A half hour from San Antonio’s city center, La Cantera Resort stands as a Texas Hill Country oasis. Known for its exceptional service and luxurious amenities, La Cantera also boasts a Michelin-recognized restaurant on its grounds: Signature. Perched just off the resort golf course, Signature feels like meandering into a European-bistro-meets-rustic-hunting-lodge.
A roaring fireplace hums behind background chatter as guests congregate around the bar or climb the stairways overlooking the glimmering three-tiered chandelier. Signature’s walls are draped in antiques and taxidermy, blending provincial touches with understated elegance. The centerpiece, however, is the kitchen. Framed by a row of hanging antique copper pots, the kitchen is in full view, with each workstation on display. The staff moves seamlessly from bar to table to kitchen, occasionally dipping into a tiny courtyard garden for final plating touches. The inherent intimacy from kitchen to table feels akin to sharing a meal in the picturesque English countryside.
Chef John Carpenter and his team are masters of execution. Whether it’s Texas quail with cornbread and venison stuffing or a wagyu striploin with bone marrow bordelaise, the kitchen carries out each dish with exemplary precision and intention. If time permits, book a chef-curated tasting menu, and don’t neglect the wine pairings. From Texas terroir bottles to an extensive list of exclusive imports, the sommelier and wine program at Signature is one of the finest in the state. However, if you’re craving a nightcap before returning to your suite, choose a bottle from their well-stocked bar or toast the night with a Great Scotch! cocktail with tarragon-infused scotch, yellow chartreuse, maraschino, and lemon.
