The vast majority of San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium^® attendees return to the meeting every year to learn about the most scientifically relevant developments in breast cancer research and care. Fortunately for these repeat attendees, San Antonio offers ever-changing events and dining experiences plus seasonal and cultural celebrations that make for new SABCS^® memories each and every time.

Jessica Jones, MD, is a long-time attendee of SABCS^® who lived in San Antonio briefly while she was young, then came back to San Antonio for medical school, residency, and fellowship training.

What brought you back to San Antonio?

My first job as a medical oncologist was in Houston, Texas. For the second part of my career, I am honored to be working at Long School of Medicine at The University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) as an associate professor and director of our Cancer Risk Reduction and Education (CaRE) program. I am so excited about the incredible professional opportunities offered by the expansion of the Mays Cancer Center with the opening of the new UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty Research Hospital (MSRH). In addition, there is a culture here in San Antonio that really centers around having fun, eating, and just enjoying yourself. There’s something about the warm welcome you get when you’re here in San Antonio that makes it different from other places.

San Antonio is known for being very walkable. What are your recommendations for attendees after they leave the convention center?

I adore the Pearl Historic District (known simply as Pearl), especially the Pearl Brewery area, which is home to great food and atmosphere. There is a spacious, grassy outdoor area, a collection of great restaurants, quiet places for cocktails, and the notable Hotel Emma. It is 2 miles (or a 10-minute Uber drive) from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

While in Pearl, you can pop into my favorite book store (The Twig), grab a snack at Chilaquil, or book a pedicure at the Hiatus Spa. There is a lovely farmers market on Saturday mornings, and I love to grab a glass of wine at High Street Wine Co. in the evening. My absolute favorite place to eat in Pearl is Southerleigh, followed by a cocktail at Sternewirth.

I also enjoy Southtown, with its wealth of art, fusion restaurants, cocktail spots, and unique boutiques. It is right alongside downtown, where the convention center is located, and Hemisfair Park.

For first-time SABCS^® attendees, what are some can’t-miss sights?

Well, first, you have to get your picture taken at The Alamo! Your friends and family will ask if you saw it, so you can be sure to tell them that you did.

Outside of the missions, Love Lock Bridge in Southtown is a really fun spot. You can put a lock on the bridge in honor of someone you care about or just make a wish.

The San Antonio Museum of Art has a fabulous restaurant that overlooks the river so you can enjoy the sunset during dinner. The Donald Lipski fish sculptures are also a great photo opportunity for visitors. These are really beautiful at night.

Of course, the River Walk is its own attraction and is a beautiful way to get from the convention center to different restaurants, shops, and attractions. There will be holiday lights all along the River Walk and holiday boat caroling tours every day until December 23.

Where are your favorite places to eat?

Rosario’s is a must-visit destination and a San Antonio original! With a rich 30-year history, Rosario’s is consistently named one of the best Mexican restaurants by food critics and loyal customers. There also is a new rooftop lounge to enjoy the views and sounds of the city. It is where countless families go to celebrate graduations and successes.

With several locations around San Antonio, the downtown location of La Panadería is not to be missed during SABCS^®. Get a Café Bombón and pink concha or almond tequila croissant. Taste the local culture, and experience what a 48-hour fermentation process does to the bread – you won’t find a fluffier or decadent pan dulce.

The Guenther House is both a restaurant and attraction. The restaurant is located in the beautifully restored home of C.H. Guenther, who established Pioneer Flour Mills right on the San Antonio River. There is also an onsite museum and gourmet gift shop. It’s only open from Wednesday through Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with no call-ahead seating however, so be sure to get there early for breakfast or lunch.

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Dining

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Fun without Food