San Antonio Restaurant Weeks kick off this weekend
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Culinaria's Restaurant Weeks kick off Saturday, giving food lovers a chance to experience a food scene that's been drawing growing national attention.
Why it matters: The January edition of Restaurant Weeks is designed to attract diners after the holidays, when many restaurants see a dip in business.
By the numbers: About 100 restaurants are participating, with more expected to join before Saturday, Culinaria CEO and president Suzanne Taranto-Etheredge tells Axios.
How it works: Participating restaurants offer prix-fixe lunch, brunch and/or dinner menus through Jan. 31.
- Most lunches cost $30, brunch menus run about $25 and dinners range from $30–$55.
- Participation is free for restaurants, but $1 from each qualifying meal sold goes back to Culinaria to fund future Restaurant Weeks.
What they're saying: Sarah Felix, a senior leader at Smashin' Crab, says Restaurant Weeks give customers a chance to explore new flavors while providing restaurants with a boost during a vulnerable time.
- "In a city where so many restaurants have had to close, giving back and keeping our local food scene vibrant is more important than ever," she tells Axios.
Reality check: The event arrives during a period of change for San Antonio's restaurant scene, as several beloved spots — including Full Goods Diner, Cured, Ocho and The Good Kind — have closed in recent months.
Dig in: Taranto-Etheredge says January also gives chefs room to experiment with seasonal ingredients and comfort dishes.
- "It'll be interesting to see what chefs create during a warmer winter, while still exploring those winter flavor palettes," she says.
What's next: Reservations are a smart idea, and diners should check the Restaurant Weeks website for menu updates. Organizers also urge patience during what can be a busy time.
- "They're doing their very best to give you their very best," Taranto-Etheredge says.