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Beer bars in Downtown SA

A bar with a beer selection that prioritizes craft over just filling a glass.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Big Aztec Corner Bar image 1
Big Aztec Corner Bar image 2
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Small, intimate cocktail bar offers chill vibes with slow, smooth music and a comfortable atmosphere. It attracts service industry people and downtown commuters seeking a quick lunch or drink. Gourmet hot dogs and craft cocktails stand out as distinctive features.

A dive bar with a comfy, accessible vibe offers amazing cocktails and gourmet hot dogs. Staff provide awesome service in a space suited for quick lunches or intimate drinks downtown.

Beers come ice cold and are served at the bar during happy hour. The selection offers a delicious taste that stands out.

People are saying

"Chrissy makes the American food here taste like a five-star experience."

"Chrissy at the bar makes drinks with love and is genuinely awesome."

"Chrissy made the beer taste like a five-star experience."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

The bar is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Gourmet hot dogs are the specialty, offering a unique twist on a classic.

02
Roadmap Brewing Co. image 1

Taproom combines visible brewing equipment with dog-friendly spaces and casual games, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Large, open layout offers room to relax or watch sports without loud noise. Food trucks outside serve noted burgers, complementing the highly regarded beer selection.

A friendly and comfortable brewery bar offers a view of the brewing kettles. The pub ale and NEIPAs stand out, and the regulars at the bar are welcoming.

Bold, creative IPAs and a gold medal-winning pilsner stand out here. Knowledgeable staff offer tailored beer recommendations and pairings with world-class coffee.

People are saying

"The beers here are tasty and unique."

"I enjoyed the amazing, delicious coffee here."

"The bartenders here are the best and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Coffee is served from 8AM to 3PM, and beer starts at 10AM on Sundays.

2

Happy hour prices are available with great specials on weekdays.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

03
4th bar and lounge image 1

Dive bar with a local atmosphere plays 80s to 2000s Mexican music while DJs keep the energy up on weekends. The vibe stays chill and mellow with reasonable drink prices and attentive security. Regulars and visitors gather for a fun, laid-back experience.

A mellow dive bar with good drinks and reasonable prices offers a fun, laid-back vibe. Friendly bartenders and solid music create a spot where people have a good time consistently.

Affordable beers come with great taste and a friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and attentive."

"The DJ really knew how to keep the party going."

"The beer here is affordable and the company is great."

Good to know

1

Drink prices are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour specials are available, but specific times are not mentioned.

04
Bondโ€™s 007 Rock Bar image 1

Two-floor bar with live rock and metal bands upstairs and pool tables downstairs creates a layered experience. The atmosphere is energetic and welcoming, with a crowd that interacts closely with performers. Good acoustics and stage lighting enhance the concert feel in a compact venue.

A rock bar with a dark, old vibe hosts live music including tribute bands. The top floor bar offers happy hour pints at $2, while the downstairs bar provides a quiet spot to relax.

Cold beer comes in impressive mugs including a Big Beer Mug. A top floor bar offers happy hour pints at $2 each with three beer options. Music plays alongside the drinks.

People are saying

"I love checking out the local bands that play upstairs here."

"The bar has great music and vibes."

"The beer here is so cold and chill."

Good to know

1

The Sunday happy hour deal goes until 10 PM with great drink specials.

2

Pints of three different beers cost $2 each during happy hour.

3

Seating space is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

05
Pink Shark image 1

Bar space features disco ball shark, production-level lighting, and a secret speakeasy lounge behind a fake vending machine. Atmosphere shifts from super chill and eclectic upfront to a lively club vibe in the back. Music plays continuously with a DJ, and art pieces create multiple photo opportunities throughout.

Secret speakeasy adds a fun twist with a hidden bar lounge. Drinks stand out as different and exceptional. The vibe includes pink lighting and a mural, plus a snack menu.

Beers come cold and affordable, with some priced as low as $2. The selection includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, paired well with food offerings.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so personable and skilled at their craft during Happy Hour."

"The drinks here are really good and varied."

"The beer here is great, and the staff is so friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 8 PM with a variety of drink specials.

2

Pink Shark has a secret bar located past the bathrooms.

3

Food is available at certain times, including snacks and small plates.

06
Back Unturned Brewing Co. image 1

Retro-style brewery offers a family-friendly vibe with pet-friendly indoor space and ample TVs for games. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, blending comfort with craft beer flights and casual fun. Small size enhances a cozy, social environment where kids and dogs fit naturally.

A small, hole-in-the-wall bar with a brewery vibe serves very tasty pizzas at the bar. Service at the bar is friendly and attentive.

Craft beer options include the Queen of Beers, Dream Juice, and a cherry beer. The Belgians be Bitchin IPA balances hops well without being flat. Beer pairs well with pizza and salad specials.

