Plan a romantic weekend getaway to San Antonio, TX and explore the city's vibrant culinary scene at restaurants that serve delicious flavors from around the world, including American, Mediterranean, Southern, Italian, Mexican, French, Greek and Brazilian dishes. Whether you love amazing steaks, seafood, barbecue or vegetarian dining, here are the best romantic restaurants in San Antonio, Texas.
1. Bella on Houston
Enjoy the charming atmosphere of an intimate European café when you dine at San Antonio’s Bella on Houston, which serves Southern European-Mediterranean cuisine right on the famous San Antonio River Walk. Dive into delicious, flavorful dishes such as their signature Carpaccio, Chicken-Fried Texas Quail (with butternut squash puree and pumpkin seed pesto), or their Pasta Alla Norma.
The restaurant also offers pizzas and a gluten-free menu. Don’t miss the housemade sangria! Owner David Snyder combined his passion with his experience abroad when he opened the restaurant in 2011. Enjoy a romantic, candle-lit dinner at Bella on the River, located on the western edge of San Antonio’s renowned River Walk.
106 River Walk, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-404-2355
2. Bliss
San Antonio’s award-winning Bliss restaurant serves delicious, upscale contemporary American food made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Treat yourself to incredible dishes such as the Oyster Sliders (with crispy fried Gulf oysters), Brown Sugar-Cured Soy-Glazed Kurobuta Pork Belly, or the Roasted, Stuffed Quail.
An eclectic selection of beer and a lovely wine list with many appealing options are also available. Renowned Chef Mark Bliss (former partner at San Antonio’s Silo restaurant) owns Bliss, which he opened in 2012 with the help of his wife Lisa. This charming eatery is located in the south end of San Antonio’s Southtown (Lavaca) neighborhood.
926 South Presa Street, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-248-9926
3. Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Tavern is the oldest San Antonio bar on the Riverwalk. It is famous for having the longest wooden bar top in Texas featuring 100 feet of elbow-rubbed, beer-soaked old wood. The Esquire Tavern is a real, old-world bar, cool and dark, with lovely old wood paneling, a favorite watering hole for downtown patrons looking for cold beer, hot food and interesting conversation. The bar opened in 1933, just after Prohibition ended.
The food is mostly Texan, a bit Mexican and fairly spicy. Draft beers are mostly from Texas microbreweries, but they have everything else too, including a nice wine selection and original cocktails that will put you in the right mood for food. For a snack to go with your beer, try their chalupitas, pork belly rillettes or shrimp campechana. They have great burgers and sandwiches and their plates are Texan, big and awesome.
155 E Commerce St, San Antonio, Texas 78205, Phone: 210-222-2521
4. The Guenther House
San Antonio’s iconic Guenther House restaurant serves delicious Southern comfort foods and Tex-Mex fare. Dive into tasty treats like Chicken Pot Pie, Pioneer Meatloaf, Buttermilk Biscuits & Country Sausage Gravy, or Champagne Chicken Enchiladas. Or stop in for brunch and try the Southern Sweet Cream Waffle.
The restaurant, owned by C.H. Guenther & Son, Inc., resides in the lower level of the historic home of Pioneer Flour Mill’s founding family and encompasses the Art Nouveau style of the 1920s. You will find this charming, treasured eatery downtown nestled between the historic King William and Arsenal districts.
205 East Guenther Street, 800-235-8186
5. 18 Oaks
The upscale 18 Oaks restaurant serves up some of the best steak and seafood in the area – all made from sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy breath-taking views of TPC, San Antonio’s famous PGA Tour golf courses, while dining on exquisitely prepared dishes such as the 18 Oaks Benedict (with short rib), Spicy Garlic Tuna Sandwich, or the Béarnaise Stuffed Maine Lobster.
18 Oaks also boasts a full bar. Executive Chef Alex Glass is the mastermind behind these culinary creations, which never fail to impress. 18 Oaks is located at the Golf Clubhouse at the The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country.
