Nestled away in a quiet corner of the Pearl Brewery is Ladino, an upscale Mediterranean restaurant with consistently good food, drinks, and elegant ambience. As the restaurant rounds the corner for its one year anniversary this September, we're revisiting why its one of the best new restaurants in San Antonio (and one of our 2023 Tastemaker nominees).

Before we get to the menu, Ladino's design details lend credence to the overall experience dining at the restaurant. More than a simple dinner out, Ladino truly feels like a journey away from the hustle and bustle of the city: Wide archways allow guests to see cooks working diligently to prepare dishes like saffron chicken, lamb belly ribs, oyster mushrooms and of course, perfectly baked pita bread with hummus — among other options.

This writer's favorite dish by far was the Wagyu Denver steak. Each slice of steak was perfectly cooked to medium-rare perfection. Suffice to say the steak alone at Ladino warrants a return visit, of which we've made several.

Another refreshing aspect of Ladino is the team's dedication to ensuring that guests with food allergies are well taken care of. More often than not, eating out with allergies can be a limiting, stressful experience — not the case at Ladino. Kudos to chef Berty Richter (of the Emmer and Rye Hospitality Group) for curating a menu that features plenty of food allergy-friendly options.

As summer approaches, Ladino is now offering its first ever happy hour as well. From 5 pm to 6:30 pm Monday through Friday, guests can head to Ladino's upstairs bar and enjoy $5 off select Ladino specialty cocktails, like the Mezcal-based Matkot & Chill, the Ladino Spritz, and (available during happy hour only), the refreshing frozen Raki lemonade.

The happy hour menu also includes deals on small bites, like the aforementioned hummus plate for $8 (it's normally $14), Kabocha Squash Babaganoush for $5 (sensing a theme here? it's normally $10), and other options. The Chicken Wing Kebab, priced at $11, will only be available to order during happy hour.

Now within months of reaching its first anniversary milestone, Ladino's consistently sumptuous fare, sophisticated decor, attention to dietary needs, and overall elegant vibe make Ladino a must-visit for guests new and old alike.

Ladino is located at the Pearl at 200 E. Grayson St, No. 100