People are saying

"I loved their exceptional craft beer, especially the Vienna lager."

"They were so accommodating to my kids, even making pink lemonade."

"This bar has exceptional beer that compelled me to reorder."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $5 appetizers on weekdays from 4-7pm.

2

Trivia night occurs on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7pm.

3

Brunch is served on weekends with daily lunch specials available.

07
Lo Cura image 1

Bar under a bridge along the riverwalk offers river views and water misting fans that keep the area cool. Atmosphere blends chic and fun vibes with lively energy, especially at the riverfront bar where people watch and boats pass by.

A cool bar under a bridge offers great drinks and a unique setting on the riverwalk. Friendly bartenders like Ben and Sam provide kind service and share local insights.

Happy hour features $5 beers alongside a mix of cocktails and frozen drinks. The beer wrangler ensures a great selection, with the IPA and signature drink offering a refreshing and bold combo.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and make you feel so welcome."

"The walking tacos are a solid value at $5."

"The beer here is great, thanks to the friendly and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 5 PM with $5 beers and tacos.

2

The happy hour walking tacos cost $5.

3

Grab a seat at the bar when Ben is working for great service.

08
El Honky Tonk image 1

Bar with live country music and a true honky tonk vibe offers a lively yet mature atmosphere where people come to dance and enjoy ice-cold beer. The space feels welcoming and familiar, with a crowd that avoids college-age energy for a more relaxed experience. Air conditioning keeps the environment comfortable even during energetic nights.

A lively country bar with a true Honky Tonk vibe and live music at night. The bar features phenomenal service with bartenders who multitask smoothly while creating a welcoming, familiar atmosphere.

Ice cold bottles of beer are standard here, kept chilled by effective air conditioning. The spot serves as a solid joint to grab a cold beer after work.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and attentive."

"The live music here is great and enjoyable to sing along with."

"The beer here is ice-cold."

Good to know

1

On Friday nights, there is live music and dancing.

2

No food is served at the bar, but a food vendor sells street tacos outside.

3

Parking is limited around the venue.

09
Durty Nelly's Irish Pub image 1

Small Irish pub with live piano music and a lively party atmosphere along the riverwalk. Interior features authentic Irish decor and a wall honoring service members, creating a space that fills up on weekend nights. Outdoor seating and a rooftop lounge add variety to the experience.

Small and authentic, this bar features a live piano that energizes the crowd with sing-alongs and dancing. Fast, excellent service supports a lively atmosphere, especially during holiday celebrations and pub performances.

Broad selection of beer and drinks includes excellent Guinness beers. Beer pairs well with food, and the overall quality of beer and service stands out.

People are saying

"The piano sing-alongs here are so much fun."

"The piano bar here is so entertaining and lively."

"The beer here is cold."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a seat.

2

The pub gets very crowded on weekend nights, especially during performances.

3

The piano man performance is a highlight, often featuring sing-alongs.

10
Maverick Distilling image 1

Historic building with deep Texas roots creates a warm, rustic atmosphere filled with Texas heritage and elegant design. Quiet space offers world-class whiskey and small-batch spirits alongside educational tours that highlight local history and craftsmanship.

Upstairs offers a beautiful bar with inventive cocktails and elevated comfort food. Drinks like the smoked old fashioned stand out.

Exceptional whiskeys and beers stand out here, with options like the Sunny Blonde Ale gaining attention. Knowledgeable staff provide detailed info on the beers on tap.

People are saying

"This whiskey is bold, balanced, and unapologetically Texan."

"The staff here are super friendly and knowledgeable about the beer."

"The bartender Michael was fantastic."

Good to know

1

The upstairs bar is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

2

Tours provide insights into whiskey production and the distillery's history.

3

Whiskey flights are reasonably priced at $15.

11
The Rose of San Antonio image 1

Cocktail bar offers live music with a chill atmosphere and ambient lighting. Seating includes couches and comfy chairs alongside high top tables and a well-stocked bar. The vibe is relaxed yet upscale, drawing a crowd that enjoys well-crafted drinks and good tunes.

Upscale bar with a sophisticated yet neighborhood feel offers creative drinks and unique bar bites. The atmosphere feels classy and welcoming, paired with good service and tasty food.

People are saying

"The bar's craft cocktails were excellent and reasonably priced."

"The live music creates such a great, relaxing atmosphere."

"I'm a beer drinker and they had good beer."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with budget-friendly drink specials.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 9pm.

3

The bar offers a late-night cocktail experience until 2am on weekends.

12
Menger Bar image 1

Wood-paneled bar with historic decor and period memorabilia creates a cozy, lively atmosphere filled with stories of past dignitaries. Loud but comfortable energy draws a mix of patrons who appreciate its old European pub feel and rich character. Live acoustic music adds to the engaging vibe.

