Category: Culinary News

Veterans Day Specials from Chef Nicola Blaque and H-E-B

On Tuesday November 11, H-E-B will distribute gift bags to veterans inside their stores. Photo: H-E-B, used with permission.

Honoring Veterans Day with Chef Nicola Blaque and H-E-B

Every year on November 11, we pause to honor Veterans Day, a time to recognize the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day reminds us that freedom comes at a cost, and it’s an opportunity to express gratitude to those who have sacrificed to protect it. From community parades to acts of service and remembrance, Veterans Day is about acknowledging courage, resilience, and dedication that continue to inspire generations.

This year, in celebration of Veterans Day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, James Beard-nominated chef and U.S. Army veteran Nicola Blaque invites veterans and community members to come together over good food and shared appreciation. (The Jerk Shack/Freight Fried Chicken, 2025)

Celebrate with Chef Nicola Blaque

At her award-winning San Antonio restaurants, The Jerk Shack and Freight Fried Chicken, Chef Blaque is offering a special way to honor veterans, with a comforting fried chicken plate for just $10.

The Jerk Shack will feature its island-style fried chicken paired with bold Caribbean sides like pineapple slaw and masala fries.

Freight Fried Chicken will serve its signature boneless fried chicken plate, highlighting classic Southern flavors with sides such as mac ’n cheese, seasoned fries, and fried corn.

📍 The Jerk Shack
10234 TX-151, Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251
🕚 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025

📍 Freight Fried Chicken
312 Pearl Pkwy, Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215
🕙 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025

About Chef Nicola Blaque

Lattoia Nicola Massey, known professionally as Chef Nicola Blaque, is a proud veteran, chef, and restaurateur based in San Antonio, Texas. Her Jamaican-inspired restaurant, The Jerk Shack, quickly became a local favorite after opening in 2018, earning a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin Guide in 2024.

In early 2024, she expanded her culinary footprint with Freight Fried Chicken, located in the Pearl district, a restaurant that pays homage to the formerly enslaved women who sold fried chicken in post-Civil War Virginia to support themselves and their families.

H-E-B’s Ongoing Commitment to Veterans

On Veterans Day and every day, H-E-B Partners across Texas honor the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans and their families through Operation Appreciation, a companywide initiative launched in 2013. (H-E-B, 2025)

This year, H-E-B stores across the state will distribute gift bags filled with H-E-B brand items and notes of gratitude to veterans both in stores and at local nonprofits such as VFW and American Legion posts.

Through Operation Appreciation, H-E-B has contributed over $17 million to military-based nonprofits in Texas, supported employment for more than 30,000 veterans and military spouses, and even provided mortgage-free homes to severely wounded veterans.

Customers can also give back by purchasing items from the Café Ole by H-E-B Commemorative Collection, with $0.35 from every purchase donated to military nonprofits across Texas.

A Shared Moment of Gratitude

Veterans Day is more than a holiday, it’s a moment to come together as a community to say thank you. Whether through a warm meal, a handwritten note, or a simple act of kindness, every gesture helps honor those who’ve served.

This Veterans Day, celebrate courage, community, and connection, one plate at a time.

Photo: Ann Compositions, used with permission.

San Antonio’s Dazzling Día de los Muertos Celebrations

Monumental Botanical Fridas. Photo: Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Celebrate Día de los Muertos in San Antonio: Luxury, Culture, and Flavor

San Antonio is known for honoring its rich Mexican heritage in spectacular ways, and this year, two of the city’s most iconic hotels are taking Día de los Muertos celebrations to new heights. From stunning art installations to tequila-paired dinners and runway shows, here’s what awaits you at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa and Omni La Mansión del Rio. (Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa/Omni La Mansión del Rio, 2025)

🌹 La Reina de La Vida at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Location: Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa

On Saturday, November 1, 2025, Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa will transform into a one-night-only “La Reina de La Vida” (The Queen of Life) experience, an immersive celebration of Día de Los Muertos that honors Mexican culture through art, fashion, cuisine, and music. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion and fully embrace the vibrant spirit of the holiday.

