For the first time since October 2023, a tornado touched down in San Antonio this week. The extreme weather event unfolded early Wednesday morning with estimated peak winds of 100 mph, cutting a four-mile path from the UTSA area to The Rim.
“Unfortunately, when we saw the weather this morning, we knew there will be a lot of damage to our restaurant,” Said Motawea told MySA on behalf of Luxor Mediterranean Cuisine and Hookah Lounge. The businesses was devastated by the storm, with furniture, debris and broken glass littering the restaurant’s outdoor area. “Even the [outdoor] TV flew down the road.”
Despite the damage, Motawea praised The Rim’s management team for responding quickly to help the business begin cleanup. “The general manager, Mr. Dean Domingo, he sent a few guys to clean up, and even including the security people. So they are taking a good action, which I’m happy to see,” Motawea added.
Luxor was among several businesses damaged by the storm, which tore part of the roof from a four-story apartment building at the Oasis San Antonio complex. It also shattered storefront windows at the Santikos Palladium movie theater, Bass Pro Shops, Marshalls and several other businesses.
Meanwhile, some businesses — like Bakudan Ramen — remained completely untouched by the severe weather: “Our patio has seen better days, but thankfully the Rim tornado skipped right over us,” restaurant reps wrote in a Wednesday social media post. “WE ARE OPEN!”
The Santikos Palladium also announced it will reopen Thursday after crews completed repairs following the storm.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone back as Santikos Palladium reopens Thursday, July 16,” theater representatives wrote in a Wednesday announcement. “Our team worked diligently to complete the necessary repairs so we can safely welcome both our employees and guests back. While additional exterior repairs will continue over the next few days, a temporary fence will be in place around the entrance, and signage will guide you to the theater entrance.”