Top 30 Restaurants in San Antonio (2024): Discover the Best Dining Experiences

Shezzy

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The 30 Best Restaurants In San Antonio (2024)

San Antonio, a thriving culinary destination, offers an array of dining experiences that reflect its rich culture and Mexican and Spanish heritage. From iconic family-run taco stands to upscale Mexican restaurants, the city celebrates its Southwestern culture with a blend of southern food and meat-forward dishes. Among these, Bar Loretta stands out, seamlessly integrating Texas flavors with rustic-chic sophistication found in New American restaurants. This place, like many along the San Antonio Riverwalk, provides not just a meal but a scenic view, enhancing the dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, San Antonio’s best food scene offers both delicious and exciting options that are deeply embedded in the city’s guide to the best restaurants.

Criteria for Ranking the Best Restaurants in San Antonio

Criteria for Ranking the Best Restaurants in San Antonio


When selecting the best restaurants in San Antonio, the criteria encompass a variety of factors that cater to the diverse and dynamic culinary scene of this vibrant city. To determine the standout eateries, we consider the quality of the food, emphasizing freshness, flavor, and culinary innovation. Customer satisfaction plays a crucial role, gauged through consistent positive reviews and customer feedback on various platforms. The ambiance and location are also critical, as they contribute to the overall dining experience, whether it’s a scenic view along the River Walk or a cozy, intimate setting in a hidden gem.

Additionally, we look at the chef’s reputation and the restaurant’s ability to offer a unique dining experience, often reflected in their recognition by esteemed platforms such as the James Beard awards or local culinary competitions. Service quality is paramount, as top restaurants must provide impeccable and attentive customer service. Lastly, the menu’s diversity, catering to a range of dietary preferences and culinary explorations, from authentic Tex-Mex and traditional barbecue to innovative fusion dishes, underscores a restaurant’s commitment to satisfying a broad audience.

These criteria not only help diners in San Antonio find the best places to eat in San Antonio but also guide us in creating a ranked list that reflects the true culinary spirit of the city, making it a useful resource for both locals and visitors alike. For those seeking the San Antonio best food and exploring the San Antonio best restaurants, our guide offers insights into the top culinary spots in the city.

1. Curry Boys BBQ

 Curry Boys BBQ


In the heart of San Antonio’s bustling Strip, Curry Boys BBQ stands out with its unique fusion of traditional Texas barbecue and Southeast Asian curries, housed in a distinctive small pink building since 2020. This innovative restaurant offers a culinary experience like no other, where tender slices of smoked brisket are expertly slathered in green curry and served over a bed of rice and potatoes. Known for the Brisket Smoke Show, Curry Boys BBQ masterfully pairs diverse cuisines, making each dish a flavorful adventure. Whether opting for takeout or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere indoors or outdoors, guests are treated to top-notch service and a menu that changes regularly, inviting diners to return for new tastes. For more culinary delights, explore our guide on the Best BBQ Restaurants. This spot is a must-visit for both barbecue aficionados and curry enthusiasts alike.

  • Address: 2334 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
  • Website: Curry Boys BBQ

2. Chart House

Chart House


Chart House is an exceptional dining venue known for its exquisite seafood and steak offerings. Situated in a prime location, this restaurant offers stunning views that complement its sophisticated menu, making it a favorite for both lunch and dinner occasions. Chart House excels in delivering not only a variety of fresh seafood options but also expertly prepared steaks, each dish crafted to enhance the natural flavors. The ambiance of the restaurant is designed to provide a comfortable yet elegant dining experience, suitable for family meals or a romantic evening out. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, the staff at Chart House are known for their friendly and attentive service, ensuring every visit is memorable. The venue is also conveniently located near local attractions, making it a perfect spot for those looking to continue exploring after their meal. Just a short walk away, you can treat yourself at one of the city’s top Ice Cream Spots, perfect for dessert after a satisfying meal.

