Category: Dining Out

Project Pollo’s Fourth of July event

This Fourth of July, Project Pollo is offering 1,000 free Smart Dogs, tasty menu samples, a chance to shop local vendors, and a hot dog eating contest to support local nonprofits. Photo: Project Pollo, used with permission.

This is a July Fourth celebration that is going to the dogs—hot dogs, that is. On Sunday, July 4, from noon to 4p.m., San Antonio’s only vegan chicken fast food restaurant chain invites the public to its 303 San Pedro location, where 1,000 Vegan Lightlife Smart Dogs will be given away. The free dogs are part of a day filled with food, philanthropy, and doggone fun designed for both the plant-based and plant-curious diners alike. (Project Pollo, 2021)

Project Pollo has been disrupting the fast-food industry with its vegan chicken concept since opening its doors in the fall of 2020 and it shows no signs of slowing down. With five new restaurants throughout San Antonio, nine more scheduled to open across Texas by the end of the year, and a long range plan of 100 locations in the U.S. by the year 2024, the locally based restaurant is committed to making plant-based options affordable, accessible, and most of all, delicious.

FOOD
Smart Dogs are not the only thing on the holiday menu. Guests will be able to try FREE samples of some of Project Pollo’s newest items, including the decadent double chocolate cookie or creamy strawberry shortcake milkshakes made with Oatly Milk. In addition, the full menu, complete with the signature Original Project Chickn sandwich, the loaded Papas smothered in Credo Cashew Queso, and the vegan Mac n Cheese will be available for purchase. It is the perfect time to exercise your freedom to explore just how good plant-based eating can be.

PHILANTHROPY
What is a Fourth of July party without an eating contest? Project Pollo is inviting representatives from local nonprofits to participate in a “dog-off.” For every Smart Dog consumed, $25 will be donated to the organization. The grand prize winner will walk away with a $500 donation. A supply drive will be held for supporters to drop off donations and show their support for the participating organizations. It is all part of Project Pollo’s “people over profits” philosophy that extends to the community year-round. Through the “People Project,” charitable initiative, Project Pollo donates two additional sandwiches for the sale of every $5.50 People Project Crispy Strip sandwich. This effort allows the company to give away a minimum of 1,000 sandwiches on a designated day each quarter to those in need. In addition, for those who cannot afford the $5.50 cost, a “pay what you can” option is available, making it easier for everyone to enjoy sustainable foods.

FUN
Ate too many Smart Dogs? Walk it off as you browse local vendors who will be showcasing their wares during the Fourth of July event. Artists, plant sellers, and other merchants will be on hand with unique items to purchase. Shop, snack, and support local.

Established in 2020 by vegan entrepreneur Lucas Bradbury, Project Pollo gives a cluck about the planet and the people who inhabit it. The first of its kind plant-based fast-food chicken concept, Project Pollo is built on bold flavors and bolder principles, including fair wages, sustainability, and people over profit. The scratch-made menu offers delicious vegan chicken sandwiches, wraps, and strips, as well as plenty of mouthwatering sides, including crispy Papas, smothered in cashew queso, and Mac N Cheese. Project Pollo is committed to changing the face of the fast-food industry by offering affordable, delicious, convenient access to quality, plant-based options that everyone from the veteran vegan to the curious carnivore will enjoy. With locations across Texas (some drive-thru), Project Pollo hopes to spread its wings to 100 stores by 2024.

First impression: Worthy Nutrition & Energy

Worthy Nutrition & Energy. Photo: Sandra Cruz

It is encouraging to see more restaurants offering healthier options in the Brownsville area.  Most are small, locally owned businesses and Saturday it was time for me to finally visit Worthy Nutrition & Energy on Alton Gloor Blvd. I usually drive through this area but seldom have time to slow down and take a closer look. They had been advertising their Customer Appreciation Day all week so this was the perfect opportunity to stop by.

