Texas hasn't exactly earned a reputation for supporting LGBTQ+ rights, but the queer community here thrives in spite of it — especially in vibrant San Antonio.
We rounded up 25 LGBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants in the Alamo City, from gay bars on the North Main Strip to LGBTQ-owned and -operated restaurants across the city to local establishments that proudly proclaim their allyship.
The list isn't comprehensive, but it's a great place to start when planning a rainbow-hued night out on the town.
25 must-visit LGBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants in San Antonio
By San Antonio Current Staff on Fri, Jun 16, 2023 at 1:40 pm
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Photo via Instagram / houseofeternas
The Starlighter
1910 Fredericksburg Road, thestarlighter.com
If the bisexual stage lighting isn’t enough of a hint, the Starlighter’s calendar is jam-packed with drag performances. The live music destination in the Deco district regularly hosts drag brunch, a drag market and drag shows featuring local performers.
1910 Fredericksburg Road, thestarlighter.com
If the bisexual stage lighting isn’t enough of a hint, the Starlighter’s calendar is jam-packed with drag performances. The live music destination in the Deco district regularly hosts drag brunch, a drag market and drag shows featuring local performers.
Sanford Nowlin
Heat Nightclub
1500 N. Main Ave., (210) 227-2600, heatsa.com
If you need to turn up the heat, look no further than Heat Nightclub on the Main Strip. The dance floor is often packed, music pumping and drinks flowing, and the LGBTQ+ space welcomes people from all walks of life. The club also features more quiet and intimate spaces such as the back patio and “Chill Bar.”
1500 N. Main Ave., (210) 227-2600, heatsa.com
If you need to turn up the heat, look no further than Heat Nightclub on the Main Strip. The dance floor is often packed, music pumping and drinks flowing, and the LGBTQ+ space welcomes people from all walks of life. The club also features more quiet and intimate spaces such as the back patio and “Chill Bar.”
Photo via Instagram / picks_barsa
Picks Bar
4553 N. Loop 1604 West, (210) 253-9220, picksbar.com
Jessica Marinez and Amber Hernandez crafted this venue for the live music lovers of SA. The nightspot features live performances, karaoke nights, drag brunches, queer-friendly speed dating and an expansive drink menu and a food menu to boot. The partners — in business and in life — also operate downtown spot Pink Shark.
4553 N. Loop 1604 West, (210) 253-9220, picksbar.com
Jessica Marinez and Amber Hernandez crafted this venue for the live music lovers of SA. The nightspot features live performances, karaoke nights, drag brunches, queer-friendly speed dating and an expansive drink menu and a food menu to boot. The partners — in business and in life — also operate downtown spot Pink Shark.
Julian P. Ledezma
The Bonham Exchange
411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com
Once a pioneering gay disco with a popular “straight night,” the Bonham Exchange is an all-inclusive melting pot with three floors that let you partake in all the good stuff nightlife is made of: drinks, music and dancing. From drag shows to Trash Disco to hot chest contests, this club has an event for all occasions.
411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com
Once a pioneering gay disco with a popular “straight night,” the Bonham Exchange is an all-inclusive melting pot with three floors that let you partake in all the good stuff nightlife is made of: drinks, music and dancing. From drag shows to Trash Disco to hot chest contests, this club has an event for all occasions.
Photo courtesy of Nick Simonite for Hotel Havana
Ocho at Hotel Havana
1015 Navarro St., (210) 222-2008, havanasanantonio.com
With Pan-Latin fare, mojitos and a chic aesthetic at the forefront, Ocho is a San Antonio favorite for a reason. Helmed by nonbinary chef Jesse Kuykendall, better known as Chef Kirk, this airy spot is a dependable option for a romantic dinner.
1015 Navarro St., (210) 222-2008, havanasanantonio.com
With Pan-Latin fare, mojitos and a chic aesthetic at the forefront, Ocho is a San Antonio favorite for a reason. Helmed by nonbinary chef Jesse Kuykendall, better known as Chef Kirk, this airy spot is a dependable option for a romantic dinner.
