With Loco Rewards and a Refreshed Menu

Ojos Locos Sports Cantina is starting 2026 with a clear message for fans of big games and bold flavors: come hungry, come often, and get rewarded for it. The culturally-rooted sports cantina just announced a new loyalty program—Loco Rewards—plus a round of menu and beverage upgrades aimed at delivering more authentic Latin flavor, stronger value, and a better overall guest experience across its Southwest footprint.

Loco Rewards: A loyalty program built for regulars

At the center of the update is Loco Rewards, Ojos Locos’ new points-based program designed to recognize frequent guests. Here’s how it works:

• 250 bonus points when you join
• 5 points for every $1 spent
• Rewards with no minimum purchase required
• Ability to redeem multiple rewards at once
• Access to members-only offers and early alerts on specials and menu updates

Destinee Rollins, CMO of Ojos Locos Sports Cantina, says the program is an extension of what the brand has always been about—community, food, and sports—while giving loyal guests “real value” and a deeper connection to the culture and hospitality behind the concept.

January perk: A shot at 2026 World Cup tickets

To celebrate the launch, Ojos Locos is tying its loyalty push directly to its sports DNA. Guests who sign up for Loco Rewards in January will be entered to win two free tickets to the 2026 World Cup—a timely hook as soccer fans begin looking ahead to the biggest tournament on the planet.

Menu upgrades: More Latin technique, more scratch-made detail

Alongside the loyalty rollout, Ojos Locos is refining core menu items with upgraded ingredients and preparation methods that lean further into classic Latin cooking techniques. A few highlights from the refreshed lineup include:

• Elote Loco: roasted and charred, finished with crema, queso fresco, Valentina, and chile en polvo
• Birria de Res: reimagined with slow-cooked brisket
• Fresh churros: made daily by a Dallas-based Mexican bakery
• Hand-pressed tortillas: now pressed daily in the cantinas

Alex Sadowsky, Director of Culinary and Beverage, says the updates focus on preparation, presentation, and ingredient pairings—keeping the menu approachable while letting the ingredients “stand on their own” in a lively game-day environment.

Built for groups: New platters and $10-and-under Especiales

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon (and group dining likely to spike), Ojos Locos is also leaning into shareable options. Starting in January, the brand is introducing:

• A larger taco platter designed for sharing
• Expanded late-night food offerings
• A broader rollout of daily Especiales, many priced at $10 or less

One standout value play: a Late-Night Taco Platter featuring 10 tacos for $10.

Behind the bar: Updated cocktails and an expanded tequila program

The refresh isn’t just happening in the kitchen. Ojos Locos is also rolling out a revamped 2026 beverage lineup featuring:

• Reworked cocktail recipes
• An expanded high-end tequila program
• Trend-forward flavors built for game-day energy

New and featured drinks include:

• Milagro Mexican Martini
• Cadillac Margarita
• Horchata Sin Dolor

Plus a mixed-shot lineup with returning favorites like Paleta and new options like Mexican Candy and Spicy Mango.

A growing brand across the Southwest

Ojos Locos currently operates 35 locations across Texas, California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada, and says these January updates reflect continued investment in quality, hospitality, and the communities it serves. For guests ready to join, Loco Rewards is available through the Ojos Locos app on the App Store or Google Play.

• Learn more about Loco Rewards: https://ojoslocos.com/rewards
• Explore the brand: www.ojoslocos.com

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/

Last Updated on December 23, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Real, Meaningful and Full of Mana: How to Make This Holiday Truly Your Own

(Family Features) The holidays rarely look like the glossy greeting-card version you grew up with, and that ’s a good thing. From mismatched chairs around the table to spontaneous drop-ins and burnt cookies, the festive season can be a little messy, and all the more wonderful for it. After all, the holidays are yours and the way you choose to celebrate is what gives them meaning. When it ’s time to celebrate whatever the holidays look like for you, thoughtful touches, expert tips and delicious recipes can help turn those imperfect, unforgettable moments into lasting memories. They may even help you create new traditions of your own. Whether hosting a laid-back dinner for friends, a family gathering or carving out a quiet moment with a loved one, the season is truly what you make of it. It ’s all about creating comfort, connection and meaning in ways that feel authentic to you. This year, instead of chasing someone else ’s version of “perfect,” Teremana – the premium small-batch tequila brand – has created “Recipes for Real Mana,” a seasonal moment designed to help people embrace celebrations that reflect their own lives, tastes and communities in a way that feels real and authentic.

