Esencia announces Lunar New Year celebration on February 24. Photo: Clint Walker, Charlie Walker Creative, used with permission.
Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse at Esencia
A Lunar New Year Celebration at The St. Anthony
The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, invites guests to an elevated culinary journey to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the newly opened restaurant, Esencia. The evening will blend tradition, prosperity, and community through the artistry of James Beard–nominated Chef Leo Davila. (St. Anthony, 2026)
Experience a thoughtfully curated, family-style dinner designed to honor the heritage of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The Evening’s Highlights
The festivities kick off with a lively cocktail hour followed by a traditional Lion Dance, a symbol of power and wisdom, before settling in for a multi-course feast.
Prosperity Crudo Platter: Smoked seafood, citrus ponzu, and house pickles.
Char Siu–Style Pork Belly: Served with leafy lettuce and a savory glaze.
Longevity Noodles: A unique blend of Texas Chinese BBQ and house chorizo.
Peking-Style Duck Breast: Accompanied by plum sauce and soft bao buns.
Golden Veggie Fried Rice: Topped with crispy garlic and sesame.
Event Schedule & Location
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Location: Esencia at The St. Anthony | 300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Schedule
5:30 – 6:30 PM | Cocktail Hour (Beverages available for purchase, with optional wine, cocktail, and sake packages)
6:30 – 7:00 PM | Traditional Lion Dance Performance
7:00 – 8:30 PM | Multi-Course Family-Style Dinner
Ticket Options
Choose the experience that best suits your evening. Please note that prices are subject to taxes and fees (++) and can be purchased via Eventbrite.
General Admission | $85++
Reserved seating for the evening’s festivities.
Discounted valet parking ($10).
The VIP Experience | $150++
Preferred seating for the dinner and performance.
Two complimentary cocktails during the cocktail hour.
Complimentary valet parking.
Reserve Your Table: Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this one-night-only celebration of unity and good fortune!
Jason Dady restaurants will offer romantic Valentine’s Day prix-fixe dinners. Photo: Jason Dady Restaurant Group, used with permission.
More Valentine’s Day Celebration Ideas to Love 💘
With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, there’s still time to plan a memorable weekend with that special someone, or gather your friends for a festive twist on romance. From indulgent spa days to rooftop dinners and Hill Country escapes, these experiences offer something for every kind of Valentine.
🌹 River Walk Romance at Four Brothers Southern Provisions
Soak in the River Walk’s charming atmosphere while dining at Four Brothers Southern Provisions at Omni La Mansión del Rio. Elevate the experience with a romantic overnight stay by booking the From Omni, With Love package. (Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2026)
Package highlights include:
A pre-arrival call with Omni’s Love Concierge
Sparkling wine and chocolates
A $50 date-night credit
Late check-out for lingering moments together
🖤 A “Heart-Slasher” Galentine’s Night
Four Brothers also puts a playful spin on Galentine’s Day with a horror-themed prix-fixe dinner inspired by Friday the 13th.
Featured menu items include:
Camp Crystal Lake Salad
Slasher Steak
Ki-Ki-Ki Ma-Ma-Ma — a white chocolate and red berry deconstruction of the film’s iconic mask
A perfect choice for friends who prefer their Valentine’s celebrations with a twist.
🍷 Wine & Bites at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches
For trendy wine lovers, explore the newly launched wine program at The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, just steps from the Pearl. This chic neighborhood café offers a curated selection of wines & bites, including N/A options, designed for relaxed, intimate evenings. (The Newstand Coffee and Sandwiches, 2026)
From lively bubbles to juicy reds, selections by certified sommelier and Beverage Director Austin Tabbone set the tone for connection, conversation, and romance.
🌿 Hill Country Bliss at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness
Escape downtown and head to the Texas Hill Country for rejuvenation at Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness at Signia by Hilton La Cantera.(Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, 2026)
The Endless Love Package transports guests to a serene oasis and includes a sweet sip of Blush Cotton Candy Bubbly, because Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without candy-inspired indulgence. Ideal for couples, friends, or a solo self-love retreat.
