculty,” Balkman said. “Its good to know that they think we’re doing a quality job and sell quality products.” Wake The Dead Coffee House is open seven days a week from 7-12 a.m. and is located on 1432 Old Ranch Road 12.

BEST TACOS

Torchy's Tacos By John Paul Mason II Sports Reporter Texas State students' usual go-to foods for studying, post-river floating or late night cravings need to be affordable and Torchy's Tacos is a San Marcos favorite. Torchy's Tacos is a well-known company in Texas. Starting with just a man in Austin selling his own queso and tacos from food trailers, Torchy's has blossomed into a Texas favorite. Bobcats showed their appreciation for the local taco joint in a recent survey, voting the store as the 'best

place to get tacos' in San Marcos. There are some students who visit the store weekly and have developed favorites from the taco joint. "Along with the tacos, mainly the Trailer Park Trashy (taco), I also think the queso is the best," said Seleste Ambriz , psychology freshman. "It is original and you can't find another one like it around here." Torchy's Tacos is both affordable and satisfying for students and local residents. Torchy's is open every day of the week and is located at 301 N. Guadalupe St .

Torchy's is well know for their tacos, such as the Democrat taco. PHOTO BY MARINA BUSTILLO-MENDOZA

BEST MEXICAN FOOD

Chuy's By Region Kinden Sports Reporter People have voted Chuy's as being the best place in town to get Mexican food. Students report the environment and quality of customer service make Chuy's the best Mexican restaurant in San Marcos. Frank Denny, assistant general manager, said the staff appreciates the recognition from customers. “It’s definitely a great thing to know that people appreciate our food and the effort we put into it to provide them with good customer experience,” Denny said. Not only do Chuy's staff provide good Mexican food to its customers, the quality customer service is also what they strive for. “We do everything we can for our customers," said Jillian Schuster, server. "Whatever happens and whatever crazy order we get, we make (the order) happen, even if the manager has to go to the kitchen and make it themselves.” Nominating the Mexican restaurant to be the best has shown how much college students enjoy everything that

A server at Chuy's serves frozen margaritas to customers during happy hour. PHOTO BY ELZA TAURINS

Chuy's offers. The Chuy's in San Marcos has been open since 2016 and has been a popular place since then. “We always want customers to come

back,” Schuster said. “So it’s important that they always get exactly what they want, because... Chuy's employee(s) do anything and everything we can for the

customers.” Chuy's is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The University Star

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Brooke Phillips Sports Editor @BrookePhillips_

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BEST BREAKFAST

Dos Gatos By Melea Polk Assistant Sports Editor The students of Texas State have spoken and one restaurant in San Marcos reigns supreme in the breakfast category: Dos Gatos Kolache Bakery. The kolache bakery has been serving the people of San Marcos since opening in 2009 across the street from campus on N. LBJ Drive. Dos Gatos offers a variety of Czech and Texas kolaches that include chorizo

Dos Gatos offers dozens of kolache styles ranging from sweet to savory. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

and cheese, vegetarian, apricot and strawberry flavors. The bakery also offers cinnamon rolls and a full coffee

menu at the Wonder World location. “I go to Dos Gatos for the kolaches,” said Kiera Jones, education sophomore.

“My favorite Texas kolache is the jalapeno and cheese sausage kolache. My favorite Czech kolache is a tie between the strawberry and cherry. But, they are all really good.” Although Dos Gatos is in two locations, one theme remains the same; the staff of both bakeries is friendly and welcoming when guests come through the door. “The staff at Dos Gatos are really friendly,” Sharniece Scott, nursing freshman, said. “They always speak when I walk through the door and are super helpful when I have questions about certain products. I usually go to the location by campus since I live on campus.” All in all, Dos Gatos has had an impact on the students with its food and hospitable staff members. “I would definitely recommend people to go get a kolache from there,” Scott said. “It is the perfect way to start the day.”

BEST BOUTIQUE

Barefoot Campus Outfitters By Michelle Joseph Sports Reporter College students enjoy buying from small boutiques that sell clothes, accessories and school merchandise. Barefoot Campus Outfitters is one of the best boutique stores in San Marcos. Barefoot sells collegiate T-shirts, novelty items and its own brand of Barefoot and combined apparel for Texas State. The staff at Barefoot knows what kind of environment to create to keep their customers coming back. Taylor Haynes, retail manager, appreciates working for Barefoot because it is fun. “We try to create a lifestyle brand that is chill,” Haynes said. “While the energy

of the store is relaxed, fun and active.” The San Marcos Barefoot location has been around a little over three years and the entire company was founded in 2002. The store has popular items that will always sell year round. “As of now, customers love our cactus-themed items,” Haynes said. “Anything with a cactus on it pretty much sells quickly.” Jordan Crabb, sales associate, never dreads coming to work because the environment makes her job fun. “I like the vibe that Barefoot gives,” Crabb said. “We play good music to make our customers feel comfortable to stay and hang out.” Winning the Best Boutique award means a lot to the Barefoot team, as

Mannequins at Barefoot display Texas State apparel. PHOTO BY ELZA TAURINS

they work hard to create a space for customers to enjoy. “I love my team, we consider ourselves to be a Barefoot family,” Haynes said. “We are so proud to win this award

because the store has come a long way. We had people who didn’t know who we were and now we have built a trusted brand within our community.”

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