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Local picks

Barbecue date spots in San Antonio

You want the relaxed, unpretentious nature of a barbecue joint for a date that feels authentic.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Smith's BBQ image 1
Smith's BBQ image 2
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Barbecue restaurant

Food truck on a dirt lot with outdoor seating and a casual, cookout vibe filled with the smell of mesquite wood smoke. Atmosphere feels like a family gathering with games and welcoming music. The place operates on a cash-only basis and offers some of the best barbecue with standout ribs and brisket.

Mesquite smoked BBQ beans stand out as a rare find here. Ribs and brisket deliver a solid, authentic Texas BBQ experience that sets a high standard.

Generous portions like the 4 Meat plate with 2 sides easily feed couples and even a small family. Barbecue dishes offer a variety of flavors that satisfy different tastes on a date.

People are saying

"I thought this was some of the best BBQ I've ever had."

"This barbecue is some of the best I've ever tasted."

"These Date Spots have the best barbecue ribs I've ever had."

Good to know

1

On Fridays and Saturdays, there's a snowcone truck and family-friendly events.

2

Smith's BBQ accepts only cash payments.

3

The prices at Smith's BBQ are very reasonable.

02
Tenfold Rooftop image 1

Open-air rooftop bar offers stunning city views and an upscale atmosphere with lively, well-curated music. Guests enjoy creative cocktails and fabulous tapas while relaxing under the stars or watching sunsets. The space features no indoor seating and often requires reservations on busy nights.

Korean BBQ skewers stand out as a key dish, offering a flavorful and satisfying option. They cost about $20 and serve well for sharing.

A rooftop setting creates a relaxed vibe ideal for couples. Bartenders craft personalized drinks that add a special touch to date nights. The spot suits both intimate evenings and casual celebrations.

People are saying

"The view from the rooftop is amazing."

"Our server was truly wonderful and made us feel comfortable."

"The Korean Barbecue skewers were my favorite meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait if you don't have a reservation.

3

Children under 21 are not allowed due to bar regulations.

03
King Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Large, spacious buffet with modern lighting and stylish decor creates a clean, peaceful atmosphere. Mongolian grill station offers custom stir-fries made to order, adding interactive dining. Environment feels upscale and well maintained, blending comfort with a touch of elegance.

Mongolian barbecue offers a varied selection with fresh ingredients and a station that stands out. Salmon gets a unique BBQ twist that adds to the overall appeal.

Good service and good food create a reliable dining experience. The beautiful aesthetic offers a nice setting for a date, making it comfortable for couples to enjoy meals together.

People are saying

"The buffet has an amazing variety of food options."

"The food variety here is superb for date spots."

"I loved the Mongolian Barbecue because I could choose my own fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Crab legs are available on weekends at the buffet.

2

King Buffet offers lunch specials during the week.

3

They provide a free buffet for birthdays.

04
Reese Bros Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor barbecue spot offers covered seating with a backyard patio vibe and friendly service. The atmosphere is clean and inviting, featuring TVs and a small bar with affordable Lone Star beers and flavorful margaritas. Conversations and music create a relaxed, social energy throughout the space.

Texas-style barbecue stands out with rich, smoky flavors and tender meats. Sides complement the authentic American barbecue experience, making it a solid choice for barbecue lovers.

People are saying

"This American food is some of the best barbecue I've ever had."

"I thought the Barbecue here was some of the best I've ever had."

"The brisket here is so flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines; they often sell out by early afternoon.

2

Parking is available in a large dirt lot behind the restaurant.

3

All drinks are ordered at the bar, which can lead to long wait times.

05
Go Vegan San Antonio image 1

Food truck with outdoor seating under heritage oak trees creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Well-lit and clean grounds invite diners to enjoy affordable, diverse vegan dishes that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans.

Barbecue flavors come through strong in the BBQ Mac and barbecue-flavored bites made from scratch. The sampler offers four vegan "chicken" bites with two buffalo and two barbecue styles, plus a tasty bbq melt.

Loaded kimchi fries and chickโ€™n & waffles stand out as shared favorites. The patty melt with sweet potato fries offers a solid choice for couples looking to share and enjoy vegan options together.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is amazing and flavorful, even for non-vegans."

"The burgers and patty melts here are delicious for date spots."

"The barbecue mac and cheese here is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable compared to other places.

