San Antonio’s dining scene is perking up in the waning days of summer. The chef couple behind Panfila Cantina has debuted a playful new restaurant pitting burgers against tacos, while another Asian fusion restaurant is rolling into the Northwest Side.
Meanwhile, Lick Honest Ice Cream is ready for cuffing season with a limited-time collaboration. Read on for more essential Alamo City food news — then check out our guide to upcoming restaurant openings to get hungry all over again.
Openings
Chef couple Charlie Gonzalez and Gaby Hinojosa, the owners of Panfila Cantina, Tutto Pepe Osteria, and San Peter Taqueria, have quietly opened their latest restaurant in the former home of Old Smokehouse at 5145 Fredericksburg Rd. The menu for Burgers vs. Tacos is just as one might imagine, but the duo put their own imaginative spins on the two signature dishes. The spot is currently in its soft opening phase, but will begin daily hours of 11 am-11 pm after the September 14 grand opening.
An exclamatory new concept called Kaito Sushi Teriyaki Fusion is being planned for the Shops at Babcock at 15031 Babcock Rd #139. Although the restaurant does not appear to have established a social media or web presence, it’s safe to bet that it will serve sushi, teriyaki, and various Asian fusion fare. Locals will have to wait a while to find out for sure. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filings estimate it won’t be finished until May of next year, although the date is subject to change without notice.
A quick lightning round of restaurant chain happenings: This fall, local fave Tías Taco Hut is opening its 15th outpost at 6032 Montgomery Dr in Windcrest. Cold Stone Creamery is headed to the Dove Creek Shopping at 407 TX Loop 1604 #105 in Spring 2026. And the Los Angeles franchise Fatburger debuted its latest Alamo City joint on September 4 in the La Picosa Town Center at 7514 S New Braunfels Ave #2101. Phew!
Lick Honest Ice Creams is teaming up with LALO tequila.Photo courtesy of Lick Honest Ice Creams
Other news and notes
The rooftop lounge at Southtown’s Rosarios ComidaMex & Bar is now offering small bites to pair with their punchy margaritas. 25-and-older guests can now munch on guacamole, salsa, and ceviche while laughing uproariously or showing off their latest Labubu.
Lick Honest Ice Creams is teaming up with LALO tequila in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Starting September 15, the limited-time carajillo ice cream flavor — a riff on the famous coffee cocktail — will be available exclusively at the Pearl shop while supplies last.