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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown, San Antonio

Dinner spot bars

A bar where you can actually sit down for a full dinner without feeling like you are eating in a hallway.

Based on 788 Opinions
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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.

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

Dinner features attentive service with staff like Alonzo, Lizzy, and Julian checking in frequently. The menu offers amazing dinner and drink options guided by knowledgeable staff like DJ.

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."

"Our server Bash was so attentive, our drinks never went empty."

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
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.

The bar features friendly bartenders like Jasmine and Gina who offer great service and well-made mojitos. The Agave Bar inside hosts company parties and provides a lively atmosphere.

Dinner here features attentive service from staff like Angel and Juan, who handle busy times smoothly. Groups face no wait times, and servers offer honest food suggestions tailored to preferences.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"Jasmine at the bar was amazing and so helpful."

"Monse made my dinner amazing and paid attention to detail."

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.

03
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.

Dinner features attentive service with servers offering helpful recommendations. The French dip stands out as a notably delicious option. The setting suits a nice dinner on the Riverwalk.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are fantastic."

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

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive during dinner."

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.

04
Brenner's on the River Walk image 1

Elegant riverside restaurant offers stunning patio views and a relaxing atmosphere with candlelight and laughter. Live piano music and singing create a cozy, inviting vibe downstairs. The setting combines beautiful scenery with a calm, refined energy away from louder nearby spots.

Cozy and comfortable piano bar creates a pleasant vibe. The first floor features a bar with live music and a beautiful setting, including a gentleman playing music.

Events like weddings and office dinners happen here, showing it suits group gatherings. The dinners offer a consistent quality that fits special occasions and festive meals.

People are saying

"The service here is so pleasant, especially from Ana."

"The dinner here is delicious and the food is amazing."

"The bar staff here are super cool and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy days, especially weekends and holidays.

2

Outdoor seating is available and offers a nice view of the river.

3

Expect wait times during peak hours as the restaurant can get crowded.

05
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.

Sitting at the bar offers a casual spot for dinner. Staff pack up leftovers neatly, so you can take food home without hassle.

People are saying

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

"The Riverwalk views from up here are awesome."

"The service at dinner spots was beautiful, attentive, and friendly."

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.

06
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.

Waterfront location sets a relaxed mood for dinner, whether romantic or casual. Friendly service from staff like Codi makes the meal enjoyable and adds to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The staff here makes dinner spots amazing with their attentive service."

"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.

07
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.

Dinner features a Deluxe Mexican Dinner with steak fajita, cheese enchilada, tamales, crunchy taco, rice, and beans. Service stays attentive throughout the meal.

People are saying

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

"The food at these dinner spots is always delicious and fresh."

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

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.

08
The Palm - San Antonio image 1

Steakhouse combines elegant decor with walls covered in hand-drawn caricatures, creating a unique blend of upscale and casual vibes. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, ideal for intimate dinners or celebrations with attentive service enhancing the experience.

Bar staff stand out with phenomenal service from bartenders like Fransico and Tito. The bar fosters a friendly atmosphere where patrons easily strike up conversations.

Dinner features shrimp cocktail and lobster ravioli among other dishes. Service is pleasant and professional, fitting for family meals and special occasions.

People are saying

"The service for dinner spots was so attentive and professional."

"The steak here is perfectly cooked, tender, and full of flavor."

"The bartenders here are incredibly friendly and professional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect high prices, with wine costing around $33 a glass.

3

Parking downtown can be challenging; consider alternative options.

09
On The Bend Oyster Bar and Cigar Lounge image 1

Two-tier setup includes a lower deck with live jazz and a cigar lounge accessible by stairs. Atmosphere combines elegant vibe with smooth jazz and views of the riverwalk. Frequented by those enjoying cigars alongside music and waterfront seating.

Oldest bar in the area offers distinct customer service. The cigar lounge upstairs pairs well with drinks, and the bar staff like Sloane and Jamal provide attentive service.

Dinner service includes staff like Britney and Vanessa who provide friendly attention and help make meals feel special. Shared dinners run over $100, reflecting a pricier dining experience.

People are saying

"It's a great spot to smoke a cigar by the river."

"The bar staff made me feel so comfortable and taken care of."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu offers discounted prices on select items.

2

Jazz performances occur every Friday and Saturday night.

3

Reservations are recommended for outdoor seating, especially on weekends.

10
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.

Bartenders like Jason, Chuy, and Mike offer great conversation and hilarious service. The bar serves a premium margarita with fresh squeezed lime juice and maintains a clean, lively atmosphere with good music and reasonable prices.

Dinner offers excellent dishes with options like tacos, chips, and salsa for around $12. The menu performs well overall, making it a solid choice for an evening meal.

People are saying

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

"The bartender Marissa was so funny and made a great margarita."

"These dinner spots serve authentic, mouthwatering Mexican dishes."

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.

11
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.

Dinner includes chicken tenders, shrimp, and a grilled chicken sandwich. Staff greet guests warmly at the bar during early and late hours.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are funny and awesome."

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

"The dinner here was delicious, especially the chicken tenders and shrimp."

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.

12
The River's Edge Cafe & Patio Bar image 1

Restaurant offers outdoor patio seating with riverfront views that create a relaxed atmosphere. Fans on the patio provide a gentle breeze, enhancing comfort while dining. The setting includes a playground for kids, making it family-friendly.

Bar offers a brunch bar with a great atmosphere and a bartender named Femmy who makes everyone feel welcomed. Seating includes a spot at the bar and access to a garden terrace above in the Hilton.

Dinner offers a large buffet with Southwestern dishes available. The patio provides a calm setting for group or date night dinners.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and high quality."

"The bar staff are so friendly and attentive."

"The short rib at this dinner spot was profoundly flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Brunch menu is available during specific hours on weekends.

3

Getting a seat on the patio is recommended for a nice view.

13
Agave Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Riverside setting offers beautiful views and shady outdoor seating along the walk. Atmosphere stays relaxing and family friendly with live mariachi music enhancing the vibe. The space combines great decor with a peaceful, inviting environment.

Friendly bartenders serve smoked orange drinks and ice cold margaritas. The bar offers tequila tastings and mezcals with attentive service and sizzling fajitas.

Dinner features attentive service from staff like Tristyn, Randy, Angel, and Julia. The atmosphere supports a personalized dining experience with care and attention to guests.

People are saying

"The food suggestions were great and the service was amazing."

"You should ask for Paul; he's an amazing server at the bar."

"The servers here are so attentive and personable during dinner."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials offer discounted drinks and bar food.

2

Seating is available directly on the riverwalk for a scenic view.

3

Expect high prices for food and drinks, which may not match the quality.

14
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.

Bar staff Tess, Eric, and Roland create a welcoming vibe. Sitting at the bar suits casual drinks or dinner with a margarita.

Dinner here includes options to sit at the bar with a margarita or rent out the space for a convention dinner. Servers like Antoinitte provide attentive service to meet dinner needs.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are tender and juicy."

"Antoinette made my dinner experience so enjoyable and fun."

"The bar staff here makes you feel so welcomed and like a regular."

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.

15
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.

Bar service includes attentive bartenders like Brandon who take good care of guests. Seating at the bar is common, with options to cash out quickly and request small items like a cup of salt.

A beautiful spot for family dinners with attentive service that engages all ages. Staff like Edward and Jenna create a memorable and fun atmosphere during dinner.

People are saying

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

"The staff at these dinner spots really made us laugh!"

"The bartender told us to take our time."

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.

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