Bucket List Destination: WorldSprings Dallas

WorldSprings Dallas, the first mineral springs wellness destination, is now open. Photo: WorldSprings, used with permission.

WorldSprings is now officially open at Grandscape in The Colony. Debuting as the first outdoor mineral springs immersive experience in Texas and the largest of its kind in the United States, WorldSprings has 46 outdoor soaking pools, eight saunas, a 12-room first-class spa facility, a premier food and beverage program, and more. Located only 20 minutes outside of Dallas, WorldSprings is the second water retreat from investment firm Off Road Capital, preceded by its sister site, Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. As the largest location to date under Off Road Capital’s portfolio, WorldSprings spans 9 acres, cementing its status as a landmark destination for travelers and residents alike. (WorldSprings, 2024)

“After years of dedicated planning and preparation, we are overjoyed to open our doors and contribute to the wellness and community improvement of the vibrant DFW area. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where everyone can focus on their wellness and come together to build a stronger sense of community spirit.” – Amelia Wohrle, General Manager

Thoughtfully designed by architectural and engineering solutions firm HFA-AE, WorldSprings is an all-encompassing social and recreational wellness destination that features mineral soaking pools inspired by the world’s most famous hot springs – such as Jordan’s Dead Sea, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and Mexico’s Grutas Tolantongo, all once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list destinations. The pools are meticulously formulated with minerals and ranging from hot to cold temperatures in order to bring the restorative soaking benefits all to one place. 

Visitors are greeted in the check-in area where they can browse a highly curated retail section and begin their experience. The Spa and Wellness Center brings world-class body treatments, facials and athletic recovery to guests, making WorldSprings a truly singular destination for the wellness-minded. Once checked in, guests make their way to the locker room, which serves as home base during their WorldSprings experience. The neighboring The Springs Kitchen & Bar welcomes guests to dine in. WorldSprings has a total of 46 pools ranging in temperature from 45-degree cold plunge pools to 104-degree bodies of water to ensure a completely personalized wellness journey. VIP cabanas are available for rent.

Guests will be able to enjoy a variety of water experiences, including:

  • The freshwater Globe Pool, created for all ages
  • The Dead Sea pool, a saline-enriched pool for 18+ adults only
  • Four minerally dense destination areas are formulated to replicate the soaking experience of the Americas, Europe, Asia and South Pacific regions of the world. These pools are for 18+ adults only. 

“This venture represents not only a new chapter for our company but also a testament to our commitment to offering exceptional hospitality centered around making our guests feel better. We look forward to sharing the magic of WorldSprings with the local community.” – Chris Barrett, WorldSprings CEO

WorldSprings Dallas
3240 Plano Parkway
The Colony, Texas 75056

Iron Mountain Hot Springs is located on the bank of the Colorado River in Glenwood Springs. Soaking options include 16 thermal water pools filled with 100 percent pure mineral water, a new mineral pool, and a freshwater family pool with a whirlpool spa. WorldSprings is the property’s latest expansion for adults 21 years and older, adding 10 new mineral experience pools, a cold plunge pool, two large freshwater pools and a new cafe. 

National Michelada Day: A Twang Michelada Mix Recipe

National Michelada Day is Friday July 12, 2024. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

As National Michelada Day approaches on July 12, Twang is sharing a recipe to elevate your celebration using Twang Michelada Mix & Twang Reserve Michelada Rimming Salt. Twang, a Tex-Mex inspired, family-driven company, specializes in the creation of products with flavored salt, sugar, and spice blends. (Twang, 2024)

Raise your glass to celebrate National Michelada day with Twang’s Classic Michelada recipe below:

Twang Classic Michelada 

Ingredients:

  • Twang Reserve Michelada Rimming Salt
  • Choice of Twang Classic Michelada Mix, Spicy Michelada Mix or Pickle Michelada Mix
  • Mexican Lager of your choosing
  • Lime 

Directions:

  1. Rim glass with Twang Reserve Michelada Salt then fill with ice.
  2. Add choice of Twang Michelada Mix and Mexican Lager. 
  3. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

The secret to making the perfect Michelada is the 16oz. Twang Michelada Mix. Crafted with a blend of versatile and flavorful ingredients, Twang enhances the flavor of any beer with its rich and zesty flavor. Flavors include the Classic Michelada Mix, Spicy Michelada Mix and Pickle Michelada Mix. Priced at just $7.00 each, this mix is a staple for anyone who loves to celebrate with a flavorful and fun drink.

Made from premium salts and a blend of unique spices, Twang Reserve Michelada Rimming Salt adds a savory kick to your Michelada. Enjoy a perfectly salted rim ready to pair with any beverage priced at just $4.00. 

