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Chips and salsa spots in San Antonio

A table filled with chips and salsa keeps the conversation moving while the main meal is prepared.

Based on 874 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
VIVA! Cocina Patio and Bar image 1
VIVA! Cocina Patio and Bar image 2
VIVA! Cocina Patio and Bar image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers spacious outdoor patio and clean, welcoming indoor space with a family-friendly atmosphere. The vibe is fun and relaxed, attracting groups looking for casual dining and affordable drinks. It stands out with well-priced margaritas and a lively, comfortable setting.

Staff like Gloria and Santi provide attentive service during dinner. The spot suits occasions like birthdays and graduations with a welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality across meals.

Free chips and salsa come out fresh with every order. Multiple sauces add variety, and the tasty chips pair well with the salsa.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and hot."

"The food at these dinner spots is outstanding, hot, fresh, and delicious."

"I enjoyed the chips and salsa; they were very tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

On Mondays and Tuesdays, enjoy $3 margaritas and palomas.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties to avoid billing issues.

02
El Catrin Restaurant & Bar image 1

Bright, airy space with bright artwork and lots of seating creates a vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere. The environment stays not too loud, allowing easy conversation even during busy times. A bar area with TVs offers a spot for watching sports, while high chairs accommodate families with young children.

Hosting large groups works well here, with space for 30 guests. Pasta dishes serve as easy, reliable options for weeknight dinners that appeal to kids. Food quality encourages repeat visits for family dinners.

Fresh chips and salsa come with the meal, featuring an amazing unique flavor not commonly found elsewhere. The salsa includes a hot sauce that adds extra spice when used with other dishes.

People are saying

"I loved the spicy creamy sauce on these enchiladas."

"I found the breakfast here to be excellent and perfectly prepared."

"The food at this dinner spot is truly outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but arriving before 6:30 pm is advisable due to high demand.

2

Breakfast is served all day, offering a variety of options.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

03
La Siberia De Monterrey Mexican Bar & Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant with clean, modern decor and a family business vibe offers a friendly atmosphere that ranges from quiet to lively near the bar. The menu features delicious, authentic dishes and a variety of distinctive margaritas and micheladas at reasonable prices.

Dinner features Mexican Bar & Grill dishes paired with cold beer. The spot serves both lunch and dinner, with some visits showing mixed experiences.

Chips come with three dips, including a typical red salsa and a warm Mama Margie-style salsa with beans. The chips and salsas stand out as exceptional compared to other Mexican spots.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The pork belly chicharrones at these dinner spots are crispy and flavorful."

"I thought the chips and salsas with refried beans were done right."

Good to know

1

Mariachi music is played every Friday starting at 7:00 pm.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible from Interstate 37.

04
Mariscos y mas La Jaibita Mexican Seafood image 1

Mexican seafood restaurant with clean modern decor and papel picado decorations creates a friendly family atmosphere. A full bar with excellent cocktails and a jukebox adds lively music and social energy. The space feels welcoming and well spaced, making it comfortable for dining and drinks.

Atmosphere stays welcoming from morning through dinner with a casual vibe. It suits both family dinners and margarita date nights well.

Chips come out crispy and pair well with a warm salsa that has a rich red chili flavor.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be super good and fresh."

"The seafood dinner spots here are the best I've ever had."

"The chips and salsa here are crispy and warm."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is from 3pm to 6pm Tuesday through Friday.

2

Happy hour includes reduced prices on drinks and appetizers.

3

A full bar is available during happy hour.

05
Casa Sol Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Traditional Mexican decor with colorful murals creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The vibe stays calm and relaxing, suitable for quiet dinners and friendly gatherings. Delicious margaritas and well-regarded Mexican dishes complement the experience.

Quiet atmosphere suits dinner well. The Fajita Burrito Dinner stands out as fantastic. Other solid choices include Poblano Enchiladas and Queso Flameado. Prices stay fair for the quality.

