Hey, ya’ll! Planning on taking a trip to dear ol’ San Antone? Buckle up pork chop because I’m about to take you on a culinary adventure of what to eat in San Antonio!

As a Latina solo female traveler who loves exploring new places with my dog, I can’t wait to share the culinary gems of this amazing city. From mouth-watering puffy tacos to gourmet neapolitan-style pizza, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or a fun weekend with friends, this guide will help you discover the best places to eat, ensuring your taste buds are as satisfied as your wanderlust. So, in other words… Let’s get forked! 

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Exploring San Antonio’s Culinary Scene

The Heart of Texas Cuisine

San Antonio is a city that wears its rich cultural heritage on its sleeve. Known as the “Culinary Capital of Texas,” San Antonio boasts a culinary scene shaped by its deep Mexican roots, Southern influences, and an ever-growing array of international flavors.

A Fusion of Flavors

From traditional Tex-Mex staples like puffy tacos and cheese enchiladas to innovative dishes that blend Asian curry with Texas barbecue, the city’s restaurants offer a fusion of flavors that will delight any foodie. Whether you’re craving the comfort of classic San Antonio food or eager to try something new and adventurous, this city has it all.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

What makes San Antonio’s food scene truly special is its ability to cater to all tastes and preferences. With an array of dining options ranging from cozy local spots to upscale eateries, every meal becomes an experience to remember. The city is also home to an impressive list of popular San Antonio restaurants that have garnered national attention for their creativity and food quality.

Community and Culture

Eating in San Antonio is more than just a meal; it celebrates community and culture. Many restaurants proudly use local ingredients, and the city’s farmers market are a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the Pearl District or strolling along the River Walk, you’ll find that food is an integral part of the San Antonio experience.

Map Of The Best Restaurants in San Antonio

This map was made with Wanderlog, a road trip planner app on iOS and Android

Classic San Antonio Food You HAVE To Try! 

Puffy Tacos

No trip to San Antonio is complete without trying puffy tacos. These beloved Tex-Mex treats are deep-fried corn tortillas that puff up into crispy, airy shells, holding a variety of delicious fillings like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or flavorful beans.

The puffy taco is a taste of San Antonio’s culinary heritage. Below you’ll find a list of the best restaurants to eat this South Texas cuisine.

Where To Get Puffy Tacos in San Antonio 

1. Alamo Cafe

The Alamo Cafe is among fan favorites for a good reason… After all, they’ve proudly served San Antonio for the last 40 years! Now that’s a long time! Their popular puffy taco plate includes rice, beans and fresh guacamole with two corn masa tacos, hand-pressed and lightly fried before being filled with seasoned or fajita-style chicken or beef, tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese. 

2. Chela’s Tacos

Another favorite spot for puffy tacos in San Antonio is Chela’s Tacos. The best food often has quality ingredients and Chela’s delivers! Their fried puffy tacos are filled with your choice of meat and pico de gallo. 

3. Henry’s Puffy Tacos

Henry’s Puffy Tacos is the brother restaurant to Ray’s. That being said, these brothers perfected the puffy taco and have sold 15 million of them since! They’re stuffed with guacamole, bean and cheese, shredded chicken and fajita meat.

4. Ray’s Drive Inn 

Ray’s Drive Inn claims their the original location of puffy tacos. Their tacos come filled with traditional beef or chicken to bean, carne guisada, and shrimp. Each taco comes filled with lettuce and tomato and are available in packs of one to four tacos.

5. Pete’s Tako House

At Pete’s Tako House you’ll find a diverse menu of puffy tacos.  You can have them be crispy, soft or fried and puffy at Pete’s. You can choose two puffy tacos filled with ground beef or shredded chicken. They’re served topped with lettuce, tomato and cheese plus a side of Spanish rice and your choice of beans.

Breakfast Tacos

San Antonians take breakfast seriously. These morning staples are a canvas for creativity, typically filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, savory chorizo, or tender potatoes, all wrapped in a warm flour or corn tortilla. Whether you’re an early riser or need a late-morning pick-me-up, these tacos are sure to start your day off right.

