Esencia announces Lunar New Year celebration on February 24. Photo: Clint Walker, Charlie Walker Creative, used with permission.
Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse at Esencia
A Lunar New Year Celebration at The St. Anthony
The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, invites guests to an elevated culinary journey to celebrate the Lunar New Year at the newly opened restaurant, Esencia. The evening will blend tradition, prosperity, and community through the artistry of James Beard–nominated Chef Leo Davila. (St. Anthony, 2026)
Experience a thoughtfully curated, family-style dinner designed to honor the heritage of the Year of the Fire Horse.
The Evening’s Highlights
The festivities kick off with a lively cocktail hour followed by a traditional Lion Dance, a symbol of power and wisdom, before settling in for a multi-course feast.
Prosperity Crudo Platter: Smoked seafood, citrus ponzu, and house pickles.
Char Siu–Style Pork Belly: Served with leafy lettuce and a savory glaze.
Longevity Noodles: A unique blend of Texas Chinese BBQ and house chorizo.
Peking-Style Duck Breast: Accompanied by plum sauce and soft bao buns.
Golden Veggie Fried Rice: Topped with crispy garlic and sesame.
Event Schedule & Location
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Location: Esencia at The St. Anthony | 300 E Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Schedule
5:30 – 6:30 PM | Cocktail Hour (Beverages available for purchase, with optional wine, cocktail, and sake packages)
6:30 – 7:00 PM | Traditional Lion Dance Performance
7:00 – 8:30 PM | Multi-Course Family-Style Dinner
Ticket Options
Choose the experience that best suits your evening. Please note that prices are subject to taxes and fees (++) and can be purchased via Eventbrite.
General Admission | $85++
Reserved seating for the evening’s festivities.
Discounted valet parking ($10).
The VIP Experience | $150++
Preferred seating for the dinner and performance.
Two complimentary cocktails during the cocktail hour.
Complimentary valet parking.
Reserve Your Table: Tickets are available now. Don’t miss this one-night-only celebration of unity and good fortune!
Corinne at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is a local spot offering drink specials this week. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
With National Drink Wine Day (Wednesday, February 18) and National Margarita Day (Sunday, February 22) just around the corner, San Antonio’s top restaurants and hotels are rolling out festive, limited-time offerings. From iconic margaritas to curated wine specials and tequila tastings, these spots are serving up plenty of reasons to raise a glass.
Here’s where to celebrate in San Antonio and surrounding cities:
🍹 The Gunter Margarita at The Gunter Hotel
Available Sunday, February 22 Locations: Keystone Club, Bar 414, and Jots 📍 205 E Houston St., San Antonio, TX 78205
The historic The Gunter Hotelis debuting a limited-time cocktail for National Margarita Day: The Gunter Margarita. Crafted with Combier liqueur, Altos tequila, agave, and fresh lime juice, this $13 cocktail is available throughout the hotel, including the lobby bar, Keystone Club, speakeasy Bar 414, and restaurant Jots.
National Drink Wine Day Wednesday, February 18 | 11 AM – 11 PM 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
At Dean’s Steak & Seafood, guests can enjoy ½ off select wine bottles all day long. Available in both the bar and dining room, it’s the perfect excuse to uncork a favorite midweek, whether paired with a classic steak or enjoyed in the restaurant’s cozy Riverwalk atmosphere.
🌆 Mile High Margarita Flights at Tenfold Rooftop
National Margarita Day Sunday, February 22 | All Day 📍 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Celebrate above the skyline at Tenfold Rooftop with their Mile High Margarita Flights.
Offerings include:
$16 Frozen Margaritas
$16 Rocks Margaritas
$22 Mile High Flight (four 4 oz. signature margaritas)
It’s a one-day-only tasting experience designed for sharing or sipping solo while taking in sweeping city views.
Corinne is also serving up the $5 La Villita Margarita, a bright and refreshing cocktail finished with a subtle mezcal mist, a perfect way to toast the occasion.
House Muck-a-Rita – $4.95 Made with Cazadores Reposado and served on the rocks with a choice of salt, sugar, or tajín
House Frozen Muck-a-Rita – $6.95 The same classic flavor in a blended, ice-cold format
It’s a refreshing way to celebrate just outside San Antonio.
Whether you’re toasting with a bold red, savoring a classic margarita on the rocks, or sampling a flight with skyline views, San Antonio is ready to celebrate in style. Cheers to a week filled with good pours and even better company. 🍷🍹
Castle Hill’s Clementine has a wine tasting event this Saturday. Photo: Clementine, used with permission.