Crunchy chips come with flavorful salsa and a side of queso. The combination is consistently well-liked and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I thought the chips and salsa were really good."

"The food here is great, especially the Poblano Enchiladas."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Free queso is offered on Fridays as part of a special promotion.

3

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos.

06
Nicha's Comida Mexicana - Southside image 1

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and a small, cozy space that reflects Mexican culture. Atmosphere is inviting and chill with wonderful music at a comfortable volume. Known for excellent margaritas and authentic dishes like enchiladas and fajitas.

Dinner features mole specials, good salsa, and margaritas. Servers like Kaydence ensure attentive service during meals.

Free chips and salsa arrive before the meal. The salsa is amazing and the chips are great. Food comes with all the trimmings of chips and salsa.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came out fast."

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the puffy tacos."

"The dinner spots here are packed with flavor, especially the enchiladas."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a reverse happy hour from 9 pm to close.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on Fridays with discounted appetizers.

3

Parking at Nicha's is limited, especially during peak times.

07
La Patrona Restaurant Patio Bar image 1

Outdoor patio offers spacious, covered seating with fans and air conditioning maintaining comfort. Live Mexican rock bands create a lively atmosphere with music and multiple TVs showing games. The vibe feels welcoming and energetic, blending beautiful decor with a festive, social energy.

Live music nights add a lively vibe to dinner. The outdoor patio offers a great spot for meals with friends or family.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly with appetizing flavors. The refried beans stand out as exceptionally good alongside the chips.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The chips and salsas here are fresh with a nice heat."

"The food here is delicious, especially the short ribs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM with $5 margaritas and draft beer.

2

Live music starts at 7:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Karaoke night occurs every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

08
Maria Bonita Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful decor creates a lively yet comfortable setting with ample indoor seating and a private party room. Live mariachi music adds authentic Mexican ambiance and energizes the space. The atmosphere balances laid-back vibes with moments of festive energy during performances.

Dinner here suits both intimate dates and large family gatherings. Service by Bibi stands out for being attentive and enhancing the dinner experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender beef fajitas."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and hot."

"They brought out tasty chips and salsa right when we sat down."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Fajita Tuesdays offer special pricing on fajitas all day.

3

Mariachis perform on Wednesday and Friday evenings during dinner.

09
Cafe Ole image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating along the riverwalk offers shaded trees, fans, and live mariachi music creating a relaxing atmosphere. Views of the river and people passing by add to the calm, enjoyable vibe. The place draws those looking to unwind with margaritas and authentic Mexican flavors.

Dinner here features attentive service from staff like Angel and Juan, who handle busy times smoothly. Groups face no wait times, and servers offer honest food suggestions tailored to preferences.

Complimentary chips and salsa come in a large amount and stay fresh. The salsa tastes amazing and pairs well with the chips.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"Monse made my dinner amazing and paid attention to detail."

"The chips and salsa here were amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 5 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Kids eat free with an adult entrรฉe purchase.

3

The restaurant is located on the River Walk, offering scenic views.

10
Chuy's image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Bright, lively space filled with inside palm trees and colorful decor featuring framed dog pictures and Betty Boop plates. Atmosphere feels fun and family-friendly, often busy during peak hours. Offers pet-friendly outdoor seating and a bar known for great margaritas and cold beer.

Dinner features quick service and delicious meals with a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Staff ensures the dinner experience is complete and enjoyable.

Chips and salsa come with every to-go order and stand out for their very flavorful taste. They pair well with burritos and margaritas, making them a popular choice for a casual night out.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and fresh."

"The servers here make your dinner feel exceptional and welcoming."

"The chips and salsa here are really flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant can get very busy during peak hours, so plan ahead.

3

Chuy's includes chips and salsa with to-go orders at no extra charge.

11
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Large wraparound bar with many TVs creates a lively setting, especially during sports events. Atmosphere ranges from laid back and calm to a bit loud, fitting casual dining and socializing. Known for affordable prices, quality food, and family-friendly touches like kids' menus and cups with lids.

