New massage center from founders of Dry Bar opens in Alamo Heights

Self care summer

Squeeze Massage

In knead of a massage? That's the witty slogan for Squeeze, the latest massage center to open in the Alamo Heights area.

So what makes it different from every other massage place in town? Besides the fact that the founders of Dry Bar are behind it, Squeeze Massage also allows the guest to personalize their massage preferences. Feel like you need more of a focus on your shoulder area, or the lower back? There's an app for that – the Squeeze Massage app, that is.

The aim of the Squeeze Massage experience is to streamline the process, from the moment a guest books an appointment to the second they leave. You can personalize preferences on the app, and pay and leave a tip on there as well. Another aspect of a Squeeze massage is quite frankly, the best one — you don't get charged for 'extras' like deep tissue, heat therapy, percussion therapy and aromatherapy. They're all options in your massage.

Essentially a haven for guests that like to control their entire spa experience from start to finish, Squeeze Massage even lets you choose your own music (from a set of six assorted playlists). Don't forget to pick your own scents for your massage from the aromatherapy bar, too.

You know that semi-awkward moment where you've prepared for your massage and you're just sitting there, waiting for your massage therapist to re-enter, but they always wait a little bit too long, but you're all comfy in your massage bed and don't want to get up to tell them you're ready? The Squeeze app has a button for that too. Your massage therapist won't re-enter your room until you press the 'ready' button on the Squeeze app.

Afterwards, you can even leave a review for your massage therapist on the app as well, so you don't have to worry about anybody waiting on you. You also don't have to wait in line to check out after your massage ends, therefore freeing up more time for the rest of your day.

If you're eager to continue on a summer of self-care, Squeeze also offers massage packages. For a monthly subscription, you'll get a discounted rate on massages, and for each membership Squeeze sells, they donate a day of support for someone with a disability through the Canine Companions program.

It's self-care for a cause.

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Scorching chicken, Wemby burgers, and Bachelorette chefs woo San Antonio food news

NEWS YOU CAN EAT

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

According to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) filings, former Bachelorette contestant Page Pressley and post-show partner DezArey Rodriguez are brewing a new coffee shop in the downtown Jefferson Bank Building. Over the summer, the couple waged a successful crowdfunding campaign for The Newstand, a concept incorporating classic American pastries, sandwiches, and a vintage shop. The project is set for completion in April 2024.

A second location of Dave's Hot Chicken will roost at 7511 S. New Braunfels Ave. on December 2. The Californian chain specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken, available in seven heat levels ranging from the wimpy spiceless option to the masochistic reaper. The company promises that six additional locations will open in the area before its reign of terror is squashed.

Growing Houston brand Mambo Seafood is building yet another San Antonio store. The Latin-tinged restaurant opened its first local outpost in August and filed paperwork for a second in November. TDLR records indicate a third Mambo is developing at 803 Castroville Rd. The construction is set to wrap up in July 2024.

Other news and notes

One of San Antonio's most spirited traditions is now in full swing. For almost a decade, Dorçol Distilling has invited premier Alamo City bars to make signature cocktails using Kinsman rakia as part of its annual Brandy Alexander Tour. For the first time this year, an Austin spot — Bacalar — is participating, joining local hot spots like Bar Loretta, Double Standard, and Ladino.

Turns out that wanting to rock and roll all night has its limits. On December 2, storied rock band KISS will perform its last-ever set at Madison Square Garden. To celebrate (or perhaps mourn), the San Antonio location of Rock & Brews invites the KISS Army and KISS Navy (the cruise-faring wing of KISS's paramilitary fandom) to enjoy the show via pay-per-view. Specials include the Demon Chicken Sandwich and the It's Cold Gin Time Again cocktail, made with the band's branded liquor.

Downtown's The Esquire Tavern will celebrate Repeal Day on December 5, marking the anniversary of the end of Prohibition. The milestone is particularly significant to the long-running bar, founded on December 6. The sprightly 90-year-old institution will mark the occasion with a party featuring live music, passed appetizers, and punch. But if going back underground holds more novelty, check out the holiday pop-up bar downstairs.

Local burger legend Chris Madrids is paying homage to the Spur's most celebrated rookie. The Wemby burger includes four beef patties, four slices of cheese, a near metric ton of toppings, and a mini-Victor Wembanyama pick (sadly not in his Slender Man Halloween get-up). Those who finish the whole thing on-site will receive a free Chris Madrids tee and a spot in the coveted Hall of Fame.

'The twinkliest town in Texas' and 6 other Hill Country locales become Christmas wonderlands

SPARKLE MOTION

Though chance encounters with childhood sweethearts rarely happen between sips of hot cocoa, feeding one's most jolly Hallmark fantasies is perfectly fine. And let's face it, those warm fuzzies aren't always easy to find amongst San Antonio's seasonal glitz. That kind of holiday feeling is a decidedly small-town affair.

If you only get fresh air from a fourth-story balcony, it's time to head on a Texas road trip. Throughout December, the Hill Country rolls out the twinkle lights and garlands to give city slickers some Christmas razzle-dazzle. Unpack a cozy sweater, cue a playlist, and fire up the sleigh.

Dripping Springs
Though much of the season is geared around kids, the many distilleries, wineries, and breweries clustered around Dripping Springs offer some holiday fun for the adults. Hire a van to bop around some of Texas' most spirited spots, including Jester King Brewery, Vista Brewing, Desert Door Sotol, and Deep Eddy Vodka. If nap time doesn't completely waylay plans, Christmas on Mercer on December 2 is the perfect place for some buzzed shopping.

