San Antonio Best Food offers a diverse culinary landscape, from Tex-Mex staples to innovative dishes, ensuring a memorable dining experience. At larosafoods.com, you’ll discover a wide range of recipes and culinary insights to enhance your food journey, allowing you to recreate these iconic flavors in your own kitchen. Explore our site for delicious recipes, cooking tips, and nutritional information, and unlock the secrets of San Antonio’s vibrant food culture.
1. Exploring San Antonio’s River Walk: A Culinary Journey
San Antonio’s River Walk, a vibrant pedestrian area in the heart of downtown, is renowned for its picturesque waterways and diverse dining options. This area, designed to prevent flooding, is one level below street level and offers a unique loop connecting numerous downtown attractions. Along the River Walk, you’ll find an array of hotels, shops, and, most notably, a wide selection of restaurants catering to various tastes and preferences.
Schilo’s: A Step Back in Time
Schilo’s, established in 1917, holds the distinction of being San Antonio’s oldest restaurant. While technically located just off the River Walk, its proximity makes it a must-visit. Schilo’s sister restaurant, Casa Rio, is not only on the River Walk but also the oldest restaurant directly on it.
What is the historical background of Schilo’s?
Schilo’s traces its roots to the early 1900s when “Papa” Fritz Schilo opened a saloon in Beeville, Texas. In 1914, the family relocated to San Antonio, bringing their saloon with them. They began serving food in 1917, utilizing Mama Schilo’s cherished recipes. In 1942, Schilo’s moved to its present location during the River Walk’s construction. For three generations, the Schilo family managed the restaurant until 1980, when another German family, the Lyons, acquired it. The Lyons family continues to own and operate Schilo’s, preserving its rich culinary legacy.
What culinary delights can you expect at Schilo’s?
Schilo’s is open for breakfast and lunch, providing a menu that blends German and Texan cuisines, including breakfast and pub fare. Breakfast options range from eggs and hash browns to biscuits and gravy and pancakes. Signature items include Breakfast Schnitzel and Potato Pancakes. Reflecting its Texas location, Schilo’s also features six varieties of tacos. Pub fare consists of sandwiches and an assortment of burgers and dogs. German specialties include three types of Schnitzel, Meatloaf, and a Sausage Platter. The Taste Of Germany offers a comprehensive sampling of these items, accompanied by sauerkraut and German Potato Salad.
What are the must-try items on Schilo’s menu?
For a diverse taste of Schilo’s offerings, the appetizer sampler, Schilo’s Sampler, is highly recommended. It features a soft pretzel, sausage, and their signature Reuben Fritters. These fritters, made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, are breaded and fried to crispy perfection, delivering the essence of a Reuben sandwich in a bite. For a comforting entree, the Chicken and Dumplings is a standout dish, rich with chicken and vegetables. The gravy, distinguished by its deep chicken flavor and low salt content, is a particular highlight. Complementing the meal, Schilo’s Famous Root Beer, made with pure cane sugar, is a superior choice over typical store-bought or fountain versions.
What is the overall dining experience like at Schilo’s?
Schilo’s exudes the charm of an old-style family restaurant. Service is prompt, and the waitresses are known for their friendliness and helpfulness, providing food recommendations and sharing the restaurant’s history. The relaxed atmosphere makes diners feel welcome and unhurried.
Saltgrass Steak House: A Texan Steak Experience
When in Texas, indulging in steak is a must, and Saltgrass Steak House on the River Walk delivers a high-quality steak experience alongside a diverse menu. Saltgrass offers excellent steaks at reasonable prices, making it accessible to many diners.
What is the origin of the name Saltgrass Steak House?
The name Saltgrass is derived from the mid-1800s when millions of Longhorns freely roamed Texas. These cattle were driven to the Texas Gulf Coast to graze on the salt grass. The trail to and from the coast, known as the Salt Grass Trail, became famous for producing the best beef. Saltgrass Steak House aims to capture the exceptional quality of that beef in its offerings.
What are the menu highlights at Saltgrass Steak House?