Being that it was close to noon, the place was already buzzing with activity. I was greeted by Mariah and automatically felt welcomed and appreciated; like I was among friends. As you are coming in, to the right they have a seating section made up of two chairs and a couch that has a cushion with the stitching “sit & stay awhile” proudly welcoming people to hang out. To the left there is a staging section with a half outline of balloons and  the words “You Are Worthy” written on the wall that is meant for pictures and sure enough, most customers were taking pictures with it to post online. For the promotional day, they had pastries, a vegetable tray, and other goodies for customers to enjoy.

Since this was my first time there, the extensive menu seemed a little intimidating but Mariah explained all my options. I ordered the Twisted Apple Tea and it turned out so delicious, energizing, and refreshing for these South Texas hot days. They had a specialty menu for their Customer Appreciation Day which included the Twisted Apple Tea. It came festively decorated with a mini umbrella and I was pleasantly surprised to see they use paper straws. Big plus! I have my eye on the iced coffee with protein, maybe next time because I will definitely be back. With every purchase, customers had the option to sign up for a raffle that they were going to have at the end of the day. Sadly, I did not win.  The prizes looked so nice.

Classified as a smoothie and juice bar, Worthy Nutrition & Energy is an outstanding place to hang out and get a healthy drink along with tasty baked treats. If you are not in a hurry, stick around and chill, there are many sitting options and the staff is so friendly and helpful. Thanks to Mariah as well as Ricky and Alex, the owners, for taking the time to talk to me and answer my questions. As Mariah mentioned, they strive to provide area residents with healthier options, especially during these COVID times when it is important to stay healthy. So remember, shop small, shop local, and maybe I will see you there the next time around.  

“Worthy Nutrition & Energy is a place for high energy, good vibes, and a hub for a healthy, active lifestyle! We serve delicious protein shakes, energizing teas, iced coffee and so much more!” (Worthy Nutrition & Energy, 2021)

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Price Range: $$

Worthy Nutrition & Energy
1501 E. Alton Gloor Blvd.
Brownsville, TX 78526
(956) 667-1771

Business hours:
Monday – Friday 7a.m. to 6p.m.
Saturday 9a.m. to 4p.m.
Sunday CLOSED

  • Twisted Apple Tea
  • Customer Appreciation Day
  • Ready for pictures
  • One of the stations
  • One of the seating areas

Whataburger’s latest limited-time summer menu

Whataburger’s Pico De Gallo Burger is back. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.

Back by popular demand, the Whataburger Pico De Gallo Burger is back, and the brand is serving up more Southwest flavor than ever before with all-new Whataburger Pico de Gallo Chicken Sandwiches. Plus, shaking things up, literally, with the new Whataburger Peaches & Cream Shake. (Whataburger, 2021)

Celebrating the rich culture of pico de gallo, the Whataburger Pico de Gallo Burger and Pico de Gallo Chicken Sandwiches feature ingredients like pepper jack cheese, crisp pico de gallo, and a Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce, which create a unique pop of bright flavors with the perfect kick. Nothing says sweet summertime like the new limited-time Whataburger Peaches & Cream Shake, which boasts a perfectly blended flavor of peach and vanilla with just the right level of sweetness. All items are available now for a limited time, and prices vary by market.

Whataburger has been making burgers since 1950 when Harman Dobson opened a humble hamburger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas.  He wanted customers to take one bite and say, “What a burger” so he named his stand on Ayers St “Whataburger.” Whataburger now has over 800 locations across the country and continues to deliver fresh, made to order meals everyday with superior customer service.  Community support includes charitable giving and volunteerism to nonprofit organizations that focus on children’s charities, cancer research, hunger assistance, disaster relief, and military support.

First impression: Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen

The bar at Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Friday nights are meant for eating out, after working hard all week, as well as exploring our community and finding new eating spots, preferably locally owned. This time we ended up in downtown Brownsville to check out Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen, recommended by our neighbor Noelle who happens to be the manager.

