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Ribs lunch spots in San Antonio

You need a lunch spot that serves ribs without making you feel like you have to rush through the meal.

Based on 788 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.

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

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."

"You have to try the competition ribs; they're 12/10."

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
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.

Ribs fall right off the bone with plenty of meat. They have a clean release and a next level flavor that stands out among other barbecue.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are so tender and flavorful."

"I thought the barbecue lunch spot was some of the best I've ever had."

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.

03
Mary's Snack Bar Cafe image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex cafe with a timeless vibe and quiet, relaxed atmosphere fills up with a diverse crowd speaking Spanish. Homemade tortillas and flavorful traditional dishes like carne asada and chile relleno define the experience. The place serves as a neighborhood staple known for quick, satisfying meals.

Fridays feature a Beef Rib special that draws regulars for its delicious flavor and satisfying portions. The rib plate consistently impresses and is a staple for lunch specials on that day.

Lunch specials include chile relleno, pork chops, and ribs. Quick service suits a short lunch break. Staples like tortillas, beans, and rice come with the plates.

People are saying

"You have to try the beef rib special on Fridays; it's amazing."

"The tortillas are homemade, soft, and warm."

"This Lunch Spot's chile relleno tastes like my grandparents'."

Good to know

1

The plate costs less than $8, making it budget-friendly.

2

Expect a crowded atmosphere around 10:30 am, especially on weekends.

3

Nachos are priced at $10, a popular menu item.

04
Twin Peaks image 1
Sports bar

Walls lined with multiple TVs show different sports and fights, ensuring no bad seat. The atmosphere is fun and energetic, often loud with risque server outfits adding to the vibe. Beers are served ice cold at 29ยฐF, complementing the lively sports bar setup.

Spicy Thai ribs come as an appetizer and entree, served separated for easy eating. Ribs and wings offer reasonable prices and pair well with sides like Mac and cheese and sweet potato fries.

Lunch service features quick delivery and attentive staff like Mercedes, Mia, and Vicky. Lunch combos are available, and servers such as Jalica, Adi, and Aliza provide friendly, great customer service.

People are saying

"The food here is good and fresh."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is amazing and attentive."

"I enjoyed some of the best ribs and wings here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available with great deals on drinks.

2

Expect large crowds on game nights and UFC fight nights.

3

Parking is available, but be cautious of vehicle safety.

05
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.

Ribs come off the bone easily with tender meat and a true Texas BBQ flavor. They pair well with brisket and pulled pork, making for a fantastic BBQ combo.

Lunch features brisket tacos and a chopped brisket sandwich rated highly. Sides include borracho beans.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are delicious and perfectly cooked."

"This Lunch Spot's brisket is juicy with a delicious bark."

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.

06
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.

Ribs stand out as the best ever had, praised by multiple people including family. They come alongside tableside-prepared enchiladas, queso, and guacamole, all noted for their quality.

Attentive service stands out with servers like Bash and Greg checking in often and keeping drinks filled. Lunch moves quickly even during the Saturday rush, making it a smooth spot for midday meals.

People are saying

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

"Our server made our lunch experience great."

"These ribs are the best I've ever had."

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.

07
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.

Tender sliced brisket sandwiches stand out for lunch here. The spot offers a great BBQ option with a quick, suitable atmosphere for midday meals.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's brisket is super soft, juicy, and delicious."

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

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.

08
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.

Lunch offers great specials with reasonable prices. Seating happens quickly even during busy times, and service is attentive.

People are saying

"My steak was cooked perfectly and seasoned well."

"This lunch spot's steak was delicious and perfectly cooked."

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

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.

09
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with Forrest Gump themed decor and riverwalk views creates a picturesque atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a clean, relaxed vibe with moderate noise and positive energy. Occasional character appearances and a souvenir shop add to the experience.

Baby back ribs melt in your mouth and come with very tasty shrimp. Kids ribs are also good for little ones.

Lunch offers delicious food with a scenic river view. Service is friendly and memorable, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the fried shrimp; it was the best I'd had in a long time."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is friendly and attentive."

