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The best restaurants on the San Antonio Riverwalk vary, but if you need the greatest ones, I have got your back!
The Riverwalk is a treasure of Texas city with many colorful river parades. No wonder why it is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Texas.
You can go sightseeing, shopping, and better than that, enjoy many incredible foods on San Antonio Riverwalk, from American to Italian cuisines. Suppose you are ready for your next trip to San Antonio; you should not miss these restaurants to fully enjoy the festive vibe here.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s jump right into this article to check out the best selections of eateries in San Antonio.
Top 18 Restaurants To Try When Visit The San Antonio Riverwalk
Riverwalk is a perfect place for tourism. Therefore, you can find several Destination restaurants, a sort of restaurant that customers can travel to and enjoy the food.
And It might be challenging to decide where to eat on this Riverwalk because of the countless restaurants here. But it will no longer be your concern because these restaurants that I am going to introduce here are truly hidden gems.
Indeed, they not only offer delicious foods, but their prices are also reasonable, ensuring you will have the best experience when visiting here. You can enjoy different cuisines as well, like Tex-Mex, Mexican, Italian, or Brazilian. So what are they? Keep reading to find out!
1. Ocho
Let’s begin this list with a cozy restaurant that you can overlook the Riverwalk. Located in a historic hotel – Havana, Ocho restaurant is so beautiful with the glass-conservatory design.
They offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks heavily based on Latin, Mexican, and Texas cuisines. Therefore, you can find many food options at Ocho, and of course, they are insanely scrumptious.
Moreover, if you can drink, do not miss the bar downstairs to enjoy a few cocktails. They serve one of the best margaritas and tequila in the city. And for the most pleasant dinner (or any meal in a day), you should ask for a table to overlook the river when making a reservation.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Lounges, Latin American
Location: 1015 Navarro St Hotel Havana San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://havanasanantonio.com/
Phone: (210) 222-2008
Table Reservation:
2. Supper
Supper is another excellent option on the Riverwalk. Similar to Ocho, this restaurant is tucked inside a hotel named Hotel Emma. Supper owns an aesthetic look with a contemporary vibe, making it the most well-loved restaurant in this area.
Obviously, their food is outstanding, either they are meaty or vegetarian dishes. Flavorful, tasty, and not too pricey, everything is on point to make your trip unforgettable.
It is a chef-driven restaurant. And thanks to the brilliance and creativity of chef John Brand, his foods embrace all the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients to feature the most delicious American cuisines that can steal your heart from the first bite.
Do not forget to try the duck confit, smoked crispy quail, or cinnamon-flavored desserts here; you will be shocked by their tastiness. And please make reservations beforehand.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: American (New), Breakfast & Brunch
Location: 136 E Grayson St San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: http://supperatemma.com
Phone: (210) 448-8351
Table Reservation:
3. Casa Rio
Established in 1946, Casa Rio was the first restaurant opened in this area by Alfred F Beyer. Therefore, its long-standing reputation is unquestionable. In addition, it is also the largest restaurant patio where you can book venues and event spaces.
The restaurant is located along the riverside, so the customers can enjoy the fresh air and the view while consuming tasty foods. If you love live music, Casa Rio’s Mariachi band can also play songs based on your requests.
Moreover, Casa Rio takes advantage of the restaurant’s location. They create a new way to accommodate customers with dinner (or lunch) cruises. It means customers can sit on the boat, and it will float down the river to optimize your best experience in this place.
Regarding their foods, with a strong influence on Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines, Casa Rio delivers the best enchilada, tamale, chili, taco, etc. They have expanded their menu throughout the years, but their foods still keep the authentic flavors of their true heritage.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Location: 430 E Commerce St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.casario.com
Phone: (210) 225-6718
Table Reservation: Not available
4. Boudro’s
Boudro’s is a must-visit dining destination for seafood lovers in San Antonio. With its amazing lunches and dinners, this place is a favorite place of many locals.
They have both outdoor and indoor dining areas, but if you want to enjoy the river view.
Speaking of their menu, you will find the ultimate choice of Texan and Mexican foods made from high-quality local ingredients, such as Texas quail, steaks, or duck leg. For seafood, their blue crab tostadas or shrimp enchiladas are Boudro’s specials.
Guacamole is another specialty here. You might find many Boudro’s guacamole recipes on the internet, but none of them taste exactly the same as the one you order at Boudro’s. The waiter/waitress will make creamy dishes right on the table so you can see how they are made.
