While this year's election consumed most of the nation's bandwidth, San Antonio entrepreneurs continued investing in the city. This week brings reports of family friendly restaurants, modern Mexican innovators, and an ultra-accessible new coffee shop.
Openings and closings
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) records are bleating plans for a new $500,000 project on 14242 W. Loop 1604. A concept by Screaming Goat Yard & Tap's owners will begin construction on a two-story restaurant in January 2025, hoping to wrap up by September. The original location opened in 2021, offering live music, Southern fare, and a dog- (and goat-) friendly patio. A representative at the Spring Branch location confirmed the company is working on the new spot but could not give details.
Chela's Tacos has shuttered its 3420 N. St. Mary's #105 location in this week's round of restaurant roulette. But a new restaurant has already taken its place. Bokobá, from husband-and-wife duo Sergio Gonzalez and Maria Sanchez, quietly opened the space in early November. The latest tenant specializes in modern Mexican cuisine, combining traditional techniques with New American flourishes. Meanwhile, Chela's Broadway flagship remains open.
According to an Instagram announcement, Southtown seafood spot Little Em's Oyster Bar will settle in its new digs on November 12. In March, Carpenter Carpenter Hospitality revealed it was shuttering tony eatery Up Scale to give its coastal concept a bigger space. Meanwhile, a new concept — Beau's Tiny Diner — will be shuffling into the original Little Em's space.
A new coffee shop with a purpose is dipping into Cadillac Plaza at 14415 Blanco Rd. #110. Mermaid Cafe is dedicated to employing people with disabilities at all levels of its operations, using special equipment and instructions to make the workplace genuinely accessible. TDLR paperwork indicates that construction will wrap up by June 2025.
Hooked Boil House's long, strange trip has abruptly stopped. The Mesa, Arizona-based chain first expanded to San Antonio in February, closing its other locations in the subsequent months. The Cajun eatery has now thrown in the towel in San Antonio, informing its customers via a social media statement. The last day of business was November 5.
Other news and notes
Freetail Brewing Co. has opted out of retail distribution in the latest tremor affecting the San Antonio craft beer scene. Although the cans will no longer be available on H-E-B shelves, the company will continue brewing at its two taprooms and restaurants. "Serving San Antonio customers and this community is our priority," said Director of Operations David Olivares in a release.
