Valentine’s Day menu at Ladino

Ladino will be offering a multi-coursed Mediterranean inspired tasting menu for Valentine’s Day. Photo: Ladino, used with permission.

Ladino will be celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special tasting menu available Tuesday, February 14. Treat your partner to a “Lovers Day” multi-coursed Mediterranean inspired tasting menu that will focus on seasonal Texas produce and traditional Mediterranean fare with a modern take perfectly paired with wines selected highlighting the region. (Ladino, 2023)

Tickets are $115 per person with optional wine pairing ($60 per person). Reservations can be made online.

Ladino
200 E Grayson St 100
San Antonio, TX 78215

1676385774

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Valentine’s Day

Taco Cabana launches two new Double Crunch Pizza flavors

The new Double Crunch Pizza options launch Thursday, February 2, 2023. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Due to popular demand, Taco Cabana will add two all-new Double Crunch Pizza (DCP) flavors this February following the release of its first-ever pizza in December 2022. Launching February 2, 2023, a Chorizo and Egg Double Crunch Pizza, available all day – perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner – and a Shredded Chicken Double Crunch Pizza will be added to the TC menu. The new flavors will continue TC’s tradition of culinary innovation and will be available for just $4.99 at all Texas Taco Cabana locations. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

“Over the last 30 days, since the launch of our Ground Beef Double Crunch Pizza in mid-December, the TC guest response and engagement has been incredible. Our guests immediately began asking us for more DCP options and we listened and responded. We’re excited to launch two new, available all-day DCP line extensions, and we will continue to develop within our innovation culinary pipeline across a number of different platforms for the future as well.” – Ulyses Camacho, Chief Operating Officer, Taco Cabana

TC’s Double Crunch Pizzas are composed of two crispy tortillas blended with corn and flour, layered with the guest’s choice of seasoned ground beef, flavor-packed shredded chicken or chorizo and egg, refried beans, chipotle ranch dressing, and Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, topped with Pico de Gallo, shredded cheese and drizzled with sour cream. Guests 21 years of age or older can complement their Double Crunch Pizza selection with their choice of one of TC’s 12 refreshing margarita options available for $3 each all day, every day at TC’s Margarita Headquarters. This flavor-filled combination is not to be missed.

All 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 ordering online or by using the MY TC!® App.

Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, here is some menu news for the big day. Meat lovers and crispy flauta fans alike will find much to enjoy at Taco Cabana this Valentine’s Day. Food is the way to the heart, and fortunately, Taco Cabana is paving the way. Foodie couples looking for some bites will have the choice of a Shredded Chicken Taco Plate, a Ground Beef Taco Plate, or a three-pack Flauta Plate for just $10.99. Each plate comes with an array of tasty rice, refried beans or black beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole, and two tortillas.

Guests 21 years of age or older can pair their special meal with one of Taco Cabana’s many frozen margarita flavors or a sweet treat such as TC’s delectable Oreo Churros.

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 $3 tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up, delivery and catering. As of January 19, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

Gift ideas for Valentine’s Day

Hiatus Spa + Retreat has Valentine’s Day Spa Packages available. Photo: Hiatus Spa + Retreat, used with permission.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so if you need some ideas to celebrate, consider the following from Carriqui, Bakery Lorraine, San Antonio Museum of Art, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, and Hiatus Spa + Retreat:

Carriqui will host its inaugural Valentine’s Day dinner Tuesday, February 14 from 4p.m. to 9p.m. In addition to the regular menu, a three-course tasting menu is also available for $85 per person. Romantic add-ons are available online or can be requested upon arrival at the restaurant. The add-ons include house-made chocolate truffles or long-stem chocolate covered strawberries from the Carriqui pastry team ($25), fresh cut flower bouquet from Statue of Design ($50), and a bottle of Delamotte Brut champagne ($100).

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Carriqui
239 E. Grayson, San Antonio, TX 78215
Tuesday, February 14 – 4p.m. to 9p.m.