The beverage list here is also worth trying. The restaurant’s signature drink is Prickly Pear Margarita. This alcoholic drink is packed with flavors so you can hardly forget.
Price Range: $$$
Food Styles: American (new), Mexican, Seafood
Location: 421 E Commerce St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.boudros.com/
Phone: (210) 224-8484
Table Reservation:
5. Iron Cactus
Another Mexican-style dining place to try on the San Antonio Riverwalk is Iron Cactus. Founded in 1996, this restaurant has served many contemporary and award-winning dishes in Mexican cuisine. In particular, Iron Cactus is very famous for the best shrimp tacos in Texas.
They also have a Margarita bar where you can find more than 100 types of high-quality tequila cocktails that both visitors and locals love. In fact, the Iron Cactus bar has been in the Top 10 Tequila Bar in the USA. Their margaritas are amazing too, so do not forget to order one here.
Overall, Iron Cactus features a unique dining and drinking destination where you can both dig into the delicacies and captivating river views. This is also one of the best places for family, either for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: American (Traditional), Mexican, Bars
Location: 200 River Walk Ste 100 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://ironcactus.com
Phone: (210) 224-9835
Order Online:
6. Acenar
The most special characteristic of Acenar is its multi-level dining areas so you can have more choices to admire the sightseeing.
Lied along the banks of the San Antonio Riverwalk, at Acenar, you can try many tasty Tex-Mex foods under the umbrella-shade terrace, which indeed leaves an exceptional memory that you will never forget.
You can also overlook the Riverwalk from the indoor seating, thanks to the multi-level design with a spacious patio and balcony.
From the classic to contemporary dishes, such as tacos, corn tortillas, or tableside guacamole, Acenar ensures to offer perfect foods strongly infused with Mexican or Tex-Mex cuisines. Their menu is extensive with several unique dishes, for example, buttermilk fried oysters.
Moreover, it would be incomplete without a glass of margarita to accompany your food. So if you love cocktails, you should order one at Acenar. They also have a Happy Hour menu (from 3 to 6 PM) for lower-priced margaritas and foods.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Mexican, Tex-Mex, Bars
Location: 146 E Houston St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.acenar.com/
Phone: (210) 222-2362
Table Reservation:
7. Paesanos Riverwalk
Do you know what the to-die-for dish at Paesanos Riverwalk is? It is their signature Shrimp Paesano with juicy sauteed shrimp and pasta coated with tasty lemon-garlic sauce.
Not only that, Paesanos Riverwalk is a well-loved Italian dining spot in San Antonio for various dishes and various kinds of wine. If you are a seafood lover, their lobster bisque or stuffed shell dishes are also must-try ones.
They also have various best-seller dishes made from meat like chicken, veal, beef, or lamb. Looking for something fresh and green? In this case, you can order their Mediterranean salad or other special salad. They are so yummy!
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Italian, Wine Bars, Pizza
Location: 111 W Crockett St Ste 101 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.paesanosriverwalk.com
Phone: (210) 227-2782
Table Reservation:
8. Biga On The Banks
Here is another restaurant in the downtown area – Biga On The Banks. However, if you prefer the quiet bend of the Riverwalk, this location is an ideal place.
The restaurant’s owner is renowned chef Bruce Auden. They specialize in serving New American cuisine with many finest delicacies, from meaty dishes to sweet desserts.
The ingredients are best-picked from local suppliers, ensuring the freshest foods to maximize your satisfaction. Their menu is often altered based on seasonal ingredients. Some spot-on here are Lobster Ravioli and Sticky Toffee Pudding.
At Biga On The Banks, you can feel the fine-dining ambiance; therefore, their price is quite higher than other places on this list. But trust me, these foods are worth every penny.
Price Range: $$$
Food Styles: American (New), Desserts
Location: 203 S Saint Marys St Ste 100 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.biga.com/
Phone: (210) 225-0722
Table Reservation:
Order Online:
9. Schilo’s German
Schilo’s German is another age-old restaurant in San Antonio that was opened by Fritz Schilo. You can easily find this eatery on Commerce Street right in downtown San Antonio.
Their specialties are German delis such as Reuben sandwiches, Root beer, Split pea soup, and more. In general, Schilo’s German is the best place to try German cuisine in this area.
