Category: Dining Out

Gift guide: make Mother’s Day extra special this year

Treat mom to some special treats from Bakery Lorraine. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Mother’s Day is this Sunday May 12 and if you’re still looking for ideas to celebrate mom on her special day, several businesses in the San Antonio area have special offerings available. Whether mom likes a spa day, brunch, sweets, or a day at the theater, here’s a selection of what’s hot this year. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, Bakery Lorraine, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Children’s Ballet of San Antonio, 2024)

** Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk **

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk has special offerings where moms can enjoy a much-needed spa getaway and delicious brunch.

The Mother’s Day Brunch will be from 11a.m. – 3p.m. on Sunday, May 12 at Landrace. Menu highlights will include classic brunch delights like French toast topped with seasonal compote, buttermilk biscuits with maple gravy, and fresh breakfast pastries, alongside a champagne wall and mimosa cart to clink cheers. 

The Thompson Spa will be offering special Mother’s Day treatments throughout the month of May, so that children can treat their mothers to the ultimate day of relaxation. Treatments for mom include a “Spring Goddess Glow Package” with a green tea firming body treatment and 50-minute massage, a “Royal Rose Package” with a deeply nourishing facial and body treatment, and a “Love Yourself Peppermint Mani-Pedi.” The full spa menu is available here. 

** Bakery Lorraine **

Bakery Lorraine has special treats that will be sure to make any mother feel appreciated on this special day. 

For lovers of flowers and sweet treats, Bakery Lorraine is excited to offer a petite bouquet with a box of 6 Parisian macarons, perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day. The Macarons — whose flavors include Triple Vanilla, Pistachio, and Raspberry — will be elegantly stored in a unique and limited time floral box. This special offer can be purchased for $50 online through the Bakery Lorraine website or in store (all stores except the Doseum location in San Antonio). 

The last day to order one of these bouquets and macarons will be on Thursday, May 9. Each order is available for pickup at the Bakery Lorraine location of choice between 10a.m. and 6p.m. on Saturday, May 11, or Sunday, May 12, 2024.

In addition to pre-orders, Bakery Lorraine is hosting a small make your own Mother’s Day Card at all locations (except Doseum in San Antonio) from 2p.m. to close on Thursday, May 9. This is a free event that will be available while supplies last. Additionally, guests in San Antonio can visit Bakery Lorraine at Pearl on Saturday, May 11 for a flower shop pop-up to purchase locally made bouquets.

** Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa **

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, the recently opened Autograph Collection hotel in downtown, is pleased to announce its Mother’s Day (May 12) offerings to pamper moms this season. Bridging Downtown and Southtown neighborhoods, the Plaza San Antonio’s lush garden oasis and reimagined environment is a sanctuary of connectivity with extraordinary cuisine, culture, creativity, and community. Mom can enjoy an onsite garden oasis bar, pool, spa, and a lively restaurant with honest food and drinks ranging from hearty to healthy. Below is a breakdown of the specials available for Mother’s Day. 

Nestled within the historic grounds of San Antonio’s only Autograph Collection Hotel, The Spa Plaza San Antonio offers a restorative approach to health and wellness. To help pamper moms, local or visiting, the hotel will offer several limited-time treatment packages at its luxurious spa. All the treatments can be booked through the Spa’s website and are included below:  

  • Side-by-Side Mani Pedi – $200
  • Side-by-Side Massage – $350
  • Treat Yourself – $150

In addition to the unique offerings at the hotel’s Spa, guests can also celebrate mom and elevate the day with a brunch feast at Corinne San Antonio. With a modern, comfortable design and refreshing menu that offers a new take on San Antonio dining, Corinne provides a perfect place to gather for Mother’s Day. The Brunch menu includes Chorizo Devilled Eggs, Mezcal Shrimp Cocktail, Sweet Corn Cake Eggs Benedict, Lump Crab Frittata, and more. 