The three-course tasting menu includes:

1st Course – Choice of avocado and tomato salad with arugula, goat cheese, Texas Black Garlic Vinaigrette or Gulf Shrimp bisque with grilled toast and chive cream. 2nd Course – Choice of Marinated Redfish with charred broccolini, avocado mousse and kale chips, Smoked grilled ribeye with crispy potatoes and horseradish cream, or Braised cauliflower with fennel-spiced corn crumble and chili butter. 3rd Course – Choice of chocolate cake with caramel mousse, and almond sesame brittle or lime cheesecake with coconut graham cracker crust.

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Valentine’s Day Sweets & Flowers for pre-order at Bakery Lorraine
All San Antonio locations
Pastries available from Saturday February 11 to Tuesday February 14
Pre-order Flowers by Emma Lily Flowers from Wednesday January 25 to Friday February 10

For foodies looking forward to delectable Valentine’s sweets, Bakery Lorraine has pastries exclusive to the Valentine’s Day holiday at all of their San Antonio locations from Saturday, February 11 to Tuesday, February 14. The sweets include Chocolate Raspberry Tart, Grapefruit Tiramisu, Heart Moonpie, Raspberry Rose Japonaise, Strawberry Pop Heart, and Fraisier. In addition to their themed desserts, Bakery Lorraine is also partnering with Flowers by Emma Lily Flowers for guests to pre-order a set of 12pk of macarons with a bouquet for only $70 or a flower box including six macarons for only $40. Macaron flavors include raspberry, pistachio, chocolate, and strawberry rose. Preorders are available from Wednesday, January 25 until Noon on Friday, February 10, and can be ordered on the Bakery Lorraine website. Pickup for pre-orders will be on Tuesday, February 14 at the chosen location.

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Valentine’s Day Silver Trunk Show at the San Antonio Museum of Art
200 West Jones Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78215
Saturday, February 11, 2023 from 10a.m. to 2p.m.

Couples shopping for a unique gift and stunning for their Valentine can head to the shop at the San Antonio Museum of Art on February, 11, 2023 from 10a.m. to 2p.m. where the latest in silver jewelry from Sarah Roberts, Micha Gonzalez, Moose Pablos, and Spratling are waiting to be discovered. The gorgeous works will be available for purchase and will make the perfect addition to any Valentine’s day surprise.

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In celebration of Valentine’s Day, iFLY Indoor Skydiving is spreading the love by offering a special “Love Is in the Air” package for first-time flyers that will include four flights and two videos shared by two people. This package is a perfect idea for adventurous couples, friends, and families seeking a thrill this Valentine’s Day. Whether it is for a unique Valentine’s Day date night or a one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day celebration, iFLY brings loved ones together for an unforgettable experience.

The exclusive package will be available for purchase online from February 2 through February 19. Flights must be purchased, booked and used at a participating U.S. iFLY Indoor Skydiving location within the promotional timeframe (2/2/23 – 2/19/23) for flights to be redeemable. Prices vary per iFLY location.

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The award-winning Texas day spa Hiatus Spa + Retreat has Valentine’s Day packages available.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)
Send your sweetheart off on a “choose your own spa adventure” only to return more rejuvenated and relaxed than ever before. They’ll get to pick any 3 of our Essential Services — The Signature Massage, The Tailor-Made Facial, The One & Only Mani/Pedi, The Body Wrap, The Body Glow,* or Acupuncture.*
$299 ($350 value) *available only at specific Hiatus spa locations

The Love Birds (EarlyBird CBD Partnership)
Begin with a crushed rose petal and organic sugar foot soak, heartwarming hot stone shoulder massage then relax side-by-side in a couples massage with our house-blended love potion of rose, jasmine, vetiver and coco butter. Then take flight with EarlyBird Full Spectrum CBD Gummies and float through the rest of your day feeling chill and relaxed.
($350 / $279 H-Circle Member)

Cupids Bow
1 Syringe of Restylane Kysse, Dysport Lip Flip (10 units), $686 / $617 H-Circle ($795 value)

In addition to Valentine’s day packages, Hiatus will also be offering a couple of gift card deals in the upcoming months.