They are not only famous to tourists, but the locals also love this place. Besides being a nice casual dining spot (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner), Schilo’s German is also an ideal place to host events or parties, which can accommodate up to 250 people.
Price Range: $
Food Styles: German, Breakfast & Brunch
Location: 424 E Commerce St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://www.schilos.com
Phone: (210) 223-6692
Table Reservation: Call to book table
10. La Villita Cafe
La Villita cafe is a must-visit dining place in San Antonio for breakfast and brunch. Its homemade foods are fresh and tasty, like pancakes, tacos, eggs benedict, etc. Their location is also accessible in the Historic Arts Village, only a few steps from the Riverwalk.
The employee is extremely friendly. They deliver fast services and make you feel warm and welcomed. Another good thing is their reasonable price so you can have a pleasant experience here.
They have both outdoor and indoor seating with a relaxing atmosphere. So if you either need a cup of coffee, breakfast, snack, or quick lunch, La Villita Cafe is such a hidden gem that is waiting for you to explore.
Price Range: $
Food Styles: Cafes, Coffee & Tea, Breakfast & Brunch
Location: 418 Villita St Ste 900 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.lavillitacafe.com/
Phone: (210) 223-4700
Table Reservation: Not available
11. Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina
Craving some tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, or other classic Mexican and Tex-Mex foods, do not miss Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina. Thanks to their flavorful and yummy foods, this place has received many compliments from the locals and food critics.
Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina is incredible with a contemporary and colorful design. If you seek a funky place to eat, this spot will not let you down. They also have live music on the weekend.
They might be busy at the weekend but you do not have to wait to be seated for too long. Moreover, please note that the cafe is only open from Tuesday to Sunday, so make sure you will not miss them on your next trip to San Antonio.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Mexican, Tex-Mex, Bars
Location: 722 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://rosariossa.com/
Phone: (210) 223-1806
Order Online:
12. The Esquire Tavern
As the oldest bar in the area (opened in 1933), The Esquire Tavern is famous for its ancient yet cozy look with the longest wooden top bar. It is also one of the best 25 bars in the United States. Thus, the quality of their drinks is undoubted.
With cold beer, an extensive choice of cocktails, and fresh foods, The Esquire Tavern ensures the ultimately culinary experience. They also perform live music on special occasions.
In short, if you look for an old-school spot to enjoy drinks, it is a must-visit place. The restaurant is quite dark so it would be perfect for those who just want to sit down, have some conversations, and chill.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Burgers, American (Traditional)
Location: 155 E Commerce St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://esquiretavern-sa.com/
Phone: (210) 222-2521
Order Online:
13. Domingo Restaurant
Domingo is the epitome of South Texas cuisine, where you can celebrate your birthday, parties, or just a simple date with your loved person. Placed under the Canopy by Hilton, the restaurant itself offers a relaxing atmosphere that you can overlook the Riverwalk.
Their beautiful patio and customer-oriented hospitality will leave a good impression for sure. In addition, Domingo’s dishes are awesome too, from savory treats to scrumptious desserts.
Domingo’s happy hour is available from Monday to Friday (3 to 5 PM) with 2 to 3$ off for different food and drinks. On Sunday, you can enjoy a big pitcher of mimosa for only 25$ during the brunch hours.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Cocktail Bars, South Texas, Mexican
Location: 123 N St Marys St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://www.domingorestaurant.com/
Phone: (210) 404-7516
Table Reservation:
14. Yard House
Are you up for something cool like craft beer? Come to Yard House; you will not regret it. Besides San Antonio, this modern American bar is also a well-known dining spot in Fresno (CA) because of its fantastic foods and beers.
With an intensive list of craft and import beers, Yard House offers the best brews with the top quality, from local to over-the-world brewers. Imagine enjoying a glass of beer and listening to rock music or watching sports from the big TV screens. How awesome is it, right?
Yard House was founded in 1996 with a long tradition of making craft beer. Therefore, if you need a place to chill with your friend, I do not think there is any better place than Yard House. You can also find this popular eatery in Irving (Texas), and other areas.
Their food menu is tremendous too! You can order pizza, seafood, burgers, or vegetarian dishes here. I highly recommend trying their Truffle fries, Fried Mac and Cheese, or Poke Nachos. They are so yummy that I can hardly describe them in words.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: American (New), Bars, Vegetarian
Location: 849 E Commerce St Ste 409 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://YardHouse.com
Phone: (210) 354-3844
Order Online:
15. Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen
When walking in downtown San Antonio, it is hard to ignore this New Orleans-style restaurant specializing in seafood named Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen. Plus, their foods are attractive and delicious that you might want to come back for more.
