CRAY CRAY
Mudbug mania bubbles up in Southtown for annual Battle of the Boil
A mess of mudbugs from 3 Star Bar
One word of advice: Although breaking out springtime pastels at the Battle of the Boil is tempting, don’t do it. Plenty of napkins will be scattered across the event, but some spice will inevitably end up on shirttails. Embrace your inner goth with an all-black ensemble, embark in nautical navy, or bogart all the tie-dye in your household.
Now that the stain-concealing look has been selected snag a ticket to the Saint City Culinary Foundation's annual fundraiser on March 4, 1-5 pm. After moving to the Espee in 2022, this year, the event is heading back to Southtown at the Arsenal. An all-star of indie chefs will present unique takes on mudbugs in hopes of being crowned the ultimate winner.
Notables like Paul Morales, Matt Garcia, Justin Richardson, Nekoa Moss, and Halston Connella will be among the 11 chefs battling for bragging rights. A panel of culinary enthusiasts will be judging the creations, including Amor Eterno owner Aaron Peña, The San Antonio Current’s Nina Rangel, The San Antonio Express-News’ Paul Stephen, and myself.
The crawdad victor will join an informal hall-of-fame, including last year’s winner Joshua Calderon of 3 Star Bar, and the inaugural champion James Canter of Guerilla Gourmet.
In addition to enjoying samples of all the boils, guests can enjoy an old-fashioned block party atmosphere, complete with live music. The $50 ticket price, available here, is all-inclusive of food and beverages. Parking is limited, so organizers encourage guests to use ride-share alternatives.
Proceeds will benefit Saint City’s programs. In addition to promoting the local culinary scene through events like the Battle of the Boil and frequent dinners, the nonprofit advocates for hospitality industry employees through programs like Heard. What are a few stains when you are supporting the community?
The car is almost as famous as its driver.