Where To Eat Breakfast Tacos in San Antonio

6. Con Huevos Tacos

Your tastebuds will be singing at Con Huevos Tacos which is located on the east side. Each of the specialty breakfast tacos are named after women, like the Irma, which starts with a homemade flour tortilla filled with scrambled egg mixed in salsa verde, Oaxaca cheese, avocado, and cilantro. 

7. El Milagrito Café

The name of the restaurant directly translates to, “the little miracle cafe.” At El Milagrito, you can find a breakfast taco menu featuring vegetarian options and even chilaquiles. 

8. Garcia’s Mexican Food 

Founded in 1962, Garcia’s Mexican Food is the best way to start your morning. If it’s your first time in San Antonio, you can knock out two birds with one stone by trying their brisket taco! It comes fully stuffed with some of the city’s best barbecue brisket.

9. Tacos El Rey

Tacos El Rey recently won the tournament-style Bean & Cheese Battle Royale so you know you’re in for the good stuff! The highlight of their menu is the chorizo and bean with melted cheese and the machacado con huevo, which features shredded beef mixed with diced jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, and egg.

10. The Little Taco Factory

My mom and I found this awesome hole in the wall while traveling around San Antonio. The Little Taco Factory has great service and is only open until 2pm. Their dining room reminds me of restaurants you’ll find in Mexico and is super homey. Try their potato and cheese breakfast taco. 

Texas Barbecue

When it comes to Texas barbecue, San Antonio does it right. The city’s best barbecue joints are renowned for their slow-cooked, oak-smoked meats that are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. From melt-in-your-mouth brisket to fall-off-the-bone short ribs, the barbecue here is a carnivore’s dream. Pair your meal with classic menu items like creamy potato salad and tangy coleslaw for the full experience.

Where To Eat Texas Barbecue in San Antonio

11. 2 M Smokehouse BBQ

2 M Smokehouse BBQ sells meat by the pound and even family packs. Try their popular sides like Mexican sweet corn and Chicharoni Macaroni.

12. Two Bros BBQ Market 

Two Bros BBQ Market smokes their meats using Texas Oak and hardwood charcoal. Their meats are sold by the half-pound. I also recommend trying the Smoked Stuffed Jalapeños and Smokey Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bro Chips.

13. Smoke Shack

Smoke Shack is a hotspot across from the Witte Museum. Crowds file in throughout the day.  Don’t forget to add the green beans and sweet potatoes as your sides!

14. BBQ Life by Chris 

BBQ Life By Chris  is destination spot for San Antonio.  The tender and juicy brisket and pork ribs offer just the right amount of smoke, and sandwiches are satisfying. Try their tangy macaroni salad as well!

15. Curry Boys BBQ

I would describe this Curry Boys BBQ as new Asian-American cuisine. They have their own menu that is truly unqiue. 

This innovative establishment combines the smoky goodness of Texas barbecue with the rich, complex flavors of Asian curry. From cold chili garlic noodles to oak-smoked brisket, every dish is a flavorful adventure.

Cheese Enchiladas

Cheese enchiladas are a Tex-Mex classic that you simply must try while in San Antonio. These savory enchiladas are typically filled with gooey melted cheese, smothered in a rich, chili-infused sauce, and baked to perfection. This comforting dish is a testament to the flavorful, hearty cuisine that San Antonio is famous for.

16. Blanco Café

Blanco Cafe has great Mexican food, but you gotta try their cheese enchiladas! They’ve been voted the best enchiladas in San Antonio! 

17. La Margarita Restaurant & Oyster Bar

La Margarita Restaurant is home to the original sizzling fajitas but also have some great enchiladas! Run by la Familia Cortez, they invite you to sip their famous margarita, La Magnifica, snack on a plate of fresh seafood appetizers, or enjoy a delicious dinner of classic Mexican cuisine.

Best Food Tours in San Antonio 

Not sure where to start wih the latest food and greatest places? No worries! I recommend you do a food tour that will help you discover San Antonio’s culinary delights! 

I also recommend going to the Texas Hill Country for the best wineries and unique food scene! 

