Restaurants in San Antonio! Over the past 15 years, San Antonio has transformed into a food powerhouse, going from a decent food city to a top-tier culinary destination. In 2017, it even snagged the prestigious UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy Award.
The city’s diverse blend of cultures and flavors, daring chefs, and a population that absolutely loves to eat have created the perfect environment for a thriving food culture. Now, San Antonio proudly boasts globally recognized chefs and award-winning restaurants in San Antonio. With the constant influx of new eateries, the culinary scene is on a continual rise.
Keeping up with the latest food trends can be a bit difficult, with new places popping up all the time. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best new restaurants in San Antonio. Each spot is either brand new or opened within the last 18 months, and they’re all definitely worth a try.
Expect this list to stay fresh, as we’ll be updating it regularly. Come back often for the latest restaurant ideas and recommendations.
Paladar Fusion Mexico Cuba
Paladar’s menu has a bit of everything. It’s sorted into sections like starters, Cuban dishes, Mexican dishes, combo creations, and the usual stuff like sides, drinks, sweets, and kid-friendly bites. If you’re into classic Mexican foods like enchiladas and tacos, they’ve got you covered. And for those craving Cuban goodness, they’re serving up sautéed shrimp and slow-cooked pork.
When we checked out Paladar, we tried the Cuban ceviche and the Sandwich Paladar, a yummy mashup of Cuban and Mexican flavors with marinated piglet and Oaxaca cheese. Both were amazing. The ceviche, made fresh just for you, was bursting with freshness. The zesty citrus taste teamed up perfectly with the red snapper and avocado. And the sandwich? A taste masterpiece with perfectly mixed flavors and tasty yucca chips on the side.
Paladar might shake things up compared to the usual restaurants in San Antonio flavors, but trust me, it’s a fantastic addition to the food scene. I totally suggest swinging by and trying something new. It might seem like a wild move, but if the rest of Paladar’s dishes are as awesome as what we tried, it’s a sure win.
You’ll find Paladar right across from the Witte Museum’s parking garage. You can get to the parking lot from Broadway, but it’s easier to spot the restaurant from Avenue B or the parking garage. Go on, treat those taste buds!
SA Yacht Club
Beer, grub, and shopping. The essentials, right? Well, now you can snag them all at San Antonio’s brand-new and super quirky shopping hub, the SA Yacht Club.
Just a short hop, skip, and jump west of the Pearl Brewery, the SA Yacht Club is where you can soak in the unique vibe of Restaurants in San Antonio. It’s a bit of an oddball spot. Picture buildings made from recycled shipping containers, and oh, there’s a flashy orange VW Beetle parked out front – that’s their sign.
Now, the location is a bit all over the place. On one side of the street, you’ve got shiny new buildings and designer homes. But on the other side, there are some pretty old (okay, falling apart) houses and structures.
And let’s talk about the businesses at the Yacht Club. It’s a mix that might puzzle you at first – tacos, coffee, Filipino bites, leather goods, and even vacation rentals. But here’s the thing, at the SA Yacht Club, being a bit offbeat is their charm, and strange is more than okay.
Read More: Kid-Friendly Restaurants In San Antonio : Good Food Points
San Antonio’s taco hotspots
If you’re here for the food, you’re in for a treat. One of San Antonio’s taco hotspots, Naco 210, recently moved from Los Patios (we’re a bit sad about that too – that place was gorgeous!) to set up shop at the Yacht Club. They’ve got a new name now – Naco Grayson. The menu’s the same, and those tacos are as delicious as ever. And don’t worry, if you miss the Los Patios spot, catch their taco truck at 410 and Nacogdoches – still an awesome taco fix.
More food choices include restaurants in San Antonio the awesome Filipino food truck, Jeepney Street Eats, serving up lumpia, pancit, and sisig. There’s also Drippy’s and Sippy’s, your go-to spots for coffee and drinks. The SA Yacht Club goes all out with Bexar Goods Co., a leather maker with a cool airstream shop, and Airbnb rentals on the upper level.
