San Antonio boasts a rich culinary scene blending tradition with innovation. From beloved local joints to emerging fine dining spots, the city offers something for everyone. While new establishments pop up, the timeless classics hold their ground, creating a unique gastronomic landscape. Here are the must-visit restaurants in San Antonio.
1. Clementine
Located in Castle Hills just outside Northwest Loop 410, Clementine offers a refined dining experience with a Texan-Southern twist. Owned by John and Elise Russ, this hidden gem serves up dishes like hush puppies with herby labneh and chamomile-brined spatchcock chicken. The menu changes frequently, keeping things fresh. Reservations are recommended for indoor dining.
2. Demo’s Greek Food
With locations in Castle Hills, the Strip, and Stone Oak, Demo’s delights diners with Mediterranean cuisine in a charming setting adorned with hand-painted murals. Traditional Greek appetizers and steaming pita wraps draw crowds for lunch and dinner. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available, along with online ordering for takeout.
3. Taquitos West Avenue
This Dellview eatery offers quick service and authentic Jalisco-style street tacos, including al pastor and brisket varieties. Open until midnight daily (even later on weekends), it’s a favorite spot for late-night taco cravings.
4. Original Donut Shop
Known for its toasted bean and cheese tacos, this Maverick neighborhood spot also offers a wide array of specialty doughnuts. Whether dining in or taking out, it’s a Fredericksburg Road favorite.
5. Niki’s Tokyo Inn
A longtime fixture in the Edison neighborhood, Niki’s serves up Japanese classics like sushi and yakisoba noodles. Indoor dining features standard and sushi bar seating, along with tatami-style floor options.
6. Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More
Beat the heat with frozen treats like mangonadas at this Beacon Hill snack stand. Fresh fruit cups and savory snacks are also on the menu, perfect for outdoor dining.
7. Curry Boys BBQ
Blending Texas barbecue with Southeast Asian flavors, Curry Boys offers unique dishes like the Brisket Smoke Show. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available, along with online ordering for takeout.
8. Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery
Located at the Pearl, Southerleigh serves up Southern comfort food with a coastal twist. From marinated fried chicken to fried snapper throats, there’s something for everyone. Online ordering is available for takeout.
9. Best Quality Daughter
Started as a series of pop-ups, this Asian fusion spot at the Pearl showcases creative dishes like curry shrimp fried rice and mochi cheddar hush puppies. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available, along with online ordering for takeout.
10. Tank’s Pizza
Satisfy your pizza cravings at Tank’s, where high-quality pies and crispy calzones keep locals coming back. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available, along with online ordering for takeout.
11. Ray’s Drive Inn
A Westside favorite since the 1950s, Ray’s Drive Inn is famous for its puffy tacos. Preorder online for indoor or outdoor dining.
12. Rosario’s
This Southtown Mexican restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and delicious dishes like fish tacos and enchiladas Mexicanas. Order online for takeout or dine indoors or outdoors.
13. Carnitas Lonja
Known for its tender pork carnitas, Carnitas Lonja serves up traditional Michoacán fare at its new location. Dine outdoors and order in person or online.
14. Rudy’s Seafood
A Southside staple since the 1960s, Rudy’s serves up generous portions of fried fish, shrimp, and oysters. Call ahead for pickup or dine indoors.
15. 2M Smokehouse
For the best barbecue in town, head to 2M Smokehouse in the Lower Southeast Side neighborhood. Enjoy brisket, turkey breast, and pulled pork indoors or outdoors.
These essential San Antonio restaurants offer a taste of the city’s diverse culinary landscape, blending tradition with innovation to satisfy every palate.