2

The place is pet friendly, allowing you to bring your dogs.

3

Expect small portion sizes for the meals.

06
Tx Front Yard BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue spot with limited outdoor seating and two tables with umbrellas creates a chill, friendly vibe where music blends with nearby sounds. Customers often eat in their cars due to dusty, hot conditions and scarce seating. Cool trucks parked upfront add to the casual, relaxed atmosphere.

Massive turkey legs with tender meat that falls off the bone stand out here. The barbecue includes flavorful options and tacos, making it a reliable spot for fall off the bone meat lovers.

Turkey legs stand out as a favorite dish. The menu includes a Mac Turkey and shrimp bowl that adds variety. Food quality encourages repeat visits to share with family.

People are saying

"The BBQ turkey legs here are fall off the bone and flavorful."

"The barbecue turkey legs are fall-off-the-bone delicious."

"You have to try the shrimp mac bowl; it's out of this world good."

Good to know

1

There is no outdoor seating available.

2

Limited parking is available.

3

Credit card payments incur a fee for any amount.

07
JPOT image 1
Asian restaurant

Open flame grill and spacious booths create a modern, comfortable setting with Japanese decor. Sauce bar and music curated by management add interactive and lively touches. Atmosphere feels fun and inviting, suitable for various occasions.

Offers a fantastic variety of options for both hot pot and Korean BBQ. Includes appetizers and desserts alongside the main dishes.

Special occasions and date nights feature personalized service like surprise dessert trays. The spot suits dietary restrictions and offers a comfortable setting for couples and small groups.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"The servers here give great recommendations for Date Spots."

"The barbecue grill was so cold, it took ages to cook anything."

Good to know

1

Kids under 7 eat for free during certain visits.

2

The restaurant offers a limited-time free kids' meal deal.

3

The 2 for 1 Happy Hour is available at JPOT.

08
YUMMY KITCHEN image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a cool, modernized atmosphere with elegant decor featuring slate walls and neon signs. The vibe stays calm yet energetic with a variety of music and self-service meat buffet that sets it apart from typical dining spots. Spacious seating includes big, comfortable seats enhancing the overall experience.

All-you-can-eat barbecue includes fresh meat served directly from the fridge, avoiding wait times. The Korean BBQ offers great portions with a nice variety of options alongside sushi.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very flavorful."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat barbecue with great portions."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

YUMMY KITCHEN runs a happy hour from 2-5 PM every day.

2

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30 per person during lunch.

3

You can pick your own meat and veggies from the self-service buffet.

09
Yippon Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers modern decor with warm colors and wood accents, creating a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes private spots, booths, and bar seating by a sushi station, accommodating groups and families. Music is smooth and chill, enhancing the clean and inviting environment.

BBQ pork buns stand out as a flavorful appetizer. Other notable items include BBQ little sandwich and shrimp roll, all served fresh and packed with flavor.

Dinner here suits anniversaries with delicious ramen and a sashimi cocktail that can serve as a light meal. The food impresses and sparks positive conversation throughout the evening.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, flavorful, and truly the soul of the dish."

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and full of flavor."

"You have to try the BBQ pork buns; they're a definite appetizer recommendation."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

2

Prices for ramen dishes are generally under $20 per person.

3

Takeout orders are available with neat packaging to keep food warm.

10
Kimโ€˜s Galbi image 1
Korean restaurant

Cozy Korean restaurant with authentic barbecue grills at each table creates an interactive dining experience. Low lighting and tasteful decor set a quiet, intimate atmosphere suitable for small groups or dates. Fresh, well-seasoned meats and in-house kimchi highlight the menu's genuine flavors.

All-you-can-eat Korean barbecue comes with six different sides like kimchi and Gochugaru cucumbers. Large two-portion grills serve enough for at least four people, paired with classic fixings such as romaine, garlic, and jalapeรฑos.

All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ offers a shared dining experience that suits couples well. The menu includes premium Galbi and Korean fried chicken, making it a solid choice for special occasions and dates.

People are saying

"The food here tastes authentic and reminds me of home."

"I thought the Korean BBQ here was exceptionally good."

"The all-you-can-eat Korean Barbecue here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Lunch menu offers a large selection for just $13 from Tuesday to Friday, 11 am to 2:30 pm.

2

Expect to pay around $65 for a meal for three, excluding drinks.

