San Antonio Celebrates Neighborhood Restaurants at Tastemaker Awards

News Summary

The CultureMap Tastemaker Awards will honor San Antonio’s beloved neighborhood eateries on April 10 at the Briscoe Museum. The nominees for Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year highlight the diverse culinary offerings of the city. Local restaurants face challenges, but the community continues to support them. Don’t miss the awards ceremony and special Valentine’s Day events planned by several local eateries.

San Antonio Celebrates Its Neighborhood Eats with Tastemaker Awards

San Antonio is buzzing with excitement as the annual CultureMap Tastemaker Awards ceremony is just around the corner! Scheduled for April 10 at the fabulous Briscoe Museum, this year’s theme delves deep into the city’s beloved neighborhood restaurants, which many consider to be the heart and soul of San Antonio’s vibrant culinary scene.

Spotlight on Favorite Local Eateries

The nominees for Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year have been announced, showcasing an impressive lineup that reflects the city’s diverse flavors and warm community spirit. Here are some highlights:

• Beacon Hill Market & Deli – Run by the dynamic duo, Matt McLaughlin and Maray McChesney, this charming deli brings blue-collar charm mixed with mouth-watering comfort food like cheesesteaks and scrumptious cannolis.
• Bistr09 – This French eatery created by husband-and-wife team, Damien and Lisa Astorga-Watel, offers a laid-back vibe with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients that will make your taste buds dance.
• Con Huevos Tacos – Known for its fluffy tortillas and electrifying salsa, this taco spot in Dignowity Hill has established itself as a must-visit destination for taco lovers.
• Cullum’s Attagirl – Step into this rustic gem in Tobin Hill where nostalgic eats meet refreshing frozen cocktails, offering a countryside-inspired dining experience.
• Full Belly Cafe & Bar – With an all-day menu that sounds almost too good to be true, you can indulge in everything from gourmet black truffle mussels to hearty breakfast options.
• Garcia Barbecue – What started as a beloved pop-up is now a family-friendly barbecue haven famed for its brisket and signature smoked queso nachos.
• Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas – Recently relocated, this restaurant stays true to its roots by serving up traditional Puerto Rican dishes in an inviting, tropical setting.
• Outlaw Kitchens – If you’re looking for a cozy, home-style dining experience, this Alta Vista locale has got you covered, hosted by the friendly faces of Paul Sartory and Peggy Howe.
• Reese Bros Barbecue – Open three days a week, this joint is gaining a loyal following for its hearty barbecue plates and signature side dishes.
• The Hayden – A modern Jewish deli that merges chic aesthetics with delicious drinks, perfect for a night out that you can share all over social media.

Don’t Miss Out on the Ceremony

Early bird tickets for the awards are available for just $60 (general admission) and $99 (VIP). But hurry, because prices will go up after March 12! Plus, a portion of the ticket sales will support Culinaria, a fantastic nonprofit dedicated to the culinary arts.

New Eateries on the Horizon

Adair Kitchen is set to take over the location previously occupied by Jim’s Restaurant, while Los Tios will fill the space once held by La Madeleine, bringing traditional Tex-Mex cuisine to the neighborhood.

Valentine’s Day Treats

• Mare e Monte – Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. for first-come, first-served customers, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic outing.
• Curry Boys BBQ – They’ll be serving up a delightful Valentine’s Day barbacoa special to spice up your celebration.
• The Hayden – Offering a tempting three-course menu to wow your date.
• Amor Eterno – Hosting a love-filled music and dining event.
• Costa Pacifica Margarita Garden – Indulge in a prix-fixe menu followed by enticing after-dinner drinks.
• Mezquite – A five-course dining experience paired with live music, perfect for impressing your partner.
• La Panaderia – Special treats just for Valentine’s Day lovers!
• Pumpers – Hosting a themed party for both singles and couples.
• Ro-Ho Pork and Bread – Celebrating with award-winning tortas ahogadas.
• Louie’s Ice House – Running a mixer event with drink specials to keep the festivities going.

Supporting Local Favorites

It’s important to remember that local restaurants are facing challenges like rising costs and staff shortages. But the community is showing fantastic support for beloved establishments like Bud Jones Restaurant, proving that San Antonio really has each other’s backs!

Get ready for a culinary celebration this April and don’t forget to show love to your favorite local spots. Happy dining!

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Additional Resources

• CultureMap San Antonio
• Wikipedia: San Antonio cuisine
• San Antonio Current: Acadiana Cafe Returns
• Google Search: Acadiana Cafe San Antonio
• San Antonio Express-News: National Margarita Day
• Google Scholar: National Margarita Day History
• CultureMap Houston
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tex-Mex cuisine
• CultureMap San Antonio: YouTube Weissman
• Google News: San Antonio Burnt Bean Co