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Jorge Cortez

Restaurateur, Painter, Community Leader

One of the city’s most beloved and visionary leaders, Jorge Cortez is the most public face of a San Antonio restaurant empire that dates to 1941. What began as a humble three-table café in 1941 today includes Pico de Gallo, La Margarita and MI Tierra. The vivid murals, massive baroque bar and dizzying lights strands at Mi Tierra make it a downtown landmark favored by locals and visitors alike.  

Jorge Cortez

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Jorge Cortez

I love to walk in the King William area -- it has everything. Little cafes, popular restaurants, tree-lined streets, historic homes and the San Antonio River.

So much about San Antonio is unique, but Fiesta rules. Come to Market Square during Fiesta for the Polish tacos, gorditas and accordions. It is an absolute celebration of San Antonio food. A San Antonio treasure? The Alamo--and we love to share it with our visitors. What a gem we have in the newly renovated Main Plaza. It’s a beautiful connection to the River Walk and a place where people of all ages gather to hear music, eat lunch and enjoy the fresh air.

I’m very excited about The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) which provides a gateway for students from all the Latino countries to come and study. And it’s at the Pearl Brewery, definitely the hottest place in town right now.

My favorite restaurant for burgers is the Malt House on the West side. It’s a drive-in, like from the 1950s. They come out to your car or you can go inside. For barbeque, Rudy’s never lets you down. It’s fast, delicious and reasonable. When I want Italian, it’s Paesano’s for everything from Shrimp Paesano to spaghetti. You can’t go wrong with Tex-Mex at Taco Haven or Cascabel downtown. Out in Stone Oak, Cielito Lindo has outstanding caldo. American fare is great at Cappy’s on Broadway--seafood, salads, sandwiches. The Little Red Barn is very family friendly…wonderful salad, steaks and prices.

The Omni La Mansion del Rio Hotel is a lovely romantic venue, and Boudro’s on the River Walk is perfect for a romantic dinner.