3

An 18% tip is automatically added for parties of more than five.

11
Llaneros Grill Restaurant image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Open flame grilling sets a rustic tone with decor reflecting Venezuelan plains landscapes. Warm, welcoming atmosphere fills the space with cheerful energy and a sense of being at home. Tables often host families and friends, creating a lively, communal vibe.

Carne en vara serves as the real BBQ here, offering tender BBQ meat with a fresh, delicious taste. Venezuelan style BBQ includes hand cheese and captures authentic flavors well.

Conversations about Venezuelan meat varieties and cooking styles create a unique dining experience. Staff engage openly to explain unfamiliar dishes, making it easy to explore new flavors together.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender BBQ meat."

"I tried the Venezuelan style Barbecue; it was the real deal."

Good to know

1

Expect a three-hour wait for the featured artist during busy events.

2

The restaurant hosts a Christmas Eve party in 2025.

3

Weekend evenings feature live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

12
Maui's on Main image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with island aesthetic and outdoor patio creates a welcoming, friendly atmosphere that feels like a Hawaiian vacation. Live Hawaiian music and good tunes add to the pleasant vibe. Seating includes indoor tables and picnic tables with fans and umbrellas for comfort.

Hawaiian BBQ features boneless chicken served in a rice bowl and on a Sunday BBQ plate. The barbecue lunch plate offers a satisfying meal with authentic flavors.

Hawaiian Fried Chicken and Garlic Shrimp come cooked just right with a nice taste. The food matches authentic Hawaiian flavors, and the Ube Milkshake offers a unique sweet treat.

People are saying

"These burgers are onolicious and broke my mouth with flavor."

"The food at these Date Spots is delicious, especially the garlic shrimp."

"I had the barbecue lunch plate and it exceeded my expectations."

Good to know

1

Poke is served only on Saturdays.

2

Parking is available in a small, cramped lot with poor paving.

3

They provide a military discount.

13
RUSTY BUCKET JAWSMACKIN BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Industrial exterior opens to a small, cozy space filled with vintage Texas-themed decor and old-school country charm. The atmosphere feels authentic and family-oriented, with a smokey aroma that lingers inside and out. Large picnic tables encourage socializing, making it suitable for casual lunches and gatherings.

Jaw-smacking BBQ delivers consistently with a delicious BBQ sauce and standout items like the Hogzilla pork BBQ. The BBQ sandwiches and overall flavors hold strong over many visits.

Atmosphere suits both romantic dates and casual hangouts. Pulled pork and brisket offer smoked flavors that impress, with hearty sandwiches that can be shared.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the sausage."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I've had."

"The brisket here is amazing, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Parking is very limited, so arrive early or consider alternative options.

3

Prices for BBQ plates start around $20, excluding drinks.

14
South Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Exposed brick walls and cozy booths create a warm, inviting atmosphere with a down south southern comfort vibe. The space features beautifully remodeled interiors and a covered patio ideal for relaxed dining. The setting feels kid friendly and suits casual gatherings or dates.

Meats like ribs and pulled pork have a strong smoke flavor and meet true Texas BBQ standards. The BBQ sauce is rich and flavorful with a good spice kick, and sides taste fresher and healthier than typical barbecue spots.

A really cute spot for a date with flavorful brisket and sausage. Pulled pork taco pairs well with a green beans salad for a tasty meal.

People are saying

"The American Food brisket here is so tender and moist."

"The brisket barbecue here is incredibly tender and moist."

"The brisket and beans at these Date Spots are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

South Barbecue is open from 11am to 10pm every day.

2

South Barbecue is BYOB.

3

Ordering to go is recommended due to the lack of air conditioning.

15
The Barbecue Station image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Renovated gas station with rustic decor and strong BBQ smoke fills the air. Casual, relaxed vibe with live bluegrass music and a Texas-themed atmosphere. Spacious dining area includes a kids' playground and a wood-fired oven outside.

Freshly barbecued meats offer a solid taste of Texas BBQ with great value for money. This spot stands out as a reliable choice for excellent barbecue in the area.

Lean brisket and sausage plates with beans and creamed corn create a solid meal for couples. Friendly service and authentic Texas barbecue make it a reliable spot for date nights.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is so good, you won't want sauce."

"I thought the barbecue here was great and delicious."

"I thought this was one of the best BBQ places."

