Stretching 15 straight miles of streets is the Riverwalk – one of the most famous tourist destinations located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas.
Every year, millions of tourists flock to this beautiful city which consists of a combination of adventure trips, modern urban ecosystems, and historical value.
Thanks to its gorgeous landscape, public art, bridges, architectural marvels, and walk, the awe-inspiring Riverwalk is a delight among tourists and locals alike.
The Riverwalk was built initially as a project to contain potential floods, however, it is now a vibrant location that has plenty of attractions including the Alamo and various museums, too.
Since everything is all in one place, tourists are scarce with opportunities to experience their favorite foods on a table beside the river or even cruise along the river in a boat with their loved ones.
That said, with the sheer amount of choice available, choosing the best restaurant can be somewhat overwhelming.
With this in mind, this article aims to provide you with 16 of the best restaurants that you need to visit while on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas.
The Best Restaurants On The Riverwalk
With so many restaurants competing against one another, it can sometimes be overwhelming to choose the best one for you and your family – with all of them offering amazing cuisines.
To help you make the right decision, we have outlined some of the best restaurants on the Riverwalk to ensure you receive only the best dining experience while in San Antonio, Texas.
1. Boudro’s
Famous and treasured among both residents and tourists alike, Boudro’s is a go-to restaurant while in the area.
Here, you can enjoy warm and inviting hospitality while looking out onto the banks of the Riverwalk, on the barge floating off the river, or inside the cozy interior.
At this restaurant, the artistic chefs are known to use only the freshest and local ingredients to provide your tastebuds with an explosion of flavors.
Hence, the restaurant tends to be fully booked every night as a result of serving some of the best dishes and hospitality available.
That said, if you do manage to make a reservation, you sure won’t regret it.
The restaurant itself is famous for its professional wine cellar, frozen margaritas, and exceptional dishes, including mesquite-grilled Texas Quail, black lacquered Duck Leg, Shrimp and Crab Enchiladas, and papaya-marinated Flank Steak, all of which make it an exquisite experience.
If you love everything about Texan culture, then this is a must-see place for you. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
2. Acenar
San Antonio is a city known for blending various cultures and people together. Hence, no place is better at replicating and displaying this melting pot of communities than Acenar.
Here, the restaurant and bar specialize in something called modern TexMex.
You don’t have to worry about any dishes lacking flavor here, the whole menu is packed with delicious aromas and smells that are sure to excite the senses.
That said, two dishes that have received particularly glowing reviews include the chalupas and tacos.
Plus, there are many options for vegetarians here, too, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on any of the fun.
Non-meat eaters can enjoy some amazing food, including vegetarian Relleno, roasted mushroom and squash served fajita-style, and enchiladas.
Looking for the perfect beverage to accompany your meal? Then look no further than their selection of Latino-inspired cocktails.
Here, the star of the show is the coconut margarita – with each sip, you’ll be imagining yourself on some tropical island in the Mediterranean.
Besides the food, there is much to enjoy, too. For instance, you can relish the gorgeous views on the Riverwalk below, the outdoor seating area, and the multiple stories decked in festive decor.
3. Supper
Located in Hotel Emma, the restaurant Supper is known for providing a culinary experience like no other. Here, they take food to the next level.
Every dish is packed with farm-fresh ingredients that make the flavors stand out. One of the dishes you can’t miss is the Duck Confit which is served with a delicious herb salad.
In addition to this, they offer a range of clear spirit cocktails that have been carefully crafted to make for an unforgettable experience.
From the outdoor patio, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Riverwalk. Plus, with the excellent ambiance of the restaurants, as well as amazing service from the incredible staff, you’re sure to be in for a wholesome time.
4. Biga On The Banks
Along the San Antonio Riverwalk, there are tons of casual dining restaurants where you can take the whole family, however, Biga on the Banks trumps all of these restaurants thanks to its adventurous New American cuisine and elevated atmosphere.
The menu here changes on a regular basis with the professional input of the chefs, however, whatever is on the menu, you’re sure to be in for a treat. Fan favorites include the quail, bouillabaisse, and rack of lamb.
If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, then you can even choose the Biga’s prix fixe seasonal menu. Here, you’ll find three customizable courses with the option to add complementary wine pairings.
Since this restaurant is popular among tourists and locals alike, it is recommended to make a reservation before going to the restaurant. This is especially true if you’re visiting during the holiday season or on the weekends.
5. Ocho
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, then you need to visit Ocho. Here, the restaurant is situated in a glass conservatory overlooking the Riverwalk waters.
Their menu itself is a fusion of all things delicious, including Cuban, Mexican, and Texan culture.
On the menu, you’ll find famous dishes including the Crispy Snapper in coconut sauce, Cubana torta, and Arroz Con Pollo.
In addition to this, you can’t forget to stop at the bar underneath the restaurant where you’ll find some of the best margaritas in the whole city.
6. Ostra
Romantic and timeless, this is a go-to seafood restaurant for locals looking for delicious meals with charming views all in the same place.
Ostra does breakfast like no other restaurant. While they serve lunch and dinner, too, if you’re an early bird, you’ll want to catch one of their breakfast meals.
Whether you go for the classic American breakfast or try something containing a bit of Spanish flair, such as the roasted poblano migos – you’re in for a treat.
Are you more of a night person? Well, don’t fear, you can still eat all their delicious lunch and dinner options, too.
Some of which include the grilled ahi tuna, roasted gulf redfish, and seafood gumbo which have all gained glowing reviews.
Plus, you can sample something from their award-winning Oyster Bar, too. Here, you’ll find everything from the freshest crab, ceviche, clams, and more!