Things to Do This Week in San Antonio and New Braunfels (January 2026)
Looking for things to do in San Antonio this week or events in New Braunfels? From a wine tasting at a James Beard–nominated restaurant to family-friendly outdoor movie nights, here are two must-visit local events happening this week.
🍷Wine Tasting Event in San Antonio: Clementine’s Quarterly Wine Tasting
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026 Time: 1:00–3:00 p.m. Location: Castle Hills, San Antonio
Clementine, a beloved San Antonio neighborhood restaurant, is hosting its quarterly Wine Tasting event to close out the month of January. Guests can sample a curated selection of wines while learning about each pour, paired with small bites of cheese to elevate the tasting experience. (Clementine, 2026)
Event Details:
Admission:
Free for Juice Box Members
$15 per person for non-members
Early Access:
Juice Box Members receive exclusive early entry at 12:30 p.m.
Seating: Limited availability; early arrival is recommended
Guests interested in exclusive dining perks can explore Clementine’s Table22 Juice Box Subscription, the restaurant’s annual membership program.
Address: Clementine 2195 Northwest Military Highway Castle Hills, TX 78213
About Clementine Restaurant
Clementine is a family-owned San Antonio restaurant known for seasonal, innovative cuisine served in a vibrant, modern atmosphere. The restaurant is led by Chef John Russ, a 2023 James Beard Award Nominee for Best Chef: Texas, alongside Pastry Chef Elise Russ. The menu features globally inspired small plates, shareable platters, produce-forward sideboard options, and imaginative desserts.
🎬Family-Friendly Events in New Braunfels: Tuesday Movie Nights at Muck & Fuss
When: Every Tuesday Time: Starts at 5:45 p.m. Where: Downtown New Braunfels
Muck & Fuss, a popular New Braunfels restaurant, continues its weekly outdoor movie night series in the Biergarten. This community favorite combines classic films, comfort food, and craft cocktails in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. (Muck & Fuss, 2026)
What to Expect:
Outdoor movies under the stars
Complimentary popcorn and hot chocolate 🍿 ☕
Savory food and craft cocktails
Guests encouraged to dress to match each movie’s theme
Kids’ Meals: Special kids’ meals are available for $6.95, making this one of the best family-friendly things to do in New Braunfels.
Upcoming Movie Schedule:
School of Rock — Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Nacho Libre — Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Address: Muck & Fuss 295 E. San Antonio St. New Braunfels, TX 78130
About Muck & Fuss
Muck & Fuss is a locally owned downtown New Braunfels restaurant offering chef-inspired burgers, inventive comfort food, and a carefully curated craft beer program with 38 rotating draft beers. The venue features live music and a lively Biergarten atmosphere.
Owners Terry and Celina Muckenfuss are dedicated to revitalizing downtown New Braunfels and also operate the restored historic Prince Solms Inn and Sidecar, an elevated speakeasy-style cocktail bar.
Ambler at Hotel Contessa celebrates Dry January with mocktail week (1/11-17) featuring custom non-alcoholic cocktails & IPAs. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.
National Mocktail Week 2026: Sip Smarter in San Antonio
National Mocktail Week takes place January 11–17, 2026, celebrating the second week of January with creative, alcohol-free beverages. The week highlights healthier choices, mindful drinking, and the growing community around non-alcoholic drinks made with fresh ingredients and thoughtful craftsmanship.
Whether you’re participating in Dry January or simply looking to cut back after the holidays, this week is the perfect opportunity to explore elevated non-alcoholic options without sacrificing flavor or experience.
Celebrate National Mocktail Week at Hotel Contessa
If you’re in San Antonio, Hotel Contessa is the place to be. The hotel’s riverfront restaurant, Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails, is celebrating National Mocktail Week with a curated selection of Ritual zero-proof mocktails and Athletic Brewing non-alcoholic beers. (Hotel Contessa, 2026)
Tai Breaker – Ritual rum, lime juice, orange juice, orgeat
🍺 Non-Alcoholic Beer ($6)
Run Wild IPA – Athletic Brewing
Free Wave IPA – Athletic Brewing
About Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails
Located inside Hotel Contessa, Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails is a top-rated River Walk restaurant and bar, ideal for lunch, dinner, coffee, or a crafted cocktail, alcohol-free or otherwise. Known for its bold personality, Ambler blends Southwestern-Mexican flavors with international influences. Expect inventive dishes like elevated Reuben sandwiches and fried pecan sticky buns. Texan at heart, but anything but traditional.
