San Antonio is only the second city in the U.S. to earn the distinction of ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’, and is the first in Texas. The city’s culinary heritage is significant for its confluence of many world cultures such as Mexican, Spanish, German and French, as well its geology and geography. Recognizing this diversity, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated San Antonio a Creative City of Gastronomy, making the city part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
Drawn to San Antonio’s river running between the coastal plains and hill country, for 13,000 years indigenous people foraged roots, harvested pecans and hunted game. Trails and river ways brought trade with other groups who introduced gulf coast game. In the 1700s, Spanish colonists and Canary Islanders introduced new traditions and tastes. Other new flavors, spices and ingredients from Europe, Asia and Africa came with German and other European settlers in the 1800s.
Today the city’s culinary scene has since blossomed in its richness, with chefs honoring and celebrating its culinary heritage through preservation and innovation. Beyond the famous River Walk and historic walls of The Alamo, San Antonio’s culinary scene has historically been firmed planted in blends of Tex-Mex, but has now progressed to “Tex-Next.”
“This is an exciting time for the culinary arts in San Antonio—the designation reinforces the creativity and hard work of every individual who participates in and supports the local culinary community and the philanthropy of so many groups, like the Chef Cooperatives and our chapter of Les Dames D’Escoffier,” Chef Johnny Hernandez of Grupo La Gloria said. “From showcasing our culinary heritage to sharing local innovations and leading the way with San Antonio’s brand of culinary diplomacy, the opportunities afforded us as a City of Gastronomy are all reasons for San Antonio to celebrate today.”
As a gateway to Latin America, San Antonio is uniquely positioned to showcase and celebrate the richness of this cuisine. The third campus of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA) is located in San Antonio. Dedicated to the foundations of culinary instruction as well as specializations in Latin cuisine, this campus takes advantage of San Antonio’s cultural influences and access to indigenous ingredients. The CIA campus is located at Pearl, a 22-acre indie food haven in a repurposed German brewery built in 1883. With 18 concepts, including a robust weekend farmers market and the city’s first food hall, Pearl is a destination onto itself.
UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network promotes international cooperation and encourages the sharing of experiences and resources to promote local development through culture and creativity. The local food movement and enthusiasm for sustainable programs spurred the dramatic evolution of San Antonio’s culinary landscape and inspired a comprehensive effort to apply for the UNESCO designation in June 2017.
“Travelers are increasingly seeking a destination with a robust culinary scene as a way to really get to know the heart of a city,” said Casandra Matej, President & CEO of Visit San Antonio. “The UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy designation confirms what millions of visitors have known all along—San Antonio’s cuisine is truly unique and authentic to our region.”
Plan Your Visit To San Antonio
In 2015, UNESCO designated San Antonio’s 18th century Spanish colonial missions as a World Heritage Site - the first in Texas. In 2018, the city will celebrate its 300th anniversary, honoring its rich past and a bright future focused on innovation and livability. To plan your visit go to visit www.sanantonio.gov.
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