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Best of San Antonio

Queso with outdoor space

An outdoor space that lets you enjoy your queso without the wind turning your chips into a mess.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Rita's on the River image 1
Rita's on the River image 2
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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.

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.

Outdoor seating sits right along the river, offering a relaxing and vibrant atmosphere. The space invites people to sit, watch others, and enjoy the charming river view.

People are saying

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

"You can sit outside along the river and enjoy the sights."

"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.

02
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 as excellent here. It pairs well with other dishes like pizza and fits the great atmosphere during day and night.

Cozy patio offers a great spot to relax outdoors. The space feels awesome and complements the inside vibe well.

People are saying

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

"The queso fundido was excellent."

"I loved the great outdoor seating here."

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.

03
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.

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.

Spacious outdoor seating offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of room to enjoy live music and food. The outdoor bar serves skinny margaritas, making it a solid spot to watch games on nice days.

People are saying

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

"The bartender James makes the best drinks in the outdoor space."

"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.

04
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.

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

The patio offers a kick-back atmosphere with several seating options. Misting fans keep the outdoor space cool and comfortable, and it is dog friendly.

People are saying

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

"The Beto queso was amazing and delicious."

"The outdoor space has misting fans to keep you cool."

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.

05
The Longhorn Cafe image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Spacious dining room with high ceilings and an open kitchen creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a cozy vibe with plenty of sunlight for large groups. A volleyball team adds a unique community aspect to the place.

Queso has a classic 80s-90s style that feels nostalgic. Chips and queso come together as an excellent combo with amazing flavor that recalls rodeo days.

Spacious outside patio offers room for party celebrations. Both indoor and outdoor dining options exist, with outdoor seating providing a more private experience.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were the best for the price."

"The chips and queso here are amazing."

"The burgers here are always good, especially with the sweet potato fries."

Good to know

1

The cafe requires ordering before sitting down, so it doesn't offer table service.

2

Expect a total cost of around $40 for a meal without drinks.

3

The menu offers three different vegetarian burger options.

06
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.

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.

Great outdoor tables offer a nice spot for eating in good weather. The area stays quiet enough for easy conversation, and the service remains attentive outside.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space has a sandbox for the kids to play in."

"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.

07
Ritaโ€™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.

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

Outdoor seating offers a beautiful river view and includes heaters to stay comfortable. The space can get a bit crowded but remains enjoyable.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are tender and juicy."

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

"The outdoor space has a great view and cheerful atmosphere."

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.

08
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.

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."

"I loved chilling in the outdoor patio with misting fans."

"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.

09
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.

Queso flameado stands out with its table-side preparation and pairs well with flour tortillas. Versions with meat add extra flavor, and the cheese and chips combo works great as an appetizer.

A huge waiting area features a saloon-style window for drinks facing a gorgeous patio with a waterfall and pretty lights. The outdoor space has a romantic vibe with birds and a hacienda-like look inside.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The outdoor patio is beautiful and reminds me of New Orleans courtyards."

"The queso flameado is so good, it gave me life."

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.

10
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.

Queso stands out with its spicy beef addition and pairs well with chips and chalupas. It complements dishes like cheese enchiladas and Santa Fe salad, making it a consistent highlight.

Outdoor seating offers views of the river walk with people and birds floating by. Tables near the balcony provide a chance to enjoy the scenery and live musicians while dining or having drinks.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"The patio staff let us enjoy the outdoor space without hurrying."

"Our server Justin was friendly and attentive."

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.

11
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.

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 jalapeรฑos and onion rings.

Patio seating offers umbrellas and fans for comfort in warm weather and welcomes dogs. The outdoor area feels cute and picturesque, creating a delightful daytime spot with an awesome vibe.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor space is cute and a delightful spot during the day."

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.

12
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.

Queso features a perfect blend of cheeses and spices that pairs well with house tortilla chips. It stands out as the best part of the meal and is often recommended alongside chips and salsa.

Outdoor seating sits right on the river's edge with patio dining and views of the water. The space offers both indoor and outdoor areas with air conditioning outside.

People are saying

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

"Sitting outside on the river walk with scenic views is really nice."

"The queso and chips were the best part of the meal."

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.

13
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.

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.

Outdoor seating includes a misted patio with views of downtown. Tables are available both inside and outside, creating a relaxed atmosphere for dining.

People are saying

"The tacos here are packed with flavor."

"The chips and queso were served like nachos."

"The tacos here are delicious and packed with flavor."

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.

14
La Gloria Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious outdoor patio offers al fresco dining with a playground and dog-friendly seating. Vibrant atmosphere features live mariachi music and colorful Mexican artisan decor. Energy is lively and family-friendly, with a festive vibe enhanced by unique art and shaded seating areas.

Queso stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with starters and tacos, though it leans mild and could use more spice for some tastes.

Spacious outdoor patio offers al fresco dining with a dog friendly vibe and a giant TV. The area includes a play space and attentive service even when quiet.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, I tasted the freshness in every bite."

"The outdoor space has a great playground and seating with lots of shading."

"I thought the queso was to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are available for $2, starting at 9:00 PM on Fridays.

2

Lunch specials are available, but you may need to ask about them.

3

The restaurant has a pet-friendly patio for guests with dogs.

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