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Mexican food and queso in San Antonio

Made for those who consider a bowl of queso a non-negotiable requirement when sitting down for a Mexican meal.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant with early 90s graffiti art and comic book design creates a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. Music features live DJ sets and tunes that enhance the Cali vibe. Large patio offers open indoor and outdoor seating for a relaxed dining experience.

Burritos here stand out as best Cali style with a big papa burrito that draws people from miles away. The breakfast and regular burritos both deliver rich, satisfying flavors that define the menu.

Loaded queso stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with nachos. It complements dishes like the Cali Sunrise and bacon guacamole burritos perfectly.

People are saying

"The burrito here is huge and full of flavor."

"The Mexican food here is huge and delicious."

"The burritos here are huge and flavorful."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant offers authentic California burritos made by owners from California.

3

Expect generous portions; sharing a burrito is common.

02
Cabo Bob’s Burritos image 1

Restaurant offers a laid-back beachside vibe with upbeat music and lively staff creating a buzzing yet cozy atmosphere. Seating includes mostly bar-height tables suited for groups, with some outdoor options. Busy lunch rushes bring a cheerful energy without feeling overwhelming.

Huge burritos come with fresh tortillas and a variety of options. The fish burrito stands out with fresh ingredients, and tacos are also highly praised for their flavor.

Queso stays hot and perfectly melted with a generous portion in a large bag of chips. The Brisket & Queso Burrito with Ancho chili tortilla pairs well, making the queso a standout item from quick service spots.

People are saying

"I found the burritos to be amazing and made with fresh ingredients."

"The fish in the Mexican food burritos and tacos is amazing."

"I thought the queso was one of the best I ever tried."

Good to know

1

Cabo Bob's is closed on Sundays.

2

You can call ahead to pick up your order at the window.

3

Expect cleanliness issues in the bathrooms.

03
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.

Fresh guacamole stands out with a vibrant, authentic taste. Refried beans carry a traditional Mexican style, rich and hearty. Tacos and queso also deliver strong, memorable flavors.

Large portions of Riverwalk Queso come with a rich, creamy texture and bold flavor. It pairs well with dishes like steak quesadillas and stuffed peppers, making it a standout item on the menu.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is on point, especially the stuffed Poblano."

"You have to try the queso; it's creamy and delish."

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.

04
TLAHCO MEXICAN KITCHEN image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a relaxed, cozy atmosphere with authentic clay dishware and classic Spanish pop music. Bright, lively vibe suits casual dinners or celebrations. Signature margaritas served in unique pottery cups add to the distinct experience.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with best tacos and truly traditional flavors. Breakfast plates include eggs and beans but lack tortillas at a $15 price. Margaritas are refreshing and well-made.

Queso fundido stands out with its homemade bean queso served alongside chips as an alternative to salsa. The queso fresco and queso fondita also complement dishes like tacos and mole enchiladas well.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and amazing."

"I found the Mexican food here to be truly authentic."

"You have to try the Queso Oaxaca fundido with Rajas."

Good to know

1

Pozole is only available on Saturday and Sunday.

2

Live mariachi music is featured on Friday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended due to a 35-minute wait time.

05
QUESO PAN Y VINO image 1

Restaurant combines open kitchen and separate bar area with indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays intimate and elegant with amazing background music enhancing the chill vibe. Spacious bar upstairs includes a cigar lounge, making it suitable for both dining and socializing.

Queso fundido stands out with its excellent flavor. The spot offers a great atmosphere paired with cucumber margaritas that complement the Mexican food well.

Queso fundido stands out as excellent here. It pairs well with other dishes like pizza and fits the great atmosphere during day and night.

People are saying

"The pizza here is delicious with top-notch ingredients."

"The queso fundido was excellent."

"The Mexican food's queso fundido was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations may be needed for large parties on weekends.

2

Street parking is available, but be mindful of signs.

3

Ride-sharing services are recommended for responsible wine enjoyment.

06
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.

Chicken and beef fajitas come with rich, marinated flavors. Cheese and Poblano enchiladas offer creamy, well-seasoned options. Chips, salsa, and guacamole stand out with fresh, memorable tastes.

