Join us at Switchgrass Landing for our Sunday Brunch Buffet from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., featuring bottomless mimosas, hot and cold buffet, carving stations, desserts, and more. Enjoy Coastal American cuisine with beautiful bay views at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel and let us elevate your culinary experience.
Ser ving the coastal bend community for 25+ years!
The Coastal Bend has a variety of talented, passionate and expert business professionals. Meet the faces behind the region’s most prominent local businesses impacting this community.
This feature takes readers on a taste-testing adventure through the area’s top spots, from Butter’s in Sinton to Stevie Lew’s in Rockport. Plus, we’re finally unveiling the results from the Battle for the Best BBQ online competition, where readers weighed in on who they think serves up the best ’cue around.
Pictured above: Nueces Brewing & Barbecuing
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Fairly quickly into reading this month’s feature, you’ll begin to notice a theme, and I’m not talking about barbecue. I’m not quite sure why this particular meal seems so intertwined with the concept of family.
Maybe it’s because the act of smoking meats inherently means people gathering for long periods of time until the results are ready to be served. Perhaps it’s due to the fact that many spice rubs, secret sauces and side dishes come from recipes passed down through generations. It could simply be that eating barbecue is typically a communal act—one where many serving dishes fill a table and are passed around, akin to a Thanksgiving meal. Whether it’s in someone’s backyard or at a local restaurant, is anyone ever really cooking for one when barbecue is on the menu?
When feature writer Evelyn Martinez spoke with Tom Messner, Howard’s BBQ owner Jim Mathews’ son-in-law and right-hand man, it became abundantly clear that family is at the root of everything. “There’s something
about barbecue [that makes us all] feel like family,” Messner shares on page 40. He goes on to reflect that he doesn’t think the original owner, Norman Howard, ever ate a hot meal at the restaurant. To no fault of the kitchen, Mr. Howard would just get wrapped up in conversation with patrons, most of whom he knew by name, before he could ever take a bite.
“[Our regulars] have been coming to us for years and years,” Messner said fondly. “For several families, we’ve [catered] a birthday for a 1-year-old, and then we’d do their high school graduation, college graduation and a wedding. It’s incredible to see that.”
Here in the Coastal Bend, generations of pitmasters have honed their craft, blending regional styles and cherished family recipes. This month’s cover feature is an homage to that fact. Starting on page 30, senior writers Luis Arjona and Jacquleine Gonzalez join Martinez in spotlighting 15 local barbecue joints in the Coastal Bend from Sinton to Rockport. Aside from serving exceptional flavor, what each spot has in common is its family ties, both in terms of history and how its staffers view their customers.
Plus, we’re sharing the highly anticipated results of our Battle for the Best BBQ, where our readers crowned one local barbecue joint as the best in the area (pg. 36). Also inside this issue, we’re thrilled to present to you the annual special advertising section, Faces of the Coastal Bend (pg. 44).
Each year, our November issue typically revolves around a food theme of sorts. This always leads me to view this particular issue as our metaphorical table, around which our readers gather. The season also brings a theme of gratitude along with it, and year after year, I sure am glad you continue to pull a seat up at The Bend’s table.
KYLIE COOPER, EDITOR IN CHIEF kylie@thebendmag.com
With the holiday season upon us and guests soon to arrive, local interior designer Christina Fratila, curator of our Open House feature, offers her expert advice for preparing your home. Pg. 24
I love when our cover feature’s theme flows into a few of the department stories. Resident recipe developer Kayla Butts brings her parents into the fold this month by sharing her family’s recipes for a backyard barbecue. Pg. 90
BULGOGI, BANCHAN & BEYOND
A true Korean barbecue meal involves tabletop cooking, and while not every spot on our list delivers the complete experience, these local restaurants are serving distinctive flavors. Pg. 98
Take family photos with Sand Santa, find awe at the Holiday Drone Show and Lighted Boat Parade, or fill your stockings during Holiday Shop Around. Unwrap the gift of Port Aransas.
The Performing Arts Center’s new executive director shares how the multi-purpose arts space serves the whole community
By Kylie Cooper Photo by Shoocha Photography
From the time she was 5 years old, singing in church and later performing in choirs, theatre and opera, Dr. Sara Harris Baker’s life has revolved around the arts. That passion led her to study vocal performance, pursue advanced degrees in music education and research the power of arts outreach in schools, all while advocating for the future of performance spaces across the country.
With experience as an educator, dean, performer and co-owner of the Beltonian Theatre, Baker officially stepped into her role as Executive Director of the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in June. She now sees the PAC as the culmination of her life’s work: a place where education, performance, advocacy and community intersect to create a welcoming hub for the entire Coastal Bend.
Kylie Cooper: What drew you to this role and how does it feel stepping into a new chapter?
Dr. Sara Harris Baker: My family was at a transition point in our lives. Our only child had just graduated from high school, and I had recently completed a retreat for women leaders in higher education. I knew I wanted to expand the impact of my leadership, and my husband and I were drawn to the coastal environment in this empty nest phase of life. Stepping into this next chapter, I have 23 years of arts education experience behind me, and I am feeling confident in my skills but, most importantly, confident in my ability to continue learning and growing.
KC: How have the first few months on the job been?
SHB: Like every new job, there’s a big learning curve. However, I will say, the PAC has a tremendous team who have been all-in with their enthusiasm and energy to support me and the next generation of PAC programming. We had a few weeks to strategize, but some of what we’re doing is building the new plane while we’re flying it. We’re making nimble adjustments as we go.
KC: The PAC isn’t just a performing arts venue for students, but rather a hub where the community comes together in celebration of the arts. How do you envision expanding on that role?
SHB: I think this is one of the biggest misconceptions that we are working to overcome: that the PAC is just for university events and students. Certainly, we want students to always feel welcome in our space, but we want the whole community to feel like the PAC is for them. One way we already do this is by providing incredibly affordable arts experiences. Our top ticket price in the Furgason BRAVO! Series is $35, and there are discounts for seniors, active duty military/ veterans and students (not just TAMU-CC students). We are working hard on a marketing strategy to make sure the community stays informed and knows they are invited to experience all that the PAC has to offer.
KC: The Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra, among other community groups and events, calls the PAC home. How important is it for the PAC to serve as a gathering place for local organizations and audiences?
SHB: In particular, the Corpus Christi
Symphony was a huge inspiration for the PAC 20 years ago. That relationship runs deep and has consistently kept the PAC on the community’s cultural radar. With regard to the PAC as a gathering place, the world really changed during the COVID pandemic. All of us became more withdrawn and spent more time behind screens. Now, we’re seeing the negative effects of that, such as isolation and depression. Experiencing live performance with others can help elevate mood and give audience members a chance to meet other people in real life.
KC: The Furgason BRAVO! Series highlights the intersection of culture and artistry. What excites you most about this lineup, and what do you hope audiences take away?
SHB: Dr. Robert and Gloria Furgason had an amazing vision for bringing worldclass culture to the Coastal Bend, and the PAC has delivered. This season consists of Los Texmaniacs, a conjunto group from San Antonio; Twincussion, Taiwanese twin brothers who perform on marimbas and other percussion instruments; The Limeliters, a folk trio originating in San Francisco; The Glenn Miller Orchestra, a faithful tribute to the big band era; Seraph Brass, an all-women brass ensemble; and Brian Skerry, award-winning National Geographic oceanic photographer.
I think what excites me the most is being able to present a season that gives attendees a chance to broaden their experiences and tastes. It’s not just chamber music or lectures, but it spans historical eras, geography and influences. I hope audiences walk away with the curiosity to want to learn more!
KC: Looking ahead, are there any new directions you’d like to explore?
SHB: Yes! We want to add some new series, more family programming, more film events, more well-known popular artists. We’re also booking some comedians and distinguished speakers. Also, we are open to co-presenting and collaborating with our community partners. If you have an idea, we want to hear it!
Read the full interview on thebendmag.com
CONTACT
6300 Ocean Drive #572 | 361.825.2787 tamucc.edu/performing-arts-center
Setting the standard for safety and excellence as the Coastal Bend’s only board-certified plastic surgeon with an on-site
By Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos provided by The Baldwin Institute
When Jeremiah Baldwin speaks about his work, one guiding principle shines through: Lift as I climb. For Baldwin, success is only meaningful if it paves the way for others. That belief inspired him and his mother, Bridgette Baldwin, to launch The Baldwin Institute for Excellence Foundation earlier this year, a nonprofit dedicated to mentoring and empowering the next generation of leaders in Corpus Christi and beyond.
“My motto really is about what the name implies,” Baldwin explained. “It’s about reaching out and lifting your fellow man up. ‘Lift as I climb’ means ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the resources needed to succeed.”
The Baldwin Institute centers its mission on education, empowerment and leadership. Its signature curriculum, The Baldwin Blueprint, provides students with concrete tools for college readiness while deepening their pride in Black history and culture. Through paneldriven workshops and mentorship, the Blueprint connects students with leaders across the country who model confidence, service and scholarship. Sessions focus on practical skills like interview and resume prep, as well as purpose-driven leadership, so participants leave with both a plan and the belief that they belong in every room they enter.
“What continues to drive my work is that I love seeing the light bulb go off in people,” Baldwin shared. “That ‘Aha!’ moment when they finally unlock their full potential, that’s what keeps me going.”
Community celebration is woven into the learning. The inaugural Mister & Miss Juneteenth Coronation Ball this June was the capstone of a months-long leadership journey. Students earned points through attendance and engagement, interviewed with community judges and presented themselves as scholar-leaders. The evening featured speakers from beyond Texas and robust local support, and culminated in $4,500 in scholarships along with the crowning of Catherine Hall and Ethan White, who now serve as ambassadors for the program’s ideals
To learn more or get involved, follow Mister & Miss Juneteenth Corpus Christi on social media or email.
of pride, service and excellence. Looking ahead, the Institute is preparing for its second Coronation Ball in June 2026, with applications opening this winter.
For Bridgette, the institute answers a long-standing need in South Texas. “It’s important that the children know the culture and where they come from, because if you don’t know where you come from, you can’t say where you’re going,” she said. “They need to be aware that they didn’t come from nothing. We are educated, we’re cultured, we have a lot of history and so much to be proud of.”
Together, the Baldwins see the foundation as more than a program. It’s a legacy of mentorship, cultural pride and opportunity for Corpus Christi youth. After working in Washington, D.C., and seeing so many different ways of doing things, Jeremiah felt compelled to bring that knowledge and vision back home. “I believe God put it on my heart to do something for the community,” he said. “Mentoring and teaching are my passions, and I want to make sure we don’t forget about the people right here in my own city.”
@misterandmissjuneteenthcc juneteenthroyaltycc@gmail.com
The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History celebrated the joy of collective curiosity with its geek gala, an event aimed at raising awareness and funds for the museum's exhibits and programs. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with science experiments, interactive booths, life-size dinosaurs and a meal provided by the Corpus Christi Mustangs.
The annual House Party hosted by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Texas, co-chaired by Dr. Shalini Narang and Dr. Nelly Garcia Blow, featured the theme "Sarees and Sangrias." This event offered a vibrant cultural fusion experience, complete with lively music and traditional dances. The evening raised funds and awareness for the organization’s new facility and ongoing mission.
PURCHASE
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FACES OF THE COASTAL BEND
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE DON’T MISS OUT!
Our mission is to provide the Coastal Bend with the highest quality medical care that allows our patients to live their best lives. Our comprehensive approach addresses how you feel, how you look, and where you are at your stage in life. We pride ourselves in providing a custom, individualized treatment plan for all of our patients depending on their specific needs.
As we shift out of jack-olanterns and into pumpkin pie, it’s easy to find our gratitude for the season, and in my opinion, the true heart of autumn: November. November is National Healthy Skin Month, an observance designated by the American Academy of Dermatology to encourage good skincare routines and healthy habits. It’s also a special time for my family, as my daughter celebrates her 11th birthday and her budding interest in all things skincare and beauty. This month, I am sharing three essentials that are each exceptional
Enter the holiday season feeling radiant
By Natalie Werkhoven
@Castor_and_Glow
I love local businesses, and I’d love to hear from you. Contact me on Instagram with recommendations for your local health and beauty business or product. Sharing the Coastal Bend's beauty and wellness bests is my forte!
and innovative: my most requested hot rollers, a viral castor oil roller and a revitalizing facial from a beloved local spa. With the busy holiday season upon us, it’s a great time to pause, recognize blessings and find simple and lasting ways to boost our beauty and wellness routines.
THE ROLLER CLUB CURLING HOT ROLLERS, DRY BAR
Ulta Beauty, 5488 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi
These hot rollers are my secret to achieving a perfect, bouncy blowout with minimal effort. You’ll love how quickly they heat up and how the
velvet flocking makes it easy to roll your hair without any slipping. The best part? The clips are crease-free, so you won't leave any unwanted marks. With 10 rollers in two sizes, you can create the right amount of volume, whether you’re short on time and only use eight rollers or want maximum bounce with all 10. I usually let them set while I do my makeup, and in just 10-15 minutes, I’m left with shiny, frizz-free hair that looks like I just stepped out of the salon.
Intraceuticals Oxygen Treatment Facial
Skincare Butik, skincarebutik.com, 5830 McArdle Road #3, Corpus Christi
Skincare Butik is known for its holistic approach, with top-notch products sourced worldwide and luxurious spa treatments. After my skin was assessed by Master Aesthetician Desarae Cole, and my desired results were considered, the Oxygen Treatment Facial was selected to hydrate and brighten my skin. The spa has partnered with exceptional brands, such as the Australian medical-grade product line Intraceuticals.
Initially skeptical and with a personal stash of a few bottles of castor oil, I was in no hurry to buy another, convinced there was nothing new to experience. However, with constant exposure on my algorithm and having a few friends also share it with me, I gave in. New favorite alert! Organic and small-batch, with all the attributes that pass my quality check for castor oil (hexane-free, coldpressed, amber-glass bottle), this roller contains a powerful duo of castor oil and frankincense.
As the castor oil deeply penetrates and is restorative, the frankincense naturally tones and smooths the skin. The rose quartz roller ball, however, is a real revelation. In a truly luxurious experience, the rose quartz effortlessly glides the oils onto the skin, delivering a sensation that is both cooling and soothing. I love using it on my face and belly button, and my sister found great relief after using it on her forehead during a painful headache.
Using an oxygen device and specialized techniques, Cole, an expert in advanced treatments, brightened and protected my skin by infusing my facial with professionalgrade serums and boosters from Intraceuticals. It is a soothing facial that is perfect for every skin type with no downtime and rapid results. A week later, my skin exhibited even greater hydration and glow, underscoring the remarkable and lasting effects of an excellent treatment.
Make waves in your own backyard. Summer may be behind us, but now is the perfect time to start planning for next year’s backyard fun. Get your 2026 pool for 2025 pricing today! At Premier Pools & Spas, we design and build custom pools and spas that fit your lifestyle - from sleek modern retreats to family-friendly spaces built for memories. With our experienced team, you’ll enjoy exceptional craftsmanship, personalized design, and
Seven easy ways to make guests feel at home (and a little bit pampered)
By Christina Fratila Photos by Ariel Stimson, Merdog Media
As an interior designer who specializes in high-end vacation rental homes on the South Texas coast, I spend a lot of time thinking about how to make spaces feel beautiful, functional and above all, welcoming. During the holiday season, those same design principles apply at home. Whether you’re hosting family overnight or gathering with friends for a festive dinner, the goal is the same: Make people feel cared for and at ease.
The good news? You don’t need to reinvent your entire house to do that. With a few thoughtful, guest-friendly touches, you can create an experience that feels warm, elevated and completely effortless. Here are seven simple ways to make your home feel holiday-ready (without losing your mind in the process).
Beautiful design is important, but when it comes to hospitality, function matters just as much. I like to think ahead about what guests might forget to pack: phone chargers, toothpaste, a hairdryer or even a spare toothbrush. Keep a small basket of toiletries in the guest bath, print out your Wi-Fi password and leave it in a frame on the nightstand and
A warm holiday welcome starts with thoughtful touches, such as a cozy guest room layered in comfort and a basket filled with locally sourced treats and seasonal favorites.
have an extra throw blanket at the end of the bed. These small gestures go a long way toward making people feel at home without having to ask.
There’s no need to completely restyle (or remodel) your home before the holidays. A quick seasonal refresh can make a big difference: Swap out throw pillows, layer in a chunky knit blanket or add a fresh wreath to your front door. Even a simple bowl of citrus or pinecones on the table can create a festive mood without clutter. Focus on texture, color and greenery to bring a subtle, organic sense of the season into your space.
Take the Celebration
One of the joys of living in Corpus Christi is that winter weather can be delightfully mild, which makes alfresco entertaining perfect for the season. My family loves to gather on the deck for a Christmas Day shrimp and crab boil (we do our traditional meal on Christmas Eve). If you’re hosting outdoors, just be ready for a cold front to roll through, and always have a backup plan, whether that’s moving the party inside or setting up a covered area to shield guests from wind or drizzle.
To make your outdoor space feel just as cozy as the inside, focus on lighting and warmth. String bistro lights across your patio or fence for an instant sense of ambiance, and place soft blankets over the backs of chairs so guests can wrap up if it gets chilly. If you have a fire pit or space heater, even better. The key is making the space feel intentional and inviting—like a second living room under the stars.
Here’s a tip I’ve learned from vacation rental prep: Clean with fresh eyes. Guests will notice clean baseboards, shiny faucets and sparkling windows. Wipe down high-touch spots like doorknobs and light switches, and do a quick declutter in shared spaces. You don’t have to be spotless, but a clean, well-tended home sends a quiet message of care.
When hosting a crowd, think about how people will move through your home. If the kitchen is your main hangout zone, remove anything that blocks flow or creates bottlenecks. Set up stations for drinks, snacks or desserts in separate areas to spread people out and keep things
moving. This makes your space feel more spacious and allows everyone to connect more comfortably.
I always love weaving in little nods to our region when hosting. Try setting out locally brewed beer or sparkling water, BBQ rubs or salsas from a South Texas maker or handmade soaps from a Corpus Christi artisan. It’s a fun way to make your guests feel more connected to the place you call home.
At the heart of great hosting is intentionality. Your home doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to feel open. A genuine smile, a place at the table and the sincere invitation to “make yourself at home” matter far more than spotless floors or perfectly folded napkins. Guests will remember how welcome they felt, not whether the pie crust was homemade. With a few thoughtful touches, your guests will carry the warmth of your home long after the holiday lights come down.
By Justin Butts
Asters are superstars in Coastal Bend gardens. These easy-to-grow native perennials produce dense mounds of gorgeous purple flowers with yellow centers, atop stiff green stalks.
The name aster is derived from the Greek word for star. In the Greek myth, the goddess Astraea rose to the heavens to become the constellation Virgo. Her sadness in the empty darkness caused her tears to fall to earth as aster flowers.
Asters, with their delicate purple blooms, hold a rich history. Native Americans used them extensively for herbal medicine, and they experienced a surge in popularity in Victorian gardens, frequently appearing in artwork of that period. These plants are indigenous to the prairies of Central and South Texas, and can now be found growing profusely along Texas Hill Country roadsides during both spring and fall.
Fall asters offer a dual benefit to your garden: Their nectar attracts bees, and their dropped seeds provide food for birds. Growing in dense mounds, they create a natural habitat, drawing in beneficial predators like frogs, toads, ladybugs and lacewings that help control garden pests.
Asters go well with mistflower, Texas mountain laurel and plumbago. These blue flowers have similar watering requirements, which prevents overwatering.
As cut flowers, asters can last up to a week in a vase; however, refrigeration is not recommended. Snip near the base of the stem for ideal arrangements.
GARDENER'S NOTES
Spacing, 12” to 18”. Height, 12” to 36”. Plant from transplant in full sun; tolerates some evening shade. Does well in sandy loam soil. Soil must be very welldrained; avoid clay-rich soil. Add several inches organic compost and two cups pastured poultry manure per plant when planting and again each spring. Water regularly until established. Droughttolerant; do not overwater. Plant near other droughttolerant plants. Mulch with native leaves. No pests.
Asters propagate via stolons, which are horizontal stems that grow from existing plants and root to form new ones. Healthy asters can quickly form a dense ground cover. In the spring, transplant asters to new locations by using a shovel to cut new stolons. To encourage growth, take cuttings frequently, up to 50% of the existing flowers. After the first frost, cut all flowers back close to the ground to stimulate spring growth.
For centuries, Native American tribes made use of native aster varieties in herbal medicine. The Cherokee, for instance, brewed aster-infused tea to alleviate fevers. The Iroquois prepared a similar tea, combining asters with bloodroot, to serve as a laxative. Various tribes also created aster poultices to treat wounds and skin irritations like poison ivy. The Potawatomi used burning asters to revive unconscious individuals, while the Chippewa burned aster roots to attract game during hunts.
legacy built largely on smoke and lasting principles, no one does barbecue quite like South Texas. Here in the Coastal Bend, generations of pitmasters have honed their craft, blending regional styles and cherished family recipes. From Howard’s, a 76-year-old institution still serving brisket with the same simple rub that started it all, to newer spots redefining the scene with creative twists—and everything in between—there is no shortage of flavor to be found.
Though local barbecue joints might differ in technique or menu items, a dedication and genuine love for feeding the masses as if they’re family is evident when speaking to each. This feature takes readers on a taste-testing adventure through the area’s top spots, from Butter’s in Sinton to Stevie Lew’s in Rockport. Plus, we’re finally unveiling the results from the Battle for the Best BBQ online competition, where readers weighed in on who they think serves up the best ’cue around.
1002 ANTELOPE STREET
Pitmaster Chris DeAlejandro
Favorite Side Potato Salad & Coleslaw
Top Seller Brisket & Sausage
s its motto so eloquently puts it, Howard’s BBQ has spent 76 years “serving the food Texans want to eat.” This family-owned and operated restaurant credits its longevity to its simple spice rub, mesquite wood pits and a heaping dose of Southern hospitality. Owned by Jim Mathews, apprentice and dear friend of original owner Norman Howard, the restaurant’s techniques and homegrown, homestyle barbecue methods remain unchanged since Howard’s opening day back in 1949. The restaurant—an old garage turned barbecue haven decked out in full Southern kitsch and wooden fixings—opens weekdays for lunch. Sitting right on the edge of downtown, Howard’s often sees workers on their lunch breaks, blue and white collared alike. Besides the smoked meats, of which brisket and sausage sell best,
The Best BARBECUE in the Coastal Bend
the specialty sides come straight out of personal family recipe books. “My wife makes our carrot cake daily, and it’s an old family recipe from Meridian, Mississippi, over 100 years old," said Mathews’s son-in-law and right-hand man, Tom Messner.
You can’t find these flavors anywhere else. Come in for all the fixings: on a platter, in a wrap or most recently, in a Chipotle-style mixed bowl. Whether a worker rushing through a 30-minute lunch break or a full-sized family making a stop between errands, the Howard’s way guarantees every order comes with the same amount of heart and commitment to quality.
Pitmaster Mike Cotten
Favorite Side Beans & Potato Salad
Top Seller Brisket
arbecue runs in Mike Cotten’s blood. His grandfather, Joe Cotten, opened the family’s first pit in 1947, building notoriety through word of mouth and delicious brisket. Throughout the history of the Cotten barbecue, celebrities, athletes and even presidents made the pilgrimage to Robstown for a slice of brisket. “He was the Aaron Franklin of the ’80s and ’90s,” Mike said of his grandfather, who was a regular fixture in Texas Monthly.
With such a legacy to uphold, Mike started at a young age. From bussing tables at age 7 to working catering jobs as he grew older, he always knew he would carry the torch. After earning a degree in restaurant management from Texas Tech, he stepped into the roles of running the business and pitmaster. Today, the restaurant operates with two massive Primitive Pits offset smokers, fueled by post oak hauled in from Central Texas. The switch from mesquite came two years ago, and Mike swears by the way it elevates flavor.
The menu is traditional and pure to the art of barbecue: Brisket by the pound, ribs, turkey, chicken and a pork sausage, whose recipe is a familykept secret, that is Cotten’s personal
favorite. Brisket is still the magnum opus of the menu, with 35-40 smoked daily during the week and up to 60 on weekends, but Cotten admitted the ribs are the crowd-pleaser.
However, no meal is complete without sides. Mike Cotten’s features scratch-made sides such as mac and cheese and coleslaw, but his favorites are the beans and potato salad.
When you come to try some of Cotten's magic, you will experience a form of barbecue where quality is tied to honoring tradition, as passed down from his grandfather’s lessons.
Pitmaster Cosam J. Jaramillo
Top Seller Brisket
arrett’s Barbecue was built on more than smoke and spice and everything nice. What began as a deep appreciation for slow-cooked and flavorful meats led to piqued curiosity, then to a passion for discovering the rich history and cultural significance of barbecue. Garrett’s is a restaurant, sure, but at the heart of its name is a memorial to a friend whom the team will forever keep in their hearts.
At the helm is pitmaster Cosam E. Jaramillo. Jaramillo is a family man, a professional boxer and a lifelong advocate for providing people with good food. As a kid, he watched his parents cook for those in need after Sunday church. That early example of food as service still fuels his work today.
The menu stays intentionally small. Garrett’s Barbecue focuses on perfection among a small array of items to serve its customers best. The restaurant does not aim for quantity, but rather to make each dish reflect a belief that barbecue is both an art form and a way to connect people. Brisket leads as the top seller, smoked over mesquite to build a bold flavor and signature smoke ring. Another standout item is a combination of brisket and sausage sandwiches. The popular menu item encapsulates Garrett’s approach: simple, balanced and made with care.
The Best BARBECUE in the Coastal Bend
4701 IH 37 ACCESS ROAD
Pitmaster Julie Gonzalez
Top Seller Sausage & Mollejas
r. G’s BBQ has been part of the Corpus Christi community for 14 years, but its roots stretch back to an unexpected moment. When Joe Cotten’s Barbecue in Robstown burned down, Mr. G was neighbors with one of the managers and saw several skilled pitmen suddenly out of work. He opened his building to them, and from their guidance, a new barbecue tradition was born. A simple initiative to assist friends has transformed into a lasting legacy, now carried forward by his daughter, Julie Gonzalez.
Gonzalez learned barbecue the hard way, working her way up from dishes to mastering the pits. Today, she’s the pitmaster at Mr. G’s, known for in-house sausage making and a specialty that keeps customers coming back: mollejas. Smoked long and slow over raw mesquite, her brisket, sausages and mollejas represent the heart of South Texas barbecue.
The menu reflects tradition while also bringing in unique flavors, from brisket sausage and jalapeño habanero sausage to one-of-a-kind brisket enchiladas. For locals, Mr. G’s is a gathering place shaped by history, family legacy and the kind of cooking that can only come from passion.
Pitmaster Will Starns Favorite Side Pinto Beans
hat started as a passion for home brewing between friends has grown into one of Corpus Christi’s most popular breweries, and later, a brewery-barbecue hybrid. Co-owners Cale Moore and Brandon Harper first dreamed of opening a brewery back in 2010, but it wasn’t
until 2017 that the timing felt right. By 2019, Nueces Brewing opened its doors with the intention of being a beer factory. Then came COVID, and with new restrictions, food became essential.
Harper had a smoker and a few utensils, so they added barbecue to the mix, and the pairing stuck. Today, it’s hard to imagine Nueces without the smoke drifting out of the pits.
The barbecue here is rooted in simplicity that lets the meat shine. Smoked low and slow over post oak in a 1,000-gallon offset pit, brisket spends close to 20 hours on the pit with just salt and pepper, creating a rich, classic bark.
Pit duties are handled daily by Will Starns, with Harper lending his barbecue know-how along the way. While brisket is the star, ribs and turkey have also built a following, and the menu shines with unique favorites like brisket nachos piled high with beans, rice, pico and diners’ choice of meat, over tortilla chips. With its balance of bold beer and soulful barbecue, Nueces Brewing is a staple downtown for locals and visitors.
601 N. CHAPARRAL STREET
Pitmaster David Muñoz
Top Seller Brisket
OPE BBQ & Grill was born out of a love for barbecue that David Muñoz shared with his father. When a family pit came into his hands in 2019, Muñoz decided to take barbecue more seriously, refining his skills until he was ready to compete. His barbecue has since earned multiple awards between 2021 and 2025, from first-place wins at the Nueces Brewing Fajita Competition and the Buc Days BBQ Cookoff to a top-10 finish at the Weenie Dog Race World Championships in Buda, Texas. What started as backyard cookouts quickly grew into a venture that friends, family and eventually the community rallied behind.
Now, Muñoz and his business partners, Edward Luna and Ricky Medina, have opened DOPE BBQ inside Pop’s Bar downtown. Known for bold, flavor-packed barbecue smoked with mesquite wood, the
menu centers around Muñoz’s awardwinning brisket and expands to include ribs, chicken, turkey, sausage and pulled pork.
With a foundation in competition barbecue and a passion for community, DOPE BBQ serves up a variety of premium cuts with the flair and tenacity of a competitor always looking to improve. DOPE BBQ is finally adding sides to its menu now that they have a permanent location. "We’ve been incorporating traditional barbecue staples, and I’m excited to see which ones become customer favorites," Muñoz shared.
5340 TX-35, ROCKPORT
Pitmaster Matt Meinhausen Favorite Side Potato Salad
tevie Lew’s BBQ Kitchen is a family-built legacy (you might be noticing a trend here). The late Stevie Lew Meinhausen built the Rockport joint not to chase scale or profit, but to create something his family could sustain together. After decades of running a sprawling coffeehouse business in Arizona, he wanted the opposite: a slower rhythm, a smaller team and a place where the focus stayed on people, not payroll.
For nearly 20 years, that spirit of balance and togetherness defined the restaurant. Stevie’s greatest loves were his family and his faith, and the smokehouse quickly became a reflection of both an easygoing place that welcomed neighbors and friends with warmth and purpose.
Today, that legacy lives on. Meinhausen’s family continues to carry on the work he began, with his eldest son, Matt, assuming the role of pitmaster. The homemade smoker, once checked through the night, has given way to a wood-fired rotisserie pit, fueled exclusively by oak. Brisket leads the menu, followed closely by Matt’s in-house sausages and fall-offthe-bone spare ribs, while the redskin potato salad remains a perennial favorite.
At Stevie Lew’s, legacy is the secret ingredient. The smoke carries memory, the recipes carry history and every meal is a continuation of a dream Stevie started and one his family will keep alive.
In preparation for this issue, we reached out to our readers to help us choose the ultimate barbecue joint in the Coastal Bend. We hosted a competition on our website and social media pages where readers submitted their favorite barbecue spots. The top entries were placed into a 16-team singleelimination bracket and seeded accordingly. After an exciting competition, we arrived at one mighty victor.
411 TAYLOR STREET
Pitmaster Desirae Hill
Favorite Side Mac N Cheese
red from sweat, smoke and a 120-degree pit room, Full Send BBQ has been flooring the gas pedal since inception. “Full Send” means all gas, no brakes, and that’s exactly how this team approaches the craft.
Andrew Peña began selling brisket orders on Facebook, then met and teamed up with Desirae Hill. They brought their love for good food and feeding people to Vernon’s to sell smoked birria tacos with consommé. As a former bartender at Vernon’s, Hill knew the locals, and with her rapport, word spread about Full Send’s food quickly. With the help of a friendturned-investor, Hank Harrison, who saw the vision after just one bite, Full Send graduated to a permanent location in 2023.
Today, Hill runs the operation in Downtown Corpus Christi, with a 250-gallon offset smoker named “OG” fired by mesquite wood. Brisket remains the top seller, and the seasoning mix of salt, pepper and garlic is the perfect example of mastering fundamentals. The sausage—which has Oaxaca cheese and green chile inclusions—is a killer contribution from local meat market Boarri. The constant fan favorite, though, is the brisket mac and cheese bowl topped with house-made pickles and sauce. Aside from the bread, everything on the menu, down to the accoutrements, is housemade, and you can tell with every bite. At Full Send, the barbecue may be slowcooked, but the lifestyle is full throttle, giving 110% to the art of barbecue.
713 E. SINTON STREET, SINTON
Pitmaster Andrew Soto Favorite Side Elote
inton’s freshly famous Butter’s BBQ has earned quite a reputation for itself in less than a decade of operation.
From persevering through a global pandemic to making the Texas Monthly yearly Top 50 Best BBQ list on two separate occasions, Andrew Soto’s tumultuous journey with his barbecue baby carries with it a lot of love. Love that finds itself burrowed beneath the bark of the state-famous brisket. Those lucky enough to find themselves with any of Butter’s specialties in hand will surely agree with its first-place ranking on our list, according to our online competition, Battle for the Best BBQ (full bracket results on page 38).
The idea of opening Butter’s— whose name is pulled from Soto’s childhood nickname, Butterball— brewed over 2017 after a visit to another Texas classic, Franklin’s BBQ. Waiting in the line snaking around the block proved more than worth it after his full platter, smoked to perfection, showed Soto how “barbecue could be the best kind of food in the world.”
