Embark on a culinary adventure along the iconic Riverwalk in San Antonio, where a diverse array of restaurants awaits to tantalize your taste buds. From modern interpretations of traditional Mexican dishes to classic American steakhouses and cozy Italian trattorias, the Riverwalk offers a unique dining experience for every palate.
This guide introduces you to some of the finest eateries nestled along the picturesque banks of the San Antonio River, each promising an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a lively spot to enjoy with friends, the Riverwalk’s vibrant culinary scene has something to offer everyone.
1. Boudro’s on the Riverwalk: A Fusion of Texas Flavors
Boudro’s, a Texas bistro since 1986, is a cornerstone of the Riverwalk’s dining scene. This restaurant has gained fame for its tableside guacamole, a fresh mix of avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and serrano peppers. Their menu doesn’t stop there; it includes dishes like blackened prime rib, mesquite-grilled Texas quail, and gulf shrimp and grits. The ambiance here is a blend of comfort and sophistication, featuring limestone walls, leather booths, and a warm fireplace.
For those looking to dine al fresco, Boudro’s offers a charming riverfront patio. This setting provides an excellent viewpoint for the Riverwalk’s lively atmosphere. Diners can enjoy their meals while observing the bustling river scene. Boudro’s proximity to boutique hotels in San Antonio makes it a convenient choice for visitors seeking an authentic local experience.
Address: 421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 224-8484
Website: Boudro’s on the Riverwalk
2. Paesanos Riverwalk: Italian Elegance on the Water
At Paesanos Riverwalk, Italian cuisine is reimagined with a blend of tradition and innovation. The restaurant’s standout dish is Shrimp Paesano, a savory combination of jumbo shrimp, garlic butter, lemon, creamy sauce, and angel hair pasta. Other Italian favorites, such as veal marsala, chicken piccata, and grilled salmon, are also expertly prepared here.
The interior of Paesanos Riverwalk exudes elegance and sophistication, adorned with chandeliers, mirrors, and fine art. Its outdoor terrace, overlooking the river, provides a picturesque setting for up to 200 guests. The restaurant’s location is ideal for exploring the Riverwalk’s cultural and culinary attractions, including nearby boutique hotels that add to the charm of the area.
Address: 111 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 227-2782
Website: Paesanos Riverwalk
3. The Chart House Restaurant: Dining Above the Skyline
The Chart House Restaurant at the Tower of the Americas offers a unique dining experience with a 360-degree view of San Antonio. This venue stands out for its revolving floor, providing diners with an ever-changing cityscape. Specializing in seafood and steaks, the Chart House’s seasonal menu includes exquisite options like crab-stuffed shrimp, prime rib, and lobster tail.
The Chart House is more than just a restaurant; it’s a landmark of San Antonio’s dining landscape, combining exceptional cuisine with unparalleled views. It is an ideal destination for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience and is conveniently located near the Riverwalk’s array of boutique hotels.
Address: 739 E Cesar E Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 223-3101
Website: The Chart House Restaurant
4. Biga on the Banks: A Culinary Gem with Artistic Flair
Biga on the Banks is a testament to the culinary artistry of Chef Bruce Auden, a multiple James Beard award nominee. The restaurant offers a unique blend of American, European, and Asian influences, with standout dishes like roasted duck breast, braised lamb shank, and seared scallops. The menu is complemented by an extensive wine list, featuring over 300 selections.
The decor at Biga on the Banks mirrors its creative menu, boasting modern elegance with high ceilings, hardwood floors, and art pieces. The restaurant also offers an outdoor balcony with a view of the river, enhancing the dining experience. This dining spot, open for dinner daily, is a hub for both local food enthusiasts and visitors, situated near the Riverwalk’s boutique hotels.
Address: 203 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 225-0722
Website: Biga on the Banks
5. Ostra at Mokara Hotel and Spa: Seafood with a View
At Ostra, located in the Mokara Hotel and Spa, guests can savor fresh and sustainable seafood. The menu highlights include oysters, lobster, and crab, as well as other options like steaks, salads, and pasta. The restaurant’s beverage selection features a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers.
Ostra’s casual yet refined atmosphere, characterized by its contemporary and elegant design, provides a relaxing dining experience. The riverfront terrace, offering live music on weekends, is a perfect spot to unwind. Additionally, Ostra’s location within the luxury Mokara Hotel and Spa ensures that guests can enjoy a complete upscale Riverwalk experience.
