Your Best Bets For Tex Mex On The Riverwalk

No surprise, the tastiest Tex Mex in San Antonio isn’t on the Riverwalk. Ask any local food lover here, and they won’t point you to the bustling Riverwalk restaurants for amazing Tex Mex – not a chance!

But (you saw it coming, right?), there are moments when you crave Tex Mex on the Riverwalk. If that’s the deal, here are your top choices for some really good eats.

Perhaps you’re in San Antonio for a conference at the Henry B. González Convention Center, and tonight, you and your pals fancy margaritas at a patio table by the Riverwalk. Or you’re here with your family, and you’re eager to take the kids to a lively Tex Mex joint for fajitas and chips & queso.

Whatever brings you here, there are indeed moments when Tex Mex on the San Antonio Riverwalk is just what you need! So, if that’s the deal, here are some great restaurant choices.

Discover the top 10 best Tex Mex restaurants near the San Antonio Riverwalk in Texas:

1. Santa Diabla
2. Tlahco Mexican Kitchen
3. Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar
4. Casa Rio (Rating: 2.9 – 2,000 reviews)
5. La Revolucion (Rating: 4.5 – 93 reviews)
6. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar (Rating: 3.3 – 1,800 reviews)
7. El Mariachi Loco (Rating: 4.7 – 18 reviews)
8. Mi Tierra Cafe & Bakery (Rating: 3.7 – 3,500 reviews)

Disclaimer: The Riverwalk Doesn’t Have Good Tex Mex Food

I’m just giving you the heads up! There are loads of fantastic Tex-Mex spots in San Antonio if you’re up for exploring beyond the touristy area. But hey, I totally understand! Sometimes folks really dig that Riverwalk restaurant vibe.

Just a heads-up, though – Riverwalk joints are all about speedy service and hefty bills. So, expect kinda watery salsa, not-so-flavorful enchiladas, tequila bars stealing the show (not complaining!), and mariachi bands cranking up the volume.

But hey, it’s all good in the right moment!

Three Spots Near The Riverwalk With Great Tex Mex

1. Rosario’s ComidaMex and Bar

Location: 722 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205

If you’re into timeless Tex Mex, Rosario’s is the spot. Operating since the ’90s, even the New York Times praised its Tex-Mex magic. Live music every weekend, a lively vibe, and spacious seating make it perfect for groups. And let’s talk about those sizzling fajitas – no dry, overcooked steak here! Check out their website here.

2. Mi Tierra Café y Panadería

Location: Downtown San Antonio (about a 10-minute walk from the Riverwalk)

A Texas legend, Mi Tierra sits in the historic market square. Sure, it’s touristy, but the food beats the most packed Riverwalk joints. Owned by the Cortéz family since 1941, it’s a Tex Mex haven with options galore. From breakfast to drinks at the bar, they’ve got you covered.

3. La Margarita

Location: 120 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207

Located in Market Square, La Margarita rocks flavorful Tex-Mex near the Riverwalk. Housed in a New Orleans-style building, it’s perfect for margaritas, fajitas, and their renowned oysters. Bonus: make reservations online to skip the line.

Bonus spot: La Fonda On Main

Not walking distance from the Riverwalk, but totally worth it for exceptional Tex Mex, potent margaritas, and a delightful setting. Grab an outdoor table at La Fonda for the win!

Best Tex Mex On The Riverwalk In San Antonio

Alright, if you’re still super set on having Tex Mex on the San Antonio Riverwalk, despite all my convincing arguments to explore elsewhere, no worries! Here’s the scoop on the top spots for tacos, margaritas, fajitas, queso, and all those Tex Mex faves.

Quick heads up: while south TX serves up way better tejano cuisine, sometimes tourists just gotta do touristy things. Eat, drink, and enjoy!

Pro tip: If you can be flexible with your Riverwalk visit time, aim for happy hour. Almost every Tex Mex spot here has cool deals during those hours. Riverwalk prices can be steep because, well, it’s a tourist hotspot where they make some serious $$$.

So, for half-price margs, discounted apps, or turning tacos and nachos into a meal, check out the restaurant websites and hit them up just before dinner.

Read also: Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants

1. Ácenar

Oh, you’ve got to check out Ácenar – it’s seriously good stuff! It’s not smack in the middle of the main Riverwalk hustle, so prepare for a short walk. But hey, it’s still a Riverwalk gem (check the map above).

Ácenar comes from the minds behind two famous San Antonio spots (one from Rosario’s, mentioned earlier, and another from Biga on the Banks, a top Riverwalk pick for American cuisine).

Chef Richard Sanchez whips up Mexican classics with a Texas twist – basically, Tex Mex vibes. Although, I’d say the menu leans a bit more Mexican. Seafood lovers, this is your haven – ceviche, fish tacos, grilled snapper, they’ve got it all.

Lunch and happy hour deals, killer cocktails, and different dining levels with sweet Riverwalk views – they’ve got the whole package.