With its laid-back vibe and tasty food, the SA Yacht Club is a great spot for a chill lunch or evening hangout. But here’s the heads up – parking can be a bit tricky. Your best bet is street parking, and since it’s a mix of homes and businesses, it’s good to be considerate and ready for a short stroll.
Idle Beer Hall and Brewery
Getting pumped for the new food hall at the historic Cavender Cadillac building? Well, Idle Beer Hall and Brewery has got your back! They’ve just swung open the doors to their rad indoor/outdoor spot next door in San Antonio’s River North area, setting the vibe for the future Make Ready Market.
Picture this: Idle’s got a whopping 15,000 sq ft of space, giving you all the room to kick back, sip a drink with pals, or soak up some sun on the outdoor patio.
Step inside, and you’ll be warmly greeted by Everest, the super-friendly brewery dog. He’s on a mission for pets, making the open-concept beer hall feel like home. With high ceilings and steel beams, it’s got an industrial vibe without feeling chilly. There are plenty of seating choices, from couches to tables, plus a ski ball and a pool table for some extra fun. Outdoors, there are picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, and even a ping-pong table.
Idle serves up a solid lineup of craft beers brewed on-site, with options that change based on what’s brewing. They’ve got a few canned choices and house cocktails for those not into beer. Here’s a tip: hit up Idle’s happy hour daily from 12 pm to 6 pm for a half-pour of any draft beer at the pint-sized price of just $3. While they don’t do flights, you can grab four half-pours during happy hour for $12, giving you a good taste of their offerings.
Now, parking is the one hiccup at Idle. It might get trickier when the Make Ready Market opens and the crowds roll in. Public parking at Avenue B and 8th Street is an option, but Avenue B is now a one-way street with minimal parking. If you can swing it, plan your visit on a weekday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. You’ll likely find street parking (use the SA Park app) across from CPS headquarters. Cheers to good times at Idle!
Nineteen Hyaku
Busy bee restaurateurs, Houston and Emily Carpenter, have nailed it again with their fifth San Antonio restaurant, and it’s a real showstopper! Nineteen Hyaku is now open for business, nestled just east of the Pearl Historic district. You can practically smell the deliciousness only a block away from their other hit spot, Restaurant Claudine.
This fab joint, which officially opened its doors on September 27, is like a breath of fresh air. Picture this: a stunning indoor space with high ceilings, wicker touches, and a sleek white marble sushi bar that stretches across the entire place. The decor? Oh, it’s got pops of yellow, cool Chinese lantern-style lighting, and a super swanky full-service bar with a modern light fixture that’s hard to ignore. Seriously, this place is a total eye-catcher.
Let’s talk about the star of the show menu. Nineteen Hyaku is all about Japanese-inspired cuisine, but not your average sushi joint. No way. They’ve got a refined twist that takes traditional Japanese flavors to a whole new level. The menu’s got it all: rolled sushi, hand rolls, shareable plates (hot and cold), nigiri, and fire-roasted skewers. Warning: The menu is so good, it’ll leave you wanting to try everything.
Start your taste adventure with the restaurants in San Antonio Ebi Toreado roll shrimp tempura, cucumber, avocado, and green grapes. Feeling fancy? The Restaurants in San Antonio wagyu gyoza with squid ink and ponzu is a must. And don’t even get me started on those Restaurants in San Antonio mushroom skewers – spectacularly delicious!
For real food enthusiasts, Nineteen Hyaku offers an omakase experience for $150 per guest. Trust your chef to whip up a feast that’ll blow your taste buds away. Spoiler alert: there’s not much; these guys don’t do well.
Protip time: There’s plenty of parking around Nineteen Hyaku at the Pearl, but I’ve got the inside scoop. Park at the Oxbow Parking Garage in the Credit Human building. Three hours for just $5, and it’s a mere one-minute stroll to the restaurant’s entrance. Happy dining!
Pink Cappuccino
Guess what brings coffee, the color pink, Instagram, and a Mexican adventure together? If you’re thinking of Stone Oak’s freshest coffee spot, Pink Cappuccino, you hit the bullseye. This delightful café bloomed on Valentine’s Day in February 2023 and has been a social media sensation ever since.
