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San Antonio Legacy Business Program
Tour San Antonio's legendary businesses on our Legacy Business Map!
Office of Historic Preservation
Tour the Map!
Explore the Legacy Business map below to tour the businesses that give San Antonio its unique character. Learn about the diversity of cultures and traditions contributing to San Antonio's economic heritage. From boot makers to traditional clothiers, restaurants and cantinas to artisans and ranching suppliers, meet the businesses that have been recognized as San Antonio's Legacy Businesses. Use the map to help plan your in-person, or armchair, visits to the cultural treasures serving that San Antonio community. (If you receive a message about JavaScript, ignore it, click on the link and you will be connected to the map.)
This map and site were made possible by a generous grant from Humanities Texas and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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2M Smokehouse
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Bedoy’s Bakery
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Bolner’s Meat Market
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Casa Rio
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Del RioTortilla Factory
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Frontier Enterprises (Jim’s Restaurants)
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La Familia Cortez Restaurants
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Little Red Barn Steakhouse
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Mertz Sausage Co
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Nicha’s Comida Mexicana
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Pioneer Flour Mills
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Sanitary Tortilla Company
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Schilo’s Deli
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Paris Hatters
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Penner’s
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Del Bravo Record Shop
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Flip Side Record Parlor
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Hogwild Records, Tapes, & CD’s
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Janie’s Record Shop
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Garcia Art Glass
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Harold’s Art & Framing
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Dixie Flag & Banner Company
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Friedrich Air Conditioning
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Motel 3 Johnson Court
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Sutton-Sutton & Woodards Mortuary Incorporated
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Santikos Enterprises
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Asociación de Charros de San Antonio
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El Torero
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Steve’s & Sons Inc.
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Elizondo Flower Shop
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Dibble’s Hobbies
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Rudy’s Feed Store
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Little’s Boot Company
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Roddis Lumber & Veneer Company
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2M Smokehouse
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Bedoy's Bakery
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Bolner’s Meat Company
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Casa Rio
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Asociación de Charros de San Antonio
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Del Bravo Record Shop
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Del Rio Tortilla Factory
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Dibble's Hobbies
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Dixie Flag & Banner Company
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El Torero
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Elizondo Flower Shop
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Flip Side Record Parlor
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Friedrich Air Conditioning
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Frontier Enterprises (Jim's Restaurants)
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Garcia Art Glass
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Harold's Art & Framing
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Hogwild Records
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Janie's Record Shop
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La Familia Cortez Restaurants
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Little Red Barn Steakhouse
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Little's Boots
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Mertz Sausage
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Motel 3 Johnson Court
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Nicha's Comida Mexicana
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Paris Hatters
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Penner's
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Pioneer Flour Mills
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Roddis Lumber & Veneer Co, LP
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Rudy's Feed Store
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Sanitary Tortilla Factory
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Santikos Entertainment
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Schilo's Deli
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Steves & Sons Inc
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Sutton-Sutton & Woodard's Mortuary
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Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186
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Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186
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El Paraiso Ice Cream
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El Paraiso Ice Cream
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The Witte Museum
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The Witte Museum
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Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine
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Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine
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Amols' Fiesta Party Store
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Amols' Specialty Inc.
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Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers
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Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers
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B&B Smokehouse
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B&B Smokehouse
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Bombay Bicycle Club
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Bombay Bicycle Club
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Cardona Welding
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Cardona Welding png
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Cavallini Glass
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Cavalinni 1
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Cinderella Bakery
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Cinderella Bakery
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D.W. Brooks Funeral Home
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D.W. Brooks Funeral Home
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Esquire Tavern
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Esquire Tavern
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Fig Tree Restaurant
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Fig Tree Restaurant
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Frost Bank
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Frost Bank
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Jefferson Bank
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Jefferson Bank
2M Smokehouse
2M Smokehouse was established in the spring of 2016 by Pit Master Esaul Ramos Jr. and CFO Joe J. Melig IV.
2M Smokehouse is one of the very few barbecue restaurants in San Antonio preserving the time-tested techniques of live fire smoking. These traditional cooking techniques and quality of food have grabbed the attention of Texas Monthly Magazine, Bon Appetite Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and even got recognized in 2018 for Eater’s Top 38 restaurants in the country.
2M Smokehouse was awarded the honor of representing San Antonio in 2019 through UNISCO’s city of gastronomy with a trip to Jeonju, South Korea. The team prepared barbacoa and had the pleasure of educating the crowd on the traditional method and cultural background of barbecue in San Antonio, and the history of Esaul and Joe’s ancestors that paved the way to what has become a barbecue destination.
The importance of preserving these techniques go well beyond the pictures captured by tourists or food bloggers. In the summer of 2019, Joe and Esaul teamed up with the East Central ISD Culinary program to offer a paid summer internship to students who took interest in barbecue. The students participating in the summer-only program eventually became permanent, weekend-only employees. Esaul and Joe commit themselves to giving students firsthand lessons in preserving what is slowly becoming a tradition of the past, and lessons on business management, customer service, and financial management.
This Legacy Business is planting seeds for the next generation of business owners and barbecue masters!
Bedoy’s Bakery
Born in El Salto Juanacatlan, Jalisco, Manuel Bedoy learned the skill of baking sweet bread from his father. Mr. Bedoy moved to San Antonio in the 1950s and began working for the Castillo family, owners of one of the original Mexican bakeries in San Antonio. Here, Manuel met his future wife Emma Castillo who was working at her father’s bakery. In 1961 Manuel and Emma Bedoy opened Bedoy’s Bakery.
With perseverance and hard work, they were able to succeed as one of the most recognized bakeries in San Antonio. Manuel Bedoy baked the first Roscas de Reyes in San Antonio and introduced a unique, colorful version of Pan de Muerto as part of the Dia de los Muertos celebration. The Bedoy’s spread their success throughout their community. They sponsored local little league baseball and softball teams in San Antonio. Many of those kids, now adults, visit Bedoy’s Bakery with their families and remember how Manuel Bedoy provided pan dulce and milk after each game.
Until this day four generations of bakers have worked at Bedoy’s Bakery preserving the original family recipes. Xavier Bedoy, current owner of Bedoy’s Bakery, is very proud of the fact that both of his grandparents were bakers. Xavier and his family are proud to continue their father’s legacy and tradition by baking some of San Antonio's favorite pan dulce at two locations (one at Basse, one on Hillcrest). The Bedoy family has been dedicated to preserving their Mexican tradition and heritage through the simple act of baking bread.
The Bedoy family is very proud to celebrate their Mexican traditions through the simple act of baking bread.
Bolner’s Meat Market
Bolner’s Meat Market holds a magnificent story of immigration, tradition, and community service. Brothers Antonio and Joseph Bolner immigrated from Tyrol, Italy to Veracruz, Mexico in 1881. Mexican citizens particularly did not appreciate Italian immigrants working their lands, and often retaliated against them. As part of an appeal made by President Porfirio Díaz to the United States, Antonio and Joseph moved to Texas. Antonio and his wife Orsola settled in Del Río, while Joe and his wife Mary settled in San Antonio.
Joe and Mary built the current Bolner’s storefront in 1914, opening up a general store on the first floor and maintaining a home on the second floor. Joe and Mary had several relatives who handled animals and an uncle who learned how to butcher meat as a soldier during World War I. With their familial resources and a desire to serve the surrounding community, they transitioned the store into a meat market. Today, Bolner’s is one of the most well known meat markets in south Texas!
Bolner’s is highly valued within San Antonio as an honest brand with genuinely good products. They’ve become a classic! Despite their success and popularity, Bolner's stays true to their original values of family, quality, and community. Bolner’s offers a wide variety of Texas-produced meat, and carries an assortment of local products within their store. A classic San Antonio combo is Bolner’s meat seasoned with Clifton’s Fiesta Brand spices.
It doesn’t seem like Texas barbecue is going anywhere, so Bolner’s Meat Company will continue to to please the homes, hearts, and bellies of San Antonio and beyond!
Casa Rio
In 1946, Alfred Beyer embarked on an ambitious business endeavor and established the first restaurant on the San Antonio river. At that time, the river walk was considered dangerous off limits to military personnel. Once a new and struggling business, Casa Rio is now in the center of San Antonio's ever growing leisure and tourism business. The colorful umbrellas have become a symbol of the San Antonio Riverwalk.
Mr. Beyer always wanted to make a way for average people to be able to afford a nice meal with their families in a beautiful setting. He would often say, "There are more people that have a nickel rather than a dollar." Third and fourth generation owners Bill Lyons and Elaine Olivier adhere to the same principle by maintaining food quality at an affordable price. They do not believe in price gouging due to location or the beauty of the property.
Casa Rio understands the importance of contributing to the culture of San Antonio. They strive to be hands on while leading the next generation to carry the torch while staying true to the founding commitment to community. Several leadership members have served on The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, The Tourism Council, The San Antonio Riverwalk Association, Centro San Antonio, Rotary Club, The Convention Visitors Bureau, and Visit San Antonio. Casa Rio has also volunteered their resources with Habitat Humanity, San Antonio Graffiti Wipeout, United Way, and the Blue Santa program.
This “people first” outlook is also practiced within company walls. Casa Rio leadership believes that everyone deserves a balanced personal and professional life. Casa Rio provides substantial work benefits to their full-time staff. The idea is to make employees feel more like family by taking care of their needs and creating an enjoyable work environment. And their employees really do love what they do! Casa Rio has a core of long term employees including a few who retired after 50 or more years. Some of the team members are family outside of the Casa Rio family. One in particular, had as many as 23 members of their family working in the restaurant.
Casa Rio represents more than tourism, this business is a representation of local business involvement in building up the San Antonio community through service. Casa Rio welcomes anyone and everyone from anywhere within and outside of the city!
Del RioTortilla Factory
The Del Río Tortilla Factory was established in 1974 by Mr. Perez, a U.S. Army veteran with a desire to reclaim and preserve the Mexican traditions he carried within his home. What better way to do that than with food? Del Río’s products have been described as small “tastes of Mexico,” gaining them an ever growing following with the same appreciation for their Mexican heritage.
The storefront was founded on one of the classic staples of Mexican cuisine: tortillas! Flour and corn tortillas may be fairly simple to make, and can be easily bought from any HEB. However, Del Río’s creates one-of-a-kind tortillas using a 40 year old recipe that are definitely worth the wait. What you’re tasting is a perfected family tradition!
Del Río’s has expanded into producing other staples that are also near and dear to the hearts and bellies of San Antonians such as tamales, menudo, barbacoa. All Sunday morning breakfast must-haves! Their tamales are especially popular during the holiday season! Del Río’s is known to draw in crowds of people who begin forming a line outside their doors before the sun rises. Del Río’s is there for the grandest and simplest family traditions!
The Del Río Tortilla Factory is considered a Legacy Business because they avidly help their community celebrate their culture by providing the homegrown ingredients to do so. With an unwavering commitment to tradition and service, it doesn’t seem like the Del Río Tortilla Factory will ever lose a spot at our kitchen table!
Frontier Enterprises (Jim’s Restaurants)
In 1947, the young entrepreneur G. “Jim” Hasslocher opened a small bicycle rental business at the front gate of San Antonio’s Brackenridge Park. In the summertime, he‘d sell sliced, ice-cold watermelon. It was here that he met his wife and lifetime business partner, Veva Ball. The business duo expanded the stand and began selling charcoal-broiled hamburgers, which evolved into the first Frontier Drive-In. The popular drive-in soon became famous for its burgers, onion rings, milkshakes and carhops.
The Hasslocher’s aim has always been to feed the average family above-average meals. With the highest quality food at the lowest possible price, Jim’s Restaurants have garnered a loyal following throughout the decades. As this following grew, Frontier Enterprises began to expand Jim’s Restaurants throughout San Antonio and Austin. Other restaurants they’ve added to their chain include The Magic Time Machine and the original Frontier Burger, offering the same great value and outstanding quality!
Jim passed away in 2015 at the age of 93. But up until the day he left us, he was hard at work making sure all of his restaurants were delivering quality, affordability and great customer service. The iconic Jim’s logo can be found throughout San Antonio, welcoming diverse communities to the Frontier Enterprises story.
La Familia Cortez Restaurants
The legacy of La Familia Cortez Restaurants began in 1941 when founder and family patriarch Pedro Cortez purchased a fledgling café in San Antonio's Market Square for $150. With family recipes and a dedication to customer service, he and his wife Cruz worked side-by-side to make this venture a success. Humble beginnings planted a seed that has grown into some of the most iconic restaurants in San Antonio, and a cornerstone of El Mercado—the Historic Market Square and a focal point of Latino culture in San Antonio.
Throughout all of their business, La Familia Cortez teams operate under this credo: "We are in the business of feeding minds, bodies and spirits while exceeding the needs, desires and expectations of our guests each and every time." La Familia Cortez strongly believes one of the main ingredients to its success continues to be creating a special connection with the community outside of the restaurants. For Pedro, this includes activism, community service, and the revitalization of the Mercado.
La Familia Cortez has extended this mission to promote the Historic Market Square, constantly seeking to further contribute to San Antonio's vibrant urban environment and continued economic development. They’ve worked diligently over the last several decades to reinvigorate downtown, particularly the west side and the area now designated as "Zona Cultural" by the City of San Antonio and the Texas Commission on the Arts.
Not only is the food good, but the service is genuine and rooted in an overarching goal to celebrate Mexican culture in San Antonio.
Little Red Barn Steakhouse
The Little Red Barn Steakhouse was founded by Ralph and Lili Hernandez, opening its doors on Labor Day of 1963. The Little Red Barn has remained in its original location in San Antonio’s southside, with their classic bright red exterior and iconic neon wagon sign.
Ralph and Lili started the business with a gift of $1000 from Ralph’s father, a cigar box for a register, and six picnic tables. Little Red Barn was a hands-on family effort with Ralph as both the butcher and cook, and Lili as the main hostess. For over 50 years, the business has stayed remained family effort, with Ralph and Lili’s daughters as the current owners and operators. Little Red Barn has now grown to become one of the largest steakhouses in Texas, seating nearly 800 patrons at a time!
The Hernandez family prides themselves in serving quality items, using the highest quality ingredients to create everything from their condiments to the premium Angus beef! Little Red Barn has an in-house butcher shop, where their beef has been cut daily by the same butcher for nearly 50 years. Their homemade recipes and methods have been the same since day one, ensuring customers will have a great meal every time!
In addition to serving great food, the Little Red Barn has also served many customers on more personal levels. Many families have been dining there for 3 to 4 generations, and have invited the restaurant to host their wedding receptions and family reunions. Families can depend on the restaurant for quality food, exceptional hospitality, and reasonable prices. The Little Red Barn has also served the City of San Antonio in providing many job opportunities for local residents. Many of their employees have been with the restaurant for over 30 years!
Whether you’re a returning customer, a new customer, or an employee the Little Red Barn strives to create memorable experiences that makes everyone feel like family!
Mertz Sausage Co
In 1929, Henry Mertz opened Mertz Sausage with the goal of producing high-quality, traditional Polish sausages using Texas ingredients. This unique combination has led Mertz to become one of the most recognizable and respected sausage manufacturers across south Texas!
Herman Mertz operated the business until about 1940 when he sold the business to Herman Haase. Hasss and his wife headed the company until 1972, when they sold the business to their then son-in-law Alex Peña. Peña remains the current owner and operator of Mertz and is still very hands-on in the day-to-day hustle. Although Mertz Sausage has experienced several shifts in management throughout their nearly 100-year run, their dedication to maintaining Mertz original recipes and traditions has not wavered!
Business really took off in the 1980s and 1990s. Mertz was at their largest operation, with about 28 employees working three shifts, making weekly deliveries of 20,000 pounds of sausage all over Texas. Despite this incredible growth, Mr. Peña found more value in staying local as they could cater to their community and better manage their products. Mertz Sausage remains located in San Antonio’s westside, remaining active in their community with their products, services, and overall integrity within and outside their facilities.
Today, Mertz reserves their distribution to local partners such as Arlan’s Markets, La Fiesta, and some Walmart locations in the city. You could also go straight to the source! Customers are welcome to stop by their facilities for fresh meat, packaged however you want it! Over the years, they’ve expanded their products to include several varieties of sausages, salami, and jerky. (Yum!) They’ve maintained traditional techniques of production to ensure their meats taste the same as they did in 1929!
Nicha’s Comida Mexicana
The Nicha’s story begins in 1977 with Gene and Dionisia Garcia. The couple first owned a self-serve car wash on the corner of E. White and Roosevelt. The Garcia’s had a leftover piece of land, and wanted to convert it into a second hustle. The Garcias decided to open a small Mexican restaurant named ‘Minit Taco.’ With recipes that were inspired by their family traditions and a small dining area, Minit Taco Quickly grew into a full-service restaurant with a loyal following. They were a favorite stop for people waiting in line to watch a movie from their car at the Mission Drive Inn Theatre, located right across the street. Their business quickly outgrew the small building. The Garcias got rid of the original structure, including the car wash, and converted the two properties into their restaurant.
Gene and Dionisia worked endlessly to create a good life for their children and to serve the surrounding southside community. Arthur Garcia, the current co-owner of the franchise, recounts, “They did not get to see each other as much as they would have liked to. They made many sacrifices for us and were able to pay for all of us to go to college. Neither my father nor mother graduated from high school, but they made sure we had every advantage to succeed in life and made sure we were able to go to college.” Arthur graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. After working as a probation officer and at the Federal Bureau of Prisons, he realized he missed the business world. He went back to San Antonio and reentered the family business.
Richard and Arthur bought the restaurant from their parents in 2003 and re-named it Nicha’s, short for Dionisia. In 2005, they built an additional room to add to the 90 seat restaurant. Business continues to grow. Nicha’s has since expanded to include two other locations, keeping the same quality of food and dining experience. They host mariachis on Friday nights, celebrating the culture of the southside. Richard and Arthur are both graduates of McCollum High School and proud to support the Harlandale District in many functions.
The business has grown as fast as their family, as Nicha’s has now incorporated the 3rd generation of Garcias into the family business. The legacy continues!
Pioneer Flour Mills
Pioneer Flour Mills has been one of the leading suppliers of baking mixes, custom desserts, and sauces in San Antonio for nearly 170 years. The flour mill was established in 1851 by Carl Hilmar Guenther, a German immigrant, near Fredericksburg, Texas. Guenther relocated the business in 1859 to San Antonio, and established it as “Guenther’s Best.” The flour mill is part of the larger Guenther House business which features the Guenther House restaurant and museum.