💞 A Romance-Infused Retreat at Hyatt Regency Hill Country
The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, set across 300 scenic acres, is offering a Valentine’s weekend escape designed for relaxation and connection. (Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, 2026)
Highlights include:
A special romance package
Spa experiences
A “’Til Death Do Us Part” murder mystery event
A romantic dinner for two at Antlers Lodge
🌙 Elevated Valentine’s Weekend at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
This February, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalksets the scene for a chic Valentine’s escape with elevated dining and indulgent in-room experiences. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2026)
Romantic in-room packages ranging from Sweetheart Haven to Lovers Luxe Escape, featuring champagne, caviar, spa-inspired amenities, and immersive décor
💆♀️ Restorative Relaxation at Oak Haven Massage
Treat your loved one to therapeutic relaxation at Oak Haven Massage, known for its nurturing, wellness-focused approach. (Oak Haven Massage, 2026)
Valentine’s Offer | Now through February 13
$99 — 50-minute Tier 1 massage (save $16)
$155 — 80-minute Tier 1 massage (save $20)
$15 — 25-minute sauna session (save $15)
Post-Valentine’s Offer | February 15 The same promotions return for those extending the celebration, or making up for a missed holiday.
Appointments can be booked online or by phone at Oak Haven’s Alamo Heights, Bulverde, or Huebner locations.
🍽️ Prix-Fixe Dinners with Jason Dady Restaurant Group
The Jason Dady Restaurant Group will offer chef-curated, multi-course prix-fixe Valentine’s dinners, complete with optional wine pairings, at the following locations:
In partnership with The Rock at La Cantera’s Flirty Flix, Roca & Martillo will also offer charcuterie and cheese spreads for two, available at the Roca bar window. Guests can enjoy lawn screenings of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Sweet Home Alabama, beginning at 5 p.m.
Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a spa day steeped in self-care, or a Galentine’s night with a little edge, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate love in all its forms. So grab the reservations, cue the champagne (or mocktails), and make a weekend of it—because romance doesn’t have to be predictable to be unforgettable. 💕
Mezquite Spread. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day Dining Guide: Romantic & Relaxed Restaurant Offerings
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Pullman Market’s offerings range from high-end, special-occasion dining experiences at Isidore and Nicosi to relaxed, approachable options at Fife & Farro and the Mezcaleria—ensuring there’s something for every kind of celebration. (Pullman Market, 2026)
Mezquite’s Sonoran-Inspired Valentine’s Dinner for Two
Mezquite’s Valentine’s Day menu draws from the rich flavors and traditions of Sonoran cuisine. Crafted for two, the dinner invites couples to savor each course and enjoy a relaxed, intimate evening together. Thoughtful dishes and warm hospitality set the tone for a cozy, memorable night.
For those looking to keep things casual, the Mezcaleria offers a laid-back way to celebrate. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight, the bar will be serving cocktails, food, and good energy all day long—perfect for a spontaneous date, a Galentine’s toast, or a nightcap to end the evening.
Walk-ins only
Nicosi’s Specialty Valentine’s Day Experience
At Nicosi, Valentine’s Day is centered around connection and indulgence. The Michelin Star dessert tasting menu concept will offer a one-night-only, multi-course experience exclusive to the holiday, encouraging guests to savor each moment together.
Price: $200 per guest
Includes: Choice of non-alcoholic pairing or wine & cocktail pairing
Isidore welcomes guests for a Michelin Star Valentine’s celebration with an elegant eight-course tasting menu. An optional wine pairing is also available, thoughtfully selected to complement each course and elevate the evening.
Fife & Farro at Pullman Market offers a more laid-back way to celebrate, featuring wood-fired sourdough pizzas and handmade pastas made with heritage grains.
Reservations: Available via OpenTable for Valentine’s Day only (Note: Reservations are not typically offered at Fife & Farro)
Same-day diners: Encouraged to join the waitlist
Walk-ins: Always welcome
Valentine’s Day Dining Around San Antonio & New Braunfels
San Antonio and New Braunfels’ premier restaurants—including Clementine, Maverick Texas Brasserie, Muck & Fuss, and more—are offering curated menus and intimate ambiance designed to create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day.
