ROYAL TREATMENT
San Antonio's official Fiesta foodie event crowns very first king and queen
Attention royal watchers! A pair of new monarchs have ascended to the throne. We suspect they’ll be less prone to tell-alls than a certain other aristocratic pair.
On April 20, Doc Watkins and Ara Celi will begin their reign as the King and Queen of the Republic. Although Taste of the Republic has wowed guests as the VIP culinary kickoff to Fiesta San Antonio for six years, this will be the event’s first coronation.
Doc Watkins is familiar to any San Antonio music lover. Not only is he an accomplished jazz pianist, but he also owns the swanky underground nightclub Jazz, TX, at the Pearl.
Ara Celi made her name in acting, snagging up roles in blockbusters like American Beauty, Machete, and Bruce Almighty. Dapper Dans across town might also know her for her chain of upscale barbershops, Matador Men’s Grooming.
The coronation adds to the electric atmosphere already promised by Taste of the Republic. The event recently announced an all-star 12 local celebrity chef, who will throw down with founding chef Brian West to serve food from the six culinary regions of Texas.
In a season of firsts, Taste of the Republic will also move to The Alamo this year, coinciding with the opening of the new Ralston Family Collections Center of historical artifacts, including the vast Alamo collection of “In the Air Tonight” singer Phil Collins.
Those wanting a sneak peek at all the excitement can join Watkins as he hosts a special performance at Jazz, TX, on March 26. A fundraiser for Fiesta San Antonio and the Remember the Alamo Foundation, the intimate event will include premium seating packages with a meet-and-greet, a signed copy of Watkin’s latest album, and bottle service. Tickets, ranging from $99-$310, are available online.