After compiling lists of the 100 best bars in San Antonio for the past two years, the Current has slimmed its 2023 list down to half as many.

Why? Certainly not because of a dearth of worthy drinking spots. They keep proliferating as the Alamo City grows, creeping into new parts of town and switching hands as new owners with creative ideas try their hand in the business.

No, we decided to make 50 the magic number this year to give the list more exclusivity. Nothing wrong with 100, but with 50, we had to make hard choices, including leaving some cherished longtime favorites off the list and passing over a few new and hip nightspots.

In other words, there may be some painful omissions, but you, dear reader, can feel assured that we’re presenting a list of watering holes that are truly exceptional and worthy of exploration.

Keep in mind that this is a snapshot in time. As with all lists of its type, the makeup could change if we redid it next week. If you don’t see your favorite spot, relax and remember it may well make the cut next year. If you see a place you can’t stand, hey, it’s a subjective process. Besides, there’s always the risk the exposure would bring a flood of losers who ruin the essence of your favorite haunt.

What we can assure you is that we had a blast assembling this list, and that it’s representative of San Antonio’s unique, diverse and ever-evolving nightlife scene.

Cheers!

Reviews written by Nina Rangel, Sanford Nowlin, Bryan Rindfuss, Travis E. Poling and Michael Karlis.

1. 2015 Place This unpretentious off-the-Main Strip LGBTQ+ hangout remains a favorite thanks to its strong and affordable drinks, neighborhood bar feel and relaxing patio vibes. There’s also a DJ, a decent sound system and a small dance floor, not to mention expected diversions such as pool tables and darts. The 2015’s charm is that’s a little off the beaten path while being just close enough to the Main Street scene. Someone can easily travel between the two, depending on whether they want to crank up the volume or turn it down a notch. 2015 San Pedro Ave., (210) 733-3365, 2015-place.business.site. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
Credit: Courtesy Photo / A Perfect Day
Bang Bang Bar 119 El Mio St., (210) 320-1187, thebangbangbartx.com. Bang Bang Bar fills a role as a neighborhood dive that also attracts a music-loving crowd. Cozy seating abounds thanks to vintage chairs and couches, and a side room offers video games and Skee-Ball. There’s a solid beer and liquor selection, but the bar also is known for some of its over-the-top drinks. Bartenders are constantly creating seasonal tipples such as the Pick Me Up Buttercup with vanilla vodka, Kahlua, salted caramel, fresh-brewed espresso and sea-salt foam. Bang Bang Bar is co-owned by out lesbian Phanie Diaz, drummer for legendary local punk band Girl in a Coma. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
Credit: Michael Karlis
5. Bar America This spot has stood the test of time, having served San Antonio for the past 80-plus years. Nestled conveniently in the downtown-abutting end of Southtown, Bar America continues to thrive because it’s the perfect place to grab post-dinner drinks or a quick bite after a visit to nearby art galleries. Folks stopping in should definitely try one of the bar’s puro San Antonio drinks, such as the Chamoy Shot or the Raspa — made with coconut rum, Big Red and pickle juice. 723 S. Alamo St., (210) 281-5945, facebook.com/baramericasatx. Credit: Michael Karlis
6. Bar at Bohanan’s The Bar at Bohanan’s is a frequent backup plan for people who don’t have a reservation for the upstairs Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood. No, it’s not quite the same as a full steakhouse experience, but access to excellent small bites and some of the steakhouse menu will leave most folks plenty satisfied. Beyond that, the bar is a destination for thoughtfully conceived cocktails, a curated beer and wine selection and some of the city’s best bar staff. The legacy of the late Sasha Petraske, a well-known bartender and original advisor to the bar, is carried on with attention to detail. Experience live jazz 7-10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. 219 E. Houston St., #275, (210) 472-2202, bohanans.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
Credit: Chris Perez
8. Bar Ludivine It didn’t take long for this relative newcomer to the Southtown scene to find its stride. Decorated with eclectic furniture and funky light fixtures, Bar Ludivine feels chic yet homey, just like the neighborhood it serves. And that’s intentional, according to owner Mike Abad, who told the Express-News he was aiming to make the space feel like the interior of one of the historic mansions in the nearby King William Historic District. Indeed, Bar Ludivine feels like a much hipper version of Cheers with its neighborhood clientele and welcoming vibe. Take a pick from five specialty cocktails that rotate seasonally and stop by for karaoke on Mondays and Fridays if you want to show off your golden throat. 1014 S. Presa St., (210) 908-9209, facebook.com/barludivine. Credit: Michael Karlis
