San Antonio Magazine March/April 2023

The top 108 eats, drinks, places for fun and more.

IN THE LOOP EAT+DRINK

Maker

Inherited quilting fabric was the genesis of Katie Lynne Jewelry.

City News

The first facility in the Alamo’s grand master development plan opens this month.

Person of Interest

The founder of Freed Texas says education and community is the answer to recidivism among people who were formerly incarcerated.

Dish

A Night in Old San Antonio isn’t the only place you’ll find authentic chicken-on-a-stick.

Eat Here Now

Emily and Houston Carpenter have another hit in Restaurant Claudine, the Government Hill eatery serving up Southern favorites like Houston’s grandmother used to make.

Libations

16 18

Best of the City

San Antonio is brimming with culinary, creative and cultural talent. Get to know some of the top restaurants, shops, places for fun and more in this year’s Best of the City.

FEATURES 46 40 6 MARCH/APRIL 2023

Read

Five books from San Antonio authors to add to your spring reading list.

Influencers

Mom and daughter Maria and Anna Sophia Aguilar turned their passion for design and bold statement pieces into their carefully curated MexiChicSA Boutique.

Add a creative cocktail, like the margarita verde, to your next brunch order at Full Goods Diner at Pearl.

Spotlight

Get to know the local chefs behind your favorite dishes in a new podcast by the founders of the San Antonio Restaurants social media group.

Culture Commons

The city’s downtown gallery is spotlighting the perspectives of local Black artists—including a young Rwandan immigrant—in its latest exhibition.

On the Cover

Marla Segura photographed

Best of the City winner Best Quality Daughter’s milk oolong ice cream sandwich, accompanied by custom text by illustrator Alex Rhodes.

CRUZ; BOUTIQUE: ERIKA RAMIREZ; PORTRAIT: JANA CANTU

Iimagine we weren’t the only ones to collectively hold our breath upon learning that the original owners of W.D. Deli had put it up for sale. When the magazine’s offices were at Pearl, the eatery on Broadway was a favorite for those days when we didn’t pack a lunch or just needed an excuse to get away from our computers. Their homemade soups, sandwiches and can’t-pass-up Hello Dolly bars and cookies are the perfect mid-day distraction while its cozy dining room affords just the place for brainstorming or simply catching up. Thankfully, as we and others worried the mainstay would close, Kelly Palubiak and Steve Clemens agreed to purchase the deli, promising the welcoming atmosphere and longtime lunch favorites would remain. They more than kept their word, maintaining (and expanding) the menu while also becoming an integral part of the community, in part, by introducing a program to allow those in need to enjoy a free sandwich on tough days.

The annual Best of the City awards are all about recognizing businesses and people like Palubiak and Clemens, who operate with heart and passion. It’s also about celebrating the experiences that make us fall in love with San Antonio all over again (like stand-up paddleboarding on the Museum Reach), recognizing chefs who are putting the Alamo City on the map (see Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, whose Best Quality Daughter dessert is on the cover) or cheering on creatives who continually hit their mark (if you haven’t experienced a Doc Watkins show in his basement Jazz, TX club or selected a card made by Meg Sutton at Belle & Union Co., it’s time you do). Get to know these winners and dozens of others starting on page 36.

Along with our editors’ picks for those new standouts and old standbys to love, we also recognize the 50 winners selected by our readers, who cast nearly 70,000 votes during the final month of 2022. Their picks make the perfect bucket list, whether you’re looking to expand your dining repertoire, shop local or find a new go-to spot for when friends and family are in town.

The Best of the City issue was the first San Antonio Magazine ever produced and it’s one that makes us appreciate anew the great city in which we live each year. We hope it also provides you with a few new reasons to love your hometown.

Kathleen Petty Editor in Chief kpetty@sanantoniomag.com @kpettysamag

¡Viva!

Count down to the return of Fiesta San Antonio with a look at parties and parades not to miss, Fiesta foods to find at local restaurants and more. sanantoniomag.com/ fiesta-san-antonio-23

Winner’s Circle

The readers’ winner for Best Florist, Bel Flor, built her business around the idea that fresh flowers should be delivered regularly. Find out more about her subscription model and her beautiful bouquets at sanantoniomag. com/bel-flor.

It’s Party Time!

After reading about the 2023 Best of the City winners, celebrate them in-person with food, drinks and fun during the March 23 Best of the City Party at Ivy Hall. Tickets are available now at sanantoniomag.com/ bestofthecityparty23.

COMING UP

ultimate San Antonio trails guide.

The

PETTY: JOSH HUSKIN; FIESTA: JOMANDO CRUZ

MARCH / APRIL 2023

VOL. 18, NO. 3

EDITORIAL

Editor in Chief Kathleen Petty

Contributing Writers Rona Berg, Bonny Osterhage, Jill Robbins, Katherine Stinson, Kimberly A. Suta, Edmund Tijerina

Copy Editor Patsy Pelton

Editorial Intern

Paulina Rodriguez

ART

Art Director David G. Loyola

Contributing Photographers

Jana Cantu, Mike Carey, Jason Chetwood, JoMando Cruz, Erika Ramirez, Marla Segura, Chris Stokes

Contributing Illustrator Alex Rhodes

ADVERTISING

Publisher Kathie Anderson

Account Director Dana Horner

Sales Operations Manager

Kiely Whelan

DIGITAL

Digital Managers

Rosie Ninesling, Abigail Stewart

OPEN SKY MEDIA

CEO Todd P. Paul

President Stewart Ramser

Editorial Director Rebecca Fontenot Cord

Director of Operations Hollis Boice

CIRCULATION

Audience Development Director

Kerri Nolan

Circulation Manager Julie Becker

EVENTS

Events Director Lauren Sposetta

ACCOUNTING

Accounting Manager Sabina Jukovic

CONTACT US 210-268-1100 sanantoniomag.com

Advertising Inquiries advertising@sanantoniomag.com

Story Ideas, Letters to the Editor editor@sanantoniomag.com

Subscriptions, Renewals and Address Changes

Open Sky Media, Inc. 512 W. MLK Jr. Blvd., PMB 374 Austin, TX 78701-1231 512-387-6234 subscriptions@sanantoniomag.com sanantoniomag.com/subscribe

IN THE LOOP

Preserving Style

WHEN KATIE MEISCHEN INHERITED HER HUSband’s grandmother’s collection of vintage quilting fabric in 2014, she wasn’t sure what to do with it. In fact, it wasn’t until nearly six years later that the stay-at-home mom and former fashion buyer had the idea of transforming it into something new: statement jewelry.

The San Antonio maker remembers from a young age watching her mom turn fabric remnants into pillowcases or tablecloths. Meanwhile, her grandmother made clothing for Meischen’s Barbie dolls

using tiny scraps left from old sewing projects. Inspired by their lead, Meischen set about turning pieces of those quilts into earrings, completing her first prototype in early 2020 and expanding into an Etsy shop by July. Since COVID, she’s also been active in local markets, including Boerne’s Handmade Market, and has been featured at local shops like Belle & Union Co. All of Meischen’s pieces are handsewn, hand-cut and hand-painted, using only vintage fabrics from the late 1800s through the 1990s. Meischen says she’s not only creating something completely unique but also prioritizing sustainability in an industry that often contributes to waste.

SHOP

Katie Lynn Vintage Textile Jewelry instagram.com/ katielynnesatx

The Gathered Market in Helotes, March 26

Bringing the Past Forward

After nearly a decade long wait, historic Alamo artifacts donated by singer Phil Collins will go on display March 3 in the new Alamo Collections Center.

The two-story, 24,000-square-foot exhibition hall is the first piece of what will eventually be a more than $350 million overhaul of Alamo Plaza and the surrounding area, with the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum up next, opening in 2026.

“There is nothing more iconic in Texas than the Alamo,” says Marc Anderson, Visit San Antonio president and CEO. “Most Texans have made multiple visits growing up and of course, proudly bring outof-town visitors there. That’s what makes the Alamo plan so exciting. It has been such a thorough and detailed process, encompassing both restorations of historic buildings and new construction projects, with all the goals of fostering reverence and dignity at one of the most important sites in Texas history.”

And while anyone living in or visiting San Antonio is certainly familiar with the phrase “Remember the Alamo,” few have taken the fascination and love of all

things Alamo to the level of Collins, the UK singer, songwriter and drummer. Collins’ fascination with the Alamo began after seeing the Disney version of Davy Crockett as a child, and he amassed a major collection of artifacts (though the authenticity of some has been called into question) that he donated to the Texas General Land Office in 2014.

The Collections Center will provide an interim home to many of Collins’ pieces plus other items that have been on display at the Alamo in the past. With 10,000 square feet of gallery space, the center is five times larger than the current exhibit space in the Alamo and the first new facility to open on the grounds since the 1950s. After the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum is open in the historic Crockett and Woolworth buildings, the Collections Center will be home to new, still-to-be-determined displays as well as traveling exhibits.