Where To Eat on The San Antonio Riverwalk

18. Little Rhein Prost Haus

Nestled on the edge of the historic La Villita Village, Little Rhein Prost Haus is the oldest two-story building with brick walls in Bexar County. They offer live music and an extensive beer menu. Their dishes are German-inspired and they also just added a Sunday brunch menu.

19. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar

Iron Cactus is one of the best Mexican restaurants on the San Antonio Riverwalk. If you’re looking for late night eats and good vibes, they’re open until 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays. They also have happy hour from 3pm to 6pm Monday through Friday.

20. Biga San Antonio Riverwalk

If you’re looking for fine-dining on the San Antonio Riverwalk with an impressive wine list, then come to Biga! Try their season three course fixed menu and indulge in some New American cuisine. 

Best Bakeries in San Antonio 

21. Bakery Lorraine

Start your culinary journey at Bakery Lorraine, a charming spot known for its delectable baked goods and pastries. This delightful bakery, located in the historic Pearl District, offers everything from classic croissants to innovative seasonal treats. They’re most famous for their macaroons which come in 12 creative different flavors. 

22. Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

For a taste of France in San Antonio, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou is the place to be. This elegant brasserie is a great place to celebrate a special occasion.

Their menu filled with classic French dishes, an extensive wine list, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The au gratin potatoes here are a must-try, providing a rich, creamy complement to any meal.

23. Panifico Bake Shop

Hands down Panifico Bake Shop has the best conchas in the city. My compliments to the pastry chef because there’s nothing I love more than indulging in delicious Mexican sweets with a glass of cold milk for breakfast.
And in case you didn’t know… Yes, I am half Mexican and I’m always looking for the best Mexican cuisine outside of Mexico. 

Best Carribean Cuisine in San Antonio

24. Momma Luv’s Soul & Caribbean Food

Next, head over to Momma Luv’s for a taste of the Caribbean right in the heart of San Antonio. They offer a vibrant menu featuring jerk chicken, plantains, and other Caribbean delights. This spot is a must-visit for its bold flavors and unique twist on traditional dishes.

25. Jerk Shack

Chef Nicola Blaque’s Jerk Shack is another standout, offering authentic Jamaican flavors that have won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Chef Blaque is known for mouth-watering jerk chicken, tender short ribs, and flavorful hush puppies.

The Jerk Shack has quickly become a beloved spot in the city’s food scene. Don’t miss their fried chicken, which is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with Jamaican spices.

Best Asian Food in San Antonio

26. Jinya Ramen

San Antonio’s food scene is wonderfully diverse, and its Asian cuisine offerings are a testament to this. For those craving the best ramen, look no further than places like Jinya Ramen, where you can slurp up steaming bowls of savory, umami-rich noodles.

27. Thai Dee Restaurant 

If green curry is more your speed, Thai Dee Restaurant serves up a perfect balance of spice and creaminess that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. Try their $13 lunch specials from 12pm to 2:30pm. They also offer takeout orders. 

Restaurants in San Antonio You HAVE To Try 

28. Cappyccino’s

Honestly, writing this post has made me super hungry. San Antonio is one of the most creative cities of gastronomy. I had to add Cappyccino’s to the list for their delicious sticky toffee pudding.

They’re part of the Lawton family of restaurants serving casual favorites like wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and soups. Since 1973, they have maintained a reputation for warm hospitality, excellent service, and the best regional cuisine.

29. Pharm Table

Pharm Table offers a health-conscious take on Latin American cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients. I hear their avocado chocolate mousse and mesquite bean ice cream sandwich are amazing! 

30. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

For a taste of Italy, Dough Pizzeria Napoletana serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh, high-quality ingredients that will make you feel like you’re dining in Naples. Their charcuterie board is perfect for sharing, making it a great spot for a cozy dinner with friends.

31. Southerleigh Fine Food And Brewery

If you’re looking for a Galveston-style shrimp boil, then Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery is the perfect place! They’re located in The Pearl close to Hotel Emma. 

San Antonio is truly a culinary gem, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect its diverse cultural heritage and innovative spirit. As you navigate this vibrant food scene, remember that each meal is not just about great food but also about experiencing the community and culture of San Antonio. So, gather your friends, make some new ones, and savor every bite of this culinary adventure.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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