RIO Magazine DECEMBER 2019

DECEMBER 2019 COMPLIMENTARY

Shopping, Lights & Sports Multi-Cultural Holiday Celebrations Curated Holiday Activities

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RIO Magazine

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IN THIS ISSUE 12

SIP & SAVOR NOT JUST FOOD TRUCKS ANYMORE

By Kimberly A, Suta

20

32

RECREATION GO TEAM GO!

By Drew Henry

16

BE ENTERTAINED HANDS-ON HAPPY HOLIDAYS

By Susan Yerkes

FAMILY FUN DREAMING OF A LIGHT CHRISTMAS

By Carole Miller

IN EVERY ISSUE FEATURES 12 16 20 24

Sip & Savor Family Fun Be Entertained Great Finds

28 Culture & Community 32 Recreation 36 24/48/72 Hours

GUIDES 40 Food & Drink 42 Arts & Entertainment 44 Shopping

MAPS 46 River Walk 47 Museum Reach

& King William 52 Downtown 57 Greater San Antonio

SPOTLIGHT

COUPONS

54 Burgerteca 60 Gourdoughs

58,59 Coupons

ON THE COVER

Sing in the holidays with Ford Holiday Boat Caroling, a San Antonio twist to a timeless Christmas tradition. Enjoy a cocktail or meal from a patio or balcony and listen to carolers as they slowly float throughout the downtown section of the River Walk. Caroling begins at 6:00 p.m. each night. Visit TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com/events for a caroling route map and exact times.

Cover photo by Santa’s favorite elf, Joe Chidgey.

6 RIO Magazine

RIO Magazine is the official publication of the San Antonio River Walk Association. All expressions of opinions and statements of supposed facts are published on the authority of the writer and cannot be regarded as expressing the views of the San Antonio River Walk Association or its Publisher. Advertisements do not imply sponsorship or endorsement by the San Antonio River Walk Association or its Publisher.

2019 San Antonio River Walk Association

The San Antonio River Walk Association’s mission is to promote, protect and preserve the River Walk.

This is done through special events, public education, social media, and RIO Magazine. The association also serves as an advocate for member businesses. For more information, call 210-227-4262.

PRESIDENT Maria Martinez The Westin Riverwalk PRESIDENT-ELECT John Carbajal Keller Williams PAST-PRESIDENT Laurence Seiterle Zurich Properties TREASURER Ryan Wood On the Bend CHAIR, OPERATORS COMMITTEE Andreas Esparza Boudro’s EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Maggie Thompson San Antonio River Walk Association EX-OFFICIOS Veronica Cameron Center City Development and Operations Department Angela Camarillo San Antonio River Authority Eddie Romero Centro San Antonio Will Grinnan San Antonio Restaurant Association Sharon Aguillen San Antonio Tourism Council

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bob Buchanan The Original Mexican Restaurant Ashley Ciomperlik Wyndham Garden Riverwalk Terry Corless Mad Dogs Group Mike DeLuna Paesanos Restaurant Group Kevin Donohue Donohue Media Amanda Garcia Visit San Antonio Jesse Holguin PepsiCo

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James Kinney Splashtown San Antonio Ric Morales Silver Eagle Distributors Tammy Peacock-Werline Topgolf David Ramirez San Japan Rudy Saenz Staybridge Suites Carrie Anne Silvers Hard Rock Cafe Mark Vilagi Sheraton Gunter Hotel

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EDITOR’S LETTER

The Official Magazine of the River Walk

PUBLISHER

Louis Doucette louis@travelingblender.com EDITOR Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias and the Christmas lights. Photo by John Torres

Paula Schechter paula@riverwalksa.org BUSINESS MANAGER

WHO DOESN’T LOVE A GOOD SELFIE? In 2002 an Australian college student invented the word selfie after a drunken night out when he posted, “Sorry about the focus; it was a selfie.” Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and other celebs embraced it, and well, the rest is history. In 2013 Oxford dictionaries dubbed it as word of the year. It’s extraordinary to me that a word could be invented and rise to mainstream fame in such a short time.

Much to the frustration of family and friends, I prefer being behind the camera. However, December in San Antonio is the best time to take pics in either direction. The spirit of all the holidays celebrated this month is evident throughout our city. Read the Culture & Community story starting on page 28. Read about other picture-perfect activities in Family Fun, Great Finds, and Be Entertained. And who doesn’t have food pics on their phones? Check out Sip & Savor for trending hotspots.

I invite you to three photo-worthy events while strolling on the River Walk this December. Angle your selfies up to include the 100,000 light display through January 13. Take a long-shot to capture the Ford Fiesta de las

Vicki Schroder vicki@travelingblender.com ADVERTISING SALES

San Antonio: Janis Maxymof janismaxymof@gmail.com Gerry Lair gerry@travelingblender.com Madeleine Justice madeleine@travelingblender.com Austin: Sandy Weatherford sandy@travelingblender.com

Luminarias held Friday through Sunday the first three weekends. And, I recommend a video to capture the

GRAPHIC DESIGN

sounds of Ford Holiday Boat Caroling as they float on the river nightly through December 22.

2 Rare Birds Creative info@2rarebirds.com

From all of us at RIO Magazine, I wish you a very selfie-season!

HO-HO-HO,

Paula Schechter

Editor, Rio Magazine paula@riverwalksa.org

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com

Rio Magazine is published by Traveling Blender, LLC. (Publisher) on behalf of the San Antonio River Walk Association. Reproduction in any manner in whole or in part is prohibited without the express written consent of the San Antonio River Walk Association. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the San Antonio River Walk Association or its staff. Rio Magazine, the Publisher and the San Antonio River Walk Association reserve the right to edit all material for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Rio Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial nor does the Publisher or the San Antonio River Walk Association assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photos are welcome and may be submitted to our office to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher and San Antonio River Walk Association. All submissions become the property of the San Antonio River Walk Association. All Real Estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such a preference limitation or discrimination.”

10 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

y dinner cr a u rd is on the u e t a San Antonio River Walk

s

s

*

This fall, book a Saturday Dinner Cruise aboard a river boat whilst floating and dining along the towering cypress-lined San Antonio River Walk.You’ll enjoy an authentic Italian experience, full of fresh ingredients, bold flavors and legendary dishes like our famous Shrimp Paesano – now celebrating 50 years.

Begin your excursion at Paesanos Riverwalk and we’ll take care of the rest.

D I N N E R : $65++/per person

SEE MENUS, DATES AND RESERVATION FORMS AT PAESANOSRIVERWALK.COM or contact Mike at 210-226-8490 for more information

111 West Crockett Street

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(210) 227-2782

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www.paesanosriverwalk.com

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++ Indicates 8.25% sales tax and 20% service charge will be applied. Menus and prices are subject to change without notice. Max 20 guests on board.

SIP & SAVOR Torchy's Tacos

Not Just FOOD TRUCKS Anymore

by Kimberly A. Suta

Chela's Tacos

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Attagirl

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Most locals know one of San Antonio’s most prominent food truck to brick and mortar success stories is Chef Pieter Sypsteyn’s journey from Where Y’at food truck to one of our city’s most revered restaurants, The Cookhouse, which serves up incredible New Orleans-style cuisine with Chef Sypsteyn’s signature South Texas twists. However, several other phenomenal concepts have also taken off their (training) wheels and taken a leap faith.

ATTAGIRL Cullum’s Attagirl, owned and operated by Chef Chris Cullum, has earned a reputation for its South Texas comfort food, he calls “country French soul food.” From some of the most succulent fried chicken you will ever eat to spectacular wings, sandwiches, and sides, what sets Attagirl apart is the dedication to high quality, scratch-made fare using French techniques.

Don’t bother asking if the pickles and ranch are made in-house, because they are, along with everything else. The fried chicken recipe comes from Cullum’s grandparents. Although he’s tweaked the spice blend to include jalapenos, serranos, and Japanese red peppers, to name a few, it’s still marinated in buttermilk for two days, to guarantee a juicy bird.

The prelude to Attagirl was a food truck called Attaboy, which started serving food at the now-defunct Alamo Street Eats Bar in 2011, and is still serving food, but only for special caterings. Cullum was at the forefront of the food truck scene here in San Antonio, when culinary risk-takers and inventors developed a following by honing in on their craft and making just a few things really well. For Cullum, it was hamburgers. Thanks to the success of Attaboy, Cullum was then able to bring his dream of owning a Texas ice house to life with Attagirl.

So if you’re looking for some good beer and good food in a chill, unassuming space (no sign required), head over to Attagirl, just north of downtown along S. St. Mary’s Street, and enjoy.

CHELA'S TACOS Chela’s Tacos started life as a food truck (customized trailer) in 2006 near UTSA and quickly built a following for their authentic Mexican food.

Although the menu items are familiar to this taco town, Chela’s steers away from Tex-Mex. Owner Chela Davis, who hails from Mexico City, traveled and studied the different regions of Mexico to develop a menu of traditional Mexican cuisine. According to Chela’s daughter and co-owner, Fernanda Davis, thesanantonioriverwalk.com

everything is made fresh and as healthy as possible, just like they do in Mexico, which is something she believes sets them apart.

They opened up their first restaurant four years ago in Alamo Heights, and now have a second location on S. St. Mary’s near Hwy. 281. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the week, including favorites like the creamy chicken cilantro, pork carnitas, and cochinita-pibil, a dish that comes from the Yucatan Peninsula made with shredded pork marinated in different chilis and spices and then wrapped in a banana leaf. The plate comes with rice, beans, and handmade corn or flour tortillas.

It’s all so delicious that former food truck fans, once college students, are now coming to the restaurant with their kids and families. The mom and daughter team love seeing the impact they have had on people’s lives.

Chela's Tacos

TORCHY'S TACOS Torchy’s Tacos started as a hugely popular taco trailer in Austin in 2006 and recently opened its largest location to date on San Antonio’s north side in the Sonterra area – this is their 3rd location in town. All-in-all, they now have 65 locations across Texas, Colorado, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Torchy’s prides itself on their talent for elevating traditional street taco with unexpected flavor combinations made with locally-sourced highquality ingredients. The menu showcases over 30 tacos with a spectrum of proteins and flavors. The crowd-pleasing Trailer Park taco comes with fried chicken, green chiles, pico de gallo, cheddar jack cheese, poblano sauce, lettuce, or queso. Throw in a fresh-squeezed margarita, which is $2 off during happy hour, and you’ve got yourself a satisfying meal.

THE LUXURY The Luxury, owned by one of San Antonio’s top chefs, Andrew Weissman, may not have started as a food truck. However, they do serve food out of a box, a shipping container, to be exact.