Galentine’s Gift Card Sale
Available: February 13 & 14
Offer: Buy $75 for only $50

Valentine’s Gift Card Sale
Available: January 13 – February 15
Offer: Buy $250 for only $199

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend

The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa’s Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend will take place on February 10 – 12. Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

Join The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa for their Annual Lonestar Lover’s Weekend on February 10 -12. On Saturday, February 11, The LCR Culinary Team will be offering an exquisite 5-course romantic dinner for two in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Extend the celebration with your sweetheart by booking for the weekend in one of the luxury cabins or spacious guest room accommodations. To further enhance your stay for you and your special someone, take advantage of the wide assortment of activities and spa services available. Our guest service team will be happy to assist you in planning the ultimate Lonestar Lover’s Weekend experience. (The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2023)

That special day is quickly approaching, so make sure and plan ahead. Make your reservations now to ensure you are ready to celebrate your love in luxury with The JL Bar team. To make reservations for the Lonestar Lover’s Dinner for Two or schedule activities for your weekend, email guest services or call (855) 414-3337. Seating options: 6p.m. and 8p.m. – $150 per couple. Dining menu available online.

Photo: The JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Taco Cabana launches new 5 under $5 menu options

Taco Cabana celebrates 2023 with all new 5 under $5 menu options. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Launching Wednesday, January 11, 2023, Taco Cabana invites guests to kick off 2023 with its all-new, 5 under $5 menu offerings. Guests can choose one of five options including Bean and Cheese Nachos for $4.59, a Cheese Enchilada Bowl for $4.99, a three-pack of Chicken Flautas for $4.99 , a Taco Duo starting at $4.49 with tasty fillings like shredded chicken, ground beef and chicken fajita, or the recently launched Double Crunch Pizza for $4.99. (Taco Cabana, 2023)

The Double Crunch Pizza is TC’s latest menu innovation, crafted with two crispy tortillas blended with corn and flour, layered with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, chipotle ranch dressing, Monterey Jack & cheddar cheese, topped with pico de gallo, shredded cheese and drizzled with sour cream. TC’s 5 under $5 offerings will be available at all TC Texas locations. 

Just in time for the Lenten Season, Taco Cabana’s delicious Shrimp Tampico Quesadillas and Shrimp Tampico Tacos return February 22, 2023 for a limited time. Both Shrimp Tampico Quesadillas and Shrimp Tampico Tacos will be served with TC’s uniquely satisfying Pineapple Chipotle Salsa. 

“Taco Cabana has long been known to deliver value across the entire TC menu. In today’s environment, we recognize that many of our guests are specifically seeking menu items at a greater value, and we wanted to prominently feature a select number of current TC items under $5, as well as offer new culinary options under $5 like the enchilada bowl and the newly launched, hugely popular Double Crunch Pizza (DCP). We also look forward to bringing back a TC classic favorite, Shrimp Tampico, in February.” – Ulyses Camacho, Taco Cabana’s Chief Operating Officer

Taco Cabana’s 5 under $5 menu options and Lenten Season offerings are available 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 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 $3 tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up, delivery and catering. As of January 5, 2023, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa offers family friendly Thanksgiving activities

JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa offers Thanksgiving events for a family friendly holiday, West Texas Style. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

The scenic JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa has some Thanksgiving getaway programs coming up. The family owned and operated, 13,000-acre Texas Hill Country retreat invites families and loved ones to give thanks with outdoor experiences, world-class Texas BBQ, and the chance to make long-lasting memories. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2022)

Their programming and offers are as follows:

