It’s both a blessing and a curse to live in one of the burgeoning culinary capitals of the U.S.
The blessing is being able to get top tier food from around the world any time you want it. It’s a curse because our pants are getting tighter by the day, and it seemingly would take several lifetimes to get through all the deliciousness arrayed before us in San Antonio.
Though it’s firmly established as THE city for Tex-Mex, both in a sonic and culinary sense, San Antonio’s star is rising as a hotbed for culinary creativity in just about every cuisine one can think of — and the recent nods by Michelin, James Beard Awards, the New York Times, Texas Highways and Texas Monthly are all proof.
Though it’s hard to narrow it down in such a vast, innovative and delicious culinary landscape, the folks at Yelp have tried. According to their sheer number of glowing five-star reviews, here are the top 25 restaurants in San Antonio right now, according to Yelp.
1602 E. Houston St. #106, (210) 389-1584, magpie.us
“Omg a GEM of San Antonio!! The chef is such a creative genius! To start the toast was melt in your mouth perfect. I wanted to order a second but had to hold back for the rest of the food. The duck charcuterie was so flavorful, the pickled green beans were so good and a good compliment to the duck. The pasta was amazing. So flavorful and not too rich where you would get sick in a couple bites. The chicken dish was also delicious. The skin was crispy and the flavors were robust!
But the star is the butter cake. Holy cow. I’m coming back soon for this cake. That is the must!!!
Our server was very attentive to our needs and the restaurant was so warm and welcoming.
I’m coming back for sure!!” – Tracy H. Credit: Photo via Instagram / magpiesanantonio
1811 S Alamo St., (210) 942-4690, eatatcamp.com
“Each visit feels like a reward, a comforting ritual that never loses its magic.
And then there’s the aroma. The subtle, smoky perfume of mesquite drifts through the air and instantly transports me back to my grandfather’s ranch near Guadalajara, Jalisco. I can almost see him tending his wood-burning fogón, mesquite logs crackling as he worked his quiet culinary magic.
Great food can nourish your body, but great places like this also nourish your memories. This is more than just a restaurant–it’s a place where craft, flavor, and nostalgia meet. Highly recommended.” – Alejandro L. Credit: Courtesy Photo / Camp Outpost Co.
5999 De Zavala Road, Suite 123, (210) 257-0726, west.pelicanausa.com
“The fried chicken wings here are EPIC. Do yourself a favor and try them.” – Michael B. Credit: Instagram / pelicana_sa
834 Northwest Loop 410, Suite 106, goldfeatherbb.com
“Hands down by far the best restaurant I’ve eaten at since I’ve moved back to San Antonio. Food is amazing, service is superb. I will be going back as many times as I can.” – Jason R.
Photo via Instagram / goldfeatherbb
728 S. Alamo St., (210) 214-7555, lafritesa.com
“Small, intimate bistro with outstanding food and service. A great menu along with a daily fixed price 3 course menu. […] This restaurant is the best kept secret in San Antonio!” – Marty M. Credit: Photo via Instagram / lafritesatx
5011 Broadway, (210) 828-9669, cappysrestaurant.com
“One of the best restaurants in San Antonio. Excellent food and service always consistently great! Wonderful patio for brunch. The drinks are excellent. This is our go-to spot for a quick lunch, special dinner, or to take out of town guests.” – K S Credit: Christine Elizabeth
7300 Jones Maltsberger Road, (210) 667-2145, ida-claire.com
“It’s super-busy for brunch on the weekends, so I do recommend making a reservation. However, if you’re not in a hurry, you can just hang out in their lovely outdoor area, and quench your thirst with one of their tasty libations served from a super-cool airstream outside bar.” – Olga B. Credit: Photo via Instagram / idaclairesa
722 S Saint Mary’s St, (210) 223-1806, rosariossa.com
“The ambiance is always on point here. Food and service is always a great experience. Don’t miss out on their savory drinks!” – Crystal G.
Photo via Instagram /
rosariossa
104 Lanark Drive, (210) 654-8400, thebigbib.com
“Normally I don’t care for brisket because it’s often dry/tough; Big Bib had the best brisket I’ve ever had! The pulled pork is also amazing. A+ for the sweet potato casserole.” – Sean M. Credit: Facebook/The Big Bib
312 Pearl Parkway, Building 2, (210) 469-3743, brasseriemonchouchou.com
“This French bistro is really cute and located in the amazing Pearl district. We came here Valentine’s weekend and really enjoyed our experience. It’s a wonderful family friendly place. Loved the decor too! We came for brunch. And my husband especially enjoyed the escargot!” – Archana B.
Photo via Instagram / brasseriemonchouchou
2195 Northwest Military Highway, (210) 503-5121, clementine-sa.com
“This is a creative restaurant with a seasonally changing, fantastic menu. You won’t get food like this anywhere else in San Antonio. There is a menu option that is fixed price where the chef chooses the courses or you can order […] a la carte as you please.” – Madeleine H.
Photo via Instagram / clementine.sanantonio
226 W. Bitters Road, (210) 483-7600, maxandlouiesdiner.com
“Just discovered this gem today! Food was excellent with huge portions, service was top notch! And the restaurant is big with beautiful decor. Not to mention very clean! I got my very first egg cream. It is delicious and now I am hooked! Definitely coming back for more!!” – Kamaka C.
