Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown

Mexican food

Authentic Mexican food that honors the tradition of the cuisine instead of settling for the watered-down versions found in tourist areas.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Lo Cura image 1
Lo Cura image 2
Lo Cura image 3

Bar under a bridge offers river views and cool misting fans. Enjoy Pork Al Pastor walking tacos for just $5 and sip on bold spicy cucumber margaritas. Chic, lively vibes make it perfect for fun and people watching.

Walking tacos stand out with the Pork Al Pastor option filled to the brim for just $5. Drinks like the spicy cucumber margarita and hibiscus margarita offer bold, memorable flavors.

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 Mexican Food here is amazing, 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.

02
Los Weyes de la Asada image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck park offers authentic atmosphere with live mariachi music and a playground for kids. Seating includes benches with umbrellas and river views. Tacos like carne asada and taco mamón are top picks for Mexican food lovers.

Tacos stand out as some of the best ever tasted, especially the carne asada taco and the taco mamón. Tortas and papa chingon also feature prominently as favorites in authentic Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were among the best I ever tasted."

"The Mexican food here has this amazing smoky flavor from the charcoal grill."

"You have to try the homemade tortillas; they're 10/10."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open seven days a week for convenient access.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Prices for street tacos are around $7 each.

03
Texan Sizzle image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small diner offers a cozy vibe with friendly atmosphere and tasty food. Brisket tacos are juicy and filling, while breakfast burritos pack spicy chorizo and jalapeño. Outdoor seating adds charm to this hole-in-the-wall spot.

Brisket tacos come loaded with juicy brisket and fill most people up. Breakfast options include chorizo, egg, and jalapeño burritos plus a bacon and egg taco with thick-cut crispy bacon.

People are saying

"This sandwich was delicious, with tasty and juicy meat."

"I thought the breakfast tacos were the best I'd ever had."

"I had the best breakfast taco I’ve ever had."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available, so visitors will need to walk.

2

The location is small, with only a couple of indoor tables and very limited street parking.

3

The breakfast portions are unexpectedly large.

04
Papos Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open sky and downtown view create a lively vibe with live music and games. Tacos shine with rich birria flavor and generous meat portions. Prices stay low while salsas add extra zest to every bite.

Tacos stand out with rich birria flavor and meat-loaded mini tacos that deliver solid taste. Gorditas and quesadillas also offer well-cooked carne asada and satisfying fillings.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be insanely delicious and authentic."

"These tacos are the perfect late night snack."

"I loved the fresh, hand-made tortillas, they were perfect."

Good to know

1

Papos Tacos is open Thursday to Saturday evenings.

2

Bring cash as credit card acceptance is unclear.

3

No restrooms are available unless you're 21 or older.

05
Tejas Birria- El Camino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers birria tacos with rich broth and unique dishes like birria ramen. Outdoor covered seating creates a casual, inviting space with friendly service. Small playground adds a family-friendly touch making it great for all ages.

Birria tacos come in four big portions with an exceptionally good broth for dipping. The menu includes birria ramen and birria pizza, both praised for their unique and delicious takes on traditional flavors.

People are saying

"The birria here is juicy, cheesy, and absolutely amazing."

"The birria ramen here has such good flavors."

"The birria pizza here is stuffed and double-stacked, totally worth it."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and can be hard to find, especially during busy hours.

2

Prices are on the higher side, but the portion sizes are generous.

3

No alcohol is served at this location, which may be a downside for some.

06
Carnitas Don Raúl image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with industrial design and packed tables creates a lively vibe. Best carnitas in town shine alongside a self-serve salsa bar. Friendly staff serve cold cups for Palomas and mezcaladas, making it a top spot for Mexican food lovers.

Carnitas stand out as the most notable dish here, often described as the best ever tasted in the area. The torta also receives strong praise alongside consistently excellent Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I've ever had."

"These carnitas tacos are juicy, flavorful, and tender."

"These carnitas are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Don Raúl closes at 5 PM.

