Twin Liquors will be celebrating the Fourth of July with sales on select liquors and wines. Photo: Twin Liquors, used with permission.
Twin Liquors is here to help you celebrate the Fourth of July with a special sale on select liquors and wines. The sale kicks off Monday, June 28 and will run through Saturday, July 3. Prepare for the holiday the right way by stopping by Twin Liquors and getting all of your Fourth of July essentials. Twin Liquors also offers delivery straight to your door. (Twin Liquors, 2021)
Be sure to also check out the Twin Liquors Summer Entertaining Guide designed to provide advice on hosting this summer season. Whether “Entertaining at Home” means having a few friends over for dinner or inviting your closest friends to a backyard get-together, Twin Liquors has you covered with everything you need for beverages. Featuring cocktail combo packs with recipes, wine pairings, and tips for hosting, the entertaining guide has something for everyone.
Monday, June 28 – Saturday, July3 Twin Liquors is open Monday – Saturday from 10a.m. to 9p.m. Online hours are 11a.m. to 8p.m.
To find a Twin Liquors store near you visit Twin Liquors online. You may also through their website or Twin Liquors app, which is available on IOS and Android stores. Twin Liquors also offers online ordering and in-store pickup and/or delivery to all stores.
Born and raised in downtown Austin, Texas, Twin Liquors began as one small store and has developed into a successful “home-grown” Texas family-owned company. It has developed a unique and well-respected reputation throughout the United States for having impeccable team members, outstanding customer service, conveniently located stores, extensive selections of fine wines and premium spirits from around the world, and substantial community involvement. Twin Liquors currently operates 100+ neighborhood stores from Austin to San Antonio, the Hill Country to Houston, and the DFW area with their Sigel’s branded stores.
Acclaimed San Antonio and Austin restaurants battle for tortilla title and ultimate bragging rights. Courtesy photo.
The sparks will fly as an all-star crew of San Antonio and Austin restaurants clash during the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance’s (SAFWA) first annual Taco Rumble on Thursday, July 15, 7:30p.m. to 10pm., presented by H-E-B. Tickets for the sure-to-sell-out event are up for grabs at $65. (San Antonio Food and Wine Alliance, 2021)
The sizzling competition, the first in-person event for the recently formed nonprofit, will be held at The Espee, conveniently located east of downtown San Antonio. Formerly known as Sunset Station, this historic spot was a central connection on the Southern Pacific Railroad’s Sunset Limited train route and the filming location of Selena’s “No Me Queda Mas” music video.
Some of the state’s most acclaimed restaurants will turn up the heat in celebration of one of Texas’ most beloved dishes. Firing up the comal will be San Antonio favorites ¡Bucho! Tejano Street Fare, Carnitas Lonja, Chela’s Tacos, La Fonda de Jaime 2.0, La Generala, Jason Dady Catering, Lala’s Gorditas, Milpa, and Naco Mexican Eatery. Representing Austin will be Asador, Carnitas El Guero, Eldorado Taco y Torta Co., Paprika, R19 Taqueria, Texsueño, Trill Foods, and the Austin Taco Mafia — a collaboration between acclaimed Central Texas taquerías Cuantos Tacos, Discada, La Tunita 512, and Nixta Taqueria, an Austin Food & Wine Alliance grant winner.
Adding a little sweetness to the rivalry, three of San Antonio’s favorite dessert shops, Bakery Lorraine, Lick Honest Ice Cream, and Paletería San Antonio, will provide refreshing treats. The dazzling evening will also feature a raucous live set from popular San Antonio entertainer DJ Catwalk.
An esteemed crew of celebrity judges, including Texas Monthly Food Editor Pat Sharpe, San Antonio Express-News Food Critic Mike Sutter, Latin Grammy Award-nominated musician Gina Chavez, San Antonio-based blogger and influencer Stephanie Guerra, and Texas Eats host David Elder of San Antonio’s KSAT. Event attendees also will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite taco as part of the final score.