Photo via Instagram / maxandlouies
3505 Wurzbach Road #102, (210) 509-9999
“Insane flavors, fresh ingredients, colorful dishes. This could be one of the best Sichuan restaurants in town.” – Jillian H. Credit: Instgram / sichuaneats
926 S. Presa St., (210) 225-2547, foodisbliss.com
“Possibly the best restaurant in town. I haven’t stopped thinking about the Hamachi Tostadas. The octopus was some of the best I’ve ever had and was cooked to perfection. We reserved the chef’s table for a birthday and it was so cool seeing how the kitchen operates. Bliss is one of the few restaurants in SA with a chefs table available. We had the Chef’s tasting menu which is a 7 course meal. Everything we ate was incredible. I loved getting to try so many different things that I might not have ordered on my own. A wine pairing was available with the chefs menu, too.” – Shannon C. Credit: Photo by Bryan Rindfuss via Instagram / bliss_texas
318 E. Cevallos St., (210) 265-5933, lechedetigretx.com
“This place is a certified banger! The Peruvian style ceviche is absolutely heaven, the fish high quality + the regional style of “leche de tigre” sauces bring out such a bright flavor.
Came here in the evening, and the vibe is low light, sexy, and youthful yet mature. Come dressed.
Service was attentive – would recommend booking a reservation since spots can fill up quick.” – Den C. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
17627 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 103, (210) 899-4200, postinowinecafe.com
“This place is awesome for anyone who enjoys wine and crafted food to pair with it. I love customizing the bruschetta boards and adding some other appetizers to make a meal. The ambiance and décor at this location is fun with great seating combinations perfect for socializing. The service is always great as well with plenty of staff on hand to keep the food and wine flowing.” – Renee J. Credit: Photo via Instagram / postinowinecafe
200 E. Grayson St. #100, (210) 325-6007, ladinosatx.com
“This is one of the best restaurants in San Antonio if you ask me. Anyone who loves wine or Mediterranean eats will love this spot!” – Victor H. Credit: Photo via Instagram / ladino_sa
1546 Babcock Road, Suite 102 , (210) 664-5100, instagram.com/chefstable.satx
“Incredible. Best Mediterranean food I’ve had in Texas. Make sure to get the four cold appetizer with the babaga, hummus, red pepper and beet dips. That platter is worth a Michelin star.” – Lissa M.
15900 La Cantera Pkwy Ste 11200, (210) 448-8999, haywirerestaurant.com
“What an experience! My little sis and I met friends here for happy hour to catch up and enjoy some good food. Haywire sure didn’t disappoint- from the eye-catching space to the vibe to the food and service, everything was great.” – Ken Y. Credit: Kayla Enright
2919 N. Flores St., (210) 300-4728, outlawkitchens.com
“I highly recommend this place. The food is delicious it really tastes like a nice home made meal. The staff is also very nice and did a great job explaining the menu to us and everything. Please check it out!!” – Austin G. Credit: Photo via Instagram / outlawkitchens
906 E. Elmira St., (210) 314-7951, salsitatx.com
“The food is absolutely amazing!!! I highly recommended the tacos, but mostly the Birria Flautas! Those took me by surprise! The service is awesome, laid back and friendly! Come to celebrate with your friends or just for an afterwork night cap! The ambiance is excellent and relaxing!” – Gladys J. Credit: Facebook / Salsita Drinks & Tacos
239 E. Grayson St., (210) 910-5547, carriquitx.com
“If you’re looking for the heart of Texas on a plate, Carriqui is where you’ll find it. Nestled in a beautifully restored 1860s home, this South Texas gem effortlessly blends cowboy charm and caballero elegance to deliver an experience that feels like dining at the legendary King Ranch itself. It’s a celebration of Central and South Texas roots, steeped in tradition and brimming with authentic comfort food.” – Cedric D. Credit: Courtesy Photo / Carriqui
6702 San Pedro Ave, (210) 239-9457, tlahcokitchen.com
“Love it here! Súper encantada! The charro beans always hit the spot, I haven’t had one bad experience what so ever. My kids love it as well, coming from a Mexican household, the food definitely hits close to home.” Daniella M.
Photo via Instagram / tlahco.mk
602 Avenue A, (210) 819-4236, bestqualitydaughter.com
“Wow. This place not only did not disappoint, it overwhelmed with flavors, decor, style, and originality. First off, the thoughtful and clear design was impeccable. The wall treatment, and lighting were amazing. Our waitress was attentive, friendly, funny and made very good recommendations. The food was outstanding! We had the Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, Korean Corn Cheese Springrolls and the Curry Guisada Dan Dan. All were killer, well seasoned and flavor bombs. So happy we wandered in.” – John S. Credit: Nina Rangel
401 S. Alamo St., (210) 224-8800, siloelevatedcuisine.com/locations/nonna
“We love Nonna Osteria! Food is always consistent. Nice wine selection and excellent wait staff. The Gnocchi with parm is my absolute favorite appetizer. The tuna tartare appetizer is huge. Highly recommend when you have a hankering for a nice simple Italian inspired lunch or dinner.” – Hope A. Credit: Photo via Instagram / nonnaosteria
135 E. Commerce St., (210) 305-7075, tokyocowboytx.com
“Fantastic brunch! Great menu! The menu integrates Japanese and Texan flavors. The chicken and waffles were delicious. Great service. We ate on the terrace overlooking the river walk and it was a wonderful experience.” – Claire C. Credit: Courtesy Photo / Tokyo Cowboy