To cap off the delightful brunch, guests can then head over to Anaqua Garden Bar for a celebratory drink with mom. Anaqua Garden Bar is a hidden gem located in the heart of Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa’s garden oasis. Inspired and named after the property’s champion Anaqua tree, this garden bar features a menu highlighting the fusion of Japanese flavors with Latin tradition, botanical cocktails, lush seating and a curated soundtrack to create a chill Zen oasis to celebrate mom. 

Limited Time Specialty Spa Treatments:
Valid Wednesday, May 1, 2024 through Friday, May 31, 2024* during Spa operating hours
*Excluding Memorial Day weekend (May 25-27)

Corinne San Antonio Sunday Brunch Hours:
7a.m. – 2p.m.

Anaqua Garden Bar Sunday Hours:
11a.m. – 10p.m.

The Spa Plaza San Antonio & Corinne San Antonio
555 S Alamo St
San Antonio, TX 78205

Valet parking is available at the hotel at $15 for three hours.

** Children’s Ballet of San Antonio **

The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA) invites you to a magical ball you don’t want to miss. The company will bring to life the classic Cinderella, the timeless love story, complete with a wicked stepmother, clumsy stepsisters, a fairy-godmother, and of course a handsome prince. Experience an enchanting performance for the whole family with opulent costumes, dreamlike digital and physical scenery and award-winning performers and choreographers, all set to the soaring score by Sergei Prokofiev. Taking place at the stunning Majestic Theatre on May 10 and 11, Cinderella is a dream come true that is sure to awaken child-like wonder in all ages.

A talented cast of roughly 200 young CBSA artists, ages 3-19, present this romantic fairy tale as only the Children’s Ballet can. The audience will be swept away by original Disney ballads such as “So This is Love” performed through stunning ballet artistry and incredible vocal talent transforming Cinderella into an avant-garde fairy tale classic. Classical ballet combined with an eclectic mix of awe-inspiring aerial acrobatics, hip-hop, and gymnastics create an exciting 90-minute production that will transfix even the youngest audience members.

Guests are encouraged to don their finest frocks, present their prettiest princess dresses, or come as a quinceañera queen to make it a truly magical affair to remember. Upon arrival, guests can take photos with the cast and even purchase tiaras, tutus, and fairy wands on-site! All audience members are sure to be wowed by the venue: downtown’s stunning Majestic Theatre. It’s the perfect place for a Cinderella story fit for a princess.

The Majestic Theatre
224 E. Houston Street
San Antonio, TX 78205

Friday May 10, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show
Saturday May 11, 1p.m. doors, 2p.m. show
Saturday May 11, 6p.m. doors, 7p.m. show
Tickets are available on the Children’s Ballet of San Antonio website.

 

 

 

Taco Cabana unveils new menu offerings and partnership with Jarritos

New menu offerings are available starting May 1 while supplies last. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Tex-Mex innovator Taco Cabana (TC) is thrilled to announce the debut of its enticing new limited-time menu offerings, just in time for Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Items are available starting on Wednesday, May 1 in all Texas locations while supplies last. (Taco Cabana, 2024)

Included in the new lineup are breakfast, lunch and dinner Tortas, mouthwatering Loaded Fries, all new Happy Hour offerings, and a partnership with Jarritos for an irresistible new margarita.

Taco Cabana elevates the Tex-Mex experience to new heights with bold flavors and vibrant dining. TC is bringing back the Breakfast Tortas, and they are better than ever. The tortas for breakfast include Bacon & Egg, Chorizo & Egg or Country Sausage & Egg, all piled high on a bed of refried beans, then topped with pico de gallo and shredded cheese. The new lunch and dinner torta options are stacked with refried beans, your pick of Carne Asada, Steak Fajita, or Chicken Fajita, plus a mix of fresh shredded lettuce and pico de gallo. The whole lineup of Tortas are available all day and served with a side of house made Salsa Ranch.

The new Loaded Fries are an irresistible fusion of flavors and include a Carne Asada option topped with queso, sour cream, guacamole and pico de gallo and a Chili Cheese option served with queso and chili con carne. Plain fries will also be available as a great add-on to any meal.

