San Antonio Chef Jason Dady Expands Culinary Empire with New CrawDady Concept
San Antonio’s celebrated chef, Jason Dady, is adding another venture to his growing portfolio with the launch of CrawDady, a spring pop-up specializing in made-to-order catfish boils. The new concept will open at The Rock at La Cantera on February 21, further solidifying Dady’s presence in the city’s vibrant food scene.
A Cajun-Inspired Pop-Up
CrawDady promises a diverse menu of catfish boils, offering four distinct flavor profiles to cater to a range of palates. Guests can choose from a dry Cajun boil featuring a signature spice blend, a wet Cajun option with butter, Frank’s Red Hot, and a secret seasoning, a Viet-Cajun style infused with ginger, lemongrass, and “Funky Butter,” and an Italian garlic herb variation.
Beyond the main attraction, the menu will feature shareable sides rooted in classic Southern cuisine. These include boudin balls served with a grain mustard remoulade, boudin sausage links, and jalapeño-white Cheddar hushpuppies topped with Kewpie mayo and lime. For cooler evenings, a hearty chicken and sausage gumbo served over bay leaf rice will also be available.
Launch Event and Spurs Watch Party
Dady will officially kick off CrawDady with an all-day celebration on January 21, beginning at 1 pm. The event will include live music from Aaron Montano-Teague, refreshments, and a viewing party for the San Antonio Spurs game against the Sacramento Kings at 7 pm. Dady’s existing Rock at La Cantera concepts – Lil’ Bros BBQ Shack, Ice Ice Dady, and Roca & Martillo – will also be offering special treats during the launch. Entry and parking will be free for attendees.
Expanding the Dady Brand
CrawDady represents the latest addition to Dady’s expanding culinary empire. He recently revitalized his Umai Mi concept, transforming it into a quick-service stand at Pearl’s Bottling Department food hall. Looking ahead, Dady is planning to open Lil’ Bros and Ice Ice Dady in 2025.
Perhaps his most ambitious project is slated for April with the debut of Mexico Ceaty inside downtown’s Shops at Rivercenter. This innovative concept will reimagine the mall’s food court with four distinct dining experiences: Tres Arcos, a Mexican restaurant; Dos Cantinas, a 300-seat bar; El Último, a speakeasy-style agave tasting room; and Dulce Aroma, a panadería.
CrawDady will operate throughout the spring season, though a specific closing date has not yet been announced. The pop-up will be open Fridays from 11 am to 10 pm, Saturdays from 11 am to 11 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 8 pm.