  • Website: Chart House
  • Address: 555 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205

3. Biga on the Banks

Located along the scenic San Antonio Riverwalk, Biga on the Banks is a top destination for innovative New American cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. Known for its ever-changing menu, Biga highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients with dishes like Lockhart Quail and Blackened Gulf Snapper, each crafted with precision and flair. Royal Inn in San Antonio is another local treasure, renowned for its American-style Chinese food with classic dishes such as sweet and sour pork, almond chicken, and pepper steak. What truly shines at Royal Inn is their selection of soups, offering everything from pork with pickled vegetables to seafood hot and sour. Another must-visit is Golden Wok, known for its authentic Chinese cuisine, including dim sum, Peking duck, and a variety of stir-fry dishes. For those seeking comfort in food, both Royal Inn and Golden Wok blend tradition with a homey ambiance, making them standout choices among the top restaurants in San Antonio.

4. Rosario’s ComidaMex and Bar

Rosario’s ComidaMex and Bar, a San Antonio favorite, is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine. Located in the heart of the city, Rosario’s offers a dynamic menu featuring flavorful dishes like Pollo en Mole Poblano and award-winning Puffy Tacos. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a lively dinner with friends, the lively ambiance and extensive tequila selection enhance the dining experience. With a reputation for excellent service and a commitment to fresh, quality ingredients, Rosario’s is a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors in San Antonio.

5. Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery

Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery

Located at the heart of the Pearl district, just north of downtown San Antonio, Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery has become synonymous with high-quality Southern comfort food with a coastal flair inspired by Galveston’s culinary style. Chef Jeff Balfour brings his expertise to dishes like marinated, seasoned, and pressure-fried chicken, making it a constant favorite, along with the unique fried snapper throats that are a must-try for any visitor. This establishment is not just about fine dining but also offers a welcoming shopping and dining development, where guests can enjoy their meals indoors or out. The brewery part of Southerleigh caters to those who appreciate craft beers brewed on-site, enhancing the dining experience with a perfect blend of food and drink. If you’re interested in starting your day just as impressively, consider exploring other Breakfast Restaurants in the Pearl district for a delightful morning experience.

6. Bliss

Located in a tastefully renovated filling station, Bliss serves as a cornerstone of the New American dining scene in San Antonio, especially renowned for date nights. The chef-owned and operated restaurant emphasizes a seasonal cuisine, with a menu that changes regularly to reflect the newest and freshest ingredients available. This approach ensures a unique dining experience each visit, held within a comfortable and quaint setting that marries relaxed elegance with culinary excellence. Bliss is particularly noted for creating an environment that’s perfect for a cozy date night or a special meal with loved ones, ensuring every dish contributes to a memorable evening. The focused yet diverse menu offers everything from innovative starters to expertly crafted main courses, all designed to delight and inspire its guests. While Bliss is a hit for romantic evenings, if you’re planning a family outing, you might want to check out the Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in the area, offering a welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages.

  • Website: Bliss
  • Address: 926 S Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78210

7. Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood

Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood


Bohanan’s Prime Steaks and Seafood epitomizes the quintessential steakhouse experience in San Antonio, combining local charm with world-class dining. Situated in a historic building on Houston Street, across from the Majestic Theatre, it’s a prime destination for a fabulous date night or a fancy party. Since 2002, Chef Mark Bohanan has led this establishment, known for its old-world elegance, featuring dark wood, sparkling crystal, and white tablecloths. The atmosphere is both sophisticated and comfortable, making guests feel both esteemed and at ease. The friendly and elegant staff enhances the experience, serving pre-prohibition era cocktails like old fashioneds, martinis, and manhattans at the full-service bar. The culinary highlight is undoubtedly the steak, with custom cuts of prime beef that promise a steakhouse meal to remember. Bohanan’s also offers an endearing start to your meal with the chef’s mother’s snack of candied jalapeño over crostini followed by a loaf of fresh French bread. For those who enjoy exploring diverse dining spots, be sure to check out our guide on the Best SeaFood Spots.

8. Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More

Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More

On a hot day in San Antonio, nothing beats the refreshing delights at Las Nieves Fruit Cups & More, a casual snack stand located in Beacon Hill. This vibrant spot, characterized by its lime-green building and colorful wall menu displaying photos of various mangonada variations, raspa, and piccadilly, serves up an impressive assortment of frozen treats, fresh fruit cups, and Italian ices. The signature chamoy-covered mangonada is a local favorite, offering a perfect blend of sweet and spicy. Alongside these sweet treats, guests can enjoy savory bites like corn in a cup, making it a versatile stop for all appetites. With multiple locations on Blanco Road and Thousand Oaks Drive, Las Nieves also provides pleasant outdoor dining options, making it an ideal spot for family outings or a quick snack during city explorations.

For those craving a different cuisine, there are also excellent Italian restaurants in San Antonio that offer a delightful dining experience.

9. Taquitos West Avenue

Taquitos West Avenue

Taquitos West Avenue offers an authentic speedy diner experience in the heart of San Antonio’s Dellview area, catering especially to those with a penchant for Jalisco-style street tacos. Since evolving from a simple taco stand to a full-service restaurant, it has become a crucial pit stop for taco cravings, particularly during the late hours. The menu features a range of meticulously prepared meats including al pastor, brisket, and lengua, all served on handmade corn tortillas. This venue is celebrated for its counter-service efficiency, providing a vibrant dining room that remains open until midnight and extends even later on weekends, making it a popular spot for both late-night diners and early morning risers seeking a substantial bite.

10. Demo’s Greek Food

At Demo’s Greek Food, you can immerse yourself in a Mediterranean atmosphere enriched with hand-painted murals and Grecian architecture, located across various spots including Castle Hills, the Strip, and Stone Oak. This restaurant is famed for its authentic Greek dishes, offering a range of traditional appetizers like spanakopita and pita wraps, which draw crowds consistently for lunch and dinner. The setting is perfect for a family outing or a casual meal, with both indoor and outdoor dining options available. Demo’s provides takeout services as well, accommodating orders placed in person or online, ensuring a convenient dining experience for all guests.

  • Address: Multiple locations including 7115 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216
  • Website: Demo’s Greek Food

11. Original Donut Shop

Original Donut Shop

Located in the bustling Maverick neighborhood, the Original Donut Shop is a local favorite renowned for its unique blend of bakery and taqueria offerings. Situated on Fredericksburg Road, this iconic spot features a convenient drive-thru and ample parking, making it especially popular during peak hours. The shop serves a range of specialty doughnuts and is celebrated for its toasted bean and cheese tacos, a true local delicacy. With options for takeout and dine-in in both indoor and outdoor settings, the Original Donut Shop caters to all kinds of diners, whether they’re grabbing a quick breakfast or enjoying a leisurely snack. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit for anyone in San Antonio. For those who are curious about other top spots to grab a sweet treat, check out our guide on the Donut Shops.

12. Clementine

Clementine in Castle Hills offers an unexpected fine-dining experience under the guidance of James Beard-recognized chefs John and Elise Russ. This quaint restaurant on Northwest Loop 410 is a gem within the city, known for its innovative New Texan dishes with a Southern touch. The menu, which changes seasonally, includes sophisticated options like quail, rabbit, and the popular “Feed Me” prix fixe selection that showcases the chefs’ ability to highlight flavors that are fresh and vibrant. Clementine provides a cozy yet elegant setting for dine-in guests, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Reservations can be easily made online or over the phone, making it accessible for both planned special occasions and spontaneous walk-ins.

13. Ray’s Drive Inn

Ray's Drive Inn

Ray’s Drive Inn is a cherished gem in San Antonio’s Westside, celebrated for introducing the iconic puffy taco to the city in the 1950s. Founded by Arturo Lopez, this historic drive-in offers a nostalgic yet vibrant dining experience, where customers can enjoy their meals from the comfort of their cars. Known for its plump, fried corn tortilla tacos filled with lettuce, tomato, and cheese, the menu at Ray’s has become a staple among locals seeking authentic Mexican favorites. The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor dining areas, accommodating all seasons and preferences. Preorders can be conveniently placed online, ensuring a swift pickup for those on the go.