"These baby back ribs just melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Expect a short wait time even on busy Saturday nights.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

10
Pollos Asados de Sinaloa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Drive-thru service offers a quick and efficient way to order with a small, clean salsa bar enhancing the experience. The atmosphere feels casual and family-oriented, with a cool vibe despite limited indoor seating. Generous portions and budget-friendly prices make it a practical choice for traditional Mexican meals.

Ribs hold juice inside every bite and come with delicious sauces, including a spicy option. Flat ribs stand out for their rich flavor and moist texture.

Lunch specials offer big drinks and include half a chicken or half a pound of meat with rice, beans, and an agua fresca for under $9. Meals can feed two people and provide great value on weekdays.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and seasoned perfectly."

"The lunch specials here are a great value, feeding two for under $10."

"The chef's cooking here is amazing; I want to visit when they're working."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials before 2pm offer half a chicken or half a pound of meat, rice, beans, and an agua fresca for less than $9.

2

Combo meals are available for under $10.

3

The drive-thru option is quick and efficient for ordering.

11
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.

The Dino rib stands out for its tenderness, flavor, and large size, with the bone sliding out easily. It comes with a light, lemony arugula salad and is so big it won't fit in a standard to-go box.

Lunch offers super flavorful dishes like the Dinnorito rib with portions that leave leftovers. Staff prepare non-alcoholic drinks to complement meals, fitting for work or casual dates.

People are saying

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

"These ribs are ridiculously tender and fall right off the bone."

"This lunch spot's brisket was fall-off-the-bone tender 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.

12
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.

Beef ribs come with a wonderful crust and a rich, moist interior without any liquid smoke or additives. Baby back ribs are meaty, tender, and perfectly cooked with great flavor and a good bite.

Freshly barbecued meats stand out for lunch, especially the chopped brisket sandwich. The spot serves solid, straightforward BBQ lunches that work well for family gatherings and casual meals.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are tender and very flavorful."

"I loved the tender, delicious barbecued meats at this lunch spot."

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.

13
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.

Ribs come tender and very large, packed with smoky flavor and a delicious sauce. Portions are generous, often making it hard to finish more than one.

Lunch features brisket poboy specials with generous portions and great taste. The spot handles busy lunch hours efficiently and offers affordable specials that make meals a good deal.

People are saying

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

"I thought the ribs were tender, smoky, and full of flavor."

"The chicken and brisket lunch plate was excellent."

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.

14
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.

Short ribs come with fall-apart meat, cooked potatoes, and a tangy salad. Mexican ribs taste fresh and are cooked to perfection.

Weekday lunch specials cost just $10. Food quality is okay, better at breakfast but decent for lunch. Suitable for friends or family gatherings.

People are saying

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

"The short ribs were amazing and super tender."

"The food at this lunch spot is delicious and authentic."

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.

15
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.

Lunch here offers quick service and good food by the water. Returning for lunch is common due to the consistent quality.

People are saying

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

"Monica made our lunch so pleasant and was a great server."

"I found the BBQ ribs to be delicious."

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.

16
True Texas BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant inside a supermarket offers authentic smoked barbecue with tender brisket and juicy ribs. The atmosphere stays quiet and casual, with a touchscreen ordering system replacing traditional service. Popular items often sell out near closing, reflecting high demand.

Ribs come out tender and juicy with a charred crust. The Dino rib is large, with meat falling off the bone and no need for a knife or sauce.

Weekend lunches feature True Texas BBQ with options to take dinner home. Kids enjoy the flaming bird and barbecue available at HEB for lunch.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is so tender and smoky."

"The ribs here are tender and juicy, with a delicious charred crust."

"The brisket here is very good."

Good to know

1

The kiosk ordering system can lead to longer wait times for food.

2

Prices for combo meals can be misleading; check for additional charges.

3

True Texas BBQ offers specials on Tuesdays.

17
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.

Lunch features a special deal that servers actively offer. Service stays consistent and attentive throughout the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fast and hot."

