In 2017, San Antonio was also designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, one of only two in the U.S. Its culinary heritage includes influences from Europe, Native American and Mexican, among others, earning it the name: Culinary Capital of Texas. Each wave of immigrants added a layer of flavor. If it is your first time to San Antonio or your tenth, here are the best restaurants in San Antonio.
27 Restaurants in San Antonio
Bohanan’s Prime Steak and Seafood
Boudro’s Texas Bistro
The Range Tuscan Italian: Steak Seafood Field
Tres Arcos in Mexico CEATY
The Range Tuscan Italian: Steak Seafood Field
Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails in the Hotel Contessa
Casa Rio
Ritas on the River
La Panaderia
The Paris Baguette
Paletería San Antonio
Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Los Barrios Mexican Restuarant
Ray’s Drive Inn
The Original Blanco Cafe
Rosario’s ComidaMex and Bar
Pharm Table Apothecary Kitchen
Archie’s Coffee Bar
Halycon in the Blue Star Complex
La Gloria
Mezquite in Pullman Market
Nicosi in Pullman Market
Isidore in Pullman Market
Brasserie Mon Chou Chou
Ladino
Best Quality Daughter
Downtown Bar Guide
Downtown and the Riverwalk
Centrally located in the heart of the city, Downtown San Antonio is home to the Riverwalk, the Alamo and many of the area’s hotels. In downtown, visitors will find a mix of offerings along the river or on street level.
Bohanan’s Prime Steak and Seafood
For the finest steak in San Antonio, Bohanan’s Prime Steak and Seafood serves dry-aged prime cuts. In an historic location, its dining room features rich wood details that serve as the backdrop to your special night.
Bohanan’s menu ts menu features steakhouse classics like French onion soup, crab cakes and escargot. Beef cuts include filets in several sizes, a ribeye and an NY strip.
There is more than beef on the menu, with lamb, red snapper and quail. Vegetables include white truffle oil steak fries, potatoes au gratin and lobster-creamed corn.
Bohanan’s offers over 750 labels in its wine cellar. Its cocktail menu offers classics like a French 75 or a Double Old Fashioned.
Located at 219 E. Houston St., Floor 2. Open Sunday to Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended.
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Boudro’s Texas Bistro
Since 1986, Boudro’s Texas Bistro has been one of my go-to restaurants on the River Walk. It consistently offers good service blended with its signature New American menu, with a nod to the best Texas ingredients.
To start, indulge in the tableside Guacamole where the server mixes up avocado, roasted tomato, Serrano peppers and orange juice. Then pair it with a cocktail, I recommend a Prickly Pear Margarita.
Stand-out Texas-inspired entrees include the Blue Crab Tostada and the Mesquite-Grilled Quail. There are several beef cuts on the menu, such as a 6-ounce filet and a 14-ounce grilled prime rib.
Located at 421 E Commerce St. It offers both indoor tables and tables on the River Walk. Open Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and reservations are recommended.
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Mexico CEATY
One of the new dining destinations in Downtown San Antonio, Mexico CEATY is on the river level of the San Antonio Rivercenter. With 20,000 square feet, including eight distinct dining and drinking venues, Mexico CEATY is the place for a quick drink, a sit-down meal or a taco to-go. In essence, it is a Mexican food hall.
Inside Mexico CEATY, diners will find a Ceviche Bar, Dos Cantinas, a Tequila and Mezcal bar, El Ultimo, a speak-easy Agave tasting room. There is el mercado with gifts and food to-go.
During my visit, I enjoyed a Cafe Olla at Dulce and Aroma, its panderia.
Tres Arcos
During my visit on its opening week, I dined at Tres Arcos, its full-service restaurant and bar. We started with its La Reserva Margarita. Then we added its Queso Flamedo, a cheese appetizer that is served in a cast-iron dish after it has been toasted on top.
I then sampled its tortilla soup, a rich chicken-and-chili broth with chunks of chicken, tomatoes and avocado, topped with tortilla strips. It was very satisfying on a chilly Spring day.