14. Niki’s Tokyo Inn

Niki’s Tokyo Inn, situated in the Edison neighborhood, might appear unassuming from the outside, but it’s a venerable institution in San Antonio, offering some of the most authentic Japanese fare since 1970. As a family-owned and operated venue for over 50 years, Niki’s has withstood the test of time, attracting sushi lovers with its extensive menu that includes maki, sashimi, and nigiri sushi, as well as crispy pork katsudon and slurpable yakisoba noodles. The restaurant features a variety of seating options, from standard tables to a traditional sushi bar and tatami-style floor seating, enhancing the dining experience. Takeout orders can be placed over the phone or in person, catering to those preferring to enjoy their meals at home.

15. Best Quality Daughter

Best Quality Daughter is an Asian fusion restaurant that has quickly made its mark in San Antonio since its inception in 2018. Located in the vibrant Pearl district, this eatery was originally conceived through pop-ups focusing on highlighting women Asian American chefs. Under the guidance of chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, the restaurant has transitioned into a permanent physical space where creativity in Asian cuisine flourishes. The menu features standout dishes like curry shrimp fried rice, crispy and soft tofu in vegan mapo sauce, and mochi cheddar hush puppies—each dish crafted to reflect a lighthearted sensibility while delivering complex flavors. Best Quality Daughter also offers unique beverages such as boozy boba tea, enhancing the dining experience. With options for takeout, indoor, and outdoor dining, this establishment caters to a variety of dining preferences.

16. Tank’s Pizza

Tank's Pizza

Tank’s Pizza, located on San Antonio’s Eastside, is a pizzeria that satisfies all your pizza cravings with its chewy, crispy crusts and gooey cheese. Since 2018, owner Michael Brown has been at the helm, ensuring that each pizza, from the classic pepperoni to the fully loaded Maxed Out Meat, is topped with high-quality ingredients and baked to crispy perfection. Beyond pizzas, the restaurant’s saucy chicken wings and meticulously crafted calzones have also become local favorites. Tank’s Pizza offers a friendly, casual atmosphere where regulars and new visitors alike can enjoy their meals either indoors or outdoors. Takeout orders can be easily placed online, accommodating those looking to enjoy their meal at home. For more delicious options, be sure to explore our guide on the Best Pizza Spots.

  • Address: 902 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78202
  • Website: Tank’s Pizza

17. 2M Smokehouse

2M Smokehouse in San Antonio’s Lower Southeast Side epitomizes the essence of Texas barbecue with a distinct flair that draws lines out the door. Celebrated for its richly flavored meats, including a standout brisket that delivers a full-on sensory experience with its deep, smoky taste and tender texture, this locale is a meat lover’s haven. Beyond brisket, the smokehouse offers smoked turkey breast and pulled pork, along with unique sides like chicharoni macaroni and Maria’s beans, available by the gallon for larger gatherings. Whether you choose to enjoy your meal in the cozy indoor areas or the spacious outdoor dining setting, 2M Smokehouse ensures a memorable barbecue experience every time.

  • Address: 2731 S WW White Rd, San Antonio, TX 78222
  • Website: 2M Smokehouse

18. Rosario’s

Rosario's

Located in the vibrant Southtown district, Rosario’s Mexican Restaurant has been a mainstay in the San Antonio dining scene for over 30 years. Despite the evolution of restaurants around it, Rosario’s continues to thrive, recently moving to a new location that enhances its colorful and inviting lounge aesthetic. Known for elevating casual dining with dishes like fish tacos and enchiladas Mexicanas, which are dinner standouts, Rosario’s creates an ideal atmosphere for catching up with friends and family. The restaurant is famous for its frozen margaritas and nachos, perfect for sharing, ensuring a lively and enjoyable dining experience. With both indoor and outdoor dining options available, guests can enjoy the flavorful menu regardless of the weather, with takeout orders conveniently placed online.

