Pastrami dumplings – The Monterey

Pastrami dumplings - The Monterey
Rye jus, hot mustard. $11
The Monterey, San Antonio TX

I appreciate the creativity and daring in the food at The Monterey. Unfortunately, most of the dishes we ordered weren’t successful. They were messy, confusing, and just didn’t taste very good. I actually liked these dumpling though. The pastrami in the dumplings were unexpected and they rye jus was flavorful enough, but that random smudge of mustard on the rim of the bowl was SO odd. It just didn’t work with the jus. I would have understood it if the dumplings were dry, but since it was almost a soup, the condiment was off-putting.

Devil's Backbone beer - The Monterey
Real Ale “Devil’s Backbone”, Blanco, TX. $5.50

Shrimp chips – Hot Joy

Shrimp chips - Hot Joy
Served with Thai dip. Happy hour $3.50
Hot Joy, San Antonio TX

I loved this place! It was fun, hip, and the food was delicious. And the snacks during happy hour were super cheap! These freshly fried shrimp chips were hot and SO flavorful. They really didn’t need the Thai dip to add any more flavor. The dip was definitely salty, but I guess that’s intentional to get guests to drink more.

Lone Star beer - Hot Joy
Lone Star tall boy. Happy hour $1.99