NEWS YOU CAN EAT
Thai and Tex-Mex shutters stain San Antonio restaurant news
Don Benito's Cocina y Cantina will soon shutter
San Antonio’s revolving restaurant door keeps on spinning as two restaurants call it a day and two eateries rush in to take their place. What inertia will mean for the local hospitality industry is unclear, but the market continues to be unkind to legacy concepts.
Openings and closings
After three years in business, Tex-Mex joint Don Benito’s Cocina y Cantina will shutter on May 19. The Southeast San Antonio spot was the newest project from prolific local restaurateurs Lisa and Benny Costello, the owners of Hometown Burger, Mr. C’s Fried Chicken & Waffles, and Tia’s Taco Hut, among others. The owners broke the news via social media, giving no reason for the sudden move.
A go-to Thai restaurant is also throwing in the towel. Thai Taste, a Northwest San Antonio favorite for almost 30 years, announced the closure via a Facebook statement. Although no reason for the abrupt shutter was given, the post did offer hope. “This is not a final goodbye, but a brief pause as we explore solutions and pathways to reopen our doors in the near future,” the owners wrote.
In brighter news, a new Italian sandwich shop is now serving Brooks City Base. Focaccia Miadebuted May 14 inside La Unica Cocina Mexicana at 2622 Goliad Rd. Both are the work of Chef Miguel Cortez, who also operates Birotes Tortas Ahogadas on the West Side. Guests can expect pastas, artisanal pizzas, and traditional sandwiches made on house-baked bread.
A new burger joint appears to be sliding into a former Subway at 23503 Hardy Oak Blvd #105. A concept called Thatta Boy Burgers, not to be confused with chef Chris Cullum’s lauded Attaboy, has applied for a wine and malt beverage permit with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Little else is known about the company, which applied for a trademark in March.
Other news and notes
One of San Antonio’s most popular restaurants has disrupted the brunch routine of its many fans. Via Instagram, NOLA Brunch and Beignetssaid it was taking a hiatus as it prepares to move to its new 1101 Broadway home. The opening date for that location has yet to be announced, although a May 14 update promised a “big announcement” was coming soon.
Fresh off the heels of introducing its latest concept, fancy rooftop bar Lunatique, the Creamery District is staging a Latte Art Throwdown on May 23. The event is free to attend, but competition registration is $15. The party's planners recommend RSVPing in order to get a raffle ticket.