9. Bar Mon Ami Alamo Heights-area drinkery Bar Mon Ami has stood the test of time by positioning itself as a spot that takes its cocktails seriously — and not much else. From its marble bar top to a larger-than-life red neon sign that breaks down the recipe for a classic Negroni, this place exudes the kind of vibes you hope for on a first date: sexy, fun and quirky enough to warrant a second encounter. Try classic cocktails such as the Aviation or Vieux Carré or something more modern from Mon Ami’s menu of signature tipples and you may find yourself among the faithful supporters of this hidden gem. 4901 Broadway, (210) 701-0577, barmonami.com. Credit: Nina Rangel
Credit: Courtesy Photo / Beethoven Maennerchor
Credit: Michael Karlis
12. The Bonham Exchange With a nod to Nirvana’s 1992 classic, the Bonham Exchange has adopted “Come As You Are” as an unexpected social-media catchphrase. Rather than a request to show up in grungy flannels, the message is an invitation for all walks to let loose in one of the Alamo City’s most storied pleasure palaces. Opened in 1981 in the shell of a 19th-century German athletic club, the Bonham helped pen the script for gay nightlife in San Antonio — first hosting concerts by new wave icons then quickly winning over a devoted following that’s become increasingly mixed over the decades. Encompassing multiple dance floors, an expansive back patio and an upstairs ballroom that hosts world-class drag shows, the local landmark continues to stir up a wild melting pot fueled by wallet-friendly cocktails and party anthems that span the eras. 411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com. Credit: Julián P. Ledezma
Credit: Michael Karlis
14. Casa Hernan The latest culinary installment from local chef Johnny Hernandez, Casa Hernán offers an extensive selection of agave spirits, hand-crafted cocktails and botanas inside a vibrant Southtown location. Previously used as a specialized space for weddings and private dinners, the venue opened as Casa Hernán Cantina earlier this year, boasting the chef’s collection of Mexican art, blown-glass light fixtures and bold color schemes. The spot recently launched Sunday brunch, replete with mimosa flights along with hearty eats such as menudo and tamales Texanos with chile con carne, crema and queso fresco. 411. E. Cevallos, (210) 827-2235, casahernan.com. Credit: Nina Rangel
15. Cellar Mixology Behind a secret door in the basement of St. Paul Square Spanish restaurant Toro Kitchen and Bar, you’ll find the aptly named Cellar Mixology. The speakeasy-style nightclub is happening on the weekends and has a limited capacity, so it’s a good idea to arrive early. Beyond the clandestine vibes, guests are drawn by the exacting bar professionals who are aces at shaking up the Cellar’s specialty cocktails. Watch them play with liquid nitrogen and engage in the latest molecular mixology as they craft liquid works of art. And don’t expect to select your tipple from a tiny cardstock menu either. The Cellar’s list of selections is more like a book in which each cocktail tells its own story. The most popular drink in the tome is the El Diablito, a cocktail honoring lust. 1142 E. Commerce St., (210) 463-5386, cellarmixology.com. Credit: Michael Karlis
Credit: Sanford Nowlin
17. Cootey’s Tavern This North Star-area neighborhood joint has been slinging no-nonsense drinks and casual atmosphere since 1969. From pool to darts, live trivia to karaoke, Cootey’s offers plenty of activities to occupy your time while you swig from a longneck or any one of the daily specials, including $4 whiskey. It won’t be long before you’re pulled into a conversation with one of the regulars. When you’re looking for easygoing vibes and quality people watching, Cootey’s is a safe bet that continues to draw a devoted Alamo City following. 8318 Jones Maltsberger Road, #128, (210) 342-4998, cooteystavern.com. Credit: Nina Rangel
18. The Dakota East Side Ice House Opening a contemporary ice house in a quickly gentrifying historic neighborhood might sound like a slippery slope, but owner Kent Oliver did just that with the Dakota. The gamble paid off in a big way. Situated in a former convenience store in the shadow of the Alamodome, the East Side haunt is just five years young but conjures old spirits with vintage photos sourced from the surrounding ‘hood. That level of thoughtfulness is reflected in the Dakota’s eclectic programming — which includes both bellydancing and drag shows — and an oft-Instagrammed welcome sign that reminds guests to “Just Be Nice, Dammit!” Balancing out the Dakota’s selection of beer, wine and frozen libations is a solid menu of bar fare — including a Texas Monthly-approved pork queso — that can be enjoyed in the funkily appointed interior or at picnic tables on the spacious patio. 433 S. Hackberry St., (210) 375-6009, thedakotasa.com. Credit: Nina Rangel