Queso stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with chips and salsa. Specials include free queso on Fridays and a Taco Tuesday deal that highlights this dish.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I thought the cheese enchiladas were the best Mexican food."

"The queso here is really good, especially with picadillo."

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.

07
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.

Enchiladas stand out with varieties like green, poblano, and chipotle, all consistently flavorful. Plates often include fajitas, mole, and hearty options like the Texas Fried burrito, paired with great chips and salsa.

Queso shines with a smooth, rich texture and a taste that turns skeptics into fans. It stands out as liquid gold that pairs perfectly with other dishes.

People are saying

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

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

"The queso here is liquid gold, truly excellent."

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.

08
Schott's Meat Market image 1

Small town butcher shop offers high-quality cuts including unique specialty meats like Wagyu and wild game. Atmosphere stays calm and welcoming, with a family-owned feel that supports local products. Selection extends beyond meat to include spice mixes, preserves, and grilling supplies.

Marinated beef fajitas stand out with tender, rich flavor and a decadent taste. The wagyu fajita meat pairs well with yummy sides like jalapeno popper dip, beans, and street corn.

Stock includes queso alongside grilling essentials like charcoal and utensils. Prepared options feature seasoned meats and jerky paired with queso.

People are saying

"I found the variety of sausage and specialty sticks to be impressive."

"I loved the wagyu fajita meat; it tasted so fresh."

"The Mexican Food here is so flavorful, especially the tender fajitas."

Good to know

1

Schott's Meat Market offers a fantastic selection of specialty cuts and options.

2

Prices at Schott's Meat Market are competitive for the quality of meat.

3

The market is known for its cleanliness and organization.

09
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.

Seafood enchiladas stand out with rich flavors. Beef fajitas, cheese enchiladas, and warm flour tortillas offer classic, satisfying tastes. Chicken enchiladas also deliver strong, memorable flavor.

Chips come with fresh salsa and creamy queso that stays thick, not watery. The queso arrives quickly and pairs well with dishes like ribeye street tacos.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here has excellent, spicy margaritas."

"The queso here is great and not watery."

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.

10
Josephine Street image 1
American restaurant

Historic building with a 500-year-old tree growing through the roof creates a unique setting. Atmosphere blends old school diner vibe with open kitchen and oldies music, offering a cozy and lively experience. Patio seating welcomes dogs and features umbrellas and fans, adding to the casual charm.

Frozen $5 margaritas come with a strong flavor. Chips arrive with various delicious salsas. Chicken Acapulco features chili con queso, and the spinach dip and queso stand out as best options.

Sausage and queso come together with South Texas flavor and crispy sausage with grilled onions. Chips and queso stand out among appetizers, paired well with stuffed jalapeños and onion rings.

People are saying

"I found the chicken fried steak to be the best I ever had."

"The chips and salsa here are fresh with just the right amount of kick."

"You have to try the queso; it's fantastic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm on Tuesdays with $1.00 off specials.

2

During happy hour, appetizers are half price.

3

The Spurs watch parties offer a bus service to and from the games.

11
Sanchos Cantina & Cocina image 1

Outdoor seating dominates with a rooftop bar and patio offering a kick-back atmosphere. Live music plays most days, featuring free jazz and local bands that create a relaxed vibe. Food and drinks focus on Tex-Mex tacos and margaritas, praised for quality and flavor.

Carnitas tacos melt in your mouth and stand out as a highlight. Frozen margaritas and torta sandwiches also draw attention for their flavor and quality.

Queso features freshly made chips and a delicious Beto queso that stands out. The queso consistently impresses with its rich flavor and smooth texture.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is savory perfection, especially the tacos."

"You can hear live music almost every night here."

"The Beto queso was amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $4 frozen margaritas and $10 frozen flights.

2

Karaoke night is on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Live jazz performances occur every Monday night featuring local musicians.

12
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.

Puffy tacos stand out with their unique, life-changing tortillas and come in multiple flavors like chicken, beef, and carne guisada. The menu also features authentic Mexican dishes like cheese enchiladas and guacamole tacos, all served with consistently on-point queso and friendly service.