2

Expect long lines on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant now has a dining area with air conditioning.

07
El Weinecero - Downtown Location image 1

Hot dog stand serves spicy Mexican toppings like salsa verde and avocado crema on soft buttery buns. Enjoy live soft music and a lively downtown vibe with dog-friendly staff. Popular picks include Perro Chiludo and elote in a cup, perfect with refreshing agua fresca.

Hotdogs come with salsa verde and avocado crema that stand out. The Perro Chiludo and elote in a cup are popular choices, often paired with an agua fresca for spice lovers.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and freshly made."

"These Mexican hotdogs are amazing for a late night spot."

"I've never had a Mexican hotdog as good as the Perro y Gallo."

Good to know

1

El Weinecero is open Thursday to Saturday from 9 pm to 3 am.

2

The menu features four hot dog options and a cup of corn.

3

Great late-night option for quick bites after bar hopping.

08
La Vida Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop in a historic 1912 building offers a chill vibe with Latin music and games like chess. Street tacos, especially chorizo, shine with fresh salsa and guacamole. Late weekend terrace service adds a cozy touch.

Street tacos stand out with excellent flavors, especially the chorizo tacos. Freshly made salsa and guacamole complement the tacos, which are served late on weekends on the terrace.

People are saying

"The owner Victor is a pleasure to chat with about his travels."

"The cafe's coffee and pastries were excellent."

"The street tacos here are amazing and excellent."

Good to know

1

La Vida Coffee stays open late on Saturdays, perfect for night owls.

2

The café serves exquisite tacos on the terrace during weekends.

3

They do not accept cash payments; credit cards only.

09
Cavalier image 1
Food and drink

Elegant dining with live jazz music sets a warm, inviting mood. Mexican dishes shine with green chile carnitas and cheese-stuffed chile poblano in huevos rancheros. Beautiful artwork and attentive service make it perfect for brunch or fine dining.

Carnitas feature a great green chile flavor without heat. Huevos rancheros come in generous portions with impressive presentation, including a version with half an avocado and cheese-stuffed chile poblano.

People are saying

"The dinner here was spectacular and delicious."

"The brunch here, especially the huevos rancheros and pecan waffle, is amazing."

"The Mexican food's huevos rancheros presentation and portions blew my mind."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times for breakfast, sometimes up to an hour.

2

Valet parking is free, but can be inconvenient with long waits.

3

The restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible with level surfaces inside.

10
River North Icehouse image 1

Large warehouse buzzes with live music and community vibe. Mini tacos and carne asada shine with bold flavors. Outdoor patio offers food trucks and lawn games for fun.

Mini tacos and Mexican torta stand out with bold flavors. Carne asada is tender and juicy, and burritos offer a delicious option. Free salsa comes in generous portions.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and accommodating."

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

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the mini tacos."

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.

11
El Jefe Baja Style image 1
Mexican restaurant

Brightly lit space with a beautiful outdoor area creates a clean, inviting vibe. Enjoy fresh fish tacos and authentic Baja style Mexican dishes like ceviche and shrimp cocktails. Casual bar setting adds a lively, relaxed atmosphere perfect for seafood lovers.

Fish and shrimp tacos come super fresh and Baja Style authentic with perfect corn tortillas. Ceviche and shrimp cocktail also deliver a fresh, flavorful taste of west coast seafood Mexican food.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are super fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the fish tacos were super fresh and delicious."

"The ceviche here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located inside Porta Rosa Bar.

2

Avocado slices may incur an extra charge.

3

Expect a variety of Baja-style dishes on the menu.

12
kapej image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop offers homemade corn tortillas in tacos and a Tres Leches latte for Mexican food lovers. Art lovers enjoy unique local art displayed indoors and outdoors. Quiet work or study thrives with fast Wi-Fi and a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by plants.

Homemade corn tortillas make the tacos stand out, especially the black bean and Oaxaca cheese ones. Breakfast tacos and the Torta Chicken offer solid options, paired well with the Tres Leches latte.