Photo via Instagram / paramourbar
Paramour at The Phipps
102 9th St. Floor 4, (210) 417-6559, facebook.com/Paramour.Phipps
Known for its drag brunches, Paramour not only puts on a show, but features a wide range of cocktails to give you something to sip on at this fun rooftop bar — enjoy the skyline views from the open air patio or the colorful views inside the space, courtesy of a number of bedazzled drag performers.
102 9th St. Floor 4, (210) 417-6559, facebook.com/Paramour.Phipps
Known for its drag brunches, Paramour not only puts on a show, but features a wide range of cocktails to give you something to sip on at this fun rooftop bar — enjoy the skyline views from the open air patio or the colorful views inside the space, courtesy of a number of bedazzled drag performers.
Photo via Instagram / elsewheresatx
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
103 E. Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215, (210) 446-9303, elsewheretexas.com
Elsewhere is located right on the River Walk, making it perfect for people-watching as guests sip their drinks or nosh on the spot’s gourmet goodies. Its drinks range from beers to margaritas to even spiked coffees, guaranteeing a good time as folks revel in adult-sized swings and eclectic outdoor seating areas.
103 E. Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215, (210) 446-9303, elsewheretexas.com
Elsewhere is located right on the River Walk, making it perfect for people-watching as guests sip their drinks or nosh on the spot’s gourmet goodies. Its drinks range from beers to margaritas to even spiked coffees, guaranteeing a good time as folks revel in adult-sized swings and eclectic outdoor seating areas.
Photo via Instagram / lamaceta_52
La Maceta Tapatios
125 Lamar St., (210) 999-1229, facebook.com/lamaceta.52
Swing by La Maceta Tapatios to fill up before a night of fun. The tacos and taquitos from this LGBTQ-owned food truck are sure to hit the spot, but those wanting to shake things up might want to try La Maceta’s take on a Mexican hot dog.
125 Lamar St., (210) 999-1229, facebook.com/lamaceta.52
Swing by La Maceta Tapatios to fill up before a night of fun. The tacos and taquitos from this LGBTQ-owned food truck are sure to hit the spot, but those wanting to shake things up might want to try La Maceta’s take on a Mexican hot dog.
Nina Rangel
Rosario’s
722 S. St. Mary's St., (210) 223-1806, rosariossa.com
There’s loads of Mexican restaurants to choose from in San Antonio, but Rosario’s is a must-try, with its mix of traditional Mexican foods and house specialties. Rosario’s new Southtown location is a two-story building featuring a 5,000-square-foot rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the downtown skyline.
722 S. St. Mary's St., (210) 223-1806, rosariossa.com
There’s loads of Mexican restaurants to choose from in San Antonio, but Rosario’s is a must-try, with its mix of traditional Mexican foods and house specialties. Rosario’s new Southtown location is a two-story building featuring a 5,000-square-foot rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the downtown skyline.
Sanford Nowlin
Pegasus
1402 N. Main Ave., (210) 299-4222, pegasussanantonio.com
A beacon on the North Main Strip, the party doesn’t stop at popular gay bar Pegasus. The bar’s outdoor stage is host to frequent drag shows and other live entertainment, ranging from outdoor karaoke to video DJs. For many, stopping at Pegasus is almost like going on a pilgrimage: according to its website, it’s the oldest bar on the Strip.
1402 N. Main Ave., (210) 299-4222, pegasussanantonio.com
A beacon on the North Main Strip, the party doesn’t stop at popular gay bar Pegasus. The bar’s outdoor stage is host to frequent drag shows and other live entertainment, ranging from outdoor karaoke to video DJs. For many, stopping at Pegasus is almost like going on a pilgrimage: according to its website, it’s the oldest bar on the Strip.
