The CultureMap Tastemaker Awards is an annual celebration of the top talent in the restaurant and bar industry, shining a light on the people and places that make San Antonio's dining scene so special.
For the first time this year, 16 of the best new restaurants in San Antonio will go head to head in the Tastemaker tournament, where you decide who is named the Best New Restaurant. Vote for your favorites (you can do so once a day) in the bracket-style elimination challenge now through May 16. Voting for the first bracket ends on May 7.
It's been an amazing year with so many new, delicious offerings. So before you vote, get a taste of the nominees:
5 Points Local
5 Points Local is a welcomed addition to San Antonio's health food scene. Opened in late January, this hybrid restaurant, market, and yoga studio comes together in a tasteful and intentional way. A juice and coffee bar opens for early risers, while the kitchen specializes in gluten-free dining.
Alchemy Kombucha and Culture
Kombucha drinks are all the rage, and Alchemy epitomizes the trend. From veggie-friendly delights to a great craft cocktail program, great things are happening at Alchemy. Its colorful food options range from duck fat potatoes to vegan curry.
Brigid
A partnership with Steve Mahoney, owner of Blue Box and George's Keep, this Southtown standout delivers an upscale yet unpretentious take on modern American cuisine. Each dish from Chef Justin Richardson is fresh and rich with flavor.
Edera Osteria - Enoteca
This high-end Italian concept is the newest fine dining establishment to hit the scene in what was formerly The Rose Shop in Alta Vista. Chef Chris Carlson headlines here, which means every detail is attended to, from the pasta to the pizza.
Grayze
Grayze has been heating up Grayson Street since January with a farm-chic vibe, an amazing outdoor patio, and hearty American cuisine with international sensibilities. The varied menu is delicious and definitely worth grazing.
Hearsay Urban Taste
What was once Starfish is now Hearsay, a fresh new restaurant from father-son duo Rene and Diego Fernandez that focuses on shareable plates. The concept is approachable and affordable, with fun cocktails and funky vibes.
Mezcaleria Mixtli
Mezcal comes to life with beautiful hand-crafted cocktails at Mezcaleria Mixtli. The menu at this casual offshoot from the owners of Mixtli focuses on Mexican comfort food, from chicharrones to tortas and tostadas.
O'liva
O'liva is a beautiful and affordable spot for wine flights, healthy noshes, farm-to-table fare, and Texas-made products from an in-house market. The lineup changes often, so come ready to explore new and interesting dishes.
The Old Main Assoc.
The latest stop in the empire that is the Boulevardier Group, this unique spot brings the quaint Monte Vista neighborhood a new barrage of flavors. It doesn't get much better than craft cocktails, beer, and comfort food — and The Old Main Assoc. delivers on all three.
Rebelle
Rebelle is a sophisticated and captivating space with excessive charm and refinement in The St. Anthony Hotel. Every offering is beautifully presented and prepared, bringing a whole new meaning to hotel dining and Texas-focused fare.
Shuck Shack
Chef Jason Dady's Shuck Shack is super casual and welcoming with a family-friendly playground and water stops for your canine friends. The menu includes fresh oysters, lobster rolls, creamy crab fritters, and more to satisfy seafood cravings.
Smoke the Restaurant
Smoke is a barbecue paradise with tasty sides and a sleek interior. Chef Brian West has wonderful showmanship and offers table-side deconstruction. This barbecue joint has taken Alamo City by storm with two locations — Stone Oak and downtown — in one short year.
Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery
Located in the Pearl, Southerleigh specializes in creative Texas cuisine. Every section of the menu delivers a Chef Jeff Balfour delight, from the deviled eggs to the wood-fired pretzels. There's also an in-house brewery serving up a fine selection of craft beers.
Supper
It's worth every bit of hype you've heard. Hotel Emma's flagship restaurant offers a refined farm-to-table menu built for sharing. Chef John Brand delivers in a spectacular way; each plate is meticulously created with brilliant distinction.
Toro Taco Bar
This nod to Monterrey, Mexico, is all about the tacos, with a solid drink plan. A great list of Mexican beers, craft beers, mixed drinks, and margaritas along with ample outdoor seating make this an enjoyable dining destination.
Tre Enoteca
Tre Enoteca, an Italian eatery also from Dady, boasts communal-style indoor dining and a cozy patio complete with fireplace. Pair that with a menu that keeps on giving, and you have quite the San Antonio hot spot.
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Buy tickets now to the Tastemaker Awards on May 17 at Bullock Texas State History Museum. Learn more about the event here.
The Santa Maria from Supper: grilled beef with tomato parsley, garlic chimichurri, and duck fat potatoes.