Clementine, the Castle Hills neighborhood gem is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a chef-driven prix-fixe dinner designed for lingering conversations and shared moments. Offered February 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the menu reflects James Beard Award finalist John Russ’s Southern roots and global sensibility, balancing bold comfort with refined elegance.
The downtown New Braunfels restaurant is celebrating Valentine’s Day for everyone, offering two prix-fixe menus welcoming couples, solo diners, and families alike—honoring romance, self-love, and quality time.
For a nightcap or post-dinner outing, guests can step next door to Sidecar, known for its vintage speakeasy vibe and live music. For the holiday, Sidecar will feature a curated menu of shareable bites and cocktails, including:
Southtown’s contemporary Mexican restaurant is spreading the love with the return of its popular Galentine-ARITA cocktail, available February 13–15. Made with El Tequileno, this pink, sparkling margarita is a festive favorite.
Rosario’s and El Tequileno are also hosting a Valentine’s Day giveaway for a free dinner for two, running through February 11, with details and the winner announced on Instagram.
Tip: Calling ahead or joining the waitlist is highly recommended for Valentine’s Day dining
Pearl’s first ever Cowboy Heritage Festival is taking place this Saturday. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.
February Happenings at Pearl
From Rodeo Festivities to Valentine’s Weekend Fun
Pearl is kicking off February in true Texas style—with boots, bands, murals, and plenty of reasons to linger all month long. From the inaugural Cowboy Heritage Festival to Valentine’s Day celebrations, here’s everything happening at Pearl this February. (Pearl, 2026)
🤠 Cowboy Heritage Festival
Saturday, February 7 | 3–7 p.m.
Pearl debuts its first-ever Cowboy Heritage Festival, celebrating vaquero culture with live music, roaming performers, art, and rodeo-inspired fun throughout the property.
Festival Highlights
Chuck wagon photo opportunities
Live music across multiple stages
Free boot shining
Trick roper and cowboy & cowgirl stilt walkers
Live mural painting by San Antonio muralist Claudio Aguillon, titled The Vaquero (Cellars Pavilion)
📍 Event Locations & Schedules
1100 Springs Plaza
Rodeo Roundup Edition of the Pearl Farmers Market
Craft workshop with Sharriah Martinez (3–6 p.m.)
Make cowboy boot magnets (while supplies last)
Live music:
Gelina & The Diamondbacks (3–4:15 p.m.)
Jacob Kyle Band (4:45–7 p.m.)
Stable Hall
Free boot shining
Live music by Brandon Michael Band (3–4:45 p.m.)
Parkito(between Local Coffee and Bakery Lorraine)
Favorite Son Band (3–4:30 p.m.)
Jake Castillo Trio (5–7 p.m.)
South Karnes Street
Trick roper and stilt walkers roaming (3–5 p.m.)
Meet & Greet with Miss Rodeo Texas Princess (3–4:30 p.m.)
Live music by Drew Brown Band (5–7 p.m.)
Pearl Park
Chuck wagon photo op
The Vaquero mural installation
Line dancing (3–5 p.m.)
Brandon Michael Band returns (5:30–7 p.m.)
La Gloria
San Antonio Charro Association appearance (2–5 p.m.)
Whether you’re two-stepping under the stars, shopping for the perfect rodeo look, or celebrating Valentine’s Day with live music and great food, Pearl is the place to be this February. With events happening nearly every day of the month, there’s always a reason to stop by, stay awhile, and experience the energy that makes Pearl a favorite gathering spot in San Antonio.
Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Super Bowl Sunday Specials: Where to Eat, Drink & Watch the Big Game in San Antonio
Super Bowl Sunday is almost here, and locally owned restaurants and bars across San Antonio and New Braunfels are bringing the heat with food deals, drink specials, and high-energy watch parties. From rooftop margaritas to wing specials and projector-screen viewing, here’s where to celebrate the Big Game on Sunday, February 8.
🍹 Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar (Southtown)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Football fans can enjoy half-off appetizers all day long at Rosario’s, available exclusively at the main bar and rooftop bar. The restaurant is also debuting The Benito Bowl, a blue frozen margarita inspired by this year’s halftime performer, Bad Bunny. (Rosario’s, 2026)
Both bars feature massive flat-screen TVs for optimal game viewing. The 25+ rooftop bar will also host its weekly Cozy Up Sundays, featuring $8 signature cocktails and bites.
