San Antonio, Texas, January 14, 2026
Lucy Cooper’s Ice House, a beloved restaurant and bar in San Antonio, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing a predatory lending scheme by Savvy Holdings Texas LLC as a primary cause. The filing reveals significant financial challenges, including debts of approximately $3.2 million against assets of just $57,620. Founded in 2018, the restaurant hopes to reorganize its debts while continuing operations in the competitive local dining market, highlighting the resilience of small businesses in Bexar County.
San Antonio’s Lucy Cooper’s Ice House Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection
San Antonio, Texas – Lucy Cooper’s Ice House, a popular local restaurant and bar, has made headlines by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection due to financial strain allegedly caused by a predatory lending scheme from its lender, Savvy Holdings Texas LLC.
This situation highlights the resilience of small businesses in Bexar County, often navigating complex financial landscapes to remain viable. While Lucy Cooper’s Ice House has faced challenges, such events underscore the determination inherent in the entrepreneurial spirit of San Antonio. The hope is that by addressing its financial difficulties, the restaurant can emerge stronger, further contributing to the local economy.
Allegations of Financial Mismanagement
According to its bankruptcy filing, Lucy Cooper’s LLC alleges that Savvy Holdings engaged in practices that tightly bound the business with debt. Specifically, the restaurant claims that Savvy utilized “one-sided financial loans and change of control agreements” to gain control over two of its three locations, leaving Lucy Cooper’s with the majority of the liabilities.
Financial Overview
The bankruptcy petition reveals a stark financial reality for Lucy Cooper’s Ice House, which lists assets valued at $57,620 against staggering liabilities of approximately $3.2 million. Much of this debt stems from a U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury and Disaster Loan, totaling nearly $2.1 million. The restaurant reported revenues dipping to just under $1.7 million in the past year, down from about $1.9 million the previous year.
Background of Lucy Cooper’s Ice House
Founded in 2018, Lucy Cooper’s Ice House quickly became a favorite destination for locals, known for its diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant’s flagship location at 10680 San Pedro Ave. is accompanied by two additional locations in San Antonio and New Braunfels, expanding its reach within the community.
Legal Proceedings
In July 2024, Savvy Holdings initiated a lawsuit against Lucy Cooper’s Ice House and its principals, alleging fraudulent behavior, including nondisclosure of tax liabilities and misappropriation of funds. Lucy Cooper’s contests these allegations, claiming it was never formally served with the lawsuit and has since incorporated the matter into its bankruptcy proceedings.
Future Operations
Despite the current financial turmoil, Lucy Cooper’s Ice House plans to operate under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, allowing it to reorganize its debts while maintaining operations. The restaurant aims to navigate its challenges and secure its future in the competitive San Antonio dining market.
Conclusion
As Lucy Cooper’s Ice House enters this critical phase, it embodies the challenges and resilience of local entrepreneurs. Supporting such businesses as they adapt to changing financial landscapes is essential for sustaining the economic fabric of San Antonio. Engage with the local dining scene and support these establishments as they work to rebound and thrive in our vibrant community.
- What is Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection?
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection allows a business to reorganize its debts while continuing operations, aiming to return to profitability.
- What are the allegations against Savvy Holdings Texas LLC?
- Lucy Cooper’s Ice House alleges that Savvy Holdings used “one-sided financial loans and change of control agreements” to gain control of the business and burden it with debt.
- What is the financial status of Lucy Cooper’s Ice House?
- As of the bankruptcy filing, Lucy Cooper’s LLC lists assets of $57,620 and liabilities of approximately $3.2 million, including nearly $2.1 million from a U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury and Disaster Loan.
- What is the history of Lucy Cooper’s Ice House?
- Established in 2018, Lucy Cooper’s Ice House is known for its unique menu items and vibrant atmosphere. The original location at 10680 San Pedro Ave. in San Antonio has been a local favorite. The business expanded to two additional locations: 8403 Texas 151 on the West Side and 1515 Kuehler Ave. in New Braunfels.
- What is the current status of the lawsuit filed by Savvy Holdings?
- In July 2024, Savvy Holdings filed a lawsuit against Lucy Cooper’s and its principals, alleging fraudulent activities, including failure to disclose tax and vendor liabilities and misappropriation of funds. Lucy Cooper’s disputes these allegations, stating it was never served with the lawsuit and has moved the suit into the bankruptcy case.
- What are the future plans for Lucy Cooper’s Ice House?
- Under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, Lucy Cooper’s intends to reorganize its debts while continuing operations. The company is seeking to resolve its financial challenges and maintain its presence in the San Antonio dining scene.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | Lucy Cooper’s Ice House |
| Location | San Antonio, Texas |
| Established | 2018 |
| Original Location | 10680 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, TX 78232 |
| Additional Locations | 8403 Texas 151, San Antonio, TX; 1515 Kuehler Ave., New Braunfels, TX |
| Bankruptcy Filing Date | January 9, 2026 |
| Assets | $57,620 |
| Liabilities | Approximately $3.2 million |
| Allegations Against Lender | Predatory loan-to-own scheme |
| Legal Status of Lawsuit | Disputed; incorporated into bankruptcy case |
| Future Plans | Reorganization under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Steak n Shake to Switch to Beef Tallow for Fries
San Antonio Faces Rising Egg Prices and New Dining Ventures
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.