  • A Hill Country Thanksgiving Feast: On Thanksgiving (November 24), the JL Bar Ranch will host a family-style dinner featuring traditional Texas ranch favorites with sophisticated flair. Resort guests and locals alike can select from three separate seatings at 11a.m., 1p.m. and 4:30p.m. for their Thanksgiving feast, featuring a Chef-attended carving station with smoked turkey, sage butter basted roast turkey, and rosemary and garlic sirloin;  crowd-pleasing and decadent buffet featuring over a dozen sides like bourbon orange glazed ham, sweet potato casserole with pecan crumble, roasted butternut squash and brussels sprouts with applewood smoked bacon; an assortment of festive holiday desserts; and more. Price: $59.95 (guest rate); $79.95 (non-resort guest); half-off for kids 12 and under.
  • Outdoor Adventure: Embrace the crisp November weather with the resort’s robust outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding to 3D archery. 
  • Laid-Back R&R: Book a seasonal spa treatment at The Spa at JL Bar for the ultimate relaxation during the holiday. Fall spa specials include an Appe Body Scrub, Autumn Massage, Harvest Facial, and Fall Foliage Mani-Pedi.  
  • A Multi-Gen Villa Escape: The stunning Archer’s Nest Villa is an ultra-private retreat within the Ranch: this beautiful ranch home has 7 bedrooms & 6 bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a swimming pool with a slide, an outdoor kitchen & BBQ pavilion, home theater and more (private chef and butler options are available). 
  • Take Care of Holiday Shopping Early: Stop by JL Bar Ranch’s General Store to tackle holiday shopping before the seasonal rush, with JL Bar coolers, apparel, hunting gear, and more.

Family Meal Benefit dinner in El Paso to benefit El Pasoans Fighting Hunger

El Paso native chefs return home for an evening of cooking and camaraderie, all for a good cause. Photo: Google

On Sunday, November 13, ten chefs will return home to El Paso to host “Family Meal,” a special collaborative benefit dinner. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, a group actively procuring and distributing food to combat the hunger crisis in the region.

“El Pasoans Fighting Hunger (EPFH) is El Paso’s only food bank and a member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief network. The Food Bank is the distribution center for over 132 partner pantries across the borderland region and collaborative hub for hunger initiatives that assists in SNAP applications and nutrition education. EPFH also distributes healthy and nutritious food to 235 client choice mobile pantries, which provide food to underserved/unserved communities. We currently serve 200,000 food insecure people with 1 in every 3 children and 1 in every 4 adults unsure of where their next meal will come from.” -EPFH

The evening is designed to expose local and expat talent—chefs, artists, and musicians—while bringing El Paso natives together for an evening of cooking and camaraderie, all supporting a good cause. The event will be held at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing (1 Ardovinos Dr, Sunland Park, NM 88063), and tickets are available at elpasofamilymeal.com. Tickets for Family Meal are $250 per person and will include six courses in a family-style setting along with passed appetizers, wine pairings, coffee, and a chef demo.

“Family Meal is an important part of the day for restaurants. It is a way to bond with your family away from home. This benefit dinner, in turn, is meant to transform that experience and help our extended (local and migrant) families as well as bring to light the vast amount of talent and generosity this city has to offer. El Paso is one part of a large international and bi-national metropolis encompassing Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and Las Cruces, New Mexico. What affects one family affects us all.” – Mixtli Chef Rico Torres

Confirmed chefs include:
Rico Torres, Founder, Food and Wine Best New Chef 2018, James Beard Best Chef Semi-Finalist 2019, Best Restaurant 2022, Mixtli (San Antonio, TX)
Andre Natera, Author and Podcast Host, Chef’s PSA (Austin, TX)
Alan Delgado, Star Chefs Rising Star 2020, (New York, NY)
Gabe Erales, Top Chef-18 Winner, Bacalar, (Austin, TX)
Jaime Daniel Calleros, Executive Chef, Ardovino’s Desert Crossing (Sunland Park, NM)
Jake Rojas, Tallulah’s Taqueria (Providence, RI)
Omar Flores, James Beard Semi-Finalist Best New Restaurant 2013, Best Chef Southwest 2015, 2016, Whistle Britches and Muchacho (Dallas, TX)
Melissa Valenzuela, Mixtli, (San Antonio, TX)
Andres Padilla, Chicago Tribune’s Dining Out Award 2015, Opening Executive Chef at Plaza Hotel/Ambar 2020, Culinary Director of Cruz Blanca (Chicago, IL)
Emiliano Marentes, James Beard Outstanding Chef Semi-Finalist 2022, El Emi, (El Paso, TX)

The Native El Paso chefs will return for a weekend of camaraderie and cooking under the scenic landscapes at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing, which features views of all three cities. The evening will include live-fire cooking, wine, specialty cocktails, live music, plus a special Chef Demo from Top Chef-18 Winner, Gabe Erales. The event will also feature a live auction, farewell coffee service, and a photo opportunity with the talent.