📍 Walk-ins welcome | No reservations required
🦀 Smashin Crab (All Locations)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Smashin Crab is closing out football season strong with $1 wings all day, available for dine-in or takeout at all three locations, perfect for hosting your own watch party at home. (Smashin Crab, 2026)
Each restaurant is decked out with wall-to-wall TVs, and guests can also enjoy 2-for-1 Hurricanes, available through February 17.
🍻 Finnegan’s Sports & Spirits
All Day Sunday Happy Hour
Finnegan’s is keeping it simple and fun with all-day happy hour and beer bucket specials, including:
$4 Margaritas
$5 Bloody Marys
$15 Domestic Beer Buckets
A laid-back spot to sip, snack, and settle in for the game. (Finnegan’s, 2026)
Catch the game on TVs throughout the restaurant or on the projector screen in the Biergarten, while sipping from a lineup of 38 draft beers featuring top local and national breweries. (Muck & Fuss, 2026)
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Kick off Super Bowl Sunday at Corinne’s bar with game-day drink specials, including Bloody Marys, mimosas, beer specials, and an All Day Happy Hour Menu.
Snack on crowd favorites like buffalo cauliflower, regular wings, or a Trio Dip (guacamole, queso, salsa) while watching the game on two big screens. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)
Sunday, February 8 | Game at 5:30 PM | Trivia: 2–4 PM
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Anaqua Garden Bar is hosting a full-scale Super Bowl watch party with multiple projector screens with sound, theater-style seating, and plenty of food and drink.
The party starts early with trivia from 2–4 PM, featuring questions on Bad Bunny and 2026 Super Bowl commercials.
📍 Interior Courtyard, 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Dean’s is extending happy hour drink specials all day in its comfortable interior courtyard. Watch the game on two TVs with sound while enjoying upscale-casual vibes, great drinks, and shareable bites. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, 2026)
Paris Baguette is serving up football-themed sweets, including the King Creme Football Donut and Triple Chocolate Football Cream Cake. Donuts are available daily, while cakes are offered for weekend orders (preorders encouraged). (The Gunter Hotel, 2026)
Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept is the ultimate riverside spot for Super Bowl Sunday. Enjoy ice-cold drinks, hearty favorites like Cantina Queso, the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger, and Otto’s Last Shot, all while watching the game on multiple indoor and outdoor TVs. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
Whether you’re craving wings, rooftop cocktails, or a full watch-party vibe, San Antonio’s local spots are bringing their A-game this Super Bowl Sunday. 🏈
The Titans of Tailgate event supports San Antonio high school culinary programs. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Titans of Tailgate Returns to San Antonio for Its 9th Year
Chef Jason Dady and Culinaria are proud to present the ninth annual Titans of Tailgate, presented by Wrangler Air Conditioning, taking place Sunday, February 1, from 1–4 p.m. at The Rock at La Cantera. (Jason Dady Restaurant Group, 2026)
This high-energy, chef-driven event brings together more than 30 of San Antonio’s top chefs for an afternoon celebrating food, flavor, and community—all while supporting local high school culinary programs.
A Chef-Fueled Grilling Showdown
Hosted by Chef Jason Dady, Titans of Tailgate is the ultimate grilling throwdown, featuring some of the city’s most respected culinary talent, including:
PJ Edwards (Meadow Neighborhood Eatery)
Berty Richter (Ladino)
Esaul Ramos (2M Smokehouse)
Nicola Blaque (The Jerk Shack)
And many more
Chefs will compete head-to-head for the coveted title of “Titan of Tailgate,” blending tailgate spirit with bold, chef-driven creativity.
Supporting the Next Generation of Chefs
Representatives from six local high schools will join the professional chefs, reinforcing the event’s mission of mentorship and community investment. Guests will enjoy:
Unlimited tastings
Drinks and interactive experiences
The chance to vote for their favorite bite
Proceeds from the event directly support San Antonio high school culinary programs, helping fund equipment, prep materials, and educational resources.