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot was amazing and enjoyable."

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.

18
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.

Lunch features Caesar salad and Filet Mignon as consistent choices. The setting suits birthday lunches and casual midday meals.

People are saying

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

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

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

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.

19
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.

Hot pot costs about $28 including tip for lunch. The spot works well for birthday lunches with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"The servers at this Lunch Spot are so great and always have a smile."

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

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.

20
Willie's Grill & Icehouse image 1
American restaurant

Garage doors open to blend indoor and outdoor spaces with old school signs and large tables for groups. Energy stays vibrant and welcoming, boosted by friendly staff who sing along and engage guests. A sandbox play area keeps kids entertained while adults enjoy signature cocktails and sports on multiple TVs.

Ribs come in a meaty half rack option with a rich flavor profile. They lean more toward decent than saucy but pair well with seafood and salads.

Lunch features tortilla soup and strawberry salad that pair well together. Service stays attentive, making the meal smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and the portions generous."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious and hot."

"These ribs were fantastic and meaty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-6 PM Monday to Friday with $3 draft beers.

2

Reservations are not required, but ordering is done at the counter.

3

Parking is easy and accessible for visitors.

21
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Bright, clean space filled with local Hawaiian music and a laid-back, friendly vibe. Busy during lunch, it offers authentic Hawaiian dishes with plenty of seating and an outdoor dining area. The atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, often accompanied by live Hawaiian bands.

Barbecue beef ribs stand out with a rich, smoky flavor. Plates often come with macaroni salad and sometimes cause a wait due to their popularity.

Quick plate lunches are available with options to order ahead for fast pickup. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a late lunch or when time is tight.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served in generous portions."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh, delicious, and generously portioned."

"I recommend trying their amazing barbecue beef ribs."

Good to know

1

Expect higher in-store prices compared to online orders for the same food.

2

The restaurant can get very busy during lunch hours.

3

Aloha Friday features live music and a raffle every second Friday in summer.

22
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.

Fresh food stays well stocked during the lunch rush with plenty of options ready even at breakfast. Lunch prices stay reasonable while offering tasty dishes like menudo.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has great, fresh food."

"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.

23
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Large aquarium anchors a clean, rustic space with an elegant yet chill vibe. Quiet atmosphere suits casual dining with family or friends. Tablet ordering and free honey butter croissants add convenience and unique touches.

Ribs come falling off the bone and very tender, with portions like a full rack under 20 dollars and a nice baby back portion that often leaves extra to take home.

Lunch offers a casual vibe with options suited for groups. Meals come with consistent quality and a menu that fits both lunch and casual dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always tastes homemade."

"The food here is really good and well-seasoned."

"The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price margaritas daily from 4-6pm.

2

The restaurant features daily specials that change regularly.

3

Payment is made at the table using a convenient system.

24
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 fall off the bone with a tangy, sticky BBQ sauce glaze. They stand out as a favorite dish alongside shrimp and chicken with different flavors.

Chicken Fajita Rollup stands out as a lunch favorite here. Staff handle the lunch crowd smoothly, making it a solid spot for business lunches under $15.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are meaty and glazed with tangy, sticky BBQ sauce."

"This lunch spot has great food, especially the burger and fries."

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.

25
Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food Restaurant image 1

Soul food restaurant with a cozy soul food vibe and simple dining setup offers a lively atmosphere filled with chatter and great music. The space feels welcoming and chill, encouraging conversation and laughter. Portions are generous, and the place often fills up, creating a vibrant dining experience.

Ribs here are tender and often fall right off the bone. BBQ pork ribs stand out as awesome, while pork ribs can be just okay.

Lunch servings come with generous portions and satisfying taste. Meals are available around midday, including Sundays.

People are saying

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

"The Lunch Spot food is excellent in value and taste."

"The ribs here are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early as they may run out of food.

2

The restaurant offers affordable specials around $9.50, including an entree, two sides, cornbread, and a drink.

3

Expect large portion sizes; many customers take food home.

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