Bringing the post oak smoke down from Central Texas pits to mix in alongside the TexMex flavors he grew up with, Butter’s signature meats and sides give us a new definition of South Texas barbecue—one serving barbacoa on Sunday mornings, at his father’s request and to much delight from his loyal customers.
Pitmaster David Page
Favorite Side Baked Tater Salad Top Seller Brisket & Smoked Chicken
ince opening in 2013, Hoegemeyer’s Barbeque Barn has become a cornerstone of Corpus Christi barbecue, but its story stretches far deeper. Pitmaster David Page has been in the barbecue business since the 1980s, and he chose the Hoegemeyer name to honor his German heritage and the roots of Texas barbecue itself. German settlers were among the first to smoke meat in Texas, turning necessity into tradition, and that influence still guides the menu today.
The restaurant is housed in a building believed to be nearly a century old, a piece of the city’s history that once tied it to the train depot next door. Inside, mesquite smoke perfumes choice Angus brisket, three
styles of ribs and smoked chicken that’s marinated so the flavor runs all the way to the bone.
Brisket cooks overnight for about 14 hours, while ribs and chicken are smoked for three hours, ensuring tenderness without losing depth of flavor. This expertly cooked meat can be ordered as an entrée, by the pound or stacked high in one of the creative sammiches. With its mix of slowsmoked classics and a historic setting, Hoegemeyer’s delivers a barbecue experience rooted in tradition and unmistakably tied to Corpus Christi.
4931 I-37
Pitmaster Adan Gonzalez
Favorite Side Potato Salad & Coleslaw
Top Seller Brisket
hen Alabamian-turned-Corpus local Malcolm DeShields Sr. decided to build his own barbecue joint, he just wanted a nice place for a cold beer and some slow-smoked beef brisket. Now approaching its 50th anniversary, The Bar-B-Q Man Restaurant credits its success to the DeShields family's commitment to quality in both barbecue and customer service, starting with Malcolm’s original neighborly intentions all the way to the warm welcome current guests receive on a daily basis.
The Man serves old-school smoked meats, plus all the classic homemade fixings and desserts, to workers and locals of all backgrounds in the heart of Corpus Christi’s industry-driven westside, with help from current pitmaster Adan Gonzalez.
Still family-owned and operated, current general manager Matthew DeShields took over the main duties at his father’s request in 2023. Matthew, like his grandfather, values customer service because, as he explained, “One day we might be the best, tomorrow it could be someone else,” but what brings people back is good service. Whether you’re a seasoned regular or a first-timer, expect every visit to this local icon to feel like a Southern grandpa’s weekend cookout.
By Evelyn Martinez Photo by Jason Page
When it comes to authentic South Texas barbecue, local legend Howard’s BBQ proved its worth decades before many of its contemporaries even began to settle within the scene. In a city packed with memories of restaurants that have come and gone, to boast of a milestone like 75 years in the industry makes anyone a star. So, what’s Howard’s secret?
“Staying family-focused, community-oriented and having great food,” answered Tom Messner, owner Jim Mathews’ son-in-law and right-hand man. Working in the restaurant since the early 2000s, and as a devoted barbecue man himself, Messner carries with him the same customerdriven spirit ingrained within Howard’s since its opening day.
Amid changing locations, new owners and the turning tides of history within the city, Howard’s never cut corners on its high-quality smoked meats and homemade Southern sides. The place continues to stay beloved and busy, and the whole Howard’s team agrees that the secret to their success lies within their dedication to the customer.
Treating every guest like family pays off in a tight-knit city like Corpus, and the love for locals extends beyond just top-notch service. Though the restaurant life comes with its challenges—most recently, the loss of mentor and previous owner Norman Howard earlier this year—Messner and his son Henry plan to preserve the heart that makes Howard’s so special.
Mr. Howard, as affectionately called by both Messners, worked alongside his father, eventually buying the restaurant from him in the early ’60s
and serving as the big boss before moving over to Antelope Street. An old car garage turned barbecue temple, here remains Howard’s to this day, and Norman regularly visited the restaurant before his passing.
“There’s something about barbecue [that makes us all] feel like family,” Messner explained. “I don’t know if [Norman] ever actually ate a hot meal; people would always come up and talk to him [before he could take a bite].”
From the delectable sides, like fan-favorites apple coleslaw and butter beans, to the juicy, tender variety of meats cooked to consistent perfection by pitmaster Chris DeAlejandro, “strictly homemade” describes all of Howard’s offerings. Even the carrot cake, made daily by Tom’s wife GiGi, comes from a recipe over 100 years old.
While it would be easy to credit its success to the perfectly black-barked, pink-ringed brisket, the stellar customer service is what transforms firsttimers into Howard’s regulars before they’ve even decided on a booth or table.
“[Our regulars] have been coming to us for years and years,” said Tom. “For several families, we’ve [catered] a birthday for a 1-year-old, and then we’d do their high school graduation, college graduation and a wedding. It’s incredible to see that.”
Jim, Tom and the whole of Howard’s plan to continue the barbecue legacy well into the future. Henry, just like his grandfather, grew up working events and smoking briskets alongside his father. He sees himself at the helm of it all, too—but until then, Jim and Tom promise to keep the king’s seat warm for him.
4522 WEBER ROAD #102
Pitmaster William Sissamis
Favorite Side Loaded Green Beans
Top Seller Big Salty Sandwich
ince opening in the mid-2000s, Silverado Smokehouse has built a loyal following as one of Corpus Christi’s go-to spots for Texas barbecue. Owner William Sissamis set out to bring authentic Central Texas-style cooking to the Coastal Bend, and nearly two decades later, the restaurant remains a local favorite.
Silverado has collected several "Best Bar-B-Que" honors from the Caller Times, along with accolades for its ribs, a testament to the consistency that keeps customers coming back.
Silverado stays true to tradition with meats smoked over hickory wood, a method that infuses every cut with a rich, distinctive flavor. The menu features the classics—brisket, ribs, sausage, pulled pork, turkey and chicken—along with hearty sides like potato salad, cole slaw and beans. Brisket is a star here, but the generous three-meat plates and signature Big Salty Sandwich have also become customer favorites. Silverado Smokehouse is the kind of place where portions are large, flavors are bold and the style is unapologetically Texan. For locals, it’s a place to gather around familiar plates, and for visitors, it’s a true taste of Corpus Christi barbecue tradition.
Pitmaster Chris Collins
Favorite Side Jalapeño Cream Corn
t its core, MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen is a continuation of the legacy shared by the Owens and Collins families. When the opportunity arose to expand their restaurant group in 2015, they stumbled upon a property with an Ole Hickory pit already in place. At the time, they had been catering barbecue
The Best BARBECUE in the Coastal Bend
around town, and the opportunity that presented itself seemed like a sign to go all in.
At the center of it all is pitmaster and Director of Operations Chris Collins. After years in the restaurant industry, Collins found a new purpose in barbecue while rebuilding his life. Initially a backyard experiment, the art of barbecue became a calling.
He drew inspiration from Franklin Barbecue: A Meat Smokin’ Manifesto, by Aaron Franklin and Jordan Mackay, and experimenting with barbecue became a form of therapy as Collins found his rhythm and flavor while pouring himself into the pits.
Many of the recipes that now anchor MacDaddy’s menu were perfected in the family kitchen and now hit the restaurant tables for lucky patrons. The walls, lined with family photos, remind guests that when you’re here, you’re receiving an open invitation to eat at the family table.
Today, MacDaddy’s offers barbecue to the Port Aransas area, where options are limited, and is known for its tender brisket, loaded BBQ nachos, house sauce with plenty of its own positive Google reviews and jalapeño cream corn that regulars swear by.
Pitmaster Joe Garcia Favorite Side Mexican Spaghetti Top Seller The Notorious B.I.P.
othing feels better than being in on a city’s little secret, and anyone walking into certified hole-in-the-wall barbecue spot Topsy Krett BBQ can officially consider themselves in the colloquial “know.” This mom-and-pop barbecue restaurant, started by Joe Garcia and a troop of his family and friends, sells out every working day. The local love means a line of eager eaters waits outside the doors daily, all for a chance to taste the mesquite-smoked meats in the many distinctive forms they take here.
Years of success in the local competitive barbecue game means Garcia prioritizes both his honedin barbecue style and the value of a fine presentation. Known for its
sandwiches, bowls and a secret menu for those even more in the know, Topsy Krett arranges its meat options as beautifully as they taste.
Besides the classic beans and potato salad, the Garcias keep true to their South Texan traditions with specialty sides like Mexican spaghetti. Expanding from weekend hours to Wednesday through Sunday to satisfy demand, Garcia assures everyone that his daily servings will always reach his high standards of quality— whether sold to a worker on his lunch break, a student looking for a cheap meal or a seasoned barbecue veteran coming in to satisfy his FOMO.
4354 S. ALAMEDA STREET
Pitmaster Jerry Martinez Favorite Side Potato Salad
nly minutes after it opens for the day, the many regulars at Mac’s Barbecue #Fore start making their way down to the order counter. Longtime employees begin preparing customers’ orders as owner and resident pitmaster Jerry Martinez greets everyone by name. He seized the opportunity to run Mac’s fourth iteration when it opened on Alameda in the early 2000s, and this location of the restaurant became its sole survivor, so Martinez was left with a legacy to uphold.
Now decades into the barbecue business, Martinez considers himself one of the few whose wits can withstand such a career—and his have not found their end quite yet. Built with his love of golf in mind, Martinez’s version of the restaurant bears a “Fore!” in its title, a golf tee snuck into the logo and a variety of golf-themed food items.
Mac’s attention to detail ranges from the precise cook time for its famed juicy turkey breasts to the cleanliness of the restaurant itself. Martinez ensures three key aspects are at their utmost quality every day: his restaurant, his food and his customer service. As a crew, Mac’s satisfies every barbecue need one might have, whether it’s flavorful food with all the fixings or a casual chitchat with an old friend.
the coastal bend is fortunate to have so many entrepreneurs and business professionals whose talent, expertise and creativity have a positive impact on our communities and make this region an excellent place to live. The Bend magazine invites you to meet some of the faces behind our most prominent local businesses. they are leaders in their field; they are game-changers; they are the faces of the coastal bend.
Kleberg Bank is an independent community bank. Since its beginning, Kleberg Bank has been built on a foundation of integrity, dedication to the community and excellence in convenience, service and value. Robert Justus Kleberg, son-in-law of Captain and Mrs. Richard King, and manager of the King Ranch, established the bank in 1905 “to help those who showed the spirit of cooperation in community building,” a commitment that continues to withstand the test of time. Home to the next generation of homegrown bankers, Kleberg Bank leverages exceptional technology to help your business grow. Kleberg Bank’s deep roots provide its bankers with a unique understanding and dedication to the people and culture of South Texas. Kleberg Bank always puts people first, nurturing a collaborative approach to managing the evolving financial needs of your business for a banking experience that never grows old. Member FDIC.
Since 1967, TC Auto Service has proudly served the Coastal Bend as a local, family-owned business. Just a few years later, Romay’s Auto Service joined the family— further extending our commitment to honest, reliable car care across the community.