Finding the restaurant was easy but finding a parking spot was not. It is hard to tell from the outside, but the interior is huge. The extensive bar area is the first thing you notice when you walk in, that should tell you that it is an important part of Terras. The spacious interior has enough tables for dining in and thankfully it is brightly lit and the background music is not too loud. There was no waiting time because we got there shortly after they opened, so the hostess sat us right away. Nothing says upscale restaurant like having to wait to be seated, then receiving a drink menu and having to use your QR scanner to get the food menu.

For my Friday night drink I ordered the Margarita ($6) even though my choices were decent. We ordered the Calabaza De Temporada ($8) and the American Wagyu Sirloin ($30) along with a Caesar Salad ($8) and a Strawberry Salad ($8). We were hoping for complimentary chips and salsa, or bread and butter, while we waited for the food but there was none so we ended up ordering the chips and salsa ($2). No iced tea either, just aguas frescas and Mexican soda pops. We received the salads first and were pleasantly surprised to see how big they are. Not only are the portions generous, but they are delicious and all the ingredients are fresh. The main dishes were excellent too, and even though the Calabaza De Temporada is just the basic squash, the taste is impressive, my compliments to the chef on such an incredibly tasty dish.

Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen is definitely worth the trip downtown. In a city filled with mostly taquerias and cookie cutter Mexican restaurants, this upscale restaurant offers an extensive drink menu and delectable dishes with flavors not often found in this region. Menu offerings include Coliflor Frita, Betabeles Enchilados, tacos (ribeye, cochinita pibil, porkbelly carnitas), and many more. A big thank you to Samarra, the waitress for the night and Noelle for taking the time to talk to us and answer our questions. The prices may be a little higher than most restaurants, but you get what you pay for. You can be reassured that we will be back soon. Remember: shop local, shop small. Your community will thank you.

In 2014, co-founders Christian Nevarez (Head Chef) and Juan Flores (Bar Manager) met working at a local restaurant. They shared a vision of creating a unique culinary and craft cocktail experience in Brownsville, Texas. They set up shop on Elizabeth St. in Historic Downtown Brownsville. Within a year of opening, Juan, Christian, and their staff brought a unique dining experience to Downtown Brownsville with creations like the Shrimp Molcajete, Pineapple Moscow Mule, Ribeye Mole, and Sangre de Azteca. Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen was established in 2016 under three driving forces: local, unique, and community. (Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen, 2021)

$ – $$$
Terras Urban Mexican Kitchen
1212 E Washington St.
Brownsville, TX 78520

Business hours:
Thursday 5p.m. – 10p.m.
Friday 5p.m. – 2a.m.
Saturday 5p.m. – 2a.m.
Sunday 11a.m. – 3p.m.
Monday Closed
Tuesday 5p.m. – 10p.m.

Rating: 4 out of 5.
  • Margarita
  • Strawberry Salad
  • Aguas frescas section
  • Caesar Salad
  • American Wagyu Sirloin
  • Calabaza De Temporada

First impression: Raw Xocolat

Raw Xocolatl in Brownsville. Photo: Sandra Cruz

I love weekends because I get to explore not only my town but the surrounding cities in the hopes of finding new and interesting places to shop or eat, especially if it is a small, locally owned business. Sunday I headed over to Brownsville to check out a new, at least to me, health food store/chocolate shop. From what I understand, Raw Xocolat has been around for some time, selling their goods online and in farmers markets but they recently got a brick and mortar in Brownsville. I am in constant search for healthier food options and when my nephew recently pointed this one out to me, I could not wait to try it. I mean, chocolate, raw goods, healthy snack options, this place was calling my name.

