In our monthly Table Talk series, we gather food and drink news in one place for your convenience. From restaurant openings to new local pop-ups, here’s what we’ve seen in the Corpus Christi food and drink scene this month.
Kilates Coffee Opens First Brick and Mortar
From an online storefront to truck pop-ups and temporary homes, Kilates Coffee has officially found its permanent home out on Padre Island. Owned and operated by local entrepreneur Kathya Reppart, a third-generation coffee connoisseur, visitors can expect the same dedication to quality and specialty inside an elegant space. Her ties to coffee makers in her native El Salvador, alongside other high-quality producers like Colombia and Africa, ensure the product in your cup is as good as it gets in this part of the world. The shop’s hours are 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and an 8 a.m. start on Sundays. 14254 South Padre Island Drive
Portland’s New Scratch Dining – The Grove
Housed inside Portland’s new Fifth & Elm venue, The Grove scratch-kitchen offers up a food and drink menu fine-tuned to meet everyone in your party’s expectations. Whether you’re looking for a burger and a round of oysters for a hearty lunch or simply want to indulge in some craft cocktails with the girls, The Grove’s got you covered. Plan a visit soon for a chance to try their seasonal offerings: a K-Pop Demon Hunters-themed pizza and “The Musician” cocktail. Find grill and bar hours on their website. 201 5th St. Portland, TX
Prime Steakhouse Whiskey Bar’s Wine Social Club
A recognizable figure in gourmet dining in the Coastal Bend, Prime Steakhouse Whiskey Bar will now host a Wine Social Club, a local wine tasting club aimed at traveling across the world “one wine at a time.” Join the local steakhouse for its inaugural meeting this Wednesday, Jan. 14, and find out what else is in store for 2026. 6326 Yorktown Blvd Ste 2
Cafecito Babe’s Coffee Pop-Ups
Among the many coffee options in Corpus Christi, Cafecito Babe’s impressive list of one-of-a-kind lattes stands out. Inspired by traditional Mexican sweets, Cafecito Babe’s serves up coffee-based drinks featuring flavors like churro, fresas con crema and even the classic Gansito pastry. Other offerings include juice and Redbull refreshers, as well as a “Bebesito” kids menu so everyone in the family can indulge. Still operating on a pop-up basis, follow Cafecito Babe’s journey on socials to find out where she’ll be next.
The Coffee MUGG’s New Location
Calling all Potterheads: The Coffee MUGG has officially reopened! Their newest location features two stories of everything Harry Potter, from quotes on the walls, decorative pillows and, of course, copies of the books themselves. With plenty of lounge seating, a cozy ambiance and deliciously on-theme coffee and pastries, The Coffee MUGG invites muggles and wizards alike to stop by and stay for a while. 4535 South Padre Island Drive
Imperial Roast and BBQ House Arrives on the Southside
A new contender in the barbecue lineup of the Coastal Bend, Imperial Roast and BBQ House, brings something new to the Southside food scene with authentic Chinese barbecue. Offering all of the classic Chinese dishes like fried rice, spring rolls and pork belly, the real star of the show is the slow-roasted duck. Sold in slices or whole, the duck takes a full day to prepare, ensuring the flavors soak into the juicy meat. Owner Bobby Hong welcomes visitors with a bright smile and eager eyes, so make sure to stop by during their regular business hours. 5017 Saratoga Blvd. Suite 125
