Las Canarias
San Antonio
New? No. Noteworthy? Definitely. A romantic Spanish atmosphere prevails (flamenco guitarist “El Curro” Campion plays several nights a week), and chef John Brand is making his mark, presiding over a seasonally changing New American menu that offers the likes of venison, whole roasted branzino, and duck breast, all beautifully presented. At a recent meal, chilled melon soup countered the evening’s lingering heat; seared caramelized scallops came stacked on delicate coins of yellow watermelon; heirloom tomatoes shared a platter with barely warm grilled avocado; and Texas quail was paired with a delightful corn relish—late summer on a plate. Bar. Omni La Mansión del Rio Hotel, 112 College (210-518-1063). Open 7 days 6:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Champagne brunch Sun 10–2. $$-$$$$ W+
Patrizio
Fort Worth
Making further inroads into Cowtown, prolific restaurateur Ed Bailey has opened a new branch of this Metroplex chain in the busy West 7th complex, home to his already popular Bailey’s Prime Plus. The lovely, plush dining rooms seat a whopping three-hundred-plus, and there’s a large cocktail lounge and an outdoor patio. As for the food, the open-faced ravioli appear to be a fan favorite, the sizable sheets of pasta folded envelope-style around sautéed artichokes, mushrooms, roasted peppers, and asparagus. Another popular dish is the chicken-and-mushroom lasagne, sitting in a pool of tomato sauce and basking in a smoked-Gouda cream. Pizzas are dramatically served tableside on a cast-iron stand. Bar. 2932 Crockett (817-698-0003). Open Sun & Mon 11–10, Tue–Thur 11–11, Fri & Sat 11–midnight. $$ W+
