San Antonio’s only sober bar, HASH Vegan Eats, is once again fighting to keep its doors open.
Founded in 2020 by brothers Rogelio and Michael Sanchez, the South Side spot quickly became known for its fully vegan menu and alcohol-free drinks — and for providing a safe haven for locals navigating sobriety.
Now, the Sanchez brothers are asking the community for financial support to ensure the survival of the business, located at 5007 S. Flores St.
“Running a super-niche business is hard, but we are built for doing difficult things,” the pair said in a HASH Instagram post. “However, things have been especially slow lately, and we are on the verge of making decisions we don’t want to make.”
Adding that any support was “greatly appreciated,” the post included several ways for people to donate: $HashVeganEatery on Cash App, @HashVeganEats on Venmo or via the spot’s nonprofit Cash App account, $SHCSATX.
“We never want to stop our dream, but this world isn’t making it easy, and without help we may not last,” the post concluded.
The locally owned establishment has asked for support in the past, launching a GoFundMe in 2024 to help stave off closure. It also conducted a separate crowdfunding in 2021 as it struggled through the pandemic.
In comments to the Current, Rogelio Sanchez said he’s thankful for the support of HASH’s customers. However, he said mom-and-pop ventures face an uphill struggle.
“It’s not just us. It’s all small businesses,” Sanchez said. “It’s stressful when I leave after having a slow day and pass a packed Pluckers or some large chain. But I want to state it’s not for lack of support, our community is amazing and so supportive.”
Sanchez said the business needs to increase its volume to make up for recent losses it suffered as it conducted needed upgrades to its site.
“Being in the food truck was a necessary transition, but I fear we haven’t returned to previous volume since returning back inside after the renovations,” he added.
Those wishing to show the support have plenty of vegan options to choose from. Among other things, HASH’s menu includes a plant-based chorizo cheeseburger, pozole with shredded jackfruit, Frito pie, carne guisada tacos and creamy macaroni and cheese with multiple topping options. The eatery also offers cornbread chick’n and waffles and vegan omelettes for breakfast.
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