Saltgrass Steak House provides a comprehensive menu featuring Appetizers, Soup, Salad, & Sandwiches, BBQ, grilled or fried chicken, and seafood. The Paired For You section offers Surf and Turf options. The steak selections include:
- Wagon Boss Center-Cut Top Sirloin
- Pat’s Ribeye
- Maudeen’s Center-Cut Filet
- Bone-in Ribeye
- New York Strip
- Texas T-Bone
- Silver Star Porterhouse
- Snake River Farms Bone-in Wagyu Strip
Steak add-ons include mushrooms and onions, shrimp (grilled, fried, or Cajun), sauteed mushrooms, and a blue cheese bacon topping. According to many steak enthusiasts, a high-quality steak needs no enhancements to be thoroughly enjoyed.
What appetizers and entrees are recommended at Saltgrass Steak House?
Begin your meal with the Queso Fresco, a cheese dip served with tortilla chips, known for its liquid consistency and robust cheese flavor, ideal for dipping. The complimentary bread roll, served with a honey butter, is another delightful starter. For an entree, the Wagyu strip steak, cooked rare and seasoned with Saltgrass’ 7 seasoning spice blend, is a top choice. While some may find the seasoning slightly salty, others appreciate its balanced flavor. Other excellent steak choices include the sirloin. All steaks are praised for being moist, flavorful, and having a good beefy taste. Entrees come with a side of soup or salad; the tortilla soup, filled with crispy tortilla strips and a flavorful broth, is a great option. Alternatives include the Grilled Chicken Breast and Grilled Chicken Salad, both of which receive high praise.
What is the dessert highlight at Saltgrass Steak House?
For dessert, the Pecan Pie Bread Pudding, served in a skillet, is a must-try. It features a crispy exterior and is loaded with pecans and caramel sauce. The pudding is rich and sweet, balanced by vanilla ice cream, making it a heavy yet satisfying dessert to share.
What is the ambiance and service quality at Saltgrass Steak House?
Saltgrass is a popular spot, so expect it to be busy. However, the wait times are generally short, even without a reservation. The service is exceptional, with attentive waiters promptly refilling drinks. The restaurant is accessible from both street level and the River Walk, offering outdoor seating and an indoor lower level with views of the River Walk.
Mr. Ice Cream: A Sweet Treat on the River Walk
Mr. Ice Cream, an ice cream parlor accessible from the River Walk, is conveniently located across the street from Schilo’s. This makes it a perfect spot for a sweet treat after a meal.
What makes Mr. Ice Cream special?
Mr. Ice Cream features Blue Bell Ice Cream, a beloved Texas favorite. The parlor boasts 37 flavors, ranging from classics like Homemade Vanilla, Butter Pecan, and Mint Chocolate Chip to unique options such as Moo-llenium Crunch, Chocolate Peanut Butter Overload, and Krazie Kookie Dough. Several flavors, including Cookie Two Step and Pecan Pralines ‘n Cream, have a distinctive Texas twist.
What ice cream flavors are highly recommended at Mr. Ice Cream?
Opt for the Texas-inspired flavors such as Pecan Pralines ‘n Cream and Dr Pepper Float. The Praline flavor features a sweet, caramel-like base with pecans and praline chunks, offering a delightful mix of tastes and textures. The Dr. Pepper flavor, resembling a sorbet, provides a unique and refreshing taste that is distinctly Texan.
2. Downtown Delights: Beyond the River Walk
San Antonio’s culinary scene extends beyond the River Walk, with numerous restaurants in the downtown area offering diverse dining experiences.
Mi Tierra: A Taste of Mexico
Mi Tierra is a must-visit restaurant in San Antonio, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into Mexico.
What is the history of Mi Tierra?
Founded in 1941 by Pete Cortez, an immigrant from Mexico, and his wife Cruz, Mi Tierra (“My Country”) began at the El Mercado in downtown San Antonio. The restaurant remains family-operated, now in its fourth generation, and continues to be located in El Mercado.
What culinary delights can you find at Mi Tierra?
The menu showcases a wide array of Mexican dishes, including Tacos, Chalupas, Enchiladas, Tamales, and Fajitas. Appetizers feature Nachos, Quesadillas, and Chile con Queso. The appetizer sampler, Botana Platter, is also a popular choice. Soup and salad options include the Mi Tierra Taco Salad and Caldo del Mercado (Tortilla soup). House specialties feature Mexican entrees such as Chile Relleno, Costillas de Res Asadas (Baked Beef Ribs), and Carnitas de Puerco (Baked Pork Tips).
What are the must-try dishes at Mi Tierra?
For an entree, the Chile Relleno is highly recommended. Mi Tierra’s version of this classic Mexican dish features a Poblano pepper stuffed with seasoned ground beef instead of the traditional cheