Local's List 2018 - The Bend Magazine
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Local’s List 2018

Coastal Bend residents voted for their local favorites in a variety of categories, and the winners are...

By Kylie Cooper|

By: Kylie Kinnett  Photos by: Rachel Benavides and Contributors

It takes more than just our staff to create a magazine each month. Without each of you, we wouldn’t have a story to tell. We love what we do, but we could never do it without our locals. The third annual Local’s List began with Coastal Bend residents nominating their favorite restaurants, shops, businesses, services, and people. Our team then compiled the nominations into a poll and opened up voting. The Local’s List is dedicated to each of you—the hard working, creative, and passionate members of our community. This list is your voice. So, without further ado, here are your winners for the Local’s List 2018!

ARTS & CULTURE

  • 2D Artist: ACouplePuns – Greeting Cards

    • With a love for design and a second language of puns, Angelica Demiris has crafted a business revolving around her passions. ACouplePuns is a source for high-quality and unique paper goods that are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. acouplepuns.com

  • 3D Artist: Moonstone’d Pottery

    • There’s something special about a product being made wholly by someone’s hands. Moonstone’d Pottery is a small batch, one-woman shop owned by local ceramic artist, Alex Chapa. From mugs to bowls, to planters to vases, this shop has unique pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Etsy.com/shop/moonstonedpottery, @moonstonedpottery

  • Art Gallery: The Art Museum of South Texas

    • The Art Museum of South Texas actively collects, conserves, exhibits, researches, and interprets outstanding works of visual art with a particular interest in art of the Americas. With new exhibits every few months, beautiful architecture, and an address on the Bay, this museum is a perpetual local favorite. artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

  • Arts Theatre: Harbor Playhouse

    • This community theatre has been a staple in the Coastal Bend for the past 93 years. Their classic, musical, and contemporary performances have entertained locals for almost a century! Auditions are always open to all because the theater believes in helping people achieve their dreams of being onstage. harborplayhouse.com

  • Dance Studio: Munro Ballet Studios

    • With a reputation of excellence, the Munro Ballet Studios strive to encourage proper technique, creativity, and artistic growth in each of their dancers. As the official school of the Corpus Christi Ballet, they are bringing the joy and discipline of dance to the community. munroballetstudios.com

  • Family Attraction: Texas State Aquarium

    • There’s no denying Texas State Aquarium is the go-to family fun destination here in town. Home to various different species, there is no shortage of excitement once you step through the entrance. From sloths hanging around to dolphins flipping through the air, you’re sure to discover something amazing. texasstateaquarium.org

  • Festival: Dia De Los Muertos

    • If you’re looking for the ultimate block party in town, this is it. Dia De Los Muertos honors those who have passed. The festival brings Downtown Corpus Christi streets alive with food, music, culture and art in memory of loved ones and the past. diadelosmuertoscc.com

  • Interior Designer: Susan Castor

    • “Happy clients and timeless environments” is Susan Castor’s motto when it comes to interior design. Her design expertise, passion for detail, and dedication to exceptional customer service have allowed her to decorate some of the most fabulous homes in the Coastal Bend. castorcollection.com

  • Local Park: Cole Park

    • Whether you remember this park as a wooden fairytale castle or in its more modern-day glory, Cole Park has played a special part in almost every local’s life. Sitting right on the water, Cole Park is the perfect place to picnic, play, exercise, or relax. 2600 Ocean Drive

  • Painter: Noel Stephenson – Colors of Noel

    • For Noel Stephenson, art is a way of life. Her beautiful paintings are filled with boldly rendered native animals and plants. Each of her paintings expertly depicts various aspects of coastal life from landscapes to up close portraits of familiar sea and shore wildlife. @noeliasfineartandjewelry

  • Photographer: Heidi Rae Photography

    • Heidi Rae has always had a passion for photography, but it wasn’t until 2009 that she decided to make the camera her fulltime job! Her love for capturing people’s special moments in life is clear when looking at any of her photographs. heidiraephotography.com

  • Tattoo Artist: Bruce Edwards – Electra Art, Axis Tattoo

    • Bruce Edwards knows a thing or two about the art of tattooing. As the owner of the oldest shop in town, Electra Art, Edwards has been providing top-notch services to Corpus for decades. Whether you’re a tattoo virgin or veteran, they’ll create something amazing for you.  alectraartcc.com, electraartcc.com/axis