Evening Highlights

  • 5:30 p.m. — Cocktail Reception & Runway Showcase
    The evening begins in the resort’s lobby with craft cocktails featuring Volcan de Mi Tierra Tequila, followed by a Runway Showcase by iLaCatrina at Plaza San Saba.
  • 6:30 p.m. — La Catrina Glamour Experience
    Guests can indulge in professional Catrina makeup styling and enjoy a private photoshoot, leaving with five high-resolution keepsake images.
  • 8:00 p.m. — Five-Course Dinner at Primero Terrace
    Hosted by Volcan de Mi Tierra Tequila and presented by Chef Abraham Proa of Primero Cantina, this exquisite meal includes a tequila cocktail paired with each course.

Additional Offerings

Throughout the weekend, Volcan Tequila will feature limited-time specialty drinks at the resort’s restaurants, including Sire Bar, SweetFire Kitchen, Club Se7en, and Primero Cantina, available through Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Art & Culture

Don’t miss the Monumental Botanical Fridas, a series of Frida Kahlo-inspired sculptures crafted from fiberglass, resin, and acrylic paint, vibrant, bold, and free to the public through Sunday, November 2.

The resort will also feature an honorary ofrenda curated by Gabriela Gamez, showcasing the stunning Day of the Dead on My Mind painting by artist Kathy Sosa, a 5-foot-tall masterpiece depicting a powerful female figure wearing a traditional hand-embroidered huipil, symbolizing resilience, unity, and strength.

💀 Omni La Mansión del Rio: Dos Calaveras & Día de los Muertos Delights

Location: 112 College St, San Antonio, TX

Right along the iconic River Walk, Omni La Mansión del Rio is embracing the spirit of Día de los Muertos with cultural displays, handcrafted cocktails, and festive food offerings.

Ofrenda to Lydia Mendoza

The hotel’s lobby now features a beautifully adorned Día de Los Muertos altar (ofrenda) honoring Lydia Mendoza, the legendary San Antonio singer-guitarist known as “La Alondra de la Frontera.” Her legacy of giving voice, hope, and dignity to the Mexican community is celebrated in this heartfelt tribute.

Dos Calaveras Pop-Up Bar

A must-visit this season, the hotel’s signature El Colegio Bar has been transformed into “Dos Calaveras,” a lively pop-up running through Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Sip on limited-time cocktails created in partnership with Maestro Dobel Tequila, including the Pan de Muerto Flip ($16), a creamy blend of cinnamon, vanilla, orange bitters, and nutmeg that nods to the traditional sweet bread of the season.

Festive Food Offerings

The themed menu at Dos Calaveras includes:

  • 🍔 The Ofrenda Burger: Pan De Muerto bun, chorizo-beef patty, Oaxaca cheese, mole negro aioli, candied pepitas, and pickled onions, served with chili-dusted fries.
  • 🌮 La Calavera Brisket Tacos
  • 🍖 Elote “Catrina” Ribs

Perfect for those exploring downtown’s Día de los Muertos festivities, these dishes combine bold flavors and cultural creativity.

Family-Friendly Dining

For a more relaxed dining experience, visit Four Brothers, Omni’s in-house South Texan restaurant, where a newly refreshed menu includes highlights like:

  • Smoked Dino Rib
  • Bexar Cornbread
  • Chicken Osso Buco with butternut squash and cheese-filled agnolotti pasta

🌼 Celebrate Life, Culture, and Community

From the luxury hills of La Cantera to the historic charm of the River Walk, San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos celebrations offer a perfect blend of art, cuisine, and cultural connection. Whether you’re dressing as La Catrina, savoring tequila pairings, or simply admiring the ofrendas, this weekend promises to be a feast for the senses and the soul.