History fills the room with bullet holes from Teddy Roosevelt and a moose bust on the wall. Wood paneling creates a cozy, old European pub feel that reminds some of a proper English pub.

Beers sell for around $3 to $3.25 each with options to go. Stock often limits choices to Miller but includes non-alcoholic beer. Alamo beer is available and noted as solid.

People are saying

"This bar is a slice of American history where Teddy Roosevelt recruited Rough Riders."

"You have to try the pineapple upside down martini; it's amazing."

"The beer here has a really cool, historic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The bar offers drink specials that are cheaper than the regular menu prices.

2

Expect higher prices for drinks, especially for imported beers.

3

The bar is located just steps from the Alamo, making it a convenient stop.

13
The Esquire Tavern image 1

Longest wooden bar in Texas stretches over 100 feet, setting a historic and classy tone. Romantic, old-timey atmosphere blends with classic rock music and a lively speakeasy downstairs. Multiple floors offer varied experiences, including an outdoor patio overlooking the river.

A historic bar with the longest wooden bar in Texas offers great drinks and good food. A speakeasy downstairs adds a cool vibe for enjoying drinks and ambiance.

Bartenders offer expert recommendations on craft beer and tequila. The bar serves ice-cold beer including a house-made brew exclusive to the spot.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are fantastic."

"Daniel's awesome, he really made our experience better."

"It's a cool old bar with an awesome atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with drink specials available.

2

Lunch food specials and happy hour drink specials are offered Monday through Friday.

3

Food includes $2 deviled eggs during happy hour.

14
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.

Monica, Victor, and Black Beard stand out behind the bar with their attentive and personable service. The bar atmosphere feels welcoming, with staff ready to handle unique drink and food requests.

Staff provide knowledgeable beer recommendations and explain local brews clearly. The menu pairs well with drinks, featuring items like the Beer and Burger and cold beer with nachos.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating along the river walk is perfect for scenic views."

"Monica at the bar gave excellent, friendly service."

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.

15
Idle Beer Hall & Brewery image 1

Big open-air conditioned brewery with pool tables, arcade games, and a huge dog-friendly outdoor patio creates a lively, chill atmosphere. Stylish wood-beamed design adds an old world feel without pretension. Crowd enjoys cold, excellent beer alongside casual games and live music.

Waiting in line pays off for the badass selection of cocktails and a fully stocked liquor bar alongside their brewery picks. The bar offers great beers and cocktails but some prefer other spots more.

Offers a wide variety of craft beers that rank among the best in the city. The huge, dog-friendly outdoor patio adds to the fun atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends.

People are saying

"I found the beer here to be amazing and delicious."

"This bar is totally dog-friendly, I saw so many pups inside."

"It's solo friendly with air hockey, skee ball, and pinball."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with great deals on drinks.

2

Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night, starting at 8 PM.

3

The brewery allows food from the adjacent market but has a strict no outside drink policy.

16
River North Icehouse image 1

Large revitalized warehouse with spacious indoor and outdoor areas features hanging greenery, paper lanterns, and disco balls. Energetic atmosphere thrives with live music, DJs, and big screens showing sports and games. Outdoor patio offers food trucks, lawn games, and ample seating, creating a community-centered vibe.

Large size and personal hospitality stand out at this bar. Staff offer bar service, catering, and games, creating a lively sports bar atmosphere.

A variety of cold draft beer and creative cocktails fill the drink menu. The outdoor area features a huge LED TV and plenty of space with very large lawn chairs for enjoying beers while watching sports.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and accommodating."

"The food trucks here have amazing mini tacos and tortas."

"You can grab a beer and watch the games on their 15+ TVs."

Good to know

1

Open mic night is every Wednesday at 9:00 PM.

2

Game day specials are available for Texans fans.

3

Live music and a DJ are featured from Thursday to Saturday nights.

17
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.

Energetic and friendly bartenders create a lively atmosphere. Staff show genuine passion for their work and focus on making customers happy.

Beer stays ice cold and comes across as refreshing. Staff greet quickly and keep drinks chilled.

People are saying

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

"You have to meet Jessica at the bar; she's the best."

"The servers here are so kind and efficient with your beer."

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.

18
Hops & Hounds image 1

Outdoor space combines a large off-leash dog park with shaded seating areas and food trucks. Atmosphere stays welcoming and lively, filled with dogs, live music, and sports on big screens. People come to relax, socialize, and enjoy drinks like margarita flights alongside their pets.

Full bar offers a wide drink selection alongside food trucks for casual bites. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe that suits all visitors.

Outdoor beer garden offers a dog-friendly spot with a solid selection of mostly local craft beers on tap. Options include lighter beers like Ultra and Lonestar for those who prefer milder flavors.

People are saying

"The dog park here is huge and well-maintained."

