A NEW HAUNT
Historic San Antonio hotel debuts first concept under lauded new chef

Anacacho will feature chef Leo Davila's signature dishes.
After a month of anticipation, former Stixs and Stone chef Leo Davila has finally revealed his first concept for San Antonio’s St. Anthony Hotel: Anacacho Coffee & Cantina will open May 9 at 300 E. Travis St.
Anacacho will serve two purposes for the storied downtown property. The spot will focus on a coffee program in the morning in partnership with local roaster Pulp Coffee. Caffeinated offerings like cortados and cappuccinos will be made on a Mavam espresso machine — built by a Pacific Northwest company beloved by coffee cultists.
Later in the day, the space will transform into a casual cocktail bar inspired by the hotel’s rich history. The Wildflower Aperitif, with cognac, bitter cordial, and vermouth, nods to a post-wedding visit from Lady Bird Johnson. Alamo City Southside, a sparkling concoction of bubbles and Cucumber vodka, harkens back to the property’s bygone debutante balls.
Davila’s menu complements both uses of the space. Mornings start with pastries, egg sandwiches, and yogurt parfaits before switching to an all-day menu. Signature dishes include Mexican street-style corn with green goddess, roasted pecans, and chili powder and three variations of bao: pork belly, fried chicken, and barbacoa. Those worried that the James Beard Award semifinalist was done with Big Red and Barbacoa need not fret. The signature taco is making a comeback at Anacacho.
“At Anacacho, we’ve created a menu that speaks the same language as the bar and coffee programs — intentional, layered, and full of character,” Davila says in a press release. “Just like a well-crafted cocktail or a specialty roast, each dish is rooted in quality ingredients and thoughtful technique.”
In addition to the revamped menu, the space will have a brand-new look inspired by the concept’s namesake, Anacacho Ranch in West Texas. San Antonio designer and HGTV host Kim Wolfe outfitted the bar with wood, leather, and terracotta accents, vintage objets d’art, and a centerpiece 1936 Harry Anthony DeYoung painting.
The incoming hospitality projects have been the subject of much local speculation since chef Stefan Bowers parted ways with Rebelle and Haunt following a management takeover from Crescent Hotels and the concepts were subsequently closed. A day after announcing Stixs & Stone would shutter, Davila was named as the executive chef of St. Anthony's incoming restaurant concepts.
After its debut on May 9, Anacacho will be open from 6 am-11 pm Monday through Thursday, and 6 am- midnight on weekends. The all-day menu will be available after 11 am each day.