We finished up our meal with dessert: Tres Leches cake, a cake made with three types of milk.
Located at 849 E Commerce St. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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The Range Tuscan Italian: Steak Seafood Field
Located in the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk Downtown, San Antonio offers more than Tex-Mex and Mexican food. As is the case with The Range Tuscan Italian: Steak Seafood Field.
During my visit, I wanted to indulge in antipasto and sample as many appetizers as possible. I was dining with my fun cousin, so I ordered up a girl dinner.
We started with cocktails, I had a St. Germain Spritz since it is spring and I wanted something lighter than an Aperol Spritz. Then we ordered a slew, starting with the Tuscan-Spiced Steak Bites and the Tuscan Risotto Arancini, both filling appetizers.
We added some vegetables to the mix with the Signature Caesar Salad, with a dressing of hen eggs, white anchovies, Parmesan-Reggiano and house-made croutons. Then we added the Burrata di Bufala with tomato jam, fresh basil plus its oil.
Overall, our meal was the perfect mix of filling, not overwhelming. Just right for meeting friends and sharing over cocktails or wine. The Range menu also features fresh pasta, beef, seafood and chicken.
Located at 125 E. Houston St. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 4 to 9 p.m.
Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails in the Hotel Contessa
With seating on the River Walk, the Ambler offers indoor and outdoor dining. While enjoying my afternoon cocktail, I got to toast the newest couple on the River Walk. The Ambler is across from Marriage Island, the heart-shaped islet that celebrates weddings.
During my visit, I met friends for drinks and appetizers. We shared the Texas Guac and Queso with warm tortilla chips and salsa quemada. Then we sampled the Fried Green Tomatoes.
Located at 306 W Market St. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
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Casa Rio
Since 1946, Casa Rio has been serving steaming plates of enchiladas and nachos. It’s the original Tex-Mex restaurant on the Riverwalk. I’ve been visiting for decades, enjoying the speedy service and one of the atmospheric spaces in San Antonio.
Under the brightly colored umbrellas, I recommend you grab a table next to Riverwalk. There you can share some queso or guacamole and sip on a margarita while the riverboats float by.
Got a picky eater? Try a bean-and-cheese taco; my boys love them.
Located at 430 E. Commerce St. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Rita’s on the River
Located on the River Walk, Rita’s on the River offers a large outdoor seating area. It is known for its 21-ounce margaritas in a logoed glass you can keep.
Diners will find Tex-Mex platter, street tacos and enchiladas. Some entrees come with handmade tortillas.
Located at River Level, 245 E Commerce St. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Where to Eat Breakfast in Downtown San Antonio
San Antonio is a breakfast town. On the street level, you can find several places for breakfast.
La Panaderia
Serving breakfast all day, La Panaderia is known for its spiral croissants, used as a base for a waffle or French toast. Its coffee selection is also satisfying for breakfast, with barista drinks including café con leche. There are also mimosas on the menu.
Diners will find egg dishes, like El Mexicano or Ranchero Eggs Benedict. Its LP Waffle Croissant is made from a croissant and served with fresh berries and whipped cream.
Lunch includes freshly made tortas and ensalada bowls.
Several locations, the downtown location is at 301 E. Houston St. Open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Paris Baguette
New to the downtown San Antonio dining scene, the Paris Baguette is a French-inspired bakery and coffee chain open from dawn to late night. During my visit, I ordered a dessert to-go on my way back to my hotel.
Even as it inched toward closing time, this location was well-stocked, and the bakery items looked good. My cake was fresh and tasty. This is a solid option for coffee and baked goods from breakfast through late night.
Located at 205 E Houston St, San Antonio. Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. Friday and Saturday)
Paletería San Antonio
Steps from the Yanaguana Garden, kids will see the paleta because their adults. Mexican popsicles are fruit-forward and a cheap snack to keep the kids in a good mood.
Located at 510 S Alamo St., Unit 104. Open Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.
