Embarking on a culinary journey can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences, and for many, San Antonio, Texas, stands out as a vibrant hub of gastronomic exploration. While the charm of home in Kansas City has its undeniable pull, a recent dive into old photo albums reignited the vivid memories of a truly spectacular year of travel – 2013. That year was a whirlwind of culinary adventures, featuring encounters with inspiring individuals, visits to breathtaking places, and, naturally, indulging in an incredible array of exquisite food and drink. Among these unforgettable escapades was a deeply immersive trip to Culinaria, San Antonio’s acclaimed food and wine festival.
Culinaria is not just an event; it’s a grand celebration of flavor, innovation, and Texan hospitality. I had the distinct pleasure of being invited to experience this phenomenal festival in San Antonio, a city renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and distinctive culinary scene. For anyone dreaming of a captivating spring getaway, especially as the colder months fade, Culinaria offers an unparalleled opportunity. Tickets for Culinaria 2014, set to unfold this May, are already on sale, and I can attest with absolute certainty that it is an utterly epic food and wine festival. True to the Texas motto, everything here is indeed bigger and better. From the visionary chefs crafting culinary masterpieces to the expertly mixed hand-crafted cocktails, the diverse events, the picturesque River Walk setting, the fine wines, and even insights from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, San Antonio masterfully demonstrates its ability to host a mega-party that leaves a lasting impression. My experience was nothing short of a mega good time, and I am thrilled to share the highlights of this extraordinary journey with you.
Join me as I recount my adventures through a curated selection of photographs (and believe me, narrowing down from the hundreds I took was a challenge!). If the thought of attending Culinaria sparks your interest, or if you have any questions about planning your visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I genuinely believe you will adore every moment of it!
My Culinaria experience began in the esteemed company of a group of talented press members and fellow bloggers. Our home away from home was the exquisite Hotel Havana, a distinctive boutique hotel perfectly situated along the North stretch of San Antonio’s iconic River Walk. This unique location provided both tranquility and convenient access to the city’s vibrant pulse, setting the stage for an immersive cultural and culinary adventure.
The history of Hotel Havana is as captivating as its design. Originally constructed in 1914, it served as a residence hotel for local buyers of a prominent grocer. Its architecture elegantly reflects strong Spanish influences, seamlessly blending with diverse cultural tributes to its Cuban namesake. This fusion creates an ambiance that is both historically rich and distinctly exotic, inviting guests into a world of timeless charm and modern sophistication.
For someone with an eye for design, Hotel Havana is an absolute dream come true. Every corner, every detail, speaks volumes about thoughtful curation and aesthetic brilliance. It’s a true feast for the eyes!
After a meticulous restoration, the hotel triumphantly reopened in 2010, and the designers truly outdid themselves. The result is a space that is wonderfully quirky, boldly colorful, charmingly vintage, and undeniably posh. It strikes a perfect balance between historical reverence and contemporary flair, creating an environment that feels both luxurious and inviting.
The hotel’s design philosophy extends to its common areas, where a vibrant, funky red motif prominently features in the open meeting rooms and historic stairwells. This bold use of color adds a playful yet sophisticated energy, creating memorable visual pathways throughout the property and inviting exploration.
In contrast to the vibrant common areas, the guest rooms offered a serene sanctuary. They were perfectly airy, light-filled, and utterly amazing. The thoughtful design created a tranquil escape from the bustling festival activities, allowing for true relaxation.
Despite the challenges of capturing its full beauty with my camera, the room featured a charming enclosed sunroom, or sitting room, directly attached to the main bedroom. For a sun-seeker like myself, this space was nothing short of San Antonio heaven. Bathed in natural light, it provided a perfect spot for morning coffee or an afternoon read, offering a private oasis within the city.
Adding to the room’s unique charm was a vintage-style fridge, generously stocked with an array of gourmet treats. This wasn’t your typical mini-bar with standard peanuts and candy bars; oh no. It was evident that culinary enthusiasts were involved in curating these provisions, as the room was thoughtfully adorned with all sorts of delightful, funky, and high-quality goodies, reflecting a true foodie’s paradise.
