NEWS YOU CAN EAT
Scorching chicken, Wemby burgers, and Bachelorette chefs woo San Antonio food news
Dave's Hot Chicken will open its second San Antonio location on December 2.
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
According to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) filings, former Bachelorette contestant Page Pressley and post-show partner DezArey Rodriguez are brewing a new coffee shop in the downtown Jefferson Bank Building. Over the summer, the couple waged a successful crowdfunding campaign for The Newstand, a concept incorporating classic American pastries, sandwiches, and a vintage shop. The project is set for completion in April 2024.
A second location of Dave's Hot Chicken will roost at 7511 S. New Braunfels Ave. on December 2. The Californian chain specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken, available in seven heat levels ranging from the wimpy spiceless option to the masochistic reaper. The company promises that six additional locations will open in the area before its reign of terror is squashed.
Growing Houston brand Mambo Seafood is building yet another San Antonio store. The Latin-tinged restaurant opened its first local outpost in August and filed paperwork for a second in November. TDLR records indicate a third Mambo is developing at 803 Castroville Rd. The construction is set to wrap up in July 2024.
Other news and notes
One of San Antonio's most spirited traditions is now in full swing. For almost a decade, Dorçol Distilling has invited premier Alamo City bars to make signature cocktails using Kinsman rakia as part of its annual Brandy Alexander Tour. For the first time this year, an Austin spot — Bacalar — is participating, joining local hot spots like Bar Loretta, Double Standard, and Ladino.
Turns out that wanting to rock and roll all night has its limits. On December 2, storied rock band KISS will perform its last-ever set at Madison Square Garden. To celebrate (or perhaps mourn), the San Antonio location of Rock & Brews invites the KISS Army and KISS Navy (the cruise-faring wing of KISS's paramilitary fandom) to enjoy the show via pay-per-view. Specials include the Demon Chicken Sandwich and the It's Cold Gin Time Again cocktail, made with the band's branded liquor.
Downtown's The Esquire Tavern will celebrate Repeal Day on December 5, marking the anniversary of the end of Prohibition. The milestone is particularly significant to the long-running bar, founded on December 6. The sprightly 90-year-old institution will mark the occasion with a party featuring live music, passed appetizers, and punch. But if going back underground holds more novelty, check out the holiday pop-up bar downstairs.
Local burger legend Chris Madrids is paying homage to the Spur's most celebrated rookie. The Wemby burger includes four beef patties, four slices of cheese, a near metric ton of toppings, and a mini-Victor Wembanyama pick (sadly not in his Slender Man Halloween get-up). Those who finish the whole thing on-site will receive a free Chris Madrids tee and a spot in the coveted Hall of Fame.