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San Antonio Market Square
This historic three-block outdoor plaza is lined with shops and restaurants. It is a frequent host to street festivals with food vendors and live music.
El Mercado features 32 specialty shops, and the Farmer’s Market Plaza section has an additional 80. It is the largest Mexican market in the U.S.
Located at 514 W Commerce St., San Antonio. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
Opened in 1941 by the Cortez family, the business is now run by the grandchildren. Inside, diners get a double dose with the year-round Christmas decorations and lights mixed with Fiesta decorations.
It’s a feast for the eyes and adds to the celebratory vibe. In the afternoons and evenings, strolling mariachis add to the bustling mix.
The Tex-Mex staples on the menu include huevos rancheros or chilaquiles. For the picky eaters, bean-and-cheese breakfast tacos please most. Breakfast is served all day.
For lunch and dinner, the platillos Mexicano is the way to go. Each offers Mexican classics, such as Chile rellenos, carnitas or chicken mole. Diners can also find an assortment of tacos, chalupas and flautas.
Sweet eaters will want to grab a bag of pan dulce (Mexican baked goods) from the bakery counter. There is a separate bar, next to the waiting area, for Mexican beer and cocktails.
Head to the back dining room to see a unique mural with family members and San Antonio celebrities. Their altar stays up year-round, too, honoring those the Cortez family has lost.
Located at 218 Produce Row in Market Square. Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. (11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Also owned by the Cortez family, La Margarita is the sister restaurant to Mi Terra. With indoor and outdoor seating, diners can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Market Square.
La Margarita features a range of seafood on its menu, from ceviche to fresh oysters on the half shell. It offers fried seafood platters and seafood tacos as well.
During my frequent visits, the fajitas always call my name, especially the beef fajitas platter that can be shared. There is also chicken, primavera and combo platters.
La Margarita also serves Tex-Mex combination platters. Its enchiladas are also a favorite, mine being the enchiladas verdes.
Located at 120 Produce Row in Market Square. Open from Sunday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (1o p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
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The Tex-Mex Icons
San Antonio is the epicenter of North American’s most popular fusion cuisine: Tex-Mex. A culmination of Mexican Ranchero cooking techniques, Spanish spices and German smoked sausage, with an eye towards local ingredients, like dairy.
Many of San Antonio’s best Tex-Mex restaurants opened a generation ago, with children and some grandchildren stepping into the role of owner. Tex-Mex staples include the crispy taco, beef fajitas, cumin-laden chilis, and queso.
Los Barrios Mexican Restuarant
This long-standing San Antonio favorite is known for its Tex-Mex comfort food, especially enchiladas, puffy tacos and hearty combo plates. The Matriarch of the Barrios family, Viola, started this restaurant chain in 1979, when she needed to support her family.
Known as the second location, Los Barrios started its life as a Dairy Queen, and patrons can still sit in the oldest part of the building. The family-owned restaurant offers a casual and friendly vibe where regulars host events at the restaurant.
If it’s your first visit, then consider the Botanas a la Mexicana, a collection of appetizers from flautas to empanadas de carne. Margaritas are always a good idea.
Los Barrios is famous for its puffy tacos, which I had on my last visit. Each is specially fried to puff, then filled with beef, chicken, beans or guacamole. Their fajitas are another favorite and come in beef, chicken or shrimp.
Other popular menu items include chalupas, enchiladas, quesadillas, and flautas. It also serves breakfast and features a kids’ menu.
Located at 4223 Blanco Rd., San Antonio. Open Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Ray’s Drive Inn
Discovered by Ray Lopez in 1956 when his masa accidentally puffed up when frying. Now a San Antonio icon, puffy tacos are filled with beef, chicken or beans.
Located at 822 SW 19th St. Open Tuesday to Thursday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Original Blanco Cafe
For decades, I’ve visited the Original Blanco Cafe. First with my grandfather, then with other family members.
