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Local picks in San Antonio

Ribs with outdoor space

You want to eat your ribs outside in a space that feels comfortable and unhurried.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Reese Bros Barbecue image 1
Reese Bros Barbecue image 2
Reese Bros Barbecue image 3
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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.

Outdoor seating offers a clean and welcoming atmosphere. An outdoor cooling fan keeps the area comfortable, allowing guests to sit outside in a sweater without sweating.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are so tender and flavorful."

"The outdoor space is great for enjoying the tender, flavorful brisket and ribs."

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.

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.

Outdoor seating offers a casual vibe with tables set outside. No indoor option exists, so all dining happens in the open air.

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."

"The outdoor seating here is really enjoyable, especially in the shade."

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
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.

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."

"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.

04
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.

Outdoor seating offers a patio area ideal for fall weather with quick cleanup of tables. Seating is outdoor only and there is no public restroom, so plan accordingly.

People are saying

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

"The ribs here are delicious and perfectly cooked."

"You can eat inside or outside on the patio."

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.

05
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.

Spacious, covered patio seating offers a comfortable spot with fans and heaters to maintain a good temperature. The area is clean, well kept, and features clear tarps that block out weather while letting in light.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space is nice and cozy with spacious, covered seating."

"The short ribs were amazing and super tender."

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.

06
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.

Outdoor seating sits right next to the river, offering great views of the riverwalk. The patio stays pleasant even in 90+ degree temperatures and features misters to keep guests cool.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space has misters that keep it pleasant even when it's hot."

"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.

07
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.

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."

"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.

08
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.

Outside features a clean patio with great seating options. Outdoor space fills up quickly when busy, making it a popular spot to eat.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the barbecue here was jaw-smacking good."

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.

09
Bakwood BBQ and More image 1

Warm, smoky aroma of hickory and mesquite fills a cozy space with limited indoor seating and ample outdoor tables shaded by tinted chairs. Blues music plays at a comfortable volume, creating a relaxing, homey vibe that suits families and groups. The outdoor area offers a backyard BBQ feel with a lively atmosphere and a carefully curated playlist.

Beef ribs come out tender, flavorful, and smoked to perfection. Pork ribs are also tender and delicious, making the two-meat plates filling and satisfying.

Outdoor space feels like a few friends hanging out, BBQing in the yard with a simple, real, family-style vibe. The outdoor eating area has a great atmosphere and the playlist is bomb.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing, tender, and flavorful."

"The outdoor space has a vibe with awesome music and a backyard BBQ feel."

"The ribs are tender, flavorful, and smoked to perfection."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available for customers.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

3

Expect large portions for the price compared to other BBQ places.

10
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.

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."

"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.

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San Antonio, Texas

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