Sweet Traditions: La Panadería Unveils Its Fall Pan Dulce and Día de Muertos Treats

La Panadería’s Pink Pan de Muerto. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

🍂 Celebrate Fall with La Panadería’s New Seasonal Pan Dulce and Día de los Muertos Specials

La Panadería is excited to announce the launch of its fall-inspired pan dulce lineup—just in time for cooler weather and Día de los Muertos celebrations! This season, the bakery brings bold, comforting flavors to its beloved collection of pastries with two standout creations you won’t want to miss. (La Panadería, 2025)

🎃 Pumpkin Concha — $4.70

Back by popular demand!
The Pumpkin Concha returns with La Panadería’s signature pillowy concha base, topped with a festive orange cookie crust and filled with a rich, spiced pumpkin filling made from real pumpkin purée. It’s a cozy fall favorite and the perfect pairing for the bakery’s Maple Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte.

🗓 Available: Now through Thanksgiving (November 27) at all La Panadería locations.

💀 Dubai Chocolate Pan de Muerto — $7.50

New this year!
Introducing the Dubai Chocolate Pan de Muerto, a luxurious twist on the traditional Day of the Dead bread. This personal-sized pan de muerto is flavored with orange essence, dusted in sugar, sliced open, and generously filled with house-made Nutella and pistachio ganache made from real ground pistachios. Finished with chopped pistachios, it’s an indulgent, limited-time treat.

🗓 Available: In limited daily quantities through Día de Muertos weekend (November 2) at all four La Panadería locations, while supplies last.

🕯 Pan de Muerto Pre-Order Details

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with La Panadería’s family-size and mini Pan de Muerto loaves, available for pre-order online.

Pre-Order Here
Pre-orders open: Wednesday, October 22

🍞 Available Items & Pricing

  • Family Size Regular Pan de Muerto – $25.00
  • Family Size Pink Pan de Muerto – $27.50
  • Mini 6-Pack Regular Pan de Muerto – $25.00
  • Mini 6-Pack Pink Pan de Muerto – $30.00

📦 Pick-Up Dates

  • Friday, October 31
  • Saturday, November 1
  • Sunday, November 2

✨ The vibrant pink Pan de Muerto—a customer favorite—returns this year in both family-size and mini options. The classic mini and personal-sized Pan de Muerto are also available year-round in-store, no pre-order required.

☕ Fall-Inspired Lattes

Round out your visit with La Panadería’s new cold foam latte lineup, featuring comforting seasonal flavors:

  • Abuelita Chocolate
  • Dubai Chocolate
  • Pumpkin

These handcrafted drinks are the perfect pairing to a sweet slice of Pan de Muerto, making every visit a delicious way to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Dubai Chocolate Pan de Muerto. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Fall Flavors in San Antonio: Pumpkin Lattes, Fiesta Drinks & Live Fire Dining

Twang launches new Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt with red, white, and green visuals. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Fall Flavors & Festivities in San Antonio

As the fall season approaches, San Antonio is brimming with festive flavors and seasonal celebrations. From pumpkin-spiced lattes to wood-fired feasts and zesty new drink pairings, here’s what’s happening around town this September.

🎃 Sip Into the Season at La Panadería

La Panadería is welcoming cooler weather and the holiday spirit with the launch of its Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte, debuting Friday, September 19. (La Panadería, 2025)

This fall-inspired treat features an iced cinnamon latte base, topped with house-made cold foam crafted from real pumpkin puree and maple syrup, and finished with a dusting of pumpkin spice.

Pair your latte with La Panadería’s beloved brunch menu, featuring:

  • House-made chilaquiles
  • Huevos rancheros
  • Avocado toast
  • Breakfast tortas
  • And of course, freshly baked pan dulce

🍹 Twang Launches Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt

San Antonio’s own Twang, known for bold, South Texas-inspired flavors, has introduced its latest innovation: Fiesta Lime Rimming Salt. (Twang, 2025)

Perfect for cocktails and mocktails, this zesty rimmer combines lime zest with a balanced salt mix, accented with red, white, and green crystals — a nod to Twang’s Mexican-American roots and the colorful spirit of celebrations.