Queso comes with freshly fried corn chips and stays consistent in taste and texture. It pairs well with margaritas and stands out alongside dishes like carne guisado and picadillo.

People are saying

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

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

"I tried the queso and it was amazing."

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.

13
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.

Brisket tacos come with cole slaw and pair well with queso blanco. Shrimp and chipotle ribeye tacos are large and flavorful. Complimentary chips with salsa or queso often arrive, especially for first-timers or during waits.

Complimentary chips and queso often come with orders, showing attentive service. The brisket queso blanco stands out, and the chips and queso pair well with items like Buffalo bites and steak.

People are saying

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

"The shrimp tacos here are huge and delicious."

"Darius gave us complimentary chips and queso."

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.

14
Panchito's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Down-home diner with cliché 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.

Enchiladas come filled with chicken and covered in tasty sauce, especially the suizas and verdes varieties. Fajitas arrive meaty and tender, served with house-made corn tortillas. Salsas are excellent, and puffy tacos pair well with margaritas.

Queso here has actual flavor and does not just taste like melted cheese. The Panchitos queso stands out as amazing and pairs well with chips and appetizers like nachos and empanadas.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the Panchitos queso, it had actual flavor."

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.

15
Mala Fama Bar & Nightclub image 1

Bar with balcony patio overlooking riverwalk offers a cool atmosphere with live DJs upstairs creating great vibes. The space combines air conditioning and awesome decor for a comfortable, trendy spot to enjoy music and drinks.

Generous portions like the 1-pound chicken fajitas easily feed four. Street tacos de pastor and rich queso stand out, paired with affordable margaritas and a solid drink selection.

Queso fundido stands out with rich, melty cheese that pairs well with chips. The combination of tacos and queso offers a delicious, satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is excellent."

"The Riverwalk views from up here are awesome."

"The queso Miranda recommended was delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and drink specials all night.

3

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

16
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.

Puffy tacos stand out as the signature dish, known for their unique texture and flavor. The menu also features Birra Tacos and classic Tex-Mex options, all served with consistent quality and flavor.

Queso comes with a flameado presentation that includes a small flame show at the table. It has a kick that makes it addictive and pairs well with chips.

People are saying

"I thought the puffy tacos were the best."

"I thought the puffy tacos were the best Mexican food."

"You have to try the queso; it's addictive."

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.

17
Rita’s Riverwalk image 1

Big space with outdoor seating and river views creates a lively, festive atmosphere. Energy comes from mariachi bands and enthusiastic staff, making it popular for groups and tourists. Fresh margaritas and hand-made tortillas complement the vibrant vibe.

Red enchilada plate stands out for its flavor. Pork street tacos and chicken fajitas offer solid options. Margaritas use fresh lime juice and smooth tequila without artificial ingredients.

Cheese dip stands out as super delicious and great in flavor. It is a must-try dish here.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are tender and juicy."

"The Mexican Food margaritas here are outstanding with fresh lime juice."

"The queso here is served with such joy and kindness."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $50 for a meal for one adult and one child.

2

No complimentary chips and salsa are provided with meals.

3

The restaurant runs out of popular items like tacos early in the evening.

18
Otto’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.

Taquitos stand out as a must-try appetizer. The crispy redfish tacos and carne asada nachos also deliver strong flavors and solid portions.

Chips and queso arrive quickly, sometimes before drinks. The queso pairs well with fried pork rinds and a smash burger. Chips tend to be very salty.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here made me feel so welcomed."

"Our queso came out fast, but the chips were way too salty."

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.

19
Smash'd image 1
Bar & grill

Small indoor space feels like a cozy house with large outdoor patio featuring misting fans, picnic tables, and an outdoor beer tap. Atmosphere balances live music energy with casual, relaxed dining. Crowd enjoys late-night vibes with a focus on burgers and craft drinks.

California Burrito stands out with juicy brisket, cheddar, sour cream, fries, and guacamole wrapped in a grilled tortilla. Carne asada fries feature well-seasoned, tender meat. Burritos and burgers offer solid, flavorful options.

White queso stands out with a deceptive flavor that surprises. Chips and queso come as a common appetizer option.

