The 22 Best Restaurants in San Antonio Right Now! (2024)

Absolutely, San Antonio is a real treat for food lovers! Whether you’re a local on the hunt for tasty bites or a visitor exploring the culinary scene, get ready for a flavor-packed adventure. This guide is your go-to for the absolute best restaurants in San Antonio.

A map showing the best places to eat in San Antonio, as recommended by people who live there. It includes places for tacos, BBQ, fancy dinners, fast lunch options, and more.

Best places to eat in San Antonio:

• Boudro’s
• Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery
• Acenar
• Iron Cactus
• Rebelle
• Tycoon Flats

Dive into the city’s culinary wonderland influenced by its vibrant culture. Feel the Mexican and Spanish vibes in the family-run taco stands and bustling Mexican restaurants that add a spicy kick to your taste buds.

Embrace the Southwestern charm of Texas, making San Antonio a haven for mouthwatering southern dishes, meat-centric spots, and standout BBQ joints that’ll have you coming back for more.

Blending south Texas with the Texas Hill Country, San Antonio boasts upscale New American restaurants with a charming rustic-chic flair. And, let’s not overlook the enchanting San Antonio Riverwalk, where waterside eateries serve up delightful views alongside delectable dishes. Your foodie journey in San Antonio begins right here!

22 Best Restaurants in San Antonio

Creating a “best of” list for San Antonio’s vast culinary scene is no small task. We’ve set some guidelines to make sure this guide hits the mark:

All-day eating focus

This guide is designed to cover your dining needs throughout the day. Whether you’re looking for a delightful lunch spot, a quick and casual eatery, or a classy dinner option, we’ve got you covered. Keep an eye out for our upcoming guide on high-end restaurants in San Antonio for your special date nights!

Diversity matters

While we adore New American cuisine, San Antonio’s food scene is bursting with diversity. Our “best of” list aims to capture the variety that makes this city’s culinary offerings truly special.

The trifecta

We prioritize the holy trinity of food, service, and ambiance. It’s not just about delicious and creative dishes; it’s about the overall experience. A fantastic menu should be complemented by excellent service and a delightful atmosphere, and our list reflects this commitment.

Remember, when you dine out, you’re investing in the entire experience. It’s more than just about the food (though that’s crucial too!).

1. Cured

New American/Meat-forward

Good for: brunch, date night, family meal

Cured, nestled in the historic Pearl district, is an exceptionally distinctive and unforgettable dining experience. As the name suggests, it’s all about charcuterie, and James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh takes it to another level with his New American menu.

From pâté to chicken liver mousse, cheese plates to pickled veggies, and an array of salami, duck ham, and smoked habanero oysters, Cured promises a rich, salty, and utterly decadent meal. The restaurant, housed in a charming 1904 building, exudes a rustic ambiance with exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and a tempting display of house-cured meats.

Even if you opt for a casual visit, sipping whiskey at the long cocktail bar while enjoying a charcuterie board, you’ll be captivated by Cured’s aesthetics.

Reserve a spot for lunch, dinner, or Sunday supper to explore a menu filled with exciting flavors. Keep in mind; it’s a carnivore’s delight, not the ideal spot for your vegetarian friend. Cured stands out as one of San Antonio’s top restaurants.

Beyond just a focus on cured meats, Cured embraces depth in its approach—preservation, sustainability, and a commitment to a nose-to-tail/root-to-tip menu creation. The meticulously preserved building reflects this dedication.

The must-try item? The charcuterie plate, featuring hand-crafted cured delights like jalapeño pork rillettes and 75-day sobrasada, accompanied by pickled local veggies and house-made preserves.

Steve McHugh’s fusion of organic Texas ingredients with influences from New Orleans and the Midwest results in innovative takes on southern cuisine. Indulge in menu highlights like the B.O.T. with masa-fried oysters, slow-cooked pork belly with crawfish bisque, or the renowned heritage hog poutine featuring Wisconsin cheddar curds and pickled cauliflower (add a fried egg!).

Brunch enthusiasts, don’t miss the mind-blowing stone-ground grits, a perfect companion to the Stead & Eggs or a standalone decadent delight.

Even the cocktails align with Cured’s commitment to sustainable practices, exemplified by the summer daiquiri, where watermelon sweetness meets pickled, diced, and speared white, bitter melon rind as a unique garnish.

