Best Quality Daughter to host fundraiser for reproductive rights

Best Quality Daughter is partnering with New Orleans’ Turkey and the Wolf to host Good Trouble in Little China on September 11, 2022. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Best Quality Daughter is excited to announce that they will be hosting a house party, Good Trouble in Little China, to raise funds for reproductive rights in Texas and Louisiana. Guest Chef Mason Hereford from Turkey and the Wolf in New Orleans joins Chef Jennifer Hwa Dobertin for a special menu at Best Quality Daughter for one night only on Sunday, September 11, 2022 from 7p.m. to 11p.m. The party and fundraising event will benefit Planned Parenthood South Texas and Lift Louisiana with proceeds being split 50/50. This is not a seated dinner, so unfortunately dietary restrictions and food allergies are unable to be accommodated. (Best Quality Daughter, 2022)

Three dishes are being curated by both Chef Hereford, a recent Iron Chef alum, and Chef Dobertin, along with house made cocktails. Chef Hereford’s menu includes collard melts and deviled eggs with crispy chicken skin, while Chef Dobertin’s items include wagyu scallion pancake sandwiches and chorizo and egg dumplings. Drinks served will include house cocktails such as Aide and Abet and Purple Texas, along with a beer from Kunstler Brewing called The Morning After Pils.

Tickets are available for a donation of $150 through Eventbrite and include drinks and food. Guests must be 21+ to attend. 

Good Trouble in Little China is sponsored by Annie’s Petite Treats, Back Bar Project, El Dorado Rum, Farm to Table, Kunstler Brewing, Mezcal Amaras, Peeler Farms, Potluck Hospitality, Rambler Sparkling Water, Jamie Stolarski and Sarah Fox.

Best Quality Daughter
602 Avenue A
San Antonio, TX 78215

Best Quality Daughter is a restaurant by Chef Jennifer Dobbertin that opened at Pearl in November of 2020. Pioneering New Asian-American Cuisine, the restaurant experience is a reflection of Dobbertin’s travels and the comfort food of her youth as a second-generation Chinese American. A warm, fun, and gorgeous environment serves as a culinary beacon to locals and travelers alike.

Taco Rumble returns to San Antonio

Taco Rumble returns to San Antonio with Texas Throwdown this September. Photo: Texas Wood & Fine Alliance, used with permission.

An all-star crew of Texas’ best taqueros and chefs will clash Thursday, September 15, 7:30p.m. -10p.m. as Taco Rumble returns to the Alamo City. Tickets for the sell-out fundraiser are on sale now for $75. Proceeds benefit the South Texas culinary community through the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance’s (SAFWA) vibrant grant program. (San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, 2022)

This year, the sizzling competition will take over the picturesque grounds of the San Antonio Museum of Art. Conveniently located downtown, the museum graces the historic former Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk. 

Expanding on last year’s San Antonio vs. Austin battle, taco talent from across Texas will be turning up the heat in celebration of one of Texas’ most beloved dishes.

Firing up the comal will be:

  • Chef Thomas Bille — Belly of the Beast (Houston)
  • Chef Victoria Elizondo — Cochinita & Co. (Houston)
  • Chef Rick Lopez — La Condesa (Austin)
  • Chef Julio Paz — Fairmont Austin
  • Chefs Jacob Gonzales & Matt Garcia — The Fajita Lounge
  • Chef James Moore — Full Belly Café + Bar
  • Chef Nicola Blaque — The Jerk Shack
  • Chef Jesse “Kirk” Kuykendall — Milpa
  • Chef Tony Ibarra — La Mina (Dallas)
  • Chef James Ballentine — Ninja Pig (Austin, 2021 Texas Food & Wine Alliance grant recipient)
  • Chef Carlos Gonzalez — Panfila Cantina
  • Chef Ceasar Zepeda — Sangria on the Burg
  • Chef Paul Morales — Tacos Cucuy
  • Taquero Daniel Cobos — Vaquero Taquero (Austin)

“We are delighted to showcase some of San Antonio’s finest chefs and welcome stellar culinary talent from across the state. Guests can expect traditional and unconventional takes on the dish that Texas does best.” – Texas Food & Wine Alliance Communications Director Brandon Watson.