19. Double Standard The group behind San Antonio foodie havens Hot Joy, Barbaro and Little Death began serving oysters, steaks and high-caliber cocktails from this timeless-feeling space in 2022, but it’s always so packed, you’d think it just opened. Named for its bar philosophy — “where doubles are standard,” get it? — this tavern occupies the 3,000-square-foot space that formerly housed Rosella Coffee’s downtown location. Speedy staff behind the well-stocked bar offer craft cocktails, $6 well drinks and shot-and-a-beer combos. For a happening downtown happy hour, this is the spot to be. 114 E. Houston St., (210) 977-0005, doublestandardsatx.com. Credit: Nina Rangel
Credit: Nina Rangel
21. The Esquire Tavern Opened 90 years ago to celebrate the end of Prohibition, the Esquire Tavern’s old-time ambiance is impossible to fake. From its soaring ceilings to the warm glow of its vintage light fixtures to its taxidermy animals to its breathtaking bar — once reputed to be the longest in Texas — this downtown landmark has ambiance to spare. It also bolsters that timeless allure with one of the city’s best craft cocktail programs and elevated bar food that ranges from steak and frites to barbecue sandwiches made with pork smoked in-house. Even the downscale items are treated with enough care that they feel special — the fried house-made pickles are not to be missed. 155 E. Commerce St., (210) 222-2521, esquiretavern-sa.com. Credit: Courtesy Photo / Esquire Tavern
20. Faust Tavern San Antonio has lost metal bars this year, including the venerable Bond’s 007 Rock Bar and short-lived doom-focused spot Torche. Thank God — or perhaps Satan — we still have Faust. Much like Ol’ Scratch himself, this metalhead mecca isn’t going anywhere. The dimly lit bar with patio seating serves as a venue for DIY metal and hardcore shows, but it’s plenty entertaining even when there’s no live music. Don your finest corpse paint and battle jacket and grab a cold one. Can we really bludgeon this metaphor to death by saying we sold our soul for Faust? Oops, too late. We just did. 517 E. Woodlawn Ave., instagram.com/fausttavernsa. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
23. The Friendly Spot Massive Live Oak trees frame this popular beer garden in the heart of the King William Historic District. There’s nothing pretentious at The Friendly Spot, which is the key to its lasting appeal. Inside its graveled grounds and seated at its weather-battered tables, you’ll find folks from all walks of life sipping inexpensive longnecks or enjoying pricier craft beers from one of the many eclectic taps. The Friendly Spot’s front and back bars together boast 76 beer and cider taps and 300 bottles and cans from Texas and beyond. Burgers, Mahi Mahi tacos and steak nachos are among the varied food offerings. Throw in a playground for the kids and Spurs games on a giant blowup screen, and you’ve got a place where an afternoon drink can stretch into an hours-long hangout. 943 S. Alamo St., (210) 224-2337, thefriendlyspot.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
24. George’s Keep There is a studied coziness to George’s Keep, the cocktail destination located at the terrace level of Northwest San Antonio’s upscale Eilan development. High-backed padded booths wrap imbibers in a cocoon for conversation while open seating at the bar invites conviviality. The experience is created by Steve Mahoney, the entrepreneur behind bars including Blue Box Bar, Francis Bogside and Hanzo. A slate of local beers from High Wheel dominates the taps, while the cocktail menu stays fresh with creative drinks such as the Charro, a cacao nib-infused tequila with Coca-Cola served in a tall glass with a smokey salt rim. 17803 La Cantera Terrace, (210) 310-3733, georgeskeep.com. Credit: Crystal Henry
25. Hanzo This Japanese-inspired restaurant and bar created by San Antonio restaurateur Steve Mahoney — the man behind George’s Keep, Blue Box Bar and the Green Lantern — doesn’t disappoint. Hanzo takes its Japanese theme seriously enough to play old anime shows in the main dining room but earns copious points for backing up the vibes with formidable eats, ranging from bao buns and sticky glazed ribs to a variety of creative sushi rolls. The spot also draws a crowd for its happy hours, which serve up $7 cocktails and sushi rolls from 11 p.m. to close every day or all day on Sundays and Mondays. Don’t miss the lunchtime bento boxes, either. 7701 Broadway, Suite 124, (210) 826-1488, hanzobar.com. Credit: Michael Karlis
Credit: Travis E. Poling