The flour mill experienced significant growth throughout the rest of the 19th century, and saw a major shift in their role as a local service in the early 20th century. Following food rationing practices of World War I, the flour mill worked diligently to meet the spike in demands. This led the mill to expand their facilities into the 20-story structure that stands today—a local landmark! The flour mill again would step up during the Great Depression and World War II, tailoring their products to support government initiatives to stimulate the economy and the war effort.
The mass marketing boom of the mid century pushed the mill to produce ready-to-make baking mixes and pre-packaged products (such as breakfast cereal). The growing trend in consumerism set up the Pioneer Flour Mills as a staple in many San Antonio homes for decades to come!
Pioneer Flour Mills has made many leaps and bounds in their business since the start of the new century. They’ve expanded their products, acquired new factory locations domestically and internationally, and have begun supplying flour products for some of the world’s largest food chains! Their rich history and longtime success earned them a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
From San Antonio to the world, Pioneer Flour Mills has had one legendary run!
Sanitary Tortilla Company
Sanitary Tortilla Manufacturing Company was first established in 1925 by Francisco Garcia, a Spanish immigrant. Francisco opened up the business during the run of the San Antonio “Chili Queens” — the semi-ambulant taco vendors that cooked chili con carne and tortillas, usually selling at the plazas of San Antonio. Francisco embarked on a controversial initiative to install the first tortilla-making machines in his factory. Initially the people of San Antonio were reluctant to accept "machine-made” tortillas. The goal was to produce tortillas, tacos, and tamales in more sanitary conditions. (Hence the name!)
With the industrialization of food across the country, San Antonians slowly began to accept the tortilla methods of Sanitary Tortillas. An emphasis on corn flour would change the tortilla industry and give Sanitary Tortillas more of an edge. Corn flour gave the tortillas a longer life, and made production cheaper. Sanitary Tortillas experienced steady growth throughout the 20th century. The business expanded and moved to their current location in 1971, just across the street from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.
The Sanitary Tortilla Company is creeping up on 100 years of service! Over the decades, they’ve maintained pure, non-artificial methods for producing some of the best tortillas in San Antonio. Eating Sanitary tortillas truly is a different experience!
Schilo’s Deli
Schilo's Deli started as a saloon in the 1900s in Beeville, Texas. Fritz "Papa” Schilo moved the saloon and his family to San Antonio in 1914 and Mama Schilo started serving some of her recipes a few years later in 1917. Her timing was perfect! In 1920 prohibition hit America and all saloons abruptly closed, but Schilo’s was able to survive. When prohibition hit and the guys couldn't toast with beer any longer, root beer took its place. Schilo’s developed and became known for their original root beer recipe!
In 1942, Schilo's moved to its current location which was originally a currency exchange bank. In fact, the original bank vault is now a walk-in cooler. After three generations of Schilo's, the Lyons family purchased the establishment in 1980 and has continued the proud German tradition of hard work, good cooking, and fun. Now, over 100 years old, Schilo's is the oldest operating restaurant in San Antonio.
With an open door policy, Schilo’s ownership remains approachable and empowers their team to be the best versions of themselves. Several of Schilo’s team members are active in the community, serving on several organization boards. These include The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, The Tourism Council, The San Antonio Riverwalk Association, Centro San Antonio, Rotary Club, The Convention Visitors Bureau, and Visit San Antonio. Schilo’s has made major contributions to Habitat for Humanity, United Way and Blue Santa programs in efforts to [mitigate] poverty and provide community service in San Antonio.
Schilo’s ownership understands the importance of being hands on and leading the next generation to carry the torch while staying true to their traditions and offer an authentic experience. Mr. Bill Lyons, third generation owner and President, has been responsible for daily operations, and is currently overseeing the financial operations. Mr. Lyons has transitioned the family business to the fourth generation with Mrs. Elizabeth Lyons Houston, Bill’s daughter, and Ms. Elaine Olivier, Bill’s niece. Through this fourth generation, Schilo's developed their first website, launching the family business into the digital age. Elaine and Elizabeth revamped the menu design and updated offerings, while maintaining the look and feel of the restaurant. Schilo’s is working to appeal to new (younger) customers with healthier options and increased their presence on social media. Through these digital avenues, Schilo’s has found new, innovative ways to emphasize quality and customer service.
Schilo's celebrated its 100th birthday in 2017. If its vintage tile floor, wooden booths and tin ceiling could talk, they wouldn’t just tell the story of two German American families who have owned and operated it; they’d also tell the stories of all the families from around the world who have visited Schilo's for generations.
Paris Hatters
Paris Hatters was founded in 1917 by the Cortez family, and has mostly been run by Abe “The Hatter” Cortez throughout the past decades. Paris Hatters is world famous for their expertise in providing quality custom-fitted and custom-shaped hats. Located right around the corner from the Alamo, Paris Hatters is one of the oldest surviving retail businesses in downtown San Antonio—selling more than 9,000 hats per year!
Paris Hatters is not just a hat store, it can also be seen as a time machine! The store has not changed much throughout their over 100 years of service; remaining in their same downtown location, doing business on their original equipment, and displaying their hats on the same wooden blocks they began with. “Abe the Hatter,” as he is known, and his wife Myrna, are third-generation owners of Paris Hatters. They believe in being hands-on at the store, personally operating it seven days a week.
Paris Hatters specializes in traditional, modern, and custom hats, ranging anywhere from $20 to $7,000 to serve a wide range of customers. Clients pick the quality, color and style (cowboy hats, fedoras, derbys or caps). Paris Hatters then takes the time to ensure that hats are fitted to match the customer’s height, shoulder width, weight and overall stature. You’ll walk out with an original look perfect for you. Their excellent cleaning, blocking (shaping), and general restoration services are always available to ensure that your look lasts a lifetime! Their expansive variety and outstanding care keeps Paris Hatters high on the list of any hat connoisseur.
Their traditional style, old-school hospitality, and genuine quality has attracted national and international attention. Countless celebrities and a couple of U.S. Presidents have dropped in to be fitted for a custom Paris Hatters hat. Some of the most iconic visitors include Dwight Yoakam, Pope John Paul II, Matt Damon, B.B. King, and Christian Louboutin! Paris Hatters has also been featured in publications of Southern Living, Texas Highways, the New York Times, and many more. They are a favorite spot of Frommers, the international travel book, and have been featured in a segment about San Antonio on the Travel Channel! Each year, they bring thousands of old hats to life by mailing them throughout the world. Making use of their inventory and sharing their custom traditions far out!
Abe and his team remain passionate, dedicated and diligent in providing the best experience for all who enter. Paris Hatters will truly never go out of style!
Penner’s
Penner’s was established in 1916 by Morris Penner, a Jewish immigrant from Poland. Morris began the business as a second-hand clothing and shoe store. After 14 years, his sons Ben, Max, and Sam Penner joined him and together they transitioned the store into a first-rate men’s clothing store.
Through the 1950s, Penner’s gained notoriety for selling Stacy Adams tangerine shoes to capture the pachuco style popular in San Antonio’s westside. It was the place to buy your tapita (hat), la lisa (shirt), tramados (pants), and calcos (shoes). In 1970, Penner’s was handed onto the third generation, as Sam gave the reins to his twin sons Mickey and Mark Penner.
In January of 1978, everything changed for Penner’s. An electrical fire raced through the building and destroyed everything. Fortunately, the kind neighbors of Frost Bank let Mickey and Mark use their lobby as a temporary storefront. A year later, Penner’s opened up on Commerce street where they remain today.
1997 was the year for a new generation to step in and take over. Sam’s grandson Matthew joined his father, uncle and grandfather and opened their retail up to the internet. Penner’s began selling their famous guayaberas online! The goal was for Penner’s to become the largest supplier of authentic guayaberas, and distribute them anywhere and everywhere people needed. These guayaberas are made in Mérida, in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Ten years later, Sam’s other grandsons Mitchell and Max Penner began their journey as a Penner’s salesmen.
Now in its 104th year, Penner’s continues to preserve westside, pachuco culture by maintaining local business methods while offering their services beyond San Anto. A Legacy Business indeed!
Image provide by Penner’s
Del Bravo Record Shop
Salome and Diamantina Guitierrez moved to San Antonio in 1951 from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, dreaming of success and starting a family. The couple spent the first ten years in Texas starting a family and working several jobs to maintain their home. Salome Gutierrez deeply enjoyed playing music and practiced songwriting. This passion led him and Diamantina to open Del Bravo Record Shop in San Antonio’s westside in 1966. The business has remained in the family ever since!
Del Bravo Records experience exceptional growth within the first few years of business, and were able to add three additional locations throughout the 1970s. Del Bravo’s catered to the Conjunto and Tejano culture of the surrounding area, with Flaco Jimenez and Lydia Mendoza as a couple of their most popular vinyls. Del Bravo has kept up well with the ever changing music technology throughout the decades, expanding their inventory to include compact discs.
Family has always been of major importance to the Del Bravo business. All eight of the Gutierrez children have contributed their time and knowledge to maintain the record shop. The tradition continues through the Gutierrez grandchildren, inciting new business ideas for longevity and innovation. 2016 was a rather bittersweet year for Del Bravo Records. The business celebrated their 50th anniversary and experienced the loss of Salome Gutierrez. Despite the emotional challenges, the Gutierrez family reflects on Salome’s hard work, passion, and dedication to his beloved community as motivation to preserve the music culture of the westside as best as they can! Diamantina continues to work the shop alongside five of her children. They maintain the same family and community values that Del Bravo Record Shop was founded on. The oldest operating record shop in San Antonio doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon!
Flip Side Record Parlor
Flip Side Record Parlor was established in 1972 by Doug Leasein at the height of a record shop boom in San Antonio. In its early decades, Flip Side became a cultural staple on the southside catering to all different kinds of music lovers. Doug believed that music truly was a way to bring all walks of life together to appreciate art and invention! Flip Side experienced the ups and downs of the ever-evolving music business, yet remained dedicated to preserving that classic record sound.
Clarisa Peña took over the business in 2011 when the business was at a point of uncertainty. The record industry in San Antonio had been declining with the advent of music streaming. Clarisa worked endlessly to keep Flip Side alive for the regulars and newcomers searching for some nostalgia. Unfortunately, Clarisa was diagnosed with cancer five years after she took over Flip Side. But that did not stop her, nor the community, from preserving this music culture. Clarisa’s story brought awareness to the declining record business in San Antonio, and the surrounding community quickly banded together and worked to keep this beloved treasure alive. Clarisa sadly passed away in January 2020, however, her dedication and legacy has drawn even more awareness and effort to keep building on Clarisa’s goals for the record shop.
The history of the Flip Side Record Parlor is a story of perseverance and triumph in evolving, unexpected times. We are excited to see how this community carries on the legacy!
Hogwild Records, Tapes, & CD’s
In March of 1982, David Risher took his business from a flea market booth to a brick and mortar property and established Hogwild Records.
At the time, San Antonio was home to a robust market of music retailers. To separate Hogwild’s from the pack, Risher began stocking styles of music that few chains cared to keep in their inventory and offered a special order service. San Antonians looking for non-mainstream albums were stuck hunting down records by mail order, a complicated process of the pre-internet days of the 1980s. However, Hogwild Records made alternative music much more accessible to unique listeners. 37 years later, Hogwild’s is holding firm in this method, giving equal attention to genres like obscure heavy metal, new wave, and local musicians.
Hogwild’s has experienced many ups and downs from the retail market, the boom of pre-recorded music, and the music streaming wave today. However, Hogwild Records remains dedicated to serving their local music community and their community is equally as dedicated to them!
There are some advantages to the internet, though. Through social media, and good old fashioned word-of-mouth, Hogwild’s has attracted customers across the country and across the world! The record-loving population seems to keep growing, and Mr. Risher is determined to keep feeding it!
Janie’s Record Shop
“You succeed doing what you love.” The famous motto of Juanita Esparza, owner and operator of Janie’s Record Shop. Drawing from her passion for LP’s, 45’s, cassettes, and Tejano culture, Ms. Esparza opened her business in 1985. For 35 years now, Janie’s Record Shop has been a staple in the Tejano music industry of San Antonio. Juanita has been recognized by the city and state several times for her dedication to preserving the artistic culture of her community.
Janie’s has been featured on the show “The Texas Bucket List,” Lure Magazine, and has received many awards from city organizations. Janie’s Record Shop has be recognized by various prestigious associations, receiving several awards and titles. These include: induction into the National Hispanic Hall of Fame (2003), Texas Talent Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award (2011), induction into the Narciso Martinez Conjunto Hall of Fame (2012), and induction into the South Texas Association Conjunto Hall of Fame (2015). Not only is Janie’s Record Shop recognized throughout the United States, the business has attracted international attention, drawing in customers from Japan, Holland, France, and Scotland!
Ms. Juanita Esparza herself has been recognized several times over with the San Antonio Star Gala Award (2010), the Women of WOW Shining Spirit Award (2012), and the San Antonio Alegre Award (2017). At 93 years old, Juanita continues to open her heart and arms to all music lovers—artists, fans, and everyone in between! Since day one, she has maintained a positive outlook and determination not only for her business but also in her life raising 14 children! The legacy of Janie’s Record Shop has been and will be carried on through her children with the same passion for Tejano culture.
Garcia Art Glass
Garcia Art Glass, Inc. is one of the few hot glass studios in the San Antonio area. Specializing in the functional to the whimsical, these one-of-a-kind hand blown art creations always enrich their environment while evoking wonder and amazement.
Gini Garcia, the founder and Creative Director, has worked all over the world building up her skill and reputation. After years of traveling and learning, Garcia established the Garcia Art Glass studio in 1998 in the Southtown arts area just before downtown. Garcia openly shares her unique style and invites customers to shop in and admire her constantly updated gallery. She also invites customers to channel their creative spirits through various workshops led by Garcia professionals. Or one can simply enjoy watching the professionals do it with regular live sessions!
Over the years, Garcia Art Glass has evolved into a family business with Gini's mother and her sister DoraElia Esparza each playing crucial roles in day-to-day operations. Through the support of a strong team, Garcia Art Glass has successfully created hundreds of commissioned works in public and private spaces throughout the city and beyond!
Gini Garcia is dedicated to transforming any space into a magical and meaningful masterpiece through this time-honored tradition. She applies this perspective to creating meaningful work experiences for her employees and meaningful experiences for customers! Garcia Art Glass values openness, creativity, and excitement, channeling this perspective into everything they do!
Harold’s Art & Framing
Harold’s Art & Framing was established in 1959 by Harold Kempfer. Harold was a U.S. Air Force veteran with a desire to continue working with his hands, and a love for the Italian plaster reproduction. With much energy and substantial knowledge of the craft, he set up his first shop on Roosevelt Avenue in 1960, across from the Riverside golf course. The extremely small shop was quickly overrun by excited customers from all corners of the city. Harold soon had to purchase and build additional workspace and warehousing for his booming business.
His expertise led to his partnership with many of San Antonio’s restoration contractors. Most of the large-scale projects in San Antonio were achieved with molds produced by Harold. Some of the most memorable projects include the Municipal Auditorium, the Sunset Depot, and the lobby of the Gunter Hotel.
Harold sought to expand his art skills and began taking oil painting lessons from several local artists. He extended this service to the southside community by opening the first art school in the area. This prompted him to begin selling framing and art supplies required for the classes, which then became Harold’s main service. However, with the recent passing of Harold Kempfer, the art school and the plaster production have discontinued. The business is now owned and operated by Kevin Sekula, and he worked to keep Harold’s legacy alive by keeping with the city's vested interest in the World Heritage corridor. Kevin draw on his experience as a former art teacher for Harold’s everyday, working carefully with customers to choose the perfect framing for various projects. Whether that’s original art work, sports jerseys, photos, and diplomas Harold’s Art & Framing can accommodate any need!
Mr. Sekula’s 40 years of partnership with Harold has given him the chance to create history as well as save it. Sekula is aware of the rapid development of the central and Southtown areas and has faced several challenges working within a historic building. However, Mr. Sekula feels that Harold’s location is open to opportunities for growth and revival. To realize this vision, Mr. Sekula has been in the process of converting the warehouse space into an artist studio. Only steps from the San Antonio river and situated between two Missions, the corner of Southcross and Roosevelt may return to being an art hub for the Southside! Harold’s Art & Framing is excited to be a part of the reinvestment and recognition of the Southside as a unique and vibrant community. The future could be bright!
Dixie Flag & Banner Company
Founded in 1958 by Henry P. Van de Putte, Sr., Dixie Flag & Banner has grown from a small home-based business to one of the most respected flag companies in the country! Their product array includes net street banners, avenue pole banners, US flags, country & state flags, school & athletic banners, feather & blade banners, table covers, signage, event décor, flagpoles, custom flags, banner installation services, flagpole installations and flagpole restrings. Basically, anything you could ever imagine!
Dixie Flag & Banner has been a part of some of the most monumental festivities throughout San Antonio. They’ve regularly produced flags and banner for the San Antonio Spurs, 100 Club of San Antonio, Valero Alamo Bowl, All-American Bowl, San Antonio Fiesta Commission, Fiesta Oyster Bake, Texas Folklife Festival, and numerous nonprofits and local fundraisers throughout the city.
Dixie Flag & Banner has also participated in National events. They‘ve produced many large scale flags including the largest free-flying United States flag in the world, a 60’ x 90’ flag that flies on the George Washington Bridge between New York and New Jersey. For the ten year anniversary of 9/11, this giant U.S. Flag was lent to the World Trade Center Memorial for exhibition at Ground Zero, which is now its permanent home. They have made 150’ x 300’ flags to cover entire football fields and have manufactured flags for the last five presidential inaugurations, and produce flags, guidons, and accessories for the United States military.
In 1969 they moved headquarters to Hemisfair Plaza, and again in 1974 to the 1900 block of Pan Am Expressway. Finally, in 1995, they built their current 3-story headquarters, which includes their manufacturing facilities and retail store. As of June 2, 2018 after 38 years as President and CEO, Henry “Pete” Van de Putte Jr. retired leaving 4th generation sister duo Vanessa and Isabella Van de Putte to carry on the family’s legacy. And what a legacy it is, as the Dixie Flag & Banner Company has played a hand in the growth of commercial and cultural industries of San Antonio!
