Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants
All of the restaurants on the River Walk offer a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Take a break and soak in the beautiful views while you dine along the world-famous River Walk. Keep in mind that almost all the restaurants on the River Walk offer Texas-sized portions to make sure you and your guests get the most bang for your buck. From fine dining to BBQ, to Tex-Mex, all of the restaurants on the River Walk offer an abundance of choices to suit your taste and budget.
Whether you are dining along the River Walk or Downtown, there is a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. From BBQ to Tex-Mex, Downtown San Antonio offers an abundance of choices to suit your taste and budget. Be sure to enjoy one of the many dining experiences at one of these fine San Antonio River Walk restaurants.
Here are our picks for the top 7 Best San Antonio Restaurants on the Riverwalk:
1. Boudro’s Texas Bistro
421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205 – (210) 224-8484
Cuisine: American Restaurant
Price:$$$$
Boudro’s Texas Bistro is a downtown San Antonio favorite. It’s located right on the River Walk and serves up some of the best Tex-Mex food in the area. This restaurant offers a unique twist on classic dishes such as enchiladas, fajitas, and tacos. The atmosphere is romantic, with cozy lighting and a view of the San Antonio River. The servers are friendly and knowledgeable, making it a great place to take a date or celebrate a special occasion. The margaritas are strong, the chips and salsa are always fresh, and the portions are generous.
Boudro’s has all the flavors of the regional heritage with a menu full of Texan and Southwest flavors. They specialize in everything from smoked shrimp enchiladas to blackened prime ribs to seafood right out of the Gulf. Las Palapas Mexican Café offers diners a complete menu of original Mexicano comida. It is the best place to find original Mexican food or Texas’ famous blend of Tex-Mex.
Boudro’s is an experience to savor, embracing all the flavors of our regional heritage with a distinctive menu of Texas and southwestern specialties.
2. Paesanos Riverwalk
111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 227-2782
Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$$$
Paesanos Riverwalk is a popular Italian restaurant located on the San Antonio Riverwalk. It features a cozy, homey atmosphere and an extensive menu of Italian dishes, such as pastas, pizzas, and seafood. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, featuring both Italian and local wines. The outdoor patio seating offers a beautiful view of the Riverwalk, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The combination of delicious Italian food, cozy atmosphere, and stunning views make Paesanos Riverwalk a favorite among both locals and visitors.
A San Antonio icon, Paesanos River Walk is where locals and visitors alike come to kick back, celebrate and enjoy a hearty, Mediterranean-inspired meal. This is an Upscale destination with traditional & contemporary Italian fare, a long wine list & outdoor dining.
3. Iron Cactus
200 River Walk Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 224-9835
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Price:$$$$
Iron Cactus is a great spot to enjoy Mexican cuisine and drinks on the River Walk. They offer a great selection of Mexican dishes and drinks, as well as a large outdoor patio that overlooks the river. The menu boasts favorites from traditional tacos, enchiladas, and burritos to unique creations such as the Spicy Mango Margarita and house–made guacamole. The atmosphere is just as vibrant and fun as the food, with a lively and vibrant staff ready to chat and serve up tasty drinks and meals. Iron Cactus is a great location for a casual lunch or a lively evening out with friends.
Iron Cactus is one of few award-winning Mexican restaurants in San Antonio and is known for unique tequila-infused creations and over 100 premium tequilas, you can sip or have mixed into margaritas and Mexican martinis.
From our lovely brick patio, take in the sights and sounds of the River Walk! The patio is one of the largest on the River Walk, separated from foot traffic by a large stone planter box and shaded by trees. This is a laid-back setting with plenty of San Antonio flair. The Iron Cactus combines traditional Mexican ingredients with a modern cooking technique to create distinct and flavorful dishes. Our signature “El Agave” margarita has been voted best margarita and has been named one of the top ten tequila bars in the country.
4. The Republic of Texas Restaurant
429 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205; (210) 226-6256
Cuisine: Texan (BBQ Tex-Mex & American)
Price: $$$$
The Republic of Texas Restaurant is a great spot to enjoy classic American cuisine on the River Walk. With a menu full of traditional favorites, such as burgers and fries, as well as modern twists on classic dishes, guests are sure to be delighted. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of craft beers and wines. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with a staff that is friendly and helpful. The Republic of Texas is a great spot to enjoy a casual lunch or a lively evening out with friends.
The Republic of Texas Restaurant offers a variety of dining experiences to make your visit to San Antonio, Texas a memorable one. The Republic of Texas Restaurant is open daily, Monday through Sunday. Enjoy a bountiful breakfast along the beautiful San Antonio River with our Six Flags Over Texas Breakfast Menu, our extensive lunch and dinner menu include such items as the Gigantic El Grande Mexican Plate, Half pound burgers, Sizzlin Fajitas, and our colossal 46 oz. Margarita served in a souvenir take-home glass and much…much…more.