People Crave Belonging and Connection

A recent poll from the “American Psychological Association” found that half of Americans lack companionship, signaling that more and more people are craving deeper connections. When you open your doors, welcome others in and share good energy, no matter what that looks like, it offers seasonal inspiration that encourages people to come together in ways that feel real, relaxed and personal, tapping into the fundamental human need for belonging.

Find Your Recipe for Real Mana

A perfect companion for any holiday gathering, Teremana Tequila makes mixing cocktails effortless and fun, while festive initiatives like Recipes for Real Mana offer seasonal inspiration that brings people together. As part of the campaign, its holiday site features an interactive Cocktail Generator. Answer a few simple questions and the tool recommends a cocktail to match your vibe – whether it’s a Pomegranate Margarita for a festive get-together, a Cranberry Paloma for family gatherings or a Mocha Espresso Martini for a cozy evening by the fire. It ’s a playful way to explore new recipes, share good energy and bring a little extra Mana to every celebration. “Mana isn ’t just a word, it ’s a way of celebrating what really matters,” says Teremana Tequila Global Brand Ambassador Alan Ruesga-Pelayo. “This season, it ’s less about perfectly set tables and more about the moments that make you smile, laugh and connect. Whether you ’re raising a glass with friends, hosting a spontaneous gathering or savoring a quiet evening at home, Teremana is there to make those moments feel intentional, meaningful and a little magical. It ’s about opening your heart and your home, on your own terms.” From festive gatherings and cozy nights in, Recipes for Real Mana is a reminder that the holidays don ’t have to be perfect to be memorable. They are yours to shape; full of laughter, warmth and connection, exactly the way you want them. To find more information, inspiration and festive cocktail recipes, visit teremana.com/holiday and follow @teremana across social media.

Pomegranate Margarita

Servings: 8-10

• 2          cups Teremana Reposado
• 1 1/4    cups pomegranate juice
• 1          cup fresh lime juice
• 2/3       cup cinnamon syrup
• 3          pinches salt
• ice
• cinnamon sticks
• rosemary sprigs

1. In pitcher, combine reposado, pomegranate juice, lime juice, cinnamon syrup and salt. Stir to incorporate.
2. Pour into rocks glasses over fresh ice.
3. Garnish with cinnamon sticks and rosemary sprigs.

Cranberry Paloma

Servings: 8-10

• 1 1/2    cups Teremana Blanco
• 1          cup cranberry juice
• 1/2       cup fresh lime juice
• ice
• grapefruit soda
• lime wheels
• cranberries

1. In pitcher, combine blanco tequila, cranberry juice and lime juice.
2. Pour into salt-rimmed Collins glasses over fresh ice. Top with grapefruit soda. Stir gently to combine.
3. Garnish with lime wheels and cranberries.

Mocha Espresso Martini

Servings: 1

• 1 1/2    ounces Teremana Anejo
• 1          ounce cold brew concentrate
• 1/2       ounce coffee liqueur
• 1/4       ounce chocolate syrup
• ice
• 3          coffee beans or shaved dark chocolate, for garnish

1. In cocktail shaker, combine tequila, cold brew concentrate, coffee liqueur, chocolate syrup and ice. Shake until chilled.
2. Double strain into martini glass.
3. Garnish with coffee beans or shaved dark chocolate.

SOURCE: Teremana Tequila

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/

Last Updated on December 23, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Grazing and Gifting: Sweet Solutions for the Holiday Rush

(Family Features) If you feel yourself slipping into the last-minute rush of the holiday season, still searching for dazzling recipes and abundant gifts, rest assured – you’re not alone. Light, refreshing ingredients for spectacular meals are just a click away, and they can make for the perfect presents, too. Abundantly sweet and simple, Florida Citrus Gifts are a simple way to share holiday cheer with family, friends and loved ones. From cheerful boxes to beautiful baskets and more, they offer options in all shapes and sizes, loaded with freshly picked tangerines, grapefruits, oranges and mandarins. They’re easy to send and even easier to enjoy, providing a one-of-a-kind (and healthy) way to share holiday cheer in memorable meals like Scallops with Florida Grapefruit Butter, sure to become a household favorite for years to come. Pair it with a light and refreshing Florida Citrus Salad with Burrata featuring fresh grapefruit and oranges mingling with peppery arugula and creamy burrata to bring a bit of balance to holiday dining. No festivity is complete without libations, and this Florida Grapefruit Brandy Sour can be a staple at your beverage station. Just mix freshly squeezed Florida Grapefruit juice with brandy, simple syrup, bitters and egg white (for froth) then finish with sparkling water. Find deliciously thoughtful ways to share the sweetness of the season with loved ones by visiting PickFLA.com, which features an interactive map to find a range of gift options that fit your holiday needs.  