From the thoughtful restaurant name to the impeccably preserved historic building, attentive service, and quality ingredients, every facet of Cured delights. This San Antonio gem rekindles the love for the art of dining, easily securing its spot among the city’s very best restaurants.

2. Maverick Texas Brasserie

French American

Good for: date night, dinner party

Maverick is a cool French American restaurant perfect for a fancy date night. Imagine a stylish place with black beams, cool light bulbs, and a long, shiny copper bar.

There are different rooms here, making it fun for big dinners like birthdays or rehearsal dinners.

Maverick is chill enough for a burger date on a Thursday or fancy enough for a big celebration. They have a great wine list from France and California and lots of tasty cocktails.

The menu mixes Texas and French foods. They have awesome stuff like a really good Steak Frite (try the truffle fries!), a yummy Croque madame, and a tasty half duck from the rotisserie.

If you’re not sure what to order, go for the daily Plats Du Jour. For $34, you get a salad, a special main dish, and a dessert. Maverick is not just one of the best restaurants in San Antonio, but it’s also not too pricey for the great food you get.

3. Curry Boys

Fusion

Good for: a weekday lunch

Curry Boys is hands down one of the coolest restaurants in San Antonio. It’s also a perfect spot for a quick and tasty solo lunch in SA. Their bright pink building is hard to miss and is now the perfect home for Curry Boys, giving them plenty of space to work their culinary magic.

What makes Curry Boys stand out is their fantastic fusion of flavors: mouthwatering smoked barbecue combined with southeast Asian curry. Yum! Their food is so good that they were named James Beard Award semi-finalists for 2023.

The smoked barbecue is expertly crafted by the talented folks at South BBQ, while the Asian influences come from Pinch Boil House, a laid-back spot famous for cajun seafood boils and southeast Asian street food.

For first-timers, the Brisket Smoke Show bowl is a must-try. It features delicious smoked brisket paired with green curry, served with a generous scoop of rice, soft potatoes, and carrots. And don’t overlook the cold chili garlic noodles – topped with a spicy chili crunch and fried shallots, they’re the perfect chilled sidekick to the hot bowl of brisket and curry.

With its vibrant pink building and incredible fusion menu, Curry Boys isn’t just one of the best restaurants in San Antonio; it might become your new favorite spot for a quick and tasty solo lunch!

4. Bar Loretta

New American

Good for: date night or craft cocktails at the bar

“Hungry, thirsty, or both?” These welcoming words greeted me as I pulled up a bar stool at the bustling Bar Loretta on a lively night. The correct answer? Undoubtedly “both” because this place can’t quite decide if it leans more towards being a lively bar or an exquisite restaurant. Get ready for a delightful mix of both worlds.

This neighborhood gem exudes the warmth of a local hangout, yet it surprises with gourmet offerings like lobster risotto with salty parmesan or crispy brick chicken adorned with a fried local farm egg and sage red wine demi.

The food menu is beyond impressive, featuring staples like the Loretta Burger, brick chicken, and butter scallops that have become beloved by locals and are here to stay. The delectable dishes alone could secure Bar Loretta’s spot among the best restaurants in San Antonio.

But, there’s more to Bar Loretta than just fantastic food; it boasts a remarkable cocktail menu. Each drink comes with a playful note about its preparation and presentation – from being “shaken with arugula & garnished with something green” to witty anecdotes like “Think of it as a Mexican white negroni. Bitter & sweet, just like life.” It’s not just cheeky and amusing but also informative for us regular cocktail enthusiasts.

Bar Loretta effortlessly plays the role of the Upscale Date Night Restaurant. Plan ahead, make those dinner reservations, and indulge in a delightful experience with a selection of cocktails, starters, and entrees to explore the full menu.

Yet, even when not taking center stage, Bar Loretta is equally comfortable in a supporting role. For those nights when all you crave is a welcoming bar stool, a hearty meal, and a perfectly crafted drink, Bar Loretta has got you covered.

5. 2M Smokehouse

Barbecue

Good for: a huge lunch feast

When it comes to talking about the top spots to grab a bite in this famous Texas city, you can’t skip mentioning a barbecue joint. Among San Antonio’s barbecue hotspots, 2M Smokehouse steals the spotlight.

They’ve scored a spot on Texas Monthly’s “Top 50 Texas BBQ Joints” list more than once, and the weekend lines of eager diners tell you it’s a foodie favorite for locals and visitors alike.