Style Reborn: Exploring Rehab Revolution Apparel

Rehab Revolution Apparel has unique apparel for nurses, therapists, and patients. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Specialized clothing and gifts for medical professionals are an excellent way to  recognize their dedication and care. Whether it’s a small token of appreciation or a meaningful item, such gestures can brighten their day and show gratitude for their tireless efforts. It’s a way to acknowledge their hard work, especially in demanding times, and to remind them that their compassion does not go unnoticed. Most of all, they promote a sense of camaraderie and appreciation within the healthcare community. When it comes to gift giving and getting, Rehab Revolution Apparel is leading the way.

Rehab Revolution Apparel – Discover fun and positive clothing and gifts designed for nurses, therapists, cancer survivors, surgery patients, and individuals on the journey to sobriety. Gifts include custom made t-shirts, candles, and other specialized gifts.

Reasons to consider a gift from Rehab Revolution Apparel:

  • Support Patients and Care Givers Alike – Items are tailored for nurses, therapists, and patients, with customization options.
  • Made in the U.S.A. – Discover a collection of meticulously designed and crafted products, all made right here in the U.S.A.
  • Fast Shipping – Enjoy fast shipping to receive your products promptly. They prioritize efficiency and convenience for all our customers.

These gifts are suitable for:

  • Nurses
  • Physical Therapists
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Speech Therapists
  • Cancer survivors and those recovering from illness/surgery
  • People celebrating their sobriety
Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Gifts from Rehab Revolution Apparel make excellent gifts for the medical professional in your life, or even yourself, to celebrate your hard work and accomplishments. If you know someone who is celebrating being cancer free or recuperating from an illness or surgery, they have gifts for that too. Customized gifts are more personal and thoughtful. So check out the wide selection of gifts and start shopping!

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Twang partners with Alamo Beer Company for new Spicy Michelada VIVA Beer

Twang-partnered VIVA Beer launches on May 5, 2024. Photo: Twang, used with permission.

Twang is excited to announce its collaboration with local beloved brewery—Alamo Beer Company—for a new Spicy Michelada flavored VIVA Beer. The new beer, launching May 5, is crafted with Twang’s Spicy Michelada Mix. It will be available for purchase at Alamo Beer Company at the launch party and will be available for purchase in 19.2 ounce tallboy cans from the brewery. (Twang, 2024)

“We are so thrilled to partner with our good friends at Alamo Beer Company. Our Spicy Michelada Mix pairs perfectly with VIVA Beer, so it felt like a great collaboration to bring a delicious taste of flavors that San Antonians can raise a glass to.” – Twang CEO Elysia Treviño-Gonzales

In honor of the Spicy Michelada VIVA Beer launch, Alamo Beer Company and Twang are hosting a Launch Party from 11a.m. to 4p.m. on Sunday, May 5. The new beer will be available for purchase in 19.2 ounce tallboy cans to be enjoyed at the brewery and to-go. Vendors like El Retonito, Bad USA, AJ’s Snack Shack, NeighborPhood, To the Moon Creations, and more will also be set up at the event for guests to enjoy.

“Twang has been the perfect partner for our newest VIVA Beer brand. Prioritizing quality, flavor and community is at the core of VIVA and Twang. We hope San Antonio and beyond is as excited to try the new Spicy Michelada Beer as we are to share it with everyone.” – Alamo Beer Company Founder/CEO Eugene Simor

The Spicy Michelada VIVA Beer is available for purchase in 6-pack and 12-pack options in addition to single tallboy cans at the brewery. The single tallboy cans are available for purchase at all H-E-B locations across San Antonio and New Braunfels, select convenience stores across both cities, and at Go Rio in San Antonio.

Established in 1986, Twang Partners, LLC is a trailblazing Latino-founded company dedicated to crafting premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasoning blends. With a rich history spanning over three decades, Twang consistently delivers top-quality products authentically made to enhance the taste, appearance and enjoyment of food and beverages. At the heart of Twang’s diverse portfolio are grab and go Flavored Salts, Beer Salts, Drink Rimmers, and an All-In-One Michelada Cocktail mix. Additionally, Twang specializes in crafting blends tailored for the food service industry. Our commitment to quality and innovation has driven successful collaborations with top food and beverage companies worldwide, resulting in custom toppings and inclusions that redefine culinary experiences.

Since December 2014, Alamo Beer Company has proudly brewed the only beer to bear the ALAMO name since the start of Prohibition in 1919. And just like the stories of The Alamo Defenders, the history of our beer is our courageous, independent, unrestrained and true to itself. Alamo Beer Company and VIVA Beer merged together in 2022. Since then, they have been working hand in hand to craft exceptional experiences, celebrate the essence of San Antonio, and raise a toast to the vibrant craft beer culture that defines our beloved city.