  • Price: $5 each
  • Where to buy: Online (nationwide delivery) and select Spec’s locations

Because every drink deserves a little fiesta.

🔥 Live Fire Returns to Hotel Contessa

Hotel Contessa is bringing back its popular seasonal tradition, Live Fire, starting Saturday, September 20 at Ambler, the hotel’s River Walk patio restaurant. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

This immersive culinary series celebrates Texas cuisine with dishes prepared over an open flame, paired with live music from local musicians.

Kickoff Event: September 20

  • 6 p.m. – Cocktail hour (drinks available for purchase)
  • 7–8 p.m. – Free country line dancing lessons (RSVP on Eventbrite)
  • 6–9 p.m. – Dinner reservations via OpenTable or 210-298-8040

Weekly Details

  • Every Saturday, 5–9 p.m. through mid-November (weather permitting)
  • Price: $79–$129 per person, depending on entrée
  • Format: Four-course, family-style meal featuring rotating seasonal menus

About the Chef

Executive Chef Michael Collins brings more than 30 years of culinary experience — and a decade spent in Texas — to this series. Through Live Fire, he showcases regional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and partnerships with local producers.

📍 Ambler River Patio
306 W. Market St., San Antonio, TX 78205

✨ Whether you’re craving pumpkin spice, a festive cocktail upgrade, or a true Texas feast by the fire, San Antonio has something flavorful waiting for you this fall.

La Panadería’s Pumpkin Cold Foam Latte. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Sweet News: Crepeccino Expands with a New Location in Cibolo, TX

San Antonio crêperie expands to Cibolo with grand opening celebration. Photo: Crepeccino.

Crepeccino Expands: Grand Opening in Cibolo, Texas 🎉

Crepeccino, the beloved San Antonio café and crêperie known for its handcrafted sweet and savory crêpes, specialty coffee, and artisan drinks, is opening its second location in Cibolo, Texas! (Crepeccino, 2025)

📍 Address: 857 Cibolo Valley Drive, Suite 208
📅 Opening Day: Saturday, September 13, 2025

The community is invited to a two-day grand opening celebration filled with giveaways, exclusive offers, and family-friendly fun.

Grand Opening Weekend Schedule

Saturday, September 13

  • 🎀 Ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the official opening at 10 a.m.
  • 🍓 First 50 guests in line receive a free sweet crêpe
  • ☕ 20% off menu items until 3 p.m.
  • 🎟️ Raffle all day for guests who RSVP via Eventbrite and make a purchase in-store

Sunday, September 14

  • ⏰ Open from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • 🎟️ Raffle continues all day

Special Giveaway 🎁

Guests who RSVP on Eventbrite and make a purchase during the grand opening weekend will be entered to win one of three prizes:

  • 🥇 $500 Crepeccino Gift Card
  • 🥈 $300 Crepeccino Gift Card
  • 🥉 $100 Crepeccino Gift Card

A Word from the Owner

“San Antonio has embraced Crepeccino in such a special way, and we’re thrilled to bring that same experience to Cibolo. Our new location is about creating a space where neighbors, families, and friends can gather over fresh crêpes & great coffee.”
— Bara Ekhlayel, Owner of Crepeccino

About Crepeccino

Founded in 2018 in Leon Valley, Crepeccino has quickly become a local favorite for brunch classics—coffee, crêpes, and waffles—while also offering savory dinner entrées, sandwiches, and indulgent gelato milkshakes. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, Creppecino is the perfect spot to gather and enjoy handcrafted flavors any time of day.

👉 RSVP now on Eventbrite and join the celebration in Cibolo!