At 2M Smokehouse, the brisket is the real deal – peppery and smoked to a perfect melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Make sure to snag some before it runs out, and load up your plate with their tasty pork ribs and housemade sausage. (Trust me, the pork link with serrano peppers and Oaxaca cheese is a blast.)

To complement the savory meats, dive into the “pickled” section of the menu. Tangy and tart pickled bell peppers, nopales (cactus), and serranos come in small 4 or 8 oz portions, fitting snugly on your BBQ tray.

And let’s not forget the sides that take 2M Smokehouse to the next level. Maria’s Ranchero-Style Beans are far from ordinary – they boast a perfect salty, umami flavor and could stand on their own as a main dish. 

Don’t miss out on a large serving of Mexican street corn and the vibrant, bubble gum-sweet coleslaw. And the desserts? All made in-house, and if you can’t decide between two options, the answer is yes.

For a taste of truly great San Antonio eats, 2M Smokehouse is a must-try.

6. NONNA Osteria

Italian

Good for: date night

In San Antonio, there are lots of great Italian restaurants, but Nonna stands out for its lovely atmosphere, fancy service, and the best handmade northern Italian food.

Nonna is on the ground floor of the Fairmont hotel, just across from Hemisfair park. (Before dinner, you can reserve a spot at the Fairmont Hotel’s rooftop oyster bar for awesome views!) It’s a small, bright place with white tables and shiny floors – feels classic and comfy.

The word “Nonna” means “grandmother” in Italian, and the chef, Luca Della Casa, got lots of menu ideas from his grandma’s kitchen.

Nonna’s menu has yummy starters, Italian pizzas, and handmade pasta. But the real star is the Tartufo (with a market price). Your server puts on a cool show, mixing homemade pasta in a cheese rind, adding lump crab, and topping it with black truffle shavings. It’s a game-changer.

7. Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

French Comfort Food

Good for: upscale breakfast, lunch, dinner

On the website, one of the first pics you’ll see is the Raclette – that ooey-gooey cheese melted and scraped off a half-wheel. Totally Insta-worthy. We’re off to a great start!

But Mon Chou Chou is more than just fancy French dishes. Sure, try the chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich with Parisian ham and housemade aioli, or the slow-braised lamb shank in red wine reduction.

And yeah, do it the Parisian way – swap out water for a full bottle of wine!

But wait!! If you’re not up for a full meal, Mon Chou Chou is a sweet spot for an afternoon snack (maybe a baguette sandwich or classic escargot?). Pair it with a nice glass of white wine, and enjoy watching shoppers in the Pearl district. The outdoor bistro tables are perfect for a break, sipping a drink, and soaking in the vibe.

Mon Chou Chou also does breakfast on weekdays and a brunch on Sundays.

8. Jerk Shack

Caribbean, fast-casual

Good for: lunch

If you love about Caribbean flavors like spicy jerk chicken, caramelized plantains, brown sugar yams, and rice with peas, then you’re in for a treat at Jerk Shack. And if you’re not sure about Caribbean food, take one bite of their famous masala fries, and you’ll be hooked.

Founded by Jamaica-native Nicola Blaque, Jerk Shack is The place for the best jerk chicken ever. Seriously. Chef Blaque designed the original Jerk Shack to resemble a classic Caribbean spot where jerk chicken is the star.

She crafts her own special (and kind of complicated) mix of spices to create that perfect sweet and fiery jerk seasoning. The first spot is now closed (it got too small, and Texas summers needed better air conditioning!), but the new location near SeaWorld San Antonio has a spacious dining area to cater to hungry customers.

They’re open for lunch and dinner, and while you can get your food to go, remember that some of it’s fried, and fried goodies can get a bit soggy in a to-go box. So, the ultimate Jerk Shack experience is to show up REALLY hungry, grab a combo plate with a few items, and eat until you’re blissfully content. Enjoy!

9. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

Neapolitan pizza

Good for: kid-friendly dinner, casual meal

Hands down, Dough is where you find the best pizza in San Antonio. No ifs or buts. While they have two spots, the cozy joint at Hemisfair Park is the winner. Right by the splash pad and playground, it’s a hit if you’re in town with little ones. (The Blanco Rd spot serves the same yummy pies, but it’s in a shopping center with a cement patio – less charm.)

