San Antonio, November 28, 2025
San Antonio is witnessing a remarkable growth in its dining landscape with the introduction of several new restaurants that offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. Notable openings include Esencia, Soap Laundry Lounge, El Mercado, and more, each bringing unique flavors and innovative concepts to the city. This burgeoning culinary environment not only caters to the tastes of residents but also attracts visitors looking for memorable dining options. From upscale dining experiences to casual eateries, San Antonio’s food scene is thriving and evolving.
San Antonio’s Culinary Scene Expands with New Restaurant Openings
San Antonio’s dining landscape is experiencing significant growth with several new restaurant openings, offering a diverse array of culinary experiences to residents and visitors alike.
Esencia at the St. Anthony Hotel
Scheduled to open this winter, Esencia will be the new signature restaurant at the historic St. Anthony Hotel. Led by James Beard-nominated chef Leo Davila, Esencia aims to blend Spanish, Mexican, and Asian cuisines, reflecting Davila’s Mexican-Chinese heritage. The menu will feature dishes such as Carne Asada Frites, Arroz con Pollo, and Duck & Flower, complemented by a selection of creative cocktails. The restaurant’s design will incorporate Spanish influences, paying homage to San Antonio’s rich history and culture.
Soap Laundry Lounge
Emily Strayer, a founding member of The Chicks, has opened Soap Laundry Lounge at 900 Oblate Drive on the North Side. This innovative space combines a modern laundromat with a full craft coffee bar, aiming to transform the laundry experience into something more enjoyable. The facility includes 28 washers and 36 dryers, offering both self-service and convenient wash-and-fold options. The lounge plans to be open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, with the last wash at 9 PM.
El Mercado
El Mercado, a new Mexican food concept inspired by Mexico City, is set to open in early 2026 at 7807 W Loop 1604 N in the El Portico at Shaenfield. The restaurant will offer a mix of authentic Mexican cuisine infused with Tex-Mex flavors. Construction is expected to begin by the end of October, with plans to open by March 2026.
Urban Bird
Houston-based chain Urban Bird has opened its first San Antonio location at 22106 U.S. 281 N #102 in Stone Oak. Known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, Urban Bird offers various levels of spiciness, from the tame “country” to the blistering “fire in the hole.” The restaurant uses Halal butchered meats that are raised without hormones or antibiotics.
Otto’s Ice House
Chef Levi Goode, CEO of Goode Company Restaurants, is expanding his brand with Otto’s Ice House in San Antonio’s historic Pearl district. Scheduled to open in April, Otto’s Ice House will honor the legacy of Otto Koehler, the founder of the Pearl Brewery. The venue will feature a wood-fired rotisserie and grill, offering dishes like pollo asado and redfish on the half shell, alongside casual Texas-meets-pub fare such as street tacos and German soft pretzels.
Max & Louie’s in Cibolo
San Antonio’s New York diner-style restaurant concept, Max & Louie’s, is planning to expand to Cibolo. The new location at 18124 I-35 is scheduled to open by February 2026. Founded in 2016, Max & Louie’s is inspired by the owner’s grandfather and great uncle, both of whom were butchers who immigrated from Russia.
Los Tios in Fredericksburg
Los Tios, a family-run Tex-Mex restaurant owned by Adair Concepts, opened on April 1 in Fredericksburg at 203 E. San Antonio St. This marks the first expansion outside of Houston for the brand, which has been serving signature dishes like puffy queso and frozen margaritas since 1970.
San Antonio Restaurant Week
San Antonio Restaurant Week is a city-wide celebration that brings the community together to dine out, discover new spots, and support the hospitality industry. The event features three-course menus, unbeatable deals, and unforgettable bites from August 9–23. Restaurants of all types participate, from fine dining to neighborhood favorites.
San Antonio Food Trails
The San Antonio Food Trails program offers a curated guide to the city’s best eats, including margaritas, tacos, burgers, barbecue, and bars. Handpicked by food experts, these trails highlight must-visit spots for anyone craving an unforgettable culinary experience. The program is accessible through the Vibemap app, which helps users discover places, experiences, and people that match their personal “vibe.”
Market Square (El Mercado)
Market Square, also known as El Mercado, is a three-block outdoor plaza in downtown San Antonio, lined with shops and restaurants. It is the largest Mexican market in the United States, featuring 32 specialty shops and 80 vendors. Major eateries include Mi Tierra Cafe Y Panaderia and La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar. The square hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is a city park and pedestrian street that winds and loops under bridges, lined with restaurants and shops. It connects major tourist attractions such as the Shops at Rivercenter, the Arneson River Theatre, and the San Antonio Museum of Art. The River Walk has been expanded over the years to include the Museum Reach and Mission Reach, offering additional dining and recreational options.