Upon arrival, a heartwarming touch awaited on the bed: complimentary local macarons and a decadent chocolate dessert. These thoughtful gestures instantly captured my heart, proving that Hotel Havana truly understands the art of hospitality and knows how to make a guest feel cherished from the very first moment.
The bedroom itself was designed with a minimalist aesthetic, yet infused with playful elements that prevented it from feeling stark. It offered a comfortable and stylish retreat, allowing the vibrant spirit of San Antonio to subtly permeate the space without overwhelming it.
And for a touch of luxurious whimsy, they even included a vibrant red robe! It was a small detail that added a delightful dash of color and comfort, embodying the hotel’s quirky elegance.
After savoring my delightful macaron appetizer, I ventured downstairs to rendezvous with the team at Ocho, the hotel’s stunning patio restaurant and lounge. This beautiful space, with its vibrant design and riverside views, set a perfect ambiance for our first official Culinaria culinary immersion.
At Ocho, we were greeted with an abundance of incredible gourmet small bites – a true foodie’s delight. I eagerly indulged, only to then discover that this was just the prelude to an even more extensive eleven-course dinner still to come! The sheer scale of the culinary offerings promised an unforgettable experience.
Following this initial feast, our group split, with half heading to a lively food truck competition (an event wonderfully detailed in my friend Andi’s insightful post). I, along with the other half, embarked on a journey to Bin 555, eager for the next chapter of our Culinaria adventure.
Upon entering Bin 555, it was clear that the striking red-tinted room theme, observed in parts of Hotel Havana, continued here, creating a cohesive and vibrant aesthetic across our Culinaria venues. The ambiance was immediately inviting, setting a dynamic mood for the evening’s dining experience.
The windows of Bin 555 were uniquely adorned with menus, a creative design choice that, while visually interesting, presented a delightful challenge for food photography. It transformed the space, making the focus entirely on the experience rather than capturing perfect shots.
Despite the window menus, the evening at Bin 555 was absolutely phenomenal. Chef Jason Dady truly excelled, showcasing his profound passion for Asian fusion cuisine. He presented a magnificent procession of creative, daring, and brilliant dishes, each thoughtfully paired with exceptional local wines. The enthusiasm from the dining crowd was palpable; everyone was eager to sample and celebrate these culinary innovations. It was an incredibly fun and inspiring night that truly highlighted San Antonio’s innovative dining scene.
The following morning, we rose early, filled with anticipation for a visit to a destination I had longed to see for years: the San Antonio campus of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). For clarity, we’re not referring to the intelligence agency here, but rather the esteemed Culinary Institute of America – a name synonymous with culinary excellence!
The Culinary Institute of America is widely regarded as one of the top, if not *the* top, culinary schools in the entire nation. Its San Antonio branch is particularly notable as its newest campus, specializing in the rich and diverse local cuisines of the American Southwest. This focus on regional culinary traditions makes it a unique and invaluable institution for aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
Our visit to the CIA began with a delightful breakfast and invigorating coffee at their inviting campus bakery/cafe. The aroma of freshly baked goods and brewing coffee filled the air, providing a perfect start to our educational culinary day.
Following breakfast, we embarked on a fascinating walking tour of the campus. What truly sets this location apart is its integration into a collection of stunning 19th-century buildings that once housed the historic Pearl Brewery. The designers have done an exceptional job of creatively weaving elements of the old brewery into the restored architecture and modern design of the culinary school. This blend of history and contemporary functionality creates an incredibly inspiring and unique learning environment.
Can you discern what that distinctive light fixture is crafted from? Let’s just say it looks like it could fry up a veritable mountain of eggs! This playful, repurposed design element is just one example of the innovative spirit that permeates the CIA San Antonio campus, blending industrial heritage with culinary artistry.
Stepping inside the Culinary Institute of America evoked a palpable hush among our group. It felt akin to entering the Ivy League of culinary education. The atmosphere was incredibly inspiring and profoundly impressive, especially as we passed by classrooms where students were intensely focused, diligently perfecting their craft. The dedication and passion were truly infectious.