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SIP & SAVOR

Photo at left and below: The Luxury

Located along the River Walk, across from the San Antonio Museum of Art, there’s nothing like it in the city. Chef Weissman was inspired by the clever concept he had seen in Europe and wanted to create a place that spoke to the vibe of the neighborhood – something organic and different, a spot he describes as an open-air community family room. The fact that The Luxury gave new life to these boxes by repurposing them makes it all the cooler.

Truth Pizza

click on this: CHELA’S TACOS Chelas-tacos.com CULLUM’S ATTAGIRL Facebook.com/cullumsattagirl THE LUXURY Facebook.com/theluxurysanantonio TORCHY’S TACOS Torchystacos.com 14 RIO Magazine

Although, it’s an ideal spot to sojourn on a lovely evening with some brews or wine at the picnic tables or on the cozy swings facing the river, do not miss out on the food. Weissman didn’t become one of the city’s most renowned restaurateurs without knowing a thing or two about cuisine – in this case, elevated bar food.

The restaurant just launched a new menu including a banh mi, Weissman’s signature hamburger (similar to Mr. Juicy), and a to-die-for Japanese-style panko-crusted

chicken sandwich. Although this chef is known around town for his fantastic double-blanched French fries, you should try the new loaded tater tots, made with cheese, applewood smoked bacon, and a fried egg.

Lucky travelers will love the fact that The Luxury will soon be opening up a second spot at the San Antonio airport, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a more extensive selection of libations.

HOT TIP Truth Pizza, which started began as a food truck called Sulla Strada Pizza in 2013, is slated to open their first restaurant featuring hot, bubbly New York-style pizza, along with calzones, salads, beer and wine in January at the Hackberry Market on the East Side near downtown. The dough, made from a 50-year-old bread starter that came from Italy and found its way into the hands of owner John Winkler, who is making very good use of it.

WRITER’S BIO: Kimberly A. Suta of Sutapants Productions is a local and national food writer, filmmaker, and publicist for the culinary industry. She’s also the Co-Creator of Homegrown Chef (homegrowncheftv.com), a culinary series and catering and events company featuring our city’s best chefs and delicious eats.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

PLAY

ALL NEW

THE

ULTIMATE

INDOOR

BUILD

LEGO

®

© 2019 The LEGO Group.

PLAYGROUND

FUN SAVE $3 PER PERSON

at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Located Inside the Shops at Rivercenter ®

Offer valid in person only with coupon for $3 off standard admission price to one attraction for up to six people (Max $18 Discount) at San Antonio locations. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions Apply. © 2019 The LEGO Group. CODE: RIOMAG5 EXPIRES: 12/31/2019 ME_SA_Rio May.indd 1

4/18/19 10:02 AM

FUN FOR EVERYONE!

3

A T T R A C T I O N S

ACROSS FROM THE ALAMO 210-226-2828

329 Alamo Plaza

www.AlamoPlazaAttractions.com Guinness World Records is a trademark of Guinness World Records, Ltd. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure is a registered trademark of Ripley Entertainment Inc.

$3 OFF on any combination ticket

Receive $3 off on any combination ticket, adult or child (3-11). May be used for up to 20 people. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 12/31/19. RIOMAG

FAMILY FUN

Start a holiday tradition and trip the light fantastic with the family!

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thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Dreaming of a

By Carole Miller Zoo Lights Holiday Nights

December is the time of year when the air is electric with anticipation, homes are beautifully decorated, and the fragrance of favorite foods fill the air. Here’s a brilliant idea—start a holiday tradition and trip the light fantastic with the family to get out and see the amazing light displays throughout the city.

OUT LIKE A LIGHT Among the many locations around San Antonio to feature an over-the-top light display, the perennial favorite (and most obvious) location is our world-famous River Walk. The lights are turned on each year the day after Thanksgiving and remain on from dusk to dawn daily until the first of the New Year. The lights will remain on this year through January 13.

Old West Christmas Light Fest

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Best of all, you can experience the spectacular display of more than 100,000 lights (2,250 strings of light) draped over the towering bald cypress trees that line the River Walk for free. Or make a reservation for a Holiday Lights Cruise and enjoy the views from one of three, unique Go Rio Holiday Cruises.

The Downtown Lights Cruise features hot chocolate and dessert while cruising through downtown. Sip hot chocolate during the Pearl Lights Cruise from The Pearl to the Downtown Reach and back. Or climb aboard

a Reserved Narrated Cruise.

They run every 30 minutes.

The University of the Incarnate Word gets a jump start on the season of lights in November when they flip a magic switch, and suddenly a million twinkling lights illuminate the night sky at the Light the Way celebration. The lights remain throughout the season for a breathtaking, free walking or driving experience the entire family will love. The University of the Incarnate Word is about a ten-minute drive north of downtown at 4301 Broadway Street.

When the animals tuck in for the evening, the San Antonio Zoo transforms into a wild, winter wonderland filled with a jaw-dropping array of twinkling lights. During Zoo Lights Holiday Nights, hundreds of thousands of environmentallyfriendly LED lights set to a musical soundscape, animal light sculptures, and a lighted carousel transform the San Antonio Zoo into a holiday light display like nothing you have ever seen before.

You can witness life-sized animals from the savanna, including a 15-foot tall illuminated giraffe in Starry Safari. While sipping hot cocoa, stroll under a unique display of lights, roast s’mores, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, and visit Santa. And back by popular demand is the high-energy, not your traditional Christmas light display— the Lakeside Light Show featuring pixel

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FAMILY FUN

Natural Bridge Caverns

technology combined with a custom, high-energy soundtrack that will have the whole family dancing to their favorite Christmas tunes. The San Antonio Zoo is 10 minutes from downtown.

BOERNE THIS WAY A holiday spectacular, Old West Christmas Light Fest brings the holidays to life with light displays and fun through an Old West town filled with the magic of the season, lights, live music, food, and fun. Enjoy holiday magic in a Texas setting with Santa, dazzling lights, and fun as Old West Christmas Light Fest celebrates six years of bringing holiday magic to San Antonio and the Hill Country.

Light displays surround you as you drive into a Texas ranch filled with twinkling lights and holiday fun in an Old West town brought to life. Whether it’s walking through light tunnels, visiting with Santa, saying hello to Santa’s “Holly Jolly Herd” or saving Christmas during a rousing game of holiday laser tag, Old West Christmas Light Fest is the spot to be for family fun.

click on this: CHRISTMAS LIGHT FEST Christmaslightfest.com GO RIO CRUISES Goriocruises.com NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS ci.boerne.tx.us/568/Parade-of-Lights naturalbridgecaverns.com SAN ANTONIO ZOO Sazoo.org UNIVERSITY OF THE INCARNATE WORD Lighttheway.com

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Every night features live music, with beer and wine at the bar and hot cocoa and s’ mores by the campfire. Santa is at his favorite ranch to hear holiday wishes through Christmas Eve (and photos with Santa are free). Experience the magic at Enchanted Springs Ranch, located 36 miles northwest of downtown at 242 Hwy 46 W in Boerne, Texas.

The City of Boerne Parks and Recreation Department also coordinates a Parade of Lights holiday lighting contest for residents and businesses in the Boerne city limits.

The community gets in the holiday spirit by

decorating their homes and businesses.

Participants registered and are judged on several categories, including Most Festive, Griswold Award, Best Apartment, and Reason of the Season.

A map with participants’ locations is posted on the Boerne Parks and Recreation Department website after judging takes place so you can enjoy a festive and fun drive on a winter night.

And the list of participants keeps growing as many of the groups try to outdo what they did the previous year.

CAVE INTO FUN Christmas at Natural Bridge Caverns includes many special events. Caroling in the Caverns is a breathtaking, live performance of beautiful carols in the underground chambers.

The Hidden Passages Tour and Journey to Bethlehem Show bring the nativity story to life inside the awe-inspiring hidden passages.

Go on a fun search for Santa’s lost reindeer in the AMAZEn’ Reindeer Roundup maze. Take a Country Christmas Hayride under the stars complete with s’mores and hot chocolate by the campfire. Tackle the 4-story obstacle course Canopy Challenge (or the kid-sized challenge for kids as well as Santa’s little helpers). Or stroll through Christmas Village, featuring a musical light show, shopping, refreshments, and pause for a family photo in front of the 30-foot Christmas tree.

Show and attraction availability is limited.

Advance online ticket purchase is strongly recommended.

Natural Bridge Caverns is located about 35 minutes north of San Antonio, as the reindeer flies. Take I-35 North to the FM3009 exit and follow the signs to Natural Bridge Caverns (located at 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, San Antonio 78266).

WRITER’S BIO: Carole Miller is a freelance writer in San Antonio. Her first word, according to her mother, was “light.” Her three children (Sydney, Nick, and Faith) are all quite bright, as well.

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PLAY EXPLORE STAY

DINE SERVICES MAP

VISIT US!

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BE ENTERTAINED

H A N D S – O N

Happy Holidays

By Susan Yerkes

What’s not to love about the holiday season? This Fiesta City ties holiday partying up with a big sparkly bow. From the magic of the River Walk to the country hospitality of the Hill Country, the sights and sounds of Christmas abound. For those who love to get in the middle of things, the opportunities for hands-on fun abound, too.

THE “DO” MUSEUM You don’t have to be a kid to love the fantastic creative fun of the DoSeum—you just have to be young at heart.

you are, This is your time to party like a kid again, fueled by cocktails and catered canapés.

Take the whole crew to the Dec. 3 Free Family Night, or get involved in one of the many Maker Workshops—drop-in learning-at-play programs that require no registration—in the DoSeum’s newly revamped Innovation Station.

From blocks and balls and pulleys to robots, remote-controlled little cars and trucks, and complete child-size workshops full of tools, the big colorful spaces are full of high-tech highlights that offer fun for grown-ups right along with the little ones. The Doseum’s outside is as exciting as the inside, from the enormous Big Climb to the Art Yard, Bubble Station, and the Storytelling Tree. The Sensations Studio is another big draw, where kids can play “Light DJ,” create music tracks in the Sound F/X Station or even spin a disco ball. The whole family can get in the holiday spirit in a peaceful, joyous way at the Dec. 22 Beyond Limits evening, and New Year’s Eve brings a very special Kids’ Countdown.

ALL BRICKS, NO MORTAR The brand new LEGOLAND Discovery Center in downtown’s Shops at Rivercenter offers just about every kind of holiday fun a family can enjoy.