People are saying

"This bar's smash burgers are unique and delicious enough to keep me coming back."

"The carne asada fries here are well-seasoned and crispy."

"The burgers were fine but could have used more seasoning."

Good to know

1

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

2

Happy hour runs from 10 PM to 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

Monday offers $1 wings and free live music.

20
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.

Chicken and beef fajitas come with charro beans, grilled peppers, onions, guacamole, and both corn and flour tortillas. The menu features queso flameado, cabrito tacos, and chile enchiladas, all fresh and flavorful.

Queso flameado stands out with its rich, greasy texture and delicious flavor. Chips served alongside complement the queso well, making it a solid choice for a cheesy snack.

People are saying

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

"I've been coming here for over 40 years for the delicious Mexican food."

"The queso flameado was insanely delicious."

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.

21
Ay Que Chula image 1
Restaurant

Open-door venue with colorful décor and small round tables creates an airy, lively space. Atmosphere stays energetic and upbeat, fueled by drag shows and local dancers performing with skill. Music and cocktails add to the festive vibe, making it a spot for parties and social gatherings.

Birria quesadillas stand out with rich beef and cheese, often paired with large margaritas. Red chilaquiles and seasoned guacamole add variety, while chips and salsa complement the menu well.

Loaded waffle fries come covered in creamy queso. Queso Fundido pairs well with hot, perfectly seasoned chips. The queso options are rich and flavorful.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazingly tasty."

"You have to try the birria quesadillas; they did not disappoint."

"The loaded fries covered in queso were good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the drag brunch to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during weekend brunch hours.

3

The drag brunch occurs on Saturdays and Sundays with a cover charge.

22
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.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and tender fillings like barbacoa and carne guisada. Breakfast tacos come in perfect portions, and the green salsa on enchiladas adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Queso has depth and pairs well with chips and enchiladas. The Trio featuring salsa, guacamole, and queso offers a delicious combination.

People are saying

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

"These breakfast tacos are a great start to the day."

"I thought the queso was super good."

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.

23
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.

Tacos al carbon with beef fajitas and chicken fajitas stand out with fresh homemade tortillas that have a powdery feel. Chips and salsa come with to-go orders, and enchiladas topped with queso, especially the chicka boom boom style, offer a great selection of Mexican dishes.

Chips come with great queso that tastes like an easy crock pot dish served all day. The queso pairs well with guacamole and burritos.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mexican food here was really good and satisfying."

"I loved the chips and queso."

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.

24
La Fonda Alamo Heights image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a comfortable atmosphere and relaxing music that allows easy conversation even in large groups. Features a nice patio and a secluded back room for bigger parties. Known for excellent margaritas and a menu with standout dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and tamales.

Authentic Mexican dishes like Guerro Guapo and puffy tacos stand out for their flavor and consistency. The margaritas are excellent, and the Rick’s Queso is a popular choice among groups.

Rick’s Queso stands out as a must-try and pleases groups well. The queso and chips pair nicely with street tacos and appeal to all ages.

People are saying

"I enjoyed delicious authentic Mexican food; it was amazing."

"These beef fajitas are the best I've ever had, so soft and flavorful."

"I thought the queso was great and delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant hosts graduations, weddings, and business parties.

3

Menu items are not marked as gluten-friendly, making it hard for gluten-free diners.

25
Mengerita Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor patio with misted seating overlooks downtown, creating a lowkey and fun vibe. Indoor space feels small and divey with cold air conditioning. Crowd enjoys fresh, affordable tacos and high-quality frozen margaritas in a quiet, simple setting.

Tacos feature real barbacoa and fresh ingredients with a variety of flavors like pulled pork and house favorites. Frozen margaritas come with a great kick and are made by machine, offering a refreshing complement to the food.

Chips with queso come served like nachos with cheese layered over dry chips. The queso pairs well with tacos, especially the pulled pork variety, and stands out as a notable side.

People are saying

"The tacos here are packed with flavor."

"The chips and queso were served like nachos."

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a discount on tacos.

2

The restaurant is located downstairs in the Menger Hotel, right across from the Alamo.

3

A daily special includes a 2 taco plate with a drink for under $10.

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