Steak dinners stand out as a solid choice here. Friendly service from Liz and personal attention from Manager Joel make dinner feel smooth and welcoming.

Tortilla chips come out fresh and crispy with salsa that pairs well as an appetizer. Chips and salsa consistently arrive in great condition to start the meal.

People are saying

"I loved the smash burgers because they were juicy and tasty."

"The dinner meat was tender and juicy."

"The chips and salsa were fresh and crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is easily accessible from the interstate.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

12
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Dinner features attentive service with staff like Alonzo, Lizzy, and Julian checking in frequently. The menu offers amazing dinner and drink options guided by knowledgeable staff like DJ.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive quickly while waiting. The salsa pairs well with the table-side Guacamole and crunchy chips.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"The chips and salsa were served promptly by attentive staff."

"Our server Bash was so attentive, our drinks never went empty."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

13
Henry's Puffy Tacos Express image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cafeteria style setup and rustic decor featuring old photos and a blue plate on the wall. Atmosphere feels homey and laid back, with a family vibe and dim lighting. Busy spot known for puffy tacos and a popular salsa bar offering fresh sauces and Pico de Gallo.

Offers family dinners, birthdays, and group meetings with a casual vibe. Serves quick tacos and beer alongside good dinner and lunch options.

Complimentary warm chips and salsa come from a self-serve bar near the fountain drinks. Chips and salsa stay fresh and tasty even while waiting for food.

People are saying

"I found the puffy tacos to be delicious and amazing."

"You can help yourself to unlimited chips and salsa from the bar."

"You have to try the puffy tacos for dinner."

Good to know

1

You order at a counter and then find a table; food is called when ready.

2

Expect your order to be ready within 10 to 15 minutes.

3

Prices for tacos are around $5 each, which some may find high.

14
Henry's Puffy Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with Tex-Mex theme and Tejano music creates a lively, festive atmosphere. Spacious interior features western decor and many TVs showing sports. Energy stays moderate with upbeat music and a welcoming vibe.

Dinner features puffy tacos and a lively atmosphere suitable for group celebrations. Happy Hour and regular dinner service offer consistent options that satisfy various tastes.

Fresh and tasty chips come with a free starter of salsa. The salsa pairs well with the crispy chips, making it a solid choice compared to other spots.

People are saying

"I thought the puffy tacos were the best."

"The dinner spots here have great food and awesome, attentive service."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait during peak hours on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

15
Agave Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Riverside setting offers beautiful views and shady outdoor seating along the walk. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family friendly with live mariachi music enhancing the vibe. The space combines great decor with a peaceful, inviting environment.

Dinner features attentive service from staff like Tristyn, Randy, Angel, and Julia. The atmosphere supports a personalized dining experience with care and attention to guests.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with the meal and stand out as some of the better ones in the area. Plenty of chips and salsa are served, making them a notable part of the dining experience.

People are saying

"The food suggestions were great and the service was amazing."

"The servers here are so attentive and personable during dinner."

"The chips and salsa here are great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials offer discounted drinks and bar food.

2

Seating is available directly on the riverwalk for a scenic view.

3

Expect high prices for food and drinks, which may not match the quality.

16
Panchito's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Down-home diner with clichรฉ Mexican decor and comfortable seating creates a family-oriented atmosphere with Tejano music playing. Staff engage children with balloons and coloring activities, enhancing the welcoming vibe. Strong, fresh margaritas complement the lively, casual setting.

Dinner features very good Mexican dishes served in a setting that accommodates large groups comfortably.

Chips and salsa come only when you ask for them. Servers say there is no charge, but they do not bring them automatically, even with appetizer orders that include queso. The request-only policy is the key detail here.

People are saying

"Our server Cynthia was so friendly and attentive with our food."

"The dinner service was so attentive and friendly."

"You have to ask for chips and salsa here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

17
Pico de Gallo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a festive atmosphere with live mariachi music enhancing the experience. Walls feature soothing murals and the space includes ample seating with a charming, authentic vibe. The setting feels like a real Mexican mom and pop restaurant, quieter than typical tourist spots.