November events at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk will be having their next Cosmic Night at The Moon’s Daughters on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is having two big events in November. The next Cosmic Night at The Moon’s Daughters will take place on Tuesday November 8 and a special multi-course meal so guests can watch the Ford Holiday River Parade along the Riverwalk on Friday November 25, 2022. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2022)

Cosmic Night at The Moon’s Daughters, which takes place whenever a full moon lands each month, will return on Tuesday, November 8 for November’s Beaver Moon. The second full moon of fall was named the Beaver Moon by Native American tribes because of how active beavers are in mid-fall as they prepare for winter. Hotel guests and the public can enjoy live music, insight from a tarot card reader, and a specialty cocktail paired with a cosmic coaster. The cosmic coaster adds a flair of entertainment where guests will have the chance to scan a QR code, receive a prompt to think of questions, followed by unique insights, and conclude with a positive affirmation. The Moon’s Daughters is the best way to experience the full moon overlooking San Antonio’s skyline.

The 41st annual Ford Holiday River Parade returns on Friday, November 25, kicking off the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving with performers, live music, and decorated parade floats that light up the city. The hotel’s signature restaurant Landrace from James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh will feature a special multi-course menu that evening and a reserved seat to the parade along the illuminated Riverwalk. The first course will feature Roasted Squash Soup and for the second course, choose from Slow Cooked Prime Rib or Pan Seared Trout. Lastly, top the meal off with a Warm Apple Crumble accompanied by Dulce De Leche Ice Cream. Tickets are available online. 

Taco Cabana launches new limited-time menu

Taco Cabana’s limited-time menu includes spicy pork flautas, Oreo churros, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and the Catering Holiday Party Pack. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Starting Wednesday November 9, 2022, Taco Cabana delivers for the holiday season with the launch of three new menu items, including the all-new Spicy Pork Flautas, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and Oreo® churros. TC continues its tradition of culinary innovation, building on its popular flauta repertoire, with the launch of its tantalizing Spicy Pork Flautas made with Guajillo peppers in a three-pack with one dipping sauce or a six-pack with two dipping sauces. TC’s signature queso, sour cream and/or fresh guacamole are the perfect complement for these flautas with a little kick. (Taco Cabana, 2022)

A returning brand favorite, TC’s beloved Chicken Tortilla Soup will soon be available in a small serving for $4.49 or a large serving for $6.29. 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, this warm soup is the perfect seasonal snack no matter the temperature. 

Another perfect addition for the holiday season, TC is proud to announce the co-branding launch of the all-new Oreo® churros, which can be coupled with any order in a pack of five for just $2.99. The churros pack all the craveability of an Oreo® cookie in five bite-size pieces. TC’s Spicy Pork Flautas, Chicken Tortilla Soup, and Oreo® churros are available for a limited time while supplies last.

Taco Cabana invites guests to celebrate the upcoming holiday season with its Catering Holiday Party Pack and holiday gift cards. Ideal for any celebration, the Catering Holiday Party Pack feeds up to 10 and includes the choice of steak fajita, chicken fajita, or mixed fajita, and is served with Mexican rice, black or refried beans, shredded cheese, guacamole, salsa roja, Pico de Gallo, sour cream, and lettuce. Available for just $139.99, the Catering Holiday Party Pack also includes chips and queso, 10 churros, one gallon of tea and 20 tortillas, making it the ultimate package for any event. 

TC gift cards make an easy holiday gift enjoyed by all ages. Now through Saturday, December 31, 2022, for every $25 spent toward Taco Cabana gift cards, guests will receive a complimentary $5 Holiday Guest Appreciation Card; e-gift cards are also available for purchase. TC gift cards in the amount of 10 or less can be ordered online and in-bulk for large quantities of more than 11 gift cards. The Holiday Guest Appreciation Cards can be redeemed at any Texas TC location beginning two hours after purchase/activation and will remain active until March 31, 2023. 