In addition to showcasing the best in taco craftsmanship, Taco Rumble will feature sweet treats, an impressive selection of wines, craft beer, and premium spirits tastings. The Alliance will announce more chefs in the upcoming weeks.

The Taco Rumble VIP experience includes access to the Casa Noble lounge at Tre Trattoria and early entry at 7p.m. Guests will enjoy specialty cocktails and exclusive bites from celebrity chef Jason Dady paired with Casa Noble’s award-winning tequila portfolio — including the new ultra-premium offering Marqués de Casa Noble. A skillful blend of 21 añejos and extra añejos, Marqués de Casa Noble is meticulously crafted from start to finish for an unrivaled taste.

The Taco Rumble VIP experience is $150, and limited passes are available. Tickets are expected to sell quickly and are available for online purchase now. 

Taco Rumble is a signature fundraiser for the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, the culinary nonprofit dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas food and beverage community. Proceeds from the signature tasting event will help SAFWA give back to the local culinary community through a vibrant grant program for entrepreneurs and nonprofits focused on culinary innovation and community giveback. 

The San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas culinary community through grants, educational programming, and events. Guided by an all-volunteer board of directors and committees made up of culinary- and community-minded professionals, the Alliance’s commitment is to support, inspire, and showcase Texas and beyond through the power of our diverse culinary communities.

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Tucker’s Kozy Korner announces updated menu

New menu offerings include Vietnamese coffees, pho, Texas barbecue plates, Southern comfort food and more. The Eastside joint will also be launching weekend brunch pop-ups with guest chefs. Photo: txtroulblemaker, used with permission.

Tucker’s Kozy Korner is excited to announce a complete menu revamp and updated hours with new offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The bar is working with local chefs to develop distinctive food offerings for each of its services so the breakfast, lunch, and dinner experiences are all unique. The Eastside joint will also collaborate with guest chefs on Saturdays and Sundays for brunch pop-ups. The new food offerings will be available starting on Wednesday, August 17, 2022. (Tucker’s Kozy Korner, 2022)

Breakfast offerings include Vietnamese soups with beef, chicken and vegetable options, allowing guests to also add eggs, steamed vegetables, tofu, and more. Guests can also enjoy the beloved breakfast taco, with options like brisket and egg, bacon and egg, and more. Unique coffee offerings include Vietnamese Egg Coffee (pour over coffee with egg and milk custard) and Vietnamese iced coffee. 

Local San Antonian Chef Jenny Nguyen developed the Vietnamese menu items. Originally from Vietnam, Jenny came to Texas and worked jobs in various industries while quietly selling her fare on the side to friends. Her menu inspiration comes from her background growing up in Vietnam and adding a little Texas twist. Partnering with Daniels Family Barbecue, Jenny’s soups and phos include Daniels’ famous brisket, chicken and ribs.

Master Chef Charles Daniels, known as Mr. Daniels, has been in the barbecue business for more than thirty years with his wife, Michelle. They have served up authentic pit barbecue and soulful dishes out of his Eastside San Antonio kitchen since the late 1980s. Mr. Daniels developed Tucker’s Kozy Korner’s menu to include breakfast tacos in the morning and traditional barbecue plates for lunch including brisket, chicken, or ribs served with side options like coleslaw, potato salad, borracho beans, green beans or cornbread. During lunch service, Chef Jenny’s pho options of beef, chicken or vegetable will also be available. 

Tucker’s Kozy Korner dinner menu is in partnership with Sweet Yams, an Eastside cafe offering a healthy menu with organic, gluten-free, and vegan options. Sweet Yams program at Tucker’s, called “Loretta’s Finest Southern Fried Chicken,” includes Southern fried chicken wings or chicken breast, with side options including garlic mashed potatoes, organic steamed vegetables, Southern red beans, and more. 