Meet the brains behind Pink – Roxana Jimenez. She’s got a story as vibrant as her coffee shop. After surviving a Mexico kidnapping, she landed in the U.S. and decided to channel her energy into something empowering for women (enter coffee, the obvious choice for empowerment). So, she snagged a spot just off 1604 and Stone Oak, decked it out in all shades of pretty and pink, and welcomed guests hungry for both yummy treats and Instagram-worthy moments.
And, oh boy, does Pink deliver on the options? Every wall is an Instagrammer’s paradise. Think pink flower walls, walls plastered with restaurants in San Antonio Valentine’s candy heart stickers, and cute neon signs all around. Flowers, chandeliers, and chic black leather furniture complete the picture-perfect vibe.
But let’s talk about the food – it’s as fun as the shop itself. Sure, you can get your regular coffee fix, but Pink’s specialty drinks steal the spotlight. And, you guessed it, many of them are fabulously pink. We dived into the Unicorn White, the Pink Matcha, the Pink Glam Iced Latte, and the Venetian Hot Chocolate (for the non-coffee crew) – all delicious and fun. Don’t miss out on the crepes and bubble waffles, absolute sweetness and decadence that pair perfectly with your next social media post. Capture the moment at Pink Cappuccino!
Beacon Hill Market and Deli
Welcome to Beacon Hill Market and Deli! They swung open their doors in February 2023 at the cute Blanco Center shopping spot in Beacon Hill (just a hop from one of San Antonio’s best coffee spots, Bright Coffee). Though not fancy, this east coast-style deli is making waves in SA with fantastic sandwiches and soups, landing them on many lists for the best new restaurant in San Antonio. After checking it out, we can say the praise is well deserved.
BHMD is a bit different from other San Antonio delis. It’s open only four days a week, Thursday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., or until they sell out – and they sell out fast! So, it’s smart to get there early to avoid missing out on some of the best sandwiches in town.
People love the Italian hoagie, pastrami reuben, and cheesesteak at BHMD restaurants in San Antonio. We tried the hot pastrami sandwich and absolutely loved the fresh rye bread, hot pastrami, gooey cheese, and zesty mustard. Big flavors from a small counter.
Beacon Hill Market and Deli may be in San Antonio, but it can compete with any New York deli, any day of the week.
Parking at BHMD is a bit limited, with a few spots along the front of the shopping complex. Depending on availability, be prepared to circle or find side street parking along Elsmere or Fulton. While there’s no indoor seating, a few outdoor picnic tables are there for guests to enjoy.
Our suggestion: grab your sandwich to go or head to Bright Coffee, order a creamy iced banana milk latte, and savor your sandwich with a side of caffeine.
Blush Cocktails and Eats
Brace yourselves, Southtown, because the best meal of the day, brunch, just found a new home! Blush Cocktails and Eats opened up shop in March 2023, taking over the space that used to be Jokesters 22 comedy club. Now, it’s all about charming vibes, with floral wallpaper, dark green walls, and original hardwood floors creating a super-cute aesthetic. Oh, and did I mention there’s a bakery with scratch-made pastries and an outdoor dining patio? Blush is the full package for brunching in SA.
The dynamic duo behind the magic is partners, Efren Moreno and Tanya Benavides. They wanted to bring something completely unique to the Alamo City with Blush, so they whipped up a menu that combines flavors from Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, sprinkled with a bit of caviar and a dash of truffle. The result? was – mouthwatering food in a captivating setting.
Blush’s menu is a brunch and lunch lover’s dream, with a side of cocktails, wines, and beers if you’re feeling a bit boozy. For a taste of their culinary prowess, we went for both savory and sweet: the King Williams Benedict and the Crème Brulee French Toast.
The Benedict shook things up by swapping the usual ham for sous vide short ribs and the English muffin for toasted focaccia. Topped with hollandaise and a tangy kick from infused vinegar, this Benedict was a game-changer. The French toast was equally exceptional, featuring crème Anglaise-stuffed brioche, fresh berries, brown-butter crumble, and wild honey. It was like biting into perfectly caramelized, pillowy-eggy French toast coated in crème brulee.
