SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 20, 2025) — The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is preparing to debut Esencia, an all-new restaurant concept guided by acclaimed San Antonio chef Leo Davila. Opening this winter, Esencia will bring a multicultural, modern approach to Texas cuisine, highlighting Davila’s Chinese and Mexican heritage within a refined, two-level dining space inside the historic downtown hotel.

The 130-seat restaurant will showcase elevated dishes, craft cocktails, private dining options and a design aesthetic rooted in San Antonio’s rich history.

A Blend of Cultures and Culinary Identity

Esencia’s menu is built on the dynamic fusion of Spanish, Mexican and Asian influences, reflecting the complex cultural identity of modern-day San Antonio. Chef Davila — known for multiple awards, successful concepts and a James Beard Award nomination — said Esencia represents a personal and culinary vision he has long hoped to share.

The menu will highlight Texas-sourced ingredients, including prime beef, wild game, Gulf seafood and heirloom vegetables. Featured dishes include:

• Carne Asada Frites with Wagyu ribeye, potato pavé, avocado salad and Asian chimichurri

• Arroz con Pollo reimagined with cornish hen ballotine, mole amarillo, huitlacoche and squash fried rice

• Beef and Broccoli modernized with Asian-spiced Wagyu tartare, beets and broccoli mole

• Duck & Flower, pairing Asian-spiced duck breast with hibiscus and Texas pecan mole

Davila’s menu also incorporates meaningful nods to his upbringing, including his signature Barbacoa & Big Red Tacos — a tribute to San Antonio’s West Side — enhanced with pickled watermelon rind in memory of his grandfather.

“Esencia is more than a name – it’s a philosophy,” Davila said. “Our mission is to capture the true essence of San Antonio cuisine. This city has a story to tell, and food is my way of sharing it.”

Cocktails and Wine with Global Influence

The beverage program will feature Asian spirits, tequilas, mezcals, Texas whiskeys and a wide-ranging wine list. Signature drinks include:

• Smoked Old Fashioned, featuring an exclusive bourbon from Anacacho Coffee & Cantina’s Barrel Program with Garrison Brothers

• Cherry Blossom Sour, crafted with sake, gin, lemon and cherry blossom honey

A curated wine program will highlight four signature regions: Texas, the West Coast, Mexico and select international producers.

A Design Rooted in San Antonio’s History

Esencia’s interior design pays tribute to the city’s layered history. The restaurant will feature Spanish influences, cantera stone, wrought-iron elements and a warm palette of terracotta, sage, teal and soft neutrals. Local artist Regina Moya was commissioned to paint sunset clouds across the ceiling, creating an immersive, atmospheric backdrop.

The main dining room reintroduces the hotel’s original Spanish courtyard-inspired layout, complete with olive trees and inviting lighting. Esencia will also offer multiple private dining spaces:

• The Main Room with Spanish décor and seating for 14–16

• The Shanghai Room, an Asian-influenced space accommodating up to 20

• The Mezzanine, seating 30–40 with drawn drapery and balcony access

Collaboration With Local Partners

The restaurant’s creation involved several San Antonio partners, including Reasonable Remodelers, Doortex, Alan Petlin Gourmet Floors, Saylee-Greer Landscape Architecture, artist Regina Moya and Interior Affairs.

“We are thrilled to unveil Esencia to the public soon,” said St. Anthony General Manager Maria Martinez. “Esencia is not only an exceptional amenity for our hotel guests, but a gathering place for our San Antonio community.”

Esencia will open this winter inside the St. Anthony Hotel at 300 E. Travis St., San Antonio, TX 78205. An official opening date will be announced soon. More information is available at the hotel’s website, thestanthonyhotel.com.