Editor’s note: We get it. It can be difficult to keep up with the fast pace of San Antonio’s restaurant and bar scene. We have you covered with our regular roundup of essential food news.

Openings

After months of anticipation, Three Star Bar officially opened to the public at 521 E Grayson St. Owned by Boulevardier Group’s Jeret Peña, noted bartender Rob Gourlay, and former Cookhouse executive chef Josh Calderon, the new Government Hill watering hole has a ’70s rumpus room vibe with deep booths, wood paneling, and vintage signs. Burgers, sandwiches, and a creative assortment of appetizers are augmented by a full bar menu of handcrafted classics, like a crafty take on the gin and tonic with pickle brine.

Southeast Asian favorite Pinch Boil House has added another plume to its hat. According to an Instagram post, the offshoot celebrated the grand opening of its Alamo Heights location at 5130 Broadway St. on October 1. The airy eatery offers the same fresh boils and rice bowls as the downtown location, adding a larger dining room to the mix. The Rand Building original will remain open for lunch service.

Rapidly expanding Mediterranean chain Cava has planted its flag in Alamo City with its first location at 99 E. Basse Rd., #125. Opened on September 17, the fast-casual restaurant offers build-your-own salads, grain bowls, and pitas loaded with proteins, toppings, and spreads. The Washington, D.C.-based company is primed to be a big player in the San Antonio market. A release promises three more locations are on the way.

Pearl Farmers Market staple The Beignet Stand is moving to a brick-and-mortar with a shop on the Broadway corridor. The concept said via Instagram that it had started renovations on the former Baby Taco Garage space at 8343 Broadway St. The exact opening date is still unknown, but the owners are aiming for late fall/early winter.

The Espee, the most recent incarnation of the historic Sunset Station, surprised locals on September 30 by quietly announcing1902, a new nightclub in the property’s Train Depot. Details are scant, but the venue pledges “world-class music, entertainment, and cocktails” when it opens sometime in November.

Other news and notes

A Food Network digital series is now showcasing San Antonio’s Mexican heritage. Hosted by Northwest Vista College professor Keli Rosa Cabunoc Romero, The Día de los Muertos Menu explores the holiday and its vibrant culinary traditions. Episodes, filmed at West Side hangout Jaime’s Place, are streaming now on the network’s site.

Southtown eatery and event space The Good Kind is getting into the spirit of the season with a weeklong Día de los Muertos celebration from October 25 to November 2. According to a release, the festivities will feature a community ofrenda, plus local artists, musicians, food trucks, artisan makers, a poetry slam, a bingo brunch, and — of course — a pachanga.

Good gravy! Mission City manufacturer Pioneer is celebrating its 170th anniversary with a search for a chief gravy guru. Applicants must submit an original gravy recipe using Pioneer products, photos, and a brief subscription about why they should be captain of the (gravy) boat. The winner will receive bragging rights and $5,000.