Newly renovated Faust Hotel in New Braunfels announces May 19 opening. Photo: Jason Risner, used with permission.
A New Chapter for a Texas Icon: The Faust Hotel Reopens May 19
History meets modern luxury in the heart of New Braunfels. Lark Hospitality, in partnership with the Duettra family and their investors, is thrilled to announce the official reopening of The Faust Hotel on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. (Lark Hospitality, 2026)
Originally opened in 1929 as The Traveler’s Hotel, this nearly century-old landmark has undergone an extensive renovation to transform it into the premier boutique destination of Central Texas.
Modern Comfort, Historic Soul
The refreshed Faust Hotel features 45 modernly appointed guest rooms designed for the discerning traveler. Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or a special event, every room is equipped with:
Premium Sleep: King beds with high-quality linens.
Top-Tier Tech: 55-inch streaming-ready TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi.
In-Room Amenities: Nespresso coffee makers and retro Frigidaire mini-fridges.
For those seeking extra space, the hotel offers nine spacious junior suites and six corner suites that can be expanded into three-bedroom layouts with separate living areas.
Opening alongside the hotel is the signature restaurant, Wilhelm & Werner. Described as a Texas Brasserie with European influences, the menu offers refined takes on Lone Star classics.
The excitement doesn’t stop at the lobby. Keep an eye out for the upcoming grand openings of:
The Magnolia Patio: The perfect spot for al fresco relaxation.
Walter’s Speakeasy: A hidden gem tucked away in the basement.
A Legacy Continued
The reopening is more than just a business milestone; it’s a tribute to the community’s heritage.
“This project has been a labor of love for our friends and family, and it holds a great deal of importance to many in New Braunfels. We are thrilled to be able to carry on the legacy of the Faust Hotel and can’t wait for the community to see it.” — Andy Duettra, Owner
The Faust Hotel 240 S Seguin Ave New Braunfels, TX 78130
Spurs fans can enjoy a Spurs vs. Timberwolves Watch Party. Photo: Otto’s Ice House, used with permission.
Celebrate Mom: Mother’s Day Dining & Events in San Antonio
Mother’s Day is approaching on Sunday, May 10, and San Antonio’s local favorites are pulling out all the stops. Whether you’re looking for a chef-driven buffet, a relaxed riverside patio, or a high-energy watch party, these local eateries have curated the perfect experiences to honor the moms in your life. (Ácenar HotMex & Cool Bar, Smashin Crab, Maverick Texas Brasserie, The Barn Door, Muck & Fuss, Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
If Mom is a die-hard Spurs fan, Otto’s at the Pearl is the place to be. Hosted by Spurs Jesus, this family-friendly event combines Mother’s Day with game-day hype.
Schedule:
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Live music on the patio.
6:30 PM: Tip-off with sound-on TVs.
The Experience: Giveaways, trivia, and prizes led by Spurs Jesus.
Eats: Grab a Deluxe Smashburger, Cantina Queso, or a signature beer bucket.
Location: 111 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78212.
After 73 years of service, The Barn Door has announced it will be closing its doors forever. Their final day of service will be this Mother’s Day.
Final Service: May 10 | 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Legacy: Since 1953, this steakhouse has been a cornerstone of San Antonio dining. This is the last chance for families to celebrate one final tradition at this historic landmark.
Reservations: Available online—book now as spots are expected to fill quickly.
How are you planning to celebrate Mom this year? Whether it’s a quiet brunch or a loud cheers for the Spurs, San Antonio has something for everyone!
Celebrate with Cinco in the Sun at Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Celebrating Cinco de Mayo: History, Heritage, and San Antonio Hotspots
Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s 1862 victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. While it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has grown into a major celebration of Mexican-American culture and heritage in the United States.
From parades and mariachi music to traditional foods like mole and tacos, the day highlights cultural pride and community unity. If you’re looking to celebrate in the San Antonio area, local businesses are rolling out the red carpet with exclusive specials. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, The Gunter Hotel, The Jerk Shack, Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, Muck & Fuss/2026)
Location: 295 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX 78130
Pro Tip: Since many of these events fall on a Tuesday, reservations are highly recommended where available. Celebrate responsibly and enjoy the rich flavors of San Antonio!
Local restaurants are offering curated specials and limited-time offerings for the Irish holiday. Photo: Clementine.
San Antonio St. Patrick’s Day Guide: From Green Beer to Chef-Driven Menus
With St. Patrick’s Day fast approaching, San Antonio is proof that you don’t need to be in Dublin to find the “luck of the Irish.” Local favorites—including Clementine, Smashin Crab, and Muck & Fuss—are raising a glass with festive specials.
