The centerpiece of downtown San Antonio, Texas, is the San Antonio Riverwalk. Tourists flock to the Riverwalk, which winds through the middle of downtown. The Riverwalk is lined with hotels, shops, bars, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Find the best restaurants on the Riverwalk in San Antonio using this list from a local.
He Works So I Travelcontent may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For full details, please read my full affiliate disclosure here.
San Antonio, also known as “The Alamo City,” is my hometown, so it is special in my heart.
It’s a beautiful city with deep cultural roots. The iconic architecture, fantastic food, and friendly people contribute to San Antonio’s popularity among tourists.
You will not find a city with better hospitality or friendlier people than San Antonio.
When you visit our beautiful city, you have many fabulous options for dining in the downtown area.
Some San Antonio Riverwalk restaurants include chain restaurants such as The Hard Rock Cafe, The Rainforest Cafe, and The County Line. But, I encourage you to try more authentic restaurants, including those with tables on the river walkway.
Luckily, many restaurants offer that experience.
Impossible to choose just one best restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio; I’ve given you many choices.
Check out my list for all the best restaurant choices for your next visit to The Alamo City.
RELATED POST: Do you need a place to stay while visiting San Antonio? Please read my post about How I Hotwire Amazing Hotels for the Best Deals to find a San Antonio Riverwalk hotel.
Jump Ahead to
Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio for Breakfast
Guenther House – King William Historic District – 205 E. Guenther St.
Although still on the Riverwalk, The Guenther House is in the historic King William District.
This breakfast spot is the furthest restaurant from the immediate downtown Riverwalk area, located 1.3 miles south of downtown. But, it is a stop on the City Sightseeing San Antonio Hop-On, Hop-Off bus pass. Scroll to the bottom of the post for more information on this tour.
The Guenther House, a restaurant, store, and museum, is housed at the Pioneer Flour Mills, a leader in flour, mixes, and baked goods since the mid-1800s.
Formally the residence of the Pioneer Mill founder, Carl Guenther, the house was restored in 1988 to become the restaurant you visit today.
The restaurant is a popular breakfast spot in San Antonio for tourists and locals. Expect a bit of a wait, especially on the weekends.
The restaurant serves breakfast all day, so you can enjoy it even if you get a late start to the day.
While in the area, consider taking a morning kayaking trip along the San Antonio Riverwalk before eating breakfast. It’s a great way to see parts of downtown from the water while getting some exercise.
For another option downtown, but not on the Riverwalk: La Panadería Bakery Café is located at 301 E Houston St.
La Panadería Bakery Café has the absolute best pastries in San Antonio.
The tequila almond croissant is delicious. Check the bakery out online or get there early because these mouthwatering morsels sell out quickly.
(Photo courtesy of La Panadería Bakery Café Facebook)
Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio for Brunch
Ambler Texas Kitchen – Located inside Hotel Contessa – 306 W Market
When looking for a fabulous brunch restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, head to Hotel Contessa’s riverside restaurant, Ambler Texas Kitchen.
Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The brunch menu includes typical breakfast fare, but their specialty, the Chicken & Waffle dish, is delicious.
In addition to the brunch menu, the specialty cocktail menu is outstanding. The Ambler favorite is The Riverwalk Sangria, made of red and white wine, citrus, and a floating popsicle.
The Ambler also serves fabulous coffee made daily with freshly ground coffee beans.
TRIP TIP: If you are not staying downtown, make a day trip to the Riverwalk. Park using Hotel Contessa’s valet, then eat at the Ambler. Ask the waitress to stamp your ticket, and your parking is free. This goes for locals as well.
Try The Box St. Social, located at 623 Hemisphere Blvd in Hemisphere Park, for another option downtown, but not on the Riverwalk. They have a fabulous brunch menu with many gluten-free and vegetarian choices.
Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for Mexican Food
Casa Rio – 430 E Commerce St
You cannot come to San Antonio and not try Mexican food. I may be a bit biased, but it is the absolute best.
There are many excellent, authentic Mexican food restaurants. Still, the best Mexican restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio goes to Casa Rio for its tasty food, affordable prices, and center stage along the river.
The iconic colorful umbrellas in many downtown San Antonio pictures belong to Casa Rio’s outdoor tables. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available, but you must ask for outside dining if you visit. The tables are a step away from the river.
Casa Rio does not accept reservations, so expect to wait. However, there are many tables, and there are usually mariachis playing close by for entertainment.
For another option downtown, also on the Riverwalk: Visit Ácenar Mexican Restaurant at 146 E Houston St.
Ácenar offers a more contemporary take on its design and menu.
It offers happy hour specials, a kid’s menu, and outdoor seating overlooking the Riverwalk.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for Tableside Guacamole
Boudro’s on the Riverwalk – 421 E Commerce St. Riverwalk level
There are so many delicious restaurants that choosing one is too difficult, especially for Mexican food.