For TC fans looking for a classic selection of menu items to enjoy with family and friends for the holiday season, Taco Cabana’s delicious Enchilada Plates are available with cheese, shredded chicken or ground beef and a choice of sauce including Tex-Mex, Green Sauce or Queso. TC’s first-ever Hatch Chile Smoked Pulled Pork menu options also remain available, including 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 tortilla strips and Hatch Chile Ranch for $8.59. 

Guests 21 years of age or older can enjoy TC’s seasonal Hatch Chile Margarita for $4 alongside Taco Cabana’s 12 permanent Margarita Headquarters options available for $3 each all-day, every day.

All 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 online. Guests can place an order for the Holiday Party Pack by calling 855-4MY-TACO or 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 October 24, 2022, Taco Cabana operates 144 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

 

 

Austin Food & Wine Festival

The Austin Food & Wine Festival will take place November 4 – 6. Photo: Austin Food & Wine Festival, used with permission.

Tickets are still available for the eleventh annual Austin Food & Wine Festival which will take place November 4-6, 2022 at Auditorium Shores. Presented by FOOD & WINE Magazine and C3 Presents, the Austin Food & Wine Festival is one of Texas’ most beloved food festivals. The three-day celebration of food, wine and spirits will welcome top tier talent from all over the country. (Austin Food & Wine Festival, 2022)

The festival will feature chefs, restaurants and wine and spirits experts over three days at Auditorium Shores. Festival highlights include the new Wurst Weekend Kickoff event; the fan-favorite Rock Your Taco competition; the Fire Pit featuring bites hot off the flames; engaging cooking demonstrations + conversations; samples of signature dishes from local chefs and restaurants; dynamic wine, beer & cocktail tastings; live music, and more.

Showcasing a dynamic roster of local, regional and national chefs throughout the weekend, attendees can sample signature dishes from top chefs around the country. 

WURST WEEKEND KICK-OFF

Join Chef Tim Love and Jesse Herman to kick-off the weekend at Auditorium Shores on Friday evening. Enjoy a Bavarian-themed menu of sausage, brats, pork, and more cooked over a live fire. Featuring regional wines and beers, the best (wurst) way to kick off the weekend. 

ROCK YOUR TACO

Rock Your Taco, Saturday evening’s signature tasting event, will take place this year at Auditorium Shores. Chefs will square off against one another to create the ultimate taco, as deemed by a People’s Choice award. Rock Your Taco competitors include Shion Aikawa; Nicola Blaque; Jo Chan; Tiffany Derry; Ford Fry; Sarah Grueneberg; Sarah Heard and Nathan Lemley; CJ Jacobson; Steve McHugh; Shota Nakajima; Laura Sawicki, and Brooke Williamson.

CHEF DEMOS

Festival attendees keen on learning from the pros can listen in as a host of chefs, including Jo Chan; Tiffany Derry; Kevin Fink; Ford Fry; Diego Galicia and Rico Torres; Sarah Grueneberg; and Fermín Núñez.

FIRE PIT

The Fire Pit portion of the festival features bites hot off the flames and the chance to interact with pit masters and chefs cooking over live fire. Enjoy exceptional BBQ and other dishes cooked over open flame and get first-hand advice from the pros. Featured chefs this year include Sonya Coté; Jason Dady; Jorge Luis Hernandez; Andy Knudson; Jesse Kuykendall; Shota Nakajima, and Kristina Zhoa.

Tickets are available online.  All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

The Austin Food & Wine Festival is the benefactor of the Texas Food & Wine Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to fostering awareness and innovation in the Central Texas food and wine community through grants, educational programming and events. To date, Austin Food & Wine Festival has contributed over $1.3 million to the Alliance.

The Austin Food + Wine Festival marks a compelling collaboration between C3 Presents and some of Texas’ most exciting chefs and restaurateurs, including Tim Love and Restaurateur Jesse Herman. C3 Presents is the Austin-based event company that produces Lollapalooza in Chicago’s Grant Park, and Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin’s Zilker Park. The Austin Food + Wine Festival will take place this fall,, bringing an array of taste, talent and culinary entertainment to the Capital City.