ENTERTAINMENT & MEDIA

  • Cover Band and Local Musician/Band: Chicas Rock

    • Put music, creativity, and aspiring young rock stars together and you get Chicas Rock! Female empowerment is of an upmost importance, and the ladies with Chicas Rock are committed to teaching girls ages 5 and up how to both rock out and feel good about themselves. chicasrock.tumblr.com

  • DJ: El Dusty

    • Raised and rooted in Corpus Christi, El Dusty has been making some pretty big moves in the music scene, both locally and internationally. His debut album, Cumbia City, has taken the Latin charts by storm, and he isn’t planning on stopping anytime soon. eldusty.tumblr.com

  • Event Venue and Live Music Venue: Brewster Street Ice House

    • When it comes to live music, Brewster Street Ice House knows best. Whether you are looking for Texas country, 80s cover bands, or the latest in local music, Brewster’s is sure to have a show lined up that will fit your music tastes. brewsterstreet.net

  • News Anchor: Katia Uriarte

    • No matter your preferred news station, we can all agree on one thing. Katia Uriarte is the local news queen. Her infectious smile and bright personality have captured the locals’ hearts over the years, and we can’t deny it! @katattackcc

  • Radio Talk Show Host: Big Frank and Coco – K99 Morning Show

    • If you aren’t waking up with Big Frank and Coco, you’re waking up all wrong! The dynamic duo’s K99 Morning Show gets their listeners’ day started off on the right foot with updates and music especially for the Coastal Bend. k99country.iheart.com

  • Sports Team: Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball

    • This hometown favorite has made baseball fans out of us all! The talented roster of this Houston Astros’ Double-A Affiliate heats up our summer nights even more. You can catch the Hooks at Whataburger Field where there is plenty of fun to be had! milb.com/corpus-christi

FOOD, DRINK, & NIGHTLIFE

  • Asian Cuisine: BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar

    • BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar takes their cuisine seriously. The head chef, a native of Thailand, wants to bring a taste of home to the Coastal Bend. Authentic Thai cuisine can be found in every section of their menu, from Pad Thai to tasty pho dishes. bkkthaikitchenbar.com

  • Bakery: Hester’s Café

    • It’s no surprise Hester’s Café has snagged this title three years in a row. Their ever-changing array of fresh, in-house, baked from scratch pastries is always mouthwatering. Combine quality ingredients and Hester Rodriguez’s natural love for baking and you get a pretty delicious outcome. hesterscafe.com

  • Barbecue: Howard’s BBQ & Catering

    • Howard’s BBQ & Catering offers fresh, bona fide South Texas BBQ  every day. Their tender meat is served with all the fixin’s your BBQ-loving heart desires. This family oriented business has been tending to locals’ BBQ needs since 1949. We can’t stop going back for more! howards-bbq.com

  • Beer List: B & J’s Pizza – The Original

    • For some people, pizza is the first thing that comes to mind when they hear B&J’s. For others, it’s beer! This microbrewery has a beer to fit anyone’s preferences. Whether you’re into hops or stouts, or just want a good ol’ Shiner, they have you covered. bandjspizza.com

  • Best Outdoor Seating: Harrison’s Landing

    • Good weather calls for dining outside, and there is no better place to do so other than Harrison’s Landing. Sit right on the water and enjoy a cold beverage and a great meal while listening to live music! The view is gorgeous and the service unbeatable.  harrisonslanding.net

  • Breakfast Tacos: Nano’s Taco Run

    • There’s no denying it, Corpus Christi has the best breakfast tacos in Texas. Nano’s Taco Run provides delicious authentic Mexican food, and their hearty-sized breakfast tacos are just one example of that. And as a bonus, breakfast is served all day! nanos-tacorun.com

  • Brunch: Hester’s Café

    • Brunch is everyone’s favorite meal, and Hester’s Café does it right! From omelets and bennys to coffee and mimosas, the gang at Hester’s knows the way to our hearts. Next time you find yourself pondering where to brunch on Saturday, remember Hester’s. hesterscafe.com

  • Burger: Padre Island Burger Company

    • This local island favorite daily dishes out gourmet burgers that are sure to cater to all your burger loving needs. Build your own or pick from the various choices on their menu. Whatever you decide to do, you won’t be disappointed. padreislandburgercompany.com

  • Chef: Tony Posada – The Blue Clove

    • Take one bite into any dish Tony Posada cooks up at The Blue Clove, and you’ll understand why he won this category. His food is always of the highest quality, and his friendly smile is an added bonus to the already great experience you’re sure to have. @theblueclove