Event Details
📍 Location The Rock at La Cantera 1 Spurs Way San Antonio, TX 78256
🎟 Ticket Pricing
Under 21: $50
General Admission: $85
VIP: $150
For more information and to purchase tickets, click the link here.
About Jason Dady Restaurant Group
Since 2001, Texas native Chef Jason Dady, a James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist and frequent Food Network and Travel Channel expert, has helped redefine San Antonio’s culinary culture. In July 2025, he was named one of six chef ambassadors representing San Antonio as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Led by Chef Dady alongside his brother Jake and wife Crystal, the Jason Dady Restaurant Group includes nine acclaimed restaurants, as well as catering and event services.
About Culinaria
CULINARIA is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting San Antonio as a premier food and wine destination. Since 2000, Culinaria has championed locally sourced food, culinary education, and community-driven events that enrich the Alamo City. Proceeds from its events directly support this mission, helping Culinaria remain largely self-sustaining.
The celebration will include a fireworks display on its Hill Country Golf Club. Photo: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, used with permission.
New Year’s Eve in San Antonio: Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort Celebrations
Looking for New Year’s Eve celebrations in San Antonio that offer something for everyone? Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas is hosting one of the most versatile and festive San Antonio NYE events, featuring an adults-only party, family-friendly activities, dining experiences, and a fireworks display set in the Texas Hill Country. (Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas, 2025)
Located just minutes from downtown San Antonio, this newly renovated resort spans 300 scenic acres and provides an ideal getaway for locals and visitors looking to ring in the New Year in style.
Adults-Only New Year’s Eve Party in San Antonio: “Denim and Diamonds”
For couples and groups seeking a glamorous adults-only New Year’s Eve party in San Antonio, the resort’s exclusive “Denim and Diamonds” celebration delivers a high-energy night of entertainment.
Hosted in one of the resort’s upgraded ballrooms, the event includes:
Live music and a DJ
Dancing throughout the evening
A dinner buffet
An open bar
At midnight, guests gather on the Hill Country Golf Club for a champagne toast and fireworks display, making this one of the most memorable NYE events near San Antonio.
New Year’s Eve Hotel Package in San Antonio
The New Year’s Eve Celebration Packageis perfect for those wanting to stay overnight and avoid driving home after midnight. The package includes:
Overnight accommodations in a newly renovated guestroom
Admission for two to the adults-only “Denim and Diamonds” event
Single-event tickets are also available for those who want to attend the party without booking a stay.
Booking tip: Select a December 31 stay date on the resort’s website and use offer code 25NYE.
Family-Friendly New Year’s Eve Events in San Antonio
The all-ages NYE party in the Independence Ballroom features:
Kids’ activities and games
A bounce house
Indoor and outdoor entertainment
A DJ and festive atmosphere
This makes the resort a strong option for parents searching for New Year’s Eve events in San Antonio for kids.
Dining Options for New Year’s Eve in San Antonio
Guests can celebrate with food and drinks throughout the property, including:
A festive holiday buffet at Springhouse Café
Chef-driven dining at Antlers Lodge
A lively evening at Charlie’s Long Bar
Cocktails and light bites at Woodbine Bar in the hotel lobby
These dining options make Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort a one-stop destination for New Year’s Eve dining in San Antonio.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in San Antonio
At midnight, all resort guests are invited to enjoy a spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display over the Hill Country Golf Club—one of the most scenic NYE fireworks experiences near San Antonio.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas
Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. San Antonio, TX 78251 Phone: (210) 647-1234
About the Resort
The newly renovated Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Villas sits on the historic Rogers-Wiseman family ranch, a working Texas ranch for over a century. With 502 guest rooms, ranch-inspired design, and convenient access to San Antonio International Airport and downtown attractions, the resort blends Texas Hill Country charm with upscale comfort, making it a standout destination for New Year’s Eve getaways in San Antonio.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in San Antonio. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day in San Antonio
Whether you’re looking for rooftop fireworks, elegant prix-fixe dinners, or a cozy New Year’s Day recovery brunch, San Antonio offers plenty of memorable ways to ring in 2026. Here’s your guide to the city’s standout New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day celebrations.