Want to reclaim your youth? If your holiday wish list includes a chance to turn back the clock, the DoSeum’s special ReDo night Dec. 6, when the whole place is reserved for grown-ups only, is the perfect place. Dress up as your favorite movie character for the Classic Holiday Movie theme, or come as 20 RIO Magazine

It’s Bricktacular season, and LEGO Santa presides over this fantastic indoor theme park right by the fabulous River Walk. The magnificent LEGO Holiday Tree will be up all month – a Christmas tree like you’ve never seen! Take cool photos with the fantastic living LEGO Santa. Join a holiday scavenger hunt, build your own LEGO ornament or hang out at DoSeum the Elves’ Workshop, where kids from 3 to 83 can learn new tricks with the iconic bricks from Master Builders. Build a race car and run it on the test track, make like a magician with Merlin’s Apprentice, or don a pair of 4-D glasses in either of two theaters for movie fun. Check out the marvelous MINILAND San Antonio cityscape, complete with the iconic Alamo, constructed with 1.5 million miniature LEGO bricks, and all dressed up for a jolly holiday, and see what special little LEGO celebs you may find hiding there. As you exit the attraction, browse the gift shop to take home treasures. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

DoSeum

From the magic of the River Walk to the country hospitality of the Hill Country, the sights and sounds of Christmas abound.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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BE ENTERTAINED

Central Market Cooking School

COOK UP A CELEBRATION If the holidays bring on dreams of dancing sugarplums, why not learn to make the visions real in your kitchen? Central Market Cooking School offers fantastic holiday-themed cooking classes and events that keep on giving. The light, streamlined modern kitchen classroom, located upstairs from the upscale market’s bustling aisles that bubble with fun, and the sweet smells of cinnamon, sage, roasting meats, and the fragrance of baking bread.

This time of year, classes cater to the festive season. Decorate a gingerbread house with kiddos or friends, or learn to make special tamales, an ancient tradition that savvy millennials have rediscovered and are taking to new heights, from chicken verde and red chile pork to black bean and butternut. You can learn to create and share the favorite flavors of the holidays—and a few unexpected ones. Some classes are as much about celebration as culinary practice. A special Holiday Afternoon Tea Party starts with a champagne cranberry cocktail and goes on to piquillo pepper and goat cheese tarts, delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and rich desserts. Or expand your holiday horizons with Christmas Around the World class, a festive culinary tour that lets you nosh around the world while you learn to whip up a global feast. The school is the perfect setting for a cooking class, too—it’s a foodie’s dream, so block off time for a mouth-watering meander through the market before you leave.

WRITER’S BIO:

click on this: CENTRAL MARKET COOKING SCHOOL Centralmarket.com/cooking-school LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER Legoland.sanantoniodiscoverycenter.com THE DOSEUM Thedoseum.org

Susan Yerkes is an award-winning columnist and travel writer based in sunny San Antonio, where poinsettias bloom year-round and the festive season never ends.

22 22 RIO Magazine Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Zocca cuisine D’italia CONTEMPORARY ITALIAN CUISINE ON THE RIVERWALK

Join us for authentic dishes that evoke the fine flavors of Northern Italian cuisine in a warm, relaxed environment. You can dine outside on our river side patio or inside our casual, contemporary restaurant.

NEWLY RENOVATED ON THE RIVER AT THE WESTIN HOTEL 4 20 W. MARKE T ST RE E T | 2 1 0 -4 4 4 -6 0 7 0 | Z O CCA R I VER W A LK . CO M

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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GREAT FINDS

Holiday Shopping at Event-Worthy Destinations

By Dawn Robinette

Holiday Artisan Show

24

RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

SoFlo Market

WHERE THERE ARE TWINKLING LIGHTS, MUSIC, AND A FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE, SHOPPING IS TRANSFORMED INTO A FUN EXPEDITION. THAT’S WHY SHOPPING AT HOLIDAY EVENTS SHOULD BE A PART OF YOUR GAME PLAN. SCORE GREAT FINDS AT THESE FOUR FANTASTIC DECEMBER SHOPPING EVENTS WITH THE BONUS OF EXPLORING SAN ANTONIO WITH STOPS IN DOWNTOWN, SOUTHTOWN, THE WEST SIDE, AND A TASTE OF GERMANY WITH NO PASSPORT REQUIRED. ROAM, SHOP, HAVE FUN AND BRING HOME SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR HOLIDAY LIST, INCLUDING YOU.

RIVER WALK ARTISAN SHOW (DECEMBER 13-15) If you like your holiday shopping with a side of holiday lights at the prettiest venue in town, look no further than the Holiday Artisan Show on the River Walk. Nestled amongst the sparkling lights of the River Walk extension close to the Shops at River Center, the Artisan Show features hand-crafted everything from more than 40 artists. Paintings, photography, glasswork, and woodwork are waiting to be discovered, along with jewelry, clothing, soaps, and candles. There’s something for everyone on your list, and many items can be personalized onsite. Others, such as jewelry featuring tiny micro-roses hand-grown and encased lockets, rings, and pendants, are unlike anything you’ll find on your typical shopping excursions. A bonus is the person you’re buying from is the talented artisan who created what you’re taking home. Make the December artisan show a must to land great gifts that everyone will remember, and don’t forget to stroll the River Walk and take in the sights and sounds that make San Antonio a favorite holiday destination year after year.

HECHO A MANO OUTDOOR MARKET (DECEMBER 21) Another hand-crafted market that includes opportunities to chat with the artisans and learn more about their crafts is Hecho a Mano at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. Hecho a Mano has celebrated San Antonio’s culturally unique and vibrant artisan community for more than 30 years. Offering art lovers and holiday shoppers an array of fine art and handmade items by local artists, Hecho a Mano is a one-day shopping event that guarantees fun finds with San Antonio flair and local roots.

Those roots showcase the best of San Antonio’s west side, the heart of the city’s vibrant culture. The pieces you’ll fall in love with encompass both traditional and contemporary styles, all while you’re enjoying a

Hencho a Mano

Holiday Artisan Show

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GREAT FINDS Christkindlmarkt

Hecho a Mano

festive spirit of holidays, friendship, and joy in Plaza Guadalupe. Jewelry, décor, clothing and more will make your holiday shopping a breeze.

The market is the epitome of “Shop Local” and you’re sure to find hand-crafted treasures perfect for everyone on your list.

click on this: CHRISTKINDLMARKT Christkindlmarktnbtx.org HECHO A MANO OUTDOOR MARKET Guadalupeculturalarts.org/hecho-amano-copy/ RIVER WALK ARTISAN SHOW Thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events SOFLO MARKET Facebook.com/SoFloMarket

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SOFLO MARKET (DECEMBER 14) Shopping to support local entrepreneurs and artisans is also a reason to make a calendar date with SoFlo Market, a once-monthly market that fills a warehouse in San Antonio’s South Flores Arts District, “SoFlo.” Just blocks away from one of San Antonio’s hottest spots, Blue Star Contemporary Arts Center, SoFlo is an urban art and craft market that unfolds every second Saturday. Helmed by two artisans, the market is fantastic space to soak in all that makes San Antonio fabulous, with food, music, and fun shopping with handmade flair. Whether it’s concha earrings, melt-in-your-mouth cookies packaged for gifting, wreaths for every occasion or colorful and fun art crafted with old cassette tapes that pop off the wall, there is nothing standard about what you’ll discover at SoFlo. There’s something “puro San Antonio” in the air at every market, a vibe that entrances everyone who loves our city. Scoop-up fabulous holiday decorations, including beautiful, personalized wooden Christmas ornaments, or unique handcrafted jewelry that gives new meaning to the

phrase “statement piece.” And be sure to treat the top of your gift list with luxurious hand-crafted, all-natural body scrubs, candles, and soaps from award-winning In the Weeds Natural Skincare, locally produced with Texas ingredients like fresh citrus from the Rio Grande Valley. No matter what you take home, it’s guaranteed to make the recipient of your generosity smile.

CHRISTKINDLMARKT (DECEMBER 6-7) Venture north to get a taste of the area’s German roots, and no one would blame you if you thought you landed in Germany. That’s how authentic New Braunfels’ Christkindlmarkt is.

Enjoy a German-inspired open-air Christmas market complete with food, drinks, German music, singing, and dancing as vendors selling Christmas ornaments and handcrafted artisan gifts fill the space with fabulous finds. Who can resist shopping with a good German beer or warm glühwein in hand, especially when it’s this much fun? A two-day event, the market celebrates the city’s German heritage. Many of the vendors are local craftspeople, but you’ll also find ornaments and décor straight from Germany, giving your gifts an international flair. Pottery, candles, stained glass, soaps, children’s toys, clothing, jewelry, and more will greet you as you stroll the market to the sounds of German music and stop to take pictures with the Christkind and Der Weihnachtsmann, better known to us as Santa.

WRITER’S BIO An award-winning writer, communications expert, and military spouse who enjoys finding new discoveries and revisiting favorites in her adopted hometown, Dawn Robinette loves to tell stories. You can read more of her work online at Alamo City Moms and Texas Lifestyle Magazine. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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CULTURE & COMMUNITY

— ow N k oo L Don’ t

Our Cultural Diversity is Showing!

By Dan R. Goddard

Mariachi Vargas Extrravaganza

A cosmopolitan city of 1.5 million people, San Antonio has been multicultural from its earliest beginnings. The Spanish and Mexican influenc-

A 40-year tradition, the Mariachi Mass at Mission San Jose, opens the festival Dec. es are pervasive, but Germans and African Americans have made their 1. Dozens of mariachi groups and vocalists from throughout the United States herald contributions as well. And at no time during the year is the city’s diversithe holiday season Dec. 5 on the San Antonio ty more on display than during the holiday season.

River Walk. At the annual “Serenata en el Rio” at the Shops at Rivercenter lagoon, Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza participants perform seasonal favorites on a bridge next to a giant Christmas tree MARIACHI VARGAS EXTRAVAGANZA The Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza, founded in 1995, is now the largest at this free, family-friendly event. and most competitive vocal mariachi music festival in Texas. More than a dozen mariachi-related events occur during this seven-day festival, More than 1,000 mariachi musicians and directors attend the festival’s culminating in a gala concert featuring award-winning mariachi groups workshops. About 40 of the top mariachi vocalists in the nation face off and vocalists as well as the internationally renowned Mariachi Vargas in the National Mariachi Vocal Competitions ranging from elementary de Tecalitlán, considered the most important ensemble in the history to college-age, competing for the title of Grand Champion Vocalist. The of mariachi music. The concert and several other events will be held at “Super Bowl of Mariachi,” the National Mariachi Group Competitions, is considered one of the toughest mariachi competitions in the world. the Lila Cockrell Theater in downtown San Antonio.