September Vibes at Plaza San Antonio: Yoga, Jazz, Cocktails & More

Plaza San Antonio announces new First Friday Market, Happy Hour Deals, and more. Anaqua Garden Bar photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

September Happenings at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is excited to present a vibrant lineup of September events—ranging from happy hour specials and live music to yoga classes and unique wellness experiences. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, relaxing spa time, or unforgettable entertainment, there’s something for everyone this month. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2025)

🌿 Anaqua Garden Bar

First Friday’s Under the Trees

📅 Friday, September 5 | 5–8 p.m.
Celebrate the start of each month with $10 cocktails, live acoustic sets by Leon Sanchez, and local vendor pop-ups on the garden lawn. Perfect for sipping, strolling, and soaking in the First Friday energy.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Beats and Bubbles

📅 Every Saturday in September | 5–9 p.m.
Turn up the sparkle with a bubble party featuring a live vinyl DJ. Enjoy a $39 Disco Ball Cocktail to share, or sip champagne for just $9 a glass.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

5•5•5 Sundays

📅 Every Sunday | All Day
$5 pool passes, $5 cocktails, $5 bites—plus $55 cabanas and shareable cocktails. A DJ keeps the vibes going in the lush downtown garden.
👉 Use code SUNDAY555 on Resort Pass for pool passes.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

Tropic Like It’s Hot

📅 Friday, September 26 | 4–7 p.m.
Tropical cocktails, island-inspired bites, lei giveaways, and live music under the torches. A perfect tiki-inspired evening.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

🧘 The Spa at Plaza San Antonio

Soul Flow Saturdays

📅 Every Saturday in September | 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Outdoor yoga led by Kristel Perry on the Oasis Lawn. Includes all-day pool, Zen Lounge, and fitness center access, plus 25% off same-day spa services.
💲 $17.85 via Eventbrite

Poses at The Plaza

📅 Sunday, September 28 | 10 a.m.
A 60-minute yoga flow with EnergyXFitness, followed by the Anaqua Tea Ceremony at 11 a.m. Includes pool and spa access, plus a reservation at Corinne San Antonio.
💲 $15 via Eventbrite

Moonlit Wellness: Floating Sound Bath Under the First Quarter Moon

📅 Friday, September 19 | 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Float in the spa pool while immersed in a 60-minute sound bath with crystal bowls and gongs by Caitlyn Garrison. Includes spa amenities, valet, and 25% off spa services.
👉 Reserve via Eventbrite

🍴 Corinne San Antonio

Corinne’s Sunset Sessions

📅 Friday, September 12 & 19 | 4–7 p.m.
Unwind with chef-driven bites, craft cocktails, and smooth live Latin jazz during golden hour.
👉 Reserve Sept. 12 | Reserve Sept. 19

4-5-6-7 Happy Hour

📅 Monday–Thursday | 4–8 p.m.
Enjoy $7 food and drinks, including Lobster Queso, Loaded Cauliflower Nachos, local Texas beers, and La Villita Margaritas.
👉 Reserve on OpenTable

📍 Venue Details

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
555 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
🚗 Valet Parking: $15 for up to 3 hours

From Puerto Vallarta to San Antonio: Tacos On The Street Makes Its U.S. Debut

Artist interior rendering of Tacos On The Street, coming soon to San Antonio. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Tacos On The Street Brings Puerto Vallarta Flavor to San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Beloved Mexican eatery Tacos On The Street, known for its authentic street-style carne asada, is making its U.S. debut this August with a new flagship location on the northeast side of San Antonio. The restaurant will open at 22026 US Highway 281 N, Suite #101, with an official opening date to be announced soon. (Tacos On The Street, 2025)

Founded as a humble taco stand in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 1993, Tacos On The Street has grown into a cherished culinary destination with one guiding principle: do one thing, and do it exceptionally well—carne asada. Now, it’s bringing its bold flavors and rich cultural heritage north to the Alamo City, where it will also establish its U.S. headquarters.

“San Antonio felt like the natural place to begin our growth in the U.S.,” said Director of Marketing Natalia Bustamante. “It’s a city that lives and breathes flavor, family, and culture—and that’s exactly what defines us. This opening isn’t just a launch; it’s the beginning of a much bigger journey—with this city at the heart of it all.”

