Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (2024)

When you visit San Antonio, you may think the San Antonio Riverwalk restaurants could be a tourist trap. However, the San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants are some of the best and most happening spots in the city for foodies looking to explore with their tastebuds. If you’re looking for a great place to eat in San Antonio, you can’t go wrong with the restaurants on the Riverwalk. The San Antonio Riverwalk is a beautiful and historic attraction that runs along the San Antonio River, amazing views day or night, cultural events, and of course, mouth watering food. Whether you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, steak, seafood, or asian fusion, you’ll find it on the Riverwalk. Here are some of the best San Antonio Riverwalk restaurants you must try.

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Table of Contents

1. Casa Rio

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (1)

Casa Rio is the oldest restaurant on the Riverwalk, dating back to 1946. It serves authentic Mexican food in a colorful and festive setting. Casa Rio was the first to take advantage of the beautiful scenery of the San Antonio River at its doorstep. The colorful umbrellas can be seen on postcards and are iconic to San Antonio. You can enjoy your meal on the patio overlooking the river, or inside the cozy dining room. Some of the specialties include enchiladas, fajitas, tacos, and burritos. Don’t forget to try their famous margaritas and sopapillas for dessert. It is a favorite for those looking for Tex Mex.

Address: 430 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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2. Boudro’s on the Riverwalk

Boudro’s is a Texas bistro that offers a fine dining experience on the Riverwalk. The menu features dishes made with fresh and local ingredients, such as blackened prime rib, mesquite grilled shrimp, and smoked chicken and roasted poblano quesadillas. You can also order their signature guacamole, which is prepared tableside with fresh avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.

Address: On The Riverwalk Level, 421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

3. Tokyo Cowboy

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (2)

Want a unique and fresh restaurant on the San Antonio Riverwalk? Look no further than the eclectic and yummy Tokyo Cowboy. As soon as I saw the website’s bold statement where “southern comfort meets japanese street food” I knew I had to check out this new restaurant on the San Antonio Riverwalk. From the sushi handrolls, to unique twists on Southern classics like the Dashi Corn Waffle, it was a delight to try the surprising mix of food and culture at Tokyo Cowboy.

Address: 135 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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4. Dorrego’s

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (3)

Dorrego’s is located at the Hotel Valencia Riverwalk and offers Argentinian inspired cuisine. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With a warm atmosphere and amazing hospitality this is definitely a great choice. There is also live music here on the weekends in the lobby which carries into the restaurant making a nice atmosphere. Dorrego’s on the Riverwalk is known for there meat and I had to try the beef tenderloin. It was cooked to perfection and the sides as well as dessert were really yummy here as well. So be sure to save room!

Address: 150 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205

5. Rio Rio Cantina

Rio Rio Cantina is a fun and lively Tex-Mex restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the Riverwalk. You can enjoy dishes such as huevos rancheros, nachos, enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, and more. You can also order from their daily specials menu that features street tacos made with fresh tortillas and toppings. Rio Rio also has a tequila bar called Naked Iguana that offers a variety of drinks and happy hour deals.

Address: 421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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6. Ambler Texas Kitchen + co*cktails

I really enjoyed dining at the Ambler, an upscale restaurant located at the Hotel Contessa. It was located in the perfect spot to enjoy a river parade on the San Antonio Riverwalk. The chef here has created an amazing culinary experience from breakfast tacos, to Texas brisket as well as a great co*cktail bar. It is one of the best restaurants on the San Antonio Riverwalk and perfect for larger groups. Ambler also offers bar bites, a happy hour 3 pm- 5pm, and live music Thursday – Sunday making it a place to go on the riverwalk.

Address: 306 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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7. Ocho

If you are looking for an instagram aesthetic dining experience check out Ocho at Hotel Havana. This may not only be one of the most beautifully designed, but als one of the best restaurants on the San Antonio Riverwalk. A mixture of Cuban, Mexican, and Texas cuisine will have your mouthwatering, plus you can enjoy the view from this San Antonio rooftop that is located in a glass conservatory. Ocho is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night bites so great to check out during your visit to San Antonio.

Address:1015 Navarro St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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8. Chart House Restaurant

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (4)

Chart House Restaurant is located at the top of the Tower of the Americas,a 750-foot landmark that offers panoramic views of the city.The restaurant specializes in seafood and steaks,such as crab cakes,lobster tail,and prime rib.You can also enjoy their signature desserts,such as hot chocolate lava cake and cheesecake lollipops.Chart House Restaurant is a great place to celebrate or impress your date, but also great to hang out with friends with their happy hour menu. Plus you get the highest view from this 365 degree rotating restaurant!

Address: 739 E César E. Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205

9. Boiler House

Boiler House is located inside the original boiler room of the Pearl Brewery,a historic complex that has been transformed into a culinary destination.The restaurant serves Texas cuisine with a twist, such as bacon-wrapped quail, smoked brisket mac and cheese,and grilled pork chop with apple chutney.You can also enjoy their craft co*cktails and their live music events. They also offer a happy hour Monday through Frida 2 pm- 6 pm, and Thursday 2 pm- 10 pm.

Address: next to Hotel Emma, 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 3, San Antonio, TX 78215

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10. Zocca

Zocca is anItalian restaurant on the Riverwalk that offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere. The menu features classic dishes from different regions of Italy, such as gnocchi, lasagna, ravioli, and osso buco. You can also try their wood-fired pizzas and their homemade desserts. Zocca also has a full bar with co*cktails, beers, and wines. They also have a brunch menu Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 3pm.