With its winning combo of atmosphere, design, food, and service, Blush is a standout in the food-forward Southtown area, easily earning its spot as one of the best new restaurants in San Antonio.
Read More: Where to Eat at the Pearl Brewery
Leche de Tigre
Welcome to the newest sensation in Southtown, Leche de Tigre! It’s not just a place; it’s a Peruvian cebicheria (not to be confused with a cevicheria in Peru!) and pisco restaurant. Picture this: an old 1,400 sq ft. home transformed into a trendy, fully developed restaurant with a cool cocktail bar and outdoor patio.
The star of the show, the restaurant’s namesake, “tiger’s milk,” is a spicy, citrus marinade used to cure fish in Peru. It’s the magic touch in the cebiches and tiraditos (Peruvian raw fish dishes) on the menu. From classic cebiche to Nikkei cebiche (Japanese-influenced) to the unique Amazonico cebiche with striped bass and plantains, all showcase the delightfully tangy flavor of leche de tigre. You might find yourself tempted to sip it right from the serving bowls.
Craving something heartier? Leche de Tigre has you covered with Peruvian Fuertes, protein-packed dishes. Highlights include the smoky Lomo Saltado, fried rice and Chinese sausage Chaufa, and the Pulpo Anticuchero with grilled octopus.
No trip to Leche de Tigre is complete without a visit to the cocktail bar for a taste of Peru’s national spirit, Pisco. This grape brandy has been distilled in Peru since the 1500s, offering a milder version of tequila. Try the classic Pisco Sour, a creamy blend of pisco, lime, and egg whites, or venture into the cocktail realm with the Chilcano, a mix of pisco, ginger ale, and bitters.
Teetotalers, fear not! The non-alcoholic Chicha Morada is a Peruvian delight, blending sweet and spicy flavors in a beautiful bright purple hue from dried Peruvian purple corn.
Given its quasi-residential spot near Dos Sirenos Brewing, parking at restaurants in San Antonio Leche de Tigre is a challenge. Most guests park along Cevallos Street or side streets, especially on busy Friday and Saturday nights. Plan for a little walk if you’re heading over during peak times. Enjoy the culinary journey at Leche de Tigre!
Go Fish Market
In January 2023, Houston and Emily Carpenter, the brains behind Go Fish Market in San Antonio, proudly swung open the doors to their fourth seafood haven. Brace yourself because here’s the kicker – whispers are already swirling about a fifth spot, and rumor has it, a sixth might be in the cards too! Now, that’s some seriously tasty news, right?
This joint isn’t your run-of-the-mill fancy-pants restaurants in San Antonio. Oh no, it’s a no-fuss seafood market and cafe, tucked away a few blocks from the Pearl Historic District. But hold up – don’t let the low-key vibes fool you. The grub here is nothing short of spectacular.
At Go Fish Market, they’re all about the creme de la crème of seafood. Strut in, hit up the seafood counter, and you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about. From caviar and oysters to mind-blowing sashimi and the most divine fish and chips in town, they’ve got it all.
Now, let’s talk about the must-haves. Kick off your feast with the jumbo shrimp cocktail – we’re talking seriously big, perfectly chilled, and that cocktail sauce? It’s tangy perfection. Now, brace your taste buds for the hiramasa pastrami on sourdough. Picture this: an open-face amberjack sashimi sandwich with pimento mayo and fish roe, all piled high on fresh sourdough bread. Talk about a flavor explosion!
But wait, there’s more – Go Fish Market isn’t just about the seafood. They’ve got a wine bar that’s basically a grape-lover’s dream. With over 60 wines on offer, you can pair your meal with the perfect Restaurants in San Antonio vino.
So, whether you’re down for a quick king fish burger lunch or a swanky evening affair with wine and oysters on the half shell, Go Fish Market is your go-to. And get ready, because they’re making waves in a city that’s not exactly known for its coastline. Now, who’s hungry?