Despite the frenetic pace and intense focus required to create their culinary masterpieces at what seemed like 100 miles per hour, the students appeared to genuinely revel in their work. Their enthusiasm was infectious, underscoring the joy and passion inherent in the art of cooking at such a high level.
Beyond its rigorous professional culinary degree programs, all campuses of the CIA offer an exciting array of Food Enthusiast courses. These incredible classes are designed for *anyone* who possesses a genuine passion for food, regardless of their professional aspirations. The offerings are wonderfully diverse, ranging from intensive boot camps and specialized cooking and wine courses to engaging demonstrations and insightful tastings, providing something for every level of interest and skill.
I was absolutely thrilled to discover that our morning would be spent immersed in a hands-on mini boot camp cooking class, led by one of the CIA’s top instructors, the acclaimed Chef Brian West. This promised to be an unforgettable opportunity to learn directly from a master.
Donning our aprons and traditional chef’s hats (toques), we divided into groups, eager to dive into creating a Mexican culinary storm. The day’s theme was “Regional Cuisines of Mexico,” and the extensive menu included a vibrant array of dishes, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of authentic flavors:
- Salsa verde cocida
- Salsa roja de molcajete
- Ceviche acapulqueno
- Agua fresca de limon con chia
- Tacos de pescado estilo baja
- Salsa verde asada
- Guacamole
- Cebollas encurtidas
- Frijoles refritos
- Arroz a la poblano
- Molletes
- Tinga poblana
- Rajas poblanas
- Sopes estilo D.F.
My group was assigned the exhilarating task of preparing the final three dishes on the menu: the savory Tinga Poblana (shredded pork), the flavorful Rajas Poblanas (roasted poblano chile strips), and the delightful Sopes estilo D.F. (Mexico City-style masa boats). It was an exciting challenge to bring these authentic Mexican flavors to life.
Go team! Our collective efforts in the kitchen were filled with enthusiasm and collaboration, truly embodying the spirit of a culinary adventure.
Here, you can see our meticulously crafted masa boats, ready to be adorned with their delicious toppings. Each one was a testament to our teamwork and the guidance of Chef West.
And… ta da! Here is the magnificent Tinga Poblana, a dish bursting with rich, smoky flavors. Its vibrant appearance promised an equally delicious taste.
I must have been too engrossed in the culinary process to snap a close-up of the chili strips, but rest assured, they are nestled right there on the bottom-left of the plate, adding their unique flavor and texture to the spread.
After hours of dedicated cooking, a collective sense of accomplishment and anticipation filled the air when it was finally time to set out our grand buffet. The kitchen, once a flurry of activity, now transformed into a vibrant display of our shared culinary creations.
The table was laden with an incredible assortment of dishes – it was nothing short of a downright feast! The vibrant colors and enticing aromas promised a truly memorable dining experience, a testament to our morning’s hard work.
We each eagerly piled our plates high with generous portions of all the delicious dishes we had spent the morning preparing and savoring with our senses. The moment of truth arrived as we finally taste-tested everything, and for this Mexican-food lover, it was pure happiness and utter satisfaction. Every bite was a testament to the authentic flavors and techniques we had learned.
Following our satisfying lunch, our culinary education continued with a visit to one of the CIA’s other impressive restaurants, NAO: New World Flavors. There, we were treated to an enlightening ceviche demonstration led by the talented chef-instructor Elizabeth Johnson. Her expertise promised to unveil the secrets behind this refreshing and vibrant dish.
Holy smokes, Chef Johnson truly possesses an extraordinary talent for crafting exceptional ceviche, coupled with a deep understanding of the intricate science behind its preparation. Her presentation was incredibly impressive, showcasing both artistry and precision in every step of the process.