27. Heat The line that forms outside the aptly named Heat on weekend nights frequently offers a vivid preview of the festivities playing out inside. Those can encompass anything from sequin-clad drag queens and Speedo-sporting go-go boys to all stripes of LGBTQ+ scenesters tossing back shots and dancing the workweek away. Away from the pulsing beats of the dance floor — which periodically plays host to touring DJs — the Heat offers quieter spaces for intimate conversation and impromptu canoodling, including a designated “Chill Bar” and a breezy back patio. While the club lights up every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it also hosts a variety of themed nights — including drag showcases, underwear parties and BDSM events. 1500 N. Main Ave., (210) 227-2600, heatsa.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
Credit: Nina Rangel
29. High Street Wine Co. Despite a devoted following and prime location at the Pearl, High Street Wine Co. somehow still boasts the cachet of a hidden gem. A 2022 James Beard award semifinalist in the Outstanding Wine Program category, High Street recently doubled in size by expanding into an adjacent space. That added a private events area, a lounge and a larger cellar to store the establishment’s 500-plus wines from around the world. Wine education is incredibly approachable at High Street— whether it be an expertly explained flight or a midweek class — and there’s never any judgment if you’d rather post up on the patio to crush a bottle, nosh on flatbread and watch the world go by. 302 Pearl Parkway #104, (210) 908-9144, highstreetwine.com. Credit: Courtesy Photo / High Street Wine Co.
30. Hugman’s Oasis The River Walk’s kitschy throwback to the Trader Vic’s era gets things right thanks to vibrant design by veteran tiki artist Bamboo Ben and the bartenders’ deft hand at classic drinks of the era, including the Jungle Bird, the Painkiller and the Suffering Bastard. Expect the cocktails to be served in ceramic mugs that fit the South Pacific exotica theme. Of course, they’re also garnished with the requisite paper umbrellas, pineapple chunks and orchids — not to mention occasionally kissed with fire. It would be nice to see Hugman’s expand the food menu beyond four items, but that may a bit much to ask given the high volume expected of its tourist-friendly location. 135 E. Commerce St, (210) 441-7225, hugmansoasissatx.com. Credit: Kody Melton Photography
31. Jazz, TX The chatter and buzz of the food hall in the Pearl’s Bottling Department building fades away completely when patrons head for the cellar to find hot and cool jazz at piano man Doc Watkins’ Jazz, TX. Daily shows from bandleader Watkins and other jazz groups are interspersed with acts from other genres such as swing, blues and salsa. The kitchen has a high-end menu heavy on twists on surf-and-turf classics. Specialty cocktails are $14 and deliver big and rich flavors. With cognac, chai, sherry, almond and cream, the Satin Doll is like dessert in a glass. A short but well-thought-out beer list includes the refreshing Han’s Pils from Blanco-based brewery Real Ale and the warming Chimay Tripel made at a Trappist monastery in Belgium. 312 Pearl Parkway, Building 6, Suite 6001, (210) 332-9386, jazztx.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
32. La Ruina When La Ruina opened in 2022, its “Tropical American” tipples weren’t the only draw. San Antonio’s cocktail-loving community was champing at the bit to know what owners Olaf Harmel and Gerry Shirley — known for putting speakeasy-style cocktail spot The Modernist on the map — had been up to since the pandemic. The pair spent months renovating the historic building that houses La Ruina into a funky tropical paradise bursting with color and texture. Craft cocktail fans — especially lovers of rum, tequila and mezcal — should also find plenty to love beyond the atmosphere. 410 Austin St., (210) 627-7846, la-ruina.com. Credit: Courtesy Photo / La Ruina
Liberty Bar 1111 S. Alamo St., (210) 227-1187, liberty-bar.com Housed in a restored convent, Liberty Bar’s bright, window-filled space makes for a naturally gorgeous spot to dine in. The food and drink are definitely the main draws, and the eclectically-furnished dining rooms provide excellent ambiance for a romantic night out. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
34. Lighthouse Lounge Lighthouse Lounge is among the hangouts that have proliferated around Woodlawn Lake Park as gentrification spreads west, but its puro San Anto vibes make it feel like it’s been in the neighborhood for decades. Live music and DJs specializing in anything from Latin music to metal rule on the weekends, but on quiet nights, you’ll find a crowd as eclectic as the booking policy and the decor that adorns the walls. The Lighthouse Lounge serves everything that a neighborhood bar should, along with an array of specialty shots unique to the Alamo City, including its Luby’s Sweet Tea and Watermelon Paleta shots. 1016 Cincinnati Ave., facebook.com/thelighthouselounge. Credit: Michael Karlis