  • Cocktails: The Post at Lamar Park

    • For the third year in a row, The Post takes the crown when it comes to Coastal Bend cocktails. This gastropub pays homage to pre-prohibition style cocktails by adding a modern twist. Fresh ingredients and innovation allow them to mix up only the finest quality of drinks. thepostlamarpark.com

  • Coffee: Hester’s Café

    • Everyone knows step one of each day is coffee. Over at Hester’s Café, they take this very seriously. With fresh, in-house brewed coffee, a killer cold brew, and plenty of other caffeinated delights, they’re a must-stop shop for coffee enthusiasts. hesterscafe.com

  • Date Night: Yardarm Restaurant

    • Yardarm’s waterfront view is the most ideal landscape for any date night. Their cozy and romantic atmosphere paired with delicious food and wine is sure to provide you with an intimate setting and a perfect night with that special someone. yardarmrestaurantcorpuschristi.com

  • Diner/Dive: Andy’s Kitchen

    • Over at Andy’s Kitchen, they make a promise to each customer that they won’t leave hungry. Whether you’re looking for a home-cooked style lunch or a mouthwatering breakfast, they’ve got you covered. Plus, it’s hard to beat those complementary blueberry muffins. @andyskitchen

  • Food Truck: Alice’s Wonderland

    • There really isn’t much Alice’s Wonderland food truck can’t do. From tacos and gorditas to gouda tomato soup and tasty subs, there is something to please everyone’s palate. Follow them on social media to find out where they will be parking next! @wonderlandonwheels

  • Frozen Treat: Marble Slab Creamery

    • Locally owned-and-operated Marble Slab Creamery offers handcrafted ice cream made in small batches in-house. Using dairy from local farms and the freshest ingredients, they aim to provide you with that sweet tooth fix. Oh, and did we mention unlimited toppings? @marbleslabcreamery

  • Girls Night Out: The Post at Lamar Park

    • Let’s be honest, not many things can compare to a good girls’ night out. Gather the troops and head down to The Post to unwind, de-stress, gossip, and most importantly, drink! Rally the girls, and The Post will take care of the rest.  thepostlamarpark.com

  • Happy Hour: Scuttlebutts

    • This island neighborhood watering hole has a happy hour like no other. Every day, from 3 to 7 PM, they serve up drinks with a side of live music. This full-service restaurant and bar offers specials on wine, beer, margaritas, sangria, and cocktails 7 days a week. scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

  • Health Foods: Joint Venture Sandwich and Smoke Shop

    • The gang at Joint Venture is all about S.O.L. (Sustainable Organic, and Local). Sourcing from local Texas farmers, they create some of the freshest food in town. Each of their sandwiches is served on home-baked bread with tasty, garden-fresh ingredients. @jointventure361

  • Italian Cuisine: Luciano’s Italian Restaurant

    • A peaceful atmosphere mixed with exquisite cuisine is what makes this a local favorite. Luciano’s has been serving authentic Italian cuisine to the Coastal Bend since the 70s. You can taste the passion for traditional Italian food in every bite. lucianositalian.com

  • Juice Bar: Raw Bar

    • Raw Bar’s main goal is to bring healthier dining options to the community. They certainly achieve this goal with their menu. While they have many meal selections to choose from, their cold and fresh pressed juices are next level. rawbarcc.com

  • Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: Brewster Street Ice House

    • This local favorite provides fun for every age! Their massive playground out back is just one way Brewster’s creates a family fun environment. A basketball court, outdoor seating, and plenty of room for the kids to run around all add up to a great family experience. brewsterstreet.net

  • Local Catering: Rollin’ Tide Boil Co.

    • Beach boils and bonfires are only complete if you have food from Rollin’ Tide Boil Co. there. This catering company adds the perfect touch to any event. Shrimp, corn, potatoes, sausage, and more—they definitely know how to party. @rollintideboils rollintideboilco.com

  • Margarita: The Post at Lamar Park

    • There are tons of drinks to choose from at The Post. Refreshing cocktails and a vast beer selection come to mind first, but don’t overlook their margaritas. Bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and one heck of a kick—what more could you ask for in a drink?  thepostlamarpark.com

  • Microbrewery: Lorelei Brewing Company

    • The team at Lorelei Brewing Company doesn’t joke around when it comes to craft beer. As the only local brewery that cans their beer, Lorelei is dedicated to their craft. From milky stouts to hoppy IPAs, they’ve got something brewing for you. loreleibrewing.beer

