Best Quality Daughter

About Best Quality Daughter

Best Quality Daughter is the brainchild of Chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, a seasoned chef and restaurateur known for her unique approach to Asian fusion cuisine. Jennifer first gained recognition when she collaborated on the creation of Hot Joy, an Asian fusion restaurant that opened in San Antonio in 2013. Through a series of pop-up dinners, Jennifer and her team refined the restaurant’s menu before transitioning into a full-service concept. The following year, in 2014, Hot Joy was named one of Bon Appétit’s top ten new restaurants in the country, cementing Jennifer’s reputation as a trailblazer in the culinary scene.

Jennifer’s journey didn’t stop there. In 2016, she decided to venture into something new. She opened Tenko Ramen, a fast-casual ramen spot located in the Food Hall at the Bottling Department of the Historic Pearl. As the first ramen-focused concept in San Antonio, Tenko Ramen introduced a new flavor profile to the city’s food scene and further showcased Jennifer’s commitment to creating fresh, innovative dining experiences.

The Inspiration Behind Best Quality Daughter

In 2018, Jennifer’s passion for culinary excellence and desire to give back to the community led her to create a new project. She recognized the underrepresentation of Asian-American female chefs in South Texas and wanted to create a platform for their stories and talents. In collaboration with fellow chef Anne Ng and artist Jennifer Ling Datchuk, Jennifer launched the concept for Best Quality Daughter through a series of pop-up dinners. These intimate events offered a taste of the Asian-inspired dishes that would soon become a core part of the Best Quality Daughter menu.

The pop-ups were incredibly successful, and the team’s creative and distinct approach to cooking resonated with many. Inspired by the positive feedback and demand for their dishes, Jennifer made the decision to move forward with opening a brick-and-mortar location.

Best Quality Daughter’s Permanent Home

Best Quality Daughter opened its doors at the historic Mueller House within The Pearl Brewery in San Antonio. The restaurant’s design pays homage to its rich cultural influences while embracing modern culinary techniques. The menu at Best Quality Daughter blends bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and innovative twists on traditional Asian dishes. The space itself invites guests to feel at home while enjoying a unique and vibrant dining experience that reflects the artistry and passion behind every dish.

At Best Quality Daughter, the team continues to push boundaries, combining the best of Asian flavors with a creative touch that has made the restaurant a favorite destination for both locals and visitors in San Antonio.

A Vision for the Future

Through Best Quality Daughter, Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin is not only sharing her culinary expertise but also promoting the voices of Asian-American female chefs and artists in the region. The concept celebrates the beauty of heritage and the power of food as a means to connect people, telling stories, and preserving culture. With her continued dedication to the craft, Jennifer has created a space that transcends dining—an experience that celebrates food, community, and the people behind it all.