They’re rocking legitimate Neapolitan-style pizza: cute little pies quickly cooked in a brick oven, giving them a crispy outer edge and a soft middle. They’re the real deal, meeting all the criteria set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN), using the right stuff – mozzarella, flour, and toppings.

But wait, there’s more! Explore their house-made burrata, fresh salads straight from the farm, and mouthwatering pasta dishes. Yet, the real star is their delightful 12” pizzas. Food Network has even given them a nod (look for the logo on the menu). All the toppings are top-notch. Trust your gut and pick the one (or three…) that calls your name. Enjoy!

10. Bliss

New American

Good for: date night

Bliss, a chef-owned and operated New American gem, is a must-visit in the San Antonio dining scene. Picture this: it’s a charmingly renovated filling station turned into a beautiful restaurant. Yep, that’s Bliss for you – comfortable, quaint, and a feast for the eyes.

This spot is all about seasonal cuisine, so the menu is like a culinary adventure, always changing. As a diner, you’re in for a treat with the newest and freshest offerings. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance – relaxed yet elegant. It sets the stage for an ideal cozy date night or a memorable meal with your loved ones. Bliss is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience.

11. Clementine

New American

Good for: Upscale Dinner Date

Clementine is like a secret treasure in the Castle Hills neighborhood, quietly mastering haute cuisine. Chefs and owners John and Elise Russ worked their magic, earning them a spot as finalists in the James Beard Award Foundation for 2023. Even though they didn’t clinch the win, having this gem in San Antonio is a victory in itself.

This quaint restaurant in Castle Hills might seem unassuming from the outside, but step inside, and you’ll find a masterclass in haute cuisine. The indoor dining room, adorned in soft blues with clementine posters and wine racks, exudes charm.

Service at Clementine is everything you’d expect from a top-tier eatery – prompt, friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable. But it goes beyond that; the servers are genuinely excited about what Clementine is creating, eager to share the joy. It’s a place where the love for food is contagious.

The menu at Clementine is a journey through petites (hors d’oeuvre), sideboards (main course sides or appetizers), platters (entrees), and “the best parts” (clearly desserts). Our suggestion?

Mix it up and try dishes from each section to experience the absolute delight of Clementine’s inventive and delicious food. For the adventurous souls, dive into the “Feed Me” option. Let the chef whip up a personalized, on-the-spot multi-course meal tailored to your tastes and what’s in season. Clementine is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience worth savoring.

12. Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery

Brewery and Texas Cuisine

Good for: Fun, Casual Meal

Southern restaurants are a dime a dozen in Texas, but what makes Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery stand out as one of the best in San Antonio? It’s the winning trifecta of ambiance, service, and food – and at Southerleigh, they’ve mastered all three.

Located right next to the Hotel Emma (you can stroll into the lobby straight from the restaurant), Southerleigh occupies the space that once housed the Pearl Brewhouse, Texas’s oldest brewery. After over a century in operation, the historic brewery closed its doors, but the building got a facelift and reopened as Southerleigh, an upscale southern restaurant and brewery.

Southerleigh’s menu is a dance of southern flavors blended with coastal influences from Chef Jeff Balfour’s Galveston upbringing. Picture cracker-crusted redfish with lemon butter sauce, deviled eggs with bacon jam that’s sweet and tangy, and a Galveston-style shrimp boil.

Brace yourself for a surprising standout: the pork schnitzel and spaetzle drizzled with a buttery beurre blanc sauce. It might make your heart skip a beat mid-bite, but at least you’ll die happy.

This joint isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a fully-operating brewery. So, grab a pint to go with your dinner. All of Southerleigh’s beer is brewed in-house, so ask your server about the current lineup. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a flight to sample a variety of beers?

For dessert, the choice is a no-brainer: the three-layer carrot cake with cream cheese icing and thyme caramel. Southerleigh is the epitome of a Southern dining experience done right.

13. Reese Bros BBQ

Texas BBQ

Good for: Lunch

Reese Bros BBQ may be the new kid on the SA barbecue block, but they’ve quickly claimed their spot among the best BBQ spots in the city and one of San Antonio’s finest restaurants.

Meet the actual Reese Bros, Nick, and Elliott Reese. They burst onto the BBQ scene, winning hearts with sell-out pop-up events and a crowd of BBQ enthusiasts. By 2022, they set up shop, and almost every day they’re open, they sell out.

