San Antonio’s vibrant blend of art, culture and fun isn’t limited to its historic missions and colorful festivals — it’s also on the cutting edge of culinary excellence. With local chefs and restaurants earning accolades from Michelin and the James Beard Foundation, our city’s food scene is a feast for both the palate and the soul. The Alamo City is exceptionally proud to have a long list of chefs who have received, not only local, but national and even global attention from these top organizations.

In the heart of San Antonio’s revitalized Pearl District, where historic charm meets modern flair, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary schools, the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), is cooking up a revolution that’s as rich in tradition as it is in innovation. As part of San Antonio’s proud designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the CIA has become an integral ingredient in the city’s evolving culinary recipe, blending world-class education with local flavor to create a lasting impact on the region’s food scene with unparalleled expertise and passion.

These iconic San Antonio restaurants have stood the test of time. They’re not just culinary legacies, they are legendary.

The impact the Cortez family of Mi Tierra has had on San Antonio is beyond measure.This city would not be what it is today if not for the philanthropic efforts of the Cortez family.