Hours of operation for Tucker’s Kozy Korner are:

• Closed on Mondays
Tuesday – Thursday: 7a.m – 11p.m. (bar open entire time, kitchen hours below)
   o Breakfast: 7a.m. – 10:30a.m.
   o Lunch: 11:30a.m. – 2p.m.
   o Dinner: 5p.m. – 9:30p.m.
Bar remains open until 11p.m.
Friday: 7a.m. – 2a.m. (bar open entire time, kitchen hours below)
   o Breakfast: 7a.m. – 10:30a.m.
   o Lunch: 11:30a.m. – 2p.m.
   o Dinner: 5p.m. – 9:30p.m.
Bar remains open until 2a.m.
Saturday: 11a.m. – 2a.m. (bar open entire time, kitchen hours below)
   o Brunch pop-ups by special guest chefs: 11a.m. – 3p.m.
Bar remains open until 2a.m.
Sunday: 11a.m. – 3p.m.
   o Brunch pop-ups by special guest chefs: 11a.m. – 3p.m.

Highly anticipated restaurant Carriqui announces opening date

Potluck Hospitality announces Carriqui opening date for September 2, 2022. Image courtesy of Don B. McDonald Architect, used with permission.

Potluck Hospitality is excited to announce that the highly anticipated 380-seat restaurant Carriqui will be opening to the public at Pearl on Friday, September 2, 2022, offering lunch and dinner service seven days a week. Named after the green jay of South Texas, the flightpath of the carriqui is the inspiration for the menu, which showcases South Texas foodways—from the Rio Grande Valley to the Texas coast and north to San Antonio. Such menu items include fresh seafood from the Gulf, Rio Grande-inspired botana platters, pit-cooked barbacoa and brisket, a masa program, and a robust cocktail and beverage program. (Potluck Hospitality, 2022)

Led by Executive Chef Jaime Gonzales, Carriqui is opening in the historic building formerly home to Boehler’s Liberty Saloon and Liberty Bar. The restaurant features three different main dining spaces: The Carriqui House, The Rock House and Courtyard & Back Porch. Private dining options for large groups and parties will also be available.

Business hours:
Open seven days a week
Sunday through Wednesday: 11a.m. – 10p.m.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 11a.m. – 11p.m.

Carriqui
239 E Grayson St.
San Antonio, TX 78215

Founded in 2022, Potluck Hospitality conceives, operates, manages, and partners on culinary and experiential brands in San Antonio, TX. Potluck Hospitality concepts include Best Quality Daughter, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou, Carriqui, Food Hall at Bottling Dept., Ladino, and Stable Hall (coming 2023). Potluck’s team is made up of chefs, designers, strategists in culture-crafting, brand, and finance that all share a love of food and gathering. Potluck Hospitality’s name pays tribute to memorable experiences with great food, great music, and great company–where everyone has something to contribute. Being together, sharing meals, and communally experiencing music is elemental to what it means to be human.

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Taco Cabana launches new limited-time menu items and Hatch Chile Margaritas

Taco Cabana celebrates Hatch Chile season with a new limited-time Hatch Chile Margarita and a full platform of new menu items. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Launching August 17, 2022, for the first time in the company’s history and in celebration of Hatch Chile season, Taco Cabana is offering all-new Hatch Chile Smoked Pulled Pork menu options at all Taco Cabana locations in Texas. Guests can enjoy Tacos for $3.19, a three-pack of Street Tacos served with Hatch Chile Ranch for $4.99, a Breakfast Bowl for $5.49, and a Crunchy Burrito served with Hatch Chile Ranch and tortilla chips for $8.59. Items are available for a limited-time only and while supplies last. (Taco Cabana, 2022)

Following the launch of Taco Cabana’s Margarita Headquarters, guests 21 years of age or older can enjoy the perfect complement to the new Hatch Chile food items – a refreshing frozen margarita with a kick, the all-new $4 Hatch Chile Margarita. The spicy tequila beverage will be this season’s rotating flavor offered alongside Taco Cabana’s 12 permanent margarita options available for $3 each all-day, every day.

