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

Bars and lunch spots

A midday break with a drink in hand helps reset the afternoon. It is a slow way to transition through the day.

Based on 838 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.

Attentive service stands out with servers like Bash and Greg checking in often and keeping drinks filled. Lunch moves quickly even during the Saturday rush, making it a smooth spot for midday meals.

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 made our lunch experience great."

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
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.

Lunch specials feature a generous pizza with salad cooked in a brick oven, offering fantastic quality at a great price. Service stays attentive and prompt even during early lunch hours.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials, like pizza and salad, were delicious."

"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.

03
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.

Great service stands out during lunch with servers like Juan, Yaneli, and Paul handling busy times smoothly. The spot suits lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends, offering a memorable experience.

People are saying

"The nice view of the riverwalk was beautiful."

"Our server was awesome and took great care of us."

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

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.

04
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.

Lunch features reasonably priced specials and happy hour drinks from Monday to Friday. The millionaire bacon BLT stands out as a solid choice, with options to enjoy lunch at the bar or on the patio.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are fantastic."

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

"Daniel's drinks were great and made my stay enjoyable."

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.

05
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.

Lunch here offers quick service and good food by the water. Returning for lunch is common due to the consistent quality.

People are saying

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

"Monica made our lunch so pleasant and was a great server."

"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.

06
Boombox Pizza Bar image 1

Retro 80s and 90s theme fills the space with vintage decor and old school TVs playing music videos. Loud, nostalgic music creates an energetic vibe that keeps people moving. A small thrift shop inside and unique pizza toppings add to the distinctive atmosphere.

A welcoming vibe comes from the friendly staff behind the bar who engage well in conversation. The bar offers a cool atmosphere that fits well in the area and invites guests to relax and enjoy.

Lunch arrives in less than 30 minutes, making it a quick option. The atmosphere suits small group lunches well, with food that is both easy and tasty.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The bar staff, Tina and Olivia, were amazing and friendly."

"This Lunch Spot's pizza is packed with flavor and best eaten fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking costs $15 due to limited street parking availability.

3

The restaurant is small, so groups larger than four may have difficulty seating.

07
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.

Counter service handles lunch orders quickly. The setting feels historic and adds character. Food tastes quite good and satisfies well after a visit.

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."

"This lunch spot is a historic place with interesting museum exhibits."

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.

08
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.

Lunch features large portions and flavorful specials. Seafood options include a fish dish paired with a seafood enchilada, rice, and beans.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"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.

09
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.

Lunch features fresh food served quickly, ideal for a break. Options include poblano chile enchiladas and chicken enchiladas for a light meal.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's Mexican dishes are fresh and mouthwatering."

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

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.

10
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.

Lunch offers affordable plates made with high-quality ingredients. Dishes like the Ahi tuna salad and grilled shrimp with horseradish gremolata come in just-right portions and taste fresh.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot has amazing food, especially the steaks cooked to perfection."

"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.

11
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.

Lunch feels like being hosted by friends with personalized service from Kristen, Keith, and Armando. The team goes above and beyond to make meals memorable and special.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are tender and juicy."

"This lunch spot's service felt like being hosted by friends."

"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.

12
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.

Lunch happens with friendly service from attentive staff like Chris and Angel. Seating by the river adds a nice touch to the meal.

People are saying

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

"The service at this lunch spot was so friendly and attentive."

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

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.

13
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.

Lunch offers delicious food with a scenic river view. Service is friendly and memorable, making it a solid choice for a midday meal.

People are saying

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

"The service at this Lunch Spot is friendly and attentive."

"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.

14
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.

Reasonable lunch prices match the exceptional staff service. The spot offers classic dishes like bangers and mash and sits quiet during Sunday lunch hours.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are funny and awesome."

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

"The potato leek soup and curry were fabulous."

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.

15
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.

Extensive buffet options highlight lunch here, featuring Southwestern dishes. Outdoor seating on the patio offers a pleasant spot to eat.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and high quality."

"The bar staff are so friendly and attentive."

"Sitting outside at this lunch spot is wonderful."

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.

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