Whether you’re looking for a refined culinary experience or a front-row seat to a green river, here is how to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day in the Alamo City. (Clementine, Smashin Crab, Muck & Fuss, Ácenar HotMex & Coolbar, Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar, 2026)
Clementine: A Refined Irish Feast
On March 17, Clementineis putting a seasonal, chef-driven spin on the holiday with a one-day-only edition of its famous Feed Me experience. Forget the corned beef clichés; this menu reimagines Irish flavors through a sophisticated lens.
Highlighted Dishes: Hot pot cabbage with fried oysters, potato and Irish cheddar terrine, and Irish lobster agnolotti.
The “Pot of Gold”: Guests will enjoy a sweet surprise ahead of dessert.
Note: The regular à la carte dinner menu is still available. Reservations are recommended via OpenTable.
Smashin Crab: Green Beer & After Parties
This New Orleans-inspired seafood staple is bringing back its fan-favorite green beer, available all St. Paddy’s weekend.
After Party Happy Hour: Smashin Crab recently debuted a new happy hour during the final hour of service each day. While other spots are winding down, this is the perfect place for a post-parade celebration.
Details: Check their website for specific location hours and menu promotions.
Muck & Fuss (New Braunfels): Pints & Tots of Gold
Located in the heart of downtown New Braunfels, Muck & Fuss is offering a deal that’s hard to pass up.
The Special: The “Pint and Tot of Gold”—buy any pint and get half-off tater tots.
The Twist: You can turn any beer on tap green for the holiday.
Keep the Party Going: Head next door to their sister concept, Sidecar at Prince Solms Inn, for a vintage speakeasy vibe.
Ácenar HotMex & Coolbar: River Parade Views
If you want to be where the action is, Ácenaroffers a front-row seat to the San Antonio River Walk.
The Experience: Watch the river turn green from their scenic riverside patio while enjoying contemporary Mexican light bites and craft cocktails.
The Vibe: It’s the ideal “home base” for those attending the annual St. Patrick’s Day River Parade.
Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar: The Jameson Paloma
This Southtown icon is blending Irish spirit with Mexican flair by introducing a limited-time Jameson Paloma, available all weekend long.
Complimentary Tastings: On March 17, guests can enjoy free samples of the festive cocktail.
Location Perk: Located just a short walk from the River Walk, it’s a convenient stop for parade-goers looking to fuel up before or after the festivities.
Pro Tip: San Antonio’s River Walk gets incredibly busy during the parade. If you’re planning to visit Ácenar or Rosario’s, try to arrive early to snag a spot!
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. 🍷🍹
Mezquite Spread. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day Dining Guide: Romantic & Relaxed Restaurant Offerings
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Pullman Market’s offerings range from high-end, special-occasion dining experiences at Isidore and Nicosi to relaxed, approachable options at Fife & Farro and the Mezcaleria—ensuring there’s something for every kind of celebration. (Pullman Market, 2026)
Mezquite’s Sonoran-Inspired Valentine’s Dinner for Two
Mezquite’s Valentine’s Day menu draws from the rich flavors and traditions of Sonoran cuisine. Crafted for two, the dinner invites couples to savor each course and enjoy a relaxed, intimate evening together. Thoughtful dishes and warm hospitality set the tone for a cozy, memorable night.
For those looking to keep things casual, the Mezcaleria offers a laid-back way to celebrate. Open from 11 a.m. to midnight, the bar will be serving cocktails, food, and good energy all day long—perfect for a spontaneous date, a Galentine’s toast, or a nightcap to end the evening.
Walk-ins only
Nicosi’s Specialty Valentine’s Day Experience
At Nicosi, Valentine’s Day is centered around connection and indulgence. The Michelin Star dessert tasting menu concept will offer a one-night-only, multi-course experience exclusive to the holiday, encouraging guests to savor each moment together.
Price: $200 per guest
Includes: Choice of non-alcoholic pairing or wine & cocktail pairing
Isidore welcomes guests for a Michelin Star Valentine’s celebration with an elegant eight-course tasting menu. An optional wine pairing is also available, thoughtfully selected to complement each course and elevate the evening.
Fife & Farro at Pullman Market offers a more laid-back way to celebrate, featuring wood-fired sourdough pizzas and handmade pastas made with heritage grains.
