SA LoveList 2019 Favorite Things To Do in San Antonio
We’ve reached the end of a decade and it couldn’t be more exciting! I’m beyond grateful for each and every one of you who come and spend some time on the website reading around all the things I have to show you! From hidden spots to the best Instagram spots for your feed- I’m here to continue to serve you the whole meal. So here’s my yearly review of my favorite things. I didn’t unfavorite anything from last year. I just decided to write version two. These are my salovelist-approved spots and places you can find me in the wild.
Favorite Eats:
Overall these spots cannot fail me at all. The whole menu is fire and they go above and beyond to make your experience fire.
Toro Kitchen + Bar
You know how they say you go to a spot because of the food but return because of the service? That’s how I feel about Toro. They totally pass the vibe check and who can say no to tapas?
Benjie’s Munch
I don’t know if there could be a more perfect menu? Seriously- this happening lunch spot is fire. Everything is executed to the highest quality and it’s soooo good I’m hooked. I just wish they were closer to my house.
Sari-Sari
I’ll tell you always, “don’t sleep on Filipino food,” I mean it. Granted it might sound intimidating but they’re the nicest people in the world and they’ll set you up. I’m personally a huge fan of sisig and lechon but starting with something easy like pancit or chicken adobo will never fail you.
Favorite Drinks
Green Latifah from Urth
Are you drinking your colors? Well, do you know what I mean by that? I’m so sure about y’all but I really like drinking green smoothies. It’s not because of anything healthy either. It’s me imagining I’m a kid drinking some secret serum to become a superhero. My logic is fire.
Sangria from Pontotoc Vineyard
I know I said Toro was one of my fave spots in the city so by default you’d assume it’s got my fave sangria. That, in fact, is a lie. My fave is actually about 1.5 hours north of SA in Fredericksburg. It’s so refreshing and delish.
Texa Cola- Southside Soda
WTF is craft soda, you say? It’s the best way to consume sodas. You know how some people kick back with a bottle of beer after a long day? I curl up with a bottle of this pop and watch some Vanderpump Rules. It’s the perfect cure for “one of those days.”
Favorite Bites
Oyster Mushrooms from Kuriya at Cherrity Bar
I have no idea what makes these so perfect. I crave them like 99% of the time and from the sounds of it- they’re so easy to make. I legit will order two orders just to keep eating them.
The Bird from ChiChi Birds
This could be the most perfect thing served on a plate and it’s available late night now. ChiChiBirds has this tenders, fries and slaw plate that is a gift from the food gods. Dead ass I hate all slaw- except this one. I could seriously eat it straight up.
Chicken on a Stick at Fiesta Oyster Bake
Some food is tied to great memories other food is tied to being dipped in Jalapeno juice. This is both.
Fried Mushrooms from Auslander in Fredericksburg
Something about these just work. They’re perfectly battered and fried, paired with ranch and don’t lose their coating after being dipped or whatever.
Barbacoa Quesadilla from La Casa Azul de Andrea
I dunno if revealing this will make me lose credibility or make me gain some but I’m not a fan of barbacoa- except the one from this Southtown spot. The barbacoa quesadilla is sooo craveable and it’s topped with a secret spice making this one of my favorite bites in the city.
Favorite Patios
Hanzo
Late-night convos outside. I can bring my dog. ‘Nuff said
Maverick Brasserie
I like an enclosed patio that is covered in flora. I also like sounding like they’re extra fancy. These things go together. Let’s meet on the patio for brunch- you tell me when and I’ll be there.
Favorite Sweets
Bacon donut from The Art of Donut
I need to make known that I’m also not a fan of sweets. So if AoD would ever serve straight fried dough- that would be my favorite. I mean if they’d ever collab with the pizza shop next door I wouldn’t complain either. In the meantime, I’ll settle for happiness with their bacon donut.
Pan Dulce from Mario’s Bakery
If you’re one of those weirdos that likes pan dulce with the orange hint flavor. We cannot be friends but if you’re willing to put your tastes aside. Come through. I’ll show you the world of wonderful imagination. You’ll have to go there directly but it’s one place I will fight for.
Che from Tropic Cup San Antonio
So I don’t know how to order Pho at all. I have friends to help me because I don’t know what I like. I need help- I know. But finding Che has been the best gift I’ve ever found in my entire life. It’s basically shaved ice with a whole lot of different toppings and it is life.
La Dulceria on Basse Rd
Ever since I found this spot- I no longer have to travel to Mexico to get my goods. I mean I still have to go to Mexico for the magic but finding a reliable candy hookup is what you really need. La Dulceria has the latest in Mexican candy trends so you’re never missing out.
Favorite Spots
This exact location. It’s the best view of the city. You’ll have to find some street parking to see it but trust me it’ll be worth it.
Every Single Bathroom in the St Anthony’s Hotel
Circa the early 2010s the pinnacle time of bathroom selfies is why I adore these bathrooms. It’s one of my favorite hobbies during the San Antonio Cocktail Conference.
Barbaro
You know how you have a spot that you always end up going because the food is good and the drinks are great? That’s Barbaro for me. She passes the vibe check and chances are if you’re looking for me I’m already there.
Favorite Events
Wings and Beer Festival by EG Collaborations
If wings are your game then this is the event for you! I literally got like 10+ wings and beer and hand tons of fun. Only downside is the lack of bleu cheese. I guess everyone is team ranch. It’s okay, I’m not dip shaming.
The Derby Event held at Seersucker Distillery
This one is a little weird. I mostly go because sitting outside and hanging out with my dog is what makes this event worthwhile. Not to mention the great cocktails, fun games and we get to watch the Kentucky Derby.
Nights at SoFar Sounds
If you’ve been following me for a while then you’ll know I love secret anything. Secret shows, secret menus, secret spots. The good thing about SoFar is that anyone has the chance to make the list. All you gotta do is apply and wait. It’s a lot of fun and the events take place in different areas around town including homes, businesses, and whatever cool spots exist.
These are my top favorite spots. I ride for them all day. But if you’re looking to make your own favorites list, follow my san antonio food instagram for your own inspiration.