A Menu Rooted in Tradition

Every dish at Tacos On The Street—from mouth-watering tacos and cheesy quesadillas to crispy tostadas—is made using time-tested recipes passed down since day one. Guests can also enjoy refreshing margaritas, the signature Jamaica Mezcalita, and curated desserts featuring Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, making its San Antonio debut.

A Space That Tells a Story

The restaurant’s interior is a tribute to both its Mexican origins and its new San Antonio home. Designed by acclaimed creative Joel Mozersky (of Pullman Market and Mon Chou Chou), the space includes handcrafted ceramic elements from Guadalajara’s Cerámica Suro, a studio known for its collaborations with restaurants like Noma, Central, and Eleven Madison Park.

A custom mural by Don Mos, a muralist from Irapuato, fuses contemporary iconography with traditional Mexican symbolism. Under the creative direction of Guillermo Flores Pacheco of Orbeh Studio, the mural celebrates the shared spirit of Puerto Vallarta and San Antonio.

Thoughtful Partnerships, Soulful Service

Tacos On The Street has teamed up with like-minded brands including Jarritos, Twang, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to enhance the dining experience. The restaurant’s fast-casual model delivers warmth and hospitality rooted in Mexican tradition, paired with the efficiency and ease of Texan-American service.

Tacos On The Street will be open daily, with full hours and an exact opening date to be announced soon. This San Antonio flagship is just the beginning of a broader expansion—one that honors place, partnership, and purpose. Additional U.S. locations are in the works, with more details to follow.

Stay tuned—and come hungry.

Red, White & Delicious: Fourth of July Eats, Drinks & Events to Savor

Twang debuts limited-edition cocktail rimming salt for Fourth of July celebrations. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Style at Hotel Contessa

This Fourth of July, make your way to Hotel Contessa in downtown San Antonio for a weekend full of bold flavors, festive fun, and patriotic flair. (Hotel Contessa, 2025)

🍖 Fourth of July Dining Specials at Ambler

Available Thursday, July 3 – Saturday, July 5

Ambler, Hotel Contessa’s signature restaurant, is firing up the grill with bold Texas barbecue and elevated comfort food all weekend long. Enjoy these mouthwatering specials:

  • Mesquite Smoked Pork Ribs with mac-n-cheese & slaw – $34
  • 28oz Cowboy Ribeye with baked potato & grilled asparagus – $99
  • 24oz Bone-In NY Strip with mac-n-cheese & grilled asparagus – $99

👉 Reservations recommended. Book online or call Ambler at (210) 298-8040. Limited seating available!

🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: Independence Day

Saturday, July 5 at 10:30 p.m. | Hotel Contessa River Walk Patio

The celebration continues Saturday night with a special screening of the iconic film Independence Day. Grab your seat (first come, first served!) on the River Walk patio and enjoy:

  • Themed cocktails
  • Popcorn & candy
  • A nostalgic s’mores bar

Don’t miss this perfect summer night under the stars!

📍 Hotel Contessa – 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

✨ Summer Sips & Patriotic Products

🍸 Twang’s Life, Liberty, and Lime Rimming Salt

Raise a glass to summer with Twang’s newest limited-edition release, Life, Liberty, and Lime—a zesty cocktail rimming salt featuring all-natural red, white, and blue crystals. (Twang, 2025)

  • Bold lime flavor + festive colors
  • Perfect for margaritas, beers, and more
  • 4oz tub for just $5.00
  • Available at grocery stores nationwide or online

Founded in San Antonio in 1986, Twang is a Latino-owned brand known for premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasonings that elevate every bite and sip.

🍵 Full Leaf Tea Company: Functional Hydration for the Fourth

Looking for a refreshing, wellness-forward way to celebrate? Full Leaf Tea Company has you covered with patriotic drinkware and antioxidant-rich teas. (Full Leaf Tea Company, 2025)

Full Leaf, based in Southern Oregon, is beloved for its USDA organic teas, wellness blends, and on-the-go accessories. Explore their tea-based summer recipes and curated gift sets to keep the good vibes flowing all season long.

Photo: Full Leaf Tea Company, used with permission.