It was not hard to find and luckily there was no waiting because, again, I prefer to do my shopping early in the day. I was not sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw tables for dine-in and a menu that offers drinks and pastries, along with their chocolate products. The interior is brightly lit and beautifully decorated with a combination of chocolates and coffee bean products, coffee mugs, and other knickknacks. The black and white color palette gives it an aura of elegance and sophistication. I was already hooked and decided to try a sampling of several items.

From comments on social media, I knew that their Aztek Gold beverage is one of their best sellers, so I ordered mine on ice with almond milk. I am not thrilled that there is a .75 extra charge for the almond milk but for now that is not important. This drink is their version of Golden Milk, an Indian beverage that is hyped for its healing, anti-inflammatory properties due in part to the curcumin found in turmeric. Turmeric has been used for thousands of years to treat conditions such as breathing problems, joint pain, fatigue, digestive issues, and more. The other spices it contains are ginger and cinnamon, both of which are also known for their anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory benefits. My husband ordered it hot with regular milk. I was not disappointed at all. It is so delicious, whether iced or hot.

I needed something to eat with my Aztec Gold so I ordered two of their tamales: the bean and cheese and the (vegan) jack fruit with red peppers. For dessert, I ordered two Madeleines, two macarons (French pastries), a chocolate biscotti, and a 2oz. vegan white chocolate Matcha spread for use at home. Everything is reasonable priced, so I ended up spending $23.82, not including the tip afterwards. That is not too bad because everything is so delicious and I am definitely coming back for more. I have found my go-to place for scrumptious chocolates and treats, and of course, those vegan tamales alone are worth a return trip.

The vegan white chocolate Matcha spread, Madeleines, macarons, chocolate biscotti, and hot Aztek Gold. Photo: Sandra Cruz

A big thank you to the staff and owner Jesse who took the time to talk to me and patiently answered my questions about this family-owned business. According to them, their recent ‘soft opening’ was a success and business is going well. Everyone is so courteous and attentive so if you come in and are unsure what to order, they take the time to explain their products. It is rare to have a shop in Brownsville that sells these types of quality products, so do yourself and your taste buds a favor and shop small, shop local. Your community will thank you and so will Raw Xocolat.

$$

Business hours:
Monday – Friday 9a.m. to 8p.m.
Saturday 10a.m. – 8p.m.
Sunday 10a.m. – 8p.m.

Raw Xocolat
500 E. Morrison Rd. Ste. H
Brownsville, TX 78526

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Hopdoddy’s Father’s Day deals

Hopdoddy’s Goodnight/Good Cause burger. Photo: Hopdoddy Burger Bar, used with permission.

For Father’s Day, Hopdoddy Burger Bar is giving guests options for dining in or celebrating at home. (Hopdoddy Burger Bar, 2021)

Celebrating at Hopdoddy- 

  • On Father’s Day, June 20, Hopdoddy is offering a second beef patty on the house with the purchase of a burger or burger bowl. Just mention the promotion in-person at any one of the burger joint’s restaurant locations or select the double beef option when ordering online for curbside or pickup.

Celebrating at Home – 

  • Just in time for Father’s Day, Hopdoddy is relaunching its DIY Doddy Burger Kit to make celebrating at a home easy. Available starting Wednesday, June 16, the kit includes everything you need to make Hopdoddy cheeseburgers and truffle fries for a family of 5 at home, all for only $29.95
  • Certified Piedmontese is offering a select steaks box designed in collaboration with Hopdoddy’s Chef, Matt Schweitzer, for Father’s Day. Hopdoddy fans can use promo code HDFD to get 20% off and free shipping only on the Certified Piedmontese website.

In 2010, four friends had a goal: to set a new standard for burger bars. Hopdoddy pushed the boundaries of what is expected by bringing together craft beer and unique burger concoctions – all with high-quality ingredients and even higher standards. With every purchase of a Goodnight/Good Cause burger, a portion of the proceeds give back to Hopdoddy’s favorite community charitable organizations.

