Two Cool Girls and the Antler
- Laisa Chavez Macias
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
(This article was written by Laisa Chavez Macias and was featured in the February 2026 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)
As we all ease our way into the second month of this new year and settle into the rhythm of life after the holidays, I can’t help but wonder if anyone else is already missing all the delicious foods we used to enjoy! January usually starts out with resets, resolutions, and restrictions, especially when it comes to mealtimes. By the time February rolls around, we have either fully committed or completely fallen off the wagon, am I right?
What if I told you there’s a perfect middle ground option available to us locally? You know, for those days we want to indulge but not overdo it. Or for my foodies who just love a great meal packed with flavor, but don’t have the time to cook, yet are still wanting that healthier option.
Well, WE DO!
Boca ChewLita prepared meals are one of Harlingen’s best kept secrets. It was started by Lita N. Garcia and her business partner and wife Sara in 2019 to focus on eating fresh cooked meals. Their meals mean less eating out, less giant portion sizes, and less processed foods. Instead, Lita created a menu that offers “good food” with “quality over quantity.”
Before I go any further, let me explain something that can be a little confusing. Boca ChewLita offers prepared meals, not meal prep. The food is all made fresh. The focus is on flavor and portion control. There is no counting of calories, macros, or carbs. Which is why I call this a happy medium. In our meeting Lita explained it perfectly when she said, “It’s a personal chef experience.”
Lita, a Harlingen native, graduated from TSTC culinary school and worked under chef Patrick Bower. As an artist she always struggled letting go of her work; however, food for her is an art form that she loves to share. As she put it, “Artist by nature, chef by nurture.” The many days spent in the kitchen with her grandmother fueled her interest in cooking, ultimately leading her to study the culinary arts.
Most creatives need a little or big push to get the ball rolling in the right direction though. By 2022, the girls had established a small but loyal following. Lita was still working full time, but Sara knew the side gig could be more. With her guidance, vision, support, and encouragement, they decided to give the business a name and go all in. Together they co-founded Boca ChewLita and built it from the ground up.
By now you have to be wondering, but where do I go to get it, girl?!
The suspense to share this is also killing me, because we have an exclusive.
Currently, Boca ChewLita is a prepared meal delivery service. HOWEVER, beginning on February 1st, they have partnered up with The Antler Café located inside the Elks Lodge. They will be offering a fresh tavern-inspired menu and opening it up to the public, not just for Elks Lodge members.
The partnership between Boca ChewLita and The Elks Lodge is something that they are all very excited about. The Elks volunteerism, supporting locals, and commitment to the community aligns perfectly with what Lita and Sara envision for their business as well. They have been welcomed with open arms and together, they are creating a space where you can just feel all the good vibes.
In addition to the regular hours at The Antler Café, the girls are already planning the first event. They will be having an intimate pre-Valentine’s Day dinner on Friday, February 13 with live music. You can purchase tickets at the Elks Lodge bar located at 1426 S. Commerce Street in Harlingen. Only 100 tickets will be sold in advance. Tickets cost $40 and may be paid for with cash or check. Seats will be reserved by time slot.
I’m super excited about this new chapter of Boca ChewLita, and I cannot wait for all the future events that they have planned at The Antler Café (such as Wildfire dinners!). If you haven’t already, make sure you give these girls a follow to stay in the loop.
Signing off until next time, your friendly local foodie, Laisa :)
Boca ChewLita Prepared Meals Delivery Service and Catering Facebook: Boca ChewLita Instagram: @bocachewlita
The Antler Cafe
Open Thursday through Saturday, 5 pm to 9 pm
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