Our final cooking class of the day was an absolute delight, led by the renowned food historian Chef Melissa Guerra. Our class immediately fell in love with her engaging personality and profound knowledge. She reminded me so much of a modern-day Julia Child – down-to-earth, with a fabulously quick and dry sense of humor. Chef Guerra didn’t just teach us recipes; she provided an invaluable lesson on the rich history and cultural context behind Mexican ingredients. Her “Cliffs Notes” version revealed a fundamental truth: local Mexican cuisine can often be traced back to its food storage roots, with communities historically cooking with ingredients they could easily preserve, such as dried chiles. It was an insightful and truly memorable session.
After an enriching day at the CIA, we ventured to an uber-hip and utterly awesome restaurant called Arcade, also conveniently located within the historic grounds of the old Pearl Brewery. Its distinctive vibe and stylish setting promised a unique transition from our cooking lessons to evening relaxation.
There, we were graciously treated to some of Arcade’s signature grapefruit cocktails, a refreshing and zesty prelude that perfectly set the tone before our dinner plans. The unique flavors offered a delightful palate cleanser and a taste of the bar’s innovative mixology.
Following our delightful pre-dinner cocktails at Arcade, we enjoyed a leisurely walk back to NAO: New World Flavors to fully immerse ourselves in its dinner experience. Having already witnessed a ceviche demo there, we were excited to see what culinary wonders awaited us for a complete evening meal.
Here’s just a little peek at the menu, hinting at the delightful culinary journey we were about to embark on at NAO. The carefully curated selections promised an exploration of “New World Flavors” that piqued our collective curiosity and appetite.
When in Texas, one must embrace its culinary spirit! Naturally, I opted for the steak, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Cooked to perfection, it embodied the rich flavors and generous portions Texas is renowned for, making it a truly memorable dish.
Equally amazing, if not more so, were those incredible shrimp! The plate seemed to vanish instantly from our table, with everyone playfully eyeing who managed to snag the last one. They were crazy good, a testament to the quality and preparation that left a lasting impression.
And of course, no spectacular meal is complete without a dessert that transcends expectation. The final course at NAO was nothing less than a masterpiece, beautifully presented and exquisitely flavored, providing a perfect crescendo to our culinary evening.
Just when we thought it was utterly impossible to eat another single bite, an exciting opportunity presented itself: a sneak peek at the preparations for the next day’s famous Saturday brunch, masterfully orchestrated by Chef Johnny Hernandez. This promised to be an exclusive glimpse into a highly anticipated culinary event.
Apparently, Chef Hernandez opens this particular restaurant only for special events and his highly coveted “Second Saturday” brunches. On these occasions, he goes all out, meticulously preparing an elegant Mexican feast to share with a long list of eager patrons hoping to experience his renowned cooking. It’s an exclusive invitation to a truly exceptional gastronomic celebration.
During our privileged sneak peek, Chef Hernandez treated us to a delightful tequila tasting, guiding us through the nuances of this iconic Mexican spirit. It was an educational and enjoyable prelude to the culinary wonders that awaited us for brunch.
He also graciously allowed us to inspect the legendary grill he custom-built in the back, specifically designed for creating his super-famous barbacoa. I had never witnessed anything quite like it – a testament to his dedication to authentic flavors and meticulous preparation, promising a barbacoa experience unlike any other.
And thankfully, our sneak peek transformed into a coveted invitation to return and be part of the actual Saturday brunch! I had envisioned a relatively simple spread, but as I was quickly learning, nothing at Culinaria – or indeed in Texas – ever seems to be “simple.”
Once again, we were treated to a truly stunning array of every delicious Mexican dish imaginable. It was a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures, meticulously prepared and beautifully presented. I had to keep pinching myself to ensure this incredible culinary dream was truly real!
The brunch offered an impressive variety, from the exquisitely fresh and vibrant ceviche, bursting with zesty flavors and perfectly tender seafood, to a truly comprehensive selection of authentic Mexican pastries and desserts. Every dish showcased the depth and breadth of regional Mexican cuisine.
And naturally, there was an abundance of chips and salsas galore – you *know* I was absolutely thrilled about that! It’s an essential part of any true Mexican feast, offering endless combinations of crunch and flavor.