People are saying

"I tried the tres leches coffee and it was very good."

"It's a cozy, relaxing escape from the busy city."

"The breakfast tacos here are phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building for customers.

2

They have free parking in their lot.

3

The shop is located right across from the dog park and is pup-friendly.

13
Rio Plaza image 1
Event venue

Event venue offers panoramic views of downtown and Riverwalk with steak fajitas that are incredible. Atmosphere balances lively music with a quiet cocktail area featuring the princess peach margarita. Air conditioning is strong and security is visible.

Steak fajitas stand out as incredible and amazing. Shrimp tacos come across as pretty good. The princess peach margarita pairs well with the meal.

People are saying

"The food here was excellent and amazing."

"The Mexican food, especially the fajitas, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Rio Plaza is an all-inclusive venue located in downtown.

2

Expect higher costs due to the central downtown location.

3

The venue is known for its excellent kitchen facilities.

14
Otro Bar image 1
Food and drink

Rooftop bar offers riverwalk views and a lively vibe with a live DJ. Mexican dishes like tacos and chicken torta pack bold flavors. Drinks shine with a spiced cucumber margarita and fresh agua frescas, making it great for food and fun.

Tacos and chicken torta stand out with strong flavors. Drinks include a spiced cucumber margarita and refreshing honeydew and cantaloupe agua frescas. The halibut ceviche and tortilla chips add a tasty touch.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and so nice."

"I loved the outdoor seating with a nice view of the Riverwalk."

"The Mexican Food here is fantastic, and the service is so welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour events can be hosted for groups of up to 20 people.

2

The front area is available for private happy hour rentals.

3

DJ performances occur regularly, featuring a mix of old and new hits.

15
Cafe Alameda image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot shines with house-made tortillas and authentic Latinx decor. Breakfast tacos and huevos rancheros deliver generous portions and bold flavors. Quiet, welcoming vibe makes it perfect for a genuine Mexican meal.

Breakfast tacos stand out with house-made tortillas and homemade serrano salsa. Chicken tortilla soup and huevos rancheros offer authentic flavors with generous portions.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas here are amazing and taste like Grandma's."

"The homemade salsa has a spicy kick."

"The breakfast tacos here are amazing, especially with the warm tortillas."

Good to know

1

No alcohol is served at Cafe Alameda.

2

The restaurant only serves breakfast and lunch.

3

They offer daily lunch plates and provide the option to ask for your beverage in a cup to go.

16
El Nogal Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned spot serves homemade corn tortillas and authentic tacos with spicy salsa. Enjoy hearty breakfast tacos in a quiet, unpretentious setting. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great choice for fresh, flavorful Mexican food.

Breakfast tacos come loaded and hot with flavorful guisada and spicy salsa. Homemade and pressed corn tortillas shine in tacos and enchiladas, which taste authentic and fresh.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is fresh and amazing."

"I loved their delicious, fresh, homemade corn tortillas."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a family-owned local business.

2

The prices are affordable with generous portions.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with no frills.

17
505 RoofTop Bar image 1

Rooftop bar boasts stunning city views and a classy black and white decor. Enjoy free chips and salsa with standout street tacos cooked on a flat top. Music is lively and controlled by patrons, creating a relaxing yet energetic atmosphere near downtown.

Free chips and salsa come with the bar. Tacos cooked on the flat top stand out, especially the street tacos when available.

People are saying

"The rooftop vibe is great with awesome music and energy."

"The drinks at this bar are top-notch and delicious."

"The Mexican food here has a churro martini that's highly recommended."

Good to know

1

The bar is located in the heart of downtown, close to other activities.

2

There is no food available at the 505 RoofTop Bar.

3

The rooftop offers stunning views of the city.

18
Oasis Cafe image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Older, modest building offers a calm, family-friendly vibe where locals gather. Enjoy homemade tortillas and authentic Tex-Mex flavors with vegetarian-friendly options. Smaller portions and super reasonable prices make it a standout spot downtown.