For decades, both locations have shared one mission: to provide every customer with the highest level of service possible, every time.
Our success is a blessing we attribute first and foremost to God, and to the generations of loyal families who have supported us throughout the years. We’re honored to have become a trusted name in car care, thanks to the unwavering loyalty of our customers.
At both TC Auto Service and Romay’s Auto Service, we believe in educating our customers about their vehicle needs. When you understand what your car requires and
why, you’re empowered to make the best decision for both your vehicle and your budget.
Our team of highly trained master technicians—bringing over 55 years of combined experience—treats every vehicle with the care and integrity it deserves. Our goal is to give you peace of mind from the moment you walk through our doors.
Thanks to the incredible support from our community, we’ve been voted Best Auto Repair Shop for over 25 years. We are deeply grateful for the continued trust you’ve placed in us.
From our family to yours, thank you for choosing TC Auto Service and Romay’s Auto Service. It is our honor to serve you and represent the hardworking spirit of the Coastal Bend.
Dr. Davin Cordell joined the Coastal Bend community eight years ago with his wife, Oriana, and daughter, Bella, one week before Hurricane Harvey arrived. He came to join the Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi as an orthopaedic spine surgeon. Cordell completed an advanced fellowship in adult and pediatric spine surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon, he was a physical therapist. This background gives him a broad approach to the diagnosis and management of spine-related problems. He uses endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques with focus on motion preservation as well as traditional open surgeries to achieve the most predictable and reliable results. Cordell believes in performing the least amount of surgery necessary to fix the problem.
He jokes with a mentor that he thinks about spines 90 percent of the time, but what he really enjoys is spending time with his family around the house and at favorite local spots.
“We have loved becoming a part of the Coastal Bend community and look forward to many more years to come,” he said. “We have found our home. Thank you for having us."
portrait by shoocha photography
The Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi
The Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi has been a trusted name in orthopaedics and sports medicine in the Coastal Bend for over 30 years. The success of the practice has been made through the partnership of well-respected, like-minded physicians who all share a vision for providing the highest quality orthopaedic, medical and surgical care to the Coastal Bend and South Texas communities. The physicians at the Orthopaedic Center actively serve as the orthopaedic team physicians for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M University-Kingsville Javelinas, the Corpus Christi Hooks and the Corpus Christi Ice Rays. In addition, they care
for young athletes from many local middle schools, high schools and select teams. These physicians believe that no matter what your sport or skill level, the goal remains the same: to get you back to the most elite playing level with focused care and minimally invasive surgical procedures. Their sports medicine team of orthopaedic surgeons who care for collegiate and professional athletes are the same doctors who take care of your athlete.
The Orthopaedic Center’s surgeons and clinical staff pride themselves on comprehensive, patient-centered care and the treatment of musculoskeletal and sports medicine injuries.
For 32 years, Niko Sissamis has exceeded steak and seafood lovers’ expectations. Niko’s Steakhouse offers an extensive and assorted menu in a casual, elegant atmosphere. Niko is a third-generation restaurant owner in the Coastal Bend and is passionate about offering great food. His family has been in the restaurant business for over 85 years from Diners in the 1930s to his present-day Award-Winning Steakhouses. Niko’s Steakhouse has won “Best of the Best Awards” for: Best Steakhouse, Best Steak, Best New Restaurant, Best All Around Restaurant, Fine Dining, Dining Experience, Best Diner, Romantic Restaurant, Business Lunch, Best Restaurant to Impress, Best Seafood, Fish Tacos, Chicken Fried Steak, Best Bar & Grill, Best Happy Hour, Best Margaritas, Beer Selection, Wine Selection. It has been featured numerous times in Texas Monthly and is proud to have won Local's List Poll for “Best Steak” five times in The Bend
361.992.2333 • nikossteakhouse.com • 5409 Saratoga BlvD. CORPUS CHRISTI
portrait by raymond gray
Zoe Gottlich
Zoe Gottlich has over $265 million in sales in her 20-year real estate career. She has been the number one top producer for the last 16 consecutive years at Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel Realtors®, and has been awarded the prestigious President's Elite award, which is the top 5% Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. She is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and holds a bachelor’s degree in economics. Gottlich and her husband, Mark, are third generation Corpus Christians. Their daughter, Cecile, is the owner and principal designer of Studio Cecile based in Austin. Their son, Grier, and his wife, Paige, live in Corpus Christi. Grier is also a Realtor® with CBPS and owner of Noble Home Renovations.
Market knowledge, skilled negotiation, problem solving, creative marketing and listening to client needs, combined with a trustworthy, honest and enthusiastic attitude, are the key ingredients to her ongoing success. Zoe is passionate about her profession and whether it is a small home or million-dollar estate, she finds it extremely rewarding to help people realize their dream of buying or selling a home in the Coastal Bend.
portrait by raymond gray
Protecting Your Legacy for Over 40 Years
As South Texas grows older and families seek clarity in uncertain times, Baker & Baker remains the Coastal Bend’s trusted authority in elder law and estate planning. For more than four decades, the Bakers have guided generations through life’s most important transitions, offering skilled counsel in wills, trusts, guardianships, probate, and Medicaid planning to help families protect what they’ve built.
Since joining the firm in 2020, Charles Baker has continued the family’s legacy, blending modern insight with the firm’s long-standing tradition of
care. Together, the Bakers provide personalized legal guidance with the depth, compassion, and integrity only a family-run practice can offer.
Rooted in integrity and service to others, Baker & Baker is dedicated to helping Coastal Bend families prepare wisely, preserve their assets, and achieve lasting peace of mind for the years ahead. 5350
If home building, business expansion, or property refinancing is on your horizon, First Community Bank can help make your vision a reality. For over 40 years, these professionals have guided thousands of Coastal Bend neighbors and businesses through every stage of mortgage, construction, and commercial lending. Whether you’re building a new home, developing investment property, or financing your next business project, FCB delivers trusted expertise and local decision-making that keeps progress moving. With approvals made right here at home, your project can be under contract or construction that much faster.
First Community Bank has been the neighbor you can count on. First Community Bank is an equal opportunity housing lender and a Member of FDIC. NMLS #458782
Back Row (left to right)
Nick Black NMLS# 689770
Matt Moore NMLS# 1693403
Joe Ingle NMLS# 745050
Karen Stipp NMLS# 489383
Dan Herrington NMLS# 562367
Matt Martini NMLS# 1695013
Bottom Row (left to right)
Amy Atkins NMLS# 745049
Rose Zapata NMLS# 1472230
Susan Geissel NMLS# 512560
Renee Carter NMLS# 745051
Edward Jones
For over 100 years, Edward Jones has worked to create a better future for our clients and their families and communities, one relationship at a time.
Our advice is based on a disciplined, established process that centers on our clients, who are individual investors, and the goals they're trying to achieve.
Each client benefits from a personalized relationship with their financial advisor, who is supported by the resources of a Fortune 500 firm.
Every aspect of the firm’s business – from the types of products and services we offer to the locations of our branch offices – is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work.
This business model has helped fuel remarkable growth for the firm and helped clients realize the possibilities for their futures.
Edward Jones employs 55,000 people, including more than 20,000 dedicated and passionate financial advisors to serve, educate and support more than 9 million clients in achieving what matters most to them.
We partner for positive impact to improve the lives of our clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society.
Member SPIC. The content of this article is sponsored by Edward Jones.
Dr. Connor Armstrong
With a commitment to helping patients get back on their feet faster, Dr. Connor Armstrong brings both advanced skill and genuine compassion to every case. A fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction, Dr. Armstrong focuses on minimally invasive hip and knee replacement—helping patients return to the activities they love with less pain and faster recovery.
His path to medicine is as impressive as his care for patients. After graduating cum laude in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University, Dr. Armstrong went on to earn his medical degree from the University of Texas Health San Antonio, where he ranked in the top quartile of his class. He continued his orthopaedic surgery residency at UT Health San Antonio before completing his fellowship training in adult reconstruction at Emory University School of Medicine. Patients trust his expertise and dedication to innovative approaches that focus on reducing recovery times, minimizing pain, and restoring mobility.
5917 crosstown expressway sh 286, corpus christi 361.854.0811 • Southtexasboneandjoint.com
Face of
DR. JUSTIN Klimisch
Dr. Justin Klimisch earned his doctorate from The University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine (UTMB) and continued with his internship and residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at UTMB. He completed an accredited fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Before becoming a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, he served in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division. As a consulting physician, Dr. Klimisch specializes in computer-navigated and robotic surgery, using state-ofthe-art technological advances, and trains other surgeons from around the nation in the latest evidence-based hip and knee surgery techniques. He is also an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, Texas Medical Association and Nueces County Medical Society.
Gignac Architects has served Texas with architectural, interior, landscape design and construction management services since 1988, when it was established by Raymond Gignac, AIA. Gignac Architects is a full-service firm providing planning expertise in educational, institutional, municipal and private commercial work with an emphasis on quality design.
Today, led by Raymond and Nick Gignac, with 25 employees in three offices, the multigenerational firm is family-run and looking toward the future. The firm has designed many of the iconic buildings around the community, such as the American Bank Center and the new Mary Carroll High School. Altogether, Gignac Architects has completed 22 projects for CCISD and multiple projects for the City of Corpus Christi, the Regional Transportation Authority and the City of Portland. The firm is now excited and preparing to welcome its new Hamlin Middle School project to our community.
Established in 2007, Chic to Chic New Home Furnishings is your local alternative to traditional furniture stores. The owners and staff have a passion for sophisticated, quality, on-trend furnishings at an affordable price, in an unpretentious atmosphere. Unearthing new trends means curating pieces from around the world that have a story to tell — pieces that provide a focal point, pull a room together and spark a conversation. At Chic to Chic, it’s about you and your family, your personality and your budget, which is why we offer in-stock and custom options across a variety of price points. While you can purchase right off the floor, the store also specializes in tailoring its extensive line to your needs. Customers will especially love the one-of-a-kind finds and wall art, exclusive throw pillows and carefully selected home accessories, lighting and rugs. Design consultations are also available from any of the designers on staff.
Managing Partner
Jimmy R. Rivera CLF, CLTC
senior Partner
Joseph “JP” Hernandez
Financial Services Professionals
Annie J. Castro, CLU, LUTCF, RICP, CLTC
Filemon “Phil” Esquivel, Jr.
Michele L. Guzman, RICP
Adriana Hipólito-Lamont, CLTC
Eddie Jackson, CLU, ChFC
Erica M. Maymi, RICP, CLTC
Brian Martinez, CLU
For over 180 years, New York Life Insurance has protected the future for generations of our clients and their loved ones. In 2024, New York Life was ranked the largest mutual life insurance company in the U.S.1, #78 on the prestigious Fortune 500 list, and has made over $32.56 million in charitable contributions on behalf of the New York Life Foundation to national and local nonprofit organizations. New York Life ranks #1 amongst all companies with qualifying agents of the Million Dollar Round Table, the Premier Association of Financial Professionals, a global recognition. Our South Texas
office has been serving our community since 1935. Many of our agents have local roots—some even go back generations. Reach out to one of our highly trained representatives locally that can help build and protect what’s most important to you, giving you peace of mind of a secure financial future.