19. Rudy’s Seafood

Rudy's Seafood

Rudy’s Seafood on the Southside of San Antonio, a fixture since the 1960s, continues to serve up generous helpings of classic seafood dishes that have endeared it to locals for decades. This restaurant is celebrated for its fried fish, shrimp, and oysters, complemented by tartar sauce, lemon slices, and a heap of fries, making it a beloved spot for seafood lovers. The giant servings ensure that no one leaves hungry, creating a hearty meal experience. Rudy’s maintains a casual setting with indoor dining areas where families can gather for a delicious feast. Pickup orders can be placed over the phone, making it easy for those on the go to enjoy Rudy’s offerings. For those interested in exploring a broader variety of fresh seafood, check out our guide on the SeaFood Markets.

20. Cured

Located in the historic Pearl district of San Antonio, Cured offers a truly unique dining experience, specializing in charcuterie and New American cuisine. Helmed by James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh, this meat-forward restaurant is set in a beautifully restored building dating back to 1904. The ambiance combines rustic charm with sophisticated touches, featuring exposed brick walls, wooden floorboards, and a striking glass display case filled with house-cured meats. Cured’s menu showcases a variety of hand-crafted, cured ingredients like salami, duck ham, smoked habanero oysters, and a standout charcuterie plate featuring items such as jalapeño pork rillettes and 75-day sobrasada. Perfect for brunch, date night, or a family meal, Cured invites diners to savor every bite amidst an atmosphere of deep culinary heritage and commitment to sustainability.

  • Address: 306 Pearl Pkwy #101, San Antonio, TX 78215
  • Website: Cured at Pearl

21. Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

Brasserie Mon Chou Chou, located in the Pearl Brewery Historic District of San Antonio, epitomizes French comfort food at its finest. Guests can enjoy a range of decadent French entrees, from the ooey-gooey delight of a Raclette—scraped right off the wheel and often the star of a photo opportunity—to a perfectly crafted chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich with Parisian ham and housemade aioli. The restaurant’s charm is amplified by its elegant interior and the option to dine at quaint outdoor bistro tables, offering a prime view of the bustling Pearl district. Whether stopping by for an upscale breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner, Mon Chou Chou delivers an authentic slice of Parisian life, right down to the full bottles of wine that might replace water to complement your meal.

22. Maverick Texas Brasserie

Maverick Texas Brasserie

Maverick Texas Brasserie offers a sophisticated blend of French-American cuisine, making it a prime spot for date nights and dinner parties in San Antonio. Located in a beautifully restored building, its chic-industrial design features black steel beams, Edison bulbs, exposed brick, and a striking copper cocktail bar that adds a warm glow to the ambiance. The dining rooms are versatile, perfect for an intimate date night or a lively birthday gathering or rehearsal dinner. The menu shines with a French influence, boasting dishes like Steak Frite with truffle fries, Croque madame, and rotisserie half duck. Each dish is complemented by an impressive wine list sourced from France and California, along with specialty cocktails crafted to perfection. The Plats Du Jour offers a rotating entree selection that allows diners to experience the freshest ingredients and seasonal cuisine at an approachable price for quality, ensuring that Maverick remains one of the best restaurants for culinary enthusiasts looking for a taste of Texas with a French twist.

23. NONNA Osteria

NONNA Osteria, nestled on the ground floor of the Fairmont Hotel directly across from Hemisfair Park at 401 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205, is a beacon of Italian cuisine in San Antonio. The restaurant offers a stunning ambiance with white tabletops and shiny wood floors, projecting a classic yet comfortable atmosphere. Chef Luca Della Casa brings his heritage into the kitchen, offering a menu rich with hand-crafted northern Italian dishes including antipasti, artisan Italian pizzas, and handmade pasta. A highlight of dining at NONNA is the Tartufo, an indulgent dish where homemade pasta is mixed in a cheese rind, enhanced with lump crab and sprinkled with black truffle shavings right at your table. This dish, along with the beautifully crafted setting, makes NONNA an ideal spot for an upscale date night, especially if you begin your evening with pre-dinner drinks at the Fairmont Hotel’s rooftop oyster bar, enjoying breathtaking views of the city.

24. Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

Dough Pizzeria Napoletana is a celebrated staple for Neapolitan pizza in San Antonio, offering a kid-friendly dinner and casual meal experience that stands out in the city’s culinary landscape. Located strategically near Hemisfair Park, complete with a splash pad and playground, it provides a perfect family outing destination where parents can relax while children play nearby. Dough is famous for its Neapolitan-style pizza, which is expertly flash-cooked in a brick oven to achieve a perfect charred edge and soft middle. Each pizza is made according to the strict standards of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN), ensuring authenticity with every bite. Besides pizza, Dough offers house-made burrata, farm-to-table salads, and fresh pasta, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Featured on the Food Network, this pizzeria not only promises but delivers some of the best pizza in the city.

25. Allora

Allora

Opened in March 2022, Allora brings an exquisite taste of coastal Italian cuisine to San Antonio, blending traditional Texas-style and New American offerings with upscale international flavors. Located at 2195 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78213, this restaurant is spearheaded by Executive Chef Robbie Nowlin, who ensures each dish from the antipasti to the sashimi grade crudi and main courses like Grilled Octopus and Tagliatelle alla Bolognese Bianco are prepared with precision. Allora is ideal for dining with friends, whether for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Its knowledgeable service and beautifully curated menu make it a standout in the Alamo City’s dining scene. The restaurant also offers an attractive lunch option with panini priced between $15-17, providing a taste of Allora’s sophistication without the full dinner menu expense.

  • Website: Allora
  • Address: 2195 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78213

26. Garcia’s Mexican Food

Garcia’s Mexican Food is a staple among the Tex-Mex restaurants in San Antonio, known for its straightforward, consistently delicious food. For over 60 years, Garcia’s has been operated by the original owner’s children, who have upheld the quality and excellence their father established. The menu features traditional Tex-Mex favorites like tacos, enchiladas, and chalupas, with their brisket available by the pound or in sandwiches. Garcia’s is celebrated for having some of the best breakfast tacos in San Antonio, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking authentic flavors. If you’re eager to explore more delicious options, be sure to check out our guide on the Mexican Foods.

27. Reese Bros BBQ

Reese Bros BBQ is a significant addition to the San Antonio BBQ scene, quickly establishing itself as one of the best BBQ spots in the city. Founded by brothers Nick and Elliott Reese in 2022, their approach to BBQ began with a series of pop-up events that quickly led to sell-out situations, drawing enthusiastic crowds of BBQ lovers. Now operating from a brick and mortar location, Reese Bros BBQ offers exceptional food characterized by oak-smoked brisket that is delightfully tender and flavor-packed sausages like queso fundido. The sides, such as poblano mac and cheese, okra, and pinto beans, are nearly as famous as the meats, crafted to complement every dish perfectly. For anyone in search of genuine Texas BBQ with a modern twist, Reese Bros provides an unforgettable culinary experience.

  • Website: Reese Bros BBQ
  • Address: 906 Hoefgen Ave, San Antonio, TX 78210

28. Pharm Table

Pharm Table

Pharm Table is not just a restaurant; it’s a commitment to enhancing bodily balance through food that energizes and invigorates. Located in Southtown, this establishment is led by Chef Elizabeth Johnson, who draws on the principles of Ayurveda to create dishes that impact both taste and health benefits. It’s a mostly vegetarian/vegan restaurant that eschews processed sugars, dairy, and wheat products, focusing instead on locally sourced ingredients like vegetables, beans, and some lean protein options. The menu features vibrant dishes such as za’atar crusted fish tacos, oyster mushroom masala, and berry pancakes with a lush blueberry and blackberry compote. Each plate not only delights the palate but also presents a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors. Conveniently, despite being in a busy area, Pharm Table offers a parking validation benefit that allows for free parking, making it an accessible spot even when parking can be a nightmare.