Visit Ambler at Hotel Contessa
Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails 306 W. Market St San Antonio, TX 78205 📞 (210) 298-8040
San Antonio crêperie expands to Cibolo with grand opening celebration. Photo: Crepeccino.
Crepeccino Expands: Grand Opening in Cibolo, Texas 🎉
Crepeccino, the beloved San Antonio café and crêperie known for its handcrafted sweet and savory crêpes, specialty coffee, and artisan drinks, is opening its second location in Cibolo, Texas! (Crepeccino, 2025)
📍 Address: 857 Cibolo Valley Drive, Suite 208 📅 Opening Day: Saturday, September 13, 2025
The community is invited to a two-day grand opening celebration filled with giveaways, exclusive offers, and family-friendly fun.
Grand Opening Weekend Schedule
Saturday, September 13
🎀 Ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by the official opening at 10 a.m.
🍓 First 50 guests in line receive a free sweet crêpe
☕ 20% off menu items until 3 p.m.
🎟️ Raffle all day for guests who RSVP via Eventbrite and make a purchase in-store
Sunday, September 14
⏰ Open from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
🎟️ Raffle continues all day
Special Giveaway 🎁
Guests who RSVP on Eventbriteand make a purchase during the grand opening weekend will be entered to win one of three prizes:
🥇 $500 Crepeccino Gift Card
🥈 $300 Crepeccino Gift Card
🥉 $100 Crepeccino Gift Card
A Word from the Owner
“San Antonio has embraced Crepeccino in such a special way, and we’re thrilled to bring that same experience to Cibolo. Our new location is about creating a space where neighbors, families, and friends can gather over fresh crêpes & great coffee.” — Bara Ekhlayel, Owner of Crepeccino
About Crepeccino
Founded in 2018 in Leon Valley, Crepeccino has quickly become a local favorite for brunch classics—coffee, crêpes, and waffles—while also offering savory dinner entrées, sandwiches, and indulgent gelato milkshakes. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, Creppecino is the perfect spot to gather and enjoy handcrafted flavors any time of day.
👉 RSVP now on Eventbrite and join the celebration in Cibolo!
End summer with a splash at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo: InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, used with permission.
Savor the End of Summer in San Antonio: Pool Parties & Taco Openings
As summer winds down, San Antonio is closing the season with food, music, and sunshine. From a rooftop pool party to the grand opening of a beloved Mexican taco spot, here’s what’s happening this weekend:
🌞 Splash & Savor Pool Party at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk
There’s no better way to wrap up summer than with a dip at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk’s Splash and Savor Pool Party on Saturday, September 6. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)
Guests can soak up the sun, enjoy savory bites, and take in rooftop views before the summer heat fades.
Event highlights include:
Exclusive rooftop pool access
Three chef-crafted tacos (chicken or beef)
One complimentary adult beverage (beer, wine, or margarita on tap)
Raffle entry for brunch for two at Cavalier, the hotel’s signature American Brasserie
DJ Tone spinning live from Noon to 5p.m.
🎟️ Tickets are $50 per person and are available now through OpenTable.Space is limited!
🌮 Tacos On The Street: Now Open in San Antonio
San Antonio food lovers have another reason to celebrate! Tacos On The Street, the beloved Mexican eatery famous for its street-style carne asada, has officially opened its first U.S. location today, September 4, 2025. (Tacos On The Street, 2025)
The restaurant keeps it simple but delicious with a menu featuring:
Tacos
Tostadas
Quesadillas
Each dish is made with thinly shaved, high-quality beef, grilled over blazing charcoal, and finished with a rich beef glaze for bold flavor and crispy edges.
Opening Day Special: To celebrate 32 years in business, Tacos On The Street is offering its combo meal (3 carne asada tacos + Jarritos) — normally $15.50 — for just $3.20 today only, dine-in only.
📍 Find them at: 22026 US Highway 281 N, Suite #101 San Antonio, TX 78259
Photo: Tacos On The Street, used with permission
✨ Whether you’re sipping margaritas poolside or biting into authentic carne asada tacos, San Antonio has plenty to savor this week.