23808 Resort Parkway, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-491-5825
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6.Whiskey Tree Bar and Grill
Whiskey Tree Bar and Grill is a delightful sports bar in San Antonio, opened in 2017 within a newly-renovated space. The bar is named for its unique sprawling live oak tree, which grows through the center of the bar's outdoor patio space and provides a canopy for al fresco dining experiences. Excellent bar fare is served up throughout the week, including dirty BLT sandwiches with fried eggs, King Ranch chicken casserole, homestyle meatloaf, and fish tacos with lime and cabbage. Shareables like beef quesadillas, fried pickles, and teriyaki chicken wings are also served up, along with a selection of salads and homestyle side dishes. More than 20 regional brews are served up on tap, along with whiskey-focused classic cocktails. High-definition televisions broadcast sporting games throughout the week, while a stage and dance floor offer entertainment on the weekends.
7905 Bandera Rd #3, San Antonio, TX 78250, Phone: 210-758-5376
, From LA7.Acenar
Acenar is a wonderfully innovative and contemporary Mexican restaurant located on the Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio. The large multi-level space has seating in the main dining room, outside, and on the wonderful balcony overlooking the river. The design is a beautifully executed contemporary take on Mexican esthetics, in color and form, with a touch of Asia. Acenar’s menu continues with the original and innovative, with such items as the young Texas goat with ancho salsa ranchera, duck crepes, and buttermilk-fried oysters. There are also plenty of everyone’s favorites cooked to perfection, such as San Antonio-style enchiladas, sizzling parrilladas, savory chiles rellenos, asadas, and cabrito. On the Houston Street level, Átomar Bar offers Latino-style cocktails, margaritas, and premium tequilas as well as a chef-selected small plates menu.
146 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, Phone: 210-222-2362
8. Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar
Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar is a laid-back, relaxed country-style kitchen with a menu of delicious farm-to-kitchen dishes and handcrafted cocktails made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Using slow-cooking methods such as wood-fired, smokers, spits, and grills, the menu features a host of hearty all-American fare such as grilled meats, chicken and fish, homemade burgers, sandwiches, stacks and melts, crispy salads, and a range of snacks and sides. Start with Fire-Roasted Shishito Peppers in grilled lemon and chili butter sauce followed by Grilled Texas Striped Bass served with carrot and Tuscan kale slaw and roasted gold pepper romesco.
End your dining experience on a sweet note with a Toffee Torte Whiskey Cake. Whiskey cocktails and specialty drinks such as a Guava Gimlet Mighty Agamemnon can be enjoyed with your meal, and you have the option of dining alfresco-style on the outdoor patio. Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar is open seven days a week for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
15900 La Cantera Pkwy Suite 21200, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-236-8095
9.Saveurs 209
Inspired by their rich French heritage, Parisian natives Sylvain and Sylvie Nykiel established Saveurs 209 in San Antonio to share their passion for French cuisine with everyone and bring a little slice of France to Texas. Saveurs 209 boasts a menu of contemporary French cuisine with dishes such as starters of fig and mushrooms carpaccio with bucheron goat cheese and hazelnuts and warm toasted foie gras set in a black and red berries coulis with dry meringue with juniper.
Entrées (mains) range from roasted monkfish, clams, and shellfish served with fingerling potatoes and leeks in a kaffir lime emulsion, roasted Maine lobster served with sautéed fennel and anise star, and Angus beef tenderloin with butternut squash pureé, shaved mushrooms, and pumpkin seed jus.
Indulge in a dessert of Bischoff cookie pannacotta with orange tuile and drizzled in Grand Marnier granite, and order a refreshing beverage from a selection of fine wines and spirits. Saveurs 209 serves brunch, lunch, and dinner, Tuesday through Sunday.
209 Broadway St, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-223-0209
10. Biga on the Banks
The popular Biga on the Banks sets the standard for San Antonio fine dining, specializing in innovative, contemporary-regional New American cuisine – all made from local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Savor exquisitely prepared dishes such as the Chicken-Fried Oysters, Mustard-Crusted Texas Lamb Rack, or Eleven-Spiced Hill Country Venison & Grilled Quail.