Friedrich Air Conditioning
Ed Friedrich founded ‘Friedrich’ in 1883 in San Antonio, Texas. Ed was a a gifted craftsman, innovator and inventor. He recognized a need for food preservation and developed one of the first refrigeration systems, ultimately setting the course for the company’s 100+ year legacy.
By 1950, Friedrich had become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of commercial refrigeration equipment. To capitalize on its reputation as an industry leader, the company expanded into room air conditioners. The first 500 floating air window units came off the assembly line in 1952 and sales began to climb. Friedrich AC has taken many significant steps in HVAC innovation. Their milestones include the introduction of ductless split systems in the US, the first room air conditioner with electronic controls, and most recently the first Wi-Fi enabled smart room air conditioner. Friedrich AC remains one of the most recognized room air conditioning brands, known for commercial-grade durability and energy efficiency.
Today, Friedrich is recognized as the top brand of specialty air treatment products for the worldwide market, offering differentiated solutions for room air conditioning, dehumidification, and air purification. This innovation rests within the walls of some of San Antonio’s most notable structures from the Buckhorn Saloon to the San Antonio Zoo.
Despite the incredible growth, Friedrich AC is committed to staying in San Antonio and making their services available to local San Antonians for over 135 years!
Motel 3 Johnson Court
4302 S. Presa St Facebook
The Johnson Motor Courts were established in 1936 by the Stewart family, along with six other motor court motels in and around the city. The Stewarts were well aware of the rise in American families purchasing automobiles and taking family and business trips throughout the country. Overnight lodgings that were easily accessible from major highways and roadways became in demand. South Presa Street in San Antonio, Texas was such a thoroughfare leading to Corpus Christi and other towns along the way.
Motel 3’s nostalgic appearance and historic significance was recognized by Gabe Quintanilla and included in the movie “Selena” in 1997. Since then, the property has been a sought after backdrop for various indie and student led film projects, and used several times as a temporary art installation venue.
As competition with major hotel chains grew, many motor court motels in the country were abandoned, sold, or ultimately demolished. In San Antonio, motor court motels are slowly disappearing as few investors realize the importance of repurposing buildings and keeping the charm of the city. The property changed ownership twice before it was purchased by current proprietors Douglas and Leticia McCardle in 2005. The McCardles are committed to preserving the original structures of the Motel 3 Johnson Court through financial investment in maintenance, and personal dedication in daily operations. In 2006, each unit was carefully repaired and refurbished with an effort in keeping the original interior cabinetry, layouts and other interesting architectural features whenever possible. The stucco exterior of each unit was painted a different vibrant color which gives the property a distinctive presence on South Presa Street.
Motel 3 Johnson Court has been transformed into individual fully furnished cabins to meet the needs of the surrounding community by providing an affordable housing alternative to traditional apartment living. They truly are dedicated to serving and maintaining the surrounding community.
Sutton-Sutton & Woodards Mortuary Incorporated
Sutton & Sutton’s Mortuary was founded in 1936 by Samuel and Lillian Sutton on San Antonio’s East Side. Samuel and Lillian became educators and successful entrepreneurs, owning several businesses aside from the mortuary. They were known for their civil rights activism and deeply involved in the advancement of people in their community. The Suttons maintained this vision in their household with their 9 children, encouraging them to excel in various fields and obtain college and postgraduate degrees.
In 1938, two of their sons, G.J. Sutton and Samuel Sutton, took over the family’s funeral business. While operating the business G.J. became the first black elected official of Bexar County. He was a member of the board of trustees for the San Antonio Union Junior College district. He championed to increase the resources devoted to St. Philip’s College, a campus serving mostly Blacks and Hispanics, and was committed to effecting change in the city’s government in pursuit of racial equality.
In 1958 G.J. married Lou Nelle Sutton and they ran the mortuary together. After her husband’s death, Lou Nelle was elected as the district’s State Representative, filling her husband’s prior seat in the legislature.
Sutton & Sutton has been in operation for over 60 years as the oldest Black-owned mortuary in San Antonio. As the city has seen many changes and growth, the mortuary remains as an institution on the East Side and continues to support the needs of the community. Sutton & Sutton’s Mortuary is so deeply rooted in the history of Civil Rights in San Antonio. The Sutton family maintains the tradition of serving with dignity, distinction and dependability throughout their business endeavors and within the community. Their historical impact on combating inequality and this commitment to public service proves that they are truly legendary!
Image from the Sutton-Sutton Woodward’s Facebook
Santikos Enterprises
For over 100 years, the Santikos family has produced an unparalleled theater experience. But you won’t find the true story of their work ethic within the marquees. The history of Santikos Entertainment tells a larger story of serving the San Antonio community through entertainment, service, and economic opportunities.
In the early 1900s, 19 year old Louis Santikos left his home in Athens, Greece for central Texas. Louis initially worked stocking shelves and bagging canned goods at a local grocery store. As a grocer, he noticed the lines of people waiting outside the Rex Theatre across the street and realized the business potential of the theater industry. Louis worked to save whatever he could, and in 1911 he purchased that same theater, launching a legacy that would last for generations.
Over the next few decades, Louis’ son, John L. Santikos, would expand the business into over a dozen locations. By merging leading-edge technology with a comfortable atmosphere, John established Santikos as the premiere theatrical experience in the area.
Throughout his career, John committed Santikos Entertainment to philanthropy and community service. Santikos frequently made generous donations to local organizations and developed consistent partnerships with local arts organizations and charitable groups. When John passed away, he gave the bulk of his estate to the San Antonio Area Foundation. Today, Santikos Entertainment—and its more than 1,500 employees—remains dedicated to work solely for the benefit of the San Antonio community.
Santikos has been bringing service to entertainment for over 100 years. There is nothing like that moment when the lights go down, the sound goes up, and your attention locks on the screen above—except, of course, knowing that just by being there, you’re helping to make San Antonio a better place!
Image provided by Santikos Entertainment
Asociación de Charros de San Antonio
The Asociación de Charros de San Antonio was established in 1947 by a group of Mexican immigrants looking to carve a safe space for the free expression of Mexican culture. The Association is the first official Asociación de Charros in the United States, recognizeD by the Federación Nacional de Charrería in Mexico City! For over 70 years, the SA Charros Association has dedicated themselves to preserving Mexican heritage through their enduring dedication to charrería. Charrería is an elaborate presentation of traditional horsemanship that celebrates the development mestizo culture.
The SA Charros really spurred themselves into the spotlight with their Fiesta debut in 1948, as one of the first Hispanic organizations allowed to participate in the Battle of Flowers parade. Crowds were so enamored by their unique lifestyles, they earned themselves their very own Fiesta event called “Day in Old Mexico.”
In 1964, the Charros Association settled at their current location in the South Side. Their lienzo (arena) was built brick by brick by the association members, and maintained to this day by the members. The charros and escaramuzas are professionals who perform great feats of athleticism. They constantly maintain the skills necessary to participate in charreadas—regular competitions between charros teams that display great feats of athleticism. Charrería is not a hobby but a lifestyle. It’s common to see multiple members and generations of a family involved in the sport. Through the Association, these families have established friendships that have lasted lifetimes; the lienzo is like a second family.
Their continuous efforts to preserve their culture has encouraged groups across Texas to preserve their own heritage. The past 20 years, the number of teams in Texas has risen from 14 to about 50 who annually meet to compete, share ideas, and just celebrate their Mexican heritage.
Their establishment alone has played a significant role in reshaping the city to embrace Mexican culture at large, and encouraged other cities in Texas to embark on this cultural dedication. A legacy that defies borders and county lines!
El Torero
3407 S. Presa St. Facebook
El Torero Bar & Grill is located within the World Heritage path of the San Antonio Missions. Established in 1975, El Torero is a southside staple, serving up old-school eats and drinks, and preserving festive traditions of the surrounding community.
El Torero can be seen as your typical San Antonio bar with the typical drinks and sports ambiance that you can find anywhere. What makes El Torero unique is the longstanding relationships they’ve maintain with their customers. It’s common to find individuals and families who’ve been loyal to El Torero since the beginning, or since their parents started going there. These deep connections has led El Torero to become a reliable community partner. They are always ready to help out with fundraisers for local causes, catering family events, and supporting their local institutions.
El Torero still is the spot to have fun and let loose, often hosting live local bands and welcoming all who enter with a drink and a great attitude!
Steve’s & Sons Inc.
Some people pioneer a business, and some people are actual pioneers; Edward Steves is both! Edward Steves established a lumber business in San Antonio, Texas in 1866. Steve & Sons witnessed and aided in the economic and physical growth of San Antonio through lumber. Steve & Sons has become one of the most well-known lumber companies in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, as did Edward Steves’ reputation for hard work and dedication.
Building the business with his sons Edward Jr., Albert and Ernest, Edward Sr. envisioned his business to take care of the future generations of his family. His approach to the business established one of the key company philosophies: supply what’s needed today, stay ahead, and be ready to supply what’s needed tomorrow.
By 1879, Steves stocked an average of three million board feet of lumber, serving a rapidly developing frontier. In the 1890’s, with frame buildings and homes becoming more common, Steves expanded to supply doors, window and stair components. To keep distribution costs low and their products affordable, a millwork plant was established in 1904 and renamed in 1912 to Steves Sash & Door Company. By 1916, Steves Sash & Door Company was the largest millwork operation in the southwest.
During World War I, the millwork operation shifted production to aircraft propellers for the newly established Army Air Corp. Albert Steves was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the U.S. War Department. Operations were again converted to support the war effort during World War II, manufacturing joinery for Liberty ships. Albert Steves’ three sons enlisted in the military service and Albert, again, did what he could to help the country get restarted in gratitude for his sons’ safe return. Albert Steves was honored for a second time by the Maritime Commission, receiving the maximum 5-Star “M” Award for Excellence.
After the wars, Steves’ returned their attention to building quality products for homes, with an emphasis on doors. Steves leadership recognized the shift towards beauty, art and color as the country evolved from a land of pioneers to the growing culture of home ownership. New lines and styles of doors were manufactured, and between 1950 and 1970. The company officially changed their name to Steves & Sons and produced more than one million doors to serve a variety of home styles, needs, and décor. To reach new markets while continuing to deliver unmatched quality at an outstanding value, Steves & Sons opened two additional plants in Lebanon, Tennessee (1971) and Richmond, Virginia (1983).
With continued emphasis on quality materials, new technology and efficient distribution, Steves & Sons continues to build their reputation amongst builders and homeowners across the country. Edward Steves founded his company on the principles of conserving resources and environmental responsibility, while providing quality goods and service. That hallmark remains today in every item Steves and Sons manufacturers. From incorporating recycled materials, to making products that can conceivably last as long as the application, the Steves family is proud to build on the tradition of environmental respect and responsibility.
For over 140 years, (five generations later!) the Steves family has always maintained their commitment to quality, craftsmanship and style. And Steves & Sons will continue to offer quality and service at a fair price for generations to come.
Elizondo Flower Shop
Elizondo’s Flower Shop got started in the early 1920s, operating out of the home of the Elizondo family. The shop has been run by Olga Elizondo-Perez, the daughter of the original founders, throughout the past few decades. Olga’s parents built a simple, shotgun style home to raise their family. Their mother had an admiration for flowers, and avidly kept up a beautiful garden. Their home was on the way to the San Fernando Cemetery #2, which caught the eyes of San Antonians on the way to visit their loved ones. More and more people began to stop and ask if they could purchase their flowers to take to the graves they were visiting. Olga’s parents realized that they could use their beloved hobby as an extra means to provide for their family. Thus, Elizondo Flower Shop officially opened in 1921!
Olga Elizondo has always been very hands-on in her parents’ shop, learning the day-to-day business dealings and being involved in every arrangement. Olga has also been very active in her community, helping out local businesses whenever she can, volunteering her time, and getting to know the community. Since Olga took over the business, Elizondo’s flowers have been featured in some of the largest celebrations across the city. One of Olga’s proudest moments for her shop is when Elizondo created an extravagant flower arrangement for the arrival of Pope John Paul II at the San Fernando Cathedral in 1987.
Olga still holds so much excitement for creating arrangements for her community she held as a child. The business is still very much family operated, with Olga’s nieces and nephews stepping in and helping out. Elizondo Flower Shop will carry on the genuine appreciation for flowers that started the business for many years to come!
Dibble’s Hobbies
On June 1, 1955, Paul Marshall Johnson purchased Jack & Kim Dibble’s bicycle shop located near downtown San Antonio. Jack & Kim’s business had already been in operation for 50 years, specializing in sporting goods and small toys for the holiday season. The owners believe that Dibble’s has to be one of the oldest business names in San Antonio!
The Johnsons sought to further expand their toy inventory and relocated the shop to Houston street in 1957. They established a second location in an up-and-coming shopping mall strip later that same year. At the time, there were only two toy stores in town, Dibble’s and Ann & Tom Brown. As Dibble’s toy stock grew, so did their reputation for being the largest Lionel Trains dealer in the southwest. Which was a big deal because every kid needed a Lionel train in the 1950s! They carried a heavy inventory of Lionel all year round, though the trains sold the most during the holidays.
Throughout the 1950s and into the 1960s, TV toy advertising began to really take off, which brought about a more year round demand and toy stores. Several stores began opening up in almost every shopping centers all over the city. To distinguish themselves from the crowd, Dibble’s moved to include hobbies within their inventory such as, model planes and cars—toys that kids could build with their own hands! Dibble’s gradually dropped out of the toy business as TV and the mass merchandisers took over. According to the Johnsons, hobby customers were much more fun to serve as they handled their craft with more care.
The plastic model industry grew by leaps and bounds, and business really began to boom with new models coming in at more frequent intervals! Model cars in particular became popular in a big way. Kids loved displaying their models which inspired Dibble’s to hold car contests. The kids went wild for them, which led Dibble’s to close their downtown store to give more attention to neighborhood customers.
In the late 1960s, Dibbles dabbled in the art supply business and were pretty successful for some time. However, as the neighborhood changed and art supply competition increased, art supply sales declined, and Dibble’s readjusted their focus back to hobbies going into the 1970s.
Throughout the rest of the 20th century, Dibbles experienced significant growth which led to the physical growth of their storefront. Over the years, their dependance on neighborhood traffic became less and less. They began drawing customers from all over Texas, the U.S, and across the border!
Ownership changed in 1995 to the Chladek family, who maintains the same sense of fun, creativity, and competition! While staying up-to-date on the latest technological trends, the Chladeks would like everyone to remember that at their core they are classic hobbyists!
Rudy’s Feed Store
Rudy’s Feed Store was established sometime in the late 1930’s or early 1940’s by Rudolph Staffel. No original documentation can be found of the original establishment date. However, the business owners do have the 1946 etched into a portion of the original flooring when an addition to the original building was completed.
For over 80 years, Rudy’s Feed Store has been one of San Antonio’s oldest full service agricultural feed and retail pet stores. Rudy’s was the place for the ranchers to pick up feed and supplies on their way to and from the Union Stock Yards, when it was up and running. The agricultural business continues to thrive with many locals raising farm animals, and their retail pet sales and service steadily grows.
Couple Fernando Morales and Mary Louise Quintero ran the business from 1967 to 1970 when they were offered the opportunity to purchase the business from the original owners in 1971. Mary Louise continued to run the business until 2004 when she retired. Rudy’s Feed Store is still family-operated by second generation Gilbert Morales and his wife Elizabeth, instilling small business family values in their customer service.
For the past 27 years, Rudy’s Feed Store has partnered with a local veterinarian, Dr. Russell Bush, to provide a low cost vaccination clinic on the premises to the community and surrounding areas every Saturday. This service is well-known and only advertised through word-of-mouth!
Rudy’s Feed Store is sought out by customers for their animal, pet, and home maintenance advice and they strive to provide the best, most affordable options. For animals and projects big and small, locals have been coming back to Rudy’s for their honesty and reliability.
Rudy’s Feed Store is definitely a San Antonio Legacy Business with their all-encompassing commitment to creating the best pet and home environment.
Little’s Boot Company
In 1915, Lucien Little, a traveling shoe salesman, decided to settle down in San Antonio and establish a shoe-repair shop. Who knew that this would evolve into one of the finest custom boot makers in the country!
The shop attracted ranchers and cowboys who depended on their heavy boots for work—boots that could take a beating, sloshing through bogs and creeks, maintaining a firm grip on sand and sod. Ben Little, Lucien’s son, saw this as an opportunity to serve these specific needs. Ben started producing one-of-a-kind Little’s Boots, attracting even more business and soon earned the company a reputation for endurance and good fit.
In the 1940's, the ranchers and cowboys began moving into the city at a faster rate. The stockyard business was booming! To keep up with the style of the newcomers settling in San Antonio, Ben Little expanded their boot collection by designing fancy boots, with pointed toes, pitched heels and decorative inlays, overlays and dense rows of stitching. They also upgraded the shop with new offices, factory floors and stores.
Ben would incorporate his sons, John and Dave Little, in the family business. The boys grew up in the shop, watching and learning every phase of the business. After Ben Little died in 1966, the sons took over the family business. John Little, managed the family tradition, while Dave began transitioning the Little's Boot into a western cowboy dress in 1975.
Dave's oldest daughter, Sharon Little, came to Little's full time in 1985 after graduating from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Business Degree. Sharon introduced computers in the office for accounting and tracking production, orders and the mailing list. After running his own business of over twenty years, Sharon’s brother Duane decided to return to the family business. Like the three generations before them, Sharon and Duane are standing side by side with Dave as he works his way into semi-retirement.
Little's Boot Company represents the legendary style of San Antonio’s ranching history, maintaining the same dedication to quality and protection for over 100 years!
Image from Little’s Boot Company Instagram
Roddis Lumber & Veneer Company
Roddis Lumber & Veneer Company, LP was founded in 1922, originally as part of a parent company located in Marshfield, Wisconsin. In the early years, the company specialized in hardwood plywood, Douglas fir plywood, and flush wooden door distribution. Roddis eventually broke off to become an independent company, remaining in South Texas, and expanding their services to include industrial panel products, millwork, and larger selections of hardwood lumber. Roddis leadership has remained in the family, and is currently operated by their third generation!
Roddis has played a crucial role in the literal development of San Antonio, supplying the necessary materials to build a sturdy, sustainable city for nearly 100 years!. Roddis Lumber is woven into the architectural history of the city, what a legacy!
2M Smokehouse
2M Smokehouse was established in the spring of 2016 by Pit Master Esaul Ramos Jr. and CFO Joe J. Melig IV.
2M Smokehouse is one of the very few barbecue restaurants in San Antonio preserving the time-tested techniques of live fire smoking. These traditional cooking techniques and quality of food have grabbed the attention of Texas Monthly Magazine, Bon Appetite Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and even got recognized in 2018 for Eater’s Top 38 restaurants in the country.
2M Smokehouse was awarded the honor of representing San Antonio in 2019 through UNISCO’s city of gastronomy with a trip to Jeonju, South Korea. The team prepared barbacoa and had the pleasure of educating the crowd on the traditional method and cultural background of barbecue in San Antonio, and the history of Esaul and Joe’s ancestors that paved the way to what has become a barbecue destination.
The importance of preserving these techniques go well beyond the pictures captured by tourists or food bloggers. In the summer of 2019, Joe and Esaul teamed up with the East Central ISD Culinary program to offer a paid summer internship to students who took interest in barbecue. The students participating in the summer-only program eventually became permanent, weekend-only employees. Esaul and Joe commit themselves to giving students firsthand lessons in preserving what is slowly becoming a tradition of the past, and lessons on business management, customer service, and financial management.
This Legacy Business is planting seeds for the next generation of business owners and barbecue masters!
Bedoy's Bakery
Born in El Salto Juanacatlan, Jalisco, Manuel Bedoy learned the skill of baking sweet bread from his father. Mr. Bedoy moved to San Antonio in the 1950s and began working for the Castillo family, who owned one of the original Mexican bakeries in San Antonio. Here, Manuel met his future wife Emma Castillo who was working at her father’s bakery. In 1961 Manuel and Emma Bedoy went on to establish Bedoy’s Bakery.
With perseverance and hard work, they were able to succeed as one of the most recognized bakeries in San Antonio. Manuel Bedoy baked the first Roscas de Reyes in San Antonio and introduced a unique, colorful version of Pan de Muerto as part of the Dia de los Muertos celebration. The Bedoy’s spread their succedd throughout their community, often sponsoring local little league baseball and softball teams. Many of those kids, now adults, visit Bedoy’s Bakery with their families and remember how Manuel Bedoy provided pan dulce and milk after each game.
Today, Bedoy’s is in their fourth generations of bakers, preserving the original family recipes. Xavier Bedoy is the current owner of Bedoy’s Bakery, carrying on his grandparents‘ legacy. Bedoy’s now operated out of two locations, remaining very active in community and heritage events with their timeless treats!
The Bedoy family is very proud to celebrate their Mexican traditions through the simple act of baking bread.
Bolner’s Meat Company
Bolner’s Meat Market holds a magnificent story of immigration, tradition, and community service. Brothers Antonio and Joseph Bolner immigrated from Tyrol, Italy to Veracruz, Mexico in 1881. Mexican citizens particularly did not appreciate Italian immigrants working their lands, and often retaliated against them. As part of an appeal made by President Porfirio Díaz to the United States, Antonio and Joseph moved to Texas. Antonio and his wife Orsola settled in Del Río, while Joe and his wife Mary settled in San Antonio.
Joe and Mary built the current Bolner’s storefront in 1914, opening up a general store on the first floor and maintaining a home on the second floor. Joe and Mary had several relatives who handled animals and an uncle who learned how to butcher meat as a soldier during World War I. With their familial resources and a desire to serve the surrounding community, they transitioned the store into a meat market. Today, Bolner’s is one of the most well known meat markets in south Texas!
Bolner’s is highly valued within San Antonio as an honest brand with genuinely good products. They’ve become a classic! Despite their success and popularity, Bolner's stays true to their original values of family, quality, and community. Bolner’s offers a wide variety of Texas-produced meat, and carries an assortment of local products within their store. A classic San Antonio combo is Bolner’s meat seasoned with Clifton’s Fiesta Brand spices.
It doesn’t seem like Texas barbecue is going anywhere, so Bolner’s Meat Company will continue to to please the homes, hearts, and bellies of San Antonio and beyond!
Casa Rio
In 1946, Alfred Beyer embarked on an ambitious business endeavor and established the first restaurant on the San Antonio river. At that time, the river walk was considered dangerous off limits to military personnel. Once a new and struggling business, Casa Rio is now in the center of San Antonio's ever growing leisure and tourism business. The colorful umbrellas have become a symbol of the San Antonio Riverwalk.
Mr. Beyer always wanted to make a way for average people to be able to afford a nice meal with their families in a beautiful setting. He would often say, "There are more people that have a nickel rather than a dollar." Third and fourth generation owners Bill Lyons and Elaine Olivier adhere to the same principle by maintaining food quality at an affordable price. They do not believe in price gouging due to location or the beauty of the property.
Casa Rio understands the importance of contributing to the culture of San Antonio. They strive to be hands on while leading the next generation to carry the torch while staying true to the founding commitment to community. Several leadership members have served on The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, The Tourism Council, The San Antonio Riverwalk Association, Centro San Antonio, Rotary Club, The Convention Visitors Bureau, and Visit San Antonio. Casa Rio has also volunteered their resources with Habitat Humanity, San Antonio Graffiti Wipeout, United Way, and the Blue Santa program.
This “people first” outlook is also practiced within company walls. Casa Rio leadership believes that everyone deserves a balanced personal and professional life. Casa Rio provides substantial work benefits to their full-time staff. The idea is to make employees feel more like family by taking care of their needs and creating an enjoyable work environment. And their employees really do love what they do! Casa Rio has a core of long term employees including a few who retired after 50 or more years. Some of the team members are family outside of the Casa Rio family. One in particular, had as many as 23 members of their family working in the restaurant.
Casa Rio represents more than tourism, this business is a representation of local business involvement in building up the San Antonio community through service. Casa Rio welcomes anyone and everyone from anywhere within and outside of the city!
Asociación de Charros de San Antonio
The Asociación de Charros de San Antonio was established in 1947 by a group of Mexican immigrants looking to carve a safe space for the free expression of Mexican culture. The Association is the first official Asociación de Charros in the United States, recognizeD by the Federación Nacional de Charrería in Mexico City! For over 70 years, the SA Charros Association has dedicated themselves to preserving Mexican heritage through their enduring dedication to charrería. Charrería is an elaborate presentation of traditional horsemanship that celebrates the development mestizo culture.
The SA Charros really spurred themselves into the spotlight with their Fiesta debut in 1948, as one of the first Hispanic organizations allowed to participate in the Battle of Flowers parade. Crowds were so enamored by their unique lifestyles, they earned themselves their very own Fiesta event called “Day in Old Mexico.”
In 1964, the Charros Association settled at their current location in the South Side. Their lienzo (arena) was built brick by brick by the association members, and maintained to this day by the members. The charros and escaramuzas are professionals who perform great feats of athleticism. They constantly maintain the skills necessary to participate in charreadas—regular competitions between charros teams that display great feats of athleticism. Charrería is not a hobby but a lifestyle. It’s common to see multiple members and generations of a family involved in the sport. Through the Association, these families have established friendships that have lasted lifetimes; the lienzo is like a second family.
Their continuous efforts to preserve their culture has encouraged groups across Texas to preserve their own heritage. The past 20 years, the number of teams in Texas has risen from 14 to about 50 who annually meet to compete, share ideas, and just celebrate their Mexican heritage.
Their establishment alone has played a significant role in reshaping the city to embrace Mexican culture at large, and encouraged other cities in Texas to embark on this cultural dedication. A legacy that defies borders and county lines!
Del Bravo Record Shop
Salome and Diamantina Guitierrez moved to San Antonio in 1951 from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, dreaming of success and starting a family. The couple spent the first ten years in Texas starting a family and working several jobs to maintain their home. Salome Gutierrez deeply enjoyed playing music and practiced songwriting. This passion led him and Diamantina to open Del Bravo Record Shop in San Antonio’s westside in 1966. The business has remained in the family ever since!
Del Bravo Records experience exceptional growth within the first few years of business, and were able to add three additional locations throughout the 1970s. Del Bravo’s catered to the Conjunto and Tejano culture of the surrounding area, with Flaco Jimenez and Lydia Mendoza as a couple of their most popular vinyls. Del Bravo has kept up well with the ever changing music technology throughout the decades, expanding their inventory to include compact discs.
Family has always been of major importance to the Del Bravo business. All eight of the Gutierrez children have contributed their time and knowledge to maintain the record shop. The tradition continues through the Gutierrez grandchildren, inciting new business ideas for longevity and innovation. 2016 was a rather bittersweet year for Del Bravo Records. The business celebrated their 50th anniversary and experienced the loss of Salome Gutierrez. Despite the emotional challenges, the Gutierrez family reflects on Salome’s hard work, passion, and dedication to his beloved community as motivation to preserve the music culture of the westside as best as they can! Diamantina continues to work the shop alongside five of her children. They maintain the same family and community values that Del Bravo Record Shop was founded on. The oldest operating record shop in San Antonio doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon!
Del Rio Tortilla Factory
The Del Río Tortilla Factory was established in 1974 by Mr. Perez, a U.S. Army veteran with a desire to reclaim and preserve the Mexican traditions he carried within his home. What better way to do that than with food!? Del Río’s products have been described as small “tastes of Mexico,” gaining them an ever growing following with the same appreciation for their Mexican heritage.
The storefront was founded on one of the classic staples of Mexican cuisine: tortillas! Flour and corn tortillas may be fairly simple to make, and can be easily bought from any HEB. However, Del Río’s creates one-of-a-kind tortillas using a 40 year old recipe that are definitely worth the wait. What you’re tasting is a perfected family tradition!
Del Río’s has expanded into producing other staples that are also near and dear to the hearts and bellies of San Antonians such as tamales, menudo, barbacoa. All Sunday morning breakfast must-haves! Their tamales are especially popular during the holiday season! Del Río’s is known to draw in crowds of people who begin forming a line outside their doors before the sun rises. Del Río’s is there for the grandest and simplest family traditions!
The Del Río Tortilla Factory is considered a Legacy Business because they avidly help their community celebrate their culture by providing the homegrown ingredients to do so. With an unwavering commitment to tradition and service, it doesn’t seem like the Del Río Tortilla Factory will ever lose a spot at our kitchen table!
Dibble's Hobbies
On June 1, 1955, Paul Marshall Johnson purchased Jack & Kim Dibble’s bicycle shop located near downtown San Antonio. Jack & Kim’s business had already been in operation for 50 years, specializing in sporting goods and small toys for the holiday season. The owners believe that Dibble’s has to be one of the oldest business names in San Antonio!
The Johnsons sought to further expand their toy inventory and relocated the shop to Houston street in 1957. They established a second location in an up-and-coming shopping mall strip later that same year. At the time, there were only two toy stores in town, Dibble’s and Ann & Tom Brown. As Dibble’s toy stock grew, so did their reputation for being the largest Lionel Trains dealer in the southwest. Which was a big deal because every kid needed a Lionel train in the 1950s! They carried a heavy inventory of Lionel all year round, though the trains sold the most during the holidays.
Throughout the 1950s and into the 1960s, TV toy advertising began to really take off, which brought about a more year round demand and toy stores. Several stores began opening up in almost every shopping centers all over the city. To distinguish themselves from the crowd, Dibble’s moved to include hobbies within their inventory such as, model planes and cars—toys that kids could build with their own hands! Dibble’s gradually dropped out of the toy business as TV and the mass merchandisers took over. According to the Johnsons, hobby customers were much more fun to serve as they handled their craft with more care.
The plastic model industry grew by leaps and bounds, and business really began to boom with new models coming in at more frequent intervals! Model cars in particular became popular in a big way. Kids loved displaying their models which inspired Dibble’s to hold car contests. The kids went wild for them, which led Dibble’s to close their downtown store to give more attention to neighborhood customers.
In the late 1960s, Dibbles dabbled in the art supply business and were pretty successful for some time. However, as the neighborhood changed and art supply competition increased, art supply sales declined, and Dibble’s readjusted their focus back to hobbies going into the 1970s.
Throughout the rest of the 20th century, Dibbles experienced significant growth which led to the physical growth of their storefront. Over the years, their dependance on neighborhood traffic became less and less. They began drawing customers from all over Texas, the U.S, and across the border!
Ownership changed in 1995 to the Chladek family, who maintains the same sense of fun, creativity, and competition! While staying up-to-date on the latest technological trends, the Chladeks would like everyone to remember that at their core they are classic hobbyists!
Dixie Flag & Banner Company
Founded in 1958 by Henry P. Van de Putte, Sr., Dixie Flag & Banner has grown from a small home-based business to one of the most respected flag companies in the country! Their product array includes net street banners, avenue pole banners, US flags, country & state flags, school & athletic banners, feather & blade banners, table covers, signage, event décor, flagpoles, custom flags, banner installation services, flagpole installations and flagpole restrings. Basically, anything you could ever imagine!
Dixie Flag & Banner has been a part of some of the most monumental festivities throughout San Antonio. They’ve regularly produced flags and banner for the San Antonio Spurs, 100 Club of San Antonio, Valero Alamo Bowl, All-American Bowl, San Antonio Fiesta Commission, Fiesta Oyster Bake, Texas Folklife Festival, and numerous nonprofits and local fundraisers throughout the city.
Dixie Flag & Banner has also participated in National events. They‘ve produced many large scale flags including the largest free-flying United States flag in the world, a 60’ x 90’ flag that flies on the George Washington Bridge between New York and New Jersey. For the ten year anniversary of 9/11, this giant U.S. Flag was lent to the World Trade Center Memorial for exhibition at Ground Zero, which is now its permanent home. They have made 150’ x 300’ flags to cover entire football fields and have manufactured flags for the last five presidential inaugurations, and produce flags, guidons, and accessories for the United States military.
In 1969 they moved headquarters to Hemisfair Plaza, and again in 1974 to the 1900 block of Pan Am Expressway. Finally, in 1995, they built their current 3-story headquarters, which includes their manufacturing facilities and retail store. As of June 2, 2018 after 38 years as President and CEO, Henry “Pete” Van de Putte Jr. retired leaving 4th generation sister duo Vanessa and Isabella Van de Putte to carry on the family’s legacy. And what a legacy it is, as the Dixie Flag & Banner Company has played a hand in the growth of commercial and cultural industries of San Antonio!
El Torero
3407 S. Presa St. Facebook
El Torero Bar & Grill is located within the World Heritage path of the San Antonio Missions. Established in 1975, El Torero is a southside staple, serving up old-school eats and drinks, and preserving festive traditions of the surrounding community.
El Torero can be seen as your typical San Antonio bar with the typical drinks and sports ambiance that you can find anywhere. What makes El Torero unique is the longstanding relationships they’ve maintain with their customers. It’s common to find individuals and families who’ve been loyal to El Torero since the beginning, or since their parents started going there. These deep connections has led El Torero to become a reliable community partner. They are always ready to help out with fundraisers for local causes, catering family events, and supporting their local institutions.
El Torero still is the spot to have fun and let loose, often hosting live local bands and welcoming all who enter with a drink and a great attitude!
Elizondo Flower Shop
Elizondo’s Flower Shop got started in the early 1920s, operating out of the home of the Elizondo family. The shop has been run by Olga Elizondo-Perez, the daughter of the original founders, throughout the past few decades. Olga’s parents built a simple, shotgun style home to raise their family. Their mother had an admiration for flowers, and avidly kept up a beautiful garden. Their home was on the way to the San Fernando Cemetery #2, which caught the eyes of San Antonians on the way to visit their loved ones. More and more people began to stop and ask if they could purchase their flowers to take to the graves they were visiting. Olga’s parents realized that they could use their beloved hobby as an extra means to provide for their family. Thus, Elizondo Flower Shop officially opened in 1921!
Olga Elizondo has always been very hands-on in her parents’ shop, learning the day-to-day business dealings and being involved in every arrangement. Olga has also been very active in her community, helping out local businesses whenever she can, volunteering her time, and getting to know the community. Since Olga took over the business, Elizondo’s flowers have been featured in some of the largest celebrations across the city. One of Olga’s proudest moments for her shop is when Elizondo created an extravagant flower arrangement for the arrival of Pope John Paul II at the San Fernando Cathedral in 1987.
Olga still holds so much excitement for creating arrangements for her community she held as a child. The business is still very much family operated, with Olga’s nieces and nephews stepping in and helping out. Elizondo Flower Shop will carry on the genuine appreciation for flowers that started the business for many years to come!
Flip Side Record Parlor
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186 opened the doors in April 1973. The Post was founded and chartered on April 8, 1957 by 67 original members who were veterans of World War II and the Korean War. Today, the Post is made up of 600 members sho served throughout various eras of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The VFW Post is a non-profit organization that is chartered to serve all veterans, their families, and the community. The members continue serving the community through many activities here in the Historical Mission San Jose Neighborhood. These activities include political rallies, fundraisers, small business outreach, church events, food drives, scholarship programs, veteran’s assistance programs, support of youth athletic programs in conjunction with the nearby YMCA, presenting patriotic displays and teaching civic lessons at the Mission Library, and memorial services. The Post also supports Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) at Southside and Burbank High School, as well as many area middle and elementary schools teaching civics and flag etiquette.
Most outstanding is their Veteran outreach programs. The VFW assists all veterans in need of filing, tracking, and advocating VA claims. Providing transportation, funding, and assisting in payments for utilities to veterans on fixed incomes.
VFW Post 9186 provides a safe and affordable environment for local veterans. The VFW 9186 never skips an opportunity to raise awareness of veterans’ needs, recognizing their unparalleled sacrifices. VFW Post 9186 runs on service, camaraderie, and acceptance that warms the hearts of all who enter.
Friedrich Air Conditioning
Ed Friedrich founded ‘Friedrich’ in 1883 in San Antonio, Texas. Ed was a a gifted craftsman, innovator and inventor. He recognized a need for food preservation and developed one of the first refrigeration systems, ultimately setting the course for the company’s 100+ year legacy.
By 1950, Friedrich had become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of commercial refrigeration equipment. To capitalize on its reputation as an industry leader, the company expanded into room air conditioners. The first 500 floating air window units came off the assembly line in 1952 and sales began to climb. Friedrich AC has taken many significant steps in HVAC innovation. Their milestones include the introduction of ductless split systems in the US, the first room air conditioner with electronic controls, and most recently the first Wi-Fi enabled smart room air conditioner. Friedrich AC remains one of the most recognized room air conditioning brands, known for commercial-grade durability and energy efficiency.