Reservations: Available via OpenTable for Valentine’s Day only (Note: Reservations are not typically offered at Fife & Farro)
Same-day diners: Encouraged to join the waitlist
Walk-ins: Always welcome
Valentine’s Day Dining Around San Antonio & New Braunfels
San Antonio and New Braunfels’ premier restaurants—including Clementine, Maverick Texas Brasserie, Muck & Fuss, and more—are offering curated menus and intimate ambiance designed to create a truly memorable Valentine’s Day.
Clementine, the Castle Hills neighborhood gem is celebrating Valentine’s Day with a chef-driven prix-fixe dinner designed for lingering conversations and shared moments. Offered February 14 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the menu reflects James Beard Award finalist John Russ’s Southern roots and global sensibility, balancing bold comfort with refined elegance.
The downtown New Braunfels restaurant is celebrating Valentine’s Day for everyone, offering two prix-fixe menus welcoming couples, solo diners, and families alike—honoring romance, self-love, and quality time.
For a nightcap or post-dinner outing, guests can step next door to Sidecar, known for its vintage speakeasy vibe and live music. For the holiday, Sidecar will feature a curated menu of shareable bites and cocktails, including:
Southtown’s contemporary Mexican restaurant is spreading the love with the return of its popular Galentine-ARITA cocktail, available February 13–15. Made with El Tequileno, this pink, sparkling margarita is a festive favorite.
Rosario’s and El Tequileno are also hosting a Valentine’s Day giveaway for a free dinner for two, running through February 11, with details and the winner announced on Instagram.
Tip: Calling ahead or joining the waitlist is highly recommended for Valentine’s Day dining
Tenfold Rooftop at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk. Photo: Kimpton Santo, used with permission.
Super Bowl Sunday Specials: Where to Eat, Drink & Watch the Big Game in San Antonio
Super Bowl Sunday is almost here, and locally owned restaurants and bars across San Antonio and New Braunfels are bringing the heat with food deals, drink specials, and high-energy watch parties. From rooftop margaritas to wing specials and projector-screen viewing, here’s where to celebrate the Big Game on Sunday, February 8.
🍹 Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar (Southtown)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Football fans can enjoy half-off appetizers all day long at Rosario’s, available exclusively at the main bar and rooftop bar. The restaurant is also debuting The Benito Bowl, a blue frozen margarita inspired by this year’s halftime performer, Bad Bunny. (Rosario’s, 2026)
Both bars feature massive flat-screen TVs for optimal game viewing. The 25+ rooftop bar will also host its weekly Cozy Up Sundays, featuring $8 signature cocktails and bites.
📍 Walk-ins welcome | No reservations required
🦀 Smashin Crab (All Locations)
All Day Sunday | February 8
Smashin Crab is closing out football season strong with $1 wings all day, available for dine-in or takeout at all three locations, perfect for hosting your own watch party at home. (Smashin Crab, 2026)
Each restaurant is decked out with wall-to-wall TVs, and guests can also enjoy 2-for-1 Hurricanes, available through February 17.
🍻 Finnegan’s Sports & Spirits
All Day Sunday Happy Hour
Finnegan’s is keeping it simple and fun with all-day happy hour and beer bucket specials, including:
$4 Margaritas
$5 Bloody Marys
$15 Domestic Beer Buckets
A laid-back spot to sip, snack, and settle in for the game. (Finnegan’s, 2026)
Catch the game on TVs throughout the restaurant or on the projector screen in the Biergarten, while sipping from a lineup of 38 draft beers featuring top local and national breweries. (Muck & Fuss, 2026)
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Kick off Super Bowl Sunday at Corinne’s bar with game-day drink specials, including Bloody Marys, mimosas, beer specials, and an All Day Happy Hour Menu.
Snack on crowd favorites like buffalo cauliflower, regular wings, or a Trio Dip (guacamole, queso, salsa) while watching the game on two big screens. (Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, 2026)
Sunday, February 8 | Game at 5:30 PM | Trivia: 2–4 PM
📍 555 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 🚗 Valet parking available for $10
Anaqua Garden Bar is hosting a full-scale Super Bowl watch party with multiple projector screens with sound, theater-style seating, and plenty of food and drink.
The party starts early with trivia from 2–4 PM, featuring questions on Bad Bunny and 2026 Super Bowl commercials.