Taco Cabana unveils new menu offerings and partnership with Jarritos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Fermenteria opens taproom in San Antonio

Fermenteria, a unique new alcoholic beverage, introduces hard water kefir to the San Antonio market. Photo: Giant Noise Partners, used with permission.

San Antonio’s newest taproom — Fermenteria — is now open for business at 2243 East Commerce. Fermenteria is a hard water kefir beverage that is naturally fermented and alive with hundreds of strains of probiotics, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kefir grains are used to balance the fermentation environment, then flavored with botanicals and natural extracts for a lightly sweet and effervescent finish. The alcohol is created from a wild yeast culture that occurs within the fermentation process. (Fermenteria, 2024)

Fermenteria is owned by entrepreneur Jade Sheppard, who studied at the University of Texas in Austin. The team at Fermenteria learned how to make hard water kefir after first trying it in Nicaragua and spent the last two years working with brew masters in central Texas to build a formula and method that would allow her to brew it commercially.

“When I first tried hard water kefir, I was astonished at how light and bubbly it was because it gave me a great little buzz with no hangover. I couldn’t be more excited to share this great drink with the Central Texas community. Now that we’ve opened our doors, Fermenteria will be a fantastic, healthy alcoholic alternative.” – owner Jade Sheppard.

Every ingredient used at Fermenteria is curated for quality and flavor profile. Water kefir beverages contain 100% naturally occurring enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support  the gut’s biome, aiding in metabolism and strengthens the immune system. Fermenteria’s alcoholic beverages contain 5% alcohol, zero sugar, and are only 100 calories. Flavors include Pineapple Lemongrass, Brut, Hibiscus Sangria, Paloma, Thai Lime Coconut, and Orange Elderflower. The taproom will also be serving several non-alcoholic options including nitro cold brew coffee and espresso beverages in addition to some water kefir flavors. Non-alcoholic flavors include Pineapple Coconut, Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade, and Strawberry Lime Tulsi.

The taproom is open Wednesday through Sunday. Operating hours are 4p.m. to 10p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 4p.m. to midnight on Fridays, 11a.m. to midnight on Saturdays, and 11a.m. to 9p.m. on Sundays. In addition to enjoying Fermenteria in the taproom, guests can also purchase growlers to-go or bring in their own container. Fermenteria will soon be bottling its product to be available at local grocery and convenience stores; more information to be announced at a later date. Local bars and restaurants interested in carrying Fermenteria on tap can contact the taproom for more information.

With a commitment to work alongside the small business community, Fermenteria will host a free monthly community event for San Antonio residents to look forward to. Each event will give back proceeds being donated to a local nonprofit. The first community event at Fermenteria will be held from 6p.m. to midnight on Saturday, April 13. The event will benefit the Thrive Youth Center, a shelter for LGBTQ+ youth.

Fermenteria
2243 East Commerce
San Antonio, TX 78203

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa officially opens spa

The Spa at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa is set to open on March 8, 2024. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.

The Spa Plaza San Antonio opens to the public and guests on March 8 with signature treatments and wellness rituals including feather therapy, crystal wand massages, ayurvedic massages, Rainbow Chakra Mats, virtual relaxation journeys, custom tea ceremonies, and the use of oils indigenous to South Texas. Located on the grounds of the Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection, The Spa Plaza San Antonio is surrounded by lush gardens and greenery and sits within two 19th-century homes, the Elmendorf-Tyler House and The Staffel House, built in the 1850s. The homes were thoughtfully restored to preserve the property’s rich history and transformed into a luxury spa setting featuring six treatment rooms, a Zen Lounge, and a Wellness Concierge. (Plaza San Antonio, 2024)

The Spa Plaza San Antonio offers a restorative approach to health and wellness, including a selection of treatments like Body Rituals, Massage Rituals, Skincare Rituals, Nail Rituals, Immersion Packages, and Enhancements. Guests will be guided through a holistic spa experience to enhance the mind, body, and spirit.

In honor of this momentous opening at Plaza San Antonio, The Spa is offering a Buy One Get One Free promotion for guests who take advantage of this offer by Sunday, March 31. The offer is valid for services scheduled until December 31, 2024 and is subject to availability and excluding blackout dates. This promotion is NOT applicable to add-ons. The free service must be equal to or more than the first service. Standard spa booking terms and conditions still apply. To redeem this promotion and confirm availability, guests must call the spa at 210-353-8016 or stop in and mention the promo code: Wellness2024

The Spa Plaza San Antonio Opening: Friday, March 8, 2024
***Operating Hours: Tuesday – Sunday from 9a.m. – 6p.m.

