Little Em’s sets Nov. 12 opening date for new location in San Antonio’s Southtown

Southtown dining fixture Little Em’s Oyster Bar has set a Nov. 12 date for its relaunch in larger digs across the street from its original location.

Restaurateurs Houston and Emily Carpenter earlier this year closed fancy dining spot Up Scale, 1024 S. Alamo St. and unveiled plans to move four-year-old Little Em’s into the bigger space. They also said new concept Beau’s Tiny Diner would open in the original Little Em’s building at 1001 S. Alamo St.

The original Little Em’s last day of service will be Nov. 10, and Beau’s is scheduled to begin service next spring, said May Carlson, marketing director for the owners’ Carpenter Carpenter Hospitality.

The relaunched Little Em’s will have four times as much square footage, accommodating up to 160 diners, compared to the original’s total seating of 58, the majority on an outdoor patio. The expanded restaurant also will feature a full bar, additional restrooms and a 2,000-square-foot deck.

Steven Kelley, formerly of Dean’s Steak & Seafood and the Carpenters’ Nineteen Hyaku, will serve as Little Em’s head chef, while the enigmatically named Chef Slim will hold down the post of oyster manager, according to the owners.

Little Em’s revamped menu will include the original eatery’s namesake fresh oysters and other favorites along with new options including additional fresh seafood dishes, filet mignon and vegetarian selections.

The relocated Little Em’s will be open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

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This article appears in Oct 30 – Nov 5, 2024.