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Wassailfest

The nation’s premier student mariachi groups go head-to-head for the chance to open at the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza finale concert Dec. 7.

WASSAILFEST IN NEW BRAUNFELS Sip warm wassail, hot apple cider whose name means “to your health,” while strolling through the streets of downtown New Braunfels to see what local merchants and non-profits offer for holiday gift-giving. During the annual Wassailfest and Community Sing-Along on the evening of Dec. 5, many local businesses will be serving wassail, hosting entertainers, competing in the Wassail Meister contest, and having open houses.

Wassail is an apple juice and spice mixture dating from the era of Robin Hood. Merchants will be competing for the top three “wassailmeisters” awards determined by popular vote.

Throughout downtown, food booths and stages will have performing groups. Besides wassail, which is available “loaded” with alcohol or warm wine, you’ll find plenty of Texas craft beers.

More than 100,000 lights turn the city’s Plaza, which features an old-timey bandstand, into a fairytale setting, perfect for singing the centuries-old Christmas carol “Here We Go A-Wassailing.” Entertainment can range from Scottish bagpipes to puppet shows and will almost certainly include bell choirs, barbershop quartets, children’s chorales, dancers, mariachis, and oompah bands. Go early to beat the crowds. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

KWANZAA MARKET FESTIVAL Celebrating the 10th anniversary, the Kwanzaa Market Festival Dec. 14 is inspired by the holiday created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 to honor African American people, culture, and history. He drew inspiration from the “first fruit” or harvest festivals celebrated throughout Africa. “Kwanzaa” comes from the Kiswahili phrase for “first fruit.” Dr. Karenga developed the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, including unity, self-determination, creativity, and faith.

Held at the Second Baptist Church Community Center on the East Side, the Kwanzaa Market Festival is a free, family-friendly event with black businesses and black entrepreneurs offering culturally enriching products, books, jewelry, art, handmade goods, items for Kwanzaa celebration, African-inspired clothing and accessories. Entertainment includes drumming, poetry, and Kwanzaa storytelling along with games and crafts for the entire family. Also, it’s a chance to learn more about the Kwanzaa holiday, celebrated Dec. 26-Jan. 1.

The East Side’s Carver Community Cultural Center presents Ranky Tanky, a group from Charleston that plays Gullah music, on Dec. 6. Originating among the African Americans living in the low country region of South Carolina, Gullah is a creole language and culture.

“Gullah” comes

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CULTURE & COMMUNITY

click on this: KWANZAA MARKET FESTIVAL Kwanzaasa.com LILA COCKRELL THEATER Sahbgcc.com/Facilities/ Lila-Cockrell-Theatre MARIACHI VARGAS EXTRAVAGANZA Mariachimusic.com MISSION SAN JOSE CHURCH Missionsanjosechurch.org SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK Nps.gov/saan/index.htm SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK Thesanantonioriverwalk.com SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH COMMUNITY CENTER Secondbaptistsat.org SHOPS AT RIVERCENTER Shoprivercenter.com WASSAILFEST IN NEW BRAUNFELS Nbtexas.org/1845/Wassailfest Ranky Tank San José Mission and Church

from the West African language and means “a people blessed by God.” “Ranky Tanky” translates loosely as “work it” or “get funky!”

Ranky Tanky’s eponymous 2017 debut album went to No. 1 on the Billboard, iTunes and, Amazon jazz charts. The group features singer Quiana Parler, singer/guitarist Clay Ross, trumpeter/singer Charlton Singleton, bassist Kevin Hamilton, and drummer Quentin Baxter.

Gullah music ranges from playful game songs to ecstatic shouts and from heartbreaking spirituals to delicate lullabies.

SAN JOSÉ MISSION AND CHURCH The “Queen of the Missions” in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Mission San José was founded in 1720 by Father Antonio Margil de Jesus, a prominent Franciscan

San José Mission and Church

missionary in early Texas, and named for Saint Joseph and the Marqués de San Miguel de Aguayo, the governor of the Province of Coahuila and Texas at the time. But the old mission is no ruin. Still an active parish, visitors are welcome to attend mass on Sundays at San José.

The Christmas season is celebrated by special performances and services. A community reenactment of “Las Posada,” the story of Christ’s birth, will be performed at 6 p.m. Dec. 16 on the parish grounds. A bilingual Midnight Mass will be held on Christmas Eve. The 10 a.m. mass on Christmas Day features a bilingual “The Nativity of the Lord,” and a bilingual 10 a.m. mass on New Year’s Day is dedicated to the “Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.”

WRITER’S BIO Dan R. Goddard is a longtime San Antonio arts writer who thinks the city’s diversity is what makes it the most interesting place in Texas.

30 RIO Magazine thesanantonioriverwalk.com

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas The trees are draped in colorful lights and carolers’ songs and laughter fill the air. It’s such a wonderful time of year to gather your family and friends and join in on the cheer! Enjoy one of three GO RIO Holiday Lights Cruises* – where San Antonio’s winter wonderland comes to life.

Skip the line and buy your tickets online at

GoRioCruises.com PEARL LIGHTS CRUISE DOWNTOWN LIGHTS CRUISE RESERVED HOLIDAY NARRATED CRUISE

*All Holiday Lights Cruises require a reservation

RECREATION

Go, Team Go!

By Drew Henry

San Antonio is home to a lot of fan favorites, and we’re not just talking about tacos! This city has a spirit that carries from the streets and the ice to the Alamodome and the AT&T Center, with amazing teams, games, and competitions to choose from. Grab your jerseys and foam fingers, because we are off to score some touchdowns, cross the finish line, make some free throws, and shred it on the ice!

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SPURS GAME If there is one thing to know about San Antonio sports, it is that we love our Spurs! The Spurs play at the AT&T Center, which is a short 10-minute drive East of downtown. You can expect every game to be high spirited and fast-paced. This month you can enjoy the Flashback Friday game on December 6th, where you can see the Spurs in their original colors and expect some throwback tunes. You can also catch the holiday game on December 21st, which is sure to be filled with tons of holiday fun. Other specials include ticket & two beers night, where, you guessed it, you get two beers with your admission. When you’re at the game, make sure to try and get your picture with the Coyote! Go Spurs, go!

GAME SCHEDULE:

Thursday, December 19th - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. Brooklyn Nets

Tuesday, December 3rd - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. Houston Rockets

Saturday, December 21st - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. LA Clippers

Friday, December 6th - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. Sacramento Kings

Saturday, December 28th - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. Detroit Pistons

Thursday, December 12th - 7:30 p.m. - Spurs vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Tuesday, December 31st - 6:00 p.m. - Spurs vs. Golden State Warriors

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

click on this: ALL-AMERICAN BOWL Allamericangames.com/bowl

SAN ANTONIO RAMPAGE Sarampage.com

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MARATHON Runrocknroll.com/san-antonio

VALERO ALAMO BOWL Alamobowl.com

SAN ANTONIO SPURS Nba.com/spurs

VALERO ALAMO BOWL Tuesday, December 31st, 6:30 p.m.

There’s more to the holidays in San Antonio than lights and tamales.

There’s also the spirit of sports! Since the first game in 1993, the Valero Alamo Bowl has created excitement in San Antonio that rings in the New Year with thrilling games in front of crowds from across the nation. The Valero Alamo Bowl showcases two of the premier conferences in the country, featuring the #1 Pac-12 team against the #1 Big 12 team after the College Football Playoff selections. The game takes place at the Alamodome, located on the eastside fringe of downtown. In addition to game day fun, there are plenty of pre-game events, like Rudy’s Bar-B-Q Pep Rally on Sunday, December 29th at 5:00 P.M. at the Arneson River Theatre.

This must-see event gives fans a chance to see the players and bands as they make their grand entrance on San Antonio’s famous riverboats. It’s also the chance to hear which fans can cheer the loudest!

ALL-AMERICAN BOWL Saturday, January 4th, 2020, 12:00 p.m.

If Friday Night Lights is more your style, then mark your calendar for the greatest high school football game in the country. With over 19 years as the country’s premier high school sporting event, the AllAmerican Bowl annually features the top 100 senior football stars in a game of epic proportions. The bowl introduces some of the sport’s most gifted players and has brought you more than 410 draft picks, 57 Super Bowl champions, and 16 Heisman finalists, including players like Tim Tebow, Andrew Luck, and more. This game takes place at the Alamodome.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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RECREATION ROCK ‘N’ ROLL MARATHON If you prefer to participate instead of watching the fun for a good cause, the Humana Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon is for you.

This weekend is full of not only runs but health fitness expos and live performances. The courses primarily run through downtown, the Broadway corridor, as well as Tobin Hill and the East Side. Funds from the race support child cancer research at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. When running the course, you will pass some of the best music performances in the city. You can leave those headphones at home! Music performances pepper the course and set the pace for the runners and start the party for the spectators. Bands range from alternative and rock to blues and jazz, and country music star and San Antonio native Mike Ryan will headline the festivities.

HEALTH FITNESS EXPO: Friday, December 6th - Saturday, December 7th Saturday, December 7th • 10K and 5K • Subway KIDS ROCK Powered by San Antonio Sports

Sunday, December 8th • Marathon and Half Marathon • Two Person Relay

RAMPAGE GAME Now, we bet you didn’t think San Antonio can also shred it on the ice! We rarely see snow in this part of Texas, but our hockey team comes in hot. To get a taste of the ice this winter, you will want to check out a Rampage hockey game. The team also plays at the AT&T Center. This month you can partake in Ugly Sweater Weekend on December 13th and 14th and wear your ugliest holiday sweater to compete for prizes. You can also watch as the Rampage assumes their alter ego on December 27th and becomes Los Chimuelos or the men with missing teeth in Spanish.

This is a San Antonio staple and a must-see game! Also, make sure to catch $1 beer night at every Friday home game.

WRITER’S BIO Drew Henry is the founder of the Design Dudes blog. During the week, he’s blogging about the coolest style, and on the weekends he is getting active! Instagram: @design_dudes, Facebook: @designdudeslife, Twitter: @designdudeslife, Web: designdudeslife.com

GAME SCHEDULE: Sunday, December 1st - 3:00 p.m. - Rampage vs. Iowa Wild

Saturday, December 14th - 7:00 p.m. - Rampage vs. Manitoba Moose

Wednesday, December 4th - 10:30 a.m. - Rampage vs. Iowa Wild

Friday, December 27th - 7:00 p.m. - Rampage vs. Texas Stars

Friday, December 13th - 7:00 p.m. - Rampage vs. Tucson Roadrunners

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artist in residence

THE DOSEUM PRESENTS

MAKING SCENTS OF OUTER SPACE

AMADA MILLER AND

BIRDING THE DOSEUM

MARK MENJIVAR

NOVEMBER 21- JANUARY 12 T HAN KS TO OU R GEN ERO U S PART N ERS Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundatation © THE DOSEUM 2019, IS A 501(C)(3) NON-PROFIT thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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24 48 72 HOURS

by Crystal Henry

on Day one. . .

