Winner: Thirsty Horse Saloon
2335 NW Military Hwy, (210) 348-1513, thirstyhorse.net
A country bar done right is all about the things left undone, really. The un-fussed-over details, the distinct things deemed unimportant are, after all, what really separate one bar from another, in general. A good country bar doesn't care about class – it cares about comfort. It doesn't care about luxury or lifestyle – it cares about livability. It doesn't care about finesse – it cares about fun. This year, our readers have selected Thirsty Horse Saloon, a spot in North Central SA that perfectly fits the ideal of a country bar in the suburbs, as their favorite Country Bar. While great drink specials and laid-back vibes make Thirsty Horse the kind of watering hole you want to return to time after time, it's the place's consistently-solid country music concerts (especially of the Texas country, red dirt, and party country variety) that provide the initial incentive for many to visit. If you haven't checked out this fan favorite yet, upcoming shows featuring Stoney LaRue and Josh Ward might prove the perfect time.
2. Cowboys Dancehall
3030 NE Interstate 410 Loop
3. SA Country Saloon
10127 Coachlight St.
(210) 525-0915,