Photo via Instagram / pinksharkbar
Pink Shark
203 N Presa St., (210) 834-3372, instagram.com/pinksharkbar
Owned by the same couple as Picks Bar, this vacation-themed cocktail bar is sure to chomp at your taste buds. If the impeccable decor and shark-shaped tiki mugs don’t sell you, the extensive list of draft beers, cocktails and food likely will. While you’re there, maybe you’ll catch a sight of Left Shark or Blåhaj, the blue-and-pink IKEA shark plushie that became a trans icon.
203 N Presa St., (210) 834-3372, instagram.com/pinksharkbar
Owned by the same couple as Picks Bar, this vacation-themed cocktail bar is sure to chomp at your taste buds. If the impeccable decor and shark-shaped tiki mugs don’t sell you, the extensive list of draft beers, cocktails and food likely will. While you’re there, maybe you’ll catch a sight of Left Shark or Blåhaj, the blue-and-pink IKEA shark plushie that became a trans icon.
Photo via Instagram / magnoliapancakehaus
Magnolia Pancake Haus
606 Embassy Oaks, (210) 496-0828, magnoliapancakehaus.com
In 2020 and 2021, Current readers voted Magnolia Pancake Haus the best breakfast spot in San Antonio — and for good reason. Try a stack of the buttermilk pancakes or one of their seasonal concoctions for yourself and you’ll be marking your calendar for your next visit.
606 Embassy Oaks, (210) 496-0828, magnoliapancakehaus.com
In 2020 and 2021, Current readers voted Magnolia Pancake Haus the best breakfast spot in San Antonio — and for good reason. Try a stack of the buttermilk pancakes or one of their seasonal concoctions for yourself and you’ll be marking your calendar for your next visit.
Courtesy Photo / The Good Kind
The Good Kind
1127 S. St. Mary's St., (210) 801-5892, eatgoodkind.com
Not only does The Good Kind offer a great spot for fresh and local eats — they've also got a consistent lineup of on-site events, such as a Saturday farmers market and Wednesday night karaoke. It never hurts to check out the events calendar before heading over to see what else might be brewing.
1127 S. St. Mary's St., (210) 801-5892, eatgoodkind.com
Not only does The Good Kind offer a great spot for fresh and local eats — they've also got a consistent lineup of on-site events, such as a Saturday farmers market and Wednesday night karaoke. It never hurts to check out the events calendar before heading over to see what else might be brewing.
Sanford Nowlin
Knockout
1420 N Main Ave., (210) 227-7678, knockoutsa.com
With a wide selection of pizza and all-day drink specials, Knockout has established itself as among the youngest LGBTQ+ bars in the city. Spurs fans looking for a new game night spot may find that Knockout is just the place — the bar has 15 flat screen TVs dedicated to sports.
1420 N Main Ave., (210) 227-7678, knockoutsa.com
With a wide selection of pizza and all-day drink specials, Knockout has established itself as among the youngest LGBTQ+ bars in the city. Spurs fans looking for a new game night spot may find that Knockout is just the place — the bar has 15 flat screen TVs dedicated to sports.
Photo via Instagram / hopshoundssa
Hops & Hounds
13838 Jones Maltsberger Road, (210) 592-9400, hopsandhoundsllc.com
This northeast San Antonio joint offers several snacks on which to nosh while you grab a drink and play some good ol’ fashioned cornhole with your friends. As the name implies, man’s best friend is also welcome at Hops & Hounds, and the patio even sports a fully furnished dog park.
13838 Jones Maltsberger Road, (210) 592-9400, hopsandhoundsllc.com
This northeast San Antonio joint offers several snacks on which to nosh while you grab a drink and play some good ol’ fashioned cornhole with your friends. As the name implies, man’s best friend is also welcome at Hops & Hounds, and the patio even sports a fully furnished dog park.