Owner Chef Bruce Auden (a native North Londoner) opened Biga on the Banks in 2000, creating a spin-off of his smaller Restaurant Biga. He and his wife Debra also own San Antonio’s LocuStreet Bakery. Dine in relaxed elegance and enjoy a culinary celebration at Biga on the Banks, located at the world-renowned San Antonio Riverwalk.
203 South St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-225-0722
11.La Panaderia
San Antonio’s La Panaderia is a specialty bakery that offers exotic, quality Latin American breads, coffee, and light fare. Stop in and treat yourself to an explosion of flavor with dishes like the Hawaiana Torta (with pulled pork and grilled pineapple), Chicken Milanesa Salad Bowl, or “Our Famous Pan Frances” Breakfast. Delicious coffees and espressos are also available.
Brothers and owners Jose and David Caceras learned to make scrumptious breads from their mother and today, their breads are sold at Starbucks. They opened La Panaderia in 2013. Follow your nose to their bakery, which is located on Broadway just inside the Connally Loop.
8305 Broadway Street, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-375-6746
12.Wildfish Seafood Grille
Wildfish Seafood Grille serves incredible steaks and seafood in a posh, urban setting. Treat yourself to tasty dishes such as the Maine Lobster Tacos, Prime NY Strip, or the Filet Medallions (Oscar-style with fresh crab, asparagus, and hollandaise). World-class wines and creative, handcrafted cocktails are also available.
Larry Foles and Guy Villavaso originally founded Wildfish in Newport Beach, California ten years ago. It has since expanded to three locations nationally. This chic, contemporary steak and seafood house is located in between north San Antonio’s The Vineyard and The Waters at Deerfield neighborhoods.
1834 North Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-493-1600
13.Chama Gaucha
Chama Gaucha Steakhouse is an authentic Brazilian steakhouse where the meat is savory and the atmosphere is both exotic and welcoming. Your taste buds will appreciate their exquisitely prepared meats, such as the house specialty Picanha (a prime cut of sirloin), the Costela (beef rib), or the Porco (succulent rack of pork ribs or loins dusted in parmesan).
Chama Gaucha is a blossoming chain that originally started in Houston and now has four locations nationally. Chama Gaucha is located near the The Seventh at Sonterra, just north of the Charles William Anderson Loop.
18318 Sonterra Place, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-564-9400
14.Bohanan's
Bohanan's is an upscale restaurant known for its legendary steaks and celebrated seafoods. Dive into delicious, passionately prepared dishes like the fourteen-ounce Akaushi Ribeye steak, Mesquite-Grilled Red Snapper Royale, French-Grilled Oysters, or Chef Mark’s Frito Pie. Wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails are available, as is a lovely cigar list.
Owner Chef Mark Bohanan first opened the restaurant in 2002 and modeled it to embody a Texas spirit with Old World Charm. It’s the perfect place for a romantic night or a business dinner. Bohanan’s is nestled in the heart of downtown San Antonio near Riverwalk and Peacock Alley.
219 East Houston Street, 2nd Floor, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-472-2600
15.Las Canarias Restaurant
Las Canarias Restaurant serves innovative New American cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Treat yourself to incredible dishes like the Third Coast Redfish Ceviche, Bacon-Wrapped Tenderloin, or Traditional Canary Island Seafood Paella. Alternatively, you can stop in for breakfast or Sunday brunch and try the Chilaquiles a la Mexicana.
Their fantastic handmade margaritas are not to be missed. Executive Chef Scott Knack (of Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen reality TV show) is the mastermind behind the culinary creations here. Enjoy the scenic views at Las Canarias located at the Omni La Mansion del Rio Hotel & Resort right off San Antonio’s Riverwalk.