Today, Friedrich is recognized as the top brand of specialty air treatment products for the worldwide market, offering differentiated solutions for room air conditioning, dehumidification, and air purification. This innovation rests within the walls of some of San Antonio’s most notable structures from the Buckhorn Saloon to the San Antonio Zoo.
Despite the incredible growth, Friedrich AC is committed to staying in San Antonio and making their services available to local San Antonians for over 135 years!
Frontier Enterprises (Jim's Restaurants)
In 1947, the young entrepreneur G. “Jim” Hasslocher opened a small bicycle rental business at the front gate of San Antonio’s Brackenridge Park. In the summertime, he‘d sell sliced, ice-cold watermelon. It was here that he met his wife and lifetime business partner, Veva Ball. The business duo expanded the stand and began selling charcoal-broiled hamburgers, which evolved into the first Frontier Drive-In. The popular drive-in soon became famous for its burgers, onion rings, milkshakes and carhops.
The Hasslocher’s aim has always been to feed the average family above-average meals. With the highest quality food at the lowest possible price, Jim’s Restaurants have garnered a loyal following throughout the decades. As this following grew, Frontier Enterprises began to expand Jim’s Restaurants throughout San Antonio and Austin. Other restaurants they’ve added to their chain include The Magic Time Machine and the original Frontier Burger, offering the same great value and outstanding quality!
Jim passed away in 2015 at the age of 93. But up until the day he left us, he was hard at work making sure all of his restaurants were delivering quality, affordability and great customer service. The iconic Jim’s logo can be found throughout San Antonio, welcoming diverse communities to the Frontier Enterprises story.
Garcia Art Glass
2M Smokehouse was established in the spring of 2016 by Pit Master Esaul Ramos Jr. and CFO Joe J. Melig IV.
2M Smokehouse is one of the very few barbecue restaurants in San Antonio preserving the time-tested techniques of live fire smoking. These traditional cooking techniques and quality of food have grabbed the attention of Texas Monthly Magazine, Bon Appetite Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and even got recognized in 2018 for Eater’s Top 38 restaurants in the country.
2M Smokehouse was awarded the honor of representing San Antonio in 2019 through UNISCO’s city of gastronomy with a trip to Jeonju, South Korea. The team prepared barbacoa and had the pleasure of educating the crowd on the traditional method and cultural background of barbecue in San Antonio, and the history of Esaul and Joe’s ancestors that paved the way to what has become a barbecue destination.
The importance of preserving these techniques go well beyond the pictures captured by tourists or food bloggers. In the summer of 2019, Joe and Esaul teamed up with the East Central ISD Culinary program to offer a paid summer internship to students who took interest in barbecue. The students participating in the summer-only program eventually became permanent, weekend-only employees. Esaul and Joe commit themselves to giving students firsthand lessons in preserving what is slowly becoming a tradition of the past, and lessons on business management, customer service, and financial management.
Harold's Art & Framing
Harold’s Art & Framing was established in 1959 by Harold Kempfer. Harold was a U.S. Air Force veteran with a desire to continue working with his hands, and a love for the Italian plaster reproduction. With much energy and substantial knowledge of the craft, he set up his first shop on Roosevelt Avenue in 1960, across from the Riverside golf course. The extremely small shop was quickly overrun by excited customers from all corners of the city. Harold soon had to purchase and build additional workspace and warehousing for his booming business.
His expertise led to his partnership with many of San Antonio’s restoration contractors. Most of the large-scale projects in San Antonio were achieved with molds produced by Harold. Some of the most memorable projects include the Municipal Auditorium, the Sunset Depot, and the lobby of the Gunter Hotel.
Harold sought to expand his art skills and began taking oil painting lessons from several local artists. He extended this service to the southside community by opening the first art school in the area. This prompted him to begin selling framing and art supplies required for the classes, which then became Harold’s main service. However, with the recent passing of Harold Kempfer, the art school and the plaster production have discontinued. The business is now owned and operated by Kevin Sekula, and he worked to keep Harold’s legacy alive by keeping with the city's vested interest in the World Heritage corridor. Kevin draw on his experience as a former art teacher for Harold’s everyday, working carefully with customers to choose the perfect framing for various projects. Whether that’s original art work, sports jerseys, photos, and diplomas Harold’s Art & Framing can accommodate any need!
Mr. Sekula’s 40 years of partnership with Harold has given him the chance to create history as well as save it. Sekula is aware of the rapid development of the central and Southtown areas and has faced several challenges working within a historic building. However, Mr. Sekula feels that Harold’s location is open to opportunities for growth and revival. To realize this vision, Mr. Sekula has been in the process of converting the warehouse space into an artist studio. Only steps from the San Antonio river and situated between two Missions, the corner of Southcross and Roosevelt may return to being an art hub for the Southside! Harold’s Art & Framing is excited to be a part of the reinvestment and recognition of the Southside as a unique and vibrant community. The future could be bright!
Hogwild Records
In March of 1982, David Risher took his business from a flea market booth to a brick and mortar property and established Hogwild Records.
At the time, San Antonio was home to a robust market of music retailers. To separate Hogwild’s from the pack, Risher began stocking styles of music that few chains cared to keep in their inventory and offered a special order service. San Antonians looking for non-mainstream albums were stuck hunting down records by mail order, a complicated process of the pre-internet days of the 1980s. However, Hogwild Records made alternative music much more accessible to unique listeners. 37 years later, Hogwild’s is holding firm in this method, giving equal attention to genres like obscure heavy metal, new wave, and local musicians.
Hogwild’s has experienced many ups and downs from the retail market, the boom of pre-recorded music, and the music streaming wave today. However, Hogwild Records remains dedicated to serving their local music community and their community is equally as dedicated to them!
There are some advantages to the internet, though. Through social media, and good old fashioned word-of-mouth, Hogwild’s has attracted customers across the country and across the world! The record-loving population seems to keep growing, and Mr. Risher is determined to keep feeding it!
Janie's Record Shop
715 S. Alamo Street Website https://www.instagram.com/garciaartglass/ Facebook Videos
Garcia Art Glass, Inc. is one of the few hot glass studios in the San Antonio area. Specializing in the functional to the whimsical, these one-of-a-kind hand blown art creations always enrich their environment while evoking wonder and amazement.
Gini Garcia, the founder and Creative Director, has worked all over the world building up her skill and reputation. After years of traveling and learning, Garcia established the Garcia Art Glass studio in 1998 in the Southtown arts area just before downtown. Garcia openly shares her unique style and invites customers to shop in and admire her constantly updated gallery. She also invites customers to channel their creative spirits through various workshops led by Garcia professionals. Or one can simply enjoy watching the professionals do it with regular live sessions!
Over the years, Garcia Art Glass has evolved into a family business with Gini's mother and her sister DoraElia Esparza each playing crucial roles in day-to-day operations. Through the support of a strong team, Garcia Art Glass has successfully created hundreds of commissioned works in public and private spaces throughout the city and beyond!
Gini Garcia is dedicated to transforming any space into a magical and meaningful masterpiece through this time-honored tradition. She applies this perspective to creating meaningful work experiences for her employees and meaningful experiences for customers! Garcia Art Glass values openness, creativity, and excitement, channeling this perspective into everything they do!
La Familia Cortez Restaurants
Harold’s Art & Framing was established in 1959 by Harold Kempfer. Harold was a U.S. Air Force veteran with a desire to continue working with his hands, and a love for the Italian plaster reproduction. With much energy and substantial knowledge of the craft, he set up his first shop on Roosevelt Avenue in 1960, across from the Riverside golf course. The extremely small shop was quickly overrun by excited customers from all over the city. Harold soon had to purchase and build additional workspace and warehousing for his booming business.
His expertise led to his partnership with many of San Antonio’s restoration contractors. Most of the large-scale projects in San Antonio were achieved with molds produced by Harold. Some of the most memorable projects include the Municipal Auditorium, the Sunset Depot, and the lobby of the Gunter Hotel.
Harold sought to expand his art skills and began taking oil painting lessons from several local artists. He extended this service to the South Side community by opening the first art school in this area. This prompted him to begin selling framing and art supplies required for the classes, which became Harold’s main service.
With the recent passing of Harold Kempfer, the art school and the plaster production have discontinued. The business is now owned and operated by Kevin Sekula, and he worked to keep Harold’s legacy alive by keeping with the city's vested interest in the World Heritage corridor.
Mr. Sekula’s 40 years of partnership with Harold has given him the chance to create history as well as save it. Sekula is aware of the rapid development of the central and Southtown areas and has faced several challenges working within a historic building. The huge interest in the missions by tourists visiting the city has seldom translated into extended stays in the neighborhood or utilization of local businesses. However, with the city’s vision and leadership, this neighborhood can become the gem that it deserves. Harold’s Art & Framing hopes to be part of that process while finding a grand use for the property. The future could be bright!
Little Red Barn Steakhouse
The Little Red Barn Steakhouse was founded by Ralph and Lili Hernandez, opening its doors on Labor Day of 1963. The Little Red Barn has remained in its original location in San Antonio’s southside, with their classic bright red exterior and iconic neon wagon sign.
Ralph and Lili started the business with a gift of $1000 from Ralph’s father, a cigar box for a register, and six picnic tables. Little Red Barn was a hands-on family effort with Ralph as both the butcher and cook, and Lili as the main hostess. For over 50 years, the business has stayed remained family effort, with Ralph and Lili’s daughters as the current owners and operators. Little Red Barn has now grown to become one of the largest steakhouses in Texas, seating nearly 800 patrons at a time!
The Hernandez family prides themselves in serving quality items, using the highest quality ingredients to create everything from their condiments to the premium Angus beef! Little Red Barn has an in-house butcher shop, where their beef has been cut daily by the same butcher for nearly 50 years. Their homemade recipes and methods have been the same since day one, ensuring customers will have a great meal every time!
In addition to serving great food, the Little Red Barn has also served many customers on more personal levels. Many families have been dining there for 3 to 4 generations, and have invited the restaurant to host their wedding receptions and family reunions. Families can depend on the restaurant for quality food, exceptional hospitality, and reasonable prices. The Little Red Barn has also served the City of San Antonio in providing many job opportunities for local residents. Many of their employees have been with the restaurant for over 30 years!
Whether you’re a returning customer, a new customer, or an employee the Little Red Barn strives to create memorable experiences that makes everyone feel like family!
Little's Boots
In 1915, Lucien Little, a traveling shoe salesman, decided to settle down in San Antonio and establish a shoe-repair shop. Who knew that this would evolve into one of the finest custom boot makers in the country!
The shop attracted ranchers and cowboys who depended on their heavy boots for work—boots that could take a beating, sloshing through bogs and creeks, maintaining a firm grip on sand and sod. Ben Little, Lucien’s son, saw this as an opportunity to serve these specific needs. Ben started producing one-of-a-kind Little’s Boots, attracting even more business and soon earned the company a reputation for endurance and good fit.
In the 1940's, the ranchers and cowboys began moving into the city at a faster rate. The stockyard business was booming! To keep up with the style of the newcomers settling in San Antonio, Ben Little expanded their boot collection by designing fancy boots, with pointed toes, pitched heels and decorative inlays, overlays and dense rows of stitching. They also upgraded the shop with new offices, factory floors and stores.
Ben would incorporate his sons, John and Dave Little, in the family business. The boys grew up in the shop, watching and learning every phase of the business. After Ben Little died in 1966, the sons took over the family business. John Little, managed the family tradition, while Dave began transitioning the Little's Boot into a western cowboy dress in 1975.
Dave's oldest daughter, Sharon Little, came to Little's full time in 1985 after graduating from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Business Degree. Sharon introduced computers in the office for accounting and tracking production, orders and the mailing list. After running his own business of over twenty years, Sharon’s brother Duane decided to return to the family business. Like the three generations before them, Sharon and Duane are standing side by side with Dave as he works his way into semi-retirement.
Little's Boot Company represents the legendary style of San Antonio’s ranching history, maintaining the same dedication to quality and protection for over 100 years!
Mertz Sausage
In 1929, Henry Mertz opened Mertz Sausage with the goal of producing high-quality, traditional Polish sausages using Texas ingredients. This unique combination has led Mertz to become one of the most recognizable and respected sausage manufacturers across south Texas!
Herman Mertz operated the business until about 1940 when he sold the business to Herman Haase. Hasss and his wife headed the company until 1972, when they sold the business to their then son-in-law Alex Peña. Peña remains the current owner and operator of Mertz and is still very hands-on in the day-to-day hustle. Although Mertz Sausage has experienced several shifts in management throughout their nearly 100-year run, their dedication to maintaining Mertz original recipes and traditions has not wavered!
Business really took off in the 1980s and 1990s. Mertz was at their largest operation, with about 28 employees working three shifts, making weekly deliveries of 20,000 pounds of sausage all over Texas. Despite this incredible growth, Mr. Peña found more value in staying local as they could cater to their community and better manage their products. Mertz Sausage remains located in San Antonio’s westside, remaining active in their community with their products, services, and overall integrity within and outside their facilities.
Today, Mertz reserves their distribution to local partners such as Arlan’s Markets, La Fiesta, and some Walmart locations in the city. You could also go straight to the source! Customers are welcome to stop by their facilities for fresh meat, packaged however you want it! Over the years, they’ve expanded their products to include several varieties of sausages, salami, and jerky. (Yum!) They’ve maintained traditional techniques of production to ensure their meats taste the same as they did in 1929!
Motel 3 Johnson Court
4302 S. Presa St Facebook
The Johnson Motor Courts were established in 1936 by the Stewart family, along with six other motor court motels in and around the city. The Stewarts were well aware of the rise in American families purchasing automobiles and taking family and business trips throughout the country. Overnight lodgings that were easily accessible from major highways and roadways became in demand. South Presa Street in San Antonio, Texas was such a thoroughfare leading to Corpus Christi and other towns along the way.
Motel 3’s nostalgic appearance and historic significance was recognized by Gabe Quintanilla and included in the movie “Selena” in 1997. Since then, the property has been a sought after backdrop for various indie and student led film projects, and used several times as a temporary art installation venue.
As competition with major hotel chains grew, many motor court motels in the country were abandoned, sold, or ultimately demolished. In San Antonio, motor court motels are slowly disappearing as few investors realize the importance of repurposing buildings and keeping the charm of the city. The property changed ownership twice before it was purchased by current proprietors Douglas and Leticia McCardle in 2005. The McCardles are committed to preserving the original structures of the Motel 3 Johnson Court through financial investment in maintenance, and personal dedication in daily operations. In 2006, each unit was carefully repaired and refurbished with an effort in keeping the original interior cabinetry, layouts and other interesting architectural features whenever possible. The stucco exterior of each unit was painted a different vibrant color which gives the property a distinctive presence on South Presa Street.
Motel 3 Johnson Court has been transformed into individual fully furnished cabins to meet the needs of the surrounding community by providing an affordable housing alternative to traditional apartment living. They truly are dedicated to serving and maintaining the surrounding community.
Nicha's Comida Mexicana
The Nicha’s story begins in 1977 with Gene and Dionisia Garcia. The couple first owned a self-serve car wash on the corner of E. White and Roosevelt. The Garcia’s had a leftover piece of land, and wanted to convert it into a second hustle. The Garcias decided to open a small Mexican restaurant named ‘Minit Taco.’ With recipes that were inspired by their family traditions and a small dining area, Minit Taco Quickly grew into a full-service restaurant with a loyal following. They were a favorite stop for people waiting in line to watch a movie from their car at the Mission Drive Inn Theatre, located right across the street. Their business quickly outgrew the small building. The Garcias got rid of the original structure, including the car wash, and converted the two properties into their restaurant.
Gene and Dionisia worked endlessly to create a good life for their children and to serve the surrounding southside community. Arthur Garcia, the current co-owner of the franchise, recounts, “They did not get to see each other as much as they would have liked to. They made many sacrifices for us and were able to pay for all of us to go to college. Neither my father nor mother graduated from high school, but they made sure we had every advantage to succeed in life and made sure we were able to go to college.” Arthur graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. After working as a probation officer and at the Federal Bureau of Prisons, he realized he missed the business world. He went back to San Antonio and reentered the family business.
Richard and Arthur bought the restaurant from their parents in 2003 and re-named it Nicha’s, short for Dionisia. In 2005, they built an additional room to add to the 90 seat restaurant. Business continues to grow. Nicha’s has since expanded to include two other locations, keeping the same quality of food and dining experience. They host mariachis on Friday nights, celebrating the culture of the southside. Richard and Arthur are both graduates of McCollum High School and proud to support the Harlandale District in many functions.
The business has grown as fast as their family, as Nicha’s has now incorporated the 3rd generation of Garcias into the family business. The legacy continues!
Paris Hatters
Paris Hatters was founded in 1917 by the Cortez family, and has mostly been run by Abe “The Hatter” Cortez throughout the past decades. Paris Hatters is world famous for their expertise in providing quality custom-fitted and custom-shaped hats. Located right around the corner from the Alamo, Paris Hatters is one of the oldest surviving retail businesses in downtown San Antonio—selling more than 9,000 hats per year!
Paris Hatters is not just a hat store, it can also be seen as a time machine! The store has not changed much throughout their over 100 years of service; remaining in their same downtown location, doing business on their original equipment, and displaying their hats on the same wooden blocks they began with. “Abe the Hatter,” as he is known, and his wife Myrna, are third-generation owners of Paris Hatters. They believe in being hands-on at the store, personally operating it seven days a week.
Paris Hatters specializes in traditional, modern, and custom hats, ranging anywhere from $20 to $7,000 to serve a wide range of customers. Clients pick the quality, color and style (cowboy hats, fedoras, derbys or caps). Paris Hatters then takes the time to ensure that hats are fitted to match the customer’s height, shoulder width, weight and overall stature. You’ll walk out with an original look perfect for you. Their excellent cleaning, blocking (shaping), and general restoration services are always available to ensure that your look lasts a lifetime! Their expansive variety and outstanding care keeps Paris Hatters high on the list of any hat connoisseur.
Their traditional style, old-school hospitality, and genuine quality has attracted national and international attention. Countless celebrities and a couple of U.S. Presidents have dropped in to be fitted for a custom Paris Hatters hat. Some of the most iconic visitors include Dwight Yoakam, Pope John Paul II, Matt Damon, B.B. King, and Christian Louboutin! Paris Hatters has also been featured in publications of Southern Living, Texas Highways, the New York Times, and many more. They are a favorite spot of Frommers, the international travel book, and have been featured in a segment about San Antonio on the Travel Channel! Each year, they bring thousands of old hats to life by mailing them throughout the world. Making use of their inventory and sharing their custom traditions far out!
Abe and his team remain passionate, dedicated and diligent in providing the best experience for all who enter. Paris Hatters will truly never go out of style!
Penner's
Penner’s was established in 1916 by Morris Penner, a Jewish immigrant from Poland. Morris began the business as a second-hand clothing and shoe store. After 14 years, his sons Ben, Max, and Sam Penner joined him and together they transitioned the store into a first-rate men’s clothing store.
Through the 1950s, Penner’s gained notoriety for selling Stacy Adams tangerine shoes to capture the pachuco style popular in San Antonio’s westside. It was the place to buy your tapita (hat), la lisa (shirt), tramados (pants), and calcos (shoes). In 1970, Penner’s was handed onto the third generation, as Sam gave the reins to his twin sons Mickey and Mark Penner.
In January of 1978, everything changed for Penner’s. An electrical fire raced through the building and destroyed everything. Fortunately, the kind neighbors of Frost Bank let Mickey and Mark use their lobby as a temporary storefront. A year later, Penner’s opened up on Commerce street where they remain today.
1997 was the year for a new generation to step in and take over. Sam’s grandson Matthew joined his father, uncle and grandfather and opened their retail up to the internet. Penner’s began selling their famous guayaberas online! The goal was for Penner’s to become the largest supplier of authentic guayaberas, and distribute them anywhere and everywhere people needed. These guayaberas are made in Mérida, in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Ten years later, Sam’s other grandsons Mitchell and Max Penner began their journey as a Penner’s salesmen.
Now in its 104th year, Penner’s continues to preserve westside, pachuco culture by maintaining local business methods while offering their services beyond San Anto. A Legacy Business indeed!
Pioneer Flour Mills
Pioneer Flour Mills has been one of the leading suppliers of baking mixes, custom desserts, and sauces in San Antonio for nearly 170 years. The flour mill was established in 1851 by Carl Hilmar Guenther, a German immigrant, near Fredericksburg, Texas. Guenther relocated the business in 1859 to San Antonio, and established it as “Guenther’s Best.” The flour mill is part of the larger Guenther House business which features the Guenther House restaurant and museum.
The flour mill experienced significant growth throughout the rest of the 19th century, and saw a major shift in their role as a local service in the early 20th century. Following food rationing practices of World War I, the flour mill worked diligently to meet the spike in demands. This led the mill to expand their facilities into the 20-story structure that stands today—a local landmark! The flour mill again would step up during the Great Depression and World War II, tailoring their products to support government initiatives to stimulate the economy and the war effort.
The mass marketing boom of the mid century pushed the mill to produce ready-to-make baking mixes and pre-packaged products (such as breakfast cereal). The growing trend in consumerism set up the Pioneer Flour Mills as a staple in many San Antonio homes for decades to come!
Pioneer Flour Mills has made many leaps and bounds in their business since the start of the new century. They’ve expanded their products, acquired new factory locations domestically and internationally, and have begun supplying flour products for some of the world’s largest food chains! Their rich history and longtime success earned them a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
From San Antonio to the world, Pioneer Flour Mills has had one legendary run!
Roddis Lumber & Veneer Co, LP
Roddis Lumber & Veneer Company, LP was founded in 1922, originally as part of a parent company located in Marshfield, Wisconsin. In the early years, the company specialized in hardwood plywood, Douglas fir plywood, and flush wooden door distribution. Roddis eventually broke off to become an independent company, remaining in South Texas, and expanding their services to include industrial panel products, millwork, and larger selections of hardwood lumber. Roddis leadership has remained in the family, and is currently operated by their third generation!
Roddis has played a crucial role in the literal development of San Antonio, supplying the necessary materials to build a sturdy, sustainable city for nearly 100 years!. Roddis Lumber is woven into the architectural history of the city, what a legacy!
Rudy's Feed Store
Rudy’s Feed Store was established sometime in the late 1930’s or early 1940’s by Rudolph Staffel. No original documentation can be found of the original establishment date. However, the business owners do have the 1946 etched into a portion of the original flooring when an addition to the original building was completed.
For over 80 years, Rudy’s Feed Store has been one of San Antonio’s oldest full service agricultural feed and retail pet stores. Rudy’s was the place for the ranchers to pick up feed and supplies on their way to and from the Union Stock Yards, when it was up and running. The agricultural business continues to thrive with many locals raising farm animals, and their retail pet sales and service steadily grows.
Couple Fernando Morales and Mary Louise Quintero ran the business from 1967 to 1970 when they were offered the opportunity to purchase the business from the original owners in 1971. Mary Louise continued to run the business until 2004 when she retired. Rudy’s Feed Store is still family-operated by second generation Gilbert Morales and his wife Elizabeth, instilling small business family values in their customer service.
For the past 27 years, Rudy’s Feed Store has partnered with a local veterinarian, Dr. Russell Bush, to provide a low cost vaccination clinic on the premises to the community and surrounding areas every Saturday. This service is well-known and only advertised through word-of-mouth!
Rudy’s Feed Store is sought out by customers for their animal, pet, and home maintenance advice and they strive to provide the best, most affordable options. For animals and projects big and small, locals have been coming back to Rudy’s for their honesty and reliability.
Rudy’s Feed Store is definitely a San Antonio Legacy Business with their all-encompassing commitment to creating the best pet and home environment.
Sanitary Tortilla Factory
Sanitary Tortilla Manufacturing Company was first established in 1925 by Francisco Garcia, a Spanish immigrant. Francisco opened up the business during the run of the San Antonio “Chili Queens” — the semi-ambulant taco vendors that cooked chili con carne and tortillas, usually selling at the plazas of San Antonio. Francisco embarked on a controversial initiative to install the first tortilla-making machines in his factory. Initially the people of San Antonio were reluctant to accept "machine-made” tortillas. The goal was to produce tortillas, tacos, and tamales in more sanitary conditions. (Hence the name!)
With the industrialization of food across the country, San Antonians slowly began to accept the tortilla methods of Sanitary Tortillas. An emphasis on corn flour would change the tortilla industry and give Sanitary Tortillas more of an edge. Corn flour gave the tortillas a longer life, and made production cheaper. Sanitary Tortillas experienced steady growth throughout the 20th century. The business expanded and moved to their current location in 1971, just across the street from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.
The Sanitary Tortilla Company is creeping up on 100 years of service! Over the decades, they’ve maintained pure, non-artificial methods for producing some of the best tortillas in San Antonio. Eating Sanitary tortillas truly is a different experience!
Santikos Entertainment
For over 100 years, the Santikos family has produced an unparalleled theater experience. But you won’t find the true story of their work ethic within the marquees. The history of Santikos Entertainment tells a larger story of serving the San Antonio community through entertainment, service, and economic opportunities.
In the early 1900s, 19 year old Louis Santikos left his home in Athens, Greece for central Texas. Louis initially worked stocking shelves and bagging canned goods at a local grocery store. As a grocer, he noticed the lines of people waiting outside the Rex Theatre across the street and realized the business potential of the theater industry. Louis worked to save whatever he could, and in 1911 he purchased that same theater, launching a legacy that would last for generations.
Over the next few decades, Louis’ son, John L. Santikos, would expand the business into over a dozen locations. By merging leading-edge technology with a comfortable atmosphere, John established Santikos as the premiere theatrical experience in the area.
Throughout his career, John committed Santikos Entertainment to philanthropy and community service. Santikos frequently made generous donations to local organizations and developed consistent partnerships with local arts organizations and charitable groups. When John passed away, he gave the bulk of his estate to the San Antonio Area Foundation. Today, Santikos Entertainment—and its more than 1,500 employees—remains dedicated to work solely for the benefit of the San Antonio community.
Santikos has been bringing service to entertainment for over 100 years. There is nothing like that moment when the lights go down, the sound goes up, and your attention locks on the screen above—except, of course, knowing that just by being there, you’re helping to make San Antonio a better place!
Schilo's Deli
Schilo's Deli started as a saloon in the 1900s in Beeville, Texas. Fritz "Papa” Schilo moved the saloon and his family to San Antonio in 1914 and Mama Schilo started serving some of her recipes a few years later in 1917. Her timing was perfect! In 1920 prohibition hit America and all saloons abruptly closed, but Schilo’s was able to survive. When prohibition hit and the guys couldn't toast with beer any longer, root beer took its place. Schilo’s developed and became known for their original root beer recipe!
In 1942, Schilo's moved to its current location which was originally a currency exchange bank. In fact, the original bank vault is now a walk-in cooler. After three generations of Schilo's, the Lyons family purchased the establishment in 1980 and has continued the proud German tradition of hard work, good cooking, and fun. Now, over 100 years old, Schilo's is the oldest operating restaurant in San Antonio.
With an open door policy, Schilo’s ownership remains approachable and empowers their team to be the best versions of themselves. Several of Schilo’s team members are active in the community, serving on several organization boards. These include The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, The Tourism Council, The San Antonio Riverwalk Association, Centro San Antonio, Rotary Club, The Convention Visitors Bureau, and Visit San Antonio. Schilo’s has made major contributions to Habitat for Humanity, United Way and Blue Santa programs in efforts to [mitigate] poverty and provide community service in San Antonio.
Schilo’s ownership understands the importance of being hands on and leading the next generation to carry the torch while staying true to their traditions and offer an authentic experience. Mr. Bill Lyons, third generation owner and President, has been responsible for daily operations, and is currently overseeing the financial operations. Mr. Lyons has transitioned the family business to the fourth generation with Mrs. Elizabeth Lyons Houston, Bill’s daughter, and Ms. Elaine Olivier, Bill’s niece. Through this fourth generation, Schilo's developed their first website, launching the family business into the digital age. Elaine and Elizabeth revamped the menu design and updated offerings, while maintaining the look and feel of the restaurant. Schilo’s is working to appeal to new (younger) customers with healthier options and increased their presence on social media. Through these digital avenues, Schilo’s has found new, innovative ways to emphasize quality and customer service.
Schilo's celebrated its 100th birthday in 2017. If its vintage tile floor, wooden booths and tin ceiling could talk, they wouldn’t just tell the story of two German American families who have owned and operated it; they’d also tell the stories of all the families from around the world who have visited Schilo's for generations.
Steves & Sons Inc
Some people pioneer a business, and some people are actual pioneers; Edward Steves is both! Edward Steves established a lumber business in San Antonio, Texas in 1866. Steve & Sons witnessed and aided in the economic and physical growth of San Antonio through lumber. Steve & Sons has become one of the most well-known lumber companies in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, as did Edward Steves’ reputation for hard work and dedication.
Building the business with his sons Edward Jr., Albert and Ernest, Edward Sr. envisioned his business to take care of the future generations of his family. His approach to the business established one of the key company philosophies: supply what’s needed today, stay ahead, and be ready to supply what’s needed tomorrow.
By 1879, Steves stocked an average of three million board feet of lumber, serving a rapidly developing frontier. In the 1890’s, with frame buildings and homes becoming more common, Steves expanded to supply doors, window and stair components. To keep distribution costs low and their products affordable, a millwork plant was established in 1904 and renamed in 1912 to Steves Sash & Door Company. By 1916, Steves Sash & Door Company was the largest millwork operation in the southwest.
During World War I, the millwork operation shifted production to aircraft propellers for the newly established Army Air Corp. Albert Steves was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the U.S. War Department. Operations were again converted to support the war effort during World War II, manufacturing joinery for Liberty ships. Albert Steves’ three sons enlisted in the military service and Albert, again, did what he could to help the country get restarted in gratitude for his sons’ safe return. Albert Steves was honored for a second time by the Maritime Commission, receiving the maximum 5-Star “M” Award for Excellence.
After the wars, Steves’ returned their attention to building quality products for homes, with an emphasis on doors. Steves leadership recognized the shift towards beauty, art and color as the country evolved from a land of pioneers to the growing culture of home ownership. New lines and styles of doors were manufactured, and between 1950 and 1970. The company officially changed their name to Steves & Sons and produced more than one million doors to serve a variety of home styles, needs, and décor. To reach new markets while continuing to deliver unmatched quality at an outstanding value, Steves & Sons opened two additional plants in Lebanon, Tennessee (1971) and Richmond, Virginia (1983).
With continued emphasis on quality materials, new technology and efficient distribution, Steves & Sons continues to build their reputation amongst builders and homeowners across the country. Edward Steves founded his company on the principles of conserving resources and environmental responsibility, while providing quality goods and service. That hallmark remains today in every item Steves and Sons manufacturers. From incorporating recycled materials, to making products that can conceivably last as long as the application, the Steves family is proud to build on the tradition of environmental respect and responsibility.
For over 140 years, (five generations later!) the Steves family has always maintained their commitment to quality, craftsmanship and style. And Steves & Sons will continue to offer quality and service at a fair price for generations to come.
Sutton-Sutton & Woodard's Mortuary
Sutton & Sutton’s Mortuary was founded in 1936 by Samuel and Lillian Sutton on San Antonio’s East Side. Samuel and Lillian became educators and successful entrepreneurs, owning several businesses aside from the mortuary. They were known for their civil rights activism and deeply involved in the advancement of people in their community. The Suttons maintained this vision in their household with their 9 children, encouraging them to excel in various fields and obtain college and postgraduate degrees.
In 1938, two of their sons, G.J. Sutton and Samuel Sutton, took over the family’s funeral business. While operating the business G.J. became the first black elected official of Bexar County. He was a member of the board of trustees for the San Antonio Union Junior College district. He championed to increase the resources devoted to St. Philip’s College, a campus serving mostly Blacks and Hispanics, and was committed to effecting change in the city’s government in pursuit of racial equality.
In 1958 G.J. married Lou Nelle Sutton and they ran the mortuary together. After her husband’s death, Lou Nelle was elected as the district’s State Representative, filling her husband’s prior seat in the legislature.
Sutton & Sutton has been in operation for over 60 years as the oldest Black-owned mortuary in San Antonio. As the city has seen many changes and growth, the mortuary remains as an institution on the East Side and continues to support the needs of the community. Sutton & Sutton’s Mortuary is so deeply rooted in the history of Civil Rights in San Antonio. The Sutton family maintains the tradition of serving with dignity, distinction and dependability throughout their business endeavors and within the community. Their historical impact on combating inequality and this commitment to public service proves that they are truly legendary!
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186
650 E. White Website Facebook
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186 opened the doors in April 1973. The Post was founded and chartered on April 8, 1957 by 67 original members who were veterans of World War II and the Korean War. Today, the Post is made up of 600 members sho served throughout various eras of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The VFW Post is a non-profit organization that is chartered to serve all veterans, their families, and the community. The members continue serving the community through many activities here in the Historical Mission San Jose Neighborhood. These activities include political rallies, fundraisers, small business outreach, church events, food drives, scholarship programs, veteran’s assistance programs, support of youth athletic programs in conjunction with the nearby YMCA, presenting patriotic displays and teaching civic lessons at the Mission Library, and memorial services. The Post also supports Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) at Southside and Burbank High School, as well as many area middle and elementary schools teaching civics and flag etiquette.
Most outstanding is their Veteran outreach programs. The VFW assists all veterans in need of filing, tracking, and advocating VA claims. Providing transportation, funding, and assisting in payments for utilities to veterans on fixed incomes.
VFW Post 9186 provides a safe and affordable environment for local veterans. The VFW 9186 never skips an opportunity to raise awareness of veterans’ needs, recognizing their unparalleled sacrifices. VFW Post 9186 runs on service, camaraderie, and acceptance that warms the hearts of all who enter.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9186 opened the doors in April 1973. The Post was founded and chartered on April 8, 1957 by 67 original members who were veterans of World War II and the Korean War. Today, the Post is made up of 600 members sho served throughout various eras of the 20th and 21st centuries.
The VFW Post is a non-profit organization that is chartered to serve all veterans, their families, and the community. The members continue serving the community through many activities here in the Historical Mission San Jose Neighborhood. These activities include political rallies, fundraisers, small business outreach, church events, food drives, scholarship programs, veteran’s assistance programs, support of youth athletic programs in conjunction with the nearby YMCA, presenting patriotic displays and teaching civic lessons at the Mission Library, and memorial services. The Post also supports Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) at Southside and Burbank High School, as well as many area middle and elementary schools teaching civics and flag etiquette.
Most outstanding is their Veteran outreach programs. The VFW assists all veterans in need of filing, tracking, and advocating VA claims. Providing transportation, funding, and assisting in payments for utilities to veterans on fixed incomes.
VFW Post 9186 provides a safe and affordable environment for local veterans. The VFW 9186 never skips an opportunity to raise awareness of veterans’ needs, recognizing their unparalleled sacrifices. VFW Post 9186 runs on service, camaraderie, and acceptance that warms the hearts of all who enter.
El Paraiso Ice Cream
El Paraiso Ice Cream is the original paleta company in San Antonio Texas. Established in 1984, El Paraiso Ice Cream has dedicated themselves to create delicious ice cream and fruit bars that satisfy the bellies of the surrounding community.
Paletas are a frozen ice cream bars, usually fruit based, and perfect for the hot climate of San Antonio! El Paraiso’s original homemade recipes were perfected in Chicago, Illinois ranging from most popular to the most unique. These paletas hold the American standards while staying true to their roots. Their flavors are influenced by the culture of Guadalajara, Zacatecas, and Aguascalientes, Mexico. Paraiso paletas are surprisingly rather healthy! El Paraiso relies on the freshest produce on the market. Their ice cream and fruit bars from the most simple and natural ingredients.
El Paraiso brings more than sweet treats to the community, they have played a significant role in stimulating other local businesses. Their paletas and ice cream can be found in several local Mexican restaurants or food markets, and El Paraiso employs numerous paleteros to serve various neighborhoods.
El Paraiso is more than just dessert. This Legacy Business represents one of the many facets of Mexican-American culture in San Antonio. One ice cream can take us back to our childhood, and take some back to their home towns.
El Paraiso Ice Cream
El Paraiso Ice Cream is the original paleta company in San Antonio Texas. Established in 1984, El Paraiso Ice Cream has dedicated themselves to create delicious ice cream and fruit bars that satisfy the bellies of the surrounding community.
Paletas are a frozen ice cream bars, usually fruit based, and perfect for the hot climate of San Antonio! El Paraiso’s original homemade recipes were perfected in Chicago, Illinois ranging from most popular to the most unique. These paletas hold the American standards while staying true to their roots. Their flavors are influenced by the culture of Guadalajara, Zacatecas, and Aguascalientes, Mexico. Paraiso paletas are surprisingly rather healthy! El Paraiso relies on the freshest produce on the market. Their ice cream and fruit bars from the most simple and natural ingredients.
