On Wednesday, March 18, San Antonio Mayor Ron instituted new regulations to help prevent the spread of the cornavirus. He ordered the temporary closure of restaurant dining rooms, bars, lounges, nightclubs, taverns, gyms or health studios, bowling alleys, bingo parlors and theaters. Restaurants with drive-throughs or carry out options will remain open.
The new guidelines will remain in effect until Sunday, April 19 unless the City Council decides to extend the closures.
The regulations have dealt a blow to San Antonio’s restaurants, including LGBTQ eateries.
“This is a trying time for everyone in the food and beverage industry,” Scott Lee-Ross, marketing director for Luther’s Cafe and Pup’s Pizza Place [inside Knockout], said in a Facebook post. “As we on The Strip have supported you and your friends over the years, I ask you now to support Knockout and Luther’s Cafe as we transition to takeout food service only. Your visit helps an employee to put some food on the table and pay their bills.”
Lee-Ross’ concerns are echoed at hundreds of other local restaurant who find themselves in the same predicament. While going to a “take-out” only model will not keep a restaurant at the same financial level, it represents the spirit of their stick-to-it efforts.
Below is a list of restaurants that can benefit from the support of our community.
WD Deli
3123 Broadway St. (210) 828-2322, wddeli.com
WD Deli remains open offering curbside service and delivery (5 orders or more) by their staff, and through third party delivery services like Postmates or Grubhub. “Your health and safety are important to us,” Wayne D. Beer, one of the deli’s proprietors said in a recent announcement. “So we will continue to monitor and comply with measures to ensure the utmost protection to you, your family and our community.” Those who wish to support the deli during this difficult time are encouraged to purchase a gift card on it’s website. Call to place orders or go to their website.
Editor’s note: Shortly after this article was published, Michael Bobo of WD Deli posted the following statement on Facebook. “In light of the current situation and the tightening restrictions on non-essential businesses, we have made the very difficult and sad decision to close at 3:00 p.m. today, Saturday, March 21, 2020. We will reopen when everything calms down and everyone is safe. Better days are ahead.”
Luther’s Cafe
1503 N Main Ave, (210) 223-7727
Tired of being stuck at work or working at home? Grab lunch from Luther’s. A one-third pound burger and fries or tots are just $7.25. Order from Luther’s and you can add a can or bottle of beer. Social distance doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy their delicious burgers from home. Take-out available all day. Drop by or call to place your order.
Pup’s Pizza Place (inside Knockout Sports Bar)
1420 N Main Ave., 210-227-7678
Pup Pizza Place will remain open to serve takeout guests daily. Pizza by the slice and full pizzas may be picked up from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Drop by or call to place your order.
Deco Pizzaria
1815 Fredericksburg Rd, (210) 732-3326 & 1815 Fredericksburg Rd, (210) 996-3326
Both locations are open and ready for your orders. Pizza, wings, pasta, sandwiches, salads, beer and wine. Order food curbside pick up or delivery and include a 6-pack of beer, bottle of wine or a frozen margarita. Call to place your order or drop by.
Tio’s Con Sabor Food Truck
(210) 986-8226
Tio’s Con Sabor de Casa, Food Truck, Catering and Delivery, will receive the Business Member of the Year Award from the San Antonio LGBT Chamber of Commerce for giving back to the community in support of the Chamber. In light of the new regulations, Tio’s food truck is adjusting their ordering line to allow no more than five customers at a time and spaced six feet apart. They have hand sanitizer available for customers and will no longer set up tables for guests to eat on.
Candlelight Coffeehouse, Wine Bar and Cafe
3011 N Saint Marys St., (210) 738-0099, candlelightsatx.com
The Candlelight has their menu and drink menu available for curbside service, delivery within a three mile radius, and through services like Grub Hub, from 11 a.m to 7 p.m. They are also selling their signature coffees and a mimosa set at $10.00 to go with your meal.
The San Antonio Current recently published a list of more restaurants that have pivoted to offer curbside, to-go and meal deliveries.