Millions of tourists and locals alike visit the River Walk in San Antonio. Not only is it beautiful, but there’s lots to do, such as learning about the history of the place, taking a river cruise, and more.
But the best part of your visit will be exploring the famed eateries along the water. It is a haven for hardcore foodies wanting to check out the culinary scene that South Texas has to offer. And if you happen to be visiting this lively area, you might want to check out our list of the 20 best riverwalk restaurants.
A restaurant branch of a sports bar chain, Yard House, should be an easy pick for beer aficionados looking to sip on Texas’ finest quality craft beers. The sports bar had proudly claimed it has the largest selection of craft beers in the world on its website.
They focus on local brews like the famous Dogfish Head and Lagunitas, but they also have some that they only serve at this place.
Location: 849 E Commerce St #409
Situated in the Pearl Brewery complex, Boiler House offers a glimpse of San Antonio's history. They have not changed the architecture of the industrial space, which is over 100 years old.
The menu focuses on South Texas cuisine with a slight twist, like the Moscato-braised pork shank with jalapeño grits. Pair it with any of the wines from around the world and craft cocktails.
Location: next to Hotel Emma, 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 3
When you combine tequilas with Mexican-South Texas cuisine, you get Iron Cactus. They offer over 100 premium tequilas and mouth-watering Mexican dishes with a Southern twist.
So sip on a perfectly balanced margarita and savor the pork tamale pops and crowd-favorite fajitas as you people-watch on the outdoor dining patio that has a view of the River Walk and the famous Aztec Theater.
Location: 200 River Walk Suite 100
Loosely translated to “cheers in the house,” Little Rhein Prost Haus offers a glimpse of the German culture that the German settlers brought to San Antonio in the 1800s.
It is in the two-story stone building in Bexar County, built by German immigrant Otto Bombach. The menu, however, captures the essence of Texas’ culinary scene with mouthwatering USDA steaks.
Location: 231 S Alamo St
If you are looking for a place to take your date that serves Mediterranean cuisine in a romantic setting, look no further than Bella on the River. The restaurant has an intimate, well-lit interior with dining and patio seating.
Some of the dishes from the diverse Mediterranean menu include seafood paella, grilled lamb, and Virginia’s pistachio cake. The vino list is long, but the knowledgeable wait staff will guide you.
Location: 289 Alamo Plz
A fine-dining gem in River Walk, Biga on the Banks is showing everyone how it should be done. They whip up New American fares with so much care and love that they have elevated San Antonio's dining scene.
The menu is packed with enticing selections like salmon nachos and seared Hudson Valley foie gras. But it would be a wast if you left without trying their signature sticky toffee pudding.
Location: 203 S St Mary's St
Among the many innovative and contemporary Tex-Mex restaurants in San Antonio, Acenar is one of them. But despite intense competition, it is a cut above the rest and constantly lauded by critics and diners alike.
Enjoy the bold flavors of classics such as the chile rellenos and fish tacos, or if you are looking to experiment, try unique dishes like the buttermilk fried oysters.
Location: 146 E Houston St
If San Antonio’s most celebrated chef runs a restaurant, you best bet it would be nothing short of spectacular. Helmed by chef Steve McHugh, Landrace is a trendy spot with a terrace and a dining room with a view of Museum Reach.
The chef opened this restaurant to feature seasonal dishes made with high-quality, local ingredients. One of the must-order is the fire-roasted chicken with blue corn tortillas.
Location: 11 Lexington Ave
Established in the early 1900s, Schilo's is a San Antonio institution that delivers old-world flavors. It is still standing strong after a century, not just in terms of surviving the various crises but in its ability to serve outstanding food.
The split pea soup might sound unappetizing to some, but it is their most popular dish and will likely change your view on soup dishes. However, if you are still not convinced, their meatloaf is another best-selling dish.
Location: 424 E Commerce St
After exploring the galleries at the San Antonio Museum of Art, make your way to Tre Trattoria to relax and enjoy delicious food.
The family-style dining space features breathtaking views of the San Antonio River, which you can soak in with Italian classics like hand-made pasta and cast iron pizza. But if you are in the mood for a bit of South Texas flair, order their signature deviled eggs.