Dinner features great food and a friendly atmosphere for family meals. The spot also offers drinks alongside dinner options.

Chips and salsa come with the menu and are served after the main food. They are consistently solid and sometimes described as excellent.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and delicious."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and filling."

"The chips and salsa here were excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted appetizers.

2

Parking is free in the lot adjacent to the restaurant.

3

UT students receive a discount, but it may be hard to apply.

18
Don Pedro Mexicano image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and separate sections for large and small groups creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. High noise levels rise near areas with big parties and game viewing on large TVs. Live mariachi and roaming singers add lively entertainment to the experience.

Dinner features authentic flavors with options like the No. 2 Regular Dinner including cheese enchiladas and a beef puffy taco. Popular dishes include chicken fried steak and grilled seafood.

Chips come fresh and crispy with a generous serving of salsa that stays well replenished. The flavor balance between the chips and salsa stands out as particularly delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I could make a whole meal out of their chips and salsa."

"The enchiladas at these dinner spots are excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3pm to 7pm with $5 margaritas.

2

The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet on weekends from 8 to 11am.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties due to potential fees.

19
Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican-style building with beautiful patio and home-style atmosphere offers indoor dining, bar seating, booths, and terrace space. Live Mariachi music and a photographer create a lively, fun environment. Affordable prices and strong margaritas complement classic dishes like enchiladas and puffy tacos.

Celebration dinners feature cheese enchilada dinner that holds up well. The spot suits both luncheons and dinners for gatherings.

Chips come fried in a distinctive oil that adds a delicious flavor. Salsa pairs well with the authentic chips and is worth the charge.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was delicious."

"The dinner plates here are seasoned just right and taste fantastic."

"I loved the chips and salsa here; they were great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30 to 6:30 pm with discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers two tacos or enchiladas with rice and beans for $5.99.

3

Wednesday margarita specials feature $5 drinks all day.

20
Taqueria Chapala Jalisco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautifully decorated interior featuring fine wood booths and ornate chairs creates a cozy, quiet atmosphere ideal for conversations. The place stays packed and offers Latin music that enhances the experience without overwhelming the space.

Daily Specials include tea for both lunch and dinner. Dinner plates start around $13+, with burritos near $7.99. Drinks are available alongside dinner options like the number 2 plate.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly, showing fast service. The chips and salsa offer a good snack for chatting or working.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I've ever had."

"You'll love the tasty, authentic Mexican food at these dinner spots."

"I loved their chips and salsa; it made for a good snack."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 11:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

2

Reservations are not accepted at this restaurant.

3

Expect long wait times due to the restaurant's popularity.

21
Las Teresitas Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with clean, spacious interior and cute, unique dรฉcor offers a welcoming atmosphere where music and occasional dancing add energy. The vibe balances between old school charm and a quiet, relaxed environment. Regulars enjoy authentic dishes and a friendly, unassuming setting.

Dinner offers generous portions like the Chicken Monterey. Specials change regularly, providing varied options for a satisfying meal.

Chips and salsa come as complimentary and taste great. Sometimes you need to ask for them, but they are really good when served.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Mexican."

"The chips and salsa here are huge and amazing."

"The presentation of the dinner spots was marvelous."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot directly off the main road.

2

There is no handicap parking available.

3

You need to take cash to pay at the restaurant.

22
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar image 1

Live mariachi bands roam a spacious patio overlooking a market square, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The setting combines nostalgic decor with lively music, drawing a busy crowd that often sings along. Tables offer ample space, supporting a relaxed and engaging dining experience.

Dinner features a Deluxe Mexican Dinner with steak fajita, cheese enchilada, tamales, crunchy taco, rice, and beans. Service stays attentive throughout the meal.

Chips come with addictive flavor that feels like a special ingredient. Staff quickly offer refills and more chips and salsa when needed.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"The food at these dinner spots is always delicious and fresh."