1Based on revenue as reported by “Fortune 500 ranked within Industries, Insurance: Life, Health (Mutual),” Fortune magazine, 6/4/2024. For methodology, please see http://fortune.com/fortune500/.
American Bank has long been a trusted advisor in the Coastal Bend. Our Wealth Management team delivers customized solutions in investment, retirement, and estate planning, with a strong emphasis on preparation, communication, and exceeding client expectations.
Our services include: Trust and estate administration, Investment management, Oversight of real estate, oil & gas, and agricultural assets, No matter your needs, you can count on our team of experienced professionals to deliver personalized service and comprehensive wealth management solutions for where you want to go in life.
Discover the confidence that comes with a dedicated wealth management partner. Contact American Bank to begin the conversation.
Member FDIC
Wealth Services: Not a deposit | Not FDIC insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value
americanbank.com
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
Haley Bennett Senior Financial Planner • Steven Floyd Senior Fiduciary Officer & Specialty Assets Manager
Lauren Ranly Duke Senior Fiduciary Officer • Don Kingsbury Senior Managing Fiduciary Officer
Ellen Scott Senior Fiduciary Officer • Calvin McMann Fiduciary Administrator
Nancy Webster Junior Portfolio Manager & Certified Fraud Examiner
American Bank has a unique way of serving clients — and it all started when the doors first opened for business in 1970. Independent and locally owned, American Bank’s philosophy is simple: Build relationships with clients, exceed their expectations and provide appropriate products and services that make a difference. Their Private Banking Officers truly get to know clients in order to fully understand their business needs. American Bank has an entire team of financial professionals who provide tailored solutions for business banking, lending, wealth management and estate services throughout the Coastal Bend.
Member FDIC
Wealth Services: Not a deposit | Not FDIC insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value
americanbank.com
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
Haley Bennett Senior Financial Planner
Dillon McVay Loan & Private Banking Officer
Brett Pancamo Senior Commercial Lending Officer
Rose Royce Huegele Private Banking Manager & Senior Commercial Lending Officer
Cassy Fleming Senior Treasury Management Officer
John Norris, P.E. Senior Commercial Lending Officer & Petroleum Engineer
Michael Hoyt Commercial Lending and Private Banking Officer
At Allison Flooring America, a cherished family-owned business in the heart of our community, owners, Terry and Sandi Allison, take pride in providing not only the highest quality flooring solutions but also a legacy of expert service that spans generations. Proudly serving the Corpus Christi community for over 50 years, Allison Flooring America is your trusted local flooring store to guide you through every step of your flooring journey—from selection to installation. As they continue their legacy with their daughter, Jordan, joining the team, Allison Flooring America is designed to withstand the test of time.
As a family-owned business, Terry and Sandi’s family values of integrity, commitment, and service transcend the values of the Allison Flooring America team by adding a personal touch to every project and ensuring you receive not only exceptional products but also outstanding customer service. With an extensive selection of carpets, hardwood, vinyl and tile flooring catering to all styles, and a knowledgeable staff with over 200 years of combined experience, Allison Flooring America is committed to helping you find the perfect flooring for your home.
Visit Allison Flooring America and experience the warmth of a family business accompanied by unparalleled expertise and service.
Dr. Gabriel Lopez attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station as a pre-med student and then graduated from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School in 2000. He then completed his Anesthesia residency at Loma Linda Hospital in California in 2004 where he was Chief Resident. He then pursued a Pain Management Fellowship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Lopez is Board Certified in Pain Management.
He started his own practice, Corpus Christi Pain Medicine, in 2006 with just two staff members, and now has 16 full-time employees and a nurse practitioner. With the motto “Making Lives Better,” Dr. Lopez goes above and beyond to treat each patient’s individual pain.
Dr. Lopez’s vision for improving and expanding patient care includes the addition of his second OR surgical center, Southside Specialty Surgical Center, which opened in December 2019 on Holly Road. He strives to make it a world-class Ambulatory Surgical Center that is the premier choice for patients and surgeons for outpatient surgical services.
portrait by Raymond gray
Dr. Eubank’s gynecology practice and wellness treatment options focus on all facets of women’s health, as they are interrelated. He has run a private practice in Corpus Christi since 1983, and for the past 22 years, has dedicated his practice to focusing on women after the childbearing years. Dr. Eubank addresses women’s needs, such as menopausal hormone management with bio-identical hormone pellet therapy, and vaginal rejuvenation with ThermiVa, O-Shot and Emsella. These are revolutionary in-office treatments that can improve the negative effects of hormonal changes, bladder function, vaginal moisture and tightening and improve sexual health.
Dr. Eubank and Advanced Wellness & Rejuvenation are proud to have offered a medically supervised weight loss program for over 12 years that has helped over 2,300 men and women meet their weight loss goals and improve their health. This comprehensive, structured and medically supervised weight-loss program includes one-on-one visits to support patients as they solidify healthy eating habits to achieve long-term weight management and improved health.
Dr. Eubank is committed to helping women by offering safe and effective wellness services and treatment options in an effort to maintain and improve their gynecological, physical, sexual and emotional health and confidence.
Offering comprehensive weight loss services, vitamin injections and hormone pellet therapy in both their Corpus Christi and Portland offices.
In 2017, Dr. Sabeen Rani opened Rani Pediatrics. Every year since, it has been the top-rated pediatric clinic in Corpus Christi. Dr. Rani has also recently received the Corpus Christi Under 40 Award and was named a “Texas Rising Star” (as seen in Texas Monthly). Raised in Alice, Dr. Rani had always intended on making the Coastal Bend the focus of her future practice. After completing UT’s rigorous Plan II Honors program in three years, Dr. Rani graduated from UT Southwestern, one of the top medical schools in the country.
At the foundation of it all is a relentless commitment to excellence, cleanliness and technology as the foundation to a family-centered medical philosophy. Medicine is “art” as well as “science.” The zoo motif with life-sized animal statues outside and inside the practice has turned a trip to the doctor into a “trip to the zoo.” Rani Pediatrics is providing a pediatric experience the Coastal Bend deserves.
portrait by Raymond gray
The Face of Cosmetic Surgery
The Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center has become one of the top aesthetic surgery practices in the United States. Personalized care and creating beautiful, natural results are what boost both doctor and patient satisfaction. Dr. Rose has been named one of the Top 10 Plastic Surgeons in Texas by National Institute of Plastic Surgeons and the National Academy of Plastic Surgeons. Patients travel from all over the country to see Dr. Rose for their aesthetic surgery needs. He believes listening and understanding the patient’s goals is the cornerstone of any great result. Dr. Rose is an internationally recognized surgeon who has performed over 4,000 plastic and reconstructive surgeries and trained numerous surgeons around the world on three different continents. Corpus Christi is blessed to have Dr. Rose, his surgery center, and his philanthropic efforts.
Drew Becquet - State Farm agent
Since 1964, State Farm has been the number one home and auto insurance provider in America. At the Drew Becquet State Farm office, we pride ourselves on building meaningful, long-lasting relationships with our customers. As your family grows, we want to be there every step of the way to help you manage the risk of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize your dreams. We are passionate about our Corpus Christi community. Each catastrophic event is our opportunity to deliver on the promises we made to our policy holders to help them recover. We will continue to be the leader in insurance and financial services—and our customer’s needs will always determine our path. We’d love the opportunity to earn your business! agentdrewb.com • 361.854.4638
What sets Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi apart? For starters, we are the nation’s only university on its very own island — surrounded by the Gulf, powered by discovery, and fueled by opportunity. Here, students thrive under the guidance of awardwinning faculty, are supported by robust student services, and are connected to industry partners who open doors to careers in engineering, health care, finance, the arts, education, and beyond.
And while excellence defines us in the classroom, nothing ignites the Island spirit like Division I athletics. Since joining the Southland Conference, Islanders have claimed more than 60 championship titles, transforming every victory into a moment of pride that unites campus and community. Our Islanders Men’s and Women’s Basketball
teams, with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, continue to shine on the national stage.
This season brings even more excitement! Toyelle Wilson takes the helm of Women’s Basketball, bringing with her 110 career wins and five postseason appearances. On the men’s side, Jim Shaw returns for his third year after back-to-back 20-win seasons in his first two years, with a program record 21 regular-season wins in his debut year.
At the Island University, winning goes far beyond the scoreboard — it’s about passion, pride, and community. Shakas Up!
6300 Ocean Dr. Corpus Christi tamucc.edu • 361.825.8687
Beauty & the Bistro™ Catering has been serving the Coastal Bend area since 2001. It has built a reputation for stress-free events, and is easily identified by its themed events and cascading buffets. Beauty & The Bistro™ places a high priority on community service—its “Community Kitchen Sharing” program is designed to provide a licensed kitchen for startup and rising bakers and future restaurateurs that may have outgrown their home kitchens but are not yet ready to take on the huge financial commitment of a brick-and-mortar location. Their goal for this platform is to promote co-operative relationships, foster innovation and elevate the next generation of food entrepreneurs.
Since 2003, Nash Pressure Washing has served as a mobile cleaning contractor specializing in cleaning exterior houses, apartments, restaurants, commercial buildings and vehicle fleets. It has designated crews for both exterior and interior windows, and parking lot striping for new or existing parking lots.
“Every job we do always comes with its own set of challenges and obstacles,” said owner Robby Nash. “We are always prepared and excited to meet our clients’ needs, no matter how intricate or large the scope of the job is.”
Nash Pressure Washing supports local foundations, charities and groups such as the C.C. Police Foundation, Charity League, Agape Ranch and Ronald McDonald House, just to name a few.
“I don’t have any interest in being the jack of all trades, but I do want to keep expanding our knowledge and expertise in this industry to be the best option when looking for a pressure washer or window cleaner in our community,” Nash said.
5601 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi • 361.510.3570 nashpressurewashing.net
Since 2006, Innovo Residential has been at the forefront of renovating and crafting custom homes in the Corpus Christi area. Under the leadership of owner Kurt Tugman, a seasoned builder with over 25 years of experience, the company has established itself as a trusted name in the local community. The name "Innovo" reflects the company's philosophy, derived from the Latin word meaning "to create and renew." Innovo Residential guides clients through every stage of the project, from initial concept to final walkthrough, ensuring that each homeowner is delighted with the outcome. At the heart of Innovo’s success are six core principles: Service, Design, Commitment, Quality, Craftsmanship, and Flexibility. Following these principles has provided Innovo the opportunity to work with many clients to build and remodel their dream homes in Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, and on North Padre Island. In an ever-evolving coastal environment, compliance with building regulations is crucial. Tugman’s extensive knowledge of construction codes, construction materials, floodplain management, dune permitting, and coastal construction techniques ensures that every project is not only thoughtfully designed but also resilient against the elements, built to withstand the test of time. They maintain an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and are the only local 10-time winner of the prestigious Angie’s List Super Service Award—a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional craftsmanship.
Butler Signature Events has proudly served the Coastal Bend since 1984. As a family-owned and operated business, it provides event rental services with a commitment to excellence.
