San Antonio, February 8, 2026
The recent closure of several iconic restaurants in San Antonio, including The Pig Stand and Earl Abel’s, has left a bittersweet mark on the city’s food scene. These venues, cherished by locals, have given way to new establishments aiming to continue the culinary legacy. While the closures stem from various challenges, including health concerns and the lingering effects of the pandemic, new restaurants like Chilaquiles Buen Dia and Hash Kitchen are emerging, promising to preserve the vibrant culinary tradition of San Antonio.
San Antonio’s Beloved Diners and Restaurants: A Look Back
San Antonio, Texas – In recent months, several iconic dining establishments that once graced the city’s culinary landscape have closed their doors, leaving behind cherished memories for locals. As we reflect on these beloved venues, it’s essential to acknowledge the resilience and determination of local entrepreneurs who continue to adapt in the face of challenges. While some historic restaurants have faded, new ventures are emerging to preserve the city’s rich culinary tradition.
The Pig Stand
The Pig Stand, which operated for 101 years, closed in March 2023. Owner Mary Ann Hill cited health concerns as the reason for the closure. The restaurant was the last of over 130 Pig Stand locations that once spanned the country.
Earl Abel’s
Earl Abel’s, a staple since 1933, closed its Broadway location near the Pearl in August 2023. Influenced by lingering COVID-19 impacts, staffing challenges, and inflationary pressures, the restaurant had previously relocated to Broadway after a stint on Austin Highway.
Old San Francisco Steak House
Old San Francisco Steak House, known for its unique ambiance and cuisine, has also closed its doors, leaving a void in the city’s dining scene.
Sombrero Rosa
Sombrero Rosa, a Tex-Mex eatery founded in 1958, was remembered fondly by locals. Its distinctive design and menu made it a favorite among many.
Mexican Manhattan and Karam’s Mexican Dining Room
Mexican Manhattan, opened in 1958, and Karam’s Mexican Dining Room, operating for about 60 years before closing in 2008, were both cherished for their authentic Mexican cuisine and cultural significance.
Chilaquiles Buen Dia
Chilaquiles Buen Dia, a new addition to the San Antonio dining scene, has opened at 1639 Broadway, the former location of Earl Abel’s. This restaurant offers chilaquiles, tacos, and other Mexican dishes, continuing the area’s rich culinary tradition.
Hash Kitchen
Hash Kitchen, known for its build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and brunch classics, is reportedly moving into the old Jim’s Restaurant at 4108 Broadway. Construction is slated to begin this summer, with the eatery expected to open by the end of the year.
Frank’s Hog Stand
Frank’s Hog Stand, formerly the Pig Stand on S. Presa St., has been transformed into a motorcycle- and family-friendly restaurant with a ’50s diner-style decor. This establishment pays homage to the original Pig Stand while offering a unique dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to The Pig Stand in San Antonio?
The Pig Stand, which operated for 101 years, closed in March 2023. Owner Mary Ann Hill cited health concerns as the reason for the closure.
Why did Earl Abel’s close its Broadway location near the Pearl?
Earl Abel’s closed its Broadway location near the Pearl in August 2023 due to lingering COVID-19 impacts, staffing challenges, and inflationary pressures.
What is Chilaquiles Buen Dia?
Chilaquiles Buen Dia is a new restaurant that has opened at 1639 Broadway, the former location of Earl Abel’s. It offers chilaquiles, tacos, and other Mexican dishes.
What is Frank’s Hog Stand?
Frank’s Hog Stand is a transformed version of the former Pig Stand on S. Presa St., now operating as a motorcycle- and family-friendly restaurant with a ’50s diner-style decor.
What is Hash Kitchen?
Hash Kitchen is a restaurant known for its build-your-own Bloody Mary bar and brunch classics. It is reportedly moving into the old Jim’s Restaurant at 4108 Broadway, with construction slated to begin this summer.
Key Features of San Antonio’s Beloved Diners and Restaurants
| Restaurant | Location | Closure Date | Reason for Closure | New Establishment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Pig Stand | San Antonio, TX | March 2023 | Health concerns of owner Mary Ann Hill | Chilaquiles Buen Dia at 1639 Broadway |
| Earl Abel’s | San Antonio, TX | August 2023 | Lingering COVID-19 impacts, staffing challenges, and inflationary pressures | Chilaquiles Buen Dia at 1639 Broadway |
| Old San Francisco Steak House | San Antonio, TX | Unknown | Unknown | Not specified |
| Sombrero Rosa | San Antonio, TX | Unknown | Unknown | Not specified |
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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.