Whether you’re indulging in barbecue and blockbusters or sipping antioxidant-packed tea by the pool, there are plenty of ways to make this Independence Day your most flavorful and festive yet! 🎆

Savor the Season: La Panadería’s Bold Summer Menu + Stone Oak Expansion

La Panadería kicks off summer with new cold foam drinks and ‘Summer of Concha’ campaign. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Summer Sips and Sweet Treats: La Panadería Launches New Seasonal Menu and Expands to Stone Oak

San Antonio, TX – La Panadería, the beloved San Antonio bakery renowned for its artisanal pan dulce and French-inspired Mexican bread, is thrilled to unveil its new lineup of Summer Drinks, along with the return of its fan-favorite seasonal conchas as part of the annual Summer of Concha initiative.

These limited-time offerings are available now through August 31, 2025, at all La Panadería locations.

☀️ Sip into Summer

La Panadería’s refreshed beverage program brings a cool and creative twist to summer sipping, featuring iced drinks made with house-crafted syrups and indulgent cold foam toppings.

This summer’s drink lineup includes:

  • Lavender Latte
    A floral iced latte sweetened with La Panadería’s signature lavender syrup, topped with a smooth lavender-infused cold foam.
  • Tres Leches Matcha
    A layered iced matcha latte with strawberry purée, topped with strawberry tres leches cold foam—blending the creamy essence of tres leches cake with earthy premium matcha.
  • Strawberry Mimosa
    A bright, bubbly take on the brunch classic—featuring champagne, strawberry purée, and a splash of orange juice. This is La Panadería’s first-ever mimosa flavor beyond the traditional orange.

🍞 Summer of Concha Returns

Back by popular demand, La Panadería’s Summer of Concha celebrates bold flavors and nostalgic indulgence with a lineup of creatively reimagined conchas—Mexico’s iconic sweet bread.

Limited-edition concha flavors include:

  • Dubai Chocolate Concha
    Inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar, this dual-toned concha features a green and chocolate crust, filled with luscious pistachio ganache and Nutella.
  • Ferrero Rocher Concha
    A decadent red-and-chocolate shell filled with rich chocolate ganache and hazelnut praline cream—a nod to the beloved Ferrero Rocher.
  • Nutella Concha
    An orange-shelled treat filled with creamy Nutella, first introduced as a March Madness special.
Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

🍽️ New Location Coming to Stone Oak

La Panadería is also excited to announce the opening of its largest location yet, debuting in Stone Oak in late Fall 2025. The new 6,600-square-foot restaurant at 1011 N. Loop 1604 E will feature:

  • The full La Panadería menu
  • A cocktail bar
  • A covered outdoor patio
  • 100 dedicated parking spaces

“We’ve always believed in growing thoughtfully and with our guests in mind. Stone Oak is a vibrant and growing area, and we’re excited to bring La Panadería to a new part of the city.”
— José Cáceres, Co-owner

About La Panadería

Founded in 2013 by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería began as a humble stand at the Quarry Farmers Market and quickly grew into a local institution. Since opening its first brick-and-mortar in 2014, the bakery has become a staple of San Antonio’s culinary landscape—celebrated for its commitment to quality ingredients, artisanal techniques, and heartfelt Mexican-European fusion.

From handcrafted pan dulce to savory tortas and brunch favorites, La Panadería continues to serve a one-of-a-kind dining experience that captures the culture, flavor, and warmth of San Antonio.

Visit La Panadería today to enjoy the Summer of Concha and cool off with their vibrant new drink selections—before the season ends!

📅 Available through August 31, 2025
📍 Multiple locations across San Antonio

From Mimosas to Music: Unique Ways to Honor Mom This Mother’s Day

La Panadería is offering Ferrero Rocher conchas and 100 free mimosas. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in San Antonio and Beyond: Unique Experiences and Heartfelt Gifts

With Mother’s Day approaching on Sunday, May 11, it’s the perfect time to plan something memorable for the amazing moms in your life. Whether you’re in San Antonio or looking for a feel-good experience elsewhere, here are some standout offerings—from delicious brunches and spa packages to creative cocktails and musical events that give back.

