Open Secret

Playful San Antonio bar debuts 'secret' back space accessible by token

Pink Shark secret bar's cocktails in San Antonio

The back bar has a different menu and a tequila-of-the-month program.

Photo courtesy of Pink Shark

Another open secret is floating around San Antonio with the launch of Pink Shark's "secret bar." The artsy and well-regarded downtown cocktail bar has expanded into a new room in its existing space, opting to keep this one semi-exclusive by requiring a token — that isn't that hard to get — to open the door.

Patrons in Pink Shark may notice a vending machine, followed by a few people disappearing into it. Getting in isn't quite as simple as walking up and asking, but it's close: They'll have to check the bar's Instagram story to get the daily password, which can be traded in for a token that is then fed into the machine. Some people will also get tokens from the Pink Shark mascot, who may be found wandering around downtown.

Although the secret isn't exactly airtight, there is some benefit to the minor exclusivity. It's at least harder for unaware passersby to stumble in after a few drinks and a whim, and it's one layer removed from the bustling outside world. And of course, then there's the novelty.

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On the other side of the door is a 70's inspired space with a shark-shaped disco ball, plush leather and velvet bench seats, fun lighting, and heavy pink curtains. The cocktail menu is different from the more public facing bar, and snacks further enhance the hangout. Most important are ornate buttons on the wall for ordering tequila shots with a single touch. These will rotate on a monthly basis.

Tequila button at Pink Shark's secret room in San Antonio "Push for tequila," says the button.Photo courtesy of Pink Shark

"I would describe it as a modern take on the 70s vibe with disco influences and plenty of fun interactive elements," said Pink Shark co-owner Jessica Marinez.

The team is also bringing some lively programming to the space, like live music by bands, DJs, and even karaoke sessions. On August 10 it'll also kick off a Zodiac party series with themed menus, flash tattoos, tarot card readings, and DJ sets. Those will happen on the second Saturday of each month.

Pink Shark secret bar interior The back space looks appropriately cozy for a secret bar...if you close the curtains.Photo courtesy of Pink Shark

Pink Shark is located at 203 N. Presa St. The back bar is now open Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 7 pm to 2 am. The front bar is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3 pm to midnight, and Thursdays through Sundays from 3 pm to 2 am. More information is available at pinksharkbar.com. Find the token password on Instagram.

Better Days, Same Burgers

Shuttered San Antonio burger joint stages surprising comeback

Teddy B's/Facebook

Teddy B's has made a surprise comeback.

Like sands through the hourglass, so are the days of Teddy B's life. In October, the popular burger joint shuttered its decade-old location on Babcock Road, grieving a loss of foot traffic and rising costs. On November 20, the spot revealed a plot twist. The owners are now slinging patties at 9903 Fredericksburg Rd.

"Dear Teddy B's customers, we have good news," the restaurant posted on social media. "We are back in business...We are waiting for our new sign, but we are up and running."

The unexpected comeback is the culmination of a tumultuous year for the business. As the restaurant marked its 10-year milestone this summer, the outlook was much darker. On August 4, the restaurant took to social media to warn that closure could be imminent. A traffic decline affected Teddy B's ability to maintain its affordable price point.

The messaging worked, at least in the short term. Days later, the restaurant reported an increase in business. The marketing language was hopeful until October 13, when the restaurant abruptly announced it was closing for good.

The news of Teddy B's rebirth came just as suddenly. After a month-long social media silence, the restaurant announced it had taken over the former home of Burger Haven. The latter restaurant was little known, appearing to operate mainly as a ghost kitchen.

Assumably, burgers will be back on the menu, but it is unclear whether other favorites will be eliminated to streamline the operation. The business has not posted any revisions, and its website is down at press time.

The burger joint's comeback manifests as other shuttered legacy restaurants like The Lion and Rose and Fratello's have staged their own returns. While Teddy B's has offered no reasoning for getting back into the game, it is a testament to the resiliency of San Antonio's culinary community.

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