First impression: The Boost Lf

The Cherry Bomb tea from The Boost Lf. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Since Monday was a federal holiday, I had some extra time on my hands and decided to do some local exploring. There is a fairly new small business in town that I have been meaning to try but somehow I always get distracted so this was a perfect time. The Boost Lf here in Los Fresnos is a self-described health and wellness business and I tend to favor the small, locally owned ones. Some of the items on the menu include energy teas, protein shakes, iced coffees, and even waffles and donuts.

I went early enough in the day, so I guess I lucked out because there was no waiting. The interior is brightly lit with booming music and the atmosphere is pleasant and cheerful. Currently there are only a couple of small tables for dine-in , but hopefully with easing COVID restrictions, this will change later. According to Chelly, the owner, business is booming and the ongoing dreadful construction has not affected her business. I decided to try out the Cherry Bomb tea, one of her best-sellers.

I was pleasantly surprised at the size of this drink; it is a generous sized portion. The cold, icy drink has a sweet and tart flavor combination and was a treat on what was beginning to be another hot and humid day in South Texas. This particular flavor promises an energy boost and includes real cherries. I counted six of them. They also have small Herbalife protein based snack bars for energy and nutrition, so I opted for two of those, one being the citrus lemon. These are rather tasty as well. Everything is moderately priced, I paid $13 for a tea and two protein bars

So next time you are craving a snack, do yourself a favor, put down the potato chip bag and head on over to The Boost here in town for a healthy treat. I think I will try the iced coffees next, because, after all, summer has unofficially started. I just wish it was open in the evenings for us night owls. Thanks to Chelly for taking the time to answer all my questions. Support local, small businesses; they will love you for it.

$$

Business hours:
Monday through Friday 7:30a.m. to 2p.m. and 4:30p.m. to 6p.m.
Saturday 8:30a.m. to 2p.m.
Closed Sunday

The Boost Lf
218 N Arroyo Blvd, Suite A
Los Fresnos, TX 78566
(956) 233-2215

Rating: 3 out of 5.

Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café now offers catering

Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café now offers catering. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café is adding catering to its mix and will bring its decadently delightful take on crêpes and other savory menu offerings to your home, office, or event for 20 guests or more.  (Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café, 2021)

Sweet Paris’ Build Your Own Crêpes catering menu is ideal for anyone planning a party for a group of 20 guests or more for breakfast meetings, lunch, or dinner.  The company waives travel fees for events within 20 minutes of its location at The Shops at La Cantera. Catering professionals will customize a menu for your event and budget. For party planning call (714) 797-5496 or submit your request to Al Bueno.  Orders can be prepared on site or served boxed as a complete meal.

Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café is a Parisian-inspired, fast casual restaurant located on Main Street at The Shops at La Cantera. It offers a critically acclaimed selection of sweet and savory crêpes, from apple cinnamon Crème Brȗlée and s’mores made with Nutella®, torched marshmallows, graham crackers and semi-sweet chocolate to the ribeye-and-provolone stuffed Philly cheesesteak, and the Nordic made with smoked salmon, dill sour cream, pickled red onions, and capers.

A sumptuous assortment of breakfast crêpes is on the evolving brunch menu, which includes paninis, salads, soups and options for gluten-free crêpes.

Founded in Houston, Texas in 2012, Sweet Paris has locations in Rice Village, CityCentre, Katy, Highland Village, College Station, The Woodlands, and Nuevo Vallarta — with new locations coming to Baybrook, San Antonio and more.

“As we gather together again, take your guests on a culinary trip to Paris without stamping a passport. We will come to you and prepare our flavorful sweet and savory creations on site. Office parties, home parties, bridal parties, baby showers, birthdays, bar mitzvahs, wedding receptions, dinner clubs and more, gives us an opportunity to invite a new segment of the population to experience our food and further touch the lives of our restaurant guests.” – Al Bueno, lead crêpe crafter and catering coordinator for Sweet Paris.  