5. Esquire Tavern
155 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 222-2521
Cuisine: American
Price: $$$$
The Esquire Tavern is an iconic stop on the San Antonio River Walk. This restaurant has been around since 1933 and has a classic, old-school feel. The menu is full of classic pub fares such as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The bar has an extensive selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and there is often features a modern, contemporary setting and an extensive menu of seafood dishes, such as oysters, crab, and shrimp. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, featuring a selection of local and international wines. The outdoor patio seating offers a stunning view of the Riverwalk, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or an evening out with friends. The combination of modern atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent wines make Ostra a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Crafted cocktails and fine food. Jeret Pena, our award-winning bartender creates and serves the best cocktails in the City! Our Chef, Brooke Smith has been named one of the upcoming chefs to watch in San Antonio.
The Esquire Tavern, located directly on the world-famous San Antonio Riverwalk, is as authentic a slice of this city as you will ever find. The Esquire, said to be the oldest bar in town, has a reputation for always being packed with a diverse cross-section of the community. The weathered and character-filled bar is surrounded by saloon-style leather chairs and bold vintage wallpaper, with antique low-hanging ceiling fans cooling it down.
6. Las Canarias at the Omni La Mansion del Rio
112 College St, San Antonio, TX 78205; (210) 518-1063)
Las Canarias at the Omni La Mansion del Rio is a perfect spot to enjoy a romantic evening out on the River Walk. Boasting a stunning view of the river and a menu that changes seasonally, guests are sure to be delighted. The menu is full of modern takes on classic Tex-Mex dishes, such as the wood-fired Gulf Coast Red Snapper and the Mesquite-Grilled Pork Chop. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, as well as hand-crafted cocktails to enjoy. The ambiance is cozy and warm, and the staff is attentive and friendly.
7. Zocca
420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 444-6070
Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$$$
Zocca Cuisine D‘Italia is a wonderful spot to enjoy Italian cuisine on the River Walk. Featuring a menu full of delicious dishes, such as the Italian seafood stew and the seafood risotto, guests are sure to be delighted. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, as well as hand–crafted cocktails to enjoy. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, and the staff is attentive and friendly. Zocca is a great spot to enjoy a romantic evening out or a fun night with friends.
This authentic Italian restaurant provides an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Zocca, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is sure to satisfy your cravings for a fresh salad or a rich pasta dish. Furthermore, gluten-free guests are not excluded from the Italian fun! Gluten-free options at Zocca include pancakes, pasta, and flourless chocolate cake.
Below is a list of all the rest of the restaurants on the River Walk.
Acenar
146 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 222-2362
Cuisine: Contemporary Mexican
Price: $$$$
Lisa Wong (of Rosario’s fame) launches the most innovative contemporary Mexican restaurant and bar on San Antonio’s River Walk. Patrons will enjoy Texas regional Mexican dishes along with tantalizing tastes inspired by the history and heritage of Mexico and Texas.
I wanted to go to a Mexican restaurant that served modern dishes as well as traditional Tex-Mex fare. When we arrived, however, the menu was severely lacking in such items and lacked the fish dishes that I had seen on the menu when I chose the restaurant. The menu was mostly what you’d expect to find at any Riverwalk Mexican restaurant. It’s a lovely restaurant, and the service was excellent, especially given how busy it was. We got the mixed grill for two, which included beef, chicken, pork, and sausage.
Biga on the Banks
203 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 225-0722
Cuisine: American Restaurant
Price:$$$$
In close proximity to San Antonio Riverwalk hotels, as well as the Convention Center, Biga on the Banks is the perfect place to get away and enjoy a different kind of fine dining experience.
Biga on the Banks, named one of the “top five restaurants in Texas” by Gourmet Magazine, serves fine dining with a Texan twist. Enjoy Chef Bruce Auden’s inventive cuisine, which includes seafood, Texas lamb, game, and beef, while admiring the River Walk views. Private dining rooms with river views are available, as is barge dining.
Cafe Ole
521 River Walk, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 223-2939
Cuisine: Mexican Food/Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
The Place to come to satisfy your cravings for delicious Mexican cuisine, the home of the Ultimate Fajita and the 60 oz Margarita. A perfect festive atmosphere!
Cafe Ole, known for its Ultimate Fajita and 60oz Margarita, is located in the heart of the action. We are located between the Hilton Pilacia Del Rio Hotel and the Hyatt Regency. We have a multi-level patio with beautiful river views. It’s the ideal spot to stop for lunch, dinner, or happy hour after meandering along the river. Dine outside in the heart of the action while staying cool with our misting fans, or choose a cozy table inside and enjoy air conditioning.
