At Arenas Lounge, we’re always looking for new ways to surprise our guests — not just with what’s on the plate, but with who’s in the kitchen. That’s why when the chance came to partner with Curry Boys BBQ, we jumped in headfirst. What started as a casual idea between two neighborhood crews turned into one of the most exciting mashups our kitchen’s ever seen.
This wasn’t your average pop-up or guest feature. This was a true BBQ collab — a two-way culinary exchange rooted in mutual respect, bold flavor, and local love. Each restaurant took inspiration from the other’s pantry, style, and spirit. The result? Dishes you couldn’t find anywhere else in the city, even if you tried.
What’s a BBQ Collab Look Like?
This collab wasn’t just about borrowing ingredients. It was about letting each other’s style shine while creating something new. Arenas brought our signature citrus, spice, and comfort-forward style to the Curry Boys kitchen. In return, they brought their smoked meats, punchy curries, and inventive flair into ours.
Let’s break down what each spot cooked up.
At Curry Boys BBQ – Stone Oak:
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Creamy Cilantro Porker
Smoked pork butt — juicy, tender, and packed with deep smoke — layered with our Arenas cilantro cream sauce, a scoop of jasmine rice, chili crunch, and a squeeze of fresh lime. This dish hit all the notes: richness, heat, brightness, and umami. It’s the kind of bowl that makes you forget how fast you’re eating. -
Sake de Vida
Inspired by one of our most refreshing cocktails at Arenas, this sake-based drink featured hibiscus syrup, lemon juice, and a hint of mint. It was floral, citrusy, and the perfect contrast to the bold bowl it accompanied.
At Arenas:
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Texas Flameado
A sizzling, melty dish that pulled in Curry Boys’ famous brisket and wrapped it in our cheesy, gooey house flameado style. We topped it with a punchy pico de gallo, and the feedback was immediate: people wanted more. It had backyard BBQ vibes but felt elevated enough to share with friends over drinks — or keep to yourself. We won’t judge. -
Shiner Paloma
We’re known for playful cocktails, and this one quickly became a staff favorite. Shiner Bock gives the classic paloma a malty twist, still bright with grapefruit and a salted rim. Perfect for those looking to explore new pairings without straying too far from Texas roots.
Why This BBQ Collab Mattered
San Antonio’s food scene is built on community and creativity. We see restaurants as more than just places to eat — they’re where people come together, where flavors get passed down, and where new ideas are born.
This BBQ collab felt like a true reflection of that. It wasn’t just about the dishes (though we’re still dreaming about them). It was about two kitchens bringing their full selves to the table. We learned a lot, had a blast, and honestly? We’d do it again in a heartbeat.
This kind of collab reminds us that when local restaurants team up without ego — just passion — everyone wins.
Meet the Curry Boys
If you’re not already familiar, Andrew Ho and Sean Wen are the minds behind Curry Boys BBQ, as well as the ever-popular Pinch Boil House. Their approach to food is bold, unapologetic, and totally their own — marrying the complex, vibrant curries of Southeast Asia with the smoky depth of Texas BBQ.
Their dishes aren’t just delicious — they tell a story. And that story’s been making waves far beyond San Antonio. From features in The New York Times, Texas Monthly, and Bon Appétit, to shoutouts across social and food media, Curry Boys is cementing itself as one of the city’s most talked-about spots. But what we love most? They’re still all about the people, the food, and the vibes. No frills — just flavor.
And While We’re Talking ‘Best in the City’…
We’re proud to be part of SA Current’s Best of San Antonio 2025 contest this year — alongside so many other restaurants that make this city great. Whether or not we take home a title, this BBQ collab already felt like a win. It brought together two teams, two sets of fans, and a whole new energy to our kitchens.
So if you’re checking out the voting list and wondering what to support? Just know: Arenas is here, doing what we love, every single day — and we’re honored to be in the mix.
What’s Next?
That’s the real question, right?
If you missed the Arenas x Curry Boys BBQ collab, don’t worry — this won’t be the last time we cook outside the lines. We’re always dreaming up new ideas, new pairings, and new reasons to bring the community together over a good plate (and a better drink).
Follow us on Instagram, stop by either spot, and stay hungry.
We’ve got more coming soon — and you won’t want to miss it.