  • Website: Pharm Table
  • Address: 611 S Presa St Suite 106, San Antonio, TX 78210

29. Dashi Sichuan Kitchen


Dashi Sichuan Kitchen, nestled in a strip mall at the corner of Jones Maltsberger and Thousand Oaks, is a powerhouse in San Antonio’s Asian fusion scene, thanks to the culinary prowess of Chef Jian Li. Dashi’s interior, with its velvet seating, Chinese lanterns, dramatic chandeliers, and contemporary epoxy flooring, creates an east-meets-club feel that enhances the dining experience. The menu is a deep dive into Sichuan style cooking, known for its pickling, salting, drying, spicing, and use of chili oil. Highlights include stir-fries, noodle and rice bowls, and Sichuan-specific entrees like wok-seared Mongolia ribeye and spicy cumin lamb lollipops. These dishes are meant to be shared, making every meal at Dashi a communal and memorable culinary journey. For a broader exploration of the region’s cuisine, consider visiting Chinese Restaurants that specialize in different styles and flavors.

30. Shiro Japanese Bistro

Shiro Japanese Bistro
PHOTO CREDIT !yoseisushibar_

Shiro Japanese Bistro stands out as a premier destination for sushi lovers in San Antonio, renowned for elevating the local sushi scene beyond the standard fare to match the quality often reserved for coastal cities. Located at the quieter north end of the Riverwalk, Shiro has not only survived but thrived since its opening during the pandemic, thanks to its high-quality food, beautiful location, and outstanding service. The restaurant specializes in both small plates and traditional Japanese entrees like chicken teriyaki and steak teriyaki, each prepared with an eye for authenticity and a flair for the creative. The sushi and nigiri here are particularly notable; they are larger, fresher, and more colorful than typical offerings, reflecting a mastery that positions Shiro alongside the best in the California sushi weight class. For those on the far northwest side of the city, Shiro’s owners have also opened Yozora Sake and Wine Bar, extending their trademark quality and innovation with a focus on shareable dishes like Crudo, Yakitori, and Wagyu. To explore a wider variety of Asian cuisines, why not visit other Japanese Restaurants in the area?

31. The Magpie

The Magpie, a quaint New American fusion restaurant, is tucked away in a strip mall on San Antonio’s near-East side, defying expectations with its high-caliber offerings. Owned by Chef Sue Kim, whose Korean heritage infuses the menu with subtle Korean flavors, The Magpie is anything but conventional. Described as a free-spirited bistro with global influences, the restaurant excels in creativity and imagination, featuring dishes that encourage sharing and exploration. Notable menu items include the milk bread, seared shrimp with pappardelle noodles, and ribeye, each crafted to surprise and delight. Despite its size and unassuming location, The Magpie attracts a discerning clientele, drawn by its reputation for inventive cuisine and charming ambiance. However, diners should note the parking limitations and reservation system that requires a deposit, which underscores the exclusive experience The Magpie offers.

  • Website: The Magpie
  • Address: 1602 E Houston St Suite 106, San Antonio, TX 78202

32. Krazy Katsu

Krazy Katsu

Krazy Katsu quickly became a sensation in San Antonio with its Japanese-style fried chicken, initially launched from a food trailer in Olmos Park at the Yard Shopping Center in July 2022. The trailer’s success was meteoric, selling over 900 pounds of chicken within the first days of opening. Krazy Katsu is renowned for its herb brined chicken coated in panko crumbs and served on Hawaiian buns, creating enormous, crowd-pleasing sandwiches that are a delight for lunchtime diners. Favorites include the Original with Kung Fu sauce and pickles, and the Last Samurai, featuring Japanese pickled cucumbers and teriyaki bourbon sauce. For those unsure which to choose, sliders offer a chance to sample three different sandwiches on a smaller scale, encouraging guests to explore the variety and often leading to repeat visits. Due to its immense popularity, Krazy Katsu expanded to a brick and mortar location in the Medical Center, making its beloved offerings more accessible on San Antonio’s northwest side.

  • Website: Krazy Katsu
  • Address: 5257 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212