P112 College Street, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-518-1063
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16.Feast
Feast serves creative New American cuisine with Mediterranean flair where all the dishes are made from fresh, local, sustainable ingredients. You can’t go wrong with incredible plates such as the Ground Lamb Kebabs, Pernod Quick-Cured Salmon, or the Duck Breast Tostadas. Stop in for Sunday brunch and try the S.A. Breakfast (a house specialty).
They also offer a fantastic beer selection, a wonderful wine list, and innovative, handcrafted cocktails. Chef Stefan Bowers and entrepreneur Andrew Goodman combined their innovation and passion to open their brainchild Feast in 2011. You will find this sophisticated eatery in the King William historic district.
1024 South Alamo Street, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-354-1024
17.Silo
Silo is an elevated bistro and bar that serves upscale, innovative New American cuisine. Treat yourself to exquisitely prepared dishes such as the Signature Chicken-Fried Oysters, Honey Soy-Glazed Atlantic Salmon, or the Cider-Braised Kurobuta Pork Shank. They also offer an impressive selection of beer and wine as well as delicious, handcrafted cocktails.
Restaurateur power couple Patrick and Cari Breakie Richardson opened Silo in 2010. It now has three locations across San Antonio – one on the 1604 Loop (northeast of Canyon Creek Estates) and another in Alamo Heights, while Silo Terrace Oyster Bar is situated near The Dominion.
434 TX-1604 Loop, 210-483-8989; 1133 Austin Highway, 210-824-8686, 22211 Suite 1210, IH 10 W, 210-698-2002
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18.Zocca Cuisine D'Italia
Zocca is one of San Antonio’s premiere contemporary-yet-rustic Italian restaurants. Enjoy the warm, casual atmosphere as you dine on incredible dishes like Porcini-Crusted Pork Chop, Striped Bass, or a Muffaletta. You can also stop in for breakfast and try the Crab Cake Eggs Benedict. Zocca even serves pizzas, and a gluten-free menu is also available. Eat inside or enjoy the riverside patio under the shade of towering cypress trees. Executive Chef Jeff Foresman is at the helm of this ship. Named for the rustic village in northern Italy, Zocca is situated inside the Westin Riverwalk Hotel in downtown San Antonio.
420 West Market Street, San Antonio, Texas, Phone: 210-444-6070
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19.Green Vegetarian Cuisine
Green Vegetarian Cuisine is San Antonio’s first vegetarian restaurant, specializing in Southern comfort foods (sans meat). Your taste buds will go wild for expertly prepared dishes such as the Cauliflower Hot Wings, Spinach & Mushroom Enchiladas, or the Jalapeno Cheese Burger. Stop in for breakfast and try the Huevos a la Mexicana.
Vegan options are also available, and Green is deeply committed to sustainability. Paul Evans, Mike Behrend, and Luann Singleton (Behrend’s mother) founded Green in 2006 and were later joined by Mike’s brother, Chris. You will find their original location at San Antonio’s Pearl Brewery and their second location in Alon.
200 East Grayson Street, Suite 120, 210-320-5865; 10003 Northwest Military, Suite 2115, 210-233-1249
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20.Mina & Dimi's Greek House
Mina & Dimi's Greek House serves some of San Antonio’s best Greek tavern fare in a festive setting replete with beautiful murals. Treat yourself to delicious Mediterranean dishes such as the moussaka (with meat or vegetarian style), fried okra (Greek style), spanakopita, or a souvlaki pita. Save room for the Baklava Cheesecake!
An eclectic wine list is also available. Occasionally, the restaurant features belly dancing and fun wine tastings to make your night even more fun. You will find this charming, family-run restaurant downtown in San Antonio’s Westside close to Lackland Air Force Base.
7159 Highway 90, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-674-3464
21. Magnolia Pancake Haus
As featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Magnolia Pancake Haus claims to have the best breakfast in San Antonio, and all their dishes are made from scratch daily. Dive into tasty American breakfast treats such as the Shrimp & Avocado Omelet, Calico Hash, Bacon Pancakes, or the Cubano a la Magnolia. Gluten-free options are also available.