Up Scale
Meet the culinary power couple, Houston and Emily Carpenter, the masterminds behind the newest gem in Southtown’s dining scene – Up Scale. These two have already left their mark on the Alamo city with hits like Little Em’s Oyster Bar, Restaurant Claudine, the fresh-faced Go Fish Market, and the eagerly anticipated Nineteen Hyaku.
Now, let’s dive into the world of Up Scale. As the name suggests, it’s all about sophistication. Picture this: blush pink velvet booths, chic barstools, and modern tiered chandeliers, giving you a taste of understated elegance. They took over the space once owned by the quirky Feast in 2019 and gave it a makeover, waving goodbye to the funky touches and ushering in a new era of style.
“But it’s not just about looks – it’s about the eats, and boy, does Up Scale deliver. They’ve got a secret weapon – restaurants in San Antonio. And when we say everywhere, we mean everywhere. It’s not just on your main course; it’s even hanging out in the desserts. Yep, you heard it right – Caviar Cheesecake is a thing.
Let’s talk about some menu stars at Up Scale. Start your journey with the luscious Deviled Eggs – they’ve got white truffle oil, caviar, and gold leaf, taking these classics to a whole new level. Craving something tangy? The Nigiri is a winner. And for those creamy pasta lovers, the lobster tagliolini is a must, crowned with—you guessed it—caviar.
Now, let’s sweeten the deal. Wrap up your meal with the showstopper – the flourless chocolate cake. Trust me, it might just steal the spotlight. So, if you’re ready for an upscale experience with a dash of culinary genius, Up Scale is where you want to be.
Restaurant Claudine
First things first, let’s talk vibes. Imagine an upscale southern retreat with a French twist, housed in the cutest bungalow ever. The Restaurants in San Antonio decor is on point, and the whole setup is just adorable. And guess what? The Restaurants in San Antonio food is as perfect as the setting.
Now, onto the grub. Get ready for your taste buds to do a happy dance because Restaurant Claudine takes southern classics and turns them into masterpieces. Take the cornbread, for instance. It’s not just cornbread; it’s cornbread served with smoked wallflower butter—yeah, the kind with real edible flowers on top. Trust me, it’s so Instagram-worthy; you’ll want a pic before taking a bite.
Moving on to the main course – we’re talking about reasonably priced plates in the $20ish range. Try the sweet and spicy fried chicken with fermented honey, hot honey, and pommes puree. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite. And if you’re up for a taste of the South, the gumbo is where it’s at. Packed with andouille, shrimp, chicken, and okra, it’s a downright delicious experience.
Restaurant Claudine isn’t just about the food; it’s about the perfect setting for different occasions. Whether it’s a romantic date night, a cute lunch date, a dinner with your besties, or soaking up the sun on a beautiful San Antonio autumn/spring day, this place has got you covered. So, when the craving for elevated southern comfort food strikes, you know where to go!
Carriqui
Guess what’s causing a buzz at the Pearl Brewery? It’s none other than Carriqui (pronounced KHER-ih-key), named after the local Green Jaybird. This hotspot, eagerly awaited, spread its wings and took flight in September 2022. Nestled in a charming old saloon dating back to 1890, which once housed the iconic Liberty Bar from 1985 to 2008, Carriqui has undergone a meticulous makeover, restoring the building to its former glory – sans the signature tilt of its predecessor.
Now, let’s talk about what makes this place a must-visit. It’s not just the historic vibes; it’s the impeccable service and mouthwatering eats that steal the show. The menu takes inspiration from the flight path of the Carriqui bird, starting in south Texas and cruising down the east coast of Mexico into the Yucatán. This culinary journey offers everything from BBQ and nachos to ceviche and achiote grilled chicken.
Feeling a bit indecisive? No worries. Dive into one of their restaurants in San Antonio botana platters, a spread of appetizers and entrees from the main menu. Why settle for one dish when you can savor 7 or 8 delightful flavors?
Now, let’s tackle the logistics. Parking is a breeze, just like the cool breeze blowing through the Pearl. Take your pick – there’s street parking with meters close by, or head to the Pearl garage, a mere 5-minute stroll away (and the first two hours are on the house!). If you prefer surface parking, you’re covered with options in front of La Gloria or underneath 281.
