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 weekly roundup of essential food news.

Openings and closings

As locally owned businesses like Carnitas Lonja, Sari Sari Supper Club, and Sangria on the Burg crumble, national chains are still eyeing Alamo City as a new frontier. While waiting for a planned Leon Springs location to open, California-based brand Fatburger will break ground on a third location at 11075 Interstate 10 #306. Though a fast-casual concept, Fatburger's schtick is making everything from scratch. Construction is set to wrap up in August 2024.

Meanwhile, New York ice cream purveyor Abbott's Frozen Custard is planting the flag for its first San Antonio shop. According to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) records, the 8203 Talley Rd. build-out will be completed in May 2024. Though the company's signature flavors are limited to just three varieties, they can be made into more than a dozen sundaes.

Plans for the area's newest food hall are moving full steam ahead. In January, The Yard owners Denise Andersen, Justin Andersen, and Esther Pacheco went before the Historic Design and Review Commission for conceptual approval for the outdoor venue. Now, TDLR filings state that construction will be completed in August 2024.

Two of Houston Street's vacant buildings will soon be brought back to life. Signage promises that the former home of Maddy McMurphy's Irish Sports Bar at 420 E Houston St. will be the home of a concept called The Rose. A block away at 515 E. Houston St., DV8 Nightclub will soon be thumping. Only the latter appears to have established a social media presence, although its website is expired.

After a brief six-month run, San Antonio's sole location of Dirty Dough has shuttered. Via the San Antonio Restaurants Facebook group, local operator Jalon Miyasaki blamed the exit on "slow business." The false start isn't keeping another entrepreneur from joining the franchise race. According to the company website, a new store is in the works at 0722 Potranco Rd. #106.

Other news and notes

The Third Coast Cocktail Summit, Culinaria's replacement for the now-defunct San Antonio Cocktail Conference, is preparing for a well-lubricated second year. The week-long event will take place January 9-13 and feature seminars, happy hours, tastings, and late-night parties. Tickets are on sale for the educational portion and closing disco-themed cocktail party at the Witte Museum.

Pioneering restaurateur Chrissy Anthony has passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. Sea Island Shrimp House paid tribute to their cofounder in a heartfelt Instagram post, remembering her indomitable spirit and hands-on approach. All eight chain locations will be closed on December 7 in honor of her memory.

The Northwest Military Highway location of The Hayden is celebrating Festivus early. From 5 pm to 9 pm on December 14, the restaurant will celebrate the Seinfeldian holiday with an airing of grievances, a fat-free yogurt bar, drink specials, and trivia. Those who come dressed as Jerry, Elaine, Kramer, or George will receive 50 percent off their entrée. Restaurant officials have not confirmed whether there will be soup for you.