La Villita Historic Arts Village
La Villita Historic Arts Village is an art community in downtown San Antonio, featuring art galleries, shops selling souvenirs, gifts, custom jewelry, pottery, and imported Mexican folk art, as well as several restaurants. Located on the south bank of the San Antonio River, La Villita was one of San Antonio’s first neighborhoods and is now a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Tower of the Americas
The Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot observation tower and restaurant located in the Hemisfair district in downtown San Antonio. Built as the theme structure of the 1968 World’s Fair, HemisFair ’68, the tower offers panoramic views of the city and houses a revolving restaurant. It remains a significant landmark and tourist attraction in San Antonio.
Sichuan House
Sichuan House is a restaurant in San Antonio known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine. It has been featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes and has gained popularity for its flavorful offerings.
Nicosi
Nicosi is a Michelin-starred dessert-only tasting menu restaurant in San Antonio. Established in 2024, it offers a unique dining experience focused solely on creative desserts. The restaurant has gained recognition for its innovative approach to dessert cuisine.
San Antonio’s Culinary Growth
These new openings reflect the dynamic and evolving culinary scene in San Antonio, offering a range of dining experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From innovative concepts to expansions of beloved local brands, the city’s food landscape continues to thrive and attract both residents and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Esencia, and when is it opening?
Esencia is a new restaurant set to open this winter at the St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio. Led by James Beard-nominated chef Leo Davila, Esencia will blend Spanish, Mexican, and Asian cuisines, reflecting Davila’s Mexican-Chinese heritage. The menu will feature dishes such as Carne Asada Frites, Arroz con Pollo, and Duck & Flower, complemented by a selection of creative cocktails. The restaurant’s design will incorporate Spanish influences, paying homage to San Antonio’s rich history and culture.
What is Soap Laundry Lounge?
Soap Laundry Lounge is a new business opened by Emily Strayer, a founding member of The Chicks, at 900 Oblate Drive on the North Side of San Antonio. This innovative space combines a modern laundromat with a full craft coffee bar, aiming to transform the laundry experience into something more enjoyable. The facility includes 28 washers and 36 dryers, offering both self-service and convenient wash-and-fold options. The lounge plans to be open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, with the last wash at 9 PM.
When is El Mercado opening?
El Mercado, a new Mexican food concept inspired by Mexico City, is set to open in early 2026 at 7807 W Loop 1604 N in the El Portico at Shaenfield. The restaurant will offer a mix of authentic Mexican cuisine infused with Tex-Mex flavors. Construction is expected to begin by the end of October, with plans to open by March 2026.
What is Urban Bird?
Urban Bird is a Houston-based chain that has opened its first San Antonio location at 22106 U.S. 281 N #102 in Stone Oak. Known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, Urban Bird offers various levels of spiciness, from the tame “country” to the blistering “fire in the hole.” The restaurant uses Halal butchered meats that are raised without hormones or antibiotics.
Who is Chef Levi Goode, and what is Otto’s Ice House?
Chef Levi Goode, CEO of Goode Company Restaurants, is expanding his brand with Otto’s Ice House in San Antonio’s historic Pearl district. Scheduled to open in April, Otto’s Ice House will honor the legacy of Otto Koehler, the founder of the Pearl Brewery. The venue will feature a wood-fired rotisserie and grill, offering dishes like pollo asado and redfish on the half shell, alongside casual Texas-meets-pub fare such as street tacos and German soft pretzels.
Key Features of San Antonio’s Culinary Scene Growth
| Restaurant Name | Location | Opening Date | Cuisine Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Esencia | St. Anthony Hotel | Winter 2025 | Spanish, Mexican, Asian |
| Soap Laundry Lounge | 900 Oblate Drive | Open Now | Coffee, Laundry |
| El Mercado | 7807 W Loop 1604 N | March 2026 | Mexican, Tex-Mex |
| Urban Bird | 22106 U.S. 281 N #102 | Open Now | Nashville-style Hot Chicken |
| Otto’s Ice House | Pearl district | April 2026 | Texas-meets-Pub Fare |
| Max & Louie’s | 18124 I-35, Cibolo | February 2026 | New York Diner-style |
| Los Tios | 203 E. San Antonio St., Fredericksburg | Open Now | Tex-Mex |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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