If you want a restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio that offers a unique dining experience, head to Boudro’s on the Riverwalk and order the tableside guacamole.
For around $15, you can witness the freshest ingredients come together at your table.
For visitors unfamiliar with guacamole, it is a cold dip made with fresh avocados, citrus, cilantro, tomatoes, red onions, garlic, and jalapeno. It is delicious when it is served with freshly made warm tortilla chips.
Order a prickly pear margarita, and you will have an authentic San Antonio experience.
Boudro’s is also a top-rated steakhouse if you want to eat more than appetizers.
RELATED POST: If you visit San Antonio during the holidays, check out the post, Make Plans Now to See These San Antonio Christmas Lights, for a guide to the best holiday decorations throughout the city. The post also includes details on how to book a dinner river barge.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for Italian Food
Tre Trattoria – Located at The San Antonio Museum of Art – 200 W Jones Ave
San Antonio has impressive museums. One located along the Museum Reach of the Riverwalk is The San Antonio Museum of Art. Located just behind the museum, you will find the best Italian restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, Tre Trattoria.
Tre Trattoria is one of five restaurants in San Antonio owned by award-winning chef Jason Dady.
Tre Trattoria is a Tuscan-Italian family-style restaurant serving made-to-order pizza, house-made fresh pasta, and outstanding desserts.
I highly recommend starting with the pulled-to-order fresh mozzarella. It is to die for when eaten with warm bread.
Two of our main dish favorites are the Campanelle Bolognese and the Pizza Bianca.
The restaurant offers a large covered patio overlooking the Riverwalk and is open every day except for Mondays.
RELATED POSTS: To read more about things to do in San Antonio, check out A Spotlight on the Witte, San Antonio, and The Sunken Gardens, San Antonio: A Beautiful Japanese Tea Garden.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio for Barbecue
Smoke BBQ and Riverbar – 511 Villita St.
Smoke BBQ and Riverbar is the sister property to downtown’s popular Smoke BBQ and Skybar. Newly opened on the Riverwalk, Smoke BBQ and Riverbar offers the most extensive patio overlooking the Riverwalk. You can see the deck under the red canopy in the picture below.
It is just past the Arneson River Theater on the river’s bend.
The three-level outdoor patio serves authentic mouthwatering Texas BBQ. Order the barbecue plate with brisket and chicken or sausage and cream corn, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, or charro beans.
You’ll feel so full and be happy for the Riverwalk path to help you walk it off when you are done.
For another option downtown, but not on the Riverwalk: It is Texas, so one barbecue suggestion isn’t enough. Just two blocks away from the Riverwalk on 107 W Houston St. is another downtown favorite, Pinkerton’s BBQ.
Pinkerton’s, owned by a native Texan, has been featured on The Food Network and The Travel Channel and was recently named on Texas’s Top 50 BBQ Joints list.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for Steak & Seafood
Bohanan’s Prime Steaks & Seafood – 219 E Houston St
Not technically on the Riverwalk, but the best restaurant for steak and seafood, Bohanan’s Prime is just a block away.
(Photo courtesy of Bohanan’s – Facebook)
You will note there are no prices on the menu.
When we were much younger, my husband had a saying, “If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.”
As someone whose full-time job is as a teacher, this is one restaurant I have not personally dined at.
It receives rave reviews for its food and service. Even the locals will head downtown for Bohanan’s.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for a Taste of Texas
Lone Star Cafe – 237 Losoya
(Photo courtesy of Lone Star Cafe – Facebook)
For an authentic Texas menu, head over to the Lone Star Cafe. Entrees like hand-breaded chicken fried steak, jalapeno cheeseburgers, homemade queso, and homemade pecan pie are a small part of the menu.
The restaurant’s Texas-sized patio is lined with Texas flag patio umbrellas overlooking the Riverwalk.
(Photo courtesy of Lone Star Cafe – Facebook)
They say everything is bigger in Texas. That saying is especially true with the Lone Star Cafe’s giant 60 oz. margarita!
Ask about Lone Star Cafe’s lunch specials.
The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk for Cocktails
The Esquire Tavern – 155 E. Commerce St.
A visit to San Antonio would not be complete without stopping at the city’s oldest bar, The Esquire Tavern. Recently named the Top Bar in San Antonio by MySA Reader’s Choice poll, the bar is a city favorite.
TRIP TIP: Many places sell incredible frozen drinks, including margaritas, local beer, and cocktails. Feel free to carry these alcoholic beverages with you as you walk the beautiful Riverwalk. However, open containers of alcohol are not allowed on the street level.
The city of San Antonio loves its tourists and will happily welcome you to its Riverwalk.
