All You Can Eat

Seafood puffs, an Asian Kitchen appetizer. (Photo by Laura McKenzie)

News and notes from the San Antonio food scene

Honored: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has named Mad Dogs Pub, 123 Losoya, as restaurant of the month for its vegetarian and vegan offerings. These include Mediterranean red pepper and chili soup topped with non-dairy "sour cream" and tofu and vegetable mini-kebabs.

Azúca has been named one of the Top 50 Hispanic restaurants in the United States by Hispanic Magazine. The announcement appears in the October 2004 edition.

Award-winners: The American Culinary Federation, the accrediting body of American chefs, awarded several medals to local chefs during the Taste of San Antonio. A silver medal went to Chef Buddy Jung of Radisson Hotel Market Square. A graduate of St. Philip's Culinary School, he also received the Gold Medal from the San Antonio Restaurant Association.

Chef Johnny Hernandez of True Flavors Culinary Planners received an ACF bronze and a SARA Silver. Chef Christina M. Perrington of Ace Mart Restaurant Supply received bronzes from the ACF and SARA.

The Taste of San Antonio People's Choice Award went to the trio of restaurants, Mi Tierra, La Margarita, and Pico de Gallo. The Best of the Taste Award was awarded to Clear Springs Restaurant, while Absolutely Everything Catering received Best Decor.

Recently opened: Firehouse Subs has added another location at Babcock and Huebner, the chain's third SA opening this year. The submarine menu includes an Italian and New York steamer, smoked turkey, tuna, pastrami, and roast beef versions. Soups, salads, and combos are also available.

The other locations are Vance Jackson at IH-10 and 19141 Stone Oak Parkway.

Opening soon: The Lion and Rose Authentic English Pub, 5148 Broadway, plans to add hint of English style to San Antonio, with fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie. The pub also will feature an area for darts and dominos.

Compiled By: Marlene Jasso and Lisa Sorg

A complete meal: eggs and Shiner

Huevos buenos

King Huevo Joe Lopez and Queen Huevo Enedina Vasquez will reign over Huevos Rancheros Gala and Art Auction on Saturday, October 16 at 9am at Plaza Avendia Guadalupe. Musical groups Sexto Sol and Frank Rodarte will perform; Santiago Garcia will read poetry. The breakfast celebrates the city's artistic and cultural heritage. Donations of any amount are accepted; all proceeds benefit San Anto Cultural Arts.

Hold the bagpipes

"Celebrating Food & Ale" is the topic of a cooking school hosted by instructors Susan Sellers and Brian Tarver. The menu includes classic Scotch eggs with fresh herbs, smoked haddock chowder, and potato and leek pies, which will be paired with select Scottish ales. The class will be held Thursday, October 14 from 6:30-9pm. Cost is $45.

Art at Silo

New paintings, photography, and sculpture will be displayed at Silo, 1133 Austin Highway, through January 14. An artists' reception for featured painter David Garcia, painters Jane Digby and Teri Wright, photographer Maunty Collins, and sculptor Jayne Lawrence is scheduled for October 14 from 6:30-8:30pm. Info: 824-8686.

Booze and tunes

Kid Rock headlines Shiner Bocktoberfest on October 16, noon-10:30pm in Shiner, Texas, about about 75 miles east of San Antonio. Featured artists include Staind, Lyle Lovett, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Asleep at the Wheel, Cory Morrow, and Bill Pekar. Advance tickets are $35, $40 at the gate. Children under 6 are free with paid adult admission. Tickets and info: www.shiner.com.

Need an oil change?

"Essential Oils: the Missing Link in Modern Medicine" is the topic of a discussion at Whole Foods Market, 255 E. Basse, Thursday, October 14 from 7-9pm. Natural health educator April Travis will talk about the physical and emotional health benefits of the oils. Cost is $19; a $5 sampling fee is payable to the instructor.

Compiled by Lisa Sorg