Naeglin's Bakery

WAKE & BAKE The holidays are about tradition, so step one is breakfast at Naeglin’s Bakery, a New Braunfels tradition that’s been around since the 1800s.

A smiling gingerbread man beckons visitors inside to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread. If your tooth is sweet try an old fashioned cinnamon roll. If you’re more of a savory, spice up your morning with a jalapeño sausage

24

Nutcracker Performances DAY 1

Santa's Ranch

MAKE IT RAIN If someone you know slid off the naughty list at the last minute, San Marcos is the place to find a quick gift. The Tanger and Prime Outlets provide Shop The Tanger a shopping experience the size of and Prime Outlets a small town, and the stores have a sort of ombre effect fading from lower-end to higher-end shops. Don’t let the distance deter you from snagging a stand mixer or two Coach bags. Just catch the trolley to travel from one end of the lot to the other.

SHE’S MY APPLE PIE Get inspired by the mountain of packages in the trunk, and try dinner at Alpine Haus. With every schnitzel in the book and gravy-laden masterpieces, it’s the perfect spot for a hearty winter meal. And since pumpkin pie is so last month, move on into the holidays with a warm apple strudel.

DEC. 1 & 6-8 Tobin Center for Performing Arts The Nutcracker Ballet San Antonio DEC. 5 Majestic Theater The Hip Hop Nutcracker With MC Curtis Blow DEC. 13-15 Scottish Rite Auditorium The Nutcracker San Antonio Youth Ballet DEC. 19-22 Lila Cockrell Theater The Nutcracker with the American Midwest Ballet ARTS San Antonio DEC. 26-27 Majestic Theater Great Russian Nutcracker Moscow Ballet

YEE-HAW Wrangle a good ol’ fashioned Texas Christmas with a drive through Santa’s Ranch. Look for the big 50-foot Christmas tree, 1.5 million lights, and the cars full of families, and you’ve found the right place. Keep in mind that this journey is the destination, so don’t be in a rush. Get your pass at the gate, stop by concessions for a cup of cocoa and some roasted pecans, and crank the holiday tunes. Sing-a-longs are encouraged.

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Getting in the holiday spirit is as easy as counting to three. Follow our three, one-day itineraries of holiday activities or mix-and-match to create your personalized special day of Christmas memories.

48 on Day two. . .

Garcia Art Glass

Magnolia Pancake Haus

BLOW & GO If your halls are not fully-decked, add glow to your decor with a hand-made ornament from Garcia Art Glass. Book a glass blowing demo and a studio tour on Friday or Saturday to watch the magic happen. During y o u r one-hour tour you’ll get a history of the company, and a peek inside the hot shop. Try the make-your-own ornament class on December 14. Last-minute gift tip: Garcia will also have a huge tent sale that day with 30 to 70 percent off a large selection of pieces.

SON OF A NUTCRACKER Russian Doll was hot on Netflix this year, but the Russian ballet is in town with toy soldiers for just one of the many Nutcracker performances in the city this season. If you’re a Nutcracker superfan, try attending performances at the Majestic, the Tobin, Scottish Rite Theater, and Lila Cockrell Theater. Or get tickets to the Nutcracker Tea Party hosted by the San Antonio Youth Ballet on Dec. 8 at The Guenther House.

The Geunther House

GUY’S CHOICE San Antonio has plenty of bragworthy spots, but in 2011, Guy Fieri honed in on Magnolia Pancake Haus. This pancake haven is stacked with customers jonesing for a syrupy fix.

But while the flapjacks get the spotlight, don’t miss the cinnamon raisin French toast. But if you’d like a dessert-like Oma use to make, get the apfel pfannekuchen. This spiced puff pancake with Granny Smith apples and whipped cream is made to order - the 10-minute wait builds anticipation and heightens the full experience. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

SWEET STROLL After the ballet, take a walk downtown to Kilwins San Antonio for some sweet therapy. The drizzling caramel and chocolate being paddle churned on marble tables is mesmerizing. Shop for gifts, and treat yourself to something for the road.

STOGIE CLAUS Enjoy a semi-silent night with frontrow seats on the river. On the Bend Oyster Bar and Lounge has a groovy vibe, hand-crafted cocktails, and is a people-watching paradise. Order an oyster shooter, and kick back with a smooth cigar and even smoother live jazz music on Saturday nights.

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La Gran Tamalada

Mi Tierra Cafe and Baker

72

on day three. . .

DAY 3

WE’RE ALL MAD HERE If you’ve ever fallen down the Facebook rabbit hole, you probably need to detox with a fishbowl of mimosas from Mad Hatters Tea House and Cafe. On weekends, this tea house features a whimsical brunch with Disappearing Eggs Benedict, bacon artichoke lollipops, and a tea party for two. If you desire a weekday pick-me-up, try a Yerba Mate Latte and a Mad Spinach Burrito.

TAMALADA Tamales in San Antonio are probably the best sign that the holidays have arrived. On December 14, La Familia Cortez and the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center will host a city-wide family gathering at Historic Market Square for La Gran Tamalada. You can learn to make the most coveted holiday food of all with hands-on workshops, or take the easy way out and buy a freezer-full to get you through the winter at one of the vendor booths.

The kids can enjoy stories, lotería and corn husk doll decorating. But don’t leave without a photo with Pancho Claus.

HOLIDAY SPIRIT Once you get your fill of masa in Market Square, stop in for lunch or dinner at Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery. It’s Christmas year-round inside this brightly colored San Antonio staple. If you fill up on enchiladas, come back later for a treat from the bakery in front. They’re open round-theclock, and the candied sweet potato is tops.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Crystal Henry is a loyal Texan, and an award-winning author, writer and columnist. She is fluent in both sarcasm and English, and evidence of those bilingual writing talents can be found at crystalhenrywrites.com. Or follow her on FB + IG @crystalhenrywrites and on Twitter @chenrywrites.

click on this:

Kilwins

38 RIO Magazine

ALPINE HAUS Alpine-haus.com

MAD HATTERS TEA HOUSE & CAFE Madhatterstea.com

NAEGLIN’S BAKERY Naegelins.com

GARCIA ART GLASS Garciaartglass.com

MAGNOLIA PANCAKE HAUSE Magnoliapancakehaus.com

ON THE BEND Onthebendsa.com

KILWINS Kilwins.com

MI TIERRA Mitierracafe.com

SANTA’S RANCH Santasranch.net

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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SAN ANTONIO FOOD & DRINK AMERICAN BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO 421 East Commerce St. boudros.com p44, 16

SALTGRASS STEAK HOUSE 502 River Walk saltgrass.com p44,53 53

BIGA ON THE BANKS 203 S. St. Mary’s Street biga.com

TEX’S RIVER WALK AND SPORTS BAR 200 S. Alamo texssportsbar.com p44, 27

BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO. 406 Navarro bubbagump.com CHILI’S ON THE RIVERWALK 849 East Commerce St. Chilis.com DAVE & BUSTER’S 849 E. Commerce St. daveandbusters.com DICK’S LAST RESORT 223 Losoya St. dickslastresort.com p44, 18 EL TROPICANO HOTEL 110 Lexington Avenue. eltropicanohotel.com HARD ROCK CAFÉ 111 W Crockett St #210 hardrock.com HOWL AT THE MOON 111 West Crockett St. #201 howlatthemoon.com IHOP 849 E. Commerce 210-444-1201 JAZZ, TX 312 Pearl Parkway #6001 JazzTX.com LAS CANARIAS 112 College Street omnihotels.com

BBQ COUNTY LINE BARBEQUE SPORTS BAR 111 W. Crockett St. countyline.com BBQ - p44, 7 BRAZILIAN FOGO DE CHAO 849 E. Commerce St. fogodechao.com TEXAS DE BRAZIL 313 E. Houston St. texasdebrazil.com BRITISH MAD DOGS 123 Losoya St. maddogs.net p44, 11 DELI SCHILO’S 424 E. Commerce St. schilos.com p50, 26 GERMAN BIER GARTEN 124-150 Losoya St. alamobiergarten.com p44, 36 ICE CREAM JUSTIN’S ICE CREAM 245 E Commerce St. mercadoritas.com

KILWINS 109 Alamo Plaza Kilwins.com STEEL CITY POPS 812 S. Alamo, Suite 101 steelcitypops.com IRISH DURTY NELLY’S IRISH PUB 200 S. Alamo St. durtynellyspub.com p44, 80 ITALIAN FIG TREE 515 Villita dine.figtreerestaurant.com GUILLERMO’S 618 McCullough St. guillermosdowntown.com LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE 231 S. Alamo St. dine.littlerheinsteakhouse.com MICHELINO’S 521 Riverwalk michelinos.us.

PAESANOS 111 W. Crockett #100 www.paesanosriverwalk.com p44, 54 PIZZARITAS 245 E. Commerce pizzaritas.com

SEAFOOD CHART HOUSE Tower of the Americas, 739 East Cesar E. Chavez toweroftheamericas.com JOE’S CRAB SHACK 212 College Street Ste 10 joescrabshack.com LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE 517 N. Presa landrysseafood.com ON THE BEND 123 Losoya St. onthebendsa.com p44, 96 TEX-MEX CAFÉ OLE 430 E. Commerce St. cafeole.us CASA RIO 430 E. Commerce St. casa-rio.com p44, 61 IRON CACTUS 200 River Walk ironcactus.com p44, 4 THE ORIGINAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT 528 River Walk originalmexican.com p44, 14

ZOCCA 420 W. Market zoccariverwalk.com

RIO RIO CANTINA 421 E. Commerce St. rioriocantina.com p44, 13

MEXICAN ACENAR 146 E. Houston acenar.com p44, 2

RITA’S ON THE RIVER 245 E. Commerce, Suite 100 ritasontheriver.com

LONESTAR CAFE 237 Losoya lonestarcafe.us MARGARITAVILLE 849 E. Commerce St. margaritavillesanantonio.com

Biergarten

RAINFOREST CAFÉ 110 E. Crockett rainforestcafe.com p44, 17 RUTH CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 600 E. Market St. ruthschris.com THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS 526 Riverwalk therepublicoftexasrestaurant.com THE RIVER’S EDGE CAFÉ AND PATIO BAR 200 S. Alamo St. riversedgecafesa.com

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12/31/19

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 12/5-22 @6:00 p.m.