At Reese Bros BBQ, it’s all about the food – and trust me, it’s exceptional. Their oak-smoked brisket steals the show, incredibly tender and practically melting in your mouth. The sausages, especially the queso fundido ones, are also a hit! And oh, the sides! Poblano mac and cheese, okra and pinto beans, and homemade tortillas – pure yum.

You might be tempted to make a meal out of just the sides, but resist! Because you absolutely NEED Reese Bros meat. It’s BBQ magic that’ll leave you craving more.

14. Garcia’s Mexican Food

Tex Mex

Good for: Quick breakfast takeout or casual lunch

San Antonio is a Tex-Mex haven, boasting numerous top-notch spots. However, when it comes to Tex-Mex, Garcia’s Mexican Food rises above the rest. It’s not about fancy here (who needs fancy with Tex-Mex?), it’s about straightforward, consistently delicious food.

For over 60 years, Garcia’s has been dishing out top-tier Tex-Mex. Today, the original owner’s children are at the helm, keeping up the quality and excellence that defines Garcia’s.

At Garcia’s, get ready for traditional Tex-Mex delights like tacos, enchiladas, and chalupas – each bite tasty and satisfying. And here’s the twist – Garcia’s serves up sensational brisket by the pound, in sandwiches, or on San Antonio’s best breakfast tacos.

We’re firm believers that almost anything, Tex-Mex included, is better with brisket. But don’t just take our word for it; swing by Garcia’s and taste the magic for yourself. It’s Tex-Mex done right, with that extra touch of brisket perfection.

15. Outlaw Kitchens

American

Good for: Upscale Dinner Date

Outlaw Kitchens is a charming family-owned spot tucked in a cute stone bungalow in Beacon Hill. Open only from Thursday to Saturday for dinner, they keep it simple with a weekly rotating menu featuring one appetizer, two entrees (including a vegetarian option), and two desserts (one gluten-free). And that’s it.

But hold on, it’s anything but dull. Outlaw Kitchens excels in elevating quality, making it not just one of San Antonio’s best restaurants, but also one of the most unique.

Quality is the name of the game at OK, from the service to the ambiance. The servers strike the perfect balance – attentive and engaging without being intrusive. The whole place feels like a “family-owned” gem, maintaining the charm of an upscale neighborhood bistro.

Quality shines through in the food too. Each dish is a masterpiece, both in flavor and presentation. Since the menu changes weekly, I can’t suggest a specific dish, but I can guarantee it’ll be excellent. Top-notch ingredients, well-rounded flavors, and skilled chefs – it all adds up to culinary perfection!

Given Outlaw Kitchen’s unique approach, here are some tips. First, check the menu online every Tuesday for the upcoming weekend. If nothing catches your eye, just wait a week. Second, reservations are a must. And third, since there’s no dedicated parking, park along Flores Street, not in front of nearby residences. Outlaw Kitchens is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience worth planning for.

16. Allora

Coastal Italian

Good for: Dinner With Friends

Allora, making waves since March 2022, brings a simple yet chic vibe to coastal Italian cuisine in San Antonio. Executive chef/owner/operator Robbie Nowlin has crafted a unique spot, leaning heavily on Texas-style and New American offerings rather than upscale international fare.

Complete with a diverse menu and top-notch service, Allora stands out as the full package for dining experiences in the Alamo City.

From antipasti to sashimi-grade crudi to main courses, Allora’s menus overflow with flavor. Whether you choose lunch, brunch, or dinner, each menu offers a distinctive experience. Standouts include the popular Grilled Octopus, Prosciutto di Parma, and Tagliatelle alla Bolognese Bianco.

Protip: For a more budget-friendly taste of Allora, swing by during lunch and grab a panini. With prices ranging from $15-17, you can savor the whole experience at a fraction of the cost of their dinner menu. Allora is a culinary journey worth taking without breaking the bank.

17. Cullum’s Attaboy

Parisian-inspired

Good for: breakfast or brunch

Cullum’s Attaboy has taken San Antonio’s food scene by storm in just over a year. Chef Chris Cullum, a longtime SA resident, created a restaurant that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Named after its popular food trailer, Cullum’s Attaboy pays homage to some beloved meals from long-gone San Antonio restaurants.