Homemade tortillas come fresh daily with crispy textures and fresh meat. Breakfast tacos shine with chorizo and huevo or bacon and egg, while huevos rancheros feature a chunky, spicy salsa.

People are saying

"You have to try their breakfast tacos; the tortillas are amazing."

"The food and service at this lunch spot were exceptional."

"You have to try the puffy taco; it's awesome Mexican food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers great prices for the quality of delicious food and service.

2

Their beans do not contain lard, making the restaurant veggie friendly.

3

They charge $0.50 for to-go plates and cups.

19
Olla express cafe image 1

Cozy casita offers a dog friendly vibe with unique interior design and local art. Enjoy tamales wrapped in banana leaf and standout drinks like horchata cold brew. Indoor and outdoor seating make it perfect for relaxing or focusing.

Tamales wrapped in traditional banana leaf offer a homemade taste. Drinks include a horchata cold brew and a mole chocolate latte that stand out for their unique flavors.

People are saying

"I've never tasted so many amazing flavors in one coffee."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, welcoming vibe."

"You have to try their horchata cold brew; it's an absolute must-try."

Good to know

1

Parking is across the street from the cafe.

2

They are vegan friendly and offer vegan tacos on Sundays.

3

Olla Express Café allows dogs inside.

20
El Castillo Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small storefront with authentic Mexican decor offers a cozy, welcoming vibe. Large, affordable breakfast tacos and dishes like barbacoa shine. Mexican music adds to the relaxed, homey feel perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Breakfast tacos come in large sizes with affordable prices around $2.15 each. The menu features authentic Mexican dishes like Huevos Rancheros, barbacoa, and Birria tacos made with handmade tortillas.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful breakfast tacos and fresh ingredients."

"You have to try the puffy tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

"I found the food to be original, authentic, and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for food during busy hours.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is located near the touristy Riverwalk area.

21
Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk image 1

Rooms offer quiet balconies with riverwalk views and soaring ceilings inside. Enjoy Green Chile Enchiladas and fresh guacamole at the lively bar and restaurant. The setting blends modern upscale style with a tasteful, vibrant atmosphere.

Tex-Mex dishes shine with Green Chile and Chicken Enchiladas standing out. The menu also features flavorful chicken tinga, halibut ceviche, and fresh guacamole, complemented by well-made margaritas.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"The room's floor-to-ceiling windows offer a nice view of the River Walk and skyline."

"The modern rooms have concrete floors and sliding barn doors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour at the bar runs from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks.

3

The hotel has limited parking options; consider alternative transportation.

22
Hotel Gibbs Downtown San Antonio Riverwalk image 1

Historic building offers classic style and spacious rooms with Alamo views. Breakfast includes a taco bar with carne guisada and tortillas plus Texas-shaped waffles. Enjoy a quiet, cozy atmosphere with free breakfast and valet parking.

Breakfast features a taco bar with carne guisada and tortillas. The spread includes biscuits and gravy, Texas-shaped waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, and a coffee station.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The rooms felt lofty and were really comfortable."

"The Mexican food here is amazing, right by the Alamo."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a free wine tasting event on weekends.

2

Happy hour details are available at reception; check for timings.

3

Parking costs $50 per day, which is an additional expense.

23
Rita's on the River image 1

Enjoy fresh guacamole and authentic tacos with rich refried beans in a lively spot by the Riverwalk. Top-notch margaritas complement the hectic, fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Great views and bold flavors make it a must-visit.

Fresh guacamole stands out with a vibrant, authentic taste. Refried beans carry a traditional Mexican style, rich and hearty. Tacos and queso also deliver strong, memorable flavors.

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 Mexican food here is on point, especially the stuffed Poblano."

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.

24
Commonwealth Coffeehouse & Bakery Jones image 1

Bright two-level coffee shop features exposed brick and a pet-friendly patio perfect for work or casual hangouts. Breakfast tacos with fresh tortillas offer a flavorful Mexican start. Free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets support a quiet, welcoming vibe.