Of course, the star of the show was Chef Hernandez’s famous barbacoa, which proved to be melt-in-your-mouth magic. Its tender texture and rich, smoky flavor were a testament to the custom grill and traditional preparation, making it an unforgettable highlight of the brunch.
That plate right there embodies a very happy meal! It perfectly encapsulated the joy and satisfaction derived from such an exceptional culinary experience, leaving a lasting impression of deliciousness.
For dessert, a delightful assortment of traditional Mexican pastries awaited, offering a sweet and authentic conclusion to our brunch. Each delicate bite was a perfect complement to the savory feast.
Accompanying the pastries was robust Mexican coffee, its rich aroma and deep flavor providing a comforting and invigorating finish to the meal. It was the perfect pairing to enhance the sweet notes of the desserts.
And naturally, no true San Antonio brunch would be complete without a bit more tequila to round off the festive atmosphere! It added a playful and spirited touch to an already incredible culinary celebration.
The restaurant itself was a treasure trove of delightful decorative touches, each adding to its unique charm. Among them was this happy little statue, whose cheerful presence contributed to the overall warm and inviting ambiance of the space.
And to our surprise and delight, the restaurant even boasted a serene koi pond! This unexpected touch of nature added an element of tranquility and beauty, creating a peaceful oasis within the bustling culinary setting.
Here, my friend Andi gracefully poses in the grand entrance, her elegance perfectly complementing the restaurant’s inviting and beautifully designed space. It was wonderful sharing these culinary explorations with such lovely company.
Our San Antonio exploration extended beyond culinary delights, as we also had the opportunity to take a fascinating tour of the historic Pearl Brewery grounds, including a glimpse into its meticulously preserved stables. This allowed us to appreciate the rich industrial heritage that has been so thoughtfully revitalized.
While in San Antonio, a visit to the iconic Alamo was an absolute must, and we were fortunate to include a tour of this historically significant site in our itinerary. It provided a powerful connection to Texas’s enduring legacy.
As someone who, admittedly, knew embarrassingly little about Texas history and the Alamo beyond the cinematic charm of *Miss Congeniality*, I found the experience incredibly fascinating and deeply moving. It brought the rich historical narratives to life in a profound way.
Another quintessential San Antonio experience we embraced was a delightful boat ride down the historic River Walk. This serene journey offered picturesque views and a unique perspective on the city’s vibrant heart, showcasing its architectural beauty and lush surroundings.
The River Walk boat tour is undeniably a “must” for any first-time visitor to San Antonio. It offers a captivating and relaxing way to experience one of the city’s most iconic attractions, providing charming views and a sense of its rich history and vibrant present.
While it certainly looks different today than it did in its earliest days, it was truly impressive to witness how thoughtfully and meticulously the city has restored and preserved the River Walk. The blend of historical charm and modern revitalization is truly remarkable.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the Pearl Brewery campus is a thriving farmers market that springs to life each weekend. This bustling market is a true testament to San Antonio’s commitment to local produce and artisanal goods, drawing in crowds of residents and visitors alike.
The farmers market was undeniably a local hot spot, bustling with energy and an abundance of fresh, regional offerings. And did I mention *hot*? Yes, definitely plan for sleeveless shirts and light attire during this time of year in Texas; it was absolutely scorching! The warmth of the sun, however, only added to the lively, festive atmosphere.
Every time I visit a farmers market, I find myself wishing I could capture a hundred more photos. The vibrant colors, the fresh produce, the artisan crafts, and the lively interactions all create a captivating scene that’s endlessly photogenic and inspiring.
So lovely.
Okay, this photo might not be my most flattering, but it’s essential for introducing two truly beautiful women, inside and out, with whom I shared most of this incredible trip: my friends Andie and Pamela. Their companionship made every moment of Culinaria even more special and memorable.
Later in the day, our curiosity led us back to Arcade for an engaging session of cocktail tastings. The innovative atmosphere of this establishment provided the perfect setting to further explore the art of mixology and discover new flavor combinations.