Casa Rio
430 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 225-6718
Cuisine: Mexican Food/Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
Casa Rio was the first San Antonio business to open its doors to the River and take advantage of the River’s setting. Canoes, gondolas, and paddle boats, evolving into tour and dinner boats, began here and helped create the Riverwalk of today.
Watching the river flow by with a margarita in hand is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in San Antonio, and you can do just that at Casa Rio. Since 1946, the restaurant’s colorful umbrellas have lined the River Walk, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for sampling enchiladas, flautas, fajitas, and, of course, icy-cold margaritas. Casa Rio, the riverfront’s oldest restaurant, is well-known for its authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, but its true charm lies in its atmosphere. Request an outdoor table and let your worries float down the river with you. Just make a decision between frozen and on the rocks first.
Dorrego’s
150 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 230-8454
Cuisine: Varies
Price: $$$$
Among San Antonio’s best dining options, the completely reimagined Dorrego’s restaurant stands out for its exquisite, imaginative menu. Dine on distinctive culinary creations while overlooking the scenic River Walk.
Dorrego’s, the new restaurant at the Valencia Hotel, demonstrates that some hotel restaurants can shine. Although Latin flavors are common in San Antonio, Dorrego’s serves Argentinean cuisine, which is uncommon in the Alamo City. Chef Mesa traveled to Argentina and returned with new ideas, incorporating authentic ingredients into his cuisine. Begin your meal with Mexican street corn and the Proveleta Flamado a la Mesa, a grilled Argentian provolone flamed with tequila. The entree options are diverse, elegant, and delectable, including gulf prawns (head-on), duck empanadas, grilled octopus, TX pig meatballs, smoked short rib ravioli, and more.
County Line Bar-B-Q
111 W. Crockett Street, #104, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 230-8454
Cuisine: American/BBQ
Price: $$$$
A great place to enjoy a plate of legendary Texas bar-b-q and an ice-cold beer or margarita. The County Line River Walk features an awesome riverside patio and open-air bar.
The County Line has been serving the biggest, leanest, most consistent barbeque in San Antonio since 1975. But that’s only half of the story. Our relaxed Texas settings are as unique and legendary as the food We serve, whether it’s out on the patio of I-10 or right down on the Riverwalk! In fact, the barbeque is so delicious that you’ll want to “GET IT ALL OVER YA!”
Dicks Last Resort
223 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 224-0026
Cuisine: American
Price: $$$$
Dick’s Last Resort is a small bar and restaurant chain in the United States, known for its intentional employment of an obnoxious staff.
Dick’s Last Resort is a San Antonio dog-friendly restaurant with “servers who dish out good grub, cold booze, and heaping helpings of sarcasm.” Dick’s has plenty of outdoor tables for dog owners who want to eat Redneck Fondue alongside Fido. The menu includes finger foods like BBQ Nachos, Fry’D Pickle Chips, Don’t Be ‘Shell-Fish’ Dip, and wings, as well as burgers, sandwiches, salads, chicken dishes, seafood, rib plates, and more. If you have room for dessert, try a Chocko Chunk Cookie Sundae or Not-Yer-Cheesecake. Mama’s
Hard Rock Cafe
111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 224-7625
Cuisine: American
Price: $$$$
Rock ’n’ roll-themed chain with a high-energy vibe serving burgers & American classics. “Remember the Hard Rock!” While we’ve never been under siege like Davy Crockett and his men, we always strive to be memorable here in Texas.
Hard Rock Cafe is located on the city’s famous River Walk, Texas’s number one tourist destination, and has three floors of patios where you can relax and enjoy the great Texas weather and picturesque views of the San Antonio River and its slow-moving tourist barges.
La Gloria Ice House
100 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215; Phone: (210) 267-9040
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Price:$$$$
La Gloria means “the heavens”, and our wish is that you experience heaven on earth through dining with us. Remember, “No hace falta morir para llegar a la Gloria.”(“You don’t have to die to go to heaven.”)
The usual enchiladas and combo plates have been replaced by what chef-owner Johnny Hernandez refers to as Mexican street foods. More surprising is that La Gloria’s location is not the expected, Hispanic-friendly West Side, but rather a decidedly more Anglocentric neighborhood north of downtown.
Landry’s Seafood Restaurant
517 N Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 229-1010
Cuisine: Seafood
Price: $$$$
Nestled along the beautiful River Walk in Downtown San Antonio, Landry’s Seafood restaurant is a Texas Gulf Coast legend. A refreshment from Landry’s extensive drink menu is the ideal complement to an evening overlooking the water, and a dinner featuring fresh seafood, succulent steaks, and mouthwatering desserts is the perfect highlight to an exciting day in San Antonio.
After dining at this restaurant, you can expect a walk with a view of The Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum. Landry’s Seafood House’s Creole cuisine menu offers authentic cuisine. Perfectly cooked sea bass, fried seafood, and chili are available here. Good creme brulee, triple chocolate cakes, and key lime pie are all worth a try. Delicious Sangria, martinis, and chardonnay may entice you to return to this establishment. Many visitors order excellent cappuccinos.