Good to know

1

Prices at The Barbecue Station are very reasonable compared to other BBQ places.

2

Parking can be rough, so plan to arrive early.

3

Expect to know your order before getting in line to avoid delays.

16
Texan Sizzle image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall diner with a cozy atmosphere and pleasant background music. The space fills quickly, featuring a handful of small tables inside and some outdoor seating. The vibe is friendly and homey, focusing on quality food rather than elaborate decor.

Barbecue here features greasy Texas style with a spicy barbecue sauce. Brisket tacos blend barbecue flavor and heat while the Texas Bacon BBQ Melt arrives quickly.

Couples enjoy a variety of dishes together, often ordering multiple plates to share. The spot offers a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu options that suit leisurely meals during special occasions.

People are saying

"This sandwich was delicious, with tasty and juicy meat."

"These Date Spots have tasty burgers with fresh ingredients."

"The brisket tacos are the best barbecue tacos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available, so visitors will need to walk.

2

The location is small, with only a couple of indoor tables and very limited street parking.

3

The breakfast portions are unexpectedly large.

17
Zeke's BBQ SmokeHouse image 1

Simple, clean space with country music and a mom-and-pop vibe creates a friendly, comfortable atmosphere. Limited seating fills two indoor areas and an outdoor section, with jukebox tunes adding to the relaxed energy. The exterior shows wear, but the interior feels well-used and welcoming.

Barbecue here stands out for its delicious chopped sandwiches and notably tender turkey. The flavors are rich and the overall experience is consistently satisfying.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is tender and flavorful, truly a hidden gem."

"The Barbecue here is tender and flavorful."

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited to four per table.

2

The restaurant closes at 9:00 pm on Saturdays, but lights are turned off at 7:30 pm.

3

Parking is adequate for the size of the restaurant.

18
Noodles and Dumplings image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen with glass wall showcases handmade noodles and dumplings, creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. The vibe is friendly and positive, with occasional loudness during busy hours and no background music. Kids often engage with dough samples, adding a unique interactive element.

Sweet and savory flavors stand out in the BBQ pork bao and crab Rangoon. The menu also features soup dumplings and chicken fried rice alongside the BBQ bao.

Flavors stand out with Black Garlic Oil Ramen and orange chicken offering rich tastes. Colorful combo dumplings add variety, featuring veggie and beef options.

People are saying

"I found the colorful dumplings to be magnificent."

"The dumplings here are amazing and flavorful."

"The Barbecue bao buns are soft, pillowy, and insanely good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait time of about 20 minutes.

2

Hosts request payment through Cash App or Zelle at checkout.

3

All dumplings and noodles are made fresh in-house daily.

19
Gold Feather image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers outdoor porch seating with an open facade and plenty of big TVs for watching games. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting with a sports and man cave vibe. Music often features Paramore songs, adding a unique touch to the experience.

BBQ features a Sasquatch BBQ flavor that stands out. The menu includes BBQ nachos with a Jalapeรฑo Ranch Dry Rub that adds a spicy kick.

Lunch dates feature amazing service and chicken sandwiches with perfect heat. Options like the bun mi chicken sandwich and chicken brawt stand out for flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, thanks to attentive servers like Kay."

"The Sasquatch BBQ is a must-try flavor."

"The servers here are super friendly and make your date night experience better."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2 to 6 PM.

2

The happy hour offers $10 drinks and half-price appetizers.

3

Dine-in deals are available on Mondays.

20
Ilsong Garden image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant with an old school Korean and mom and pop atmosphere offers a quiet, peaceful vibe with K-pop music subtly playing in the background. Unlimited self-serve banchan station complements clean, pleasant dining tables. The space feels homely with beautiful plants and occasional big screen TVs.

Offers authentic Korean barbecue with an all-you-can-eat option. The barbecue pork belly stands out as better than most in the area. Also serves Chinese barbecue that is decent for the region.

A very quiet spot with a gorgeous, pleasant atmosphere suits a date well. Asian dishes like tteokbokki and dumpling soup offer tasty options to share.

People are saying

"The Korean food banchan here is amazing, especially the cucumber kimchi."

"The fried dumplings and seafood pancake are crispy and flavorful."

"I loved the all-you-can-eat Korean Barbecue here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 1:30 a.m. on weekends.

2

A service fee applies for groups larger than six.

3

Free banchan is included with every entrรฉe ordered.

