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6 things to know about San Antonio food right now: New sports bar takes over long-running spot
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
It's official. Main Strip staple Luther's Café is permanently shuttered. In October 2022, the business announced it was entertaining a buyout after a cocktail of staffing and parking issues, construction woes, and price increases forced it to temporarily close. Since then, Luther's has been mum on the matter, but Ricky Ortiz of El Camino and Bésame has now revealed the space's ultimate fate. The restaurateur spilled the beans that he has signed the lease on the building to develop a new concept, Ay Que Chula. According to an Instagram video, the sports bar will have a full kitchen and retain Luther's LGBTQ-friendly vibe. Ortiz expects the buildout to finish in 60 to 90 days.
San Antonio's small distilling scene is apparently getting a new addition. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Records indicate that Dorado Distilling has applied for a distillers and rectifiers permit. The project seems to be associated with Azar Family Brands, the makers of Seersucker Gin and TLC Vodka. Sharp observers will notice that the address (8501 Cover Rd.) is the same as the Seersucker Distillery.
Fast-casual Indian chain Tarka is preparing to make a splash near SeaWorld. According to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing, the Austin-based enterprise is set to finish construction at 9710 State Hwy 151 #107 in October. The new restaurant will be the second local outpost for the brand.
Other news and notes
Ugh. The opening of the latest Ro-Ho Pork & Bread location at 618 Fair Ave. has been delayed due to vandals. The acclaimed eatery took to Facebook to report that unknown doofuses had cut several electrical lines at the construction site. The restaurant is asking for anyone with leads to contact them.
Alamo Heights favorite Rise Up Acai Bowls has packed its blenders and moved to a new location. According to an Instagram post, the Broadway shop is now serving at 2520 McCullough Ave. near Barbaro, Lily's Cookies, and Extra Fine. The Stone Oak location remains open as usual.
Beacon Hill Market and Deli, previously a weekend operation, is now slinging sandwiches on Thursday. Beginning July 6, the operating hours will be 11 am-4 pm (or until sold out), Thursday through Sunday.