During visits this spring, look for a bronze cannon used by the Mexican Army during the Battle of the Alamo, the original battle orders signed by Santa Anna and various weapons used in the battle.

The Alamo Collections Center debuts as a first step in the massive Alamo redevelopment plan

VISIT

Battle of the Alamo commemoration events are planned March 1-6.

The Alamo Collections Center opens March 3. Reserve tickets at thealamo.org.

Truly Free

Leonora Walker, the founder and CEO of Freed Texas, is using her journey out of incarceration to help others break the cycle of recidivism and addiction

Leonora Walker was not yet a teenager the first time she used drugs. “I was introduced by my father, who was a heroin addict. I remember it very vividly,” she says. “It was a generational thing, and it wasn’t until I got incarcerated for drugs—after being on the streets and many times of going in and out for stealing and doing things that were related to addiction—that I started getting the mental health services I really needed.”

Now in her 40s with more than 10 years of sobriety, Walker cites that final arrest in her 30s as the turning point. Once she started addressing her mental health, she was determined to change. However, while completing three years of probation following her release, Walker says she was struck by how tough it was to succeed within the current system as a previously incarceretated person, which makes everything from finding housing to steady work a challenge. With the help of mentors and her faith, Walker says she learned to speak up for herself and to slowly build a new life. Once she saw it was possible, she wanted to help others accomplish the same thing.

Her nonprofit Freed Texas does just that. Through a partnership with Bexar County and other organizations, Walker and her team provide education, resources and a community to those who commit to forging a new path. “I want to share my wisdom so others can be set free, too,” she says. “We need to see people who have healed and who look like us.”

What led you to start Freed Texas?

I had a good friend I’d met at Haven for Hope who had been in and out of the system. I got a call while in school studying to become a licensed chemical drug counselor that she’d passed away. I had just talked to her a few days before, and I was really frustrated and disgusted because I knew so many people who had died or gone back to jail because they came out and didn’t know what to do. I’m a spiritual person and I just said, ‘Lord, Jesus Christ, send me.’ I wanted to do something to help. I wanted to create something that is humane

FACT FILE

Experience:

Walker is a designated peer support specialist who has worked with the San Antonio Council of Alcohol and Awareness, the Center for Healthcare Services and elsewhere.

Service: She is also a member of the Bexar County Reentry Board and Bexar County Child Welfare Board.

Support: Get involved or learn how to volunteer at freedtexas.org.

and treats people as human beings first—not as ex-offenders or ex-convicts. That’s why we call our formerly incarcerated students scholars. I want to change the narrative. I just got my record completely expunged and sealed. I am really and truly free, and I want to share this wisdom with others and offer a holistic approach to re-entry. I brought my proposal to Bexar County during the pandemic and we’re working with our second cohort of scholars now.

What was it like starting during the pandemic?

I was still working full time and going to school part time when I put my proposal together and then the pandemic hit, and it was a blessing for me because so many other services paused, so I was able to step in and start this class, called Remnant Healing Academy. We received $50,000 from Bexar County to hold that first class.

Scholars apply when they’re released from incarceration and then go through an interview process. We had 67 applicants for those first 10 spots. This year, we have three cohorts planned so we can serve 30 people.

INTERVIEW BY KATHLEEN PETTY | PHOTO BY MIKE CAREY

Of the first 10, nine completed the program. They ranged in age from 18 to 50, seven were men and three were women and they were black, brown, white—it was diverse. We had some great successes. Three of them are now in college. One is a supervisor at Frito-Lay. Three of them have come back and are working for us with this next group of scholars.

What is a typical Remnant Healing Academy week like?

We meet Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and students earn $15 an hour for the time they are there. Many of them have jobs after that or go to school part time, but the $15 makes it possible for them to participate—everybody needs an income.

We do peer support and talk about different resources they can use. We go over educational services that are available and work with them to figure out which trades or certifications they can pursue. (They’re eligible for a two-year scholarship to Alamo Colleges after completing the program.) It’s really individualized because if someone had misdemeanors, there is more they’ll be allowed to do than someone who has a felony and may not have much flexibility in terms of industries they can work in.

We learn about civic engagement, and we have divinity time. We spend a day each week on employment and have mock interviews and connect them with places that will hire formerly incarcerated individuals. Fridays are all about health and wellness, which includes counseling, meditation and trauama therapy.

We do volunteer work and family restoration. This year, we have field trips planned so they can have fun with their children. We know family restoration is critical to somebody not reoffending and it’s one of the main things that’s stripped from us because when you’re incarcerated you don’t see your kids.

How does recidivism impact this work?

In our first cohort, seven of the 10 had been incarcerated more than once. Nationally, 63 percent of people reoffend within six years and 83 percent by nine years. The way the system is set up makes it really difficult, so you go back to old people, places and things to take care of loved ones or just to survive.

County and city officials know it’s a problem. It’s just that not many people want to do what I’m doing. How many people are eager and joyful to work with the formerly incarcerated? But it’s so needed.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

I want to change the narrative. I just got my record expunged and sealed. I am really and truly free, and I want to share this wisdom with others and offer a holistic approach to re-entry.

Read Local

Add these books by San Antonio authors to your lit list

Lucky John

by Desiree Kannel

It’s been 20 years since John Roberts’ father sent him to live with an aunt after the teenager’s secret girlfriend became pregnant. Now, he’s back home following his dad’s illness and encountering that first love again. Roberts quickly learns he is the only one who has not moved on from the past. Kannel is a California native who now lives in San Antonio and hosts creative writing workshops throughout the community. This novel was a finalist for the 2021 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for African American Fiction. Her next work is due out this fall.

The Spite House by Johnny

Compton

Set in the Hill Country, this recently released novel is a gothic thriller about a father, Eric Ross, who is on the run with his two daughters. Ross settles in Degener, Texas, where he takes a job as caretaker of a haunted property. He’s not just charged with caring for the home, though. Ross is asked to find proof of the paranormal activity the owner knows is taking place. The mysterious assignment drives Ross to some self-reflection, and if he can succeed, a much needed pay day. The book is Compton’ s first, but the author has published several short stories.

Sonju

by Wondra Chang

This book is the first full-length novel by Chang, a retired family therapist who has been writing short stories since she was a child growing up in South Korea. In the book, Chang inserts a few of her own experiences while weaving together a fictional tale about a young woman living in South Korea after Japan ends its 35-year occupation. The liberation leaves her with dreams of education and freedom, but those butt up against her family’s traditional practices. The novel was named one of the best Indie Books of 2021 by Kirkus Reviews.

+ 2 LITERARY EVENTS TO ATTEND

Book Appetit Literary Feast with James McBride

March 8, Witte Museum

Hear from McBride, a novelist, musician and screenwriter who won a National Book Award for Good Lord Bird, during this event ahead of the annual SA Book Festival.

San Antonio Book Festival

April 15, Central Library and Southwest School of Art

Now in its 11th year, this year’s festival will return downtown. Expect a full day of author presentations and panels, children’s activities, a teen area, food trucks and more. The full list of authors attending will be released on March 8. Find details at sanantoniomag.com/ sa-book-festival-23.

Treasure Isle: A Swashbuckling Tale of a Boy and his Parrot

by Catherine Corcoran

When a young boy and his parrot set sail to find pirates’ treasure, they encounter an unexpected adventure full of twists, turns and the need for a little bravery. The imaginative children’s book is written by an Australian-turned-San Antonian who is a mom to three adventurous boys of her own. The book is a fun one to read aloud and comes with a link for free coloring sheets so kids can continue the treasure hunt. Illustrations are by Natalie Lundeen.

A Girl Can Build Anything by e.E.

Charlton-Trujillo and Pat

Miller

Zietlow

Charlton-Trujillo, a San Antonio resident and Mexican American author and filmmaker, is known for his YA novels and, most recently, for the children’s books about a kindergarten wannabe rock star, Lupe Lopez. This latest release, due on shelves in April, is beautifully illustrated (thanks to Keisha Morris) and meant to provide inspiration to young girls interested in applying those STEM skills to building or creating something of their own.

Meaningful Style

Mother-daughter duo’s MexiChicSA is a mecca of Mexican culture and heritage

The designer Oscar de la Renta once famously said, “Fashion is about dressing according to what’s fashionable. Style is more about being yourself.” That could be the mantra for Maria and Anna Sophia Aguilar, the mother-daughter duo behind the vibrant MexiChicSA Boutique. These women have turned their passions for design and creativity into a thriving business that stays true to their Mexican heritage and their mission of helping other women succeed.

“We support a large number of female artisans and we have gotten to know them, their families and their stories,” says Anna Sophia. “We now collaborate with many of them to design our own one-of-a-kind pieces.”

Those pieces include colorful hand-painted bags, embroidered shoes, vibrant dresses, and bold, colorful statement jewelry, a nod to Maria’s personal style.

The oldest of three children, and the only girl, Anna Sophia and her mother shared a bond while she was growing up that only grew stronger over time. By the time she was an adult, they realized they wanted to create something inspired by their mutual love of fashion.

SHOP

MexiChicSA

522 N.W. Loop 410 shopmexichicsa.com

Frequent shopping trips to Mexico in 2019 yielded unique finds that they stored in a spare bedroom. Eventually, they started selling their goods on Facebook Live, trying the items on and teaching women how to style them.

“It was like a QVC program but on Facebook,” says Anna Sophia, with a laugh, adding that they still do the shows today. “We treat it like a storytelling production where we help women create a vision.”

The success of their social media efforts led to a website and, in November of 2022, a storefront in the Painted Tree Boutiques. There they showcase all of the clothing and accessories that put the chic in MexiChic, while also sharing the stories behind the carefully selected makers.

“We spent hours and hours going deep into Mexico and walking around the markets to find the right quality and the right partnerships,” says Anna Sophia. “We want to empower these artisans because they are female business owners just like us.”

As the business grows, the women hope to expand their concept to the Austin and Houston areas. Both Anna Sophia and her mom would also like to create additional collaborations with artisans that allow them to be even more involved in the design process while still giving artisans the power to do what they do best: create.

“Our artisans are the heart of our business,” she says. “We want to continue to empower them because without them none of this would be possible.”

EAT + DRINK

A Boundless Fiesta

Find festival-worthy treats any time of the year at Benjie’s Munch

THE SECRET TO BEN DE LOS SANTOS’ chicken-on-a-stick is not some special seasoning or brine, but crushed saltine crackers. “It’s the recipe my mom used when we were growing up with chicken-fried venison,” says the chef and owner of Benjie’s Munch. Instead of an egg wash like his mom used, however, De Los Santos dips premium white chicken meat in buttermilk and hard-presses it until it’s thin and tender. The same chicken graces his North Central cafe’s popular chicken sandwich, which along with the chicken-on-a-stick, has been a staple since the restaurant first launched as a food truck in 2014. During Fiesta season, De Los Santos says it’s not uncommon for locals to start with chicken-on-astick (jalapeño atop upon request), a cocoa barbacoa taco or a corn dog, but they almost always return to sample something from the main menu, too. There, De Los Santos delivers a tasty lineup of delicious grilled cheeses (you can’t miss with the spinach artichoke version), burgers (including the Rocket with bacon, arugula, red onion jam and gouda) and keto-friendly/gluten free entrees inspired by his own diet. As someone who has been through gastric sleeve surgery and can only eat small portions, De Los Santos knows every bite counts and he develops recipes accordingly. “When I eat, it’s small, but I want it to be flavorful,” he says. “I don’t waste my time eating food that’s not worthwhile.”

BENJIE’S

1218 W. Bitters Road, Ste. 107 210-556-8624

benjiesmunch.com

Lunch and dinner Tues-Sat

BY KATHLEEN PETTY | PHOTO BY JASON CHETWOOD SAN ANTONIO MAGAZINE 21

MUNCH

BY EDMUND TIJERINA | PHOTOS BY JOMANDO CRUZ

Grandma Knows Best

Restaurant Claudine tastefully honors a restaurateur’s food memories

RESTAURANT CLAUDINE

517 E. Grayson St. 210-527-3116

restaurantclaudine.com

Brunch Sat-Sun; Lunch Tues-Sun; Dinner Tues-Sat

EAT THIS

Grandma’s cornbread

Charbroiled oysters

Blackened shrimp salad

Ruby red trout

or many of us, our grandmothers served years of happy food memories that include freshly baked cookies, chickenfried steak, pot roast, or—in my case— fresh tortillas with calabacita con puerco

Houston Carpenter fondly remembers his grandmother, Claudine, serving him Southern home cooking. So, when a space opened up in what had been a dilapidated old house on East Grayson Street, he and his wife Emily saw the potential to create yet another new eatery to join their growing restaurant empire, which also includes Little Em’s Oyster Bar, Up Scale, Go Fish Market and Nineteen Hyaku.

“I have always wanted to honor her somehow. Her being from Louisiana, cooking fried chicken and short ribs,” he says. “The old-style menu, five rooms, just screamed my grandmother.”

Restaurant Claudine pays tribute to her with the hallmarks of the Carpenters’ other restaurants: a keen sense of style with plenty of pastels, strong service, consistent culinary execution—and packed tables.

On the culinary side, chef de cuisine Cassie Ramsey executes a menu of Southern and Louisiana sensibilities with a few classic French touches. A lovely duck confit is one standout French-inspired dish. It delivers the requisite crisp skin and meltingly tender thigh meat, nestled atop a bed of pureed butternut squash. Escargot received a clever treatment worth praising. Instead of the usual specialty dish, these arrived at the table atop baguette slices with melted French blue cheese and sautéed mushroom that almost leave a diner guessing which bite will

have mushroom or escargot. With plenty of garlic, butter and cheese, every bite is fun.

Like the ingredients on the escargot, the regular rotation of French pop music with American jazz surprised and worked artfully.

“I feel like brasserie and Southern comfort go hand-in-hand,” Emily Carpenter says. “We wanted to tie the two together. There are a lot of restaurants in New Orleans that we look up to that combine them.”

Whether you go more Southern or French, you’ll want to start with an order of cornbread, rich with the comforting aroma of bacon drippings and served with flower-decorated butter. Then snag some charbroiled oysters, complete with herbaceous garlic butter and the crunch of a Parmesan panko topping. Or maybe the crisp and juicy frog legs with chow chow remoulade or the blackened shrimp salad served with a housemade ranch.

Then consider ordering the seared ruby red trout. A succotash topping and vibrant chow chow beautifully contrast with the flaky flesh. Of course, you can never go wrong with the fried chicken, two filets of chicken breast artfully stacked atop rich pommes purée and drizzled with hot honey. These are too rich and refined to call them just mashed potatoes.

With this restaurant, the Carpenters have another hit on their hands.

“We try to find a hole in the market, a concept that Emily and I want to have,” Houston Carpenter says. “Hopefully, other people would want to have it.”

Considering that weekend reservations usually fill up about a week in advance, it sure seems like they’re on the right track.

MARGARITA VERDE

Ingredients

Sea salt or tajin

1 ounce lime juice, plus dash of lime juice for rim of glass

1 ounce poblano jalapeño simple syrup*

Dash of orange bitters

Dash of saline

1½ ounces tequila

½ ounce ancho reyes

½ ounce Cointreau

1 lime or dehydrated lime wheel

Preparation

Coat the rim of a rocks glass in lime juice and then dip in salt or tajin. Measure out the remaining ingredients and pour into a shaker tin. Throw in a scoop of ice. Shake for 10 to 15 seconds. Strain over ice. Garnish with lime slice or wheel.

*To create poblano simple syrup, steep poblano and jalapeño in simple syrup (one part water to one part sugar boiled until sugar is dissolved) for 10 to 15 minutes.

A Touch of Spice

Full Goods Diner brings a kick and some color to its margarita

FULL GOODS DINER’S BEVERAGE DIRECTOR, AUBREY Barone, says finding just the right mix of cocktails to offer alongside the Pearl eatery’s brunch and lunch options required a fair amount of “trial and error.”

By the time the restaurant opened its doors in the former Green Vegetarian Cuisine last fall, Barone and her team had crafted a menu with plenty of classics—like the frozen paloma, bloody mary and mimosa—as well as some creative takes that are all their own. The whiskey-based Pink Lady, for example, is made with elderflower liqueur, lemon, ginger and cinnamon while the Juni-Pear is a combo of

gin, pear juice, ginger, soda and brown sugar. They also knew Full Goods wouldn’t be a San Antonio diner without a margarita. Barone wanted to put a twist on it though, and landed on a margarita verde that features poblano jalapeño simple syrup. “The syrup adds a hint of spice and a vibrant green color,” she says. That combined with the tequila, Cointreau and lime make for the perfect sip to pair with breakfast enchiladas, steak and eggs, a carnitas torta or the BEC sandwich if you’re ready for lunch. Enjoy it all from within the bright and airy restaurant or on its well-appointed patio. “You really can’t go wrong,” Barone says.

FULL GOODS DINER

200 E. Grayson St., Ste. 120 210-819-4226

fullgoodsdiner.com

Breakfast/brunch and lunch daily

The Heart of it All

Podcast hosts say food is even more enjoyable when you know the passion of the chef behind it

Diners already swoon over the signature pork belly tacos at Stixs & Stone, but the hosts of foodie podcast The More You Know, The Better it Tastes say you’ll love them even more once you hear the story of chef Leo Davila, the mastermind behind the entree.

“It totally changes your experience,” says co-host Susie LaFredo. “Now, you’re eating this dish and you understand the heart behind it. If everybody knew the heart and the soul and the sweat and the tears that a restaurant owner or chef puts into making their restaurant special, it would just change everyone’s experience.”

That knowledge is exactly what she and co-host Alan Williams, founder of the San Antonio Restaurants Facebook group, hope to accomplish with the podcast they launched in December.

The pair, who together manage the Facebook group that now has 120,000-plus followers plus its quarterly digital magazine, Instagram page and app, release episodes each week featuring a local chef or restaurant owner. They kicked

off the show with Andrew Weissman, who chats about moving from fine dining at La Reve to burgers and fries at Mr. Juicy. Other episodes have featured Davila; Drew Glick, of Max & Louie’s New York Diner; Charlie Gonzalez, of Panfila Cantina; and Blanca Aldaco, of Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine.

Williams says the only requirements for guests of their podcast is that they come from a local restaurant—no Chili’s or Steak n’ Shake here—and that their eatery delivers a consistently good product. “We want to know if people go there that they’ll enjoy it,” he says.

The two record multiple episodes at a time in a small San Antonio studio, relying on the help of friends with expertise in the field to edit and “make them look good,” Williams says. Williams typically spends several hours researching each guest, but LaFredo says the best answers come from just letting the conversation take its course, especially if it’s a chef they’ve known for years. “By the time they come in, it’s just like meeting with friends and that’s the feeling we want,” she says.

While the local food scene only continues to grow, LaFredo says it’s still common for them to encounter people who think San Antonio is mostly chain restaurants. They’re working to change that. “More and more people want to support local, and San Antonio’s food scene is really on fire right now,” Williams says.

Available on Apple Podcasts and the San Antonio Restaurants app sa-restaurants.com

+2 MORE SHOWS TO ADD TO YOUR LIST

The Mirepoix

Chefs Austin-Bey Kaius and Gilberto Valdes, who run catering and event planning companies, launched this podcast/YouTube show in late 2022 to give locals an inside look at what it’s like to plan pop-ups, cater major events and work with other professionals in the industry. youtube.com/@themirepoix

The Culinary Institute of America

Experts from San Antonio’s campus and other CIA locations dish on the secrets behind some of their favorite entrees, from a smoked gouda burger to a family-style veal shank with bean salad. It’s not quite the same as taking a weekend class, but it’s an insightful listen that any home chef will enjoy. podcasts.apple.com/us/ podcast/the-culinaryinstitute-of-america

THE MORE YOU KNOW, THE BETTER IT TASTES

HIGHER EDUCATION

A guide to the best colleges and universities in Texas

By Rona Berg, Bonny Osterhage, Kathleen Petty, Jill Robbins, Katherine Stinson, Kimberly A. Suta and Edmund Tijerina

OF THECITY2023

Find reader picks and editors’ recommendations for San Antonio’s top places to eat, drink, shop, have fun and more

SHOPPING

BEST SHOP FOR LOCAL FINDS BY FEMALE MAKERS: ELYSIA COLLECTIVE CO.

Maker and college student Emily Howell’s Emily Grace Designs Co. is a “pandemic baby,” but as she became a regular on the pop-up market circuit, Howell realized she wanted something more permanent. Most of the retail spaces she found were too large for just her sweatshirts, tees and other goods, though. So, she recruited 14 other female entrepreneurs to lease space from her and opened the Elysia Collective Co. boutique last fall on Wurzbach Parkway near Alon Town Center. At the shop, find clothing, jewelry, prints, body products and more—all made by women in San Antonio. “This is my passion,” says Howell, a public health major. “I would love to have more stores so we can highlight more businesses.” elysiacollectiveco.com

Elysia Collective Co. is home to 15 female entrepreneurs, including the local pop-up behind this dress, Linen & Thread Boutique.

Lawson. Opened to the public in 2021, Nowhere has quickly become a social and cultural hub, replete with a happy hour where you can belly up to the bar for coffee or tea, wine or beer, kombucha or sparkling CBD. It also sponsors book clubs, readings and more community events, from a Galentine’s Day party to a Haunted Halloween book fair. Whether you have a literary pedigree or an addiction to pulp fiction, you will feel equally at home. nowherebookshop.com

BEST SHOP FOR LOCAL FOODS AND PROVISIONS: ROSE HIP MARKET

This Olmos Park outpost run by Marnie Simpson and daughter Tinsley Simpson LaScala plus business partner Katie Best-Richmond offers tasty pistachio matchas and coffee plus locally made eats by companies like The Blonde Dish, food products (like Pure Heart baking mixes), dog treats, hostess gifts, and more. instagram.com/rosehipmarket

BEST PLACE TO SHOP IN-PERSON: BELLE & UNION CO.

Meg Sutton and her team at this Alamo Heights shop have a robust online business, but it’s worth stopping in a few times a year to see how the maker’s artistry spills over into the store’s decor. During the holiday season, whimsical elements filled every nook as the boutique was transformed into an enchanted forest telling the story of The Night Before Christmas with carefully executed details at every turn. The treatment is not quite as exquisite for fall and spring, but you’ll always know what season it is when you shop (think pencil bouquets for backto-school) and you’ll likely leave inspired by both the handcrafted goods sold and the well-curated environment in which they’re displayed. belleandunion.com

Best Bookstore: Nowhere Bookshop × Best Farmers Market: Pearl Farmers Market × Best Florist/Plants: Bell Flor

OF THECITY2023

BEST REASONS TO SHOP IN AN AIRSTREAM:

MEN: BEXAR GOODS

WOMEN: LA CASA FRIDA

Two of San Antonio’s staple local shops continue to call the Broadway News lot home, welcoming customers to their well-appointed Airstreams parked near Mila Coffee. In Bexar Goods’ Upland Provisions Airstream, find beautifully handcrafted leather wallets, bags, watch

straps, T-shirts and more. A few steps over, explore La Casa Frida for colorful accessories sourced from Mexico as well as concha key chains, Frida dolls, women’s tees and hand-embroidered jackets that are sure to fetch a compliment or two. bexargoods.com, lacasafrida.com

BEST HOME DECOR INSPIRATION: JOYEUX HOME DECOR

It’s tough to walk through this 7,000-square-foot showroom and not come away wanting to redesign at least one room in your home. Owners Dy Lynne and Jack Dabney have combined their loves of modern and antique to curate a store with high quality furniture, accessories and more. Their barn in Olmos Park is also headquarters to Dy Lynne’s design firm and Jack’s construction business, so they’re there to assist if the urge to truly redo your space strikes. Grab a mimosa or latte from the coffee bar inside and get to browsing. joyeuxhd.com

BEST SPOT FOR OFF-THELIST PURCHASES: H-E-B

BEST SUPPORTER OF LOCAL ARTISTS: FELÍZ MODERN

Ginger Diaz once envisioned her and husband Mario’s whimsical shop Felíz Modern as being “the gateway drug for art collecting.” Now with a spinoff boutique, Felíz Modern Pop, and the eclectic home store Rancho Diaz, the couple are well known for bringing customers affordable art, gifts, home accessories and more, many by San Antonio artists and makers. Whether it’s through their consistent in-store selections or on-site vendor pop-ups where you can chat with an artist before purchasing, their stores make bringing local culture into your life easy and fun. felizmodern.com

BEST COMEBACK: THE MARKET AT SHAVANO PARK

Though small, this market is a welcome addition to the city’s North Side, launching last fall and helping to fill a void left by the closings of markets at Live Oak and Deerfield on Huebner. You’ll find many of the vendors from those markets here with their farm-grown produce, local honey, baked goods and jams, cold-pressed juices and even some jewelry and other goods. You’ll still need to stop at H-E-B if you’re shopping for dinner ingredients, but the quaint market provides great options and has lots of potential for growth. facebook. com/themarketatshavanopark

In San Antonio, H-E-B is synonymous with groceries. But since its humble beginnings in Kerrville in 1905, this family-owned company has evolved into a full-service superstore. Beyond its popular food brands, like the decadent Creamy Creations ice cream, H-E-B has made room on its shelves in the past year for more home and lifestyle products— from Haven + Key home goods and Texas Proud furniture collections to H-E-B onesies and T-shirts. They also have branded candles (buttered tortilla, anyone?), eco-friendly household Field and Future products and more. There are so many fun reasons to shop, you may just forget the milk. heb.com

Best Menswear: Bexar Goods × Best Pet Store: SouthPaw Waggery × Best Womenswear: MexiChicSA

BEST PLACE TO BECOME A REGULAR: BAR LORETTA

The buzzy Bar Loretta is the perfect neighborhood bar, and then some. With comfortable indoor seating and two outdoor options, owner Roger Herr ensures there is plenty of room for everyone, and that inclusivity and warmth is evident. The cocktails are insanely delicious, whether the hibiscus-infused gin sour (called A Joyful Sound) or the perfectly executed Black Manhattan. Texas ingredients pervade the menu, from griddled green onion polenta with Texas goat cheese to brick chicken with apple mushroom bread pudding and a local farm fried egg. barloretta.com

EAT+ DRINK

Best American: The Hayden × Best Asian:

BEST SUDDENLY HIP SANDWICH: TORTA AHOGADA AT RO-HO PORK & BREAD

Chef Jorge Rojo has been delighting San Antonians in the know since 2015 with a specialty of his hometown of Guadalajara, Jalisco. Now it’s getting some statewide and national attention with recent raves from Food Network and Texas Monthly—and it’s well deserved. Rojo and his team hit the mark with a crusty sourdough birote, juicy carnitas, a mild yet flavorful tomato sauce and the option to squeeze a splash of a fiery chile de árbol sauce. It’s addictive. ro-hoporkandbread.com

BEST CHICKEN HALLOUMI: LADINO

Ladino is not only one of the hottest new restaurants in town, it’s also the most unusual. Executive chef Berty Richter brings his Mediterranean-Sephardic heritage–with Spanish, Greek, Turkish, Israeli, Balkan, Syrian and Lebanese influences–into an inspired menu, spotlighting dishes like the divine halloumi chicken. Marinated in yogurt, the chicken is charcoal grilled to perfection with halloumi (a tart cheese), vegetables and amba, a fermented mango sauce that originated in India then migrated through Iraq. ladinosatx.com

BEST UNEXPECTED TASTE OF SAN ANTONIO: BEST QUALITY DAUGHTER

What began as a fun pop-up is now a staple for new Asian-American cuisine at Pearl. Chef and owner Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin is consistently surprising guests in the best of ways, creating unique flavor profiles with sometimes disparate ingredients you might think could never play together. It may not be what out-of-towners expect (because we know they usually start their visit with tacos), but Best Quality Daughter’s menu and restaurant represents exactly what makes San Antonio’s food scene superb. Instead of the classic SA chips and salsa, order the sizzling rice chips with mapo hummus. The curry guisada is a must-try (and features Peeler Farms Wagyu beef), the bougie egg rolls and impossible potstickers never disappoint and you must save room for a milk oolong ice cream sandwich. The space is also beautifully designed and features work by female artists. bestqualitydaughter.com

Best Barbecue: Smoke Shack × Best Bar: Tony’s Siesta × Best Breakfast/Brunch: Magnolia Pancake Haus

QUALITY DAUGHTER: MARLA SEGURA; TORTA AHOGADA: COURTESY RO-HO PORK & BREAD

BEST LEGACY BUILDERS: W.D. DELI OWNERS

Sandwich lovers rejoiced when Kelly Palubiak and Steve Clemens purchased this Broadway deli with a promise to keep all the menu favorites while expanding hours and offerings. They’ve done just that—adding breakfast and more while keeping their lunch and dessert specials consistent. They even introduced an element of giving. They announced in August that anyone in need of a meal could order a free turkey or ham sandwich simply by charging it to “Joyce’s Account.”

Named for Palubiak’s grandmother, who would have turned 100 last year, the account is one that customers can contribute to by request and is available to be used by those in need. With hearts like theirs, we can’t wait to see how the new owners build the 33-year-old deli’s legacy during the years to come. wddeli.com

BEST NEW COFFEE SHOP: BRIGHT COFFEE

Flooded with natural light, the aptly named Bright is much more than just a great coffee shop. Owner Hana Buck is an avid swing dancer and welcomes the San Antonio Swing Dance Society to host classes two nights a week plus bimonthly Saturday socials. Every second Friday, a reception celebrates a local artist whose work adorns the walls for the next month. But what truly sets Bright apart is its excellent coffee, the Korean-inflected specialty drinks inspired by Buck’s roots, weekend vegan tacos from Plantaqueria and pastries by Crumbs Viennoiserie and Ooyoo Pan. brightcoffeesa.square.site

BEST STORE FOR SPICES: ALI BABA

The spice selection here is second only to what might be found at a souk in Doha, and it pairs well with halal meats fresh from the butcher counter. In addition to the classics—rosemary, cayenne, oregano— there is a dizzying array of specialty spices such as sumac, Aleppo, zaatar, fenugreek, dried lemon and lime, curry and tandoori seasonings (perfect for grilling), along with a unique range of teas from pomegranate peel to cherry stem. alibabasanantonio.com

Best Breakfast Taco & Best Food Truck: Naco Mexican × Best Brewery: Gather Brewing Co. × Best Burger: Chris Madrid’s

BEST RESTAURANT EMPIRE: CARPENTER CARPENTER HOSPITALITY

The city’s newest restaurant juggernaut began with a simple desire to enjoy oysters close to home. That wish led Emily and Houston Carpenter to create Little Em’s Oyster Bar. Almost as soon as it opened in late 2020, it attracted diners beyond the King William bubble. Flush with momentum, goodwill and a budding following, the couple decided to create a place where they could enjoy sushi, steaks and seafood. That idea led to Up Scale in 2021. Now, they’re basking in the packed tables of their latest two ventures: Restaurant Claudine, a Southern/French restaurant in Government Hill, and Go Fish Market in Tobin Hill.

And they’re still not done. Coming soon is Sushi spot Nineteen Hyaku, planned for the Jefferson Bank building on Broadway, as well as Mailroom Cafe, which will share space in the building that holds Go Fish later this year.

“We are very particular and we pay attention to detail,” Houston Carpenter says. “We have very strong managers in each restaurant and they’re executing on a high level.”

At all the Carpenter places, there’s an unmistakable sense of professionalism, taste and style—all with delicious results. thecarpentercarpenter.com

Best Coffee: Theory Coffee Co. × Best Ice Cream: Lick Honest Ice Creams × Best Donuts: The Art of Donut

Clockwise from left: Em's, Restaurant Claudine, Up Scale, Go Fish, Nineteen Hyaku

THECITY2023

BEST BURGER WORTH TRACKING DOWN: LAST PLACE BURGERS

Mark Villareal has perfected the smash burger, which he creates by putting wax paper over meatball-sized portions of Peeler Farms Wagyu beef and then smashing and seasoning it on a flat top. It’s quickly become a fan favorite and a burger that locals are willing to drive for, whether he’s at Tony’s Siesta, the Pearl Farmers Market or somewhere else. Last month that search got easier when the truck took up residency at Roadmap Brewing Co., where you can find Villareal every day except Tuesday. instagram.com/lastplaceburger

BEST B AR FOR

A CHILL HAPPY HOUR: HANDS DOWN

Originally a pop-up concept at Fl!ght Gallery, artist Amada Miller and the Empty Stomach Group have created an innovative piece of art with this bar in the heart of Southtown. They refer to happy hour as “Bitter Hour,” but we say it’s super sweet. Guests can grab their signature frozen gin and tonic for $7 all day Mondays and Tuesdays, and from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Other drinks on the happy hour menu include the Hibiscus Sangria, a Nothing Compares to Yuzu and the Hands Down Long Island Iced Tea. handsdownbar.com

A PRE-THEATER STOP: DOUBLE STANDARD

Need a bite and a drink before a show at the Majestic, Empire or Aztec theaters? The well-crafted cocktails and tasty menu here deliver. From 11:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily, enjoy $1 East Coast oysters, $2 draft beers and $3 well drinks. If you’re craving steak sandwich before or after a Monday event, take advantage of half-priced steak sandwiches and whiskey from 6 p.m. until closing. Double Standard? More like double deal. doublestandardsatx.com

BEST COMEBACK: LA FRITE BELGIAN BISTRO

After a water pipe burst in November 2021, La Frite was forced to shut down for months as it repaired and took the opportunity to renovate. Owner Miles Donnelly says regulars were constant in their questions about when they could return, and they packed reopening night in May 2022. Along with its longtime customers, the eatery has gained some new loyal fans since debuting again and we can attest that the La Frite moules are just as good as they’ve always been. lafritesa.com

A NOSTALGIC NIGHT: BE KIND AND REWIND

A photo wall dedicated to VHS and a Selena mural greet guests entering this downtown throwback bar with ’80s, ’90s and early 2000s-themed decor and cocktails. Order a Spring Break ’89, test your hand at the (free to use) pinball machines, snap a photo for your IG stories and pretend the weekend starts on Thursday like you did while in college. bekindandrewindsa.com

Best French: Brasserie Mon Chou Chou × Best French Fries: Down on Grayson × Best Greek/Mediterranean:

BEST UNDER-THE-RADAR DINNER SPOT: THE MAGPIE

We first sampled this cozy spot that highlights the talents of Jŭngsūk “Sue” Kim during the days of lockdowns, when she turned out to-go bags of amazing Korean fried chicken, biscuits and pastas. Now back to dine-in, her frequently changing menu shows the depth of her taste, talent and experience, which includes cooking at the two-Michelin-starred Mélisse in Santa Monica. With dishes that include thinly sliced smoked duck, braised tofu that can tempt carnivores and an always delightful butter cake, Kim presents refined flavors in a casual setting. The restaurant closed for expansion and remodeling at the start of the year and was reopening just as this issue went to press. magpie.us

BEST WAY TO TURN HAPPY HOUR INTO A DATE NIGHT: VINTAGE WINE BAR & SPECIALTY FOODS + MEADOW NEIGHBORHOOD EATERY + BAR

Between their wine bar and standout restaurant, P.J. and Lindsey Edwards have made it tough to leave the Alley on Bitters. Start the evening with a glass of Lindsey’s choice at Vintage Wine Bar & Specialty Foods before wandering over to Meadow Neighborhood Bar + Eatery for seasonal Texas fare like P.J.’s potato gnocchi or NY strip with sweet potato puree and charred local onions. Both venues offer cozy seating indoors and out plus menus that will have you looking ahead to your next visit. meadowsanantonio.com

BEST S W EET TR E ATS . . .

CONCHAS: ALEBRIJE PANADERIA

The top spot for conchas in a city with this many options is clearly subjective, but we’d argue that the fluffy, sweet goodness of Cris Mendez and Claudio Navarro’s breads rival anyone’s. They opened the doors of their Government Hill Bakery about a year ago and have since gained a loyal following of locals who rave about the personal customer service and the consistency of the pastries. As one reviewer wrote, “Come for the conchas and stay for the conchas!” alebrijesa.com

GLUTEN-FREE GOODIES: SPRINKLES & SPOONS

Those who live by the certified gf label know it can be tough to find a pastry that lives up to the goodness of the standard flour version. That’s no longer true in San Antonio thanks to Amber Goulden’s Sprinkles & Spoons. The home baker touts her treats as “better than the real thing” and her sweets live up to the hype, whether cinnamon rolls that have just the right texture or cookie cakes that will have you looking for a reason to celebrate. instagram.com/sprinkles andspoonsbakery

PIES: ROOSTER CROW BAKERY

Pastry chef Jenn Riesman’s pies are a slice of heaven and we—along with the rest of the city’s gourmands— have been salivating anew since she turned her online bakery into a brick-andmortar shop in the former Sol y Luna space last year. Riesman, who spent time crafting pastries at Hotel Emma, also excels at cookies, donuts, focaccia and gorgeous custom cakes. But don’t miss the pie, whether apple, black and blue cornbread or peach tree. instagram.com/ roostercrowbakery

Demo’s Greek Food × Best Happy Hour & Best Outdoor Dining: The Good Kind × Best Italian: Battalion

JOMANDO CRUZ

THECITY2023

Do yourself a favor and take a self-guided taco tour of some of our favorites. Head to Con Huevos Tacos’ East Side taqueria for some straight fire breakfast tacos on homemade corn and flour tortillas. Then, visit Naco Mexican on the beautiful Los

Patios property (or their food truck) to enjoy their family recipes that highlight central and northern Mexico. Finally, make a stop at El Pastor es mi Senor on Wurzbach for Mexico City’s traditional trompo-style taco. Each eatery offers mouthwatering

bites guaranteed to make you question what else actually qualifies as a damn good taco. Don’t just take our word for it, the trio was also featured on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles. conhuevostacos. com, nacomexican.com, elpastoresmisenor.com

BEST TACO TOUR: CON HUEVOS, NACO MEXICAN, AND EL PASTOR ES MI SENOR

Best Margarita: El Mirasol × Best Mexican/Tex-Mex: Paloma Blanca × Best Pizza: Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

El Pastor es mi Senor

BESTEX P ANSION

SOUTHTOWN/DOWNTOWN: ROSARIO’S

A mural by internationally recognized Chilean artist Inti graces Rosario’s new Southtown location (just a few minutes from its previous home on South Alamo Street). The classic menu and award-winning margaritas remain unchanged, but now there’s more space and guests can pair their margs with beautiful rooftop views of the downtown skyline. rosariossa.com

NORTHSIDE: BILIA EATERY

Though just a stone’s throw from its original Castle Hills location, Bilia’s new home has more indoor and outdoor seating space for dedicated regulars and newbies eager to try a signature Bilia Cuban sandwich. instagram.com/ biliaeatery

BEST TAPROOM EXPERIENCE: ROADMAP BREWING CO.

With a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival and a bronze at the World Beer Cup in 2022, Roadmap Brewing founders Dustin and Hannah Baker knew people were waiting to hear what’s next. The downtown brewery is slowly replacing its original brewing system with bigger tanks this year to increase brewing capacity, but the Bakers say their focus remains on bringing the best beers they can make to their taproom (and not to every grocery store and bar in Texas). We love that they’ve stayed true to their original mission and the quality of their brews. Plus, you can’t beat the vibe of their downtown space. roadmapbrewing.com

BEST SABOR DE SAN ANTONIO: THE ORIGINAL DONUT SHOP

If you want to understand San Antonio, leave the River Walk and Pearl, and head west to the Original Donut Shop. On any given day, well-suited professionals sit next to uniformed trade workers and workingclass families, all united in their love of fluffy flour tortillas, generous fillings and magical donuts. This is one of those restaurants that reminds us to appreciate our down-to-earth city and its hardscrabble roots. Ever since Taco Chronicles on Netflix highlighted this place in its San Antonio episode a few months ago, the wait takes a little longer. It’s worth it. facebook.com/ theoriginaldonutshop

Best Seafood: El Bucanero × Best Steakhouse: Bohanan’s Prime Steak and Seafood × Best Vegetarian/Vegan: Pharm Table

BEST COMMUNITY SUPPORTER: ERIKA PROSPER

The self-described proud Latina H-E-B executive who also just happens to be the first lady of San Antonio is perhaps the city’s best champion. Though she can be found at the mayor’s side while he’s honoring locals or cutting ribbons, Prosper is perhaps more often seen supporting the city’s makers, artists, culinary scene and education sector on her own by attending events, shopping (and wearing) local goods and sharing about all of it on social media so other locals can enjoy her city as much as she does. She’s unassuming, exudes joy and will continue having an influence on the Alamo City long after her husband’s service is up. instagram.com/ erika_prosper

Best Athlete: Frank Harris

BEST RETURNING STAR: FRANK HARRIS

It’s been quite a year for the UTSA quarterback. Frank Harris set numerous UTSA records and led his team to a second consecutive conference championship. He was named Conference USA MVP and was a finalist for both the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award and the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award. He started 2023 by announcing his engagement to girlfriend Tarin Travieso, and he signed an NIL deal that will compensate him for playing when he returns for his final and seventh season this fall. Go, Runners, Go! goutsa.com

BEST INFLUENCER FOR FAMILY FUN: @CHRISTINA_COKER

Christina Coker is not new to social media—and it shows. The mom to four “minis” ages 8 to 18 started blogging about fashion, food and motherhood a decade ago but has honed her corner anew over the last year(ish) with a weekly Instagram round-up of family-friendly events in and around San Antonio. Coker scans Facebook and local event calendars each week, usually posting on Wednesday so parents have plenty of time to plan for the weekend, and focuses on free, low-cost activities so all families can find things to do together. instagram.com/christina_coker

HARVEY NAJIM

Harvey Najim stepped away as president of his foundation in January, leaving it in the hands of its executive director, but his great impact will only continue to grow. He’s given (literally) millions to more than 200 organizations and has been instrumental in supporting growth at places like SAMMinistries, the YMCA, Child Safe, the children’s center at Haven for Hope, the Alamo Area Rape Crisis Center’s children’s area and elsewhere. At the end of 2022 alone, Najim committed $2 million to expand the Najim Center for Innovation and Career Advancement at UTSA’s downtown campus, where he also plans to mentor students, and he funded three large distributions for the San Antonio Food Bank to ensure that south, east and west Bexar County residents had what they needed to get through the holidays. najimfoundation.org

GORDON HARTMAN

Happily known as Morgan Hartman’s dad, Gordon Hartman is committed to making San Antonio the capital of accessibility. He took that goal to the next level last year with the opening of the Multi-Assistance Center, or MAC, near Morgan’s Wonderland, the ultra-accessible theme park he created in 2010. The $45 million MAC is meant to be a one-stop-shop for those living with special needs and their families. Instead of having to call and visit dozens of service providers, Hartman envisions the MAC as a place where families can come and take care of everything all at once, from medical and social service appointments to haircuts. morganswonderlandmac.com

Best Chef: Sofia Sada × Best Influencer: @s.a.foodie × Best Mascot: Spurs Coyote × Best TV Personality: David Elder

BEST CHEF LEGACY: CHRIS CULLUM

Chris Cullum and his culinary offerings have been a staple of San Antonio, particularly the neighborhood near the St. Mary’s strip, for almost two decades.

In his own clever yet subtle way, he’s been carrying on the legacy of his father, Jim Cullum Jr., and those iconic bygone days when he was first drawn to the kitchen at The Landing, a once popular nightclub that Jim Cullum Jr. and Sr., both jazz musicians, opened together in the ’60s and performed at regularly.

“I was a cook at Dad’s joint on the River Walk. He had a show inside and people would show up in tuxedos, but on the patio, people were wearing tank tops

French bread that came from the former La Louisiane restaurant. It’s just one of the long-lost recipes Cullum is preserving from San Antonio’s culinary past. Having also grown up in the neighborhood, Cullum remembers when the building that houses his Attagirl restaurant was Felix’s Barber Shop. Next to it was a bodega. Now, Attagirl is a quaint hole in the wall with no signage but a pink neon flower. “IYKYK” is what the TikTok crowd would say, but whatever you call it, it’s a sweet surprise when you first sink your teeth into that luscious fried chicken that Cullum has perfected.

“Growing up here, there was this attitude of going to Austin for something great as if San Antonio wasn’t as cool as Austin, but I didn’t really feel that way, like, San Antonio was it the whole time,” says Cullum.

BEST COMEBACK: SAN ANTONIO PHILHARMONIC

Supporters of the arts were understandably concerned when the 83-year-old San Antonio Symphony folded last June. Its closure did not come as a surprise following a long history of financial troubles and a months-long strike by the musicians, but it did leave everyone hoping that something would quickly rise up to take its place. That happened just a few months later when a group of symphony musicians announced the founding of San Antonio Philharmonic. The orchestra is in the midst of its inaugural season, presenting 10 classics concerts and three pops shows plus dozens of free performances at area schools. Instead of at the Tobin Center, the group is playing at First Baptist Church, and instead of a regular conductor, guests have flown in to lead the group through each concert. We know the formation of a new symphonic orchestra is just the beginning to its long-term success and viability, but we’re filled with hope from its strong start and, like many, are rooting for 80-plus years of the Philharmonic. saphil.org

and swim trunks,” he recalls. “We would feed both sets of people and everyone ordered the hamburger—it’s the great equalizer. I told him I knew what I wanted to do.”

A long wooden bench at Culllum’s Attaboy, which opened last year, is a nod to that moment when Cullum sat down with his dad to hash out future restaurant names. In fact, if you take a moment to look around and listen, you’ll find homages and memorabilia everywhere, including through audio of Jim’s old jazz radio shows and in dishes like the La Lou Tarama Peasant Pâté, a divine cured carp roe with

Locals who have followed Cullum since he was feeding street meters and popping up Attaboy’s old school Airstream food truck know just how special it is to have Cullum and his food in the Alamo City. His dishes are simple, yet elegant, always high quality and (though we know it sounds cheesy) made with love. Cullum himself will tell you it’s its own ingredient.

“I’ve been doing this for 31 years—since I started washing dishes for dad. It’s hard to hear that you’ve made something special but that’s what people keep saying. It’s been a very long road to get here but it feels really humbling,” he says. “I hope San Antonio continues to eat at places that are special because they disappear so quickly. We’re dedicated to their memory because it’s fleeting, just like our time on earth.” cullumsattaboy.com, cullumsattagirl.com

BEST COMMUNITY ARTIST: RUDY HERRERA

If you’ve been to Little Death or walked by the largescale mural “The Last Parade” on the side of the Kress Building, you’ve seen Rudy Herrera’s work. Born in El Paso but a longtime San Antonian, Herrera’s pieces often pay tribute to his native culture and almost always include bright, bold colors. Before diving into art full-time, he made ends meet for his family by grinding away in restaurants, including the overnight shift at Bakery Lorraine. Chad Carey’s Empty Stomach Group brought him in to work on some projects—which is how a mural came to cover Little Death wine bar—and he also spent time volunteering and working with San Anto Cultural Arts, which led to more mural opportunities. Catch his work in the Main Space gallery at Artpace through April 30. instagram.com/ rmhworks

"IT’S HARD TO HEAR THAT YOU’VE MADE SOMETHING SPECIAL BUT THAT’S WHAT PEOPLE KEEP SAYING. IT’S BEEN A VERY LONG ROAD TO GET HERE BUT IT FEELS REALLY HUMBLING"

THINGSTODO

Best Art Gallery: Hopscotch San Antonio

BEST DATE NIGHT: JAZZ, TX

Follow the steps tucked on the side of Pearl’s Bottling Dept. down to Doc Watkins’ basement jazz club for an intimate concert and date night that will wow, whether you’re celebrating with a longtime partner or trying to impress a new love interest. Doc Watkins and his band perform regularly (their Christmas shows are especially popular, though anything is good), but the calendar also features plenty of guests who specialize in everything from New Orleans–style jazz to salsa. The well-curated menu and craft cocktails mean you won’t have to plan a pre- or post-concert stop. jazztx.com

BEST SPA DAY: THOMPSON SAN ANTONIO RIVERWALK HOTEL SPA

Everyone needs a spa day. Fortunately, the ideal place to treat yourself exists at this gorgeous spot along the River Walk. A calming wellness sanctuary, the 5,000-square-foot full-service spa (and nail salon) is a study in understated elegance, with a eucalyptus steam room, sauna, a luxurious pool deck, quiet reflective spaces and nurturing treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. Don’t miss the signature Jetsetter Hydrating Facial and the Cenote Body Wrap, standouts created by San Antonio master aesthetician and Airo Skincare founder Daphne Chapman. hyatt.com/hotel/texas/ thompson-san-antonio/satth

BEST OUTDOOR HANGOUT: ELSEWHERE GARDEN BAR & KITCHEN

A happy hour with friends, the start to a date night or an afternoon with the family (including the pup)—whatever the occasion, Elsewhere is for you. Swings at its original location near the San Antonio Museum of Art overlook the River Walk and there are Instagram-worthy floral overhangs, signs and displays at every turn.

Oversized Jenga and Connect

Four entertain the kids and provide a source of competition for adults. With more than 25 beers on tap (and 30 in cans), spiked coffees, specialty drinks and margaritas plus a menu of bingeworthy snacks, it’s easy for a short stop to turn into an hour or two.

Next up: Elsewhere Too, a soonto-open location at Loop 1604 and N.W. Military Highway that will boast a Ferris wheel, two-story bar and greenhouse-like pavilion. elsewheretexas.com

Best Dog Park: McAllister Park × Best Family-Friendly Fun: San Antonio Zoo × Best Fitness Studio: JKFitness

BEST PARTY GUESTS: ONCE IN A WILD

What started as a small collection of reptiles by Rikky Möller and Amanda Winter has grown into a family of more than 100 creatures—from a bearded dragon to a rescued hedgehog—and a burgeoning business they hope will spur a passion in others for animals of all kinds. “We want to offer up-close and live interaction, so they lose the fear, find that passion for the animal and are really inspired to make a difference,” says Möller, co-owner of Once in a Wild. A Mexico native who grew up thinking of animals as more

BESTFANEXP E RIENCEFOR . . .

THE TAILGATE SCENE: UTSA FOOTBALL

Even before the Roadrunners were winning conference championships, they had a notable tailgate vibe going around the Alamodome. Now that their “Birds up!” spirit has spread throughout the city, the pre-game festivities are even more fun. Make plans to attend the official UTSA Alumni tailgate or host a more informal one near the Dome. Just be sure to head inside with enough time to catch Rowdy before kickoff. goutsa.com

THE FAN BASE: SAN ANTONIO FC

San Antonio may have been passed over for Austin for a pro soccer team, but it hasn’t dampened the local fervor for the 2022 USL Champion San Antonio FC. Crowds pack the stands with local pride, and there’s even a fan group called the Crocketteers, founded in 2009 with a goal of being so loud that they count as a “12th man on the pitch.” Other ardent supporters formed the 210 Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the growth of soccer locally. sanantoniofc.com

nuisance than friend, Möller says it wasn’t until he met Winter, his wife, nearly 10 years ago that he realized what he’d been missing. Winter grew up around animals and worked at SeaWorld San Antonio before earning a degree in zoology. Her love of all creatures was contagious. The couple now bring members of their menagerie to schools, birthday parties, office team building exercises and major events, like the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, so locals can learn about and interact with them. onceinawild.com

THE THEME NIGHTS: SAN ANTONIO SPURS

We don’t need an excuse to cheer on the Silver & Black, but they provide dozens anyway with theme nights where Coyote often dresses for the occasion and the Hype Squad delivers specially curated shows during breaks. Whether Bobblehead giveaways (anyone else snag a David Robinson figurine?), military appreciation games (the next is March 10), Pride Night, Hispanic Heritage Night (March 17) or Fiesta nights (the last two are scheduled March 17 and 29). spurs.com

Best Free Fun: Pearl × Best Hike or Bike Trail: Mission Reach × Best Museum: McNay Art Museum

BEST REASON TO HEAD DOWNTOWN: CENTRO SAN ANTONIO

It has been around for 40 years, but Centro is more invaluable than ever. Along with its longtime work to keep downtown clean, it’s now also responsible for fun downtown events, retail pop-ups and culture. It has helped bring 45 pieces of public art downtown through its Art Everywhere initiative, partnered with The Rotary Club to present an ice skating rink in Travis Park the last two winters, activated Peacock Alley with music, movies and more; and now is bringing life to “La Zona,” a courtyard near Texas Public Radio on Commerce Street. centrosanantonio.org

BEST TOURIST EXPERIENCE FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS SUP ON THE MUSEUM REACH

Take in a different view of the Pearl, the Museum Reach and Donald Lipski’s overhead F.I.S.H. sculptures by hopping on a standup paddle board or into a kayak. Rentals offered by Mission Adventure Tours each March through October include the SUP or kayak, the required life jacket and two hours of time to explore. Whether you cool off with a splash from your paddle or a tumble from your board, the experience is one you’ll only have in San Antonio. mat-tx.com