The new Happy Hour offerings will be available from 3p.m. to 6p.m. every Sunday through Thursday, and will feature $2 Margaritas and domestic beers, half-priced Bean & Cheese Nachos, 3-pack Flautas and small Cheese Quesadillas. These delicious items are sure to add a festive flair to your Cinco de Mayo festivities.

The Jarritos partnership introduces a new Mandarin Margarita that brings the perfect refreshing beverage to Taco Cabana, just in time for warmer weather. Jarritos Mandarin Sodas will also be available at Taco Cabana Texas locations for a non-alcoholic Jarritos experience.

“This new exciting chapter allows us to showcase our culinary innovations and unwavering commitment to excellence. We’re blending tradition with contemporary flair. We’re devoted to captivating fresh audiences through this approach, offering additional incentives to come together and celebrate with our all new Happy Hour lineup and our thrilling collaboration with Jarritos!” – Ulyses Camacho, President and COO of Taco Cabana

The excitement doesn’t stop there at Taco Cabana. Locations in San Antonio will be testing new Jr. Bowls and Burritos beginning May 1, bringing the same great flavors and quality ingredients in a convenient value-sized package. Whether it’s a quick bite on the go or a satisfying meal to fuel the day, Taco Cabana’s got something for everyone at an unbeatable price. Download the MYTC! App and join MYTC! Loyalty Rewards for special offers and exclusive TC news.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of January 1, 2024, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

Pullman Market opens at Pearl in San Antonio

The highly anticipated destination centered around Texas food and local agriculture features a specialty grocer, tortilleria, bakery, quick-service eatery, restaurants, and more. Photo: Robert Lerma, used with permission.

There is always something new and exciting going on at Pearl. From the farmers market to restaurants and special events, guests have a variety of of shopping and dining options. Some of my most memorable moments in San Antonio took place there. Today, I’m happy to share that today, Pullman Market is making its grand debut.

Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group’s Pullman Market, the largest culinary market in the Southwest, opens at Pearl on Tuesday, April 23. Visitors will be able to enjoy the market’s specialty grocer, featuring Texas-based produce and goods from over 150 suppliers throughout the state. Two of the market’s four restaurants, Fife & Farro and Mezquite, are also set to open on April 23. (Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, 2024)

“Pullman Market is the first project of its kind in San Antonio and the region. We’re most excited about providing a space for guests to get a taste of the ideals that make this city great: community, hospitality and high-quality food. There’s something for everyone at Pullman Market. You can grab a quick bite, stay awhile at one of our restaurants, discover fresh local ingredients or grab something premade to make mealtime easy – knowing it’s all been sourced with a commitment to quality and sustainability in an effort to offer the best we can for our community.” – Kevin Fink, Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group Partner

The 40,000-square-foot market is located in the former Samuels Glass Company headquarters at Pearl, which has continued to evolve as a culinary hub of San Antonio. Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery located just north of downtown San Antonio. Located in the heart of Pearl, Pullman Market was designed by award-winning Texas architecture firms Clayton Korte and Burton Baldridge and interior design firm Joel Mozersky Design.

Pullman Market celebrates everything food related and is about creating easier relationships between local producers and the community. The specialty market features over 150 Texas vendors supplying fresh produce, meat, cheese, wine, beer, and more. The market also features a retail section with a selection of locally sourced home and beauty goods, chef supplies, toys and more, as well as a high-quality grab-and-go meal case. Visitors will also be able to pick up provisions from the on-site tortilleria and sourdough bakery.

In addition to the specialty market, Pullman Market features five casual to-go concepts with items such as burgers, tacos, ceviche, sandwiches, coffee and ice cream, the latter of which includes flavors created by award-winning pastry chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph. Pullman Market also includes four restaurant concepts, two of which will open on April 23: Fife & Farro and Mezquite.

