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Ribs and desserts in San Antonio

You want a meal that starts with savory ribs and ends with a proper dessert.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Isidore image 1
Isidore image 2
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Restaurant

Restaurant features an open kitchen that adds a lively yet unobtrusive energy. Dimmed lighting and elegant design create a warm, romantic atmosphere suited for special occasions. Focus on Texas-inspired cuisine paired with an exceptional Texas wine program enhances the dining experience.

Dry aged pork ribs and Berkshire pork rib chop with mole stand out for their rich flavors. The menu also features dry aged wagyu steak and wagyu beef tartare that guests find memorable.

Unique sโ€™mores and delicious cheesecake stand out as dessert highlights. The pastry chef crafts outstanding sweets that make dessert a must.

People are saying

"The tasting menu's dishes were works of art."

"The wagyu steak here is absolutely incredible."

"The Berkshire pork rib chop with mole was outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during restaurant week.

2

Happy hour features popcorn chicken and runs from 4-6pm.

3

The tasting menu costs about $125 per person, with separate wine pairing prices.

02
Smith's BBQ image 1
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.

Ribs come out outstanding with a rich, smoky flavor. They pair well with brisket and sausage, all cooked to a tender, juicy finish.

Desserts come with memorable sides and pair well with sweet tea. Multiple plates often include a turkey leg and other delicious treats.

People are saying

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

"These ribs are so tender they just fall off the bone."

"I've never had BBQ this moist and flavorful."

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.

03
LongHorn Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers a relaxing atmosphere with comfortable, inviting decor and family-friendly vibe. Music volume adjusts to keep the environment mostly quiet, enhancing the warm and welcoming feel. Large groups fit easily, making it suitable for gatherings without noise or distractions.

Ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender and well-seasoned. Baby back ribs and half pork ribs come out perfectly cooked with rich flavor.

Chocolate Stampede stands out as a popular dessert choice. Complimentary desserts often come with celebrations like birthdays or graduations, adding a sweet touch to the meal.

People are saying

"My steak was cooked perfectly and seasoned well."

"The baby back ribs just fall right off the bone."

"You have to try the desserts here, they're so delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a long wait before being seated during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is friendly to service dogs and accessible.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

04
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.

Ribs come out very juicy and flavorful with a taste that impresses. They pair well with fajitas and brisket, making for a delicious Texas-style meal.

Brownie stands out as a dessert highlight, often recommended by staff. Other options include peach cobbler and chocolate mousse, rounding out a solid dessert selection.

People are saying

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

"I found the BBQ ribs to be delicious."

"The brownie dessert was the perfect ending."

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.

05
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.

Short ribs stand out with their freshness and rich flavor. Kalbi ribs and gojuchang pork belly offer bold tastes, while beef bulgogi and garlic pepper ribeye cubes add variety to the rib selection.

A surprise dessert tray can be arranged for special moments. Desserts come from a cold bar at the front. Options include a fantastic variety alongside hot pot and Korean BBQ.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"The servers here are so helpful and nice when recommending ribs."

"The desserts, like the macarons and ice cream, were delicious."

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.

06
J. Alexander's Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Dining room blends classic and modern styles with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that feels upscale without being pushy. Dress code encourages dressing nicely, attracting a crowd looking for a comfortable, classy experience. Bar area suits quick stops or waiting periods.

Ribs fall off the bone and come out extremely tender. Servers pay attention and offer alternatives if the ribs don't suit you. Both pork ribs and prime rib options are available, with the pork ribs often shared.

Carrot cake stands out with its flowy cream cheese frosting and a subtle pineapple flavor baked in, served as a thick yet fluffy slab. Chocolate cake paired with vanilla ice cream offers a rich, classic finish, while the dessert called Powerful Stuff adds variety to the sweet options.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's Thai Kai Salad is huge and bursting with flavor."

"The ribs fell off the bone; my husband was satisfied."

"The carrot cake dessert is excellent, with frosting that's not too sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The menu does not cater to vegan diets, so plan accordingly.

07
Golden Corral Buffet & Grill image 1

Buffet restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a clean, organized dining room that feels busy and lively during peak times. Tables sit close together, creating a cozy but sometimes crowded space. Country music plays softly, adding to the casual vibe.

Smoked BBQ ribs stand out with delicious flavor and tender meat. The selection includes pork ribs alongside other dishes like fried chicken and baked items.

Wide variety of desserts includes apple pie and banana halwa alongside comfort food classics. The dessert bar offers many options, making it stand out from other buffets with limited sweets.

People are saying

"The buffet's variety lets you try a little bit of everything."

"I loved the wide selection of good food, including the desserts."

"I loved the delicious smoked pork ribs."

Good to know

1

The price is $20 per person, excluding drinks.

2

Expect limited food options one hour before closing.

3

Veterans Appreciation Night offers special events for veterans.

08
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Modern design and vibrant interior create a fun, cozy atmosphere with sports on TVs and background music. Space feels a bit cramped with tiny tables, but energy stays positive and welcoming. Staff remain attentive, supporting a lively dining experience.

Ribs slide right off the bone and come in giant portions. They stay moist and tender without overcooking, making them consistently tasty.

Desserts come as thoughtful gestures, sometimes gifted by the manager for patience. Options include takeout desserts and treats enjoyed after meals, adding a sweet finish to visits.

People are saying

"The food here is fast and hot."

"The staff here is so attentive and accommodating, making it really Kid Friendly."

"The desserts here were amazing from start to finish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks must be consumed in the lounge area, not at the table.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

3

Expect a 15-20 minute wait during peak hours, but seating can be quicker.

09
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.

Ribs come in huge pieces that are tender and juicy. They fall off the bone easily and taste great even without sauce.

Sweet potato casserole serves as a dessert-like dish here. Other desserts also show appealing presentation and variety.

People are saying

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

"I thought the ribs and sides here were the best I had."

"The pecan pie bread pudding dessert was outstanding."

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.

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San Antonio, Texas

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