The food at Cullum’s is a delightful mix, drawing inspiration from jazzy New Orleans, upscale coastal, and traditional diner vibes. For a touch of fancy, throw caviar on almost anything, and their cocktail list, heavy on champagne, perfectly complements your caviar experience.

If you’re in the mood for a simpler meal, kick off with the 1915 Spudnut Donut. Then, dive into the Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich or one of the Attaboy Burgers. Wrap it all up with a Floating Island – Cullum’s twist on the French dessert “ile flottante,” a decadent treat with meringue, shaved almond, and ice cream sauce.

Bonus: For more variety, hop next door to Cullum’s older sister restaurant, Cullum’s Attagirl, for wings, sandwiches, and a choice of 12 craft beers on tap. Cullum’s Attaboy is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey celebrating San Antonio’s flavors, past and present.

18. The Magpie

Fusion/New American

Good for: Upscale Dinner Date

The Magpie is a cozy gem, tucked into a strip mall on San Antonio’s near-East side. With just 12 tables (up from the original 4), this spot defies expectations for its neighborhood, hinting at big things in small packages.

Owned by Korean-born chef Sue Kim, The Magpie sprinkles Korean flavors throughout its menu. It’s not quite a Korean-fusion joint; it’s more of a free-spirited bistro with global influences. So, the only label that truly fits here is “good.” Really good.

The menu at The Magpie leans heavily on shareable dishes, with some hearty options for solo diners. Given the creativity on display, ordering a variety is the way to go. The Magpie’s forte lies in ingenuity.

On our visit, we savored The Magpie’s signature milk bread, limited-time seared shrimp and pappardelle noodles, ribeye, and chocolate mousse – all mouthwateringly delicious. Yet, I couldn’t help eyeing other tables’ dishes – the garden salad, mushroom skewer, dak galbi, snapper – and I wanted it all. A return trip is definitely on the horizon.

Now, the drawbacks. First, the parking situation is tight. The strip mall’s dedicated lot fills up fast, so plan accordingly. Second, the reservation system requires a $10/person deposit, refundable after your visit. But if flexibility is crucial for you, this might pose a challenge.

The Magpie is a culinary adventure waiting to be experienced, offering global flavors in a quaint setting.

19. Pharm Table

Plant-based food

Good for: lunch or dinner

Pharm Table is on a mission – to bring bodily balance through food for greater energy, strength, and vitality. Chef Elizabeth Johnson, a follower of Ayurveda, believes in the profound impact of what we eat on our well-being. Her restaurant isn’t just about taste; it’s about what the food can do for us.

Pharm Table San Antonio

In the heart of San Antonio’s Southtown, Pharm Table offers a unique dining experience as an almost vegetarian/vegan spot. Local, fresh ingredients dominate the menu, with a dash of lean protein for those still warming up to vegetarian cuisine. You won’t find processed sugars, dairy, or wheat here, but trust me, it won’t matter. Pharm Table proves that healthy and fresh isn’t just good for you; it tastes amazing too.

Beyond being delicious and health-conscious, Pharm Table’s food is a feast for the eyes. Bursting with vibrant colors from fresh produce, each dish is a visual delight. Standouts include the za’atar crusted fish tacos, oyster mushroom masala, and the stunning berry pancakes with a deep purple blueberry and blackberry compote that’s downright heavenly.

Pro tip: Pharm Table is part of a complex with great eateries. With validation, you get free parking for up to an hour and a half, a huge plus in an area where parking can be a challenge. Pharm Table is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary haven that nourishes both body and soul.

20. Dashi Sichuan Kitchen

Chinese

Good for: weeknight dinner

Dashi Sichuan Kitchen may not boast a great location or stunning views, but what it lacks in aesthetics, it more than makes up for with mind-blowing food. This Asian fusion gem, led by SA chef Jian Li, has claimed its spot at the top of San Antonio’s culinary scene.

Nestled in a strip mall at Jones Maltsberger and Thousand Oaks, Dashi surprises with its swanky velvet seating, vibrant Chinese lanterns, dramatic chandeliers, and contemporary epoxy flooring – an east-meets-the-club vibe.

But let’s be real, you’re here for the food. Chef Li’s mastery of Sichuan-style cooking, with a focus on pickling, salting, drying, spicing, and plenty of chili oil, is unrivaled, making Dashi THE go-to spot in SA for Asian cuisine.