The wide range of dishes here is made from super fresh ingredients to deliver high-quality foods. Oysters, catfish, and redfish are some of their favored treats. If you prefer something fresh and green, the Seafood Cobb salad is excellent.
At Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen, a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff are huge advantages. Plus, this place is not too crowded like other downtown restaurants, yet you can still watch the magnificent view of the Riverwalk.
For more information, there is a free valet parking nearby the restaurant. Then you can ask the restaurant to validate the parking for complimentary service.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Seafood, Desserts, Beer Bar
Location: 103 9th St San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://bourbonstreetseafoodkitchens.com/
Phone: (210) 301-0066
Order Online:
16. Saltgrass Steakhouse
If steak is your favorite dish, Saltgrass is the greatest location to eat. As an award-winning steakhouse with authentic Texas flavor, their Certified Angus Beef is a must-try specialty. You can even find this exceptional restaurant in Pearland (Texas), Irving, and many more places.
The steak here is cooked perfectly smothered in dressings and sauces. There are other options such as bread, soups, salads, or desserts that you should try. On the other hand, Saltgrass Steakhouse also has a customized menu to meet your request.
Another big plus of this place is the decoration. With a rustic design, you enjoy not only the tastiest steak but also the cozy atmosphere with a stunning view of the Riverwalk. Worth a try, right? Book a table here and bring your family to enjoy the immersive experience.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Steakhouses, American (Traditional)
Location: 502 Riverwalk San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://www.saltgrass.com/
Phone: (210) 222-9092
Order Online:
17. Nonna Osteria
Nonna Osteria is an upscale Italian-themed restaurant with great food and drink (especially cocktails and wine). Nestled in a beautiful Fairmount Hotel, this restaurant has a rustic and charming appearance that enchants you immediately right from the first look.
It is not a year-old restaurant. According to Chef Luca Della Casa, this is the place where you can devour a wide variety of dishes that have been passed down and inspired through generations.
At Nonna Osteria, you can enjoy the classic flavor of Northern Italian cuisine at its finest. The special dishes are lobster ravioli, wild boar pasta, and Pasta E Tartufo.
The service here is exceptional and prompt. The chef even comes to your table to check whether you are satisfied with the food. However, the restaurant is relatively small, so booking a reservation in advance is preferable.
Price Range: $$
Food Styles: Italian
Location: 401 S Alamo St San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://www.nonnaSA.com
Phone: (210) 224-8800
Table Reservation:
Order Online:
18. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chão is a renowned barbeque eating place in San Antonio that delivers high-quality meats and steaks in Rodízio style.
This style refers to a special way of serving. The waiter/waitress comes to the customer’s table with a big skewer of meat and a knife to cut and deliver the small meat piece right to their dining table.
So if you want to experience this authentic Brazilian style of restaurant service, you should not miss this steakhouse. Located right in the downtown San Antonio Riverwalk, Fogo de Chão offers many dining seating and private rooms to serve over 250 customers.
If you want to enjoy the whole view of the Riverwalk, you can reserve a table in the River Room, featuring 180-degree glass walls. Regardless of brunch, lunch, dinner, takeout, or delivery, you will find the best food and drink service with diverse menu options.
Plus, the Fogo bar also offers All-day Happy Hour to enjoy beer, cocktails, or wine at a bargain price. So are you ready to explore them on your next trip to Texas? If yes, save their phone number below to make a reservation.
Price Range: $$$
Food Styles: Brazilian, Steakhouses
Location: 849 E Commerce St Ste 393 San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: http://fogo.com
Phone: (210) 227-1700
Table Reservation:
Order Online:
Save This List For Your Next Trip To San Antonio!
The festive environment of the San Antonio Riverwalk always mesmerizes me. They are full of excellent options for sightseeing and shopping. Thus, it is undoubtedly a tourist attraction in Texas.
What’s more, dining in this area is also one of the best things to do here, so I hope my list is helpful for you to find out the best place to enjoy victuals.
Last but not least, if you know someone who is about to visit this place, send them this list so they can check these restaurants out. And if you have any opinion or want to share your experience in these places, please let me know in the comment section. Thank you and have a nice day.