The Original Blanco Cafe serves up the Tex-Mex platters heaped with refried beans and Mexican rice. It has been voted the best enchilada in San Antonio. Diners will find enchilada plates, carne guisada and chili rellanos. It also serves breakfast, with huevos rancheros, chiliquiles and breakfast tacos.
Located at 7934 Fredericksburg Rd. Open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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Southtown
Adjoining Downtown San Antonio, Southtown is home to the King William Historical District, a residential district dating back to the mid-1800s. It is also home to the Blue Star District, a contemporary arts district.
Rosario’s ComidaMex and Bar
On the edge of Downtown and Southtown, Rosario’s has delighted diners for over 30 years. In a neon hot pink dining room, Rosario’s serves a collection of Tex-Mex favorites and regional Mexican dishes.
Diners can start with house-made salsa, ceviche, or a plate of nachos. For entrees, they will find carne asada, chicken mole or several types of enchiladas.
Located at 722 S St Mary’s St., San Antonio. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday, 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It also features a rooftop bar for cocktails.
Pharm Table Apothecary Kitchen
Focusing on local ingredients, Pharm Table fuses Latin American, Asian and Mediterranean entrees on one menu. It also offers a tasting menu.
Located at 611 S. Presa St., San Antonio. Open Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday from noon to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Halycon in the Blue Star Complex
Part coffee shop, part breakfast and lunch spot, part happy hour and evening hangout. It has a laid-back vibe, with living-room furniture that entices customers to linger.
Located at 1414 S Alamo St #101, San Antonio. Open from Sunday to Thursday from 8 a.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Archie’s Coffee Bar
Archie’s sells coffee, cocktails, CBD-infused beverages and plant-based energy drinks. I stopped in for a vanilla latte that kept me warm on a chilly morning.
Located at 711 S. South Mary’s St. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Pearl
North of the Hotel Zone and the Alamo, cultural hounds head to The Pearl along the San Antonio River. The Pearl helped snag the city’s UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2017. It also features several restaurants on the Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
From the standout Tex-Mex classic La Gloria to the weekend farmers market to the Culinary Institute of America campus, eaters can get a whiff of what San Antonians savor at the Pearl.
Located at 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio.
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La Gloria
Overlooking the San Antonio River, La Gloria features a festive space with both indoor and outdoor seating. Drawing on the flavors of Mexican street food, this is one of the places I return to time after time for the consistently good food and welcoming atmosphere.
From Mexican raw bar classics like Ceviche or Aquachiles to a rainbow array of tacos like classics Al Pastor (a must for a first-time visit) to the Crispy Shrimp, the diners enjoy plates heaping with fresh ingredients. Other must include its diverse mix of eight different types of enchiladas.
La Gloria’s cocktails are a fun way to start a meal. From its classic margaritas to its mezcalita to mojitos and a full lineup of Mexican beers, it offers an extensive drinks menu.
Located at 100 E Grayson St, San Antonio. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Pullman Market
This foodie market mixes gourmet groceries with four different restaurants. It is also the spot to get a quick bite, like a sando, a scoop of ice cream and a cup of coffee.
There’s a bakery with delectable desserts, barista-made coffee, ice cream for the kids (and adults) and a large selection of cold bottled drinks.
During my many visits, I have found unique gifts, such as seasonal decor, like Dia de los Muertos or Fiesta-themed items. There is also a dried flower area with hand-tied bouquets.
Located at 221 Newell Ave., San Antonio. Open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. Friday and Saturday). Free to enter.
Restaurants in Pullman
In addition to a grocery store, Pullman Market offers four distinct restaurants. Three of which are on the Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
Mezquite
Mezquite celebrates the food of the Sonoran Desert. With soaring ceilings and tropical foliage in the main dining area, diners can enjoy a meal, a cocktail or a tasting.
From Mezcal-infused cocktails to ceviche to asado, or grilled items, the menu showcases ingredients like sunchokes or roasted beets, along with beef, fish and chicken. The Mezcaleria serves an all-day menu with grilled burritos, caramelos and tacos.