🎆 Events at Pearl
New Year’s Eve at Pearl – Stable Hall
December 31 | 8 PM Ring in the new year with The Texases, a lively country cover band performing the final show of 2025, and the first of 2026, at the iconic Stable Hall. Tickets available here. (Pearl, 2025)
Cellar Select New Year’s Eve Dinner Featuring Eagle Rare 25
December 31 | 7 PM Hotel Emma celebrates its 10th anniversary with an exclusive NYE dining experience featuring Eagle Rare 25. Guests also receive wristbands for entry to the annual Sternewirth NYE Party. Tickets available here.
🌃 Rooftop & Skyline Celebrations
Light Up the Night: Rosario’s Rooftop New Year’s Eve Countdown
December 31 | 8:30 PM – 1:30 AM Celebrate 2026 with sweeping skyline views from Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar’s rooftop in Southtown. Enjoy live beats by DJ Kenzo, craft cocktails, curated bites, and front-row views of the city’s New Year’s fireworks. (Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2025)
December 31 | 5 PM – 9 PM Chefs John and Elise Russ host a four-course prix-fixe dinner to close out 2025. Each guest receives a complimentary glass of champagne to toast the new year. (Clementine, 2025) Reservations recommended via OpenTable.
Jots at The Gunter Hotel: NYE Chef’s Signature Dinner
December 31 | 5 PM – 10 PM $80++ per person Includes a three-course chef-curated dinner and a glass of Duc de Chagny at Jots. (Gunter Hotel, 2025) 📍 311 N St. Mary’s St.
VIP Tables: $250 (up to 4 guests) or $500 (up to 10 guests)
Toast & Stay NYE Experience
Stay overnight and welcome 2026 in style with this special NYE hotel package.
NYE Fireworks via Private Balcony
Celebrate the new year with a direct view of the Tower of the Americas fireworks from a private balcony, perfect for out-of-town guests. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)
Kimpton Santo: The NYE Skyline Stay
Celebrate, stay, and recover. This NYE hotel package includes overnight accommodations and easy access to Tenfold’s rooftop celebration—plus a relaxed New Year’s Day experience.
Step into old-world glamour with a Gold, Glitz & Glamour–themed celebration featuring DJs, roaming performers, chef-crafted bites, and a midnight countdown. Tickets here. (St. Anthony Hotel, 2025)
January 1 | 7 AM – 11 AM | $21 A comfort-forward breakfast featuring braised short ribs, pork belly, Yukon potatoes, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, and a sunny-side-up egg. 📍 The Gunter Hotel
✨ From rooftop revelry to refined dinners and restorative breakfasts, San Antonio offers something for every kind of New Year’s celebration. Cheers to 2026!
La Panadería to Celebrate Stone Oak Grand Opening on December 17. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
San Antonio’s food scene continues to grow, and Stone Oak residents now have a new reason to celebrate. One of the city’s most beloved bakeries, La Panadería, is officially opening its newest, and largest, location in North San Antonio. Known for its authentic Mexican pastries, fresh-baked bread, and all-day café menu, the James Beard–nominated bakery is bringing its signature flavors and community-driven atmosphere to the Stone Oak area just in time for the holidays. (La Panadería, 2025)
La Panadería Opens Its Largest Location Yet in Stone Oak
La Panadería, beloved for its authentic Mexican pastries, tortas, and all-day café fare, is officially expanding once again in San Antonio.
The bakery will celebrate the grand opening of its newest Stone Oak location on Wednesday, December 17, inviting the public to join in a festive ribbon-cutting event filled with music, special guests, and community celebration.
Grand Opening Celebration Details
📍 Location: Stone Oak 📍 Address: 1011 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, TX 78232
🗓 Wednesday, December 17, 2025 ⏰ 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Event Highlights:
DJ and live festivities
UTSA Cheerleaders
Ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m.
First look at the new space and La Panadería’s newest mascot
A Major Milestone for La Panadería
The Stone Oak opening marks La Panadería’s largest location to date, spanning an impressive 6,600 square feet and offering 100 dedicated parking spaces for guests.
This expansion represents:
💼 100 new jobs created in San Antonio
🏗 $3.5 million investment into the space
📍 The fifth La Panadería location in the city
What’s on the Menu?