Make sure you’re going to Ostra thirsty since they offer more than 70 labels to choose from. They offer some of the largest selections of Mezcals and tequilas in the whole of downtown San Antonio.
7. Iron Cactus Mexican Grill & Margarita Bar
For over 20 years, Iron Cactus has been providing its guests with delicious contemporary Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant’s amazing food, tequila bar, and ambiance have made it the top destination for a relaxed dinner or a romantic date.
You can’t leave the restaurant without trying one of their incredible margaritas. Here, all beverages are made with the freshest possible ingredients – including fresh herbs, syrups, herbs, etc. – and all within the bar.
Test out their iconic Sunday brunches by relishing in the choice of waffles, pancakes, or omelet dishes.
On top of this, their vast menu includes sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, tequila grills, and some mouth-watering desserts.
8. Saltgrass Steakhouse
While you can find this chain restaurant all throughout Texas, their location in San Antonio Riverwalk is undoubtedly the most picturesque place to spend your money.
As expected with all the Saltgrass Steakhouses, upon arrival you’ll be provided with the utmost best service, incredible Southern decors, hearty, family-style meals, and, of course, tons of meat.
You’ll find Southern treats all throughout their menu, including fried pickles, giant surf and turf platters, and BBQ pork ribs.
For the perfect complimentary beverage, you need to order one of their in-hour drinks, such as the frozen margarita, Tito’s Texas Tea, or tropical sangria.
9. Bella On The River
If you’re looking for a diverse selection of Mediterranean dishes then you need to stop at Bella on the River. With a subtle romantic atmosphere, it is the perfect place to take your lover.
The interior of the restaurant is well-lit with aesthetically pleasing decor that is the ideal place for the perfect date.
It is a locally operated and owned restaurant which is home to various incredible dishes that can be paired with various champagnes and wines straight from the bar.
Among the highlights of the menu include the grilled lamp, seafood paella, and Virginia Pistachio cake.
10. Dorrego’s
Have you had enough of the TexMex cuisine and are looking to switch things up a bit? Then you need to stop at Dorrego’s – the only Argentinian restaurant in the neighborhood – bringing something different to the vast line of restaurants.
As you step foot into the restaurant, your senses will be flooded with bold flavors, intimate and cozy interiors, and a wide variety of delectable Argentine wines – all make the perfect accompaniment when paired with your dishes.
Once you have finished your meal, head over to Naranja Tequila and Mezcal Bar for some craft cocktails and tapas. Between Thursday and Saturday (7:30-10:30 pm) you’ll even witness a live Latin jazz band.
11. The Esquire Tavern
The oldest bar on the Riverwalk is the Esquire Tavern. Founded in 1933, the same year prohibition ended, the restaurant boasts the longest wooden bar in Texas.
With tons of fine dining and pub food options, you can receive both great food and comfort while overlooking the stunning Riverwalk.
When it comes to the bar, you’ll find some of the best cocktails and beer which pair perfectly with its hand-selected pub meals, including chili salt fried, burgers, chips, and grilled cheese sandwiches.
12. Pinkerton’s Barbecue
It would be rude to visit Texas without stopping at one of its most iconic barbecue destinations, the Pinkertons. In San Antonio, it just happens to be serving the best around.
With trays overflowing with perfectly-cooked meat, a picnic table seating arrangement, and Alamo-inspired signs dotted around every corner that read “Come and eat it”, this charming restaurant is quintessentially Southern – it is everything you would expect of a Texan meal.
That said, you can still rely on the quality. Here, everything is made from scratch with the freshest ingredients.
Some of the hottest dishes include the duck & sausage jambalaya, rosemary bacon mac & cheese, bread pudding, and prime brisket.
13. Schilo’s Delicatessen
Another old restaurant on the San Antonio Riverwalk is Schilo’s Delicatessen. Located directly from the street, this is one of the most popular among locals. Plus, it is one of the most reasonably-priced ones, too.
The menu offers a diverse selection of food including homemade root beer, delicious soups, and sandwiches.
You can also find some other dishes served with a smile including rye bread, split pea soup, and cinnamon rolls.
To enjoy these delicious German meals, keep in mind that you have to walk a few minutes away from the Riverwalk.
14. Casa Rio Mexican Restaurant
Here, all the foods are served with a San Antonio twist. In the whole city, it was the first business to open its door towards the Riverwalk – taking full advantage of the natural beauty.
Throughout history, Casa Rio has witnessed the evolution of the Riverwalk into what it is today. From gondolas, canoes, tour boats, and even dinner boats.
Besides being the starting point of the Riverwalk, the restaurant itself is known to serve up some deliciously authentic Mexican foods. For instance, burritos, enchiladas, tacos, and much more.
15. Yard House
Sit back and relax in one of the most laid-back restaurants on the Riverwalk, Yard House.
Home to an impressive array of New American foods, this elevated sports bar offers a wide selection of draft beers that one would hope to sample all in a night.
A must-try here is their vampire tacos. These are packed with bacon chorizo, carnitas, and cumin crema – it is a combination to die for.
16. Paesanos
The Riverwalk is the best place to experience some deliciously authentic Italian food. For instance, stuffed shells, crab stuffed salmon, and lobster bisque, among others.
With beautiful outdoor seating, it can make for a romantic dinner destination.
Final Thoughts
Heading to San Antonio, Texas? Then you can’t forget to stop at the Riverwalk. Here, you’ll find an array of cultures all in one place.
From Italian, Mexican, and, of course, Texan dishes, there is sure to be something for everyone. Hopefully, this guide has informed you about the best restaurants on San Antonio’s Riverwalk.
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