Whether you are in San Antonio on vacation or are a resident, you will surely find a restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio that you will love.
Please save this post on Pinterest if you found it helpful.
Looking for Something to do in Downtown San Antonio?
There are so many things to do in downtown that I provided a guide for spending 2 days in San Antonio that you will want to check out next.
As you visit downtown, consider purchasing City Sightseeing San Antonio‘s Hop-On, Hop-Off 48 hours bus pass, a Riverwalk boat cruise, and a ticket to the Tower of the Americas for one low price.
The Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour offers 19 stops, including stops that will take you to the restaurants listed above.
- If heading to The Guenther House for breakfast, hop off at the King William historic district stop.
- A stop at the Pearl Brewery complex will give you more restaurant options and shopping.
- After a stop at the San Antonio Museum of Art, you can visit Tre Trattoria for lunch.
FAQs
Best Restaurants on the Riverwalk in San Antonio? ›
The Alamo
Though after 13 days Davy Crockett and his fellow Texas volunteers would lose the Battle of the Alamo to Mexican forces, their heroism remains an enduring symbol of Texas's fight for independence. As such, no trip to San Antonio would be complete without a stop at Texas's most visited historic landmark.
The Alamo
Though after 13 days Davy Crockett and his fellow Texas volunteers would lose the Battle of the Alamo to Mexican forces, their heroism remains an enduring symbol of Texas's fight for independence. As such, no trip to San Antonio would be complete without a stop at Texas's most visited historic landmark.
Alcoholic beverages are a big deal in San Antonio! Open containers are allowed on the sidewalks of the Riverwalk (not on the streets) so naturally, there are some amazing places in the area for dine-in or to-go drinks.
What should I wear to the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›Casual and dressy casual will get you into most places in San Antonio. Only the nicest restaurants require patrons to wear slacks or formal attire. Plan to pack layers if you visit during the spring, fall, or winter. Even in February the temperature can be in the mid-high 70s but at night drop into the 30s or 40s.
What movie was filmed at the Riverwalk San Antonio? ›The Getaway (1972)
After being released from prison in Huntsville through a deal with corrupt businessman Jack Beynon (Ben Johnson), Carter "Doc" McCoy (Steve McQueen) meets Jack at the San Antonio River Walk for a chat, before things get really ugly.
There are 3.51 miles of walks lining the banks of the river in the heart of the city. The pedestrian can step from the street to the river level and encounter trees, plants and flowing water.
Why can't you 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.
Why is it illegal to swim in the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›Not only is it illegal to swim in the San Antonio River, but water quality experts have warned for years about unsafe levels of fecal coliform, or E. coli. The bacteria, which lives in the intestines of people and animals, poses hazards to human health when swallowed.
Is the Riverwalk safe at night? ›The Riverwalk
Each year, over 500 people fall in the river. You should also avoid this area after dark because it is a very common place for muggings.
A: Technically the Riverwalk never closes. You can walk along it at any time, day or night. Of course the businesses on the Riverwalk do close at night. Most of the restaurants close around 10pm and the bars at 2am.
How long is the Riverwalk tour? ›
GO RIO's 35-minute San Antonio River Walk boat tour connects you to the city's culture, history, architecture, and timeless charm. Just trying to get from place to place? Look for the GO RIO Shuttle signs that are located along the San Antonio River Walk downtown and on the Museum Reach.
What is the cost for the San Antonio River Walk? ›How much does it cost to visit the River Walk? Admission to the River Walk is free.
What drinks is San Antonio known for? ›Chispa margaritas are a San Antonio staple, probably because they were born here. Refreshing enough to beat the Texas heat and tasty enough you could forget you've got booze in your cup, try not to chug this tasty tipple — it will sneak up on you.
What are 3 famous foods in Texas? ›Take a trip through the Lone Star State and sample classic dishes including pecan pie, chicken-fried steak, cowboy chili and plenty of barbecue.
What is special about the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›The river is not just an entertainment area for visitors and residents but also functioning waterway that funnels water through central San Antonio and the southern parts of the City and South Texas.
What is the new addition to the Riverwalk in San Antonio? ›A stunning new addition to the San Antonio River Walk is the city's newest Museum Reach landmark, the Thompson San Antonio and The Arts Residences at The Thompson.
How deep is the water on the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›the river depth varies from 2 to 24 feet.
Is there free parking at the Riverwalk? ›WHERE MAY I PARK TO VISIT THE RIVER WALK? There are over 2,000 parking meters, most of which are enforced 8AM-6PM, 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 after 6 PM.
Is it worth staying on the Riverwalk in San Antonio? ›If you're visiting San Antonio, then staying along the Riverwalk is an absolute must! There's just something special about this serene serpentine river canal with its palm trees, fun restaurants and bars, kissing bridges and other sites to see that create a magical ambiance unlike anywhere else in Texas.