The mission to deliver outstanding service is made possible by dedicated employees with 20-plus years of experience such as Joey Reyna, Tent Specialist, Jose and Vicky Rodriguez, Showroom/Warehouse Associates, and the leadership/management skills of Isabel Rivera-Trevino. With a wide selection of tents in various styles and sizes, it can accommodate everything from intimate birthday parties
and weddings to large corporate events and fundraising galas. It also offers tent rentals for construction and refinery clients.
Butler Signature Events provides an extensive range of accessories, including dance floors, staging, catering equipment, tables, linens, chairs, and decorative elements. Services also feature computer-assisted drawings (CAD) to help customize your event’s layout and design.
Focused on listening to clients and meticulously attending to every detail, Butler is committed to delivering a “Signature Event” experience for every occasion, regardless of its size.
For more than 19 years, Straight Edge Technology has provided IT support to companies in the South Texas area. Straight Edge recognizes the challenges many companies face with cybersecurity, operations, and IT delivery, which affect predictable growth. Straightforward IT and cybersecurity solutions can give your business the competitive edge you need. Straight Edge specializes in IT services for legal, CPA firms, healthcare offices, oil and gas companies, construction businesses, and nonprofits.
Straight Edge’s owner, Douglass Miller, was born and raised in Corpus. He received a BS in Computer Science from Texas A&M–Corpus Christi before founding Straight Edge Technology, Inc. in 2006. He and his wife, Kristina, stay busy with their four children.
Doug believes IT support should be strategic, with a technology roadmap suited for unique needs and goals. Straight Edge focuses on proactive IT support that is built around relationships that last.
kent nielsen & chelsea nielsen-McNeley
Since 1989, Kent has led Pest Patrol with a clear mission: protect the Coastal Bend community with honesty, reliability, and unmatched expertise. Today, alongside his daughter Chelsea, that mission has grown into a family legacy—one built not just on years of experience, but on trust, innovation, and a deep commitment to those they serve. As a locally owned and operated company, Pest Patrol is more than just a business—it’s a team of dedicated professionals who are out in the field every day, solving problems, protecting homes, and answering calls with care and confidence.
Chelsea and Kent are proud to lead this exceptional group, knowing that their success comes from the hard work, heart, and knowledge their team brings to every customer interaction. Whether it’s a residential home or a commercial property, Pest Patrol is there with solutions that work—and a sense of humor, too. After all, their motto says it best: “Buenas Noches, Cockroaches.” With a loyal customer base and a reputation built over three decades, Pest Patrol continues to set the standard for pest management in the Coastal Bend—family-led, teamdriven, and always focused on making your space safer, healthier, and pest-free.
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX • 361.852.4002 • Pestpatrolcc.com
tailored closet
Husband and wife team, Richard and Trina Allen, relocated from San Antonio in August 2022, and opened The Tailored Closet & PremierGarage of Greater Corpus Christi to serve the Coastal Bend and surrounding areas.
They are a veteran and locally owned whole-home organization provider, with a goal to provide exceptional customer service in every project. They design and install custom solutions to include but not limited to closets, pantries, home offices, laundry rooms,
entertainment centers and Murphy beds. In the garage, they design and install custom cabinets, work benches, vertical wall storage systems, overhead racks, epoxy flooring and commercial grade polypropylene floor tiles. They believe that no space is too small or large to transform and bring beauty and function to a home!
They are proud to be part of the community and look forward to many years of giving back right here at home.
Let them help you “Calm the Chaos.”
“The way we do anything is the way we do everything.”
That simple quote by Martha Beck has guided Scott Ricks, owner of Bayfront Roofing and Construction, for years. It shapes nearly every part of his life—from how he cooks dinner to how he leads his team. Scott’s daily mission is simple: perform better today than yesterday.
At Bayfront, the customer experience isn’t a slogan—it’s a system. The team talks about process improvement more than any other topic. They know perfection can’t be reached, but they pursue it relentlessly. Because home improvement projects can be stressful, Bayfront focuses on one word: communication.
From the moment a customer signs on, they’re connected. Weekly updates—via call or text, depending on preference—keep clients informed every step of the way. And whenever a customer calls, a real person answers. It’s not just about roofing; it’s about reassurance.
For Scott, that same philosophy extends beyond the job site. Family is at the heart of everything Bayfront does. The company’s foundation is built on the same values Scott and his wife, Belen, work to pass down to their sons—integrity, follow-through, and pride in a day’s work. These lessons aren’t just talked about at home; they’re lived out in every project Bayfront takes on.
Every nail, every call, every decision reflects the same principle: if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right. Because you shouldn’t have to worry about your roof—and Scott wouldn’t want his family, or yours, to settle for anything less.
2257 A-1 Hill Rd. Aransas Pass 361.800.5991 • Bayfrontroofing.com
For 100 years, Carlisle Insurance has built a legacy of trust, reliability, and success. We have reached countless milestones, nurtured lasting relationships, and established a reputation for excellence in the industry. This rich heritage is the foundation upon which we will continue to build and grow.
In today's dynamic market environment, we recognize the need to evolve and adapt to continue delivering exceptional value. Acrisure represents the next chapter in our company's story—a name that embodies our commitment to innovation, agility, and forward-thinking solutions in the insurance and fintech sectors. Acrisure is committed to continuing the personalized local service you have come to know, now with powerful global resources.
We are excited to begin our second century by honoring our history and trusted company culture, while continuing to modernize to meet the needs of a dynamic market. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Acrisure is meeting this complexity head-on, with creativity and agility.
By Kayla Butts MS, RDN, LD & Kenneth Yandell
Photos by Rachel Benavides
Every Friday, the Yandell backyard fills with the aroma of Ken’s legendary grilled steak. His secret: Love, patience and a marinade of honey and steak seasoning. The steak sizzles to perfection, with skewered shrimp in a sweet and smoky marinade lying beside it.
Most know him as Ken, but I call him dad, and he makes each steak to “your perfection.” My mom and sister prepare baked potatoes and macaroni and cheese in the kitchen, while around the dinner table, laughter at grandpa’s jokes flows as easily as the iced tea. In this treasured tradition of a backyard barbecue at Dad’s, each bite carries memories of shared stories and love.
Mesquite Grilled Filet Mignon by Kenneth Yandell
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
INACTIVE PREP TIME: 70 minutes
COOK TIME: 15-20 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
Four 1 1/2-inch filet mignon steaks
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp Uncle Chris’ Steak Seasoning
1 tbsp Montreal Steak Seasoning
DIRECTIONS:
Remove steaks from refrigeration and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
Brush steaks with honey, then season liberally with Uncle Chris’ and Montreal steak seasonings. Marinate an additional 30 minutes while grill preheats.
Preheat grill to 450-500˚F. (Dad recommends using a pellet grill with mesquite pellets.)
Grill steaks for 7 minutes on each side for medium rare, 9 minutes on each side for medium, 10 to 10 1/2 minutes for well done.
Let steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
RECIPE
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tbsp grated fresh or jarred horseradish
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp chopped chives
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp cracked black pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Stir all ingredients in a small bowl until well incorporated and serve immediately with steak.
by Lynn Yandell
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
COOK TIME: 3 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/3 cup raspberry chipotle marinade
DIRECTIONS:
Soak skewers in water. Brush shrimp on all sides with marinade and skewer each shrimp on soaked skewers. Grill skewered shrimp for about 1 minute on each side, or until opaque with obvious chargrill lines. Serve immediately.
Red, yellow, panang and everything in between, these five local restaurants are ideal when you’re craving curry
By Kylie Cooper
Photo by Rachel Benavides
As temperatures drop, a comforting and satisfying dish like curry becomes even more appealing. In the Coastal Bend, local restaurants are showcasing their culinary artistry with menus that emphasize authenticity.
Nuttapan “Nick” and Kanya “Judy” Weeranitikun opened Tuk Tuk in late 2022, offering the Coastal Bend a new option for traditional Thai food. The Weeranitikuns are an impressive pair, as is their menu and commitment to using quality ingredients. This is a top choice for curry in the Coastal Bend, featuring a lineup of the usual suspects: red, yellow, green and panang curry. We’re giving a special shoutout to the oh-sobuttery potatoes found in the yellow and green options.
6314 YORKTOWN BLVD. #201
You can’t go wrong with any of Thai Cottage’s curry options, which include red, yellow, green, panang, pineapple, roasted duck and fish fillet. All are served with steamed jasmine rice and your choice of protein. We recommend the fried tofu, which adds a crispy texture and is far from lacking in flavor, unlike some other tofu dishes.
5830 MCARDLE ROAD, SUITE 10
Chef Kevin Ly brings over 30 years of expertise in Southeast Asian cuisine to Lei Kitchen, evident in the authentic flavors and innovative twists across the menu. When it comes to
curries, there’s a wide selection, including house yellow, Thai red, seafood red and Thai green. However, the curry udon, available with grilled chicken or shrimp, stands out as a distinctive option. The mild, wheat-based udon noodles, with its smooth texture, are ideal for absorbing the rich and umamipacked curry sauce.
4037
SARATOGA BLVD. #D
BKK’s curry menu stands out with its impressive array of protein choices. Diners can embark on their own culinary adventure, selecting from classic curry flavors like panang, yellow, green and pineapple. The plot twist comes with the protein options: organic tofu, certified Angus beef, shrimp, mixed seafood, moo yang pork, tiger cry sirloin and wild-caught salmon. As a bonus, don’t miss the chips and curry appetizer.
3850 S. ALAMEDA ST.
6702 S. STAPLES ST. UNIT C
Owners and best friends Ankit “Andy” Patel and Vishel “Vish” Patel have created one of the only local spots for Indian food in the Coastal Bend—and we greatly thank them for that. Most of the curry options on this menu are prepared in the Andhra style, which is known for being spicy, tangy and packed with flavor. Shrimp, Goan fish, egg, veggie, lamb and cashew curry are just a few of the options. An order of garlic naan is key to mopping up any leftovers.
4650 CORONA DRIVE
Brewster Street Icehouse’s new location provides triple the food, family and fun
By Leila Ydrogo Photos by Rachel Benavides
Year after year, Brewster Street Icehouse has set the local standard for serving up good food and quality entertainment for the whole family. With the opening of its third location, the good times are brought to the beach (or at least just down the road from the sand). You can continue the fun with good food and a cold drink in hand at its newest location on The Island.
“The original concept for Brewster’s started in downtown Corpus Christi,” explained Marisol Ramirez, Director of Marketing for Durrill Properties. “Ultimately, [Bill Durrill] wanted a spot where he could have a cold beer, good food, listen to good music, but still keep it an atmosphere where his kids were welcomed. We continue to do that today.”
Expanding Brewster’s has long been a part of the plan, and Avery Durrill, Chief Marketing Officer, and her dad, Bill Durrill, have had their eyes on The Island. “They love being out here, but never did we imagine we would be on The Island in 2025,” Ramirez explained. Similar to the Downtown and Southside locations, you will find plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, a stage for live music and a playground for the kids. The
above: Hello Sunshine burger, Brewster Street tacos and fresh oysters.
views of the canal are what set the new location apart, though, and the view is not compromised whether you decide to enjoy the AC inside or bask in the sun on the outside patio.