35. Little Death With a name that nods to the French term for orgasm, Little Death brings an irreverent spirit to the San Antonio vino scene that’s driven home by everything from its mural-covered facade to its signature hashtag: #worstwinebarsa. Doing double duty as what’s arguably the Alamo City’s most colorful wine shop, Little Death digs deep into the natural wine movement, importing bottles from across the globe while doing an admirable job of stocking both affordable options and rare finds. Beyond the reds, whites, rosés and bubblies, the super-casual space serves up solid snacks — cheese plates, conservas and tomato bread among them. It also shucks $1 East Coast oysters from an Airstream trailer beginning at 5 p.m. Wednesdays. 2327 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 264-6472, littledeathwine.com. Credit: Bryan Rindfuss
The Lonesome Rose 2114 N. St. Mary’s St., (210) 455-0233, thelonesomerose.com. You have to go to at least one honky tonk while you’re in San Antone. The Lonesome Rose, located close to downtown, offers the perfect place to two step and belly up to the bar for an ice cold Lonestar. Credit: Nina Rangel
37. Lowcountry Billed as the “sweetest little bar in Southtown,” Lowcountry is the perfect spot to start a night of revelry. Wedged between two converted apartment buildings off East César Chavez Boulevard, it might be hard to miss if not for the glow of purple neon. Once inside, however, visitors will discover an intimate, chicly decorated space that serves up specialty cocktails, including the fruity and refreshing Junglebird, a tiki classic. Lowcountry’s Hot Toddy is a perfect drink for hanging out on the expansive backyard patio as winter sets in. 318 Martinez St., (210) 560-2224, lowcountrysa.com. Credit: Michael Karlis
38. The Moon’s Daughters Situated on the 20th floor of the luxurious Thompson San Antonio hotel, The Moon’s Daughters offers terrace seating with 360-degree skyline views. The bar’s breathtaking vantage is clearly a big draw — expect the terrace to be bustling with both visitors and locals — but that’s not the only reason to visit. Business Jet Traveler magazine named The Moon’s Daughters one of Texas’ top five restaurants, which is testament to its stellar food and drinks. In other words: go for the ambiance, stay for the tipples. 115 Lexington Ave., (210) 942-6032, themoonsdaughters.com. Credit: Courtesy Photo / The Moon’s Daughters
Credit: Oscar Moreno
40. Pegasus In flight since 1994, Main Strip mainstay Pegasus serves as a tried-and-tested LGBTQ+ neighborhood bar, serving the community 12 hours a day, seven days a week — even “366 days during leap years.” While regulars start trickling in as early as 2 p.m. for budget cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere, the crowd starts assembling around 10 p.m. for nightly shows featuring local drag legends and rising stars alike. Home to some of the most affordable cocktails on the Main Strip, the delightfully unpretentious Peg also boasts what’s perhaps the city’s most entertaining and diverse karaoke stage. 1402 N. Main Ave., (210) 299-4222, pegasussanantonio.com. Credit: Bryan Rindfuss
41. Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling While the tasting and tap room at Northeast San Antonio’s Ranger Creek is worth swinging by just to hang out for a pint or cocktail, taking the tour heightens the visit. After all, this is Texas’ first combination brewery and distillery, and the owners have a lot to show off, from a hard-working copper still to an impressive array of bourbon aging in barrels. Some of Ranger Creek’s beers even age in used bourbon barrels for additional flavor depth. The 60- to 90-minute tours are available every Saturday at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and they include three samples. An add-on VIP whiskey-sampling experience lets patrons enjoy two future releases from the barrel, rare whiskies and bourbon chocolates. Beer choices range from the easy drinking San Antonio Lager to a robust barrel-aged Russian imperial stout. 4834 Whirlwind Drive, (210) 339-2282, drinkrangercreek.com. Credit: Courtesy Photo / Ranger Creek Brewing and Distillery
42. RD Speakeasy This unassuming airport-area cocktail spot possesses all of the marks of a secret getaway: nondescript entrance, barely there lighting and secret password for entry. The intrigue! Fortunately, there’s more to RD Speakeasy than schtick, however. Once inside, cozy up to your companion or sit solo at the bar — that’s how we do it — and watch the impeccable and precise work of the barkeeps as they fashion cocktails, both new and classic. The reservation-only spot seats just 27 guests, so expect attentive service and knowledgeable recommendations. 8400 N. New Braunfels Ave., (210) 605-2292, mixed4u.com. Credit: Jaime Monzon