“Hatch Chile season in Texas is a tradition, one that Texans look forward to every year. For the first time in Taco Cabana’s 40+ year history, we wanted to celebrate Hatch season with an exciting new Hatch Chile platform showcasing both food and beverage items. We’re introducing a Hatch Chile Breakfast Bowl, a Crunchy Burrito made with tortilla strips and adding to our recent Margarita Headquarters launch, a one-of-a-kind Hatch Chile Margarita. Guests can also enjoy Hatch Chile flavors with Taco Cabana favorites like street tacos and tacos served on our warm flour tortillas made daily in-restaurant.” – Ulyses Camacho, Taco Cabana’s Chief Operating Officer

Taco Cabana’s limited-time Hatch Chile 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 ordering online. 

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, tacos, 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, delivery, and catering. As of August 8, 2022, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

First impression: Lettuce Eat Salad

Lettuce Eat Salad has salads, wraps, and coffee. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Whenever I get a craving for a salad, I usually head for the nearest salad buffet restaurant. The only problem is that around here, those types of restaurants are hard to find. Sure, you can go to different restaurants and try their ‘salad buffets’ but honestly, the choices are limited and sometimes the ingredients are not too fresh. So when I heard about Lettuce Eat Salad in Brownsville, I was excited but hesitant to try it out.

Located on Pablo Kisel, it was not hard to find because it is among the many new restaurants in the area. It is a small location, but there is plenty of seating depending on the time of the day that you go. The first time I saw the buffet options, I was pleasantly surprised. They boast over 80 ingredients and they are not kidding. The menu options are limited because it is a salad buffet, so it is either a small for $9.99 or large for $10.99 so I went with the small. In reality, it looks like a large after you get all the ingredients you want. The employee puts it together for you, kind of like going to Subway and you only get one trip to the buffet but believe me one trip is enough. I also ordered a cup of the chicken enchilada soup for my dining companion, which is $5.75 since the soup options are limited as well; they only have one type but on a recent visit they also had mushroom soup, so it may vary from day to day.

With over 50 fresh toppings and dressings available, you can definitely customize your salad. Every visit is a chance to try a different type of salad. You can choose either a salad or have it in a wrap. They also have a variety of coffees ranging from Cappuccinos to Americano, either iced or hot, and soups. I have been back three times since then and every time I go, I have different fixings on my salad. This is one of the best experiences I have had with a salad bar because all the ingredients are fresh. The soup was tasty as well, it comes with a side of chips, and the iced latte was the perfect complement to my meal. It is clean and well lit and no doubt a favorite with people coming to and from the gym. The employees are friendly and helpful. I will definitely be returning more often and recommend this place to anyone looking for healthier options. Even if you do not always eat salads, give it a chance. You can always go eat tacos another day. Or detox the day after a taco binge. 

Lettuce Eat Salad
3341 Pablo Kisel Blvd, Ste R
Brownsville, TX 78526
(956) 265-7186

Business hours:
Monday – Friday 11a.m. to 8:30p.m.
Saturday 12p.m. to 6p.m.
Sunday – closed

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Full Goods Diner coming to Pearl in September

Full Goods Diner, a new restaurant concept by the owners of Paperboy in Austin, will offer casual and approachable fare with a nod to San Antonio’s culinary traditions. Photo: Paperboy, used with permission.

The owners behind successful Paperboy in Austin are excited to announce Full Goods Diner, a new restaurant coming to Pearl. The new diner is the product of San Antonio native and restaurateur Ryan Harms and chef Patrick Jackson of Paperboy in partnership with Potluck Hospitality. Full Goods Diner will open in September 2022 in the Full Goods building on the property, with an official opening date to be announced soon. The restaurant will be located at 200 E. Grayson St., San Antonio, TX 78215. (Potluck Hospitality, 2022)

“Having grown up in San Antonio, I am particularly excited to be back here, contributing to the city’s dining scene. We are so proud of what we’ve created with Paperboy in Austin and can’t wait to bring this fresh, yet familiar style of food and hospitality to our guests.” – owner Ryan Harms. 