Do you have to pay to go to the San Antonio River Walk? ›“Is the river walk free?...and how much Is it?” Yes, It is free. It is located in downtown San Antonio. There are entrances at street level.
How many people fall into the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›
Apparently 11 to 12. 580 in the last 5 years according to the press.
Can I carry at the Riverwalk? ›It is legal to carry your firearm concealed in both city parks and buses. It is also legal to carry in the convention center as long as there is no 30.06 sign posted. As for the Riverwalk and the Alamo, it is also fine to carry at both of them, however be wary of entering any bars on the Riverwalk that have a 51% sign.
Can you eat on a boat on the Riverwalk in San Antonio? ›Dining Cruises on the San Antonio Riverwalk
A river boat/barge configured for dining holds a maximum of 20 people, but most recommend 16 to 18 people for comfort. If you have questions about doing a dining or cocktail cruise, just send us an email by clicking here.
But aside from bars and backyards, where is it okay to relax with friends and a beer? Texas has no statewide ban on public drinking, but San Antonio is one of two dozen cities across the state that prohibits public consumption of alcohol.
Why is the Riverwalk water green? ›The river has been dyed green, and jokingly renamed the River Shannon, every year since 1968. The dye is eco-friendly and is always dispersed behind a barge that carries a bagpiper. According to Visit San Antonio, 25 gallons of dye will be spread during each event. St.
What is the problem with the San Antonio River? ›The San Antonio River's main pollution problem is E. coli bacteria that collect on hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete and wash into the river during storms.
Where not to stay in San Antonio? ›Some of the least safe neighborhoods in San Antonio are Wheatley Heights, Denver Heights, and Eastwood Village.
Can you walk with alcohol on the River Walk? ›Yes, you can walk around with alcohol on River Walk.
We're enthusiasts of beverages that enhance an already sweet location. That being said, we highly suggest you visit the Bier Garten directly East of The Alamo. You can grab a drink here and trek around the River Walk.
Free to the public | Hours 6 am - 11 pm.
Where is the most famous River Walk? ›1: Detroit International RiverWalk - Detroit, Michigan. The riverfront redevelopment in Detroit, a city with 14 miles of shoreline along the Detroit River, is one of the city's most exciting initiatives.
What is the most visited place in San Antonio? ›
1. Alamo. The Alamo is by far San Antonio's most famous attraction and is the most visited attraction in the state of Texas.
Is the San Antonio Riverwalk worth seeing? ›The riverwalk is a great place to stay and visit. The old Colorado river went through the centre of the city and after flooding a couple of time they dammed it and made it into a canal.
What is the number one riverwalk in the United States? ›Detroit — The Detroit Riverwalk is the best riverwalk in America, according to the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. This is the third year in a row the city's riverwalk has earned the title, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy said.
What is the best riverwalk in the US 2023? ›DETROIT (February 17, 2023) -- The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is excited to announce that the Detroit Riverwalk has been named the Best Riverwalk in America – three years in a row – by the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
How many people fall in the San Antonio Riverwalk? ›Apparently 11 to 12. 580 in the last 5 years according to the press.
What is the prettiest mission in San Antonio? ›San Antonio's “Queen of the Missions”
Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo is known as the “Queen of the Missions” because of its impressive size and condition. Despite being over 300 years old, the beautiful buildings are in a surprisingly good state – partially thanks to extensive restoration work in the 1930s.
The best time to visit San Antonio is from November to April, when the weather is comfortable and the hotel rates are lower. Summer sees the largest influx of tourists from in- and out-of-state.
What is the rich part of San Antonio? ›1. Olmos Park. The richest neighborhood in San Antonio is Olmos Park. Located only 4.3 miles from the city center, this area covers approximately 1.5 square miles and is home to roughly 2,200 people.
How long does it take to do River Walk? ›To walk the entire River Walk from one end to the other including the downtown area would likely take five to six hours.
Where do celebrities stay in San Antonio? ›The St Anthony, the most beloved of all San Antonio luxury hotels, has been restored to the opulence that made her storied halls the haunt of politicos, princesses, and A-list celebrities.
How long is the Riverwalk downtown? ›
Driving. The San Antonio River Walk is 15 miles long and flows through about 5 miles of downtown San Antonio. While there is no specific River Walk address, you can use the Shops at Rivercenter located on the River Walk as your GPS guide: 849 E. Commerce Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205.
Is it safe to walk the Riverwalk at night? ›The Riverwalk
Each year, over 500 people fall in the river. You should also avoid this area after dark because it is a very common place for muggings. If you must be down there after dark, you should stay in highly populated areas and don't go alone.