In addition to showcasing the best in taco craftsmanship alongside an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and premium spirits tastings, Taco Rumble will also feature a unique VIP experience that includes early entry from 6:30p.m. to 7:30 p.m., a stainless-steel YETI wine tumbler, and access to an exclusive agave spirits lounge, with bites from celebrated San Antonio restaurant Cuishe and tastings of fine tequilas and mezcals from Heavy Métl Premium Imports and Patrón Tequila. The Taco Rumble VIP experience is $150, and only 100 passes are available. Tickets are expected to sell out and are available for purchase now.
Taco Rumble is a fundraiser for the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, the culinary nonprofit dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas food and beverage community. SAFWA is the culmination of 34 years of pride, innovation, and talent that reflects the unique culinary landscape of the great state of Texas. Beginning with the Texas Hill Country Wine & Food Festival—one of the nation’s longest-running food fests with 26 years—the organization transitioned to the Austin Food & Wine Alliance in 2011 to be the sole beneficiary of the Austin Food + Wine Festival. In 2020, the nonprofit formed a statewide organization and expanded throughout Texas’ major cities, including San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston.
Proceeds from the signature tasting event will help SAFWA give back to the local culinary community through a vibrant grant program for chefs, farmers, artisan producers, and nonprofits by funding projects focused on culinary innovation that supports the community.
The San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the Central Texas culinary community through grants, educational programming, and events. Guided by an all-volunteer board of directors and committees made up of culinary- and community-minded professionals, the Alliance’s commitment is to support, inspire, and showcase Texas and beyond through the power of our diverse culinary communities.
Pearl announces the launch of ‘Pearl Goods’ – a new line of original merchandise inspired by Pearl’s archives. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
Pearl is excited to announce Pearl Goods – a limited line of merchandise, which draws inspiration from Pearl’s archives and long history in San Antonio. Pearl merchandise will be available online starting Thursday, June 24, and will be available for in-person purchase at Pearl Weekend Markets beginning Saturday, June 26. (Pearl Goods, 2021)
Pearl Goods showcases limited-edition merchandise for the first time in Pearl’s history. Drawing inspiration from Pearl’s history, vintage slogans, logos, and imagery are reproduced to pay homage to Pearl as an iconic part of San Antonio culture. When the brewery was acquired in 2002 it came with a wealth of breweriana that became the bedrock of the archival collection. In 2016, Pearl acquired an additional 2,000 items from former Pearl Brewery employee Mr. Charlie Staats, who amassed an extensive personal collection of Pearl promotional items that spanned its eras. All merchandise featured in Pearl Goods are inspired by Pearl’s archival holdings. Pearl partnered with Helms Workshop to design Pearl Goods merchandise.
“Pearl Goods have been years in the making. It is a way for us to share the brand’s rich history and essentially open up our archives to the public.” – Pearl Chief Marketing Officer Elizabeth Fauerso.
For more information, pricing and a full list of items available for purchase visit Pearl’s website. Pearl merchandise items are available online and can be purchased at Pearl’s Weekend Markets on Saturdays from 9a.m. to 1p.m. and Sundays from 10a.m. to 2p.m.
Pearl, located north of downtown San Antonio, provides a unique experience as a top culinary and cultural destination. The mixed-use space features retail, dining, picturesque green spaces, paseos riverside amphitheater, and the third campus of The Culinary Institute of America. As a former brewery operating from 1883 to 2001, Pearl reflects a vivid past while embracing the future with environmentally sustainable buildings mixed with historic architecture.
The bar at Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen. Photo: Sandra Cruz
Friday nights are meant for eating out, after working hard all week, as well as exploring our community and finding new eating spots, preferably locally owned. This time we ended up in downtown Brownsville to check out Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen, recommended by our neighbor Noelle who happens to be the manager.