Full Goods Diner will serve made from scratch, seasonally-driven food for breakfast and lunch with a menu consisting of comforting and familiar everyday food. Seasonal and local ingredients will be used to connect the restaurant to its central and south Texas roots with a blend of Mexican and American fare. Guests can expect to see menu items like handmade pastries, seasonal toasts, breakfast enchiladas, pancakes, sopes, carnitas tortas, hill country salads, and more. 

“We are excited to welcome Full Goods Diner to Pearl. Their menu is very reflective of San Antonio and we’re thrilled that they are anchoring Pearl’s new plaza and joining the excellent lineup of culinary concepts in the neighborhood.” – Pearl CEO Mesh Millsap

The design of Full Goods Diner embodies the warm and welcoming environment at Pearl with rich wooden accents, plenty of natural light, and a greenhouse-style entry. Full Goods Diner will also feature a patio that extends out into the new plaza space at Pearl that is also set to open this summer. The Full Goods team is excited to create this environment by working with Laura Brittain of Kempt Design Studio and architect Chioco Design

After graduating from Baylor University’s entrepreneurship program, San Antonio native Ryan Harms began working in the hospitality industry in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex before moving to Austin with the ultimate goal of owning his own restaurant. In 2015 he launched the successful Paperboy food truck, which ultimately transitioned into an even more successful brick-and-mortar location by the same name. 

In 2017, chef Patrick Jackson joined the Paperboy team as executive chef and was integral in helping to get the permanent location off the ground. Patrick grew up making pasta with his Italian grandfather and has been in the kitchen ever since. He was an invaluable part of the opening teams at The Lark and Lucky Penny in Santa Barbara’s funk zone, as well as Herb & Wood in San Diego’s Little Italy before his move to Texas. Patrick is joined at Full Goods Diner by chef de cuisine, Ruvin Samarasundera, who has worked under legendary chefs including Thomas Keller and Michael Chiarello and has been with the Paperboy team since 2021.

Founded in 2022, Potluck Hospitality conceives, operates, manages, and partners on culinary and experiential brands in San Antonio, TX. Potluck’s team is made up of chefs, designers, strategists in culture-crafting, brand, and finance who share a love of food and gathering. Potluck Hospitality’s name pays tribute to memorable experiences with great food, great music, and great company–where everyone has something to contribute. Being together, sharing meals, and communally experiencing music is elemental to what it means to be human.

Taco Cabana launches ‘Margarita Headquarters’

Taco Cabana launches ‘Margarita Headquarters’ with twelve permanent Margarita flavors to choose from all day every day. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Following three wildly successful launches of Taco Cabana’s popular MargaritaPalooza over the last two years, Taco Cabana recently announced its plans to establish its Texas locations as “Margarita Headquarters,” featuring 12 permanent margarita offerings on the TC menu. Available flavors will include beloved frozen classics like Lime, Strawberry, Mango, Strawberry Mango and Mangonada, in addition to returning favorites like Blue Curacao, Watermelon, Dragonfruit, Blood Orange, Green Apple and new exciting flavors including Coconut and Pineapple. Each will be available for $3 all day, every day. (Taco Cabana, 2022)

“Margaritapalooza was a game changer for Taco Cabana. There was so much fun and excitement for both guests and team members when we previously executed it across the TC system. We pride ourselves on listening to what our guests want, and they have consistently asked us for on-going, everyday margarita innovation and variety, not just during certain times of the year. We are now thrilled to establish ourselves as the ‘Margarita Headquarters’ with so many margarita flavors for our guests to choose from each and every day.”  – Ulyses Camacho, Chief Operating Officer at Taco Cabana

In addition to the 12 margarita flavors, a rotating thirteenth flavor will also be seasonally available for $4. Previous seasonal margarita offerings have included flavors like Pickle, Pumpkin Spice, and Cherry, among others. New or returning seasonal margaritas will be announced on an ongoing basis. Margarita Headquarters launches in San Antonio on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 and across all other Texas TC markets on Wednesday, August 3, 2022.

