Downtown’s longtime Blanco Cafe space is getting a major glow-up.
New restaurant Luz Roja will open March 10 in the former location of the Tex-Mex staple, 419 N. Saint Mary’s St., offering what its owners describe as a fresh and flavorful approach to Tex-Mex cuisine based on “clean proteins, fresh herbs and spices.”
The space also is getting a dining room renovation that combines traditional Mexican design with stylish contemporary touches, although Blanco Cafe’s distinctive black-and-white tile floor appears to be part of the design, according to photos. Additionally, the dining spot will feature a River Walk patio, a full-service cantina and private dining areas, its owners said.
Downtown developer and longtime apartment investor Devin Elder is behind Luz Roja, according to details shared by management. Elder also owns and renovated the Travis Building, located next door to Luz Roja.
To help “create and curate” Luz Roja, Elder brought in restaurateur Dan Ward — who spent 24 years as operating partner behind San Antonio’s two Piatti locations before striking out on his own in 2022.
“As a downtown developer, I am excited to bring new local concepts to downtown,” Elder said in an emailed statement. “Luz Roja aims to support the revitalization of the N. St. Mary’s block, bringing new energy to San Antonio’s Downtown West neighborhood.”
Blanco Cafe departed the St. Mary’s Street location in 2023.
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This article appears in Feb 19-25, 2025.