  • Mixologists: Jacob McClain – The Gold Fish

    • The Gold Fish is one of the newer local hot spots to arrive downtown. When it comes to mixing a good drink, they mean business. Bar Manager and cocktail extraordinaire, Jacob McClain, whips up craft cocktails daily with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and tons of personality. @thegold_fish

  • New Restaurant (2 years or less): BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar

    • With their doors opening just a year ago, BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar has become one of the trendiest and busiest local restaurants in town. Their classic Thai dishes and relaxed atmosphere make for the perfect brunch, lunch, or dinner spot! bkkthaikitchenbar.com

  • Pizza: B & J’s Pizza – The Original

    • A local staple since the 70s, B&J’s Pizza serves up top quality pizza daily. From the sauce to the veggies, each of their pies has the freshest of ingredients. B&J’s also has a vast beer selection to fit any type of drinker. bandjspizza.com

  • Sandwich: Hester’s Café

    • With four categories under their belt in this year’s Local’s List, it’s safe to say Hester’s is a local mainstay. Their sandwiches are an easy go-to when deciding what to eat. From the classic Texas Wave to the Primo Ruben, all of their subs are equally delicious. hesterscafe.com

  • Seafood: Snoopy’s Pier

    • This longtime local favorite provides fun and good food for the whole family. Their fresh seafood dishes are always up to par, and the view is pretty hard to beat. Their on-site fish house and shrimp breeding facility ensure nothing but the best. snoopyspier.com

  • Steak: Niko’s Steakhouse

    • Immediately upon arrival, the smell of mesquite wood fills your nose, and your taste buds get excited. For the second year, Niko’s Steakhouse wins the prize, and it’s easy to see why with even one bite of their savory steaks. nikossteakhouse.com

  • Sushi: AKA Sushi & Sake Bar Downtown

    • Enjoy some of the most creative and delicious sushi in South Texas at AKA. Local legend, Chef Boyd, takes his craft seriously and will never put a plate in front of you that won’t leave you satisfied. Their menu is filled with unique tastes and exceptional quality. akasushidowntown.com

  • Tacos: Hi-Ho Restaurant

    • Hi-Ho has been a local favorite for years. Their passion for bringing authentic Mexican cuisine to the community shows in each and every dish. It doesn’t matter what your go-to taco is; they’ve got it all, and each one is delicious. @hi-horestaurant

  • Wine List: TANNINS Wine Bar & Tapas

    • TANNINS Wine Bar & Tapas is exactly what a wine bar should be. Their Tuscany-inspired ambiance puts you in just the right mood for all the wine your heart desires. With daily specials, quality wine, and tasty tapas, this place never disappoints.  tanninswinebar.com

HEALTH, SHOPPING, & BEAUTY

  • Antique Shop: My Mom Had That!

    • Bringing back wonderful memories from childhood is one of this shop’s favorite things. My Mom Had That! Strives to help their visitors take a trip down memory lane. With 40 vendors to peruse, there is sure to be an antique treasure with your name on it. mymomhadthat.net

  • Barber Shop: Flawless Barber Shop

    • Let’s be honest, everyone loves a fresh edge up, and Flawless Barber Shop is here to provide you with just that. Their talented staff, with over 50 years of combined experience, specializes in a variety of cuts and styles. flawlessbarbershopcc.com

  • Beauty/Cosmetic: Gold Dust Cosmetic Tattooing

    • Newly expanded Gold Dust Cosmetic Tattooing is here to make your cosmetic dreams a reality! Enhancing their clients’ natural beauty and providing a quality experience is their goal. Specializing in both micropigmentation and microblading, their team’s skill and artistry is top notch. @golddustcosmetictattooing

  • Beauty/Day Spa: The Woodhouse Day Spa – Corpus Christi

    • You don’t have to travel outside the Coastal Bend to experience a luxurious getaway. Spending a day at Woodhouse Day Spa will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Book a massage, facial, or pedicure, and allow yourself to be pampered the way you deserve. corpuschristi.woodhousespas.com

  • Children’s Clothing: Four Chicks in the Park

    • The trendiest children’s clothing in town can be found at Four Chick in the Park. It’s no secret why this boutique has taken the title three years in a row. Whether you’re shopping for an expectant mom or your own little ones, this place is a must. fourchicksinthepark.com