In addition to launching “Margarita Headquarters,” Taco Cabana will offer a summertime happy hour from 4p.m. to 7p.m. Sunday through Thursday for dine-in and drive-thru guests starting July 20, 2022 at all San Antonio locations.

Happy hour items will include:

  • $2 Lime or Strawberry Margaritas 
  • $2 domestic beer 
  • Half-price bean & cheese nachos 
  • $1.50 bean & cheese chalupa 
  • $1 bean & cheese taco 

Taco Cabana is also extending its drive-thru hours of operation at all restaurants across San Antonio. Below are the new hours of operation for all San Antonio location drive-thrus:

  • Open Sunday through Thursday from 6a.m. to 12a.m. 
  • Open Friday and Saturday from 6a.m. to 2a.m.
  • Dining rooms will continue to close at 10p.m. 

Lastly, Taco Cabana will welcome the return of its beloved salsa bar in all restaurants in San Antonio on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. The salsa bars will include Roja, Fuego, Salsa Ranch, Taco Cabana’s new salsa Verde, Pico de Gallo, and pickled jalapeños. 

All new 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 or Taco Cabana.

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Tex-Mex-inspired food including enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, tacos, 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 July 18, 2022, Taco Cabana operates 142 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

First impression: Bonita Flats Farm & Vineyard

Bonita Flats Farm & Vineyard in Los Fresnos. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Having spent the last few years in the big city, I had become accustomed to visiting wineries to enjoy a wine tasting or two. Since we relocated to the area, those visits have become rare since wineries and vineyards are not too common here in the Rio Grande Valley, especially in the small town of Los Fresnos. When I heard about Bonita Flats Farm & Vineyard, I jumped at the chance to check it out for myself and the weekend is the perfect time so I headed out there on Saturday.

Finding the place is not that hard if you are familiar with the area. It is located northeast of Los Fresnos, a mile 1/2 north of Highway 100 on FM 3069. Take Highway 100 going towards Port Isabel, turn left on Bobz World, and about a mile or less, Bonita Flats is on the right hand. Given the harsh hot South Texas summer weather, they are open in the later afternoon and evening, starting at 3p.m. Me and three other wine afficionados were excited to finally get a chance to try this place out and managed to get there at the perfect time right before sunset.

The outside sitting areas have plenty of shade and we managed to get a table for four. Melissa Delgado, one of the owners, promptly came over and introduced herself, told us all about the place and the type of wines they have, and got us started with a bottle of Chenin Blanc. We ordered the Charcuterie platter and a Margherita pizza for everyone. Within minutes we got the Charcuterie platter but had to wait a little longer for the pizza but once it was ready, it was easy to see why it took so long: it is made fresh with their own herbs and tomatoes. Definitely worth the wait. To wrap up the evening, we ordered a bottle of Dolcetto Rosé.

Live music for the night was courtesy of Cactus Willie who performed with his acoustic guitar. His voice is similar to Willie Nelson and even though he performs Willie Nelson songs, he also sings a variety of songs, from John Denver to the Beatles. He also performs at Pirates Landing at South Padre Island.

According to Art Delgado, future plans for Bonita Flats include a café to serve breakfast and brunch and bringing back the ‘vegetables by the bag’ in the fall season.

Overall, the combination of an evening outdoor setting, wine tasting, and tasty bites accompanied by live music made for a pleasant experience. The food was excellent and so was the wine. They have only been opened for three months and have so many plans for the place and by the looks of it, they are headed in the right direction. I cannot wait to see how they grow and will definitely return. I recommend Bonita Flats to anyone looking for a quiet place to unwind with friends and family and of course, a glass of wine and a slice of pizza. Next time you need to relax after a long week, head on over, maybe we will run into each other. Thank you to owners Art and Melissa Delgado for answering all our questions.

Current menu:
Wine menu: Whites: Trebbiano, Chenin Blanc ($8 glass, $25 bottle), Rosé: Dolcetto Rosé, Immaculate Rosé, and Reds: Anglianico, Cabernet Sauvignon ($10 glass, $32 bottle)
Pizza made with farm fresh herbs and tomatoes ($12) pepperoni, Margherita
Charcuterie ($15) includes Manchego, aged Cheddar, and Gouda cheeses, fresh fruit (grapes and watermelon slices), crackers, salami, and green olives.

