San Antonio, Texas, November 26, 2025
Hanzo, a popular Japanese-style gastropub in Alamo Heights, San Antonio, has announced a temporary closure for renovations. The establishment, known for its handcrafted cocktails and sushi, plans to reopen by January 2, 2026. Recent legal proceedings raised concerns about its ownership, coinciding with a trend of restaurant closures in San Antonio, highlighting challenges in the hospitality industry. The community looks forward to the gastropub’s return and its unique culinary offerings.
Hanzo Gastropub in San Antonio Closes for Renovations
San Antonio, Texas – Hanzo, a renowned Japanese-style gastropub located in Alamo Heights, has announced a temporary closure for renovations. A handwritten notice on its front door outlines the plan to reopen by January 2, 2026. The establishment is celebrated for its handcrafted cocktails, sushi rolls, and engaging happy hour specials.
Background of Hanzo
Founded in 2017 by Steve Mahoney, Hanzo became a staple in the local dining scene, showcasing a distinctive mix of Japanese cuisine and an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of traditional izakayas. Its diverse menu features sushi, small plates, and an array of innovative cocktails, quickly earning it a loyal customer base.
Legal Proceedings and Ownership Changes
Recent events have raised some eyebrows concerning Hanzo’s ownership structure. In June 2025, a lawsuit was filed against the LLC operating Hanzo, demanding the release of financial records to its founder, Steve Mahoney. These proceedings could influence the future of the gastropub as it navigates both legal and renovation challenges.
Recent Restaurant Closures in San Antonio
Hanzo’s hiatus contributes to a growing trend of restaurant closures in San Antonio. Notably, Carriqui at Pearl shut down on October 19, 2025, following a three-year run, and Cascabel Mexican Patio in Southtown closed its doors suddenly in July 2025, ending a notable 22-year journey. These closures signal a shifting landscape in the area’s dining options.
Industry Challenges
The Texas Restaurant Association attributes some of these closures to significant challenges facing the hospitality sector, including escalating food and labor costs alongside a marked decline in consumer spending. Acknowledging these difficulties emphasizes the importance of resilience among local entrepreneurs as they adapt to an ever-evolving market.
Looking Ahead
As Hanzo embarks on its renovation project, the community eagerly anticipates its reopening in January 2026. The establishment’s return is expected to reinvigorate the Alamo Heights dining scene, bringing back its unique offerings and high-quality experience that locals have come to love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Hanzo expected to reopen?
Hanzo is expected to reopen by January 2, 2026.
What is Hanzo known for?
Hanzo is known for its handcrafted cocktails, sushi rolls, and happy hour specials.
What is the reason for Hanzo’s closure?
Hanzo has temporarily closed for renovations.
Has Hanzo faced any legal issues recently?
Yes, in June 2025, a lawsuit was filed against the LLC operating Hanzo, requesting that the company share its financial records with Steve Mahoney, the founder of the bar.
What other restaurants have closed in San Antonio recently?
Carriqui at Pearl closed on October 19, 2025, after three years of operation. Additionally, Cascabel Mexican Patio in Southtown announced its sudden closure in July 2025, ending a 22-year run.
Key Features of Hanzo Gastropub
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Alamo Heights, San Antonio, Texas |
| Established | 2017 |
| Specialties | Handcrafted cocktails, sushi rolls, happy hour specials |
| Renovation Closure | Temporarily closed for renovations, reopening by January 2, 2026 |
| Legal Issues | Lawsuit filed in June 2025 requesting financial records from the LLC operating Hanzo |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