Ford Holiday Boat Caroling Listen to carolers singing on boats that slowly wind through the downtown section of the River Walk. Sit outdoors on a balcony or patio to enjoy the music while dining. Celebrate the timeless tradition of caroling with a San Antonio twist. Map and times on TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com

River Walk

SPECIAL EVENTS & FESTIVALS

12/29 @ 5 p.m.

Rudy’s Bar-B-Q Pep Rally on the River River Walk

12/18 @ 6:30 p.m.

Posada at Pearl The Pearl

12/2 @ 7:30 p.m.

John Leguizamo’s Latin History for Morons Majestic Theatre

River Walk

12/5, 12 & 19 @ 4 p.m.

Holiday Night Market The Pearl 12/6-8 Ford Fiesta de las Luminarias Experience the holiday serenity of the River Walk as you stroll along the lush banks of the San Antonio River guided by more than 2,000 Luminarias at night.

River Walk 12/7 @ 7:30 p.m.

25th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Lila Cockrell Theatre 12/13-15 @ 11 a.m.

Holiday Artisan Show River Walk

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FAMILY FUN

Through 12/22 Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Santa Express Christmas Village Traders Village 12/4 @ 10 a.m.

Playdates: Festivals and Celebrations San Antonio Museum of Art 12/7 Disney Junior Holiday Party!

Majestic Theatre

12/1 @ 7 p.m.

Martina McBride The Joy of Christmas Tour Majestic Theatre 12/7 @ 7 p.m.

Luke Combs Beer Never Broke My Heart Tour AT&T Center

12/1 @ 7 p.m.

The Doo Wop Project Charline McCombs Empire Theatre 12/5 @ 7:30 p.m.

The Hip-Hop Nutcracker Majestic Theatre

12/11 @ 7:30 p.m.

Andrea Bocelli AT&T Center

12/26-27 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Majestic Theatre

12/21 @ 8 p.m.

Joe Ely Sam’s Burger Joint and Music Hall

12/28 @ 7 p.m.

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Musical Majestic Theatre

12/23 @ 3:30 p.m.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Christmas Eve and Other Stories AT&T Center

12/30 @ 9 a.m.

Spurs Fundamental Basketball Camps AT&T Center

Through 12/15 Las Nuevas Tamaleras Our Lady of the Lake University

12/9 @ 7:30 p.m.

Criss Angel RAW: The Mindfreak Unplugged Majestic Theatre

12/21 @ 10 a.m.

Monthly Farmers and Artisans Market Mission Marquee Plaza

12/29 @ Sunset Hanukkah Celebration SeaWorld San Antonio

PERFORMING ARTS

12/8 @ 3 p.m.

San Antonio Liederkranz Christmas Concert Alzafar Shrine

12/20 @ 8 p.m.

Grupo Fantasma with special guest Nemagata Sam’s Burger Joint and Music Hall

12/6 Jerry Seinfeld Live Majestic Theatre 12/8 @ 8 p.m.

Jonathan Van Ness: Road to Beijing Majestic Theatre

MUSIC

12/14 @ 8 p.m.

Ladies Sing the Blues Carver Community Cultural Center

COMEDY

Through 1/13 @5:30 p.m.

Holiday Lights on the River Walk Bask under the glow of 100,000 lights on the River Walk. Turned on each year the day after Thanksgiving, the lights are on daily from dusk to dawn through January 13.

Through 1/5 Holiday in the Park Six Flags Fiesta Texas

12/26 @ 8 p.m. SatisfactionThe International Rolling Stones Show Sam’s Burger Joint and Music Hall

12/29-30 @ 7:30 p.m.

The Color Purple Majestic Theatre

SPORTS

12/1 @ 3 p.m.

San Antonio Rampage vs. Iowa Wild Sunday Funday AT&T Cente

12/7-8 Crab Fest 2019 Crab Fest at Traders Village is the ultimate way to celebrate Crab in all it’s glory. Join the fun with great live music and a visit to the train station to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Come for the shopping and stay for the fun.

Traders Village

12/9 @ 10 a.m.

Little Sprouts: Let’s Get Ready for Winter!

San Antonio Botanical Garden 12/12-15 The Majik Theatre presents: A Charlie Brown Christmas Charline McCombs Empire Theatre 12/14 @ 1 p.m.

Art Family Saturday Blue Star Contemporary Art Center

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

12/17 @ 7:30 p.m.

Cher

Through 1/12 Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids Witte Museum

AT&T Center

Through 2/2 The Filipino Texans UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures 12/13 - 4/5 Re-Devaluing Colorism: Intersections of Skin Color and Currency Southwest School of Art Through 6/21 Fertility, Blessings and Protection: Cultures of Baby Carriers UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures

12/2 @ 9 a.m.

Camp Gladiator Workouts San Antonio Botanical Garden 12/3 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Houston Rockets AT&T Center 12/4 @ 10:30 a.m.

San Antonio Rampage vs.

Iowa Wild AT&T Center 12/6 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Sacramento Kings AT&T Center 12/12 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Cleveland Cavaliers AT&T Center 12/13 @ 7 p.m.

San Antonio Rampage vs.

Tucson Roadrunners Bud Light $1 Drink Night AT&T Center 12/14 @ 7 p.m.

San Antonio Rampage vs.

Manitoba Moose AT&T Center 12/19 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Brooklyn Nets AT&T Center 12/21 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs. Los Angeles Clippers AT&T Center

12/27 @ 7 p.m.

San Antonio Rampage vs. Texas Stars Bud Light $1 Drink Night AT&T Center 12/28 @ 7:30 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Detroit Pistons AT&T Center 12/31 @ 6 p.m.

San Antonio Spurs vs.

Golden State Warriors AT&T Center 12/31 @ 6:30 p.m.

Valero Alamo Bowl Alamodome

VISUAL ARTS

12/13 @ 6 p.m.

Art Party: ÂĄSalud! Sante!

Cheers!

San Antonio Museum of Art Through 12/29 Picasso to Hockney: Modern Art on Stage McNay Museum of Art

Through 12/8 Painting for Performance McNay Museum of Art

Through 1/5 Healthy Machines Blue Star Contemporary Art Center Through 1/5 Formal Proof Blue Star Contemporary Art Center Through 1/5 Aliento a Tequila UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures 12/17-22 Dear Evan Hansen A letter that was never meant to be seen, a lie that was never meant to be told, a life he never dreamed he could have.

Evan Hansen is about to get the one thing he’s always wanted: a chance to finally fit in. Dear Evan Hansen, winner of six Tony awards including best musical and the 2018 Grammy award for best musical theater album, is the deeply personal and profoundly contemporary musical about life and the way we live it. Majestic Theatre

RIO Magazine

43

SHOPPING ALAMO PLAZA SHIRTS 325 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-223-2347 ALAMO QUARRY MARKET 255 East Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-8885 www.quarrymarket.com

THE ALLEY ON BITTERS 555 W. Bitters Rd. San Antonio, TX 78206 (210) 494-3226 www.TheAlleyOnBitters.com ANGELITA’S Building 2, 418 Villita St. angelitaboutique.webs.com ART PACE 445 N Main Ave artpace.org BATTLE FOR TEXAS 849 E. Commerce battlefortexas.com B&C LEATHER ACCESSORIES & UNIQUE FINDS 418 Villita St #24 San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 464-1126 BONITA RITA’S 245 E. Commerce, #100 San Antonio, TX 78205 mercadoritas.com BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM 210 W. Market Street briscoemuseum.org BUCKHORN MUSEUM 318 E Houston St. buckhornmuseum.com CASA SALAZAR 216 E. Houston San Antonio, 78205 210-472-2272 themajestic.com/casa THE COLLECTION 7959 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-3130 thecollectionsanantonio.com DEL SOL OF SAN ANTONIO 321 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-231-0900 www.delsol.com DOSEUM 2800 Broadway St. thedoseum.org EL MERCADO 514 W. Commerce San Antonio, TX 78207 210-207-8600 www.sanantonio.gov/marketsquare 44 RIO Magazine

FIESTA ON MAIN 2025 North Main Avenue San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 738-1188 www.alamofiesta.com Mexican cultural gifts, pinatas THE FIESTA STORE 2611 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78215 210-227-5191 www.fiesta-sa.org FIVE & DIME GENERAL STORE 101 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-233-0166 fiveanddimegs.com GALLERY VETRO CREATIVE ARTGLASS 250 E. Houston San Antonio, TX 78205 210-354-0001 GARCIA ART GLASS 715 South Alamo San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 223-1400 www.garciaartglass

MERCADORITA’S 245 E. Commerce & Bonita San Antonio, TX 78205 210-286-7432 NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road naturalbridgecaverns.com NORTH STAR MALL 7400 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 340-6627 www.northstarmall.com PARIS HATTERS 119 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78205 210-223-3453 www.parishatters.com PENNERS DOWNTOWN 311 W. Commerce San Antonio, TX 78205 210-226-2487 www.pennersinc.com RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT 301 Alamo Plaza ripleys.com/sanantonio

COWBOY’S ALAMO CITY HARLEYDAVIDSON RIVERWALK BOUTIQUE RIVERWALK BOUTIQUE 111 West Crockett St. Suite 209 cowboysalamocityharley.com

SAN ANGEL FOLK ART 110 Blue Star San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 226-6688 www.sanangelfolkart.com

HUEBNER OAKS 11745 IH 10 West San Antonio, TX 78230 shophuebneroaks.com

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART 200 West Jones Avenue samuseum.org

KATHLEEN SOMMERS 2417 North Main San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 732-8437 kathleensommers.com KENDRA SCOTT 310 East Basse Rd. #101 San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 591-7180 www.kendrascott.com LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE 418 Villita Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 210-207-8614 www.lavillita.com LOS PATIOS 2015 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 655-6171 www.lospatios.com LUCCHESE BOOT COMPANY 255 East Basse Rd #800 San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-9419 www.lucchese.com

SAN ANTONIO VISITORS CENTER 317 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-207-6871 www.visitsan antonio.com SHOPS OF LA CANTERA 15900 La Cantera Pkwy San Antonio, TX 78256 (210) 582-6255 theshopsatlacantera.com SHOPS AT RIVER CENTER 849 E. Commerce shoprivercenter.com 77T’S SOUVENIRS & T-SHIRTS 207 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205 210-549-1279 www.77tshirts.com TEXAS ACCENT GENERAL STORE 803 S. Zarzamora San Antonio, TX 78207 210-435-2446