📍 Interior Courtyard, 431 S Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
Dean’s is extending happy hour drink specials all day in its comfortable interior courtyard. Watch the game on two TVs with sound while enjoying upscale-casual vibes, great drinks, and shareable bites. (Kimpton Santo San Antonio, 2026)
Paris Baguette is serving up football-themed sweets, including the King Creme Football Donut and Triple Chocolate Football Cream Cake. Donuts are available daily, while cakes are offered for weekend orders (preorders encouraged). (The Gunter Hotel, 2026)
Chef Levi Goode’s newest concept is the ultimate riverside spot for Super Bowl Sunday. Enjoy ice-cold drinks, hearty favorites like Cantina Queso, the Hill Country Deluxe Smashburger, and Otto’s Last Shot, all while watching the game on multiple indoor and outdoor TVs. (Otto’s Ice House, 2026)
Whether you’re craving wings, rooftop cocktails, or a full watch-party vibe, San Antonio’s local spots are bringing their A-game this Super Bowl Sunday. 🏈
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.
Created by Schlitterbahn’s founding family, the new boutique RV resort brings a high-end and personalized approach to camping. Photo: CoPilot Creative, used with permission.
With Memorial Day marking the unofficial start to summer, if you’re looking for vacation ideas, here’s a new RV resort that just opened in New Braunfels.
The family who founded the iconic Schlitterbahn waterpark recently announced that Camp Landa, a new boutique RV resort in the heart of New Braunfels, has opened to the public. With a prime location in historic downtown New Braunfels – and conveniently situated by the edge of the Comal River – travelers can now experience high-end camping in the Texas Hill Country in its entirety. RV sites and cabins are now available for reservations online. Follow Camp Landa on Instagram for special announcements, such as summer programming.(Camp Landa, 2024)
Camp Landa was previously the site for manufacturing water attractions for Schlitterbahn dating back to the early 1980s. The land has since been reconstructed to ensure an authentic yet upscale camping getaway for the entire family, with amenities like a heated pool, Wi-Fi, a camp store, on-site laundry, a fire pit with s’mores available for purchase, pickleball courts, basketball, and cornhole boards. Food and beverage options at the swim-up bar include cocktails like Camp Landa Agua Fresca and Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita and a café that features a menu with selections such as Rueben Egg Rolls and The Hurta Loaded Bavarian Pretzel which is topped with sauerkraut and Rust Meat Market old world bratwurst. Grilling ingredients can be ordered through Camp Landa’s personal text app, as well, for campers who want to barbecue at their leisure.
There is also a rotating programming schedule and organized activities for kids, along with a jump pad, a crafting station, and a playground. Families can choose between multiple level sites with a total of 110 to choose from – plus unique offerings, such as picnic tables and grills – all of which provide fast and easy hook-up for their RV. For travelers without an RV, there are five cozy cabins that sleep eight guests and come with a fully stocked kitchen, an outdoor dining area and a personal grill. Located less than a mile from Landa Falls – the longest float on the Comal – there’s a dedicated shuttle to and from the resort to the river. A text concierge is also available to provide insider tips for exploring New Braunfels.
“Our family is ecstatic to welcome the community and roadtrippers to our destination RV resort in picturesque New Braunfels. I promise you, Camp Landa is luxury camping made simple. We’ve thought of it all so that guests and families can just show up and enjoy an elevated camping experience curated by our team of experts.” – founder Stuart Blythin
Husband and wife duo Stuart and Tasha Blythin created Camp Landa after time spent traveling across the country with their four kids during the pandemic via their own RV, where they developed a shared enthusiasm for exploration. They connected with the fellowship found at campgrounds and RV parks across the American West.
The locals – and their children, who also work at the resort – intend for Camp Landa to become a must-visit destination RV resort for travelers from around the country. The Blythins are guided by a genuine love for hospitality, and the family has more than 50 years of experience in hosting and entertaining generations of Texas families.
Inspired by Tasha Blythin’s family history as a sixth-generation Texan and her ties to Schlitterbahn – where she and Stuart met in 2004 before her family sold the waterpark in 2019 – the essence of Camp Landa draws upon the original Camp Landa which Tasha’s grandparents purchased in 1966 and eventually developed into Schlitterbahn, along with its New Braunfels’ German heritage. It evokes “Fernweh,” the longing feeling in our hearts to pack a bag and discover a place, known or unknown. Original aspects of Schlitterbahn have been saved and are reflected at Camp Landa, including a smoke stack from one of the main buildings, which was sourced from the original slide manufacturing plant for the waterpark.
Camp Landa is located at 723 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130. Hours of operation for the café and other staffed amenities are 8a.m. to 6p.m. daily and 8a.m. to p.m. during the summer months.
SA Examiner 