Finding the restaurant was easy but finding a parking spot was not. It is hard to tell from the outside, but the interior is huge. The extensive bar area is the first thing you notice when you walk in, that should tell you that it is an important part of Terras. The spacious interior has enough tables for dining in and thankfully it is brightly lit and the background music is not too loud. There was no waiting time because we got there shortly after they opened, so the hostess sat us right away. Nothing says upscale restaurant like having to wait to be seated, then receiving a drink menu and having to use your QR scanner to get the food menu.
For my Friday night drink I ordered the Margarita ($6) even though my choices were decent. We ordered the Calabaza De Temporada ($8) and the American Wagyu Sirloin ($30) along with a Caesar Salad ($8) and a Strawberry Salad ($8). We were hoping for complimentary chips and salsa, or bread and butter, while we waited for the food but there was none so we ended up ordering the chips and salsa ($2). No iced tea either, just aguas frescas and Mexican soda pops. We received the salads first and were pleasantly surprised to see how big they are. Not only are the portions generous, but they are delicious and all the ingredients are fresh. The main dishes were excellent too, and even though the Calabaza De Temporada is just the basic squash, the taste is impressive, my compliments to the chef on such an incredibly tasty dish.
Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen is definitely worth the trip downtown. In a city filled with mostly taquerias and cookie cutter Mexican restaurants, this upscale restaurant offers an extensive drink menu and delectable dishes with flavors not often found in this region. Menu offerings include Coliflor Frita, Betabeles Enchilados, tacos (ribeye, cochinita pibil, porkbelly carnitas), and many more. A big thank you to Samarra, the waitress for the night and Noelle for taking the time to talk to us and answer our questions. The prices may be a little higher than most restaurants, but you get what you pay for. You can be reassured that we will be back soon. Remember: shop local, shop small. Your community will thank you.
In 2014, co-founders Christian Nevarez (Head Chef) and Juan Flores (Bar Manager) met working at a local restaurant. They shared a vision of creating a unique culinary and craft cocktail experience in Brownsville, Texas. They set up shop on Elizabeth St. in Historic Downtown Brownsville. Within a year of opening, Juan, Christian, and their staff brought a unique dining experience to Downtown Brownsville with creations like the Shrimp Molcajete, Pineapple Moscow Mule, Ribeye Mole, and Sangre de Azteca. Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen was established in 2016 under three driving forces: local, unique, and community. (Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen, 2021)
$ – $$$ Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen 1212 E Washington St. Brownsville, TX 78520
LIVE in the Garden: Azul Barrientos & Friends. Photo: San Antonio Botanical Garden
In harmony with the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s exciting new Frida Kahlo Oasis exhibition, celebrate Mexican culture and the icon herself through an exclusive concert series. On select Tuesdays, beginning in July on Frida’s birthday, the Botanical Garden invites you to enjoy an intimate evening featuring live performances on the lawn by San Antonio’s beloved singer/songwriter Azul Barrientos accompanied by fellow musicians, featuring different musical guests each concert. (San Antonio Botanical Garden, 2021)
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and there will be a variety of food and beverages available for purchase.
Live in the Garden: Azul Barrientos & Friends Tuesday July 6, August 3, September 7 and October 5 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. $25 ($22.50 for members)
Buy tickets to all four concerts and receive a 15% discount. Must be purchased before July 6 and cannot be combined with the member discount.
Taco Cabana celebrates Independence Day with all new Sonoran Hot Dogs and special beer bundles. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.
Starting Friday July 2, 2021, celebrate Independence Day all weekend long at Taco Cabana with two all-new Sonoran Hot Dogs while supplies last. TC fans can choose from Ground Beef or Bacon Sonoran Hot Dogs available a la carte for $2.99 at all participating Texas locations. Guests ages 21+ can purchase a hot dog and beer bundle, including a Sonoran hot dog + choice of domestic beer for $4.99 or a Sonoran hot dog + choice of premium beer for $5.49. (Taco Cabana, 2021)
This summer, TC continues to be the home of the $2 margarita. TC fans can enjoy their choice of eight margarita flavors, including Lime, Strawberry, Mango, Strawberry Mango, Mangonada, Blue Curacao, Watermelon, and Dragonfruit all day every day for just $2. The Pickle margarita is available at select Taco Cabanas for $2. Guests have the option to add chamoy at no additional cost. TC guests may also purchase gallon margaritas of Lime, Strawberry, and Mango for $34.99 or Blue Curacao for $36.99.