Address: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

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These are just some of the best San Antonio Riverwalk restaurants. The Riverwalk has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience. You’ll love the food, the service, and the ambiance of these restaurants. So, what are you waiting for? Book your table today and enjoy the best of San Antonio on the Riverwalk.

Check out my San Antonio Travel Guide Vlog Below!

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (5)
Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay (2024)

FAQs

Top 10 Best San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – Travels of Sarah Fay? ›

The most famous stretch of the Riverwalk is the loop between San Fernando Cathedral & Market Street adjacent to the Alamo. Find the tourist's dream lineup: Joe's Crab Shack, Boudro's, Dave & Buster's, and Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse.

What is the best section of the River Walk in San Antonio? ›

The most famous stretch of the Riverwalk is the loop between San Fernando Cathedral & Market Street adjacent to the Alamo. Find the tourist's dream lineup: Joe's Crab Shack, Boudro's, Dave & Buster's, and Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse.

What is the first restaurant on the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

Opened in 1946, Casa Rio is the oldest restaurant on the River Walk and was modeled after the very first true Tex-Mex restaurant in the entire country.

What is the busiest area of San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

What to do at night at San Antonio River Walk? San Antonio River Walk is especially lively after dark, with its busiest section located between Alamo Plaza and West Market Street.

Is it safe to walk the San Antonio Riverwalk at night? ›

Is It Safe to Walk Along the San Antonio Riverwalk at Night? The San Antonio authorities take the city's safety very seriously and the Riverwalk is no exception. The area is well-secured and patrolled by security personnel to ensure maximum safety for the visitors.

Can you drink alcohol while walking San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

You can drink in public in San Antonio, as long as you know where to do it. You're allowed open containers anytime on the River Walk but not on the streets above.

Where is the heart of the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

A: The main portion of the Riverwalk is located in downtown San Antonio. It flows from the north of downtown, through downtown and then exits and flows through Southtown and the King William Historic District.

What is the famous walk in San Antonio called? ›

The downtown loop of the famed San Antonio Riverwalk, or Paseo del Rio, is a 2 1/2 mile stretch of beautifully landscaped waterfront that features many of San Antonio's most spectacular hotels, restaurants, night clubs, bars, shopping centers and businesses.

How far apart is the Alamo and River Walk? ›

“How far apart is the riverwalk and the alamo?” Across the street from the front of the Alamo, next to the San Antonio Visitor's Center, are a set of stairs that lead down from the street to the Riverwalk. Helpful? At a leisurely pace, with stops for window shopping, no more than 10 minutes.

What movie was filmed at the River Walk San Antonio? ›

The San Antonio Riverwalk was used in The Getaway, when "Doc" McCoy (Steve McQueen) meets Jack Beynon (Ben Johnson) at the Riverwalk for a chat with the corrupt businessman. In Selena, Chris and Selena celebrate their marriage during a romantic walk along popular tourist attraction.

What is the oldest tavern on the River Walk? ›

Oldest Bar OnThe River Walk

The Esquire Tavern opened in 1933 to celebrate the end of Prohibition and has been a beloved San Antonio watering hole ever since, with a short hiatus from 2006 to 2011. The Esquire is dark, cool, redolent with history, and serves cold, cold beer, swanky co*cktails, and excellent food.

What is the oldest known restaurant in San Antonio? ›

Now, 100 years old, Schilo's is the oldest operating restaurant in San Antonio.

What is the best month to go to San Antonio, Texas? ›

Generally, the best times to visit San Antonio are spring and fall, when the weather is warm (but not scorching hot) and the city's entertainment schedule is in full swing. Try an April break for the best weather and the chance to attend the city's Fiesta or visit in October to avoid the occasional spring downpours.

How long should I spend on the River Walk in San Antonio? ›

A full day should give you plenty of time to explore the Riverwalk and downtown area. The downtown area is pretty compact and very walkable. You can also use the downtown trolley system to get around if you don't want to walk.

What is the number one riverwalk in the United States? ›

DETROIT - The people have spoken and the Detroit Riverwalk is the top-ranked riverwalk in the entire country. It just won the 2023 USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards contest and it's not the first time. More than three and a half million people stroll up and down the Detroit Riverwalk each year.

What is special about San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

The downtown loop of the famed San Antonio Riverwalk, or Paseo del Rio, is a 2 1/2 mile stretch of beautifully landscaped waterfront that features many of San Antonio's most spectacular hotels, restaurants, night clubs, bars, shopping centers and businesses.

Why is it illegal to swim in the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

A high level of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the river indicates fecal contamination that poses hazards to human health when water is ingested. It is no surprise then that E. coli is the key pollutant for assessing the grade for the Swimming Standard.

How long is the River Walk in San Antonio? ›

The River Walk is 15 miles long and flows through approximately five miles of downtown San Antonio. As such, there is not a single address. For GPS purposes, use the address for the Shops at Rivercenter, located directly on the River Walk in the heart of downtown, at 849 E.

Is there free parking at the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›

River Walk Parking

There are over 2,000 parking meters, most enforced 8 am - 6 pm, Mon-Sat. Parking is free outside of these hours. Parking is free in city-run parking garages and lots during “Downtown Tuesday,” which is available on most Tuesdays from 5 pm - 2 am.

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