Tag: Foodie News

San Antonio Food Events: The 2026 Fajita Lounge Showdown at Gimme Gimme

Gimme Gimme announces the fourth annual ‘Fajita Lounge Showdown’ taking place this Sunday. Photo: TxTroubleMaker, used with permission.

Sizzle & Smoke: The 4th Annual Fajita Lounge Showdown at Gimme Gimme

San Antonio, get your taste buds ready. Gimme Gimme is thrilled to announce the return of the Fajita Lounge Showdown. Now in its fourth year, this high-stakes culinary battle features eight of the city’s top chefs, plus the brave men and women of SAFD Stations #7 & #28, all competing for the ultimate bragging rights: the title of “Best Fajita Tacos” in San Antonio. (Gimme Gimme, 2026)

A Tradition of Carne Asada

Since 2022, the Fajita Lounge pop-ups have become a local legend. Founded by Aaron Peña, Chef Matt Garcia, and Chef Jake Gonzales, these events have built a massive following by celebrating the simple, smoky joy of a perfect taco. This year, the stakes are higher, the grills are hotter, and the trophy is up for grabs.

The 2026 Contender Lineup

Who will take home the $500 grand prize? Our lineup features a mix of heavy hitters and local favorites:

  • Leche de Tigre (The 2025 Defending Champion)
  • The Magpie
  • Naco Mexican
  • Little Death
  • Aguazul
  • El Weinecero
  • Porc Slap
  • Burritos Dorada
  • San Antonio Fire Department Station #7 & #28

The Secret Ingredient: This year, all contestants will be using ArnieTex’s Arnie Asadas Seasonings to season their entries. Want to try the flavor for yourself? Head to the Charro Beans Station featuring Arnie’s legendary South Texas BBQ seasonings.

Meet the Judges

We’ve assembled a panel of Texas food royalty to crown this year’s winner:

  • ArnieTex: New York Times bestselling author and BBQ legend.
  • José Ralat: Texas Monthly Taco Editor.
  • Brandon Watson: CultureMap San Antonio City Editor.
  • Mike Dubya: Local foodie influencer.

Event Details & Afterparty

Come for the tacos, stay for the vibes. There will be specialty cocktails flowing from Live Oak Vodka, while DJs Texas Papi and SunnyBoy keep the energy high all night long.

  • When: Sunday, April 12, 2026
  • Time: 5 PM – 12 AM
  • Where: Gimme Gimme | 803 S St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX
  • Entry: $10 at the door (Must be 21+)

Note: Tacos are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Arrive early you don’t want to miss the best bite in the city.

Spain Fusion 2025 Brings Michelin-Starred Flavor to San Antonio

Spain Fusion returns to Texas, bringing free immersive food and wine experience to San Antonio. Photo: Spain Fusion, used with permission.

Spain Fusion 2025: A Culinary & Wine Experience in San Antonio

Culinary and hospitality professionals are invited to Spain Fusion 2025, the immersive food and wine showcase hosted by Vocento, the team behind Spain’s world-renowned Madrid Fusion. (Pearl, 2025)

This free event offers an unforgettable day of panels, tastings, and networking with Spain’s leading exporters of wine, seafood, Iberian ham, olive oil, conservas, cheese, and more.

📅 Friday, October 17, 2025
📍 Pearl, San Antonio, TX
🕐 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

What to Expect

  • Exclusive Tastings & Panels: Explore the best of Spain’s culinary heritage.
  • Michelin-Starred Chefs: Featuring Juanlu Fernández, Luis Roger, Xosé T. Cannas, and more.
  • New to Texas: Be the first to sample premium Spanish products debuting in the local market.
  • Educational Experiences: Learn directly from acclaimed chefs and culinary instructors.

Event Schedule

Spain Fusion Daytime

🕐 11:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
📍 Hotel Emma at Pearl
136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

Enjoy educational sessions, tastings, and product showcases.

Spain Fusion Night Out

🕐 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
📍 Outdoors at the Cellars Pavilion (by Pearl Park)
312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Network while enjoying tasting demonstrations, passed bites, and beverages under the stars.

Important Details

  • 🎟 FREE Event – RSVP Required
  • 🍷 Must be 21+ to attend.
  • 👩‍🍳 Intended for food, beverage, and hospitality professionals as well as distributors.
  • 🌟 A limited number of spots are available to the general public on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, RSVP will close.
  • Flexible, come-and-go format for both day and evening sessions.