Sanford Nowlin
Sparky’s Pub
1416 N. Main Ave., (210) 320-5111, sparkyspub.com
Bringing a taste of England to the North Main Strip, Sparky’s Pub offers a relaxing atmosphere to grab a beer, play darts or shoot pool. In addition to the alcohol, Sparky’s also offers coffee, panini, pastries and other eats.
1416 N. Main Ave., (210) 320-5111, sparkyspub.com
Bringing a taste of England to the North Main Strip, Sparky’s Pub offers a relaxing atmosphere to grab a beer, play darts or shoot pool. In addition to the alcohol, Sparky’s also offers coffee, panini, pastries and other eats.
Photo by Kimberly Machado via Instagram / weatheredsoulsbrewing_satx
Weathered Souls Brewing Co.
606 Embassy Oaks - Suite 500, (210) 274-6824, weatheredsouls.beer
Weathered Souls Brewing made a name for itself in 2020 with its Black is Beautiful social justice campaign. You can get that signature brew or any of Weathered Souls’ many others at the northeast San Antonio taproom. Guests can also check out their food menu, which features a diverse selection of eats that ranges from a stuffed avocado appetizer to a loaded sandwich called The Hot Boi.
606 Embassy Oaks - Suite 500, (210) 274-6824, weatheredsouls.beer
Weathered Souls Brewing made a name for itself in 2020 with its Black is Beautiful social justice campaign. You can get that signature brew or any of Weathered Souls’ many others at the northeast San Antonio taproom. Guests can also check out their food menu, which features a diverse selection of eats that ranges from a stuffed avocado appetizer to a loaded sandwich called The Hot Boi.
Sanford Nowlin
2015 Place
2015 San Pedro Ave., (210) 733-3365, 2015-place.business.site
A few blocks away from the Main Strip, 2015 Place brings a neighborhood pub vibe to the area. Featuring a mirrored dance floor, pool, darts and a cozy patio, the LGBTQ+ nightspot provides a friendly atmosphere and low prices to keep people coming back.
2015 San Pedro Ave., (210) 733-3365, 2015-place.business.site
A few blocks away from the Main Strip, 2015 Place brings a neighborhood pub vibe to the area. Featuring a mirrored dance floor, pool, darts and a cozy patio, the LGBTQ+ nightspot provides a friendly atmosphere and low prices to keep people coming back.
Courtesy Photo / Box Street All Day
Box Street All Day
623 Hemisfair Blvd. Ste. 108, (210) 476-5705, theboxstreetsocial.com
Known — and aptly named — for its all-day brunch and cocktails, Box Street All Day features an espresso bar, craft cocktails, bubbles and local beer, all in a cheeky, Insta-worthy environment. Box Street is the perfect place for those seeking an inclusive and welcoming ambiance that’s also just plain pretty.
623 Hemisfair Blvd. Ste. 108, (210) 476-5705, theboxstreetsocial.com
Known — and aptly named — for its all-day brunch and cocktails, Box Street All Day features an espresso bar, craft cocktails, bubbles and local beer, all in a cheeky, Insta-worthy environment. Box Street is the perfect place for those seeking an inclusive and welcoming ambiance that’s also just plain pretty.
Photo via Instagram / southtownbunuelos
The Friendly Spot Ice House
943 S. Alamo St., (210) 224-2337, thefriendlyspot.com
Southtown’s Friendly Spot Ice House, with its colorful chairs, neon signs and massive projector screen, feels like a home away from home — a place that’s friendly for everyone. Plus, it’s located just a few blocks away from the San Antonio River, which is fitting, because the drinks on tap flow just as the river does.
943 S. Alamo St., (210) 224-2337, thefriendlyspot.com
Southtown’s Friendly Spot Ice House, with its colorful chairs, neon signs and massive projector screen, feels like a home away from home — a place that’s friendly for everyone. Plus, it’s located just a few blocks away from the San Antonio River, which is fitting, because the drinks on tap flow just as the river does.
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