All menu items, including $2 margaritas and beer bundles, can be ordered online at TacoCabana.com or via the MYTC! App for convenient curbside pick-up. TC drive-throughs are open for food and alcohol purchases and Taco Cabana dining rooms and patios are open for on-site dining as well. Members of the MYTC! Loyalty Program also earn reward points for each alcoholic beverage purchase.
Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FRGI), was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in fresh Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, quesadillas, flautas, tacos, house-made flour tortillas and tortilla chips as well a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of beer and tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-throughs, curbside pick-up, delivery and catering. As of June 1, 2021, Taco Cabana operates 142 company-owned restaurants in Texas.
Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., owns, operates and franchises Pollo Tropical and Taco Cabana® restaurant brands. The brands specialize in the operation of fast casual/quick service restaurants that offer distinct and unique flavors with broad appeal at a compelling value. The brands feature fresh-made cooking, drive-thru service and catering.
‘On Your Feet!’ will run from June 25 – July 18 at the Woodlawn Theatre. Photo: Woodlawn Theatre
Opening this Friday June 25 is the Woodlawn Theatre’s performance of ‘On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan.’ This production will run until Sunday July 18, 2021. Tickets to the musical production that was on hold for over a year are now selling fast. Do not miss this opportunity to return to live theater with a show that will have you dancing in the aisles. Performances are on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3p.m. There will be no show on July 4. There will be a special 7p.m. performance on Thursday, July 15. Due to COVID-19 seating restrictions, all tickets are general admission and must be purchased in advance, online only. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. The Woodlawn Theatre Box Office is currently not conducting in-person or phone purchases. (Woodlawn Theatre, 2021)
‘On Your Feet!’ is the story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, two people who believed in their talent, their music and each other, and became an international sensation. Universally crowd-pleasing and uplifting, ‘On Your Feet!’ is a celebration of greatest hits that will have audiences dancing in the aisles. Featuring the songs “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “1-2-3,” “Live For Loving You,” “Conga,” and many more, ‘On Your Feet’ is a portrait of a legendary artist that reveals fierce determination and visionary creativity matched with the exhilarating energy of the Miami Sound Machine. Sponsored by KONO 101.1.
Director: Christopher Rodriguez Choreographer: Carla Sankey Music Director: Jaime Ramirez Assistant Choreographer: Jimmi Nelson-Reid
Cast: Gloria Estefan: Jillian Sainz Emilio Estefan: Miguel Ochoa Gloria Fajardo: Melissa Gonzalez Consuelo: Rita Duggan Jose Fajardo/Ensemble: Michael Rodriguez Rebecca Fajardo/Ensemble: Madeline Gutierrez Young Gloria: Ella Sofia Gonzalez Young Emilio/Nayib: Gavino Garcia/Ricardo Martinez
Special Community Nights: ASL Appreciation Night – Friday July 9 Pride Appreciation Night – Saturday July 3
During the run of ‘On Your Feet!’, Woodlawn Theatre is partnering with Girls Inc. SA and will be collecting in-kind donations on their behalf. Donation list includes crayons, pencil colors, washable markers (thick/thin), blunt scissors, construction paper, paint brushes, acrylic paint, glue sticks, white glue, watercolor paper, watercolor paints, glitter, pom poms, googly eyes, pipe cleaners, and construction paper.
Everyone over the age of two should wear a mask and practice social distancing while at the theater, including skipping a seat in between parties. Full COVID-19 policies available HERE.