Art and Melissa Delgado established Bonita Flats Farm and Vineyard in 2016. They have dedicated 4 greenhouses and 1 acre of row crops to growing a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. All produce is grown using organic practices, without any harmful pesticides. They also use all organic and non-GMO seeds for planting. (Bonita Flats Farm and Vineyard, 2022)

Business hours:
Friday 3p.m. to 11p.m.
Saturday 3p.m. to 11p.m.
Sunday 3p.m. to 8p.m.

New restaurant concept, Carriqui, coming to the Pearl

Carriqui will showcase South Texas foodways—from the Rio Grande Valley to the Texas coast and north to San Antonio. Image courtesy of Don B. McDonald Architect, used with permission.

Potluck Hospitality is excited to announce a new restaurant coming to a historic and landmark San Antonio space. Carriqui (pronounced KHER-ih-key) will open at Pearl in what was formerly the building that housed Boehler’s Liberty Saloon and Liberty Bar. The new 380-seat, 11,000 square foot restaurant will open to the public in September 2022. Carriqui is located at 239 E Grayson St., San Antonio, TX 78215. (Potluck Hospitality, 2022)

Carriqui is named after the green jay of South Texas, the only place in the US where you can find this colorful and gregarious bird. The flightpath of the carriqui is the inspiration for the menu, which will showcase South Texas foodways—from the Rio Grande Valley to the Texas coast and north to San Antonio. The menu will feature fresh seafood from the Gulf, Rio Grande-inspired botana platters, pit-cooked barbacoa and brisket, a masa program, and a robust cocktail and beverage program.

“We are thrilled to announce Carriqui, which has been in the making for years. As stewards of the storied structure, we are excited for the building’s next chapter. We have assembled a great team to showcase the foodways of South Texas and welcome all of San Antonio to gather, relax and celebrate here.” – Potluck Hospitality CEO Elizabeth Fauerso

A team of food and beverage industry veterans make up the leadership at Carriqui. Executive Chef Jaime Gonzalez, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Pasadena and former Executive Chef at Supper at Hotel Emma in San Antonio will lead the kitchen. Nash Zink will serve as Chef de Cuisine and Cassie McCloud will head up the bar program at Carriqui. Michael McClellan will serve as General Manager and Dominique Campa will serve as Assistant General Manager.

“It is an honor to work on this project. I am deeply passionate about the culinary program at Carriqui, which pays tribute to the flavors and foods that are central to our region. The food and experience will be warm and familiar–like you are spending time in the home of a close friend who also happens to be a great cook.” – Executive Chef Jaime Gonzalez.

Don B. McDonald Architects and Troy Jessee Construction, both of San Antonio, conceptualized and executed the interior design. Architect Don McDonald and Designer Kristen Weber led the charge on creating new spaces that would compliment the historic structure and pay homage to the building’s past lives. The restoration of the historic building (it was moved twice) lasted years and involved the expertise of dozens of artisans, building specialists, and tradespeople. 

In the early days of Pearl, Boehler’s Liberty Saloon served as the watering hole and social center for the brewery’s workers. In 1933 when prohibition ended, Pearl Brewery’s first truck delivered to this special location. Then from 1985 until 2008, the building was home to San Antonio’s heralded Liberty Bar, which moved to the King William neighborhood in 2016.

Carriqui aims to honor its past and usher in the next chapter with the very best offerings of food and atmosphere with every intention of creating a space for joyful gathering. Carriqui was created by and for San Antonians, and the experience of being at Carriqui will resonate deeply for locals with its sense of history and home, and for visitors, it will offer a glimpse into what makes San Antonio special.

Carriqui will be open to the public seven days a week and will offer lunch and dinner service. The restaurant features three different main dining spaces: The Carriqui House, The Rock House, and Courtyard & Back Porch. Private dining options for large groups and parties will also be available. The official opening date for Carriqui will be announced soon.