by: V. Gwyn Hartung and Kristine Gonzales
In 2017 UNESCO designated San Antonio a Creative City of Gastronomy, solidifying it as an international culinary destination. Food is an essential aspect of cultures and the act of breaking bread has been an important, intimate affair since biblical times. So it seems only appropriate to highlight the bread that San Antonio has held near and dear for generations.
Known as a cultural hotspot, San Antonio’s rich cultural history of Mexican and European traditions have been table staples since it’s inception. From pan dulce, to tortillas to European bakeries, every piece of bread has a story that is just waiting to be told.
From specialty wedding cake shops to tortillerias, there is no shortage of bread to break in San Antonio. But amongst all these shops one thing remains clear — family. Breaking bread and creating memories is something everyone can relate to, no matter where they’re from.
There’s Mardi Gras King Cake, matzo bread, Greek Celebration bread, and so many more kinds of bread that represent times spent with family. In San Antonio pan is an important part of ofrendas during Día de Muertos, funerals, and parties. But also it’s essential to Sunday mornings and time with family. Often given as a gift or shared over coffee, bread is something the brings everyone together no matter where you’re from. Following the maps will be a mini guide to collecting your own family’s history with pan. Perhaps one of the mentioned panaderías below will make an appearance in a history you collect!