Robert & Sheila Fleming opened the eatery in 2000, bringing a life-long dream into fruition. Visit their original location in north San Antonio (near the San Antonio International Airport) or at their second location located on the northwest side of the Vance Jackson neighborhood.
606 Embassy Oaks; 10333 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-496-0828
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22.Boudro's Texas Bistro
San Antonio’s iconic Boudro's Texas Bistro serves New American cuisine with a heavy emphasis on steaks and seafood. Eat inside, outside on the riverside patio, or on the barge that actually floats on the river. Savor incredible dishes like the Blue Crab Tostada, Wood-Grilled Fish Filet, or the Mesquite Grilled Texas Quail.
You can also try one of their many juicy cuts of steak. An extensive wine list is available, as are tasty, handcrafted cocktails (like the Prickly Pear Margarita). Restaurateur friends Randy Mathews and Richard Higbie founded Boudro’s in 1986. It is located on San Antonio’s world-renowned Riverwalk.
421 East Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-224-8484
23.L Taco
San Antonio’s hip, new L Taco serves authentic Mexican food made from generations-old recipes and techniques and bold Mexican flavors. Savor tasty, passionately prepared dishes such as the Carne Guisada (breakfast taco), Costra Taco (cheese crusted with steak), Barbacoa Tostada, or the Beef Lover Enchilada.
Two friends from Mexico who sought to carry on the culinary and cultural traditions of their homeland founded L Taco in 2015. Rev up your taste buds and head their way today! You will find this charming little taqueria nestled between north San Antonio’s Stone Oak neighborhood and The Seventh at Sonterra.
19202 Stone Oak Parkway #103, San Antonio, TX, Phone: 210-495-8226
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24.Rosario's
Rosario’s is a modern, upbeat eatery and bar that serves authentic Mexican food and “South of the border specialties” in two locations in town.
Located on Alamo Street in Southtown and San Pedro Avenue in the north, Rosario’s draws a vibrant, fun-loving crowd who come to enjoy excellent Mexican food, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beers in a relaxed environment.
Traditional Mexican dishes feature on the menu, including ceviche, nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and tostadas, as well as parillas, tacos, and fajitas, all filled with a choice of grilled meat, chicken, or fish or vegetarian options. The bar menu boasts inventive cocktails, selective spirits, and a range of craft and draft beers.
Southtown: 910 S Alamo St, 210-223-1806; Rosario's North: 9715 San Pedro Ave, 210-481-4100
25 Best Restaurants in San Antonio, Texas
- Bella on Houston, Photo: Bella on Houston
- Bliss, Photo: Bliss
- Esquire Tavern, Photo: Esquire Tavern
- The Guenther House, Photo: The Guenther House
- 18 Oaks, Photo: 18 Oaks
- Whiskey Tree Bar and Grill, Photo: Whiskey Tree Bar and Grill
- Acenar, Photo: Acenar
- Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar, Photo: Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar
- Saveurs 209, Photo: Saveurs 209
- Biga on the Banks, Photo: Biga on the Banks
- La Panaderia, Photo: La Panaderia
- Wildfish Seafood Grille, Photo: Wildfish Seafood Grille
- Chama Gaucha, Photo: Chama Gaucha
- Bohanan's, Photo: Bohanan's
- Las Canarias Restaurant, Photo: Las Canarias Restaurant
- Feast, Photo: Feast
- Silo, Photo: Silo
- Zocca Cuisine D'Italia, Photo: Zocca Cuisine D'Italia
- Green Vegetarian Cuisine, Photo: Green Vegetarian Cuisine
- Mina & Dimi's Greek House, Photo: Mina & Dimi's Greek House
- Magnolia Pancake Haus, Photo: Magnolia Pancake Haus
- Boudro's Texas Bistro, Photo: Boudro's Texas Bistro
- L Taco, Photo: Courtesy of jc_studio - Fotolia.com
- Rosario's, Photo: Rosario's
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of f11photo - Fotolia.com