Mezquite offers Guac and Mezcal nights on Wednesday and Sunday. This 90-minutes experience guides diners through a mezcal and sotol tasting. They also made guacamole made-to-order.
Mezquite is on Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
Open Monday to Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m. All-day menu served at the Mezcaleria daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and weekend brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Nicosi
Nicosi serves an eight-course dessert tasting menu. The menu is crafted daily and includes four bites and four larger servings.
In a dining room that accommodates 20 diners, the final preparation and plating happen before diners.
Nicosi is on Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
Two seatings a day: 5:30 and 8 p.m., and reservations are a must. Located at the Karnes Street patio of Pullman Market.
Isidore
Isidore is the spot for a raw bar at The Pearl with oysters and aquachile on its menu. The entrees include Roasted Lion’s Mane Mushrooms and Embered Beets for those going meatless. Also, diners can find favorites like Red Snapper, Berkshire Pork and a couple of Wagyu cuts.
Isidore is on Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
Located at 221 Newell Avenue, San Antonio. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
Brasserie Mon Chou Chou
Diners enter the Brasserie Mon Chou Chou and are transported to France. Its three owners are from France who met in San Antonio. They wanted to share their food heritage with San Antonio, especially the food of their grandmothers.
Brasserie Mon Chou Chou is a classic French Bistro with menus from Brunch to After Dinner and even fancy cocktails. Bistro classics include Bavette avec Frites, Moules Marinieres and Poulet Roti.
During my visit, I enjoyed the weekend brunch. I ordered the Omelette Jambon Gruyere, a rich dish that will hold you until dinner. Be sure to save room for dessert, regardless of the time of the day. The same goes for the wine and cocktail list.
Located at 312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for brunch and 4 to 10 p.m. for dinner.
Ladino
As the Mediterranean restuarant at the Pearl, diners can enjoy the same high-quality food as the rest of the complex’s dining options. Starting with its cold and hot mezzes, you can enjoy Mediterranean staples like hummus, harissa and spicy feta.
Ladino’s pita is an addiction. Enjoy them with one of Ladino’s hot mezes, like Kofta. Other outstanding entrees include Saffron Chicken and Pork Souvlaki.
Ladino is on the Michelin’s 2025 Bib Gourmand list.
Located at 200 E Grayson St #100, San Antonio. Open Monday to Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 5 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Best Quality Daughter
Best Quality Daughter serves up New Asian-American Cuisine in a restored 100-year-old house. Find classics like potstickers and fashion dishes like Curry Guisada Dan Dan.
Located at 602 Avenue A, San Antonio. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Downtown San Antonio and its River Walk are an entertainment district.
The Menger Bar
For history buffs looking for a nightcap, the historic Menger Hotel serves up one of the best Bloody Marys. It is rumored that Teddy Roosevelt, U.S. President and founder of the Rough Riders, has been known to swagger up to the bar and nod to the barkeep after the tourists have moved on.
Located off E. Crockett St. Open daily from noon to 11 p.m. (midnight on Friday and Saturday)
Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub
Join the Sing-Along fun at Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub, a replica of the Irish original. The piano player knows all the classics and the fun goes into the wee hours.
Located at 200 S. Alamo St. Open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Esquire Tavern
Slip into an original Speakeasy from 1933 for the mixologist’s best concoctions, from the classics to modern cocktails. It also features the longest wood bar in Texas.
Located at 155 E Commerce St. Open Sunday to Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Hopscotch
This is a multi-media experience with interactive installations. Open for all, but the cocktails are inventive.
Located at 711 Navarro St. Ste. 100. Open Thursday to Monday with various hours.
Mad Dogs British Pub
On the River Walk, Mad Dogs British Pub is next to the Hyatt Regency and features live music.
Located at 123 Losoya St #19. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Texas River Bar
Overlooking the San Antonio River Walk, the Texas River Bar is also next to La Villita.
Located at 511 Villita St. Open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight.
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