BEST EVENT CALENDAR: SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

Need something to do? We guarantee the San Antonio Botanical Garden has you covered with their extensive event lineup. From adults-only cooking classes and “Foodie Cinema” outdoor movie nights to gardening workshops, guided tours, cocktailmaking classes, bird-watching tours and family-friendly fests, the garden is serious when it says it’s for everyone. Sign up for a membership so you can frequent the grounds and receive discounted rates on special events. sabot.org

Best Music Venue: Paper Tiger × Best Park: Phil Hardberger Park × Best Spa: Hiatus Spa + Retreat

OF THECITY2023

BEST STAYCATION: HOTEL VALENCIA

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk checks all the boxes for a San Antonio staycation: direct Riverwalk access, walking distance to the Majestic and Empire theatres and other downtown hotspots, plus on-site amenities that are worth planning a stay around. From Naranja, the River Walk’s only tequila bar, to regular live entertainment and Dorrego’s, a small but worthwhile Argentinian-inspired restaurant, this hotel has a luxury feel with an approachable price point. hotelvalencia-riverwalk.com

BEST PLACE FOR REPEAT FAMILY FUN: THE DOSEUM

There are reasons to hold memberships to every museum in town, but The DoSeum is the clear priority if you have little ones. With 68,000 square feet of interactive space and two outdoor play areas, there is fun to find for every age no matter how many times you’ve visited before. From its permanent Spy Academy, DJ station and “Force Course” ball room to temporary exhibits, some of which its staff create in-house, the nonprofit is succeeding in its mission to prove that learning while doing is fun. thedoseum.org

BEST COMEBACK: TASTING TEXAS WINE + FOOD FESTIVAL

After skipping its annual fest in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, Culinaria reinvented its big event in the best of ways by partnering with the James Beard Foundation last fall for a long weekend of dinners, downtown tasting events and more featuring top chefs from both San Antonio and around the state. Our appetites are already counting down to the return of the event later this year. culinariasa.org

BEST HIKE FOR ANY AGE: JOE JOHNSTON ROUTE AT GOVERNMENT CANYON STATE NATURAL AREA

This state natural area on the far Northwest Side is a popular spot for families largely because of the 110 million-year-old dinosaur tracks you can trek to see, and we understand the appeal. The 5.7-mile Joe Johnston Route that takes you to the tracks is listed as moderate because of some uneven rocks, which also means it’s not stroller, wagon or pet accessible. The bumps are worth the trouble though. Just make sure to pick a day when it hasn’t rained recently as the trail closes after heavy rainfall and the tracks can fill with water. tpwd.texas.gov/ state-parks/government-canyon

BEST UNDER-THE-RADAR FESTIVAL: SEVEN SEAS FOOD FEST AT SEAWORLD

Anyone who holds the unappetizing stereotype of theme park food being exclusively corn dogs and fries should prepare for a pleasant surprise this spring. This fest at SeaWorld (open select dates from March 23 through May 21 this year) includes generous samples of cuisine from 10 different regions plus special entertainment. Purchase a punch lanyard or pay as you go when you see something tempting at a booth around the park. seaworld.com/ san-antonio

Women to Watch

San Antonio Magazine salutes the many local women affecting change and making waves in their industries. We support and highlight female entrepreneurs and business leaders with this annual Women to Watch special advertising section. Get to know some of the phenomenal women leading San Antonio in the following pages.

Dr. Natalie Pennington

Cosmetic Dentistry of San Antonio

Dr. Natalie Pennington is a quintessential artist of cosmetic dentistry. Her passion for aesthetics and demand for the best at every level brings a new standard into the dental world. Her level of care and compassion for each of her patients is exceptional, and she is dedicated to providing the best experience.

Committed to excellence, Dr. Pennington has completed curriculum at Spear Education and Aesthetic Advantage while training next to world renowned cosmetic dentist Dr. Larry Rosenthal. She is also an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry.

She believes treatment should start with a thorough, comprehensive exam that includes all aspects of aesthetics and function, identifying issues and concerns, and becoming your partner in wellness, function and beauty. She understands how dental work may bring about feelings of anxiety and stress and she effectively brings calmness and reassurance to those she treats.

Dr. Pennington is excited to bring the best smiles out of Cosmetic Dentistry of San Antonio and it is her pleasure to serve her patients and their needs.

COSMETICDENTISTRYOFSA.COM

210-493-9944

16530 HUEBNER ROAD, STE. 301 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78248

Cynthia Eva Hujar Orr

Cynthia Eva Hujar Orr has attained national prominence defending citizens and entities in state and federal trial and appellate courts. She has earned the profound respect of her colleagues who elected her to chair of the American Bar Association (ABA) Criminal Justice Section in 2014. She is currently president of the International Society for the Reform of Criminal Law, which is meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, in June 2023.

In the local community, Cynthia is a member of the San Antonio Bar Association and the SABA Federal Courts Committee. She is also the CJA Panel Rep for the Western District of Texas and is on the San Antonio Bar Association’s Federal Courts Committee – Criminal Law.

Cynthia is listed in The Best Lawyers in America as recognized by BL Rankings and is listed as the Best 100 Trial Lawyers in Texas by The National Trial Lawyers. She has an AV rating by Martindale Hubbell.

A 1979 undergraduate of the University of Texas at Austin and 1988 graduate of St. Mary’s University Law School, Cynthia began her career clerking for retired Fifth Circuit Judge Emilio Garza when he was on the District Court bench in San Antonio. She is proficient in trial, appeals, writs of habeas corpus, petitions for discretionary review, writs of certiorari, mandamus, prohibition and corum nobis. Her breadth of experience with each vehicle compliments her other strengths, making her a strong and experienced advocate.

210-226-1463

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Brooklynn Chandler Willy & Yvette Villanueva Barrera

Texas Financial Advisory

Texas Financial Advisory approaches financial planning from a team perspective. You provide us your perspective and financial priorities; Texas Financial Advisory provides data, expert analysis, and feedback illustrating your financial options and realistic outcomes. Working with you, we help you define your financial goals, create your TFA Financial Roadmap to accomplish your goals, and adjust the plan as things change. As a Registered Investment Advisory firm, we have a fiduciary duty to you. While some in our industry may make money selling you financial products, our financial planning services are fee-based. That means you pay us for our time and expertise—your success is our goal. When working with clients and making recommendations, we focus on topics and strategies that we believe are foundational for long term success. You can tune into the Texas Financial Advisory Radio Show each week on WOAI 1200AM, airing on Saturdays at 6 p.m. and Sundays at 10 a.m., and KTSA 550AM/107.1FM, airing Sundays at 1 p.m. Or watch the Texas Financial Advisory television show that airs each week on youtube. com/@texasfinancialadvisory.

TEXASFINANCIALADVISORY.COM

BROOKLYNNTEXASFINANCIAL ADVISORY.COM

YOUTUBE.COM/@TEXAS FINANCIALADVISORY FACEBOOK.COM/ TEXASFINANCIALADVISORY

20650 STONE OAK PKWY., STE. 100 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78258

524 S. SEGUIN ST., NEW BRAUNFELS, TX 78130

Investment advisory services offered through Queen B Advisors, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, which does business as (d/b/a) Texas Financial Advisory. Insurance products, tax preparation services, and estate planning services are offered through Texas Insurance Advisory, Texas Tax Advisory, and Texas Estate Advisory, respectively, all of which also do business as Texas Financial Advisory. Insurance products, tax preparation, and estate planning are offered separate from investment advisory services. Neither Queen B Advisors nor Texas Financial Advisory offer tax or legal advice.

The Gallery: Culture Commons at Plaza de Armas

The Artist: Alain Boris Gakwaya

The Work: “Second Home”

TO ALAIN BORIS GAKWAYA, NOTHING SAYS TEXAS QUITE LIKE AN OVERSIZED SWEET TEA, A SPURS fan and a guy on a horse. The Rwanda native moved to San Antonio for college and to be near local missionaries who became like parents to him when they were living in his hometown. And while some stereotypes of America have not proven true, the idea of a large drink, the occasional horse sighting, and avid basketball fans, ring true. The images are all part of his painting “Second Home,” which is on display alongside its counterpart, “Childhood Memories,” in the exhibition Between Yesterday & Tomorrow: Perspectives from Black Contemporary Artists of San Antonio. Open through Nov. 17 in the city’s Culture Commons gallery, the exhibit spotlights 17 local Black artists who use various mediums to tell stories of Black history, identity, resilience, spirituality and personal experience. Curator Barbara Felix, a San Antonio native and artist, says when the artists’ work was all assembled together, it was even more powerful than she imagined. “The goal was to drive the collective vision of Black contemporary artists as documentarians of the historical and social conscience of their time,” she says. Gakwaya says seeing his paintings hang alongside work by artists he’s come to admire is proof that hard work can pay off. “It’s very inspiring to be in the same room,” he says. “I came here without even speaking English, and I’ve never stopped working.”—Kathleen

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