Artist interior rendering of Tacos On The Street, coming soon to San Antonio. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Tacos On The Street Brings Puerto Vallarta Flavor to San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO, TX – Beloved Mexican eatery Tacos On The Street, known for its authentic street-style carne asada, is making its U.S. debut this August with a new flagship location on the northeast side of San Antonio. The restaurant will open at 22026 US Highway 281 N, Suite #101, with an official opening date to be announced soon. (Tacos On The Street, 2025)
Founded as a humble taco stand in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico in 1993, Tacos On The Street has grown into a cherished culinary destination with one guiding principle: do one thing, and do it exceptionally well—carne asada. Now, it’s bringing its bold flavors and rich cultural heritage north to the Alamo City, where it will also establish its U.S. headquarters.
“San Antonio felt like the natural place to begin our growth in the U.S.,” said Director of Marketing Natalia Bustamante. “It’s a city that lives and breathes flavor, family, and culture—and that’s exactly what defines us. This opening isn’t just a launch; it’s the beginning of a much bigger journey—with this city at the heart of it all.”
A Menu Rooted in Tradition
Every dish at Tacos On The Street—from mouth-watering tacos and cheesy quesadillas to crispy tostadas—is made using time-tested recipes passed down since day one. Guests can also enjoy refreshing margaritas, the signature Jamaica Mezcalita, and curated desserts featuring Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, making its San Antonio debut.
A Space That Tells a Story
The restaurant’s interior is a tribute to both its Mexican origins and its new San Antonio home. Designed by acclaimed creative Joel Mozersky (of Pullman Market and Mon Chou Chou), the space includes handcrafted ceramic elements from Guadalajara’s Cerámica Suro, a studio known for its collaborations with restaurants like Noma, Central, and Eleven Madison Park.
A custom mural by Don Mos, a muralist from Irapuato, fuses contemporary iconography with traditional Mexican symbolism. Under the creative direction of Guillermo Flores Pacheco of Orbeh Studio, the mural celebrates the shared spirit of Puerto Vallarta and San Antonio.
Thoughtful Partnerships, Soulful Service
Tacos On The Street has teamed up with like-minded brands including Jarritos, Twang, and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to enhance the dining experience. The restaurant’s fast-casual model delivers warmth and hospitality rooted in Mexican tradition, paired with the efficiency and ease of Texan-American service.
Tacos On The Street will be open daily, with full hours and an exact opening date to be announced soon. This San Antonio flagship is just the beginning of a broader expansion—one that honors place, partnership, and purpose. Additional U.S. locations are in the works, with more details to follow.
La Panadería kicks off summer with new cold foam drinks and ‘Summer of Concha’ campaign. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
Summer Sips and Sweet Treats: La Panadería Launches New Seasonal Menu and Expands to Stone Oak
San Antonio, TX – La Panadería, the beloved San Antonio bakery renowned for its artisanal pan dulce and French-inspired Mexican bread, is thrilled to unveil its new lineup of Summer Drinks, along with the return of its fan-favorite seasonal conchas as part of the annual Summer of Concha initiative.
These limited-time offerings are available now through August 31, 2025, at all La Panadería locations.
☀️ Sip into Summer
La Panadería’s refreshed beverage program brings a cool and creative twist to summer sipping, featuring iced drinks made with house-crafted syrups and indulgent cold foam toppings.
This summer’s drink lineup includes:
Lavender Latte A floral iced latte sweetened with La Panadería’s signature lavender syrup, topped with a smooth lavender-infused cold foam.
Tres Leches Matcha A layered iced matcha latte with strawberry purée, topped with strawberry tres leches cold foam—blending the creamy essence of tres leches cake with earthy premium matcha.
Strawberry Mimosa A bright, bubbly take on the brunch classic—featuring champagne, strawberry purée, and a splash of orange juice. This is La Panadería’s first-ever mimosa flavor beyond the traditional orange.
🍞 Summer of Concha Returns
Back by popular demand, La Panadería’s Summer of Concha celebrates bold flavors and nostalgic indulgence with a lineup of creatively reimagined conchas—Mexico’s iconic sweet bread.
Limited-edition concha flavors include:
Dubai Chocolate Concha Inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar, this dual-toned concha features a green and chocolate crust, filled with luscious pistachio ganache and Nutella.
Ferrero Rocher Concha A decadent red-and-chocolate shell filled with rich chocolate ganache and hazelnut praline cream—a nod to the beloved Ferrero Rocher.
Nutella Concha An orange-shelled treat filled with creamy Nutella, first introduced as a March Madness special.
Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
🍽️ New Location Coming to Stone Oak
La Panadería is also excited to announce the opening of its largest location yet, debuting in Stone Oak in late Fall 2025. The new 6,600-square-foot restaurant at 1011 N. Loop 1604 E will feature:
The full La Panadería menu
A cocktail bar
A covered outdoor patio
100 dedicated parking spaces
“We’ve always believed in growing thoughtfully and with our guests in mind. Stone Oak is a vibrant and growing area, and we’re excited to bring La Panadería to a new part of the city.” — José Cáceres, Co-owner
About La Panadería
Founded in 2013 by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería began as a humble stand at the Quarry Farmers Market and quickly grew into a local institution. Since opening its first brick-and-mortar in 2014, the bakery has become a staple of San Antonio’s culinary landscape—celebrated for its commitment to quality ingredients, artisanal techniques, and heartfelt Mexican-European fusion.
From handcrafted pan dulce to savory tortas and brunch favorites, La Panadería continues to serve a one-of-a-kind dining experience that captures the culture, flavor, and warmth of San Antonio.
Visit La Panadería today to enjoy the Summer of Concha and cool off with their vibrant new drink selections—before the season ends!
📅 Available through August 31, 2025 📍 Multiple locations across San Antonio
Goode Company’s Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is available for a limited time. Photo: Goode Company, used with permission.
Celebrate Father’s Day in San Antonio: Food, Fun & Unforgettable Gifts
Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in June, honors fathers and father figures across the United States. It’s a day to express gratitude through cards, gifts, and quality time. Families often gather for barbecues, outings, or special meals. Children may craft homemade presents or share heartfelt messages. Communities also host local events leading up to the day. While traditions vary, the spirit remains the same—celebrating the love, support, and guidance dads provide.
In San Antonio, businesses are making it easier than ever to honor dads with indulgent food, thoughtful gifts, and some much-needed relaxation. From bourbon pies to Wagyu burgers and spa treatments, here’s a roundup of top Father’s Day offerings around the city. (Goode Company Online Shop, La Panaderia, Bakery Lorraine, Corinne San Antonio, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Twang, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2025)
Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is back for a limited time! Infused with Milam & Greene bourbon and crafted with Texas-grown pecans and rich chocolate, this 9-inch pie serves 10 and costs $60. Available for nationwide shipping.
The Alamo Burger is a must-try! Featuring 8 oz. Wagyu beef, Swiss cheese, organic greens, and pickled jalapeños on a spiral croissant—best enjoyed with a cold craft beer.
June 13–15: Enjoy an Old Fashioned made with Elijah Craig Private Barrel Bourbon paired with a fine cigar—perfect for the dad who appreciates luxury and flavor.
Anaqua Garden Bar is having $8 margaritas all day on Cinco de Mayo. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in San Antonio with Local Flavor and Festive Deals
Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, commemorates Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Though it’s a minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture in the United States. People mark the occasion with festive parades, mariachi music, folkloric dancing, and traditional foods like tacos and mole poblano. Cities like San Antonio host street fairs and cultural events, drawing crowds eager to experience the lively atmosphere. Cinco de Mayo appeals to many for its colorful energy, community spirit, and joyful embrace of Mexican heritage through food, music, and celebration.
With Cinco de Mayo falling on a Monday this year, local favorites Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, and Twang are offering flavorful and festive ways to honor the traditions of Mexican culture. (Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, Twang, 2025)
Sip and Savor at Anaqua Garden Bar Located at the Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Anaqua Garden Bar invites guests to relax in its lush garden oasis with $8 margaritas available all day. It’s an ideal setting to unwind and toast to the vibrant traditions behind this cultural holiday.
Tequila-Inspired Treats at La Panadería Founded by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería continues to blend traditional Mexican baking with innovative flavors. This Cinco de Mayo, the menu shines with tequila-infused offerings, including:
Tequila Butter Steak & Eggs
Tequila Almond Croissant
Tequila Tres Leches Croissant
Tequila French Toast
A variety of refreshing tequila-based cocktails
Bring the Flavor Home with Twang Twang, a Latino-founded brand with nearly four decades of flavor expertise, uses Cinco de Mayo as a moment to celebrate cultural roots and family traditions. Known for products like Snack Salts, Beer Salts, Drink Rimmers, and their All-In-One Michelada Cocktail Mix, Twang’s flavor enhancers are made to elevate any drink or snack—perfect for at-home celebrations.
Together, these three local brands invite San Antonians to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with intention, joy, and a deep appreciation for Mexican heritage. Whether you’re clinking glasses at Anaqua, brunching on tequila delights at La Panadería, or adding a spicy twist to your drinks at home with Twang, make this May 5th a flavorful tribute to tradition.
SA Examiner 