Guests can expect the same crowd-favorite offerings La Panadería is known for, including:
The Stone Oak opening also introduces Don Lino, La Panadería’s very first mascot.
Don Lino is a heartfelt tribute to the generations of bakers who inspired the Cáceres family’s craft. Named after a legendary baker from the brothers’ childhood stories in Mexico City, Don Lino represents the warmth, tradition, and artistry behind every loaf of bread.
With his signature mustache and dimpled smile, Don Lino embodies:
Early-morning dedication
The scent of fresh bread
The enduring spirit of La Panadería
The Don Lino story was written by Emiliano Cáceres Manzano, son of co-founder José Cáceres. Guests can meet Don Lino for the very first time during the Stone Oak grand opening.
Jose & David Caceres + Don Lino Photo: La Panadería
Holiday Seasonal Treats & Drinks
La Panadería is also celebrating the holiday season with two festive, limited-time offerings, available at all locations:
🎄 Seasonal Specials
Horchata Cold Foam Latte | $7.50 Smooth cold brew topped with house-made horchata cold foam, infused with vanilla and cinnamon, and finished with freshly grated nutmeg.
Abuelita Chocolate Tiramisu | $11.50 A cinnamon-kissed twist on the classic tiramisu, blending espresso and mascarpone with Kahlúa and rich Abuelita Chocolate.
🗓 Available now through New Year’s 📍 Limited in-store availability
Hotel Contessa is lighting up the season with a front-row parade watch party and its first-ever tree lighting on the River Terrace. Photo: Hotel Contessa, used with permission.
🎄 San Antonio Weekend Holiday Events Roundup
The holiday season is officially underway in San Antonio, and this weekend is packed with festive celebrations across the city. From tree lightings to river parades, here’s where to find the magic.
✨ Gunter Hotel Tree Lighting Ceremony
📅 Saturday, November 29 | ⏰ 2–3 p.m. 📍 205 East Houston Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
Kick off the holidays at the historic Gunter Hotel, where a dazzling 16-foot Christmas tree will take center stage in the lobby. Enjoy a special performance by the talented Kingwood High School carolers from Houston, and warm up with complimentary sweet treats and hot cocoa. It’s the perfect blend of cheer, music, and community spirit in the heart of downtown. (Gunter Hotel, 2025)
🎉 Ácenar HotMex & CoolBar: River Parade Viewing
📅 Friday, November 28 📍 146 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Riverside Seating – $28/person Up-close views with a dedicated server for cocktail orders.
Riverfront Patio Dining – $70 minimum per person A more elevated experience complete with Ácenar’s contemporary Mexican cuisine and crafted cocktails.
Reservations are required and seating is limited. To book, call (210) 222-2362.
🌟 Hotel Contessa: Parade Watch Party & First Annual Tree Lighting
📅 Friday, November 28 | ⏰ 5–7 p.m. 📍 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Hotel Contessa is lighting up the season with a front-row parade watch party and its first-ever tree lighting on the River Terrace. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)
Marriage Island VIP – $85 (includes upgraded seating, complimentary beverage & valet)
Tree lighting begins at 6:30 p.m., with the parade passing by shortly after 7 p.m.
🍸 Hotel Contessa: Ford Holiday VIP Terrace Party
📅Friday, November 28 | ⏰5:30–9 p.m. Guests 21+ can upgrade their night with exclusive terrace access overlooking the River Walk. $75 per ticket includes:
Two handcrafted cocktails
Chef-inspired appetizers
Live holiday DJ
Luxury crafting station
Express massages from the Spa at Hotel Contessa
Raffle entry for a 2026 one-night stay
Note: Limited parade views from the terrace; 15% off parade seating with code VIP.
🍽️ Ambler: VIP Parade Dining Experience
📅Friday, November 28 | ⏰5–9:30 p.m. Ambler’s private dining experience includes prime parade views, a three-course dinner, valet parking, and premium drinks.
Pricing:
Table of Four – $600
Individual Tickets – $175
Kids menu available.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy tree lighting or an unforgettable River Walk parade experience, San Antonio is sparkling with ways to celebrate. Bundle up, grab some cocoa, and enjoy the start of the season! 🎅✨
SA Examiner 