43. Shady Lady Saloon This no-nonsense Southeast San Antonio watering hole boasts ice-cold beer, live music and all of the accoutrements one would expect from a neighborhood dive: shuffleboard, pool, darts and an Internet jukebox. Although plenty of other neighborhood spots offer similar amenities, the Shady Lady just seems to get all the nuances right. Belly up to the well-worn bar for affordably priced drinks or head to the back patio for a look at the night sky. The spot is just far enough removed from the bustle of the Brooks development to offer a breathtaking look at the stars. 3603 S. WW White Road, (210) 333-4224, facebook.com/shadyladsaloonsa. Credit: Nina Rangel
47. Sparky’s Pub Like its older sister Heat Nightclub, Sparky’s is having a bit of a renaissance under the direction of new owners John Barker and Jerry Jimenez — the married business partners who purchased it this past summer. Thankfully, what wasn’t broken hasn’t been fixed. A refreshingly mixed scene still shows up to throw back potent cocktails served in pint glasses, play games of pool and mingle with other members of the LGBTQ+ community in a cozy atmosphere modeled after a traditional British pub. The biggest change is perhaps a heightened focus on community-driven gatherings, such as October’s Drag Out the Vote — a Stonewall Democrats of San Antonio event that united drag performers and elected officials in a valiant effort to bolster early voting at nearby San Antonio College. As part of this new direction, the beloved bar recently added an expanded shade structure to the front of the building that’s already hosting monthly Sunday markets highlighting queer vendors. “We’re really working to bring the community together,” Barker told the Current. “And to build a more inclusive audience.” 1416 N. Main Ave., (210) 320-5111, sparkyspub.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
48. Sternewirth Tavern and Club Room The bar of The Pearl’s Hotel Emma is an inviting place that blends old-world classic looks of wood and brass with repurposed remnants of what was once the largest brewery in the Southwest. The cocktail list has a few signature drinks that stay, but the menu changes up from time to time as mixologists get playful with the ingredients in drinks such as the Sticky Rice, made with vodka, nigori sake, jasmine rice syrup and mango. Take time to explore the high-end bourbon, rye, Irish and Scotch whiskies list. It’s both wide and deep. 136 E. Grayson St., (210) 223-7375, thehotelemma.com. Credit: Sanford Nowlin
Credit: Travis E. Poling
47. Thirsty Horse Dance Hall & Saloon If the Americana-focused Lonesome Rose traffics in old-school honky tonk vibes, the Thirsty Horse Saloon does the same for those into the Nashville side of the C&W experience. Located in a North Central San Antonio strip mall, this dance hall destination offers darn good live music most nights of the week, a relaxing patio and a massive floor on which to dance the night away. For those new to two-steppin’, Thirsty Horse even offers $5 lessons Wednesday through Saturday. By the end of those instructions, you’ll be ready to boot scoot the night away. 2335 NW Military Highway, (210) 348-1513, thirstyhorse.net. Credit: Nina Rangel
Credit: Michael Karlis
49. Tony’s Siesta Tony’s Siesta is a tribute to Tony Lopez, the longtime bar owner who sold inexpensive drinks to downtown denizens and workers — blue and white collar alike — at the end of a long day. While the legacy of Lopez’s former bar lives on with the Tower of the Americas sculpture located in front of Tony’s Siesta, the tavern’s inner workings are much changed. The inviting interior space features a full bar, cocktails and draft beers including some local offerings. Guests partake in vodka- or rum-spiked aguas frescas in watermelon and various tropical flavors. While the prices are no longer dive-bar thrifty, Tony’s daily specials and happy hour pricing are worth checking out. A well-shaded outdoor patio backs up to a food truck park. 206 Brooklyn Ave., (210) 592-1199, facebook.com/tonyssiesta. Credit: Travis E. Poling
50. Who’s Who Cocktails Everyone’s a star in this unassuming but always lively Medical Center-area haunt. Who’s Who Cocktails welcomes karaoke aficionados seven days a week, offering up a a stage, sound system and multiple video monitors to scroll lyrics. If spectating is more your speed, grab a seat at the bar or in a cozy booth and watch the amateur crooners take their time at the mic. Whether you intend to sing or watch, get there early, since the space fills up quickly, especially on weekends. True to its name, the bar staff excels at both fancy and simple cocktails — liquid courage for those showing off their vocal skills. 1711 Babcock Road, (210) 973-5055, facebook.com/whoswhococktails. Credit: Nina Rangel

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