Fife & Farro is a family-friendly, no-reservations-required eatery specializing in wood-fired sourdough pizza and handmade heritage grain pasta. Fife & Farro is open for dinner only from 5p.m. to 10p.m. Monday and Tuesday and for lunch and dinner from 11a.m. to 10p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.

Mezquite focuses on the cuisine of Sonora, Mexico, with a dedicated mezcal bar named Mezcaleria. Mezquite and Mezcaleria are open for lunch and dinner from 11a.m. to 10p.m. Thursday-Tuesday and for dinner only from 5p.m. to 10p.m. on Wednesday.

The remaining Pullman Market full-service restaurants, Isidore and Nicosi, are scheduled to open later this spring. Isidore will feature an elevated dining experience where reservations will be required and the menu will change regularly, highlighting the best ingredients of the season. Nicosi, created by Bristol-Joseph, will be an intimate dessert bar with 20 seats and a no-phone policy. Stay tuned for an opening announcement in the coming weeks.

Pullman Market is located at 221 Newell Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215. The market’s operating hours are 8a.m. to 9p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 8a.m. to 10p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, which operated from 1883 to 1999. Located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River, it is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable – both built in 1894 – and numerous plazas. Today, Pearl is home to dozens of unique culinary concepts, one-of-a-kind retail, weekend markets, residential communities, innovative office tenants, the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America and the award-winning Hotel Emma. Pearl is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity. We invite all to gather and experience the best of what San Antonio has to offer.

Easter dining specials and cocktail recipes

Easter is coming up on Sunday, March 31, 2024. Photo: Google/Czech Universities

Easter is coming up already on Sunday, so if you are looking for ideas on dining out, consider Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. Planning on celebrating at home with family? How about some cocktail recipes? Here are some festive cocktail recipes from Gray Whale Gin, Cantera Negra Tequila and Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon, which, coincidentally, can also get you ready for National Brunch Month coming up in April.

At Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, nestled along a picturesque residential stretch of the iconic Riverwalk, Landrace’s expert chefs are preparing a delightful Easter menu with a Southern twist. On March 31 at 11a.m. guests and locals alike can indulge in a variety of savory and sweet Easter specials. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

Here’s a glimpse of what Landrace has to offer:

Specialty Stations:

  • Pasta Station – featuring red sauce, truffle alfredo, chicken, shrimp, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and tomatoes
  • Omelet Station – offerings honey ham, bacon, spinach, cheese, mushrooms, tomatoes, and jalapeños

Platters & Chaffers featuring the following choices:

  • Breakfast pastries
  • Assorted fresh fruits and artisanal cheeses
  • Crispy pork belly
  • Homemade chorizo sausage
  • Tri-colored potato hash
  • Thick-sliced brioche French toast
  • Brisket benny topped with BBQ béarnaise sauce
  • Velvety & creamy mashed potatoes with cheese
  • Freshly baked rolls
  • Prosciutto quiche with truffle and lemon
  • Chopped romaine & radicchio salad with apples and Parmesan

Specials

  • Honey-glazed ham
  • Fire-roasted lamb
  • crème brûlée cascaron
  • Hummingbird cake with cream cheese icing
  • Chocolate orange torte

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Cocktail recipes: (courtesy photos, used with permission)

Cantera Negra Blood Orange Mimosa

  • Ingredients:
    • 1oz Cantera Negra Reposado Tequila
    • 1oz Aperol
    • 2oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
    • Champagne or sparkling wine
  • Instructions:
    • Shake all ingredients (minus champagne) and strain into highball glass over ice.
    • Slowly add champagne to fill.
    • Garnish with a blood orange wheel. 

Blackberry Negroni

A springtime twist on the classic negroni featuring in-season blackberries along with Campari and Cocchi Dopo Teatro. If Cocchi Dopo Teatro isn’t available, another sweet vermouth will do.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5 parts Gray Whale Gin
    • 1 part Campari
    • 0.75 part Cocchi Dopo Teatro
    • 6 Fresh Blackberries
  • Instructions:
    • In a cocktail glass, muddle four blackberries. In a mixing glass, combine Gray Whale Gin, Campari and Cocchi Dopo Teatro. Add ice and stir until chilled. Strain the mixture from the mixing glass into the glass with the muddled blackberries. Garnish with the remaining two blackberries.

