Biga's on the Banks

If you've heard of one fine dining restaurant in San Antonio, it just might be Biga's. Biga's chef and owner Bruce J. Auden has been nominated for the James Beard Foundation Award, one of the dining world's highest honors. The restaurant was also named by Gourmet Magazines as one of America's Best Restaurants. These recognitions come as no surprise to San Antonio residents, who have long enjoyed the elegant eatery for special occasions and for its innovative events.

Located on the River Walk at street level, the contemporary style restaurant boasts natural lighting, river views, and a sophisticated loft-like atmosphere.

The Menu: An eclectic menu awaits diners, who find that the New American cuisine of Biga's reflects the flavors of both Mexico and Asia. The menu changes daily. Typical appetizers include seared Hudson Valley foie gras with black trumpet mushrooms and grapefruit-duck glaze, duck confit with celery root, tart apples and blackberry jus or simply Beluga caviar. Entrees selections include phyllo wrapped sea bass with Serrano ham, creamy mustard leeks, and pinot noir sauce; sesame tempura crusted swordfish, Hunan style barbecue rubbed natural veal chop, rice wine-braised duck leg, and smoked cinnamon guinea hen breast.

Special Events: One of Biga's most innovative concepts is its Table 31. Situated with a view of the kitchen, these prix fixe tasting menus are available for parties of six to eight guests. Participants select a menu of six, seven, or eight courses, paired with wine. The menu varies but a typical offering is lobster ravioli on arugula with lobster sauce and soft fennel, Szechuan pepper cured salmon with orange chili noodles and sweet mustard, boudin-stuffed quail with pears and blackberry jus on a zucchini cake, veal and beef medallions with a chanterelle demi-glacé, mint marigold béarnaise and truffled fries, Pavlova with marscapone, and orange muscat fruit. Don't have six or eight people in your party? Tables of two and four can also be accommodated at a private screened table. Reservations are required for Table 31, which is offered Sunday through Thursday evenings only.

The restaurant also offers many special events throughout the year, from jazz brunches to international tastings.

Reservations: Reservations are recommended for all dining.

Location: 203 S. St. Mary's St., San Antonio

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