Here’s the cool part: you can dine ABOVE the Riverwalk. No dealing with pedestrians invading your space or sneaky birds eyeing your chips. Ácenar’s patio gives you that same view, but in a peaceful, private setting. Nice, right?

2. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar

Let’s talk about Iron Cactus – it’s originally from Austin but decided to grace the San Antonio Riverwalk with a second spot. It’s a peaceful spot to savor fajitas along the Riverwalk. What I love? The outdoor patio has a guard rail with planters, so no worries about pedestrians crashing into your meal. It’s a bit more laid-back than Casa Rio but not as secluded as Ácenar.

And oh, their tequila game is strong – 100 premium tequilas strong, to be exact. (The name Margarita Bar isn’t just for show!) If you’re into top-notch, freshly made margaritas that won’t leave you regretting life the next day, Iron Cactus has your back. Try the spicy watermelon or prickly pear margarita, or go full tequila nerd with a flight.

While they call themselves Mexican, the menu screams more Tex-Mex. Think pork tamale pops, a cheeseburger, hickory-grilled salmon, alongside classics like sizzling beef fajitas, tuna ceviche, and tres leches cake.

It might not be a standalone top pick in San Antonio, but if you’re on the hunt for good Tex Mex on the Riverwalk, Iron Cactus has you covered.

3. Domingo

Check out Domingo, a chic terrace spot just steps from the San Antonio River. Even though it’s inside the Hilton’s Canopy Hotel, it’s anything but corporate.

They’re serving up Mexican delights with a Texas twist. Kick off your meal with one of their cool signature cocktails, like the Oaxaca Colada with Banhez mezcal, coconut cream, and banana liquor, or a passion fruit margarita. The guacamole has a spicy twist with charred serrano chili, and the skillet cornbread with honey butter adds a Texan touch to the Mexican menu. And let me tell you, their tacos are out-of-this-world amazing, served on freshly made corn tortillas.

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Domingo offers a beautiful setting right on the Riverwalk. In my book, it’s some of the best Mexican food along the Riverwalk. Just a heads-up, though – riverwalk prices are in play, as usual with spots right on the water in San Antonio.

4. Casa Rio

Guess what? Casa Rio made the list! I know, I know – the food isn’t exactly mind-blowing. The salsa? More like tomatoes swimming in water. And those chicken tamales? Dry and kinda blah; you’ll be piling on sour cream and cheese to bring them to life.

But here’s the deal – Casa Rio is the OG. It’s the oldest and most iconic spot on the Riverwalk. You can’t miss it with those vibrant umbrellas. And there’s a certain charm in saying you’ve dined at this classic institution.

5. Rio Rio, Rita’s On The River, The Original Mexican Restaurant, and all the rest…

Alright, from here on, there isn’t a huge difference in the Tex Mex scene along the Riverwalk. If none of these have grabbed your attention, just take a stroll until you spot one that looks promising!

Consider the wait times during peak hours (Friday and Saturday evenings). If you’re not too picky, go for the one that can seat your group the quickest.

Check out menus and prices – most places display them outside. This touristy spot in San Antonio makes it easy for pedestrians to decide where to eat.

So, while I can’t strongly vouch for exceptional Tex Mex on the Riverwalk, I get the touristy urge. For the best Tex Mex near the Riverwalk, jump back up and read about the top three options just a short walk away. The food quality takes a big leap when you step a bit further!

If you’re dead set on Riverwalk dining, remember the food might not be top-notch. Still, a few places offer reasonable options. Yes, you’ll pay Riverwalk prices, but hey, eating by the water has its perks!

FAQs

What is the most popular part of the Riverwalk?

The most popular part of the Riverwalk is often considered to be the Paseo del Rio in San Antonio, Texas. This iconic urban waterway is famous for its picturesque scenery, charming riverside restaurants, and vibrant cultural events. Visitors frequently enjoy strolling along the scenic paths, taking boat tours, and exploring the historic districts that flank the river.

What is the most popular Tex-Mex dish?

Tacos, particularly beef or chicken tacos, are widely regarded as the most popular Tex-Mex dish. These flavorful handheld delights typically feature seasoned meat, fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes, and are often served with salsa or guacamole. Tacos have become synonymous with Tex-Mex cuisine and are beloved by people across the United States for their delicious combination of flavors and versatility.

What is the meaning of Tex-Mex?

Tex-Mex is a culinary term that refers to a fusion of Texan and Mexican cuisines. It emerged in the border regions of Texas and Mexico and incorporates elements from both culinary traditions. Tex-Mex cuisine often features bold flavors, the use of spices, and a variety of ingredients such as beef, cheese, beans, and tortillas. It has become a distinctive and popular style of food with its own unique identity.

What are traditional Tex-Mex foods?

Traditional Tex-Mex foods include dishes such as enchiladas, nachos, tamales, chili con carne, fajitas, and quesadillas. These dishes often showcase a combination of flavors and ingredients from both Texan and Mexican culinary traditions. Additionally, staples like tortillas, beans, cheese, and various types of chili peppers are commonly used in traditional Tex-Mex cooking, contributing to the rich and diverse tapestry of this regional cuisine.