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TIENDA LA GARZA 110 Broadway, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 222-2133 TPJ GIFT SHOP 849 E. Commerce #673 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-212-9066 THE TWIG BOOK SHOP 306 Pearl Parkway #106 San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 826-6411 thetwig.indiebound.com THE UNOFFICIAL BEST OF TEXAS 101 Alamo Plaza, #3 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-227-0242 VILLA TESOROS 418 Villita St - Bldg. 8 San Antonio, Texas 78205 (210) 724-8521, (210) 464-1126 THE VINEYARD 1207 North Loop 1604 W San Antonio, TX 78258 thevineyardshoppingcenter.com WYNDHAM SAN ANTONIO RIVERWALK 111 E. Pecan Street San Antonio, TX 78205 210-489-9768 www.sawyn.com THE WESTIN RIVERWALK 420 W. Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205 210-413-9731 www.westin.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine

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17 Madhatters Tea House & Café 19 La Focaccia

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16 Edward Steves Homestead Museum

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10 Minnie’s Tavern Rye House

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67 Biga on the Banksn

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41 Embassy Suites 42 Sheraton Gunter Hotel 43 The St. Anthony Hotel 44 Marriott Townplace 45 Hotel Valencia 46 Holiday Inn 47 Marriott Courtyard 48 Drury Inn NA VAPlaza 49 Drury RRO Hotel ST. 50 Omni La Mansion

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78 Freedom Torch 79 Cowboy’s Alamo Harley Davidson 84 Tobin Center

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18 Dick’s NHLast Resort

17 Rainforest Cafe

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13 Rio Rio Cantina

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37 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

57 Briscoe Western Art Museum

12 Rita’s on the Riverta’s

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38 Angelita

11 Mad Dogs British Pub

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38 Plaza Taxco

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36 The Improv at Rivercenter 38 La Villita Historic Arts Village

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4 Iron Cactus Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar

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55 Westin Riverwalk 58 Hilton Palacio Del Rio 60 Wyndham River Walk 64 Menger Hotel 82 Grand Hyatt 86 Hotel Contessa

ATTRACTIONS & SHOPPING

3 Bella On The River

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RESTAURANTS

2 Acénar

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LOCATIONS LISTING

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A portion of the ticket sales benefit the San Antonio Food Bank

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Share your pics and join the conversation use #DowntownSATX. Brought to you by Centro San Antonio

LOCATIONS LISTING

RESTAURANTS

11 Art Pace

42 Spanish Governor’s Palace

1 Ristorante Pico de Gallo

13 San Antonio Museum of Art

48 Alta Vista Skate Shop

3 Mi Tierra Cafe Y Panaderia

14 Institute of Texan Culture

52 Tresor

4 La Margarita Mexican

18 Yasmin’s Boutique

Restaurant & Oyster Bar

19 Out West

5 Denny’s

21 Tienda La Garza

18 Francesco’s Gelato

22 The Amazing Mirror Maze

20 Pat O’Brien’s

23 San Antonio General Store

36 Augies Alamo City BBQ Steakhouse

25 Majestic Theatre

44 Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen River Walk Downtown

29 Aztec Theatre

51 Biga on the Banks

53 Guillermo’s

30 Ripley’s Haunted Adventure/ Tomb Rider 3D

31 Guiness World Records

54 Jazz Texas 55 IHOP ATTRACTIONS & SHOPPING

15 Crockett Hotel 16 Sheraton Gunter Hotel 17 Menger Hotel 24 El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel 43 Marriott Plaza San Antonio MISCELLANEOUS 34 CitySightseeing Double Decker

32 Ripley’s Believe it or Not/

Tour

Louis Tussaud’s Wax Works

33 The Alamo

37 Tom’s Wheelchair & Scooter Rentals

6 Paris Hatters

35 Tobin Center

7 Buckhorn Saloon & Museum

38 USO

38 Angelita’s

8 The Pearl

68 Scooter Power Tours

39 Plaza Taxco

9 Shops at RiverCenter

40 VFW Post 76

10 Tower of the Americas/

41 Market Square

Chart House Restaurant

69 San Antonio Public Library

+

NIX Hospital

St.

© 2019 DFO, LLC. Printed in the U.S.A. At participating restaurants for a limited time only. Selection and prices may vary. While supplies last.

E. Com merce St.

Bowie

HOTELS 12 Wyndham Garden River Walk

Museum

E. Mark

et St.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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RIO Magazine

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Chef-Inspired Burgerteca BURGERTECA IS THE FIRST CHEF-INSPIRED, OWNED, AND OPERATED BURGER RESTAURANT IN SAN ANTONIO; A DINING EXPERIENCE BUILT AROUND AMERICA’S MOST WIDELY CONSUMED FOOD ITEM-THE HAMBURGER. Burgerteca transforms this piece of Americana and showcases Mexico’s interior in a creative and fun environment - serving burgers that capture interior Mexico by use of indigenous ingredients, distinct styles, and regional iconic and celebratory dishes.

Burgerteca prides itself on a commitment to fresh, vibrant, quality dishes, all while preserving traditional Mexican ingredients.

Located at 403 Blue Star, in downtown San Antonio, directly on the River Walk’s Mission Reach, the eight-mile stretch that provides visitors with a historical view of San Antonio, including its UNESCO World Heritage Missions. Burgerteca is the perfect place to pop in after a run or outdoor activity as it is situated on the banks of the San Antonio River’s linear park, next to walking and biking trails plus kayaking routes.

54 RIO Magazine

Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m Sunday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Happy Hour, Monday – Thursday, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Holiday Boat Caroling

December 5th, 2019 – December 22nd, 2019

Sing in the holidays by caroling with friends and family from a boat on the River Walk. Celebrate the timeless tradition of spreading joy with a San Antonio twist. Charter a private caroling boat and bask in the glow of 100,000 Christmas lights.

Weekdays - $125/Weekends - $150/Up to 20 per boat

Register now at TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com/Events

LA VILLITA LA VILLITA 418 Villita Street San Antonio, TX 78205 210-207-8614 www.lavillita.com Collection of Unique Local Shops - p44 38 ANGELITA La Villita - Bldg. 2 San Antonio, TX 78205 210- 224-8362 www.lavillita.com Womens Fashions & Jewelry p44 38 CASA MANOS ALEGRES La Villita - Bldg. 6 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-313-7293 www.lavillita.com Mexican Cultural Gift p44 38 COPPER GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 11 San Antonio, TX 78205 210.271.3856 www.thecoppergallery.com Art Collectibles - p44 38 EQUINOX GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 4 San Antonio, Texas 78205 www.alejandrosifuentes.com 210-281-0706 Jewelry Metal Gallery p44 38

LITTLE STUDIO GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 23 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-227-8893 www.lavillita.com Art Gallery - p44 38 PLAZA TAXCO La Villita, Bldg.16B San Antonio, TX 78205 210-994-5259 www.plazataxco.com - p44 38 RIVER ART GROUP La Villita - Bldg. 14 San Antonio, TX 78205 210-226-8752 www.rivergroup.com Art Gallery - p44, p50 38 SCENTCHIPS USA La Villita - Bldg. 21 San Antonio, TX 78205 210.223.2267 www.lavillita.com Candles - p44 38 STARVING ARTIST GALLERY La Villita - Bldg. 12 San Antonio, TX 78205 210.226.3593 www.lavillita.com Art Gallery - p44 38

@TheSanAntonio RiverWalkOfficial thesanantonioriverwalk @theSAriverwalk

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com #SAriverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk Hugman

CASTROVILLE

56 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

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24 25

LOCATIONS LISTING RESTAURANTS 13 Salt Grass - Heubner Oaks

29 Joe’s Crab Shack -

San Antonio 410

14 Salt Grass - Donella

ATTRACTIONS & SHOPPING

15 Paesanos - Lincoln Heights

1 The Rim

16 Paesanos - 1604

2 Six Flags Fiesta Texas

26 Augies Barbed Wire

3 The Shops at La Cantera

Smokehouse

28 Joe’s Crab Shack -

San Antonio Quarry

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

4 SeaWorld of San Antonio 5 North Star Mall

1604

MISSIONS TRAIL

6 The Forum Shops

17 K1 Speed

7 Vineyard Shopping Center

18 McNay Art Museum

21 The Alamo

8 Alamo Quarry Market

19 Morgan’s Wonderland

22 Mission Conception

9 Splashtown

20 The DoSeum

23 Mission San José

10 Alamo Helicopter Tours

27 Flipz Trampoline Park

24 Mission San Juan

11 San Antonio Zoo

28 Extreme Escape

25 Mission Espada

12 San Antonio Botanical Garden

29 San Antonio Aquarium

RIO Magazine

57

COUPONS Tower of the Americas

210 W Market St. San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 299-4499 BriscoeMuseum.org

$2 OFF

General Adult Admission SAVE UP TO $8 Open Tue–Sun 10AM with seasonal closing hours | Closed Mondays Expires 12/31/2019

FREE BASKET OF HAND BATTERED FRIED PICKLES With the purchase of TWO dinner menu entrees.

237 Loyosa, San Antonio, TX 78205 210-223-9374 www.riverrestaurants.com Limit one coupon per table. Expires 12/31/2019

2

$

OFF TOWER TICKET

126 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX, 78205

(210) 212-7299

www.biergartenriverwalk.com

FREE

701 Bowie, San Antonio, TX 78205

210.223.3101

KRAUTWURST BALLS

TowerOfTheAmericas.com

with purchase of TWO – ONE LITER BIERS

Ticket includes unlimited access to Observation Deck, Flags over Texas & 4-D Theater Ride. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Limit one $2.00 off coupon per person. No cash value.

One coupon per table.

For dine in guests only. Expires 12/31/2019

Expires 12/31/2019

10% OFF

110 E. Crockett on the Riverwalk 210-277-6300

this La Villita location

Plaza Taxco (Excluding Sales Items)

FREE CHEF’S APPETIZER OF THE DAY

With the purchase of an adult entrée.

See our ads on pages 27 & 56

One coupon per table per visit. Offer at Riverwalk location only.

Must present coupon. Expires 12/31/2019.

10% OFF

Parties of LESS than 8

this La Villita location

FREE FLAUTAS

(seasoned chicken rolled up in a tortilla)

with the purchase of 1 entrée Parties of 8 or MORE

LA PACHANGA APPETIZER (Cup of Queso, beef tacos and flautas)

with the purchase of 2 entrées Coupon not valid with other offers or coupons.

