Unique Culinary Art Experience at World Heritage Center

Published on November 05, 2025

Join for a photography exhibit and book signing with Adán Medrano and JoMando Cruz.

SAN ANTONIO (November 5, 2026) – The City of San Antonio World Heritage Office will host an opening reception for the “Native Culinary Heritage” exhibit with Chef Adán Medrano and Photographer JoMando Cruz on Thursday, November 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the World Heritage Center (3106 Roosevelt Avenue, 78214). 

Medrano will discuss his new “Texas Mexican Plant-Based Cookbook” featuring photography by JoMando Cruz. The event is free and open to the public. Books and tastings are limited.

“This book is a celebration of the deep connection between stories, culture, and food,” said Chef Adán Medrano. “Through these Indigenous Mexican American plant-based recipes, I hope to honor the ingredients that have nourished communities for generations and inspire others to see the beauty and wisdom in these traditional ways of cooking.”

Guests will have the opportunity to explore an outdoor exhibit showcasing the book's photography while enjoying tastings of flavorful recipes that highlight the cuisine and traditions from Coahuiltecan, Karankawa, Apache, and other Indigenous communities. Copies of the cookbook will be available for purchase, and attendees can meet Chef Adán Medrano and have their book signed. 

“We are thrilled to host this unique event that weaves together culinary traditions and cultural identity," said Colleen Swain, World Heritage Office Director. “Bringing together food, photography, and culture allows our community to experience the rich traditions of Indigenous Mexican cuisine in a truly immersive way.”

The World Heritage Center brings community stories to life, making it the ideal place to showcase how food connects across generations and honors heritage. Special thanks to the American Indians in Texas – Spanish Colonial Missions for their collaboration. 

The “Native Culinary Heritage” exhibit will be featured at the World Heritage Center from November 6, 2025 through February of 2026. All are welcome to explore the exhibitions and programs. 

World Heritage Center Hours of Operation

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

World Heritage information is available at WorldHeritageSA.com.

Information on the City of San Antonio’s World Heritage Office is available at SanAntonio.Gov/WorldHeritage.