So, if you’re ready for a culinary adventure, make your way to Carriquia. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through flavors in a place that’s steeped in history and charm.
Full Goods Diner
Guess what hit the brunch scene in September 2022? Drumroll, please! It’s the fabulous Full Goods Diner at the Pearl Brewery, brought to you by the brains behind Austin’s beloved brunch spot, Paperboy. They’ve set up shop in the spot that used to be home to Green Vegetarian Cuisine, ready to add a dash of relaxation, friendly vibes, and downright good food to the Pearl’s atmosphere.
Let’s dive into the goodness that is the menu. Picture this: breakfast, brunch, lunch, and cocktails galore, all with a fusion of Mexican and US flavors. Every dish is a work of art, made from scratch in-house, using the freshest seasonal and local ingredients. Now, let’s talk pastries – they’re the real deal here. Imagine sinking your teeth into delights like pan de elote, a Mexican hot chocolate muffin, or a cardamom knot. And for a shareable, sweet experience, the peaches and cream pop tart is a must-try.
If you’re steering clear of the sugar rush, fear not. There’s something restaurants in San Antonio savory and scrumptious awaiting you – Ruvin’s breakfast. Picture a potato, egg, and cheese scramble, barbacoa, and refried beans, all cozily tucked into fresh tortillas. Full Goods Diner isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a brunch haven where every bite tells a delicious story. So, if you’re in the mood for a relaxing, friendly, and flavor-packed experience, head on over. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ladino
Check out the hottest spot at the Pearl Brewery – it’s none other than Ladino, the fresh face in the space once ruled by Andrew Weissman’s Il Sogno. Brought to you by the culinary maestros at the Emmer and Rye Hospitality Group, with the amazing Executive Chef Berty Richter leading the charge.
Let’s talk about the name – Ladino. It’s not just a random choice; it’s Chef Richter’s nod to the Judeo-Spanish language he grew up speaking at home. And guess what? It’s making waves, earning a well-deserved spot on Bon Appétit’s “Most Exciting New Restaurants in September 2022” list. Impressive, huh?
Ladino is all about blending unique flavors rooted in Chef Richter’s journey through Turkey, Israel, Greece, and the Balkans. Imagine a menu heavily influenced by Mediterranean ingredients and flavors, but with a twist. They take the Sephardic tradition of cooking over a charcoal grill and turn out some seriously inventive dishes.
Now, let’s talk must-tries. Start your feast with a lineup of dips and freshly baked pita bread that will transport you to the Mediterranean. The Muhammara dip, a mix of peppers and Texas pecans, is a game-changer. Dive into the hot meze, Arayis, with lamb and beef, spicy tomato, and whipped tahini – it’s a flavor explosion. And for the main event, the pork souvlaki covered in creamy, garlicky tzatziki is an absolute winner.
But hey, let’s keep it real. One tiny hiccup – the music can be on the louder side. So, if you’re hard of hearing or sensitive to volume, this restaurants in San Antonio might not be your jam. However, if you’re up for a date night, consider yourself an adventurous eater, or just want something brand new and unusual, Ladino is calling your name. Get ready for a culinary journey like no other..
FAQs
What food is San Antonio, Texas famous for?
San Antonio is famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, which includes delicious dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and nachos. The city is also known for its unique culinary blend, influenced by Mexican and American flavors.
What is the name of the revolving restaurant in San Antonio?
The revolving restaurant in San Antonio is called the Chart House. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline as it slowly rotates, providing a memorable dining experience.
Is San Antonio a foodie town?
Yes, San Antonio is considered a foodie town. With a diverse culinary scene ranging from Tex-Mex to fine dining, the city caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re into traditional Mexican flavors or modern fusion cuisine, San Antonio has something for every food enthusiast.
I’m Justin Taylor, your go-to guy at “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been soaking in the colors and stories of this city for a while now, and I want you to join me on this fantastic journey. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your visit unforgettable. It’s not just tourism; it’s like turning information into a real, vibrant experience. Come along, and let’s explore the wonders of San Antonio together!