Address: 212 W Crockett St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: (210) 396-5817
Website: Ostra at Mokara Hotel and Spa
6. Acenar: Modern Mexican Cuisine with Artistic Flair
Acenar stands out with its innovative approach to Mexican cuisine. Owned by renowned chef Lisa Wong, also behind Rosario’s Mexican Café y Cantina, Acenar brings a modern twist to traditional dishes. The menu is a vibrant array of choices like duck chalupas, chicken enchiladas, and pork carnitas, coupled with an assortment of soups, salads, and desserts. The drink selection, featuring margaritas, tequilas, and beers, complements the food perfectly.
The décor of Acenar adds to the restaurant’s appeal, with its colorful murals, sculptures, and paintings creating an inviting atmosphere. The riverfront patio dining offers a captivating view, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Riverwalk’s vibrant scene. Acenar’s blend of creative cuisine and lively ambiance makes it a must-visit spot for lunch and dinner, and their catering and delivery services extend their reach beyond the restaurant’s walls.
Address: 146 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 222-2362
Website: Acenar
7. The River’s Edge Café and Patio Bar: A Family-Friendly Retreat
The River’s Edge Café and Patio Bar offers a casual, family-friendly dining experience with a diverse menu. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant features an array of dishes including burgers, sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and Tex-Mex favorites like nachos, tacos, and fajitas. The beverage selection is equally diverse, ranging from coffee and smoothies to cocktails and beers.
The décor at The River’s Edge Café and Patio Bar creates a cozy, rustic ambiance with wooden furniture, brick walls, and a warm fireplace. The riverfront patio is an ideal location for enjoying live music and entertainment while dining. Open daily from early morning to late night, the café also provides catering and delivery services, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Address: 200 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 270-0786
Website: The River’s Edge Café and Patio Bar
8. Iron Cactus Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar: Contemporary Elegance
Iron Cactus Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar offers a contemporary and upscale dining experience. The restaurant’s menu includes sophisticated dishes like tequila lime shrimp, chipotle chicken, and grilled mahi mahi, alongside soups, salads, and desserts. Their margaritas, tequilas, and beers provide a perfect pairing for the meals, enhanced by a happy hour menu.
The décor at Iron Cactus is chic and stylish, featuring leather seats, metal accents, and a glass wall, providing an elegant dining atmosphere. The rooftop patio dining offers a spectacular view of the river and the city, adding to the restaurant’s charm. Iron Cactus, open for lunch and dinner daily, is also an excellent venue for private dining and catering events.
Address: 200 River Walk Suite 100, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 224-9835
Website: Iron Cactus Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar
9. Zocca Cuisine D’Italia: Authentic Italian Flavors
Located in the Westin Riverwalk Hotel, Zocca Cuisine D’Italia offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The restaurant serves rustic dishes from various Italian regions, like risotto, gnocchi, and lasagna, and also features steaks, salads, and pizza. Their selection of wines and cocktails perfectly complements the menu.
The warm and cozy atmosphere of Zocca, with its wood-fired oven, stone fireplace, and wine cellar, creates an inviting dining environment. The riverfront patio is a splendid spot for enjoying the scenic Riverwalk while savoring Italian delicacies. Zocca is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, providing room service and private dining options as well.
Address: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 444-6070
Website: Zocca Cuisine D’Italia
10. Saltgrass Steak House: A Rustic Steakhouse Experience
Saltgrass Steak House offers a classic American steakhouse experience. The menu features a range of hearty dishes, including prime rib, filet mignon, and sirloin steak, complemented by sides, salads, and desserts. The restaurant’s drink selection includes wines, beers, and cocktails.
The décor at Saltgrass reflects a rustic charm, with wooden furniture, antler chandeliers, and cowboy memorabilia. The riverfront patio is an excellent spot for enjoying the natural ambiance of the Riverwalk while dining. Saltgrass is open for lunch and dinner daily and offers catering and delivery services.
Address: 502 River Walk, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 222-9092
Website: Saltgrass Steak House
11. The County Line: A Barbecue Haven
The County Line is a barbecue restaurant known for its casual and fun atmosphere. The menu features classic barbecue dishes such as brisket, ribs, sausage, and chicken, along with a variety of sides, salads, and desserts. The drink selection includes sodas, iced teas, and beers.
The County Line’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music, games, and a gift shop. The riverfront patio offers a great view and the inviting smell of barbecue. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily and provides catering and delivery services.
Address: 111 W Crockett St #104, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 229-1941
Website: The County Line
12. Bella on the River: A Mediterranean Oasis
Bella on the River is a Mediterranean restaurant offering a cozy and intimate dining experience. The menu includes dishes such as paella, lamb chops, and sea bass, as well as soups, salads, and desserts. A selection of wines and cocktails is available, along with a happy hour menu.
Bella on the River’s charming décor, featuring stone walls, arches, and candles, creates a romantic ambiance. The riverfront patio is an ideal spot for enjoying the view and live music. Bella on the River is open for dinner from Monday to Saturday and offers private dining and catering services.
