The Friendly Spot & Make Ready: and Small Business Champion and Community Builder
Episode 8 of Better Futures with Beto Altamirano celebrates two trailblazing entrepreneurs in San Antonio’s food and beverage scene: Zach Garza, owner and chef at Garaje Cantina and Garza Brothers Hospitality, and Jody Newman, co-founder and “Chief Friend” of The Friendly Spot Ice House. Together, Zach and Jody share how their work in the hospitality industry strengthens community bonds and promotes equity, creativity, and connection.
Meet Zach Garza: Chef, Innovator, and Advocate
Zach Garza’s culinary journey is a testament to the power of food as a unifier. At Garaje Cantina, Zach blends traditional Latin American flavors with modern culinary techniques, creating dishes and frozen cocktails that honor his heritage and reimagine nostalgic flavors. His inspiration comes from his Mexican grandmother, whose love for cooking shaped his passion for food and hospitality.
But Zach’s work extends far beyond the kitchen. Through Garza Brothers Hospitality and managing @makereadymkt, he’s leading efforts to redefine the hospitality industry by championing sustainability, equity, and meaningful community connections. Zach views every plate, every drink, and every interaction as an opportunity to make a positive impact—on both individuals and San Antonio as a whole.
Meet Jody Newman: Small Business Champion and Community Builder
For the past 15 years, The Friendly Spot Ice House has been a cornerstone of San Antonio’s Southtown neighborhood, thanks to the vision and dedication of Jody Newman and her husband, Steve Newman. As co-founder and “Chief Friend,” Jody has nurtured The Friendly Spot into more than a business—it’s a beloved gathering space where people from all walks of life come together to share food, drinks, and memories.
Jody believes in the transformative power of small businesses to shape the identity and culture of a city. She uses her platform to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs through Launch San Antonio (@launchsatx), offering guidance, resources, and encouragement to those working to turn their ideas into reality.
For Jody, community is at the heart of her work. The Friendly Spot isn’t just a place to grab a beer or enjoy the patio; it’s a hub for connection, where people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired.
What We Can Learn from Zach and Jody
Both Zach and Jody are redefining what it means to be leaders in the food and hospitality industry. Their dedication to community-building, sustainability, and cultural representation highlights the immense potential of small businesses to spark lasting change. From Zach’s innovative culinary creations to Jody’s commitment to mentorship and gathering spaces, they remind us that food and hospitality are about more than sustenance—they’re about connection and belonging.
This episode is a must-watch for anyone who dreams of making an impact in their community, whether through food, business, or simply a friendly gesture.
🎥 Don’t miss Episode 8 of Better Futures!
📍 Join us in exploring how these leaders are shaping the future of San Antonio, one plate and one connection at a time.