"The chips and salsa here are great."

Good to know

1

Each song requested by the mariachis costs $10.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and snacks.

3

Parking discounts are available with a stamped ticket from the adjacent lot.

23
Ottoโ€™s Ice House image 1

Loud riverside spot with live country music and spacious outdoor seating overlooking the water. Energetic vibe with classic Texas ice house decor and a pet-friendly atmosphere. Frequented for good drinks and a lively crowd enjoying sports and music.

Offers a solid spot for early dinner with friends or family. Serves drinks alongside dinner options.

Chips come with a spicy salsa that rates around 8 out of 10. The salsa adds a nice kick to the crunchy chips.

People are saying

"You have to ask for James; he's the friendliest bartender."

"The dinner spots here have fantastic food, like dry rub wings and Wagyu hot dogs."

"The chips and salsa have a great flavor and texture."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Live music is scheduled on Saturday afternoons from 5 to 8 pm.

3

Expect a 50-minute wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

24
La Fogata Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patios with a waterfall and old wooden doors create a village-like interior that invites exploration. Live mariachi band performances add authentic Mexican energy, especially in the courtyard. The atmosphere feels like a resort vacation, blending beautiful design with lively music.

Family dinners and business meals happen here with friendly service and a fun atmosphere. The spot works well for Sunday dinners, dates, and special events.

Chips and salsa arrive quickly and come in tri-color chips. The salsa is endless while waiting and tastes very good.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the chips and salsa to be very good."

"Our server Katherine was super friendly and professional during dinner."

Good to know

1

Happy hour items include a margarita and half order of nachos for $10.

2

Mariachi plays every night except Monday.

3

Expect a wait time of one to 90 minutes without a reservation.

25
The Republic of Texas Restaurant image 1

Dining alongside the flowing river creates a bright, lively atmosphere with live Mexican and country music enhancing the experience. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable river views attracting families, couples, and solo diners. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a diverse menu complement the festive vibe.

Waterfront location sets a relaxed mood for dinner, whether romantic or casual. Friendly service from staff like Codi makes the meal enjoyable and adds to the fun atmosphere.

Freshness stands out with the chips and salsa served here. Both the drinks and salsa complement the crispy chips well.

People are saying

"Our server Jordan was amazing and provided an awesome dining experience."

"The staff here makes dinner spots amazing with their attentive service."

"I ordered the chips and salsa, and they were pretty good."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available all day long.

2

The restaurant is dog friendly.

3

Expect no wait for a table during off-peak hours.

26
Grand Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Cantina image 1

Lively Mexican restaurant with mariachi band and karaoke sets a festive mood. Spacious interior with ample seating and multiple TVs accommodates large crowds comfortably. Vibrant atmosphere features music, celebrations, and a patio bar.

Dinner features authentic Mexican flavors with a lively cantina atmosphere. Family-friendly seating and intimate options suit both group meals and romantic dinners.

Free chips and salsa come with every table. The salsa stands out as the best ever tasted and pairs well with the hot sauce served alongside.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the seafood."

"The dinner plates here were really good."

"I loved their chips and salsa; they were the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 11pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great pricing.

3

The buffet is available Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM.

27
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant with retro decor and a cozy, inviting atmosphere featuring live country western music. The space balances pleasant music volume and warm service, attracting a crowd for breakfast and lunch with fresh, authentic dishes and strong, well-crafted margaritas.

Dinner offers excellent dishes with options like tacos, chips, and salsa for around $12. The menu performs well overall, making it a solid choice for an evening meal.

Salsa stands out as very good and keeps people coming back. Chips come with salsa and sometimes guacamole, though they may need to be requested.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos here have incredible, fresh tortillas."

"The chips and salsa here are warm, spicy, and flavorful."

"These dinner spots serve authentic, mouthwatering Mexican dishes."

Good to know

1

Sunday is menudo day, offering a special dish for visitors.

2

The restaurant closes at 2 pm from Monday to Wednesday.

3

Poblanos is open until 7 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

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