Look out, San Antonio, Culinaria 2013 is upon us. It’s time to put on your party pants. Maybe the stretchy ones with an elastic waistband.
Culinaria highlights expert local, regional, international chefs through a series of tasty events, in an effort to promote San Antonio as a leading destination for food and wine and to enrich the culinary community.
From May 15 to 19, the city finds itself besieged with countless tempting opportunities to eat and drink like kings. With swanky wine dinners, high-end tequila tastings, and food-centric parties at every turn, you’d better have the bank account of a king, too. Right?
Wrong. This year, avail yourself of the more affordable options (there are several!) and worry about the bathroom scale implications later.
On the evening of Thursday, May 16, from 6 to 9 p.m., food trucks from around the city will converge upon the H-E-B Alon Market (8053 NW Military Hwy) for a relaxed and family-friendly mobile meal extravaganza. Tickets to the Food Truck Competition cost $10 in advance ($25 that day) and include beer, wine, and water.
Look for the DUK Truck, Where Y’at, Singh’s Vietnamese, Sabor Colombiano, Say.She.Ate, Dillion’s Famous Louisiana Hot Dogs, and Crepe Nation, among others, and bring cash to buy your dinner.
Best of Mexico takes place at the Shops at La Cantera (15900 La Cantera Pkwy) from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, May 17. The event brings together favorite San Antonio chefs, including Johnny Hernandez and Blanca Aldaco, and some of the premier chefs of Mexico, such as executive chef Paco Isordia of the luxurious Viceroy Zihuatanejo Resort. Best of Mexico explores the intersection of upscale, authentic Mexican fare with tried and true Tex-Mex traditions, and features musical entertainment by swinging Latin orchestra Colao. This all-inclusive night of revelry costs $50 beforehand or $65 at the door. Make sure to hydrate, because fabulous Mexican tequilas are guaranteed to flow at this foodie fiesta.
For the fifth year running, Burgers, BBQ & Beer returns to the Pearl (303 Pearl Pkwy) on Sunday, May 19. One of the most beloved Culinaria events, this afternoon feast exudes a laid-back, neighborhood barbecue vibe. Advance tickets cost $35, or pay $50 upon arrival. Participating restaurants span the spectrum from casual to fancy, with top quality chefs serving their creative takes on classic cookout food. The cost of admission includes beer, wine, and everything available for eating.
Event proceeds benefit Culinaria, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising the culinary profile of San Antonio and enriching the lives (and diets) of residents. Announced just last month, the organization’s newest project is the Culinaria Educational Center & Gardens, which will aim to promote healthy eating and sustainability through the creation of a communal space for gardening, cooking, and educational programming.