Whiskey Crusta

  • Ingredients:
    • 1.5oz Bib & Tucker 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon.5oz 1883 Maison Routin Apple Syrup.25oz Luxardo Maraschino.25 lemon
    • 2 dashes Fee Brothers Old Fashioned Bitters
  • Instructions:
    • Shake ingredients with ice & strain into glass with sugar crusted rim.
    • Garnish with long lemon peel.

Fiesta’s Taste of the Republic announces 2024 chef lineup

Tickets are now on sale for Fiesta’s culinary kickoff event on April 18, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Mark your calendars, folks! This year’s Fiesta San Antonio is scheduled for April 18-28 and it’s time to start making plans. What started out as a way to honor the heroes of the Alamo and Battle of San Jacinto with a Battle of Flowers parade has grown into a city wide celebration and ‘party with a purpose.’ The Taste of the Republic is the opening event and will take place at the Briscoe Western Art Museum.

 

Taste of the Republic, the official culinary opening event of Fiesta® San Antonio, is excited to announce its all star chef lineup for the event on Thursday, April 18, 2024. The following San Antonio chefs will create and serve their vision of Texas cuisine from the six culinary regions of the state defined by the event’s co- founder, Chef Brian West. Tickets for the event are available for purchase now. (Taste of the Republic, 2024)

This year’s participating chef lineup, curated by Chef Brian West, includes:

• Chef Jessie Kuykendall of Mipa
• Chef Ceasar Zepeda of Saucy Bird
• Chef Jose Ochoa of Palenque Grill La Cantera
• Chef Juan Carlos Bazan of Cuishe Cocina Mexicana & Toro Kitchen + Bar
• Chef Braunda Smith of Lucy Cooper’s Ice House
• Chef Benjamin De Los Santos of Benjie’s Munch
• Chef Ernie Bradley of The Cherrity Bar
• Chef Lisa Astorga- Watel and Chef Damien Watel of Bistro09
• Chef Joe Melig and Chef Esaul Ramos of 2M Smokehouse
• Chef Kristina Zhao of Dashi & Sichuan House
• Chef Andrew Gutierrez of SA Pops

“We are so excited to bring together an excellent group of San Antonio chefs once again to celebrate Texas’ unique culinary traditions. We can’t wait to celebrate the best of San Antonio and to kick off Fiesta with all of our guests.” – Chef Brian West.

Ticket holders will be able to sample dishes from all the aforementioned chefs. Each dish is paired with a specific wine to compliment it, and beer and cocktails will also be served. Tickets for the event are $125 per person and a portion of the ticket sales goes toward supporting the San Antonio Fiesta Commission.

Taste of the Republic will be held at the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s Jack Guenther Pavilion in downtown San Antonio (210 W. Market Street, SA 78205). The event starts at 5p.m. Taste of the Republic’s Main Sponsors include High West Distillery, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Proximo, Brugal 1888 rum, Perry Homes Foundation, HeartBrand Beef and Dos Equis.

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Taco Cabana launches Big Red Margarita, Fish Tacos and Chilaquiles Bowls

If you are a fan of Big Red, Taco Cabana is launching its Big Red Margarita. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Taco Cabana is excited to announce several new limited-time-only menu items hitting restaurants this month that fans will love. In February, Taco Cabana will introduce all new Fish Tacos, new Chilaquiles Bowls and a Margarita made with Big Red to all participating Texas locations. (Taco Cabana, 2024)

Launching in time for the Lenten season, Taco Cabana will roll out its New Fish Tacos, made with wild caught, beer-battered Icelandic cod topped with a creamy pepper-limón sauce, shredded lettuce, and pico de gallo. The fish tacos are available individually, as a taco plate and as a taco combo. The tacos will be available starting Wednesday, February 14 and will be on the menu through Easter.