Lone Star Café
237 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 223-9374
Cuisine: American
Price: $$$$
A Texas-style steakhouse on the River Walk. Take a bite of a 12 oz. Abilene T-Bone and wash it down with buckets of your favorite beer.
Lone Star Cafe, located in the heart of the San Antonio Riverwalk, has been serving tourists and locals alike since 1981. Lone Star Cafe is the place to go if you want a tender, delicious, flame-grilled steak or a juicy hamburger. Our balcony seats and outside bar, located on the street level, offer stunning views of the Riverwalk. Remember that everything is bigger in Texas, so saddle up and bring your Texas appetite!
Luciano Ristorante Italiano
Rivercenter Mall, 849 E Commerce St #157, San Antonio, TX 78245; Phone: (210) 226-7295
Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$$$
The Luciano’s experience—inspired by Nonna Lina & Nonno Salvatore From our complimentary bruschetta to our comfortable family atmosphere, you can see the influence of our loving parents.
Mad Dogs British Pub
Cuisine: British
Price: $$$$
The Pub that thinks it’s a Club. We are located right on the RIVERWALK. Unlike other SAN ANTONIO BARS & CLUBS, MadDogs is an AUTHENTIC BRITISH theme pub.
Mexican Manhattan
Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
Nestled in the corner overlooking a junction in the San Antonio River, you’ll find the Mexican Manhattan Restaurant – San Antonio’s finest Mexican food restaurant.
Michelinos
Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$$$
Casual spot serving classic Italian fare, wine & cocktails, with happy hour & patio dining.
Ocho at Hotel Havana
1015 Navarro St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 222-2008
Cuisine: Pan-Latin
Price: $$$$
Inspired by the union of old and new worlds, Ocho at Hotel Havana offers two unique spaces for dining and drinks on the Museum Reach of the River Walk in San Antonio. Pan-Latin fare, mojitos & old-world charm in a chic riverside restaurant & lounge in Hotel Havana.
Ocho’s is a hidden gem located inside the beautifully renovated Hotel Havana. This Cuban-inspired restaurant and bar is a local favorite because of its delicious food and laid-back atmosphere. Tapas and drinks are available in either the upstairs dining room or the downstairs lounge. If you eat in the upstairs dining room, you can choose between outdoor and indoor seating. The menagerie-style glass room is a beautiful setting for Ocho’s famous Cuban sandwich. Downstairs, leather chairs and velvet couches provide a more intimate meeting space. Come in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack!
Original Mexican Restaurant
Cuisine:Mexican/Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
The Original Mexican Restaurant has been on the River Walk since 1988, making it the third-longest-standing Mexican Restaurant on the River Walk.
Paloma Riverwalk
Cuisine:Mexican/Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
Set on the most charming stretch of the Riverwalk, La Paloma provides indoor and riverside seating, a view of one of the most scenic pedestrian bridges, and the shade of sprawling Cypress and Magnolia trees.
Ostra on the River Walk
Cuisine: Seafood
Price: $$$$
Enjoy exquisite cuisine in a romantic riverfront locale at our signature AAA four-diamond restaurant, recently awarded Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.
Rainforest Cafe
Cuisine: American
Price: $$$$
A Wild Place to Shop and Eat. Part adventure, part restaurant and wholly entertaining for the whole family, the Rainforest Cafe re-creates a tropical rainforest with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and indigenous creatures.
Rio Rio Cantina
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
Every day Rio Rio Cantina is serving Fresh Tex-Mex dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Established in 1989 and located on the San Antonio River Walk, Rio features spacious patios with unbeatable views of the River Walk. Start your day with a hearty Mexican breakfast. Chilaquiles is a popular choice! Breakfast is served until 1 p.m. Rio Rio Cantina’s lunch menu is served until 3 p.m. and features $9.99 daily lunch specials.
Rita’s
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Price: $$$$
Casual Tex-Mex eatery & bar with margaritas, fajitas, veggie options, river views & mariachi music.
Saltgrass Steak House
502 Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 222-9092
Cuisine: American/BBQ
Price: $$$$
For campfire-style Texas fare, head to Saltgrass Steak House – the original Texas Steakhouse serving Certified Angus Beef ® steaks. Entrées include Pat’s Ribeye, Maudeen’s Center Cut Filet, Gulf Coast Steak and Shrimp, Chicken Fried Steak, and BBQ Baby Back Ribs.
If there is one thing that the River Walk is known for, it is unquestionably the food. From Mexican to American to Italian cuisine, the San Antonio River Walk has something for everyone! This downtown culture hotspot has a mix of classic and lesser-known local establishments. We’ve presented some of our favorite spots, including a few that are off the beaten path.