During the cocktail tasting, we delved into the intriguing art of incorporating wine into cocktails – a fascinating new trend that’s been gaining significant traction in the world of mixology. It was an eye-opening experience to witness the versatility and complexity wine can bring to a crafted drink.
We also had the unique opportunity to observe a mesmerizing demonstration on the intricate craft of hand-carving ice balls for cocktails. The ultimate goal, we learned, is for the perfectly spherical ice ball to precisely touch three sides of the glass, ensuring optimal chilling and minimal dilution. I’ve decided this particular skill is one I will *not* be attempting at home!
However, I certainly relished the opportunity to enjoy their expertly crafted creations. The precision and artistry behind each drink were evident, making for an exceptionally enjoyable and refreshing experience.
That evening, we joined several thousand fellow food enthusiasts for one of Culinaria’s pinnacle events: The Grand Tasting. This highly anticipated gathering transforms into a bustling hub of culinary excellence, drawing a massive crowd eager to savor the best of San Antonio’s gastronomic scene.
The Grand Tasting is a truly spectacular “night of elegance” where top chefs and local restaurants showcase their finest food, exceptional wines, and premium spirits. It was an absolute blast! If you plan to attend Culinaria, securing a ticket to this event is an absolute must. My advice: don your most comfortable “stretchy” dress (this is definitely not the night for tight attire!), slip into some supportive shoes, and prepare to spend the entire evening leisurely strolling, sampling, and indulging in incredible food to your heart’s content.
Here’s Pamela, still going strong and happily enjoying what must have been her 12th course of the evening! Her enthusiasm was truly infectious, perfectly capturing the spirit of indulgence at The Grand Tasting.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was the live band, whose lively music provided the perfect soundtrack to an evening of culinary celebration, encouraging a festive and dynamic mood among the attendees.
And here’s me, likely savoring my 17th course of the night! It’s easy to lose count when surrounded by such an overwhelming array of delicious food and drink, all contributing to an unforgettable experience.
And for a glimpse into the bustling heart of the event, here’s a peek at some of the sampling stations in full swing. Chefs and their teams were actively preparing and serving their exquisite dishes, creating a dynamic and interactive culinary environment.
Every single chef we had the pleasure of meeting throughout our Culinaria experience was also present at The Grand Tasting, actively cooking and engaging with guests live. This personal interaction added an incredible layer of authenticity and excitement to the event.
So. Much. Amazing. Food. The sheer volume and quality of the culinary offerings were truly astounding, making it a paradise for any food lover.
And it truly was such a fun night. The combination of exquisite food, fine wines, lively music, and engaging company created an atmosphere of pure joy and celebration, leaving indelible memories.
Believe it or not, this extensive recount is merely a glimpse into the vast and diverse experiences Culinaria offers. The festival boasts countless other events, catering to every taste and interest. From luxurious “Cashmere and Cocktails” to the invigorating “5K Wine & Beer Run,” and from the hearty “Burgers, BBQ and Beer” bash to the elegant “Rambling Rose” event, the itinerary is packed with unique opportunities. You can explore the full spectrum of events and plan your visit by checking out Culinaria’s official website, or by following their latest updates on Twitter and Facebook pages.
My initial anticipation for Culinaria revolved around indulging in authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, and the festival exceeded those expectations repeatedly. However, Culinaria proved to be so much more than just a culinary showcase. The entire experience, from the innovative dishes to the vibrant atmosphere, was creative, intelligent, approachable, and above all, incredibly fun. If you ever have the chance to attend, I wholeheartedly recommend it. And if you do go, please, tell me all about your own incredible adventures! 😀
Thank you for following along through this (admittedly) extensive collection of photos. I hope you have a fantastic weekend, everyone!
Disclaimer: My attendance at Culinaria 2013 was as an invited member of a press team, and my trip was sponsored. However, I received no payment for this coverage, and all opinions expressed herein are 100% my own, as always. I am grateful for the opportunity to share such enriching experiences that extend beyond the confines of my own kitchen. 🙂