🌸 San Antonio Mother’s Day Specials

La Panadería

Ferrero Rocher Conchas & 100 Free Mimosas
Celebrate Mom with complimentary mimosas for the first 100 mothers dining in at any of La Panadería’s four locations on May 11. Starting Saturday, May 10, enjoy two new drinks: an Iced Lavender Latte with cold foam and a Strawberry Mimosa. Don’t miss their Ferrero Rocher Concha—a red and brown concha shell filled with Nutella and Hazelnut Praline Cream, available all May.

The Spa Plaza San Antonio

“What To Get Mom” Spa Package
Gift Mom relaxation with a spa package that includes two luxurious services valued at $350, a complimentary glass of prosecco, and a fresh bouquet.
📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online to reserve.

Corinne San Antonio

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet
Treat your mom to an elegant brunch on May 11 from 10a.m. to 3p.m. in Corinne’s private dining space or pavilion.

  • Adults: $65
  • Children (10 & under): $17
    🍽️ Reservations recommended via OpenTable.

Bakery Lorraine

Mother’s Day Pastry Packages
Choose from two delicious options:

  • Le Brunch de Maman ($145): Includes quiche Lorraine, salad, potatoes, and a dozen macarons (serves 6). Add a bottle of bubbly for $30.
  • Maman Chérie Box ($28): Features chai shortbread cookies, heart-shaped pop-tarts, and seasonal pastries.

Enjoy dine-in specials like the Croque Madame and chocolate chip pancakes all weekend.
📦 Pre-orders available online for pickup on May 10 or 11.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood

Truffles & Bubbles for Mom
Join Dean’s for brunch on May 11, served from 7a.m. to 3p.m.. From 10a.m. to 3p.m., visit the Petalé Haus Floral Design pop-up for ready-made bouquets or build-your-own blooms.
🍫 Add a box of signature truffles and a half-bottle of sparkling wine for $65.
Reserve on OpenTable.

Tenfold Rooftop

Customized Cocktails with Mom
From 1p.m. to 4p.m. on May 11, enjoy skyline views while La Pulga Tequila hosts a drink-printing experience. Personalize the signature Paper Heart cocktail with a photo or message printed on top.
🍸 Reservations highly encouraged via OpenTable.

Hotel Contessa

Rooftop Painting with Jean Marston
Unwind on May 11 from 4p.m. to 5p.m. with a guided painting session by local artist Jean Marston at the Rooftop Pool. Enjoy light bites, wine, and skyline views. Spa services are also available post-session.
🎨 RSVP required by calling 210-298-8038.
💰 $85 per person.

🎶 A Mother’s Day That Gives Back: Rock And Roll Playhouse Concerts

Looking for a feel-good gift that supports a great cause? The Rock and Roll Playhouse is hosting family-friendly concerts nationwide on May 11, with $1 from each ticket donated to Can’d Aid, a nonprofit supporting kids in the arts. Capitol Theatre Center will match donations to Can’d Aid for tickets purchased for Mother’s Day weekend for all Rock And Roll Playhouse locations across the country. 

Featured Concerts:

Treat Mom to Rock and Roll Playhouse this May 11. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

About Can’d Aid

Can’d Aid is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating healthier, more creative communities. Since 2013, they’ve donated over:

  • 12,800 bikes
  • 8,900 skateboards
  • 4,100+ musical instruments

They partner with artists like Tyler Childers, Steep Canyon Rangers, and more to host workshops and live performances for underserved youth.

About The Rock and Roll Playhouse

Founded in 2014 at Brooklyn Bowl, The Rock and Roll Playhouse introduces kids to classic rock in family-friendly concerts across the U.S. With over 42 venues in 30 cities, they bring the music of iconic bands to life—creating unforgettable, creative moments for the next generation.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Mother’s Day one filled with love, laughter, and a touch of magic. 💐