El Paraiso brings more than sweet treats to the community, they have played a significant role in stimulating other local businesses. Their paletas and ice cream can be found in several local Mexican restaurants or food markets, and El Paraiso employs numerous paleteros to serve various neighborhoods.
El Paraiso is more than just dessert. This Legacy Business represents one of the many facets of Mexican-American culture in San Antonio. One ice cream can take us back to our childhood, and take some back to their home towns.
The Witte Museum
The Witte Museum is one of the earliest public institutions in San Antonio. Opening on October 8, 1926, the Witte Museum quickly became a gathering place for artists, researchers, scholars, and the growing San Antonio community.
Throughout the 20th century, the Witte Museum was known for its attention to southwest pioneer culture, dedicated their early research to the Texas plains regions. Throughout the mid-century, the Witte expanded its physical reach and archival content, focusing on the history of Texas beyond Independence. It is during this era that the Witte curated some of their most important exhibits, which really set the museum apart as a collector of a wide array of Texas culture. Throughout the rest of the century, the Witte Museum began to partner with several museums outside San Antonio to bring in a rotating series of diverse exhibitions. It is also during this time that the Witte Museum transforms themselves into a forum for education and community outreach, making connections with surrounding public school and organizations.
Today, the staff at the Witte Museum is even more dedicating in crafting public-centered initiatives, giving voice to the diverse culture of Texas. The Witte Museum has become a leader in celebrating the multi-cultural landscape of the city and state!
The Witte Museum
The Witte Museum is one of the earliest public institutions in San Antonio. Opening on October 8, 1926, the Witte Museum quickly became a gathering place for artists, researchers, scholars, and the growing San Antonio community.
Throughout the 20th century, the Witte Museum was known for its attention to southwest pioneer culture, dedicated their early research to the Texas plains regions. Throughout the mid-century, the Witte expanded its physical reach and archival content, focusing on the history of Texas beyond Independence. It is during this era that the Witte curated some of their most important exhibits, which really set the museum apart as a collector of a wide array of Texas culture. Throughout the rest of the century, the Witte Museum began to partner with several museums outside San Antonio to bring in a rotating series of diverse exhibitions. It is also during this time that the Witte Museum transforms themselves into a forum for education and community outreach, making connections with surrounding public school and organizations.
Today, the staff at the Witte Museum is even more dedicating in crafting public-centered initiatives, giving voice to the diverse culture of Texas. The Witte Museum has become a leader in celebrating the multi-cultural landscape of the city and state!
Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine
Blanca Aldaco opened Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine in 1989, originally located on Commerce Street near downtown San Antonio. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Blanca was well experienced in crafting authentic Mexican cuisine. Her contributions have elevated the taste and style of the city’s culinary culture and have helped to bring national recognition to San Antonio as the undisputed capital of Mexican food in Texas.
The restaurant quickly grew to be a local favorite and in 1999, Aldaco’s moved to their current, much larger location at the historic Sunset Station. As Aldaco’s popularity continues to grow, maintaining the perfect between tradition and innovation is a constant goal. Aldaco’s is the perfect place for San Antonians to savor south Texas traditions they grew up with, but does not shy away from experimenting with new flavors and modern techniques. From traditional chicken enchiladas to a one of kind Avocado Margarita, Aldaco’s takes your tastebuds on a trip. Aldaco’s Restaurant also offers their services to hosting private events and the occassional cooking class, providing creative ways to share their roots to the curious newbie and those longing for a taste of home.
In March 2008, Aldaco’s in the Stone Oak area opened it’s doors, fulfilling a dream of operating a restaurant in the north side of San Antonio. Now Adalco’s can reach communities from different corners of the city, inviting diverse groups to enjoy genuine and evolving Mexican culture through food!
Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine
Blanca Aldaco opened Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine in 1989, originally located on Commerce Street near downtown San Antonio. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Blanca was well experienced in crafting authentic Mexican cuisine. Her contributions have elevated the taste and style of the city’s culinary culture and have helped to bring national recognition to San Antonio as the undisputed capital of Mexican food in Texas.
The restaurant quickly grew to be a local favorite and in 1999, Aldaco’s moved to their current, much larger location at the historic Sunset Station. As Aldaco’s popularity continues to grow, maintaining the perfect between tradition and innovation is a constant goal. Aldaco’s is the perfect place for San Antonians to savor south Texas traditions they grew up with, but does not shy away from experimenting with new flavors and modern techniques. From traditional chicken enchiladas to a one of kind Avocado Margarita, Aldaco’s takes your tastebuds on a trip. Aldaco’s Restaurant also offers their services to hosting private events and the occassional cooking class, providing creative ways to share their roots to the curious newbie and those longing for a taste of home.
In March 2008, Aldaco’s in the Stone Oak area opened it’s doors, fulfilling a dream of operating a restaurant in the north side of San Antonio. Now Adalco’s can reach communities from different corners of the city, inviting diverse groups to enjoy genuine and evolving Mexican culture through food!
Amols' Fiesta Party Store
Amols has been dressing up San Antonio parties for over 70 years! Amols supplies any and all items necessary to put on Fiesta parties, PTA carnivals, proms, festivals, or any other type celebration. Novelty buttons, joke tricks, ribbons and sashes--everything needed for fun can be found here. This business is like no other.
“You have to be crazy to be in it,” founder Julian Amols one said. Coming of age during the Great Depression, Julian Amols realized that even in the darkest of economic times, families would find ways to celebrate important holidays and milestones in whatever way they could. While considering what he wanted to do with his life, he knew he wanted to work in some form of the entertainment or amusement industry to help put smiles on peoples’ faces.
Amols dropped out of medical school and joined a vaudeville show in his hometown of Baltimore. Performing as a vaudeville "hoofer" and stand-up comic honed his fondness for having a good time which he brought to San Antonio, opening Amols Novelty Co in 1949 on North Saint Mary’s Street. The business quickly outgrew the little shop moving twice more during the next ten years before settling on South Flores Street, where the store remained for 55 years. In 2018, needing even more space, Amols’relocated to their current spot on the corner of Fredericksburg Road and Culebra Road in the Five Points neighborhood of San Antonio.
Amols' supports other small businesses and skilled artisans by sourcing unique products from Mexico and Latin America, ensuring customers purchase the most authentic items to plan their cultural events—most importantly, Fiesta! Other party supplies includes everything from Día de los Muertos, to New Year’s Eve, and the Fourth of July. With thousands of items to choose from, Amols’ is the spot to plan your perfect event of any size and occasion.
For over 70 years, Amols has remained family-owned and operated with the third generation of Amols carrying on Julian’s legacy today. The Amols family adheres to the belief that even the simplest celebrations can make the best memories, building long-lasting relationships and feeding the San Antonio party spirit!
Amols' Specialty Inc.
Amols' Specialty Inc. is a party supplies and decor company based in San Antonio, Texas specializing in authentic party supplies for all occasions. Established during the Great Depression, Julian Amols realized that even in the darkest of economic times, families would find ways to celebrate important holidays and milestones in whatever way they could. While considering what he wanted to do with his life, he knew he wanted to work in some form of the entertainment or amusement industry to help put smiles on peoples’ faces.
In 1949 Amols opened the first location on North Saint Mary’s Street. He quickly outgrew the little shop moving twice more during the next ten years before settling on South Flores Street, where we remained for 55 years. In 2018, needing even more space, Amols’relocated to their current spot on the corner of Fredericksburg Road and Culebra Road in the Five Points neighborhood of San Antonio.
Amols' support other small businesses and skilled artisans by sourcing many of our unique products from Mexico and Latin America, ensuring customers purchase the most authentic [supplies] to plan their cultural events—most importantly, Fiesta! Other party supplies includes everything from Día de los Muertos, to New Year’s Eve, and the Fourth of July. With thousands of items to choose from, Amols’ is the spot to plan your perfect event of any size and occasion.
For over 70 years, Amols has remained family-owned and operated with the third generation of Amols carrying on Julian’s legacy today. The Amols family adheres to the belief that even the simplest celebrations can make the best memories, building long-lasting relationships and feeding the San Antonio party spirit!
Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers
Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers is a locally owned and operated flower shop proudly serving the San Antonio area for over 46 years. Arthur Pfeil have deep roots in the San Antonio community and prides themselves on being the florist of choice for many of the area's finest businesses, universities and families.
The owner, Arthur Pfeil, is a certified Texas Master Florist and graduate of Texas A&M University with both bachelors and masters degrees in floriculture. Mr. Pfeil is in the shop every day to oversee the work of his handpicked staff. Arthur Pfeil Flowers carries a large selection of cut flowers and plants and are customized to meet any unique need. With a knowledgeable staff and delicate attention to detail, Arthur Pfeil Flowers provides an impeccable service that you can’t easily find at the average chain flower shop, providing beautiful arrangements to compliment or lighten up any occasion. From celebratory events to more somber moments, San Antonians can trust that orders are made and delivered with heartfelt compassion.
Arthur Pfeil is also committed to local service and philanthropy, assuring that customer’s money will be go back into the community they love and serve. We love seeing local businesses supporting each other!
Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers
Arthur Pfeil Smart Flowers is a locally owned and operated flower shop proudly serving the San Antonio area for over 46 years. Arthur Pfeil have deep roots in the San Antonio community and prides themselves on being the florist of choice for many of the area's finest businesses, universities and families.
The owner, Arthur Pfeil, is a certified Texas Master Florist and graduate of Texas A&M University with both bachelors and masters degrees in floriculture. Mr. Pfeil is in the shop every day to oversee the work of his handpicked staff. Arthur Pfeil Flowers carries a large selection of cut flowers and plants and are customized to meet any unique need. With a knowledgeable staff and delicate attention to detail, Arthur Pfeil Flowers provides an impeccable service that you can’t easily find at the average chain flower shop, providing beautiful arrangements to compliment or lighten up any occasion. From celebratory events to more somber moments, San Antonians can trust that orders are made and delivered with heartfelt compassion.
Arthur Pfeil is also committed to local service and philanthropy, assuring that customer’s money will be go back into the community they love and serve. We love seeing local businesses supporting each other!
B&B Smokehouse
In September of 1984, brothers Bruce and Bob Finely opened B&B Smokehouse on the south side of San Antonio. The legacy of B&B Smokehouse dates back long before Bruce and Bob established their business. The Finely brothers grew up watching, learning, and working alongside their father Harold who founded Hal's Drive-In and Bar-B-Que in 1958. Barbecue has been a Finely family tradition for over 50 years!
With decades of experience and knowledge, the Finely family has made their mark in Texas barbecue. It's their unique, homestyle flavors and methods at B&B is what has kept generations of San Antonians coming back. Their handcrafted recipes are family traditions that have proven to withstand a growing city and changing times. Older customer grew up with classic flavors of Hal’s restaurant and can now bring their families to B&B—how full circle!
Although maintaining traditions is important to the Finely’s, they are also aware of the need to expand their options and have a little fun. B&B is the only place where you can find classic items like B&B’s beef ribs next to a brisket grilled cheese sandwich and a brisket burger. What a range! Regardless of what you get, everything on the B&B menu is a memorable experience. B&B also offers a number of sides and kids options to truly serve various appetites . This dedication to services has diversified their customer base, bringing together all walks of life under one roof create their own barbecue traditions!
B&B Smokehouse
In September of 1984, brothers Bruce and Bob Finely opened B&B Smokehouse on the south side of San Antonio. The legacy of B&B Smokehouse dates back long before Bruce and Bob established their business. The Finely brothers grew up watching, learning, and working alongside their father Harold who founded Hal's Drive-In and Bar-B-Que in 1958. Barbecue has been a Finely family tradition for over 50 years!
With decades of experience and knowledge, the Finely family has made their mark in Texas barbecue. It's their unique, homestyle flavors and methods at B&B is what has kept generations of San Antonians coming back. Their handcrafted recipes are family traditions that have proven to withstand a growing city and changing times. Older customer grew up with classic flavors of Hal’s restaurant and can now bring their families to B&B—how full circle!
Although maintaining traditions is important to the Finely’s, they are also aware of the need to expand their options and have a little fun. B&B is the only place where you can find classic items like B&B’s beef ribs next to a brisket grilled cheese sandwich and a brisket burger. What a range! Regardless of what you get, everything on the B&B menu is a memorable experience. B&B also offers a number of sides and kids options to truly serve various appetites . This dedication to services has diversified their customer base, bringing together all walks of life under one roof create their own barbecue traditions!
Bombay Bicycle Club
3506 N. St. Mary’s Ave. Website Facebook Instargram
The Bombay Bicycle Club is a neighborhood bar nestled in between where the Brackenridge, Monte Vista, and Olmos Park communities meet. Founded in 1973, the walls of Bombay Bicycle Club holds the turbulent history of alcohol sales in San Antonio!
The building of the Bombay Bicycle Club dates back to the 1880s and has always functioned as a bar. From the Prohibition Era to the mid 20th century, a series of businesses flowed in and out of the physical structure unable to really make use of the classic bar décor. In the 1970s, Texas liquor laws changed, allowing for the on-premise selling of alcohol. This re-opened the opportunity for a joint like the Bombay Bicycle Club to take off and cater to a developing area.
When the owner of Bombay first purchased the building, he took advantage of the original interior architecture and refurbished the built in furniture, giving the place a throwback kind of style too rare to find anywhere else in San Antonio. Today, Bombay maintains that old school style, and compliments this atmosphere with nostalgic drinks. In 2020, in response to the COVID-19 crisis throughout San Antonio, the Bombay Bicycle Club reconstructed their building to include outdoor dining. Now you can compliment your classic drinks with some classic eats! Despite the ever changing community, businesses trends, and times, the Bombay Bicycle Club has always embraced new ideas and has been a place for all these changes to come together and enjoy a drink!
Bombay Bicycle Club
3506 N. St. Mary’s Ave. Website Facebook Instargram
The Bombay Bicycle Club is a neighborhood bar nestled in between where the Brackenridge, Monte Vista, and Olmos Park communities meet. Founded in 1973, the walls of Bombay Bicycle Club holds the turbulent history of alcohol sales in San Antonio!
The building of the Bombay Bicycle Club dates back to the 1880s and has always functioned as a bar. From the Prohibition Era to the mid 20th century, a series of businesses flowed in and out of the physical structure unable to really make use of the classic bar décor. In the 1970s, Texas liquor laws changed, allowing for the on-premise selling of alcohol. This re-opened the opportunity for a joint like the Bombay Bicycle Club to take off and cater to a developing area.
When the owner of Bombay first purchased the building, he took advantage of the original interior architecture and refurbished the built in furniture, giving the place a throwback kind of style too rare to find anywhere else in San Antonio. Today, Bombay maintains that old school style, and compliments this atmosphere with nostalgic drinks. In 2020, in response to the COVID-19 crisis throughout San Antonio, the Bombay Bicycle Club reconstructed their building to include outdoor dining. Now you can compliment your classic drinks with some classic eats! Despite the ever changing community, businesses trends, and times, the Bombay Bicycle Club has always embraced new ideas and has been a place for all these changes to come together and enjoy a drink!
Cardona Welding
1823 South Brazos St. Facebook
Cardona Welding has been in business for nearly 100 years, passing through 4 generations of Cardona. In the early 20th century, Guadalupe Cardona moved from Mexico to the United States and brought his trade of blacksmithing. He settled in San Antonio, on the edge of the city near the old stock yards. He chose this spot because he knew wagons would be traveling by with their livestock and if they needed repairs he could be there to offer his services.
Through the years Cardona Welding has very well kept up with changing times and changing technology. As wagons became cars and trucks, Cardona transitioned into a welding shop and exhaust center. Cardona Welding moved three times to accommodate the transition from a blacksmith shop to a welding repair shop. The first time to accommodate to the city’s flood control efforts, and the second time in 1963 under Martin Cardona to 1813 South Brazos to accommodate for an expanding business. The business would continue to grow under the next generation Richard and Johnny Cardona. They are now currently located at 1823 South Brazos St. With extra room to operate as a full exhaust and welding repair shop and work on many type of jobs. From specialty welding to everyday repairs, with almost a century of experience no job is too complicated for the Cardona’s to figure out.
Cardona Welding has held true to the customer values they were founded on: listening to their customers and putting their needs first. It is this commitment that keeps their business growing as everyone who finishes a project with Cardona goes on to share the story of impeccable service and quality. Cardona Welding has done work and repairs for many businesses in San Antonio from the river walk to the theme parks across the city. Cardona carries out all of their projects with pride and every detail is important. To this day customers travel from the surrounding small towns, some traveling over 100 miles, to work with Cardona Welding because they know they are going to get the job done right. What also makes Cardona Welding stand out is that every employee must know all aspects of the job. Most welding businesses have different people doing a different part of the project. Here, each person takes on a project and does every aspect of it to completion making Cardona employees highly skilled and knowledgeable.
The eldest Cardona generation is currently working on training the youngest generation to eventually take their turn in running the family business. This will be the fifth generation to carry on the legacy
Cardona Welding png
1823 South Brazos St. Facebook
Cardona Welding has been in business for nearly 100 years, passing through 4 generations of Cardona. In the early 20th century, Guadalupe Cardona moved from Mexico to the United States and brought his trade of blacksmithing. He settled in San Antonio, on the edge of the city near the old stock yards. He chose this spot because he knew wagons would be traveling by with their livestock and if they needed repairs he could be there to offer his services.
Through the years Cardona Welding has very well kept up with changing times and changing technology. As wagons became cars and trucks, Cardona transitioned into a welding shop and exhaust center. Cardona Welding moved three times to accommodate the transition from a blacksmith shop to a welding repair shop. The first time to accommodate to the city’s flood control efforts, and the second time in 1963 under Martin Cardona to 1813 South Brazos to accommodate for an expanding business. The business would continue to grow under the next generation Richard and Johnny Cardona. They are now currently located at 1823 South Brazos St. With extra room to operate as a full exhaust and welding repair shop and work on many type of jobs. From specialty welding to everyday repairs, with almost a century of experience no job is too complicated for the Cardona’s to figure out.
