San Antonio’s dining scene is sizzling at the start of July with new restaurants bringing new options for sushi, tacos, and tapas. Elsewhere, National Fried Chicken Day promises tasty deals at several local eateries. Here are the hottest bits of San Antonio food news this week.
Openings
The owners of beloved San Antonio mini-chain Taqueria Datapoint are opening a brand-new restaurant concept, according to a recent state project filing. Texas Department of Licensing (TDLR) and Regulation details say the 3,159 square foot Datapoint Grill & Cantina will be located at Green Plaza on Bulverde, an upcoming development at 25211 N. US Hwy. A request for more information was not returned by publication time, but assumably, the restaurant will be a little boozier than its taqueria siblings. According to the TDLR details, the buildout will begin in September with a January 2026 completion date.
More Japanese fare is coming to Stone Oak. New restaurant Oja Sushi submitted TDLR paperwork on July 1 for a project that is expected to wrap up in July 2026. Though the area is mainly known for chain eateries like Cava and Jersey Mike’s Subs, this appears to be an independent project. The brand does not seem to have created a web or social media presence just yet.
Bustling New Braunfels is adding a tapas and wine bar to its growing list of hip culinary offerings. Favorite Neighbor at 494 N. Union Ave is planning a summer opening, but the owners have not yet spilled the beans on the exact opening date. Still, the debut may be coming in the next few weeks. The stylish spot has been teasing big news in its latest social media posts. CultureMap has reached out for more details.
The Newstand is hosting a July 4 hot dog party!The Newstand/ Facebook
Other news and notes
Broadway sandwich shop The Newstand is hosting an all-star benefit for pet nonprofit SNIPSA on July 4. The restaurant is teaming up with San Antonio Hot Dog Co. to offer a selection of chef-curated hot dogs from 11 am-2 pm. Participants include Leche de Tigre, The Jerk Shack, Curry Boys BBQ, Howdy Child, Chef Jason Dady,and Last Place Burgers.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk has promoted its former sous chef, Mark Scheck, to executive chef, where he will oversee the culinary offerings at Dorrego’s and Naranja Tequila and Mezcal Bar. In a release, the downtown property teased that the new appointment will bring new menu items that will bring its fare to “a new level.”
National Fried Chicken Day on July 6 is set to be a boon for penny-pinching San Antonians. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is offering a $20 dinner for two at all locations, including its popular Southtown restaurant. Guests who prove that they follow the chain on social media will get a special bonus — a complimentary appetizer sampler.
Meanwhile, Nicola Blaque is rolling out her own July 6 special at The Jerk Shack and Freight Fried Chicken. At both spots, the $10 plate will include two pieces of chicken with any menu side.
Alamo City seasoning company Twang has released a limited-edition salt in time for Independence Day. Locals can impress guests at their backyard barbecues by rimming margaritas with Life, Liberty, and Lime, appropriately dyed red, white, and blue. The salt is available online and at select local retailers.
Little Woodrow’s is inviting patrons to get steamy during weekly Love Island watch parties. Both San Antonio locations will follow the drama on Mondays and Tuesdays until the season finale. The hangouts begin at 8 pm on either night.