BOGO Offer: Now through Sunday, March 31, 2024
***Services can be scheduled through December 31, 2024
***Scheduling is based on availability

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection
555 S Alamo St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

Thompson Houston opens as a sophisticated urban destination

Marking the Thompson Hotels brand’s fourth property in Texas, the highly anticipated luxury lifestyle hotel is now open and welcoming guests. Panoramic Suite photo: Thompson Houston, used with permission.

Thompson Houston, Houston’s newest luxury lifestyle hotel, opened its doors this week and offers a distinctive guest experience with an edge that celebrates the individuality of Space City with an urban vibe overlooking the verdant Buffalo Bayou Park. Set against the backdrop of rare unobstructed views of downtown Houston’s skyline, the hotel captures the vibrancy of the city with an unapologetically stylish design signature to the brand, a stunning spa sanctuary, world-class dining, and elevated spaces perfect for weddings and events. (Murphy O’Brien, 2024)

Thompson Houston features 172 guestrooms, including 34 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a residential feel designed to evoke the spirit of old Texas, with entirely custom-made furnishings and spacious en-suite bathrooms with marble vanities and custom wall treatments and tiling. 

Located on the seventh floor, the mid-century modern-styled lobby in the sky captures the spirit of Houston with an edgy spirit and sophisticated yet familiar contemporary design. Thompson Houston offers one of the city’s largest outdoor rooftops, with a custom-tiled infinity pool boarded by cabanas, and a 2,500-square-foot greenspace, both providing views of downtown and creating an idyllic setting for outdoor weddings and events.

An entire floor is dedicated to the full-service Thompson Spa at Thompson Houston, featuring six treatment suites with spa treatments on par with those of a world-class destination spa resort, combining ancestral tradition with scientific innovation. The spa offers indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, saunas, a salon, and a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness center. A lineup of bespoke treatments are available to guests and locals, including massages, facials, body and hydration scrubs, men’s treatments, regenerative treatments, and more utilizing luxury products from Pietro Simone and Agent Nateur. Hotel guests also receive access to the EOS fitness center, just steps from the hotel. 

Further expanding Houston’s vibrant culinary offerings, Sol 7 is Thompson Houston’s signature all day dining restaurant located off the lobby, featuring rooftop seating where guests can enjoy creative cocktails and seasonal fare. Opening soon are two additional restaurants operated by TableOne Hospitality: Chardon, a French brasserie that will debut in summer 2024, and Buck 40, an upscale supper club slated to open in fall 2024. Additionally, Thompson Houston is home to the first brick-and-mortar outpost of local coffee company, Maven Coffee Company, offering specialty coffees, pastries, and coffee-based cocktails. Complementing these dining venues will be an additional collection of restaurants opening spring 2024 from acclaimed restaurant group Noble33 including Toca Madera, a modern Mexican steakhouse, and Meduza Mediterrania, an inventive Mediterranean dining experience.

Offering more than 17,000 square feet of meticulously designed flexible indoor and outdoor event space to accommodate groups of up to 800 people, Thompson Houston is the city’s newest destination for weddings, meetings, iconic galas, and social events. All venues showcase a residential feel, from intimate executive boardrooms to an 8,000-square-foot ballroom adorned with eclectic mesh chandeliers, brass accents and a private terrace and private entrance for large groups. Customizable breakout rooms and pre-function space also feature floor-to-ceiling windows with many rooms boasting private, wraparound outdoor terraces with views of the city.

The only hotel in Houston with a 160-acre park at its doorstep, Thompson Houston provides an urban respite with several open-air spaces and guest amenities encouraging wellness and outdoor exploration. Guests are welcome to explore the nearby trails on bike with complimentary Thompson Houston-branded Bluejay Electric Bicycles, and hydration stations are available on each floor in addition to daily newspapers, and complimentary fresh fruit.

Thompson Houston is conveniently located near world-class shopping at the Galleria, the stately River Oaks neighborhood, downtown Houston, the Museum District, professional sports venues at Minute Maid Park and Shell Energy Stadium, and is a 25-minute drive from George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William Hobby Airport.

To provide World of Hyatt members even more rewards, World of Hyatt is offering them the opportunity to earn 500 Bonus Points for qualifying nights at Thompson Houston, valid through May 31, 2024, as part of World of Hyatt’s new hotel member offer. Additional participating hotels and their offer stay periods can be found online. No registration is required and members can earn on top of other offers.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit Thompson Houston or follow the hotel on Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Freight Fried Chicken opens at Pearl this Saturday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy photo, used with permission.
1705148933

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

Freight Fried Chicken opening date