Taco Cabana is also thrilled to introduce its all new Chilaquiles Bowls featuring crispy tortilla strips topped with scrambled eggs and the guest’s choice of ranchero or green sauces. The Chilaquiles Bowls are then topped off with sour cream and sprinkled with cotija cheese. Taco Cabana’s classic salsa verde recipe is also making its return to stores this month and will be available to-go and at the in-store salsa bars. The Chilaquiles Bowls will be available all day at Taco Cabana starting Wednesday, February 14 for a limited time only.

To round out February’s exciting new launches, Taco Cabana will introduce its newest Margarita featuring Big Red in time for National Margarita Day on February 22. Taco Cabana worked closely with the team at Keurig Dr Pepper to come up with an innovative way to mix Taco Cabana’s margaritas with Big Red in a way that blends and showcases the flavors that consumers love. Guests can purchase the Margarita featuring Big Red as a single serving, a margarita yard, or in gallon size. Guests can also get a limited time combo with two Barbacoa Tacos and the new margarita. All will be available starting Thursday, February 22 for a limited time only.

“We have a lot of great things happening at Taco Cabana this month. We’re so excited to bring even more awesome menu items to our customers! Our team has worked hard to create new and innovative items like the Margarita featuring Big Red, the Chilaquiles Bowls and of course the new Fish Tacos. We look forward to having our guests try them in our restaurants or wherever they choose to get them delivered.” – Ulyses Camacho, Taco Cabana President and COO

Taco Cabana’s menu items can be ordered in-restaurant, via online ordering for front counter and curbside pick-up, in the drive-thru or by mobile order when using the MY TC!® App. 

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of January 1, 2024, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Taco Cabana Chilaquiles Bowls. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Freight Fried Chicken opens at Pearl this Saturday

Freight Fried Chicken will be located in the food hall at the Bottling Department. Photo: A.J. Creative, used with permission.

Award-winning chef Nicola Blaque will open her latest concept, Freight Fried Chicken, at the Food Hall at Bottling Department at Pearl on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Chef Blaque, whose fried chicken recipe has caught the attention of Eater, San Antonio Express-News and others on numerous occasions, created Freight Fried Chicken as a homage to the rich culinary history and traditions shared amongst Black Americans. Freight Fried Chicken draws its inspiration from black women in post Civil War America that sold fried chicken to rail passengers traveling through Gordonsville, VA. The women became known as Waiter Carriers and their chicken recipes would attract travelers who would go out of their way just to try the famous chicken. The sale of fried chicken allowed formerly enslaved women to support their households and create racial progress in a time fraught with dissension. (Freight Fried Chicken, 2024)

Freight Fried Chicken will use a dry batter for its chicken, which is similar in style to what was served by the Waiter Carriers. The chicken will also be served with biscuits, just like it was served on those trains so many years ago. Guests can also expect to see fried chicken tenders, a fried chicken sandwich, biscuits, mac ‘n’ cheese, seasoned fries, a vegetarian sandwich option, and more on the menu. Freight Fried Chicken’s bone-in chicken is halal and all of its batter is gluten free.

Opening date: Saturday, January 13, 2024
Hours will be 10a.m. to 9p.m. Sunday – Thursday and 10a.m. to 10p.m. Friday and Saturday

The Food Hall at Bottling Department
312 Pearl Pkwy Building 6
San Antonio, TX 78215

Lattoia Massey, known professionally as Chef Nicola Blaque, is a restaurateur and chef based in San Antonio, Texas. Chef Blaque is the executive chef and owner of the Jerk Shack, a Jamaican-inspired restaurant in San Antonio. The restaurant offers fare like jerk chicken, braised oxtail and quickly became a staple after opening in 2018. She also opened Mi Roti, a Caribbean concept at the popular Pearl district in San Antonio, in the summer of 2020, which is now being redeveloped into her latest concept, Freight Fried Chicken.