21
One Pocha image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean restaurant offers private karaoke rooms with YouTube-connected screens and direct food and drink service. Atmosphere shifts from cozy and calming in dining areas to vibrant and lively in karaoke spaces. Small, sometimes cramped space fills with groups enjoying Korean BBQ and soju during busy nights.

Offers authentic Korean BBQ with all you can eat options. Combines barbecue and karaoke for a lively experience.

A very intimate setting makes it suitable for a date night. The atmosphere works well for both hanging out with friends and a fun date night.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the karaoke is great."

"I found the Korean Barbecue here to be so delicious and addicting."

"Ryan's service made my visit a 5-star experience."

Good to know

1

Karaoke is available for private groups, making it a fun spot for celebrations.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The buffet prices are $13.99 and $19.99, depending on the selection.

22
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

Casual dining space with a laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly environment. Bar area livens up late with dollar margaritas and regulars who enjoy socializing. Food offerings include big, juicy burgers and flavorful ribs, complementing the relaxed vibe.

Ribs come meaty and glazed with sticky, flavorful BBQ sauce. Honey barbecue riblets offer a tangy, sweet taste with plenty of sauce.

Smiles greet couples warmly, setting a friendly tone. Meals like the burger with fries come at an affordable price, with attentive staff following special requests closely.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and a great value."

"The food here is amazingly flavorful and delicious for date spots."

"The barbecue ribs here are so good, they practically fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers after 10pm.

2

Applebee's has all-day happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers.

3

The restaurant closes at 1am on weekdays.

23
BUSSIN' Q image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small family-owned barbecue spot offers a cozy atmosphere with spacious seating and a play area for kids. Music from a Friday night DJ adds to the welcoming vibe. The setting among food trucks in a neighborhood park creates a casual, comfortable experience.

Barbecue here is tender, juicy, and smoky, cooked to perfection with packed flavor. Unique options like barbecue ribs inside a burrito and bacon-wrapped Texas Twinkies add variety to the classic offerings.

Shared dishes like the stonerito and brisket fries offer tasty options for couples. Attentive service ensures all needs are met, making it a solid spot to impress on a date.

People are saying

"You have to try the dinoritto food; it's huge and feeds two or three."

"The barbecue here is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor."

"The Wagyu burger here is rich and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; use the lot a block away for easier access.

2

Expect to pay around $22 for a brisket sandwich and $6 for fries.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but bring cash for food trucks nearby.

24
B&B Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with cafeteria-style ordering and a cozy, lively atmosphere. Space feels cramped inside despite appearing spacious from outside, with a self-serve drink station for convenience. The vibe is family friendly and the decor is well decorated and cute.

Brisket stands out with great flavor and tenderness. The barbecue consistently delivers high quality that rivals big name spots and keeps people coming back.

Hearty ribs and a pulled pork sandwich with fries make solid choices for a date night meal. The spot has a cozy vibe that fits well for couples looking to enjoy barbecue together.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is tender, smoky, and full of flavor."

"The Barbecue here is tender, smoky, and full of flavor."

"The brisket here is delicious, melting in your mouth."

Good to know

1

They have daily lunch specials during the week.

2

Expect limited menu items near closing time on Sundays.

3

The BBQ sampler offers good value for the amount of food.

25
Howdy Child Smokehouse & Delicatessen image 1

Patio seating overlooks a park and fountain, creating a shaded outdoor space with beautifully curated decor and ample seating. The atmosphere is relaxed with good vibes, attracting those who appreciate local, scratch-made food in a clean, inviting environment.

Barbecue features tender brisket with a perfectly balanced sauce and a flavorful BBQ Sammie. The BBQ platter includes pork belly and sausage alongside good sides, while chicken wings have a generic sauce over a solid barbecue flavor.

Farmers market offers a relaxed vibe with fresh Pastrami at a booth. Nearby smokehouse has easy seating on holiday afternoons, making it simple to enjoy a casual date.

People are saying

"The pastrami Reuben here is tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"The barbecue here is tender and flavorful."

"You have to try the moist pastrami at these Date Spots."

Good to know

1

A small basket of 6 buffalo chicken wings costs $12.

2

The portion-to-price ratio of the brisket sandwich is hard to justify.

3

They didn't have half of their menu available, including advertised items like wings.

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San Antonio, Texas

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