Breakfast tacos stand out with fresh tortillas and great flavor, especially the chorizo and egg variety. They offer a tasty, light option often paired with matcha.

People are saying

"The coffee here is great and the lattes are the best I've ever had."

"The outdoor seating has a calm, productive energy."

"The breakfast tacos here are delicious and great for a quick bite."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight but there is a parking lot $10 per day down the block.

2

The patio is pet friendly.

3

Expect limited gluten-free options; no gluten-free pastries or bread available.

25
El Tigre Coffee Roasters image 1

Open layout with brick walls and artwork creates a cozy vibe. Breakfast tacos with bacon, egg, and cheese shine for Mexican food lovers. Outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi make it perfect for studying or casual meetups.

Breakfast tacos stand out with bacon, egg, and cheese combinations. Barbacoa tacos deliver a solid, on point flavor for lunch.

People are saying

"I found the coffee to be delicious and perfectly made."

"This cafe has such a cool, modern vibe."

"The breakfast tacos here are off the chart."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Sunset Station across the street.

2

If you ask the barista, you can get an extra hour of free parking.

3

The baked goods are from a local bakery offering vegan and non-vegan options.

26
Hotel Indigo San Antonio-Riverwalk by IHG image 1

Rooms feature riverwalk balconies with stunning views. Enjoy street tacos and the flavorful Indigo burrito for Mexican food. Relax by the outdoor pool in a quiet, serene atmosphere with a cozy bar and attentive service.

Street tacos and the Indigo burrito stand out for their flavor. Breakfast includes huevos rancheros and chilaquiles, both well prepared.

People are saying

"The hotel staff made check-in easy and were super helpful."

"The river view from the balcony is spectacular."

"Veronica made my Mexican food experience so easy and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Parking is available only via valet at $49 per night.

2

The hotel hosts events like painting pots in the lobby.

3

Expect high prices for breakfast and dinner at the hotel restaurant.

27
Bonham Exchange image 1
Night club

Historic building with multiple dance floors offers a lively spot for dancing and socializing. Outdoor patio serves fresh tacos alongside great drinks, creating a relaxed vibe. Friendly crowd and spacious layout make it welcoming for all.

Tacos get cooked fresh outside at a taqueria on the patio. The outdoor area pairs great drinks with tasty tacos for a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are great and make you feel like a regular."

"I found the club to be a fun, inviting, judgment-free zone."

"I had great tacos on the outdoor patio."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Wednesday, starting around 10pm.

2

The drag show typically starts around 11pm but may be delayed.

3

Minors can enter but are marked to prevent alcohol purchase.

28
Poblanos Mexican Restaurant and Catering image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic tacos with tender fillings and fresh green salsa. Retro decor creates a cozy atmosphere with live country western music. Service is warm and attentive, making it great for breakfast or lunch with well-crafted margaritas.

Tacos stand out with authentic flavors and tender fillings like barbacoa and carne guisada. Breakfast tacos come in perfect portions, and the green salsa on enchiladas adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

People are saying

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

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

"These breakfast tacos are a great start to the day."

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.

29
DinoRito image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue spot serves tender smoked meats and head-sized burritos filled with creamy mac and cheese. Spicy salsa and crispy cheese add bold Mexican flavors. Family-friendly vibe shines with a kids' play area and lively music downtown.

Burritos come packed with flavor and are often head-sized with creamy mac and cheese inside. The salsa is spicy and tasty, and the crispy cheese on the tortilla adds great texture.

People are saying

"The Dinorito burrito is huge and easily fed two people."

"The mac and cheese in this burrito is so creamy and rich."

"This Mexican food is huge, easily feeding two people."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $87 for two people without drinks.

2

Many food items are large and shareable, perfect for groups.

3

Bring your own drinks as they may not be available.

Discover more

Downtown, San Antonio

Area guide
Loading Map...