In addition to running successful concepts that have been recognized by GQ, Eater and more, Chef Blaque is an Army Veteran, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio, a private chef for members in the NBA, a wife and a mom. Having been born and raised in Jamaica until she was five years old, Chef Blaque is passionate about introducing people to the flavors of the Caribbean. Though she’ll be the first to tell you that the dishes she’s serving up aren’t always traditional Jamaican dishes, she’s passionate about infusing those flavors into cuisine her patrons know and love.

Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery, located just north of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the San Antonio River. Pearl is home to architecturally significant buildings like the brewhouse and stable—both built in 1894—and numerous plazas. Today, Pearl is home to dozens of unique culinary concepts, one-of-a-kind retail, weekend markets, residential communities, innovative office tenants, the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America, and the award-winning Hotel Emma. Pearl is a vibrant district where the community gathers to play, work, and live; it is a place where things are made and celebrated with purpose and sincerity.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group announces Pullman Market at Pearl

Pullman Market is a new 40,000 square market opening at Pearl in the spring of 2024. It will feature Mezquite, a restaurant and mezcal bar focusing on the cuisine of Sonora, Mexico. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group announced this month that Pullman Market, the largest culinary market in the Southwest, is slated to open at Pearl in San Antonio, Texas, in Spring 2024. The sprawling 40,000-square-foot market will feature four full-service restaurants, quick casual concepts, a robust wine and beer selection, Texas-based produce and specialties, and a seasonal bakery and fresh pasta program. Pullman Market will open in spring 2024 and will be located at 221 Newell Ave. Stay tuned for more details concerning opening date. (Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, 2023)

“We are excited to create a new, unique culinary experience that represents all of Texas for locals and travelers alike. Pullman Market is a place to celebrate all things food. You can grab a quick bite or stay a while at one of our restaurants. You can discover high-quality ingredients for dinner or grab something premade to make mealtime easy. Pullman is about creating easier relationships with local food and producers, a relationship that is often reserved for high-end restaurants or weekend farmers markets, and we are excited to share it with the community.” – Kevin Fink

Pullman Market will be located in Pearl, which has continued to evolve as a culinary hub of San Antonio. Pearl is a dynamic neighborhood built around the historic Pearl Brewery located just north of downtown San Antonio. Located in the heart of Pearl, Pullman Market was designed by award-winning Texas architecture firms, Clayton Korte and Burton Baldridge. 

Pullman Market is set to unveil four full-service restaurants, including Fife & Farro, a family-friendly, no-reservations-required eatery specializing in homemade pizza and pasta; Mezquite, a restaurant and mezcal bar focusing on the cuisine of Sonora, Mexico; Isidore, an elevated dining experience where reservations will be required and the menu will change regularly; and Nicosi, created by award-winning Pastry Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph, will be an intimate dessert bar with 18 seats and a no-phone policy. In addition to the four restaurants, Pullman Market will offer a grocery featuring Texas-based produce and seasonal specialties along with casual to-go concepts with items such as burgers, ice cream, tacos, sandwiches, ceviche, coffee and more. 

“Pullman Market is a wonderful complement to the vibrant culinary, retail, and cultural landscape that defines Pearl today. The success of our Pearl Farmers Market the past 14 years shows that our neighborhood supports local farmers, chefs, and food enthusiasts. With Pullman Market, we are excited to provide a space where residents and guests can connect to these experiences daily, in addition to our weekend Farmers Market.” – Mesha Milsap, Pearl CEO

Led by partners Kevin Fink, Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Alicynn Fink, Berty Richter, and Rand Egbert, Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group is a Texas-based restaurant group that manages seven renowned restaurant concepts including Emmer & Rye, Hestia, Kalimotxo, Canje and Ezov in Austin as well as Ladino, located at Pearl in San Antonio. The team will also be partnering with Tom Schnuck, the son of the co-founder and co-manager of a restaurant group who also assisted and invested in young chefs to create many successful restaurants that collectively hold five Michelin stars.