  • Consignment Store: Threads

    • Buy, sell, and trade are the words to live by at everyone’s favorite Corpus Christi thrift store. With their new online shop and an inventory that changes daily, Threads is the best place to get the trendiest outfits without breaking the bank. threadscorpuschristi.com

  • Eyewear: Coastal Bend Eye Center

    • The Coastal Bend Eye Center has been serving the community and all its eye care needs since 1977. Whether you need a routine eye exam or LASIK surgery, their team of experienced doctors will take good care of you! coastalbendeye.com

  • Farmer’s Market/Pop-Up Vendor: Sew Bonita

    • Elena Flores picked up sewing as a hobby in 2014. Little did she know that craft would soon launch her whole business. Sew Bonita, inspired by Flores’ culture, features everything from clothes to dog leashes. We can’t get enough! sewbonita.com

  • Fine Jewelry: Casa de Oro Jewelers

    • This fine jewelry store is home to unique, custom, and hand-crafted accessories that will add the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. Casa de Oro has tons of collections to choose from, and each is as special as the next. casadeorojewlers.com

  • Fitness Gym: The Quad

    • At The Quad Fitness Studio, they believe everyone has a fitness goal, and they are prepared to help you meet yours. By providing you with tools, experience, and knowledge, the team will provide you with the resources and encouragement to get into top shape! quadfitnessstudio.com

  • Furniture: Chic to Chic

    • If you’re looking for a way to revamp your home’s style, take a trip over to Chic To Chic. This furniture store offers a trendy and fresh take on all things home décor and can definitely help you create the home of your dreams. chictochicfurniture.com

  • Gift Shop: Gatherings

    • Gatherings has been the Coastal Bend’s one-stop- shop for gift giving since 1997. Regardless of the occasion, you’ll find the perfect something at this marvelous store that offers all sorts of gifts, decor, apparel, and collectibles. You might even find a treasure for yourself! gatheringsonalameda.com

  • Hair Salon: Kosmo Salon

    • There are very few services Kosmo Salon doesn’t provide. This salon offers everything from haircuts and coloring to full sets of nails with over 300 nail designs. Their talented staff is dedicated to making each of their clients look and feel beautiful. @kosmosalon08

  • Handcrafted Product: Coco Kini

    • Lauren Page, creator, owner, and maker of all things Coco Kini, is dedicated to bringing great fitting, fashionable, and functional swimsuits to girls so they can feel completely confident in any water situation. Inspired by her surfing adventures, Lauren hand makes each of her suits with love and passion. cocokinisurf.com

  • Medical Spa: Vijay Bindingnavele, MD

    • Dr. Vijay sets out to help each of his clients feel great about themselves and the skin they’re in! His practice includes various cosmetic surgeries and other non-surgical skincare methods that all aim to improve the way you feel and look. corpusplasticsurgery.com

  • Online Boutique: Sew Bonita

    • While you can purchase any of Sew Bonita’s products through her various pop-up markets, there is a way to have her products delivered directly to your doorstep! Sew Bonita’s online shop is filled with all her culture empowering products. sewbonita.com

  • Pet Boarding: Barkaritaville Pet Resort

    • Whether you’re going out of town or just want doggy daycare, Barkaritaville is a haven for pets. Their staff builds meaningful relationships with each of their guests to ensure that your fur baby has a home away from home. barkaritavillepetresort.com

  • Pet Groomer: The Paw Spa

    • Canine or feline, big or small, short hair or long hair, The Paw Spa will pamper them all. Dogs and cats alike will be treated with the upmost care while being bathed, groomed, trimmed, and styled. Even dental cleaning is available! thepawspacc.webs.com

  • Vintage Retailer: Threads

    • Threads is constantly buying gently used clothing from locals in order to curate the perfect inventory for their shoppers. With such a vast and varied collection, it should come as no surprise when you happen upon a hidden vintage gem at this shop. threadscorpuschristi.com

  • Women’s Clothing Boutique: Jewels Clothing and Accessories

    • If you’re in need of a new look from head-to-toe, Jewels has you covered. This boutique always has the latest trends in stock. Friendly and helpful staff will help you put together the perfect outfit for any and all occasions. @jewelscctx

  • Yoga Studio: Yoga Studio of Corpus Christi

    • Yoga Studio’s main goal is to help others on their journey to self-discovery. They hope to help better each person’s mental and physical state through various yoga practices. No matter your skill level, they’ll help your inner light shine through.  yogastudioofcc.com

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