Florida Grapefruit Brandy Sour

Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 1

• 1 3/4    ounces brandy
• 2 1/2    ounces freshly squeezed Florida Grapefruit Juice
• 1/3       ounce simple syrup, or to taste
• 2          dashes bitters
• 1          egg white
• ice cubes
• 1          ounce sparkling water
• Florida Grapefruit twist, for garnish

1. In cocktail shaker, add brandy, Florida Grapefruit juice, simple syrup, bitters and egg white. Shake vigorously 15-20 seconds to create frothy texture.
2. Add ice cubes to shaker and shake 15 seconds to chill drink.
3. Strain into chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Pour light splash of sparkling water over top to enhance effervescence.
5. Garnish with grapefruit twist.

 

Scallops with Florida Grapefruit Butter

Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 3 minutes Servings: 4

• 2          Florida Grapefruit
• 1          fennel bulb
• 3          tablespoons olive oil, plus additional for searing, divided
• 1          tablespoon sherry vinegar
• 1/8       teaspoon, plus 1 pinch, salt, divided, to taste
• 1/8       teaspoon, plus 1 pinch, pepper, divided, to taste
• 1          small bunch fresh cilantro
• 12        scallops with empty shells
• 1          tablespoon butter

1. Peel and cut one Florida Grapefruit into segments. Squeeze remaining grapefruit and reserve juice.
2. Wash and finely chop fennel. In bowl, mix fennel with olive oil, sherry vinegar and 1 pinch salt and pepper.
3. Mix and add fresh cilantro. Keep a few leaves for garnish.
4. In hot frying pan, drizzle with olive oil then sear scallops 1 minute on each side.
5. Remove scallops from pan then deglaze with reserved Florida Grapefruit juice. Let it simmer slightly and add butter to make sauce. Add 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper.
6. Place 1 tablespoon fennel salad in washed shell, top with three scallops and coat with grapefruit butter.
7. Finish with reserved cilantro leaves and fresh grapefruit segments.

 

Florida Citrus Salad with Burrata

Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus Florida Citrus Vinaigrette:

• 1/3       cup Florida Grapefruit Juice
• 1/3       cup Florida Orange Juice
• 2          teaspoons orange zest
• 2          tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2          teaspoons honey
• 1          tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/3       cup olive oil
• 2          tablespoons shallots
• sea salt, to taste
• fresh pepper, to taste

Pickled Onion:

• 1          red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2       cup white vinegar or cider vinegar
• 1/2       cup water
• 1          tablespoon sugar
• 1          teaspoon salt

Burrata Salad:

• 4          Florida Grapefruit, peeled and cut into segments
• 3          oranges, peeled and cut into segments
• 1          bunch radishes, sliced thin and cut into sticks
• 1/3       cup pistachios, grilled and coarsely chopped
• 1          cup arugula
• 2          tablespoons dill, chopped
• sea salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 8          ounces burrata

1. To make vinaigrette: In small bowl, mix Florida Grapefruit Juice, Florida Orange Juice, orange zest, cider vinegar, honey, Dijon, olive oil and shallots until dressing is emulsified. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside. Vinaigrette will keep 7 days in refrigerator.
2. To make pickled onion: Place sliced onion in airtight canning jar.
3. In small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Bring to boil and pour over sliced onion in jar. Add small amount of water to completely cover onion. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving. Pickled onions will keep 15 days in refrigerator.
4. To make burrata salad: In bowl, combine Florida Grapefruit and Orange segments; add radish sticks, toasted pistachios, arugula and dill. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Place salad on large plate, top with coarsely chopped burrata and drizzle generously with citrus vinaigrette and pickled onion.

SOURCE: Florida Department of Citrus

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/