Diners will still find all their favorites at the island location, such as the chickenfried steak, wings, fish tacos and seasonal items. Happy hour is every weekday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with $3 beers, well, seltzers and margaritas. Along with happy hour, a $5 drink of the month and signature drinks are offered every month.
If the food and drink aren’t enough to keep you coming back for more, the live music on any given Thursday, Friday or Saturday invites you to stay a little
longer than you planned. “Capturing that homegrown talent is big for us. We believe in investing in local talent. That’s really important to us,” Ramirez said.
“Being that it is family-owned, we treat people like family, whether that’s you walking through our doors, working for us or playing on our stages. We believe that you’re a part of the Brewster’s family,” she continued. Now, there are triple the chances to kick back, relax and have a good time—with a killer view to pair.
CUISINE
COFFEE SPOTLIGHT
The local coffee truck now has a second home inside The Foundry. The sleek coffee bar, outfitted with gold accents and a few bistro tables, is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
@adelphoscoffeeroasters 418 Peoples St.
FORK & VINES NOW SERVING COCKTAILS @fork_andvines
Did you know Fork & Vines now has a full bar? From classics to signature cocktails, you can now pair any dish with the perfect spirit.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO ACCESS OUR WEBSITE AND DISCOVER EVEN MORE FOOD AND DRINK CONTENT THROUGHOUT THE COASTAL BEND.
Interior of Adelphos new location.
Photo provided by Adelphos
DINNER
Streat Corner Kitchen
TEX-MEX
Streat Corner Kitchen has opened its first brick-and-mortar location and brought a fresh menu along with it. The loaded corn bowls regulars know and love, a full lineup of sides, a kids’ menu and sweet treats from Something Baked round out the offerings. 601 N Water St. $
DINNER
Wip Kitchen ASIAN FUSION
Every Sunday from 5-10 p.m., The Gold Fish hosts Wip Kitchen, a pop-up kitchen serving Asian fusion dishes packed with flavor. Crowd favorites already include the loaded karaage fries and the Street Viet-Dog. 724 N Mesquite St. $
LUNCH/DINNER
Mozzafiato Pizza ITALIAN
With brick-oven pies and warm hospitality, this new pizza joint has quickly become a local favorite. Beyond pizza, the menu features scratch-made mozzarella sticks, salads and standout desserts.
924 S. Staples St. $$
By Ava Coronado Photos by Rachel Benavides
Korean barbecue offers a unique dining experience, often allowing guests to grill various cuts of meat directly at their table, typically over a charcoal or gas grill. But a true Korean BBQ feast goes beyond the grilled meats, encompassing an array of flavorful banchan (side dishes), and often includes soups and rice to complete the meal. While not every establishment on our list provides a complete tabletop cooking experience, the distinctive flavors of Korean BBQ are a consistent presence on various local menus throughout the Coastal Bend.
It is right there in the name. Big Bowl Korean BBQ does not play when it comes to its large portions, flavorful fresh ingredients and friendly staff. Thanks to its cozy atmosphere, customers are ensured a special dining experience that will leave them craving more. Take a bite into the signature dishes, including beef bulgogi, spicy chicken, katsu chicken and everything in between. Perfect for casual dinner dates or lunch. 6410 WEBER ROAD STE. 19, CORPUS CHRISTI
As the first authentic South Korean-inspired steakhouse in town, guests are guaranteed to experience a true cultural encounter with its rich selections of prime rib, wagyu and its house favorite, marinated boneless short rib. BO BBQ is a great option for families, friends and food lovers seeking some adventure. 6042 SPID, CORPUS CHRISTI
With a menu boasting an array of delicious Korean dishes, Gogi Yaki is the kind of place you’ll find yourself frequenting multiple times a week after just one visit. Experience its cooked-to-order fan favorites, including kimchi dumplings, teriyaki shrimp and beef bulgogi, alongside signature sides like seaweed salad and cucumber kimchi. The food is accompanied by a relaxed ambiance and a cordial staff, making this the perfect welcoming spot for a fast and flavorful bite. 7001 YORKTOWN BLVD. #12, CORPUS CHRISTI
Ready to own the kitchen? J Pot Korean BBQ and Hot Pot delivers an experience to remember: With guidance from a server, guests customize their meals and cook their food right at the table. Create special memories and get a taste of all-you-caneat options like beef, chicken, pork, lamb and many delicious sides. Perfect for those wanting a big dinner and an interactive dining experience. 1510 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE, CORPUS CHRISTI
As a fan favorite spot in town, you might end up calling Z Counter your new home. Offering endless choices of Korean japchae from grilled pork and chicken to savory short rib and more, this casual restaurant truly delivers. Guests rave about the fast service, authentic dishes and warm hospitality that keep them going back. 1220 AIRLINE ROAD STE. 155, CORPUS CHRISTI
With new incentives, filmmakers and local leaders envision big-screen potential for the Coastal Bend
By Vanessa Perez Photos provided by Visit Corpus Christi
Texas may soon give other states a true run for their money as legislators make moves to act on a massive expansion to the film industry by way of Senate Bill 22. Filed by Houston Republican Senator Joan Huffman, the bill was passed in March with widespread support from both sides of the aisle in a 23-8 vote. Those who dissented voiced worries about the selection process for productions to receive funding, citing potential allocation bias.
The bill directs the Texas Comptroller to allocate $300 million every two years through 2035 to a Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Fund, which provides funding to various media such as film, television, video games, animation and much more.
The Texas Film Commission reported a 469% return on investment since the beginning of the film incentive program in 2007, giving a sizable boost to the state economy. For filmmakers and industry workers across Texas, the possibilities of SB 22 suddenly spark new life into the scene.
“This means we can more confidently pitch our coastal scenery, unique architecture and local talent to film and television producers who now know incentives won’t vanish midway through a project,” CEO of Visit Corpus Christi, Brook Kaufman, said of the new deal.
“Productions that spend money in our community by hiring local crew, renting equipment, booking hotel rooms or catering from local restaurants can qualify for rebates or bonuses under SB 22, directly boosting the return on investment for choosing Corpus Christi.”
Currently, the Corpus Christi Film Commission offers a 5% grant to local film productions. SB 22 fuels burgeoning hope for expansion and funding for the local scene, as well as for economic boosts from non-local productions looking to do work in the region. While the new benefits offered to the film industry by SB 22 inspire optimism and possibilities for the industry in the Coastal Bend, reaping the rewards of the opportunity would require both community engagement and strong local support in various forms.
What remains for industry workers in the Coastal Bend is to take advantage of what’s in front of them. The Texas Film Commission includes criteria and an application for funding on its site—to be completed 180 days before the production start date—including information on additional bonuses for underutilized areas, veteran employment and more.
“The Governor’s Office retains discretion in awarding grants. Smaller productions may still struggle to qualify, and without continued investment in workforce development, location readiness and support services, Corpus could be passed over for better-prepared cities,” Kaufman said. “SB 22 transforms film incentives from a speculative promise into a state-backed commitment. For Corpus Christi, it’s a chance to convert our coastal, cultural and architectural assets into real economic growth, but only if we build the capacity to compete.”
filmmusic@visitcorpuschristi.com visitcorpuschristi.com/film-commission
By Mandy Shelton Provided by Visit Corpus Christi & Kingsville Visitor Center
In the Texas cattle epic Lonesome Dove, which celebrates its 40th birthday this year, Captain Augustus McCrae always cooks the first meal of the day for the cowboys at Hat Creek Cattle Company. He rises every morning at 4 a.m. “to see to the breakfast,” Larry McMurtry wrote in his Pulitzer Prize–winning novel.
On Nov. 21, during Kingsville’s annual Ranch Hand Weekend, visitors to King Ranch have a chance to eat like the Hat Creek Outfit. The National Historic Landmark property opens its gates to the public for the Ranch Hand Breakfast, a Saturday morning tradition since 1990.
The Ranch Hand festival, always held the weekend before Thanksgiving, begins with a community tree lighting downtown on Friday night. “This event is the perfect way to bring families together to celebrate the holidays,” said Connie Womack, City of Kingsville tourism director. “The Christmas Tree Lighting not only marks the start of Ranch Hand Weekend, but also ushers in a season of joy, tradition and togetherness in Kingsville.”
The next morning, the Ranch Hand Breakfast kicks off a Saturday full of festivities. King Ranch employees rise before dawn to cook for the weekend ranch hands, with culinary techniques true to Kingsville history. “The biscuits are cooked over a parilla, which is an iron grill that cooks with an open flame,” said Lorette Williams, director of hospitality and community services at King Ranch. “Coffee is brewed over a campfire.”
By 7 a.m., local volunteers start serving eggs, sausage, biscuits, gravy, tortillas and refried beans. A menu that once fueled a full day of ranching work, the 2025 Ranch Hand Breakfast now provides sustenance for spectators of team roping exhibitions, cooking demonstrations and storytelling in the tradition of McMurtry. "Profits raised from the Ranch Hand Breakfast go directly to the non-profit
Ranch Hand Weekend runs Nov. 21-22. Visit the website to purchase general admission concert tickets for $25 in advance; $35 on the day.
La Posada de Kingsville, which supports the annual December Parade of Lights,” Williams said.
Back in town, the festival culminates with a concert from William Clark Green and Cameron Sacky Band at JK Northway Coliseum Saturday night.
The Ranch Hand Breakfast is served 7-11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at the King Ranch on Highway 141. Tickets for breakfast are available online or on-site at ten bucks a head, except for buckaroos age 3 and under, who eat for free.
In Lonesome Dove, Gus cooks outdoors for three reasons: the heat, the taste and the sunrise over the chaparral. The sunrise breakfast, whether on the trail or back at the ranch, serves up a Texas tradition from the founding of King Ranch and the Chisholm Trail in the mid-19th century through today’s popular culture. During Ranch Hand Weekend, everyone can have a taste of that Texas history.
This 1964 bus depot is a bright example of downtown’s adaptive reuse
By Jillian Becquet Photos provided by Corpus Christi Public Libraries, La Retama Special Collections & Archives
Since the early 1960s, people have come to this building on the corner of Starr and Chaparral for the bus … or the BUS—Bar Under the Sun.
The building was built as a Continental Trailways Depot in 1964. Greyhound grew so quickly in the 1920s and ’30s that the Interstate Commerce Commission stepped in to encourage smaller, regional lines. With rider numbers decreasing after WWII, four of these lines combined to become Continental Trailways, and with the growth of Corpus Christi’s oil and gas industries, downtown was a perfect location for Continental to invest in a new, larger station.
Continental Trailways’ Silver Eagle buses made waves with their padded seats, year-round air conditioning, music and restrooms on board. Residents and visitors could go north
to San Antonio, Austin or Dallas, and south to McAllen or Brownsville. But when rider numbers slowed down in Corpus Christi, so did Continental Trailways’ business, and ironically, this building became a Greyhound station. Greyhound operated on the site until 2015, when it moved to the new Staples Street station to better accommodate riders switching to city buses.
Its days as a vacant building were short, though, as Bar Under the Sun, known simply as “BUS,” opened in December 2017 with a name paying homage to its roots as a bus station. In the history world, we call this an “adaptive reuse” of space— the bones we see being built here in 1964 still stand, even though the purpose of the building has changed, allowing the building to continue serving the city it was built for.
