Bud Jones restaurant opened in 1958. Credit: Instagram / budjonesrestaurant
South Side comfort-food mainstay Bud Jones is warning that without customer help it could be the next longtime San Antonio restaurant to close its doors.

In a Wednesday Facebook message, the business’ owners said they’re dealing with difficult times and urged customers to help out by dining in or ordering takeout. Bud Jones, located at 1440 SW Military Drive, is know for hearty fare including an array of fried seafood platters and a country-fried steak it bills as the “largest in town.”

“For more than 65 years, our family has proudly served this incredible community across three generations, and it has truly been an honor to be a part of your lives,” the message states. “However, right now, we are struggling to keep the lights on, and we need your support more than ever.”

The plea comes as San Antonio’s restaurant scene grapples with high costs, labor turnover and belt-tightening by consumers. Since the middle of last year, the city has lost longtime favorites including Dignowity Meats, El Siete Mares Seafood and Godai Sushi.

San Antonio resident Bud Jones founded his namesake restaurant in 1958 after returning from stints in the Merchant Marines and as a chef on a luxury cruise liner, according to the restaurant’s website. He launched the business in a former grocery store at the busy corner of Southwest Military Drive and Commercial Avenue.

Jones’ daughter Kathy took over the business in 1985, then passed on the family legacy to her daughter Kaycee in 2019.

“Every meal you share with us, every takeout order, and every positive review helps us stay afloat and continue doing what we love,” the restaurant’s Facebook message adds. “It’s not just about the food — it’s about the connections we’ve built with all of you over the years.”

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This article appears in Feb 5-18, 2025.

Sanford Nowlin is editor-in-chief of the San Antonio Current. He holds degrees from Trinity University and the University of Texas at San Antonio, and his work has been featured in Salon, Alternet, Creative...