Cardona Welding has held true to the customer values they were founded on: listening to their customers and putting their needs first. It is this commitment that keeps their business growing as everyone who finishes a project with Cardona goes on to share the story of impeccable service and quality. Cardona Welding has done work and repairs for many businesses in San Antonio from the river walk to the theme parks across the city. Cardona carries out all of their projects with pride and every detail is important. To this day customers travel from the surrounding small towns, some traveling over 100 miles, to work with Cardona Welding because they know they are going to get the job done right. What also makes Cardona Welding stand out is that every employee must know all aspects of the job. Most welding businesses have different people doing a different part of the project. Here, each person takes on a project and does every aspect of it to completion making Cardona employees highly skilled and knowledgeable.
The eldest Cardona generation is currently working on training the youngest generation to eventually take their turn in running the family business. This will be the fifth generation to carry on the legacy
Cavallini Glass
4719 Blanco Rd. Website
The Cavallini Glass Company is the oldest family owned and operated stained glass studio in San Antonio. Manilo D. Cavallini, an Italian immigrant opened Cavallini Glass Co. in 1953 just four years after arriving to the United States. The Cavallini family has since kept this tradition and is now in the 3rd generation of business owners.
Originally, Cavallini Glass exclusively offered stained glass mosaics. As their business and the demand for professional crafts grew throughout San Antonio, Cavallini expanded to offer design, fabrication, and installation services for churches and other businesses. Today their studio specializes in supplying and installing protective glazing and protective window coverings, and completing historic restoration of stained glass. Despite their success and immense growth, Cavallini Glass has not forgotten about local stained glass hobbyist and business and offers accessible wholesale products.
Today, Cavallini Glass' services stretch beyond San Antonio, providing stained glass services across in Austin, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, El Paso, McAllen, Corpus Christi, and the surrounding San Antonio areas. But Cavallini has not stopped there! Cavallini Glass Co. Has also provided services in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, & Arkansas. So it’s not that hard to stumble upon their beautiful artwork! With over 65 years of experience, the Cavallini Co. has proven to be a reliable business for the most delicate work.
Cavalinni 1
4719 Blanco Rd. Website
The Cavallini Glass Company is the oldest family owned and operated stained glass studio in San Antonio. Manilo D. Cavallini, an Italian immigrant opened Cavallini Glass Co. in 1953 just four years after arriving to the United States. The Cavallini family has since kept this tradition and is now in the 3rd generation of business owners.
Originally, Cavallini Glass exclusively offered stained glass mosaics. As their business and the demand for professional crafts grew throughout San Antonio, Cavallini expanded to offer design, fabrication, and installation services for churches and other businesses. Today their studio specializes in supplying and installing protective glazing and protective window coverings, and completing historic restoration of stained glass. Despite their success and immense growth, Cavallini Glass has not forgotten about local stained glass hobbyist and business and offers accessible wholesale products.
Today, Cavallini Glass' services stretch beyond San Antonio, providing stained glass services across in Austin, Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, El Paso, McAllen, Corpus Christi, and the surrounding San Antonio areas. But Cavallini has not stopped there! Cavallini Glass Co. Has also provided services in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, & Arkansas. So it’s not that hard to stumble upon their beautiful artwork! With over 65 years of experience, the Cavallini Co. has proven to be a reliable business for the most delicate work.
Cinderella Bakery
Cinderella Bakery has been a Westside neighborhood staple since 1960. Carrying traditional Mexican baking methods across the border and across generations, Cinderella Bakery has a special way of helping some San Antonians connect to their roots.
Cinderella Bakery was established on the idea of preserving familial and cultural traditions through food. Owner Enrique Correa opens up everyday at the crack of dawn ready to greet his fellow Mexican American community members. Using only the best ingredients that have been past down from his grandparents, Mr. Correa loves being able to share a piece of his home, and recreate a home for others. It’s his love for his culture that has resonated with the San Antonio community throughout more than 50 years. Longtime customers regard Mr. Correa as family and are always eager to share fond memories of going to Cinderella Bakery as kids. Now they get to bring their kids and carry on this tradition!
In recent years, the Correa family has expanded their menu to include a wide range of San Antonio’s favorite foods, such as American pastries and savory Mexican classics. From cupcakes, muffins, biscuits, and a variety of donuts, to homemade tamales and barbacoa. Cinderella Bakery doesn’t just speak to your tastebuds, but can unlock your memories and warm your heart.
Cinderella Bakery
Cinderella Bakery has been a Westside neighborhood staple since 1960. Carrying traditional Mexican baking methods across the border and across generations, Cinderella Bakery has a special way of helping some San Antonians connect to their roots.
Cinderella Bakery was established on the idea of preserving familial and cultural traditions through food. Owner Enrique Correa opens up everyday at the crack of dawn ready to greet his fellow Mexican American community members. Using only the best ingredients that have been past down from his grandparents, Mr. Correa loves being able to share a piece of his home, and recreate a home for others. It’s his love for his culture that has resonated with the San Antonio community throughout more than 50 years. Longtime customers regard Mr. Correa as family and are always eager to share fond memories of going to Cinderella Bakery as kids. Now they get to bring their kids and carry on this tradition!
In recent years, the Correa family has expanded their menu to include a wide range of San Antonio’s favorite foods, such as American pastries and savory Mexican classics. From cupcakes, muffins, biscuits, and a variety of donuts, to homemade tamales and barbacoa. Cinderella Bakery doesn’t just speak to your tastebuds, but can unlock your memories and warm your heart.
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home is family owned and operated business since 1990. Originally established in Gonzales, Texas by Pastor Danny W. Brooks Sr, the business expanded in 1995 and Mr. Brooks took the opportunity to move into a larger market in San Antonio. With a long history of preserving family traditions, D.W. Brooks truly has become a staple in their community.
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home is located on San Antonio’s Eastside and has cared for families of many different backgrounds. Each family is guaranteed the same professional, dedicated, and compassionate service to meet whatever needs they may have. In sensitive times, it’s really special to be able to count on a business to deliver with honesty and provide some comfort.
In 2014, Danny Brooks Sr. transferred ownership of the business to his oldest son Danny Brooks Jr. With the help of Danzel, his younger brother, Danny Jr. has led the way to remodeling the current funeral home and planning a second location on the Northeast side of the city. Danny and Danzel will extend their original goal, to offer the finest and the most complete selection of traditional services and cremation to new communities. The Brooks family will always remain dedicated to serve whoever may walk through the door as best as they can.
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home is family owned and operated business since 1990. Originally established in Gonzales, Texas by Pastor Danny W. Brooks Sr, the business expanded in 1995 and Mr. Brooks took the opportunity to move into a larger market in San Antonio. With a long history of preserving family traditions, D.W. Brooks truly has become a staple in their community.
D.W. Brooks Funeral Home is located on San Antonio’s Eastside and has cared for families of many different backgrounds. Each family is guaranteed the same professional, dedicated, and compassionate service to meet whatever needs they may have. In sensitive times, it’s really special to be able to count on a business to deliver with honesty and provide some comfort.
In 2014, Danny Brooks Sr. transferred ownership of the business to his oldest son Danny Brooks Jr. With the help of Danzel, his younger brother, Danny Jr. has led the way to remodeling the current funeral home and planning a second location on the Northeast side of the city. Danny and Danzel will extend their original goal, to offer the finest and the most complete selection of traditional services and cremation to new communities. The Brooks family will always remain dedicated to serve whoever may walk through the door as best as they can.
Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Tavern is a cool, mysterious hangout serving good old fashioned cold beer, stylish cocktails, and first-rate food. Aside from the unique atmosphere, the Esquire also holds unique history as the bar was established in 1933 to celebrate the end of Prohibition in the United States.
Throughout its nearly 100 years in business, the Esquire Tavern has been able to maintain their reputation by balancing tradition with modern innovation. While staying true to their signature style, the Esquire is not afraid to dip their toes in new trends or put their spin on something simple. Each drink is meant to compliment the look and feel of the bar, making you feel like you’re in a completely different time and space. The Esquire doesn’t stop at their drinks, the food they offer is created to perfectly compliment the tastes of their drinks, giving customers a full-circle experience. It is their careful approach that makes the Esquire Tavern somewhat of a treasure in San Antonio, having been featured in a number of local San Antonio publications. The Esquire’s unique qualities has also attracted attention from across the state and country as the bar has been featured in articles by the New York Times and Bravo TV.
The interior design and architecture of the Esquire maintains the same 1930s style, with dark colors, dramatic lighting, and round furniture. Wining and dining at the Esquire is like stepping back in time. A familiar experience that somehow feels so new every time, the Esquire is guaranteed to be memorable!
Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Tavern is a cool, mysterious hangout serving good old fashioned cold beer, stylish cocktails, and first-rate food. Aside from the unique atmosphere, the Esquire also holds unique history as the bar was established in 1933 to celebrate the end of Prohibition in the United States.
Throughout its nearly 100 years in business, the Esquire Tavern has been able to maintain their reputation by balancing tradition with modern innovation. While staying true to their signature style, the Esquire is not afraid to dip their toes in new trends or put their spin on something simple. Each drink is meant to compliment the look and feel of the bar, making you feel like you’re in a completely different time and space. The Esquire doesn’t stop at their drinks, the food they offer is created to perfectly compliment the tastes of their drinks, giving customers a full-circle experience. It is their careful approach that makes the Esquire Tavern somewhat of a treasure in San Antonio, having been featured in a number of local San Antonio publications. The Esquire’s unique qualities has also attracted attention from across the state and country as the bar has been featured in articles by the New York Times and Bravo TV.
The interior design and architecture of the Esquire maintains the same 1930s style, with dark colors, dramatic lighting, and round furniture. Wining and dining at the Esquire is like stepping back in time. A familiar experience that somehow feels so new every time, the Esquire is guaranteed to be memorable!
Fig Tree Restaurant
The Fig Tree Restaurant is one of the most iconic spots along the River Walk to stop, eat, and enjoy the beautiful San Antonio scenery. A romantic nouveau restaurant, the Fig Tree offers a variety of modern, sleek, yet reasonable menu items that makes the simplest night out feel like an exclusive adventure.
The Fig Tree Restaurant opened its doors in 1971 and is one of the very few restaurants in San Antonio that carries on traditional European culinary practices. Everything from their food to the waiters dressed in high-end suits, the Fig Tree takes you out of time and space. The Fig Tree Restaurant holds some interesting history within its walls, as occupies the historic Dashiell House inside the historic arts village of La Villita. The house was built around 1850 by Major Jeremiah Dashiell and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Despite their deep roots in history and tradition, the Fig Tree Restaurant has always kept an eye out for innovation. While being in the center of downtown, the Fig Tree has witnessed an ever-changing city and tourism industry. Over the years, the restaurant avidly works to keep up with changing needs and trends in order to broaden their costumer base and better serve the community. But the authentic style of the Fig Tree Restaurant never falters and that’s really what makes this spot a gem in San Antonio culinary history and culture.
Fig Tree Restaurant
The Fig Tree Restaurant is one of the most iconic spots along the River Walk to stop, eat, and enjoy the beautiful San Antonio scenery. A romantic nouveau restaurant, the Fig Tree offers a variety of modern, sleek, yet reasonable menu items that makes the simplest night out feel like an exclusive adventure.
The Fig Tree Restaurant opened its doors in 1971 and is one of the very few restaurants in San Antonio that carries on traditional European culinary practices. Everything from their food to the waiters dressed in high-end suits, the Fig Tree takes you out of time and space. The Fig Tree Restaurant holds some interesting history within its walls, as occupies the historic Dashiell House inside the historic arts village of La Villita. The house was built around 1850 by Major Jeremiah Dashiell and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Despite their deep roots in history and tradition, the Fig Tree Restaurant has always kept an eye out for innovation. While being in the center of downtown, the Fig Tree has witnessed an ever-changing city and tourism industry. Over the years, the restaurant avidly works to keep up with changing needs and trends in order to broaden their costumer base and better serve the community. But the authentic style of the Fig Tree Restaurant never falters and that’s really what makes this spot a gem in San Antonio culinary history and culture.
Frost Bank
Frost Bank is one of the largest Legacy Businesses in San Antonio, having grown to serve millions across the United States. In 1868, T.C. Frost opened up a small mercantile store in San Antonio providing everyday supplies to help Texans create and maintain their homes within the new frontier. As Texas became incorporated into the larger United States business economy, T.C. Frost transitioned his company to provide banking and financial tools for small business owners to keep up in the expanding market.
Frost Bank really flourished into the national bank that is today in the 20th century. Throughout the 20th century, Frost Bank took advantage of changing technologies and economy to adapt their services to meet the unique needs of each decade. It is this strategic planning and adaptability that allowed Frost Bank to prove themselves as a long-lasting, reliable, innovative business. Frost Bank has withstood as a business and confidant for customers through the toughest national financial crises, putting the people first as the business recovers and rebuilds. With this independent strength, Frost Bank has been able to branch off into the insurance industry, really ensuring that San Antonians are financially and physically secure. It’s rare to see such a big business take such good care of their customers. Banking may look different in this day and age, but Frost Bank has always delivered the same homegrown hospitality that it was founded on.
Frost Bank
Frost Bank is one of the largest Legacy Businesses in San Antonio, having grown to serve millions across the United States. In 1868, T.C. Frost opened up a small mercantile store in San Antonio providing everyday supplies to help Texans create and maintain their homes within the new frontier. As Texas became incorporated into the larger United States business economy, T.C. Frost transitioned his company to provide banking and financial tools for small business owners to keep up in the expanding market.
Frost Bank really flourished into the national bank that is today in the 20th century. Throughout the 20th century, Frost Bank took advantage of changing technologies and economy to adapt their services to meet the unique needs of each decade. It is this strategic planning and adaptability that allowed Frost Bank to prove themselves as a long-lasting, reliable, innovative business. Frost Bank has withstood as a business and confidant for customers through the toughest national financial crises, putting the people first as the business recovers and rebuilds. With this independent strength, Frost Bank has been able to branch off into the insurance industry, really ensuring that San Antonians are financially and physically secure. It’s rare to see such a big business take such good care of their customers. Banking may look different in this day and age, but Frost Bank has always delivered the same homegrown hospitality that it was founded on.
Jefferson Bank
In 1946, a group of prominent San Antonio businessmen applied for a charter to start a neighborhood bank in the underserved Jefferson district of San Antonio. The men had no trouble qualifying financially, but they lacked banking experience. Per the recommendation of the Texas Department of Banking, the investors approached A.J. “Jack” Lewis, a highly regarded bank examiner, to the helm of the operation as Chairman and President. This is where the legacy of Jefferson Bank begins.
The charter was approved and Jefferson Bank opened its doors at 1904 Fredericksburg Road on August 12, 1946. After eight prosperous years, Jefferson Bank caught the eye of a group of large-scale investors from Houston. Defying his associates, Jack Lewis would not sell out their local business. He and his wife Grace took a bold step to maintain their ownership of the business. The original investors soon moved on to other projects, leaving Jack as the majority shareholder, establishing himself as a strong leader.
Jefferson Bank was able to maintain their identity as a local, family-owned financial institution. Since then, four generations of the Lewis family have been actively involved in the growth and management of Jefferson Bank. Today, Jack’s grandsons Paul McSween III and Steve Lewis serve as the Bank’s President and Chairman of the Board. Through the years, Jefferson Bank has expanded its footprint across San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Jefferson Bank commits themselves to personal, straightforward delivery of services, with honesty and integrity. Under a family leadership, the Bank is guided by the family’s value that residents can resonate with, coupled with a conservative banking philosophy. It’s the way business has always been done, and it’s how Jefferson Bank has maintained unique relationships with generations of San Antonio residents, building up their financial independence and security.
With such strong ties to San Antonio, Jefferson Bank – both the owners and the employees—have established themselves as advocates in the community. Jefferson Bank often gives back to local organizations through charitable donations and volunteerism. While our employees are tellers, personal banking specialists, lending officers, trust and estate advisors and more, they are also scout leaders, little league coaches, counselors for single moms, voices for children in need, and volunteers for numerous community causes. They invest thousands of volunteer hours annually, helping San Antonio, Boerne and New Braunfels continue to grow as vibrant, caring communities.
Jefferson Bank
In 1946, a group of prominent San Antonio businessmen applied for a charter to start a neighborhood bank in the underserved Jefferson district of San Antonio. The men had no trouble qualifying financially, but they lacked banking experience. Per the recommendation of the Texas Department of Banking, the investors approached A.J. “Jack” Lewis, a highly regarded bank examiner, to the helm of the operation as Chairman and President. This is where the legacy of Jefferson Bank begins.
The charter was approved and Jefferson Bank opened its doors at 1904 Fredericksburg Road on August 12, 1946. After eight prosperous years, Jefferson Bank caught the eye of a group of large-scale investors from Houston. Defying his associates, Jack Lewis would not sell out their local business. He and his wife Grace took a bold step to maintain their ownership of the business. The original investors soon moved on to other projects, leaving Jack as the majority shareholder, establishing himself as a strong leader.
Jefferson Bank was able to maintain their identity as a local, family-owned financial institution. Since then, four generations of the Lewis family have been actively involved in the growth and management of Jefferson Bank. Today, Jack’s grandsons Paul McSween III and Steve Lewis serve as the Bank’s President and Chairman of the Board. Through the years, Jefferson Bank has expanded its footprint across San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Jefferson Bank commits themselves to personal, straightforward delivery of services, with honesty and integrity. Under a family leadership, the Bank is guided by the family’s value that residents can resonate with, coupled with a conservative banking philosophy. It’s the way business has always been done, and it’s how Jefferson Bank has maintained unique relationships with generations of San Antonio residents, building up their financial independence and security.
With such strong ties to San Antonio, Jefferson Bank – both the owners and the employees—have established themselves as advocates in the community. Jefferson Bank often gives back to local organizations through charitable donations and volunteerism. While our employees are tellers, personal banking specialists, lending officers, trust and estate advisors and more, they are also scout leaders, little league coaches, counselors for single moms, voices for children in need, and volunteers for numerous community causes. They invest thousands of volunteer hours annually, helping San Antonio, Boerne and New Braunfels continue to grow as vibrant, caring communities.
About
The San Antonio Legacy Business program pay tribute to legendary businesses located in the City of San Antonio. The purpose of the program is to acknowledge the contributions businesses have made to the city’s culture and economy. The program aims to champion the continued success of legacy businesses through promotional and educational support.
Nominate!
Show your support for businesses we love! Help OHP identify Legacy Businesses around the city. Simply complete this short nomination form , or tag #legacybizsa on social media to nominate a historic business and help keep San Antonio authentic.