I hardly ever complain about the H-E-B monopoly in San Antonio, but there is a definite lack of local food stores in town. Chef Tim McDiarmid of Tim the Girl catering responded by opening Uncommon Fare at 301 E. Cevallos in Southtown. The shop offers a variety of food and health products, including organic produce, grass-fed beef, and flowers. There's also a selection of prepared foods and pies. You can even get a massage or facial at MBS Spa above the store.
If you're looking for New Year's Eve dining options, dozens of restaurants are offering specials, but the dinner at the Boiler House looks especially interesting. The new restaurant at the Pearl Brewery is offering a six-course meal with three courses from Boiler House chef James Moore and three by chef Jesse Perez, whose own Pearl eatery, Arcade Midtown Kitchen, is set to open next year. Dinner is $65 per person — call (210) 354-4644 for reservations.