At Dashi, dive into traditional stir-fries, noodle and rice bowls, or Sichuan-specific delights like wok-seared Mongolia ribeye and spicy cumin and lamb lollipops. The family-style servings make it a delicious, shareable experience. Dashi Sichuan Kitchen is not just a restaurant; it’s a flavor-packed journey for your taste buds.

21. Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood

Steak and Seafood

Good For: Date Night Or fancy party

In Texas, a list of the best restaurants in San Antonio must include a fantastic steakhouse, and Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood fits the bill perfectly. Situated downtown on Houston Street, right across from the Majestic Theatre, it’s an ideal spot for a fabulous date night.

Opened by Chef Mark Bohanan in 2002, the restaurant resides in a historic building radiating old-world elegance. With its dark, gleaming wood, sparkling crystal, and crisp white tablecloths, Bohanan’s creates a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere.

Bohanan’s is a standout in the local steakhouse scene, offering a distinctively San Antonio experience. As you step in, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff, making the atmosphere both welcoming and classy.

It’s not just about the steaks; Bohanan’s is a total class act in restaurant management, delivering a dining experience that captures the essence of San Antonio’s culinary excellence. And for a perfect date night, you can’t beat the location—directly across from the Majestic Theatre. Cheers to a memorable evening at Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood!

Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood is an elegant restaurant with a friendly vibe. Despite its upscale ambiance, the staff is welcoming and attentive, striking a perfect balance.

The first floor features a full-service bar specializing in classic and house specialty cocktails. The condensed food menu includes popular items like filet and ribeye, making it accessible even without reservations.

For the complete experience, reservations are recommended. Upon entering, head to the back of the bar, take the elevator to the second floor, and enjoy a meal that starts with a delightful snack and fresh bread.

22. Krazy Katsu

Japanese Fried Chicken

Good For: fast casual lunch

Krazy Katsu made its debut in July 2022 at the Yard Shopping Center in Olmos Park, starting as a food trailer. The Japanese-style fried chicken sandwiches, featuring herb-brined chicken breaded in panko crumbs, quickly gained popularity. Within the first two days, they sold over 900 pounds of chicken, and the business has been thriving ever since.

Specializing in large, Japanese-inspired chicken sandwiches served on freshly made Hawaiian buns, Krazy Katsu offers a variety of options. The sandwiches are known for their generous size, and customers can choose from ten crowd-pleasing options. Each sandwich can be paired with seasoned, crinkle-cut fries or smaller Katsu chicken bites.

Notable choices include the Original with Kung Fu sauce and pickles, or the Last Samurai featuring Japanese pickled cucumbers and teriyaki bourbon sauce. For those who can’t decide, the sliders offer a chance to try up to three different sandwiches on a smaller scale.

After a successful year in Olmos Park, Krazy Katsu expanded to a second brick-and-mortar location in the Medical Center, making their delicious sandwiches more accessible on San Antonio’s northwest side. Be sure to try these flavorful and substantial sandwiches on your next visit!

FAQs

Who is the top 1 restaurant in the world 2023?

• o.9 Quintonil. Mexico City. …
• No.8 Atomix. New York. …
• No.7 Lido 84. Gardone Riviera. …
• No.6 Maido. Lima. …
• No.5 Alchemist. Copenhagen. alchemist.dk. …
• No.3 Diverxo. Madrid. diverxo.com. …
• No.2 Disfrutar. Barcelona. disfrutarbarcelona.com. …
• No.1 Central. Lima. centralrestaurante.com.pe.

What food is San Antonio famous for?

San Antonio is renowned for its distinctive Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines elements of Mexican and Texan culinary traditions. Some popular dishes include breakfast tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and puffy tacos. Additionally, the city is known for its unique chili con carne, a hearty stew made with meat, chili peppers, and various spices.

Who won best restaurant in the world?

The title of the best restaurant in the world can vary depending on the organization providing the rankings. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, prestigious awards like The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and the Michelin Guide announce annual winners. To find the most recent recipient, please check the latest updates from these renowned culinary awards.

Is San Antonio a foodie town?

Yes, San Antonio is often considered a foodie town due to its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. The city offers a rich blend of Tex-Mex, Mexican, Southern, and other regional cuisines. With a wide range of dining options, from food trucks to upscale restaurants, San Antonio attracts food enthusiasts looking to explore and savor a variety of flavors.