Taco Cabana embraces cooler weather with all new menu items

Taco Cabana’s all new menu includes Pollo Asado Street Tacos, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and Pozole. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Taco Cabana welcomes fall and winter with all-new menu items, food pairing specials, and returning family favorites. Starting Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at all Texas Taco Cabana locations, guests can embrace cooler weather with the additions of Pozole, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and tasty Pollo Asado Street Tacos, along with the return of TC’s signature Fajita Meals in El Paso. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

“After a year of showcasing many successful culinary innovations, we’re closing out 2023 strong with a broad array of new product introductions and returning TC favorites. Culinary excellence and innovation remain a vital part of our TC Brand DNA, and with the arrival of cooler temperatures and the holidays, we are excited to launch so many new and varied items.” – Ulyses Camacho, President and Chief Operating Officer, Taco Cabana

The all-new Pollo Asado Street Tacos (three-pack) are made with juicy delicious grilled chicken marinated in lime and orange juices, Mexican seasonings, topped with cilantro and onion, and served on corn tortillas. Each three-pack is available for $5.99. Guests will also be able to add new Pollo Asado to any of their TC favorites like quesadillas, nachos, Cabana Bowls®, burritos or flour tortilla tacos.

Embrace any Texas weather – hot or cold – with TC’s all-new Pozole, a hearty rich soup full of tender diced pork and hominy, topped with a blend of cilantro and onions and served with two lime wedges. Or try the returning fan-favorite Chicken Tortilla Soup, featuring a savory broth made with shredded chicken and topped with crispy corn tortilla strips, a blend of jack and cheddar cheeses, and served with lime wedges and a side of rice. Both soups are available in 8 oz. and 12 oz. servings and are the perfect seasonal snack. 

The only thing better than a warm soup is a warm soup paired with other TC favorites. TC guests can enjoy a variety of Soup Pairings starting at $7.29, featuring a small Pozole or Chicken Tortilla soup and choice of a ground beef taco, a three-pack of chicken flautas, or a small Chips and Queso. 

The TC Under $5 Value Menu will also see changes this season with the addition of two Taco Deals, including two black bean tacos and two chicken ranchero and cheese tacos. Breakfast for Under $4 is perfect for TC lovers looking for a warm breakfast with pairs of country sausage and egg tacos; egg ranchero and cheese tacos; potato, egg and ranchero tacos; or egg and cheese tacos. Bean and cheese nachos, three-pack chicken flautas, and ground beef and shredded chicken Double Crunch Pizzas will also be available on the Under $5 Menu.

El Paso guests can also indulge with TC Fajita Meals. Each filling and flavorful order comes complete with a half or full order of chicken, steak or mix fajita, two 8 oz. servings of refried beans, two 8 oz. servings of rice and 12 tortillas, with prices starting at $17.99. TC Fajita Meals are perfect meal options for families, friends, groups and more.

Taco Cabana’s menu options can be ordered in-restaurant, via online ordering for front counter and curbside pick-up, in the drive-thru or by mobile order when using the MY TC!® App or online.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of November 1, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Carriqui celebrates Día de los Muertos with reception

Reception will include Soledad tequila tastings, special curated menu, live music, and more. Photo: Carriqui, used with permission.

Carriqui continues the annual tradition of honoring loved ones who have passed on Día de los Muertos with a reception on Wednesday, November 1 from 6:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. in the Rockhouse. The one-night-only event includes Soledad tequila tastings, a signature cocktail, wine, live music, and unique bites. Carriqui’s team will also be collaborating on an ofrenda, which will be available for guests to view and contribute their own offerings. (Carriqui, 2023)

The featured unique bites include totopos with smoky chicken tinga, Texas redfish ceviche with charred salsa verde, barbacoa quesadillas, smoked crispy quail with salsa macha, and more. The evening will be complemented by a performance from Latin guitarist Adam Zuniga.

Tickets are available for purchase for $65 per person through OpenTable. Ticket price includes a raffle entry for a limited edition bottle of Soledad Día de los Muertos Janitzio.

Carriqui
239 E Grayson St.
San Antonio, TX 78215

Photo: Carriqui