"The staffed bar on weekends is convenient for ordering drinks."

"I loved the good beer selection here."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music events occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 8pm.

3

The dog park requires downloading an app and purchasing a day pass for $5.

19
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.

Cool bar with air conditioning and a balcony patio overlooking the river walk. Bartenders provide excellent service and the atmosphere has great vibes and music.

Offers a solid selection of local beers alongside craft cocktails and margaritas. Beers come cold and pair well with quesadillas, with typical pricing around $7 each plus gratuity and taxes.

People are saying

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

"The Riverwalk views from up here are awesome."

"You can get great quesadillas and cold beer here."

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.

20
La Honky Tonk image 1

Bar with live music and a pink-themed decor creates a fun atmosphere with plenty of space to move. Music ranges from 80s and 90s rock to interactive live bands, encouraging dancing and socializing. Patio and photo booth add to the welcoming, energetic vibe.

Bars offer a fun atmosphere with a layout that invites dancing and socializing. Staff provide a fast and friendly experience, and live music adds a Nashville-style vibe to the scene.

People are saying

"The live music here creates an awesome, chill vibe."

"I danced my heart out to the great music here."

"The bar's atmosphere is awesome and super chill."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available near the venue.

2

The venue is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for animal lovers.

3

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

21
The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum image 1

Saloon with historic Western decor and extensive taxidermy displays creates a nostalgic, immersive atmosphere. Vintage game room and Texas Rangers memorabilia add unique entertainment and cultural elements. The space feels expansive and lively, blending bar and museum experiences.

Wooden bar from 1881 features a period back bar and hunting trophy decor. Sounds of cowhands and lawmen echo, connecting to American history.

Great selection of Texas beers comes in flights or by the glass. You can carry a beer from the bar while exploring the museum's period back bar and hunting trophy decor.

People are saying

"You'll see lots of interesting history and taxidermy animals here."

"The bar's walls are covered in taxidermy animals and curiosities."

"The beer here is ice cold and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Admission includes access to both the taxidermy and Texas Ranger museums.

2

Daily specials are available, offering unique food options.

3

Guided boot scooting events happen in the main ballroom.

22
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar image 1

Live mariachi bands roam a spacious patio overlooking a market square, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The setting combines nostalgic decor with lively music, drawing a busy crowd that often sings along. Tables offer ample space, supporting a relaxed and engaging dining experience.

Bar offers a top shelf margarita and a sun atmosphere that makes the space enjoyable. Staff at the bar provide great service and help with tequila choices, creating a welcoming vibe.

Cold beer comes in frozen glasses and stays refreshing. Micheladas require self-pouring with provided ingredients like tajin and juice.

People are saying

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

"The bartenders here are super nice and make drinks exactly how you like them."

"I enjoyed the ice cold beer served in a frozen glass."

Good to know

1

Each song requested by the mariachis costs $10.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and snacks.

3

Parking discounts are available with a stamped ticket from the adjacent lot.

23
Waxy's image 1
Irish pub

Building shipped from Ireland creates a classic Irish pub feel with unique decor. Live music plays at a volume that allows conversation, adding to an intimate atmosphere that blends Irish pub tradition with a sports bar vibe. Outdoor seating by the water offers a relaxing spot with views and dog-friendly space.

An old school Irish pub vibe shines through with a down home feel and friendly staff. The bar offers a great selection of beers and spirits, with bartenders who are knowledgeable and welcoming.

A wide range of draft IPAs and other beers sits behind the bar. Ice cold beer is served alongside a solid selection of whiskeys and traditional Irish drinks.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are funny and awesome."

"I found the fish and chips to be amazing and perfectly cooked."

"I liked the good beer selection here."

Good to know

1

Waxy's allows dogs on the patio.

2

Expect a $3.25 fee for credit card payments.

3

Lunch prices are reasonable considering the location.

24
Bentley's Beer Garden image 1

Beer garden offers bar swings and a large dancefloor with a DJ playing Latin and reggaeton music. Atmosphere stays chill and lively, with fans keeping the heat down and security by armed officers. Food trucks outside provide affordable options while fresh, cold beer remains the main drink choice.

Swings at the bar offer a unique seating option that is both comfortable and fun. The bar serves good ales from a microbrewery, creating a relaxed spot to enjoy drinks with friends.

Beers come from a microbrewery and serve fresh, cold ales. The spot suits a relaxed afternoon with games and sports on tap.

People are saying

"The DJ played a broad range of music and kept the crowd dancing."

"You've got to try the swings at the bar; they're so neat."

"The beer here is really fresh and cold."

Good to know

1

Bentley's Beer Garden does not serve food, so plan accordingly.

2

The dress code is casual; no need for fancy attire.

3

Expect long lines for drinks, especially on busy nights.

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