Local favorite gift shop Feliz Modern announces new retail concept. Photo: Laura Alexandra, used with permission.
Pearl is excited to announce the addition of a new retail concept opening in August 2021, Rancho Diaz. Created by Feliz Modern owners, Ginger and Mario Diaz, Rancho Diaz is a high-end eclectic edit of vintage and modern pieces that nod to a desert modern aesthetic for foodies and home decor enthusiasts. The shop will feature a rotating curation of products and designs that will appeal to locals and tourists alike. (Rancho Diaz, 2021)
The Diaz’ latest endeavor combines their design backgrounds with their love for all things Mexico and Texas, with a definite nod to the flavor of their beloved hometown. Rancho Diaz will encompass 1,600 square feet of retail space and will feature small batch vintage finds mixed with newer replicas, including home decor, kitchenware, textiles, table linens, personal handmade accessories, gifts, plants, local art, and more. Rancho Diaz will be a one-stop shop for decor, special kitchen products, at-home entertaining, and dinner parties.
Patrons can expect a shop that feels like home, featuring warm woods and with one foot planted in San Antonio and the other in markets around Mexico and the world. The shop will also feature guest pop-ups that will rotate and highlight different makers and foodie-inspired finds throughout the year.
Owners Ginger and Mario Diaz started Feliz Modern in 2017 as a brick and mortar shop in San Antonio. Feliz Modern quickly became a local favorite for bringing local art to a wider audience, opening Feliz Modern POP at Pearl in 2019. The couple’s new concept, Rancho Diaz, will be located in the Pearl at 303 Pearl Pkwy, Suite 101, San Antonio, TX 78215, in the space formerly occupied by Leighelena. An exact opening date will be announced soon. For more information, visit Rancho Diaz online and follow along on social media
“Rancho Diaz is based on what Mario and I have in our 1930’s home, and what we dream about putting into a desert modern home someday… The style is West without being Western, with a heavy dose of our favorite handmade pieces from Mexico and around the world. Mario is a huge foodie and home chef, and we are excited about adding that aspect to this shop since it’s located in such a food-centric place like the Pearl.” – Rancho Diaz Co-Owner Ginger Diaz.
Pearl, located north of downtown San Antonio, provides a unique experience as a top culinary and cultural destination. The mixed-use space features retail, dining, picturesque green spaces, paseos riverside amphitheater, and the third campus of The Culinary Institute of America. As a former brewery operating from 1883 to 2001, Pearl reflects a vivid past while embracing the future with environmentally sustainable buildings mixed with historic architecture.
Twin Liquors has special sales just for Father’s Day. Photo: Twin Liquors, used with permission.
Twin Liquors is excited to announce that from now until Saturday, June 19, the Austin-based liquor store will be celebrating Father’s Day with sales on select whiskeys, spirits, and wine. Customers can save on top liquor brands such as Crown Royal, Highland Queen Majesty, Mr. Whiskey, and more. Treat yourself to a special bottle, or get a gift for the father figure in your life. Twin Liquors offers complimentary gift wrap and you can get it delivered right to Dad’s door. (Twin Liquors, 2021)
Additionally, be sure to also check out the Twin Liquors Summer Entertaining Guide designed to provide advice on hosting this summer season. Whether “Entertaining at Home” means making a nice meal for dad this weekend or having a few friends over for a backyard get-together, Twin Liquors has you covered with everything you need for beverages. Featuring cocktail combo packs with recipes, wine pairings, and tips for hosting, the entertaining guide has something for everyone.
The Father’s Day sale on select whiskeys, spirits, and wine will run through June 19. Twin Liquors is open Monday – Saturday from 10a.m. to 9p.m. Online hours are 11a.m. to 8p.m.
To find a Twin Liquors store near you visit Twin Liquors online. You may also through their website or Twin Liquors app, which is available on IOS and Android stores. Twin Liquors also offers online ordering and in-store pickup and/or delivery to all stores.
