Today on Texas Eats NOW:
TXE 060926 PORTILLOS
(KSAT 2026)
PORTILLO’S
18678 I 35 N Frontage Rd, Schertz, TX 78154
Portillo’s is the newest addition to the Texas dining scene, officially opening its doors in Schertz on June 9. This fast-casual chain started as a humble hot dog stand in Chicago and has since become a beloved favorite, known for its energetic vibe and mouth-watering Windy City specialties. The Schertz location boasts a modern design with double drive-thru lanes, indoor and outdoor seating, and easy pickup options.
The menu is filled with Portillo’s iconic dishes, from Italian beef sandwiches loaded with thinly sliced roast beef dipped in savory gravy to authentic Chicago-style hot dogs topped in the traditional way. Don’t forget the crinkle-cut fries and the legendary Chocolate Cake Shake, where a whole slice of chocolate cake is blended into a thick milkshake. The grand opening attracted crowds excited to savor one of Chicago’s most cherished restaurant brands as it expands across Texas.
TXE 060926 PINGS
(KSAT 2026)
PING’S SICHUAN KITCHEN
2339 E Evans Rd, Ste 103, San Antonio, TX 78259
Ping’s Sichuan Kitchen introduces the bold, complex flavors of China’s Sichuan province to North San Antonio. Owned by Ping “Joanne” Xia, this family-run restaurant specializes in authentic Chongqing-style cuisine, with recipes that have been cherished through generations. It’s a favorite among locals for its dedication to traditional cooking methods and a knack for balancing intense flavors with fresh ingredients.
The menu features the signature mala flavor profile, blending fiery chilies with the unique numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns. Popular dishes include Ping’s Boiled Spicy Beef, Chongqing Spicy Chicken, Classically prepared Dong Po Pork, and house-made soup dumplings. For those looking for milder options, favorites like Walnut Shrimp, West Lake Beef Soup, and Sweet Garlic Chicken are available. With its authentic dishes and welcoming atmosphere, Ping’s Sichuan Kitchen has quickly become a standout for regional Chinese cuisine in San Antonio.
TXE 060926 Ambler
(KSAT 2026)
AMBLER TEXAS KITCHEN + COCKTAILS
306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Located in Hotel Contessa along the picturesque San Antonio River Walk, Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails offers a chef-driven dining experience that merges South Texas flavors with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant’s warm ambiance and lively riverside patio have made it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of elevated Texas cuisine.
Ambler’s menu showcases regional ingredients with creative twists on classic favorites. Signature dishes include smoked brisket from nearby Augusta Ranch, Texas Akaushi chicken fried steak, blackened Gulf red snapper, and skillet cornbread served with jamaica flower honey butter. The drink menu is equally impressive, featuring agave-forward cocktails like the Oaxaca Old Fashioned and a selection of Texas wines. With stunning River Walk views and delicious food, Ambler promises a dining experience that embodies the essence of modern South Texas cuisine.
Crawfish King
(KSAT 2026)
CRAWFISH KING
8142 Shin Oak Dr, Live Oak, TX 78233
Crawfish King is a unique, veteran-connected restaurant in Live Oak that combines Lao and Asian flavors with fresh seafood. Co-owner Jet Chan began this journey with a food truck before moving to a permanent location, drawing inspiration from the home cooking traditions of Lao, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine taught by his father.