Location: 200 W Jones Ave #501
Located inside the Emma Hotel, Supper is the ideal place to experience Southern hospitality. The warm, homey decor shows the level of attention paid to create the vibe and atmosphere.
The restaurant has a farm-to-table concept. Dishes are creatively concocted with high-quality seasonal ingredients. Their menu is largely vegetarian. But that’s not to say that they do not have amazing options for the carnivores.
Location: 136 E Grayson St
There is nothing quite as exquisite as Ocho along San Antonio’s lush River Walk.
When you step inside this glass conservatory, you will be entranced by the restaurant’s beautiful interior that pops with turquoise steel beams and chic chandeliers.
The menu draws inspiration from Cuba, Mexico, and Texas and has a bevy of enticing options, like the crispy snapper in coconut sauce and arroz con pollo.
Location: 1015 Navarro St
Forget all the pretentious fluff. Esquire Tavern's the place to be on the for a little bit of the River Walk magic. This dim, rustic hideaway whispers secrets of the city, like a Texas speakeasy reborn.
Skip the touristy crowds. Grab a seat in the longest wooden bar top beside locals and share laughs over killer drinks with funky tunes playing softly in the background.
Location: 155 E Commerce St
Tex-Mex and overpriced margaritas are plenty at River Walk. Naturally, you will have a hankering for something different, especially if it's your fifth time visiting.
Bonahan's is the River Walk's secret weapon for seafood lovers. This ain't your average fish and chips joint.
Listen to the freshest catch sizzle on the grill. Everyone's tucking into the oysters and crab legs with delight.
Location: 219 E Houston St #275
A flavorful escape with a modern take on Southern and South Texas cuisine with a splash of Latin and French influence, Four Brothers offers a little bit of everything.
Expect unexpected twists like grilled steak with chimichurri or truffle oil-infused roasted vegetables.
But not all is unfamiliar like the Chilean sea bass and signature wagyu beef burger
Location: 112 College St
A San Antonio legend on the River Walk, Paesanos has been serving authentic Italian fare for three generations. The rustic charms of the terracotta flooring, exposed brick walls, and ambient lighting beckons diners to come in and have a taste.
The handmade pasta topped with sauces simmered for hours leave you wanting more and eager to return. Pair your meal with a bottle of Barolo or Chianti well-curated wine list.
Location: 111 W Crockett St #101
Imagine live piano or jazz music humming in the background as you indulge in classic steakhouse fares like pecan-grilled lamb chops or wild mushroom tacos with a wonderful wine pairing.
Sounds like a perfect night out? If so, make your way to Boudro’s on the Riverwalk for a refined dining experience with panoramic views of the bustling River Walk.
Location: On The Riverwalk Level, 421 E Commerce St
Your tastebuds will thank you after dining at Domingo, a delicious Mexican food inside the Canopy Hotel by Hilton. The riverfront terrace offers Mexican cuisine with a Texas flair.
After you are seated, start with their signature cocktails or a passion fruit margarita. For food options, you will be spoiled for choices. Some of these are the guacamole that has a nice kick from the charred serrano chili and baby spinach salad drizzled with jalapeño lime vinaigrette.
Location: 123 N St Mary's St
With so many restaurants on the RiverWalk, you can bet there is one for every mood. For days when you want something casual and budget-friendly, count on Rita's on the River. This festive, family-owned eatery serves a wide selection of Tex-Mex favorites.
Choose from handmade tortillas or zesty Mexican shrimp cocktails. They also have vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The food, coupled with the live mariachi music, makes you never want to leave.
Location: River Level, 245 E Commerce St
Rock on the hammocks or the swinging chairs and enjoy the water view at Elsewhere Garden. This funky bar has so much to offer, from live music, aerial acrobatics, fire dance performances, a 150-inch screen for sports viewing, and much more.
Guests can dine on creative comfort foods like crowd-pleasing burgers, gochujang cauliflower wings, and Baja shrimp tacos. Beverages include 24 Texas beers on tap, margaritas, wine, and more.
Location: 103 E Jones Ave
