I moved to San Antonio from Austin just before high school. I love going back to see my family, stuff my face with tamales and queso (and margaritas) and stop into my favorite shops. The city has changed so much, and I really enjoyed experiencing the new flavor during this trip. The first thing Scott and I did when we got into town was meet my dad AKA Daddy Rip at my favorite quirky health-Mex joint, Adelante. The cash only restaurant is super laid-back, colorful and serves delicious fare. I’m obsessed with the Poblano soup and veggie quesadillas. Rip always orders the Summer Plate. This is a must when you’re in town.
After noshing, we went to my dad’s place to hang. Scott and him hadn’t met in person yet—just over Skype, so it was pretty fun to see them interact. Daddy Rip played the guitar and sang for us, which was a real treat. I grew up watching him play in blues clubs, and I relish these moments. His go-to’s are Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and of course, Stevie Ray Vaughan. Speaking of Stevie, my favorite story my dad tells about him goes like this: He met Stevie in a bar years ago, where he bought him a round of drinks and got his autograph on a bar napkin. While at work the next morning, my dad freaked out when he realized he left the napkin at the bar! He went back to the bar and dug through the dumpsters until he found that golden napkin. He framed it and has always had it on display understandably. Sigh. Rip is so cool.
Later that day, we met up with my cousin, her husband, their adorable twins and my aunt and uncle. They are a hilarious bunch full of love. Time spent with them is like gold to me. They took Scott and I to a new place called the Luxury. What a great spot! It gave me an education in how cool San Antonio has become. (Though it was never short on cool places.) The resto is primarily an outdoor space, with the kitchen and bar housed in large shipping containers. You must try the spicy chicken Sriracha sammie and the fries. Ohhhh the fries! (Thanks for the tip, Mariah!) Their collection of local beers is also quite impressive/bad ass. The vibe is super chill and relaxing, with a good view of the river and boat taxis floating by.
We spent most of the next day happily hanging with family, before heading to the Pearl Brewery. What used to be just an old brewery is now a lively mix of retail and living space. Handsome new lofts are surrounded by shops and restaurants. Get caffeinated at Local Coffee, sit in the sunshine before eating at Cured, have a few sips at Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery and find the perfect pair of vintage cowboy boots at Leighelana. (And so much more, y’all.)
After working up a sweat trying on every cowboy boot in Leighelena, we stopped at El Machito for a much-needed snack. The Queso Fundido made with queso cotija, Mexican Manchego, queso Oaxaca and chorizo verde was ridiculously good. The Beer-ritas, eye candy decor and patio were an added bonus. So festive! Beinvenidos indeed.
We ended our second night in San Antonio at one of my favorite restaurants. (Yes, I have a few favorites.) I make it a point to visit Sol Luna every time I’m in town to get down on their pollo a la parilla and frozen mango margarita. Yum. Stay tuned for days 2 & 3, which you can expect to see later this week! Oh hey, dad!
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