Please present coupon to server at time of ordering.

FREE CHILE CON QUESO!

with purchase of an Entrée

I RONCACTUS . COM

58 58 RIO RIOMagazine Magazine

146 E. Houston St. @ River Walk 210.222.2362 | acenar.com

(excluding sale items and alcohol)

One per table, please. Dine in only. Expires 12/31/2019.

See our ads on pages 27 & 56

$

10% OFF

3

OFF

at this La Villita location

ADULT OR CHILD TICKET

301 Alamo Plaza •210-224-9299

RIPLEYS.COM/SANANTONIO

Not valid with any other offer. Good up to six people.

Expires 12/31/19 • ©RIPLEY ENTERTAINMENT INC. - RIO MAG

Tasha Polizzi • Dian Malouf • Consuela Virgins, Saints & Angels • Juan Antoni Flax • XCVI • Sterling and Turquoi

2 0 0 R IV ER WA LK , S T E. 1 0 0 S A N A N TO N IO , T X 7 8 2 0 5 ( 2 1 0 ) 2 2 4 -9 8 3 5

With purchase of 2 entrées

In Historic La Villita just steps from th 418 Villita St. • www.angelitas (210) 224-8362

Redeem this coupon for a f ree order of Chile con Queso. Not valid with any other offer. One coupon per 4 entrées.

Dine-in only. Expires 12/31/19.

(Excluding Sales Items)

Chef’s Surprise Appetizer

(Excluding Sales Items)

angelita

See our ads on pages 27 & 56 thesanantonioriverwalk.com thesanantonioriverwalk.com

50% OFF SOUVENIR CUP 22 oz Only, Happy Hour only, weekdays between 4-6

Expires 12/31/19

200 River Walk 210-580-4844 www.thirstyaztec.com

$

2

FREE REFILL

22 oz Only, Happy Hour only, weekdays between 4-6 (Limited to one per coupon) Expires 12/31/19

200 River Walk • 210-580-4844 www.thirstyaztec.com

(Limited to one per coupon)

OFF Complimentary House Dessert with order of an entrée.

an Adult Entrée with this ad Ice Cold Drinks & Good Texas Food 245 E. Commerce River Level at Navarro & Crockett 210-227-RITA • www.ritasontheriver.com

12/31/19

111 W. Crockett Street, Suite 101 (210) 227-2782 paesanosriverwalk.com Not valid with any other offer or discount.

Offer only valid at Paesanos Riverwalk location.

Valid only for lunch and Dinner, coupon good for up to 2 entrees at a table

FREE BEVERAGE With the purchase of entree during happy hour only.

Happy Hour 4-8PM RIO

409 E. Commerce 210-465-UGLY www.coyoteuglysaloon.com

12

SAVE UP TO

$

Present this coupon and receive $2.00 OFF each adult and $1.00 OFF each Child’s Full Price Discovery Tour Ticket.

Limit 6.

210-651-6101 •naturalbridgecaverns.com

Not Valid With Any Other Discount or Program.

Expires 12/31/2019.

10124

20% OFF

FREE OYSTER SAMPLER w/ purchase of 2 premium beverages 123 Losoya #7, San Antonio, Texas 78205 Phone: (210) 354-3002

ENTIRE GUEST CHECK

One coupon, per check, per visit. Not valid with any other coupons or promotional offers. Coupon has no cash value. No change returned. Taxes and gratuity not included. Alcoholic beverages not included. Valid only 903 E. Commerce St. San Antonio, TX location. Selection and prices may vary. Only original coupon accepted. Photocopied and Internet printed or purchased coupons are not valid. No substitutions. © 2014 DFO, LLC. Printed in the U.S.A. Offer ends 12/31/19

$5 OFF

Harley Davidson Dealer T-Shirt Expires 12/31/19

12/31/19

111 West Crockett Street 210-212-4461 cowboysalamocityharley.com

*Short sleeve t-shirts only. Applies to dealer t-shirt wall only.

Limit one coupon per person. Full price items only.

No additional discounts apply. Expires 12/31/2019

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine

59

Gourdough’s Public House

Donuts imaginatively disguised as a meal For a delicate pastry that’s been around every street corner since the mid1800s, re-inventing donuts into a renowned sensation beloved by national critics was a long shot. It was brazen and ambitious – everything that Texans stand-for and Gourdoughs Public House provide.

While donuts themselves aren’t revolutionary, using them in imaginative ways to dazzle and delight both traditional and quirky palettes was.

Gourdoughs line of savory donut burgers, one for each day of the week, will leave you laughing at the names and craving the flavors. Like the Ron Burgundy: an Angus beef patty, bacon, a fried egg, American cheese, cilantro, guacamole, and sliced tomato with mayonnaise on a donut bun. Or the Double D complete with double Angus beef patties, applewood smoked bacon, blue cheese crumbles, and a chipotle may. Ask for veggie patty options for all burgers. Think a donut doesn’t make a good burger bun? Think again!

Gourdough’s digs deep into the heart of Texas with its oversized portions.

Sharing is an option to allow for ordering lots of amazing sides like cream corn, hand-battered fried okra, mac and cheese, and creamed kale.

and candied pecans. Adventurous foodies will love dishes like the Squealing Pig, where sweet meets savory in the form of cream cheese icing, bacon, strawberry jalapeño jelly, and candied jalapeños.

The menu includes entrees and sandwiches dishes that will leave you debating what to get up until the very moment the server takes your order. Aunt Merles Pot Pie is a dreamy creamy chicken roux served over a potato pancake with a hot garlic donut on the side. The Boss Hog features slow-roasted pulled pork with a tangy BBQ sauce served on a piping-hot garlic donut and a side of potato salad. The Drunken Hunk is meatloaf perfected; it comes topped with a fried egg and candied jalapenos, resting on a potato pancake and yes, a hot garlic donut on the side. Mmm.

Gourdough's Public House 215 Losoya Street, San Antonio (210) 774-4010 Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m. to Midnight Brunch served every day

And then their’s dessert. Chocolate lovers go crazy for the Black Out, a donut topped with chocolate icing, brownie batter, brownie bites, and chocolate chips. People looking for a sweet slice of the south often opt for the Southern Belle, a donut topped with house-made pecan pie filling, cream cheese icing, 60 RIO Magazine

$15 weekday special Private room & Catering

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

485 Red

300 Blue C

100% Black

Fa La La La La Villita

A Holiday Shopping Must-See Destination Located in the heart of downtown, La Villita offers over 20 unique boutiques, art galleries and savory dining experiences. Shop local & have a holiday shopping experience as charming as the gifts you’ll find.

Hours of Operation

Mon – Sat 10am – 6pm | Sun 11am – 4pm

La Villita | 418 Villita Street | lavillitasanantonio.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Acenar www.acenar.com 210-222-2362

DINING/RESTAURANTS

The Original Mexican Restaurant & Bar www.theoriginalmexican.com 210-224-9951

Cascade Caverns www.cascadecaverns.com 830-755-8080

BierGarten www.biergartenriverwalk.com 210-212-7299

On the Bend Oyster Bar & Lounge www.onthebendsa.com 210-354-3002

City Sightseeing Double Decker Tour San Antonio www.citysightseeingsanantonio.com 210-224-8687

Boudro’s A Texas Bistro on the River Walk www.boudros.com 210-224-8484

Paesanos RiverWalk www.paesanosriverwalk.com 210-227-2782

Dave & Buster’s www.daveandbusters.com 210-951-3600

Rainforest Café www.rainforestcafe.com 210-277-6300

GO RIO River Cruises www.goriocruises.com 210-227-4746

Restaurante Pico de Gallo www.picodegallo.com 210-225-6060

LEGOLAND Discovery Center/San Antonio www.SanAntonioLEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company www.bubbagump.com 210-224-4867 Chart House www.TowerOfTheAmericas.com 210-223-3101 The County Line www.countyline.com 210-229-1941 Dave & Buster’s www.daveandbusters.com 210-951-3600

Rio Rio Cantina www.riorioriverwalk.com 210-226-8462 Rita’s on the River www.ritasontheriver.com 210-227-RITA

SHOPPING

Denny’s Riverwalk www.dennys.com 210-223-4321

Angelita’s www.angelitasa.com 210-224-8362

Dick’s Last Resort www.dickslastresort.com 210-224-0026

FLOW CBD Lounge www.flowsupplements.com

Fogo de Chao www.fogodechao.com 210-227-1700

Market Square www.marketsquaresa.com 210-207-8600

Guadalajara Grill www.guadalajaragrill.us 210-222-1992

Cowboys Alamo City Harley Davidson on the RiverWalk www.cowboysalamocityharley.com 210-212-4461

Iron Cactus www.ironcactus.com 210-224-9835

La Villita Historic Village www.lavillitasanantonio.com 210-207-8614

Landry’s Saltgrass Steakhouse www.saltgrass.com 210-222-9092

Plaza Taxco www.plazataxco.com 210-212-6733

Landry’s Seafood www.landrysseafood.com 210-229-1010

Mirror Maze 210-224-2288 Natural Bridge Caverns www.naturalbridgecavernscom 210-651-6101 Phillips Entertainment/Guiness Book of World Records Museum www.alamoplazaattractions.com 210-226-2828 Ripley’s/Waxworks www.ripleys.com 210-224-9299 Sealife San Antonio www.SEALIFE.com/San-Antonio

NIGHTLIFE

Coyote Ugly Saloon www.coyoteuglysaloon.com 210-465-UGLY Hilton Palacio Del Rio/Durty Nelly’s/ Tex’s Riverwalk Sports Bar www.PalacioDelRio.Hilton.com 210-224-3368 Naked Iguana www.nakediguanariverwalkbar.com 210-226-8462

HOTELS

Shops at Rivercenter www.shoprivercenter.com 210-225-0000

Wyndham Resorts www.wyndham.com

MUSEUM

Thirsty Aztec www.thirstyaztec.com 210-580-4844

Lonestar Restaurants www.riverrestaurants.com 210-223-9374

Briscoe Western Art Museum www.briscoemuseum.org 210-299-4499

MadDogs British Pub www.maddogs.net 210-222-0220

Buckhorn Saloon & Museum www.buckhornmuseum.com 210-247-4000

Mi Tierra Café www.mitierracafe.com 210-225-1262

The DoSeum www.thedoseum.org 210-212-4453

La Margarita Mexican Restaurant www.lamargarita.com 210-227-7140

San Antonio Conservation Society www.saconservation.org/homestead 210-225-5924

62 RIO Magazine

ATTRACTIONS

MISCELLANEOUS

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

64 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com