Born and raised in downtown Austin, Texas, Twin Liquors began as one small store and has developed into a successful “home-grown” Texas family-owned company. It has developed a unique and well-respected reputation throughout the United States for having impeccable team members, outstanding customer service, conveniently located stores, extensive selections of fine wines and premium spirits from around the world, and substantial community involvement. Twin Liquors currently operates 100+ neighborhood stores from Austin to San Antonio, the Hill Country to Houston, and the DFW area with their Sigel’s branded stores.
MedSpa treatments include Botox and Dysport Injectables, Dermal Fillers, Chemical Peels, and more. Photo: Molly Culver, used with permission.
Hiatus Spa + Retreat, the award-winning Texas day spa with eight locations across the state, is excited to announce their San Antonio location is adding MedSpa treatments to its extensive book of services starting Monday, June 14, 2021. Hiatus’ MedSpa services are helmed by Dr. Holly A. Barko, who is a double board-certified anesthesiologist; and anti-aging and function medicine expert and San Antonio Master Injector Melissa Schnelle, LVN. (Hiatus Spa + Retreat, 2021)
After a successful career in a private practice anesthesiology group, Dr. Holly Barko decided to study aesthetics, functional, and anti-aging medicine in order to intervene early and help patients look and feel younger, optimizing their wellness with a personalized care plan. San Antonio Master Injector Melissa Schnelle is a graduate from Galen College of Nursing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) in the state of Texas with a history in plastic surgery and the cosmetic industry. Bringing over 15 years of experience to Hiatus, Schnelle is an accomplished injector and facial-mapping artist who enjoys working with both men and women to achieve their desired aesthetic goals.
In celebration of the San Antonio MedSpa launching this month, Hiatus will offer H-Circle Member pricing on all MedSpa treatments now through July 17. H-Circle is a fresh subscription model that simplifies regular relaxation and empowers guests to own their self-care and enjoy affordable, regular access to a spa lifestyle. H-Circle members will receive the best pricing available on all MedSpa services. The membership is typically $69 per month, which includes special discounted pricing for members on all spa treatments and 10% off all retail products.
The Texas-born day spa will offer injectables, dermal fillers, dermaplaning, chemical peels, and micro-needling treatments, in addition to the fifty-plus signature spa treatments, all complete with a high-touch experience that is personalized from start to finish.
Hiatus’s MedSpa treatment descriptions are as follows:
Injectable Neurotoxins offered in either Botox or Dysport.
Dermal Fillers offered in either Juvederm or Restylane.
DermaPlaning features the removal of dead skin cells and facial hair to promote deeper product penetration, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and improve skin texture.
MicroNeedling features microneedles up to 2.5mm that stimulate collagen production and treat and improve acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, loose skin, skin texture, and pore size.
Medical-Grade Chemical Peels feature a variety of formulations and concentrations to target various skin concerns by resurfacing the uppermost layer of skin to reveal a new, healthy complexion underneath, encourage cell turnover, promote collagen, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hiatus Spa + Retreat was founded in Dallas in 2007 by longtime friends Sheila Garrison, Kristin Heaton Peabody, and Bill Garrison. With eight locations across Texas, eight years on Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies, and an innovative spa subscription model, Hiatus Spa + Retreat is a fresh kind of full-service spa that has changed the wellness industry. Powered by products with real green ingredients and a high-touch experience, Hiatus’s personalized approach to wellness is driven by the view that regular relaxation should be an empowering part of a healthy, happy lifestyle.
“We are so thrilled to expand our MedSpa offerings at our Pearl location in San Antonio. With the great success we’ve had with MedSpa treatments at our Inwood location, we knew that our San Antonio spa was next to continue these offerings. We can’t wait for Dr. Holly Barko and Melissa Schnelle to lead the MedSpa and introduce the treatments to our devoted H-Circle Members and new guests of the spa.” – Hiatus Co-Founder Sheila Garrison.
SA Examiner 