Three Star Bar to open in San Antonio this summer

Three Star Bar, a new bar and restaurant by Jeret Peña, Chef Josh Calderon, and Rob Gourlay, will open in San Antonio in July 2021. Photo: Three Star Bar, used with permission.

Boulevardier Group Owner Jeret Peña, Chef Josh Calderon, and notable San Antonio bartender Rob Gourlay are excited to announce a new restaurant and bar, Three Star Bar, set to open in San Antonio this July. The new 7,000 square foot eatery will feature deli-inspired cuisine and comfort food in addition to boasting a full bar with a focus on high quality whiskey and local brews. Three Star Bar will seat approximately 140 people and will be located at 521 E Grayson St. in San Antonio, across from Hello Paradise and in the Government Hill district. (Three Star Bar, 2021)

Three Star Bar will have a welcoming atmosphere with nods to vintage food and drink memorabilia. The menu will offer appetizers like whiskey and maple glazed meatballs, deviled eggs, and borracho bean hummus, while the main entrées include a variety of fresh sandwiches filled with pork, meatballs, cured beef, and more. The cocktail menu will offer a variety of spirits but focus on high quality whiskeys, local brews, a selection of wines, and more. A full menu and opening date for Three Star Bar will be announced at a later date.

Three Star Bar is the latest restaurant and bar concept by Jeret Peña, who owns the Boulevardier Group, Hello Paradise, and is involved in the cocktail programs at Esquire Tavern, House of Má, Hugman’s Oasis and more. Peña is the co-owner and beverage director at Three Star Bar, while co-owner Rob Gourlay serves as general manager and Josh Calderon takes the helm of the kitchen as the chef/culinary director and co-owner.

Chef Calderon previously ran the kitchen at Cookhouse as Executive Chef and managed Bud’s Southern Rotisserie in San Antonio after moving back to the city from California, where he served as the Executive Chef for the Belcampo Group. Calderon received his certification at The Culinary Institute of America San Antonio campus and later earned his associate’s and bachelor’s degrees from The Culinary Institute of America Hyde Park campus in New York.

“We’re really excited to open Three Star Bar. It’s a really casual concept that doesn’t sacrifice quality. The food and beverage menus are relaxed, but still use high-end ingredients.” – Co-Owner Jeret Peña

Three Star Bar is a deli-inspired restaurant and bar in San Antonio, TX, by cocktail enthusiast and Boulevardier Group Owner Jeret Peña, Chef Josh Calderon and General Manager Rob Gourlay. The restaurant and bar is located just north of downtown San Antonio and offers casual dining with deli-inspired cuisine and comfort food in addition to boasting a full bar with a focus on high quality whiskey and local brews.

Hopdoddy Burger Bar’s Memorial Day deals that give back

Hopdoddy Burger Bar’s Good Cause burger. Photo: Hopdoddy, used with permission.

This Memorial Day weekend, from Friday, May 28 – Monday, May 31, Hopdoddy will donate a percentage of proceeds from all menu items purchased to the SEAL Legacy Foundation, a charity that provides support to families of wounded and fallen U.S. Navy Seals. (Hopdoddy Burger Bar, 2021)

Established in 2011, the SEAL Legacy Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt organization based in Austin, TX. The Foundation was founded by SEALS is run by SEALS, and supports the brave men of the U.S. Navy SEALS Teams by providing educational assistance for SEALS and their families and other charitable causes benefitting the SEAL community.

All Hopdoddy orders can be placed in-person at any one of the burger joint’s restaurant locations or online for curbside or pickup.

In 2010, four friends had a goal: to set a new standard for burger bars. Hopdoddy Burger Bar pushed the boundaries of what is expected by bringing together craft beer and unique burger concoctions – all with high-quality ingredients and even higher standards. With every purchase of a Goodnight Good Cause burger, a portion of the proceeds give back to Hopdoddy’s favorite community charitable organizations.