Fredericksburg
With its historic buildings and rows of quaint shops, Fredericksburg always seems ready to break into an Irving Berlin ditty. During Christmastime, the streets erupt into a full production number. Through January 7, 2024, the town's market square hosts a daily lighting ceremony showcasing tales of Fredericksburg's German heritage and Christmas carols. The Marktplatz also offers an ice-skating rink and one of Texas' most dazzling selfie spots: a 26-foot tall wooden spinning Christmas pyramid.

Georgetown
Forget Stars Hollow. Rory and Lorelai Gilmore's hometown wishes it could conjure up half the Yuletide magic as this Austin suburb. Visit the weekend of December 1 and 2 to catch the annual Christmas Stroll. The town's downtown hosts a family friendly festival with vendors, live music, a parade, and plenty of festive food each year. And the Snow in the Park event ensures a White Christmas.

Johnson City
Johnson City's reputation as the "twinkliest town in Texas" isn't a mere boast. Its downtown display, illuminated through January 7, 2024, is truly a spectacle with over two million bulbs glittering in the night sky. The Blanco County Courthouse is the sparkling hub of several community events throughout the season. Don't miss the annual chili cook-off on December 9, sponsored by some of the Hill Country's best wineries and distilleries.

Marble Falls
Sure, it sounds like a third grader's fever dream, but bumper cars on ice are actually a thing in Marble Falls — offering slip-sliding fun for those who have never heard of a salchow. Less bumpy are the other activities, from a pop-up s'mores bar on December 1 to weekend market days.

New Braunfels
Maybe it's the easygoing river lifestyle, but New Braunfels has always played by its own rules. That's especially true of the holiday season when kids are delighted by visits from the chaps-clad Cowboy Kringle instead of good ole Saint Nick. That individualistic spirit carries over to the town's schedule of events, including a one-person telling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol on December 3 and caroling at the Natural Bridge Caverns.

Wimberley
This charming hamlet has no shortage of holiday diversions like the annual Trail of Lights, a walking tour running through December 26. But before the stroll, expect to open the wallet. Wimberley Square is teeming with one-of-a-kind shops selling everything from boho Western gear to French country home goods. The hospitality scene is no slouch, either. Grab a quick pie at Community Pizza or splurge on shellfish and champagne at RR12 Supper Club.

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Georgetown's downtown decked in its holiday finest.

Here are the top 7 things to do in San Antonio this weekend

Weekend Event Guide

Holly jolly happenings and live entertainment are on the schedule for the days ahead. Enjoy a tree lighting and seasonal festivities at La Cantera Resort & Spa, or settle in for an evening in conversation with Priscilla Presley. Check out the top seven things to do in San Antonio this weekend. For a complete list of events, go to our calendar.

Thursday, November 30

La Cantera Resort & Spa presents a Holiday Tree Lighting
The annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony returns to La Cantera Resort & Spa. Highlights of the evening include appearances by Santa and the Grinch, light bites, festive cocktails, children’s activities, and more. Guests will also get to enjoy a Vegas-style revue and live musical performance by jazz vocalist and saxophonist Patrick Lamb in the resort’s lobby plaza. For more details, go to lacanteraresort.com.

Photo by Marty Sohl Photography

Ballet San Antonio presents The Nutcracker now through December 10.

The Light Park
Cruise into an illuminated wonderland with millions of lights synchronized to holiday music classics with the entire family at Retama Park. The Light Park is a one-mile, drive-thru experience complete with dazzling light displays portraying the magic of the winter holiday season. For more information, go to thelightpark.com. The Light Park is open through January 1, 2024.

Majestic Theatre presents This Is Important Live!
The co-creators and stars of the popular Comedy Central show Workaholics will host their podcast, This is Important, in front of a live audience at Majestic Theatre. The group, comprised of Adam Devine, Anders Holm, Blake Anderson, and Kyle Newacheck, will dive into and discuss a myriad of not-so-serious topics facing society, ranging from naked grandmas to grown men fighting children. Pick your seats for this hilarious evening of conversation at majesticempire.com.

Friday, December 1

Somos Cultura y Más presents "Posadas y Poinsettias"
Celebrate Mexican heritage and traditions through food and educational activities at Mi Familia at the Rim. Visitors can enjoy specialty cocktails, posada games, and more while raising funds for Dia de los Niños and Somos storytellers programming. Guests will also get to take a special gift home to commemorate the evening. Get your tickets at somosculturaymas.org.

Majestic Theatre presents Elf in concert
Enjoy a holiday film favorite with a live music twist at Majestic Theatre. Guests will enjoy a screening of Elf, starring Will Ferrell, accompanied by a live-to-picture playing of John Debney’s score. Get tickets and more information at majesticempire.com.

Ballet San Antonio presents The Nutcracker
Get lost in a world of holiday wonder and whimsy when you enjoy The Nutcracker performed by the talented dancers of Ballet San Antonio. This production at Tobin Center for the Performing Arts features a children’s cast of more than 100 youth dancers, and will be accompanied by music from the San Antonio Symphony. Showtimes are scheduled through December 10. To purchase tickets, go to balletsanantonio.org.

Saturday, December 2

Empire Theatre presents An Evening with Priscilla Presley
The original first lady of rock ‘n’ roll, Priscilla Presley, comes to Charline McCombs Empire Theatre for one night only. Audience members can listen to Presley’s retelling of her teenage years, her romance and marriage to Elvis, her early years as a mother, and more. Go to majesticempire.com for more information.

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