Address: 106 River Walk St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 404-2355
Website: Bella on the River
13. Q Kitchen | Bar: Fusion Cuisine at the Hyatt Regency
Q Kitchen | Bar, nestled in the Hyatt Regency Hotel, is a celebration of American, Texan, and Mexican flavors. The restaurant’s diverse menu includes brisket tacos, chicken and waffles, and queso fundido, as well as burgers, salads, and pizza. The drink options are equally versatile, with choices ranging from coffee and smoothies to cocktails and beers.
The atmosphere at Q Kitchen | Bar is casual yet modern, boasting a spacious and bright interior. The riverfront patio offers a refreshing setting to enjoy the view and breeze. With its convenient location in a four-star hotel, Q Kitchen | Bar is a prime spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, also offering room service and private dining options.
Address: 123 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 222-1234
Website: Q Kitchen | Bar
14. La Gloria: A Celebration of Mexican Street Food
La Gloria is a vibrant Mexican restaurant that brings the rich flavors of Mexico’s street food to the Riverwalk. Its menu is a colorful array of tortas, tacos, ceviche, and pozole. The restaurant’s festive atmosphere is complemented by an array of margaritas, tequilas, and beers, perfect for their happy hour offerings.
La Gloria’s décor is bright and festive, adorned with murals, flags, and lanterns, echoing the lively spirit of Mexican street festivals. The riverfront patio is an ideal spot to enjoy the views and live music, immersing diners in a truly authentic Mexican experience. Open for lunch and dinner, La Gloria also offers catering and delivery services, extending its reach to those who wish to enjoy its flavors from afar.
Address: 100 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX, 78215
Phone: (210) 267-9040
Website: La Gloria
15. The Esquire Tavern: A Historic Bar with Timeless Appeal
Established in 1933, The Esquire Tavern is a historic fixture on the Riverwalk, known for its eclectic mix of food and drinks. The menu features classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and fried chicken, along with a variety of soups, snacks, and desserts. The drink selection includes cocktails, wines, and beers, offering something for every taste.
The Esquire Tavern’s décor is a blend of vintage and eclectic styles, highlighted by a long wooden bar, a jukebox, and a unique collection of taxidermy. The riverfront patio provides a perfect setting to soak in the Riverwalk’s ambiance. Open for lunch and dinner, the tavern also offers private dining and catering services, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Address: 155 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX, 78205
Phone: (210) 222-2521
Website: The Esquire Tavern
Conclusion: Savoring the Rich Flavors of San Antonio’s Riverwalk
As our culinary tour along the San Antonio Riverwalk comes to a close, it’s clear that this vibrant walkway is much more than a scenic destination; it’s a haven for food enthusiasts. Each restaurant we’ve explored offers its own unique blend of ambiance, flavor, and culinary creativity.
From Acenar’s modern Mexican cuisine to the historic charm of The Esquire Tavern, and the innovative fusion at Q Kitchen | Bar, the Riverwalk caters to a diverse range of tastes and dining experiences.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these establishments promise not just a meal, but an experience that captures the essence of San Antonio’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.
The Riverwalk’s blend of dining options, coupled with the enchanting atmosphere of the river, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in memorable flavors and moments. As you plan your next visit, remember that each restaurant along this iconic path is ready to offer you a warm welcome and a taste of San Antonio’s best.
Hello! I’m Marcus Stoinis, a San Antonio-based writer and avid explorer of the vibrant cityscapes and serene landscapes that make this place truly unique.
Born and raised in the heart of Texas, I have always been fascinated by the rich cultural tapestry and historical depths of San Antonio. My writing journey began as a personal quest to discover and share the lesser-known corners of our city, the stories untold, and the experiences that make San Antonio more than just a destination.
As a traveler at heart, I believe every street, alley, and river bend in San Antonio has a story waiting to be told. Whether it’s exploring the historic missions, indulging in our famous Tex-Mex cuisine, or capturing the essence of lively festivals, I am always eager to narrate these experiences through my writing.
My work spans a variety of topics, from travel guides and restaurant reviews to in-depth articles about local history and events. My aim is to not just inform, but also inspire my readers to explore and appreciate the beauty and diversity of San Antonio.
When I’m not writing, you can find me strolling along the River Walk, enjoying a Spurs game, or planning my next local adventure. I believe that to truly understand a place, you must immerse yourself in its culture, and that’s exactly what I aim to do every day.
Join me on this journey as I share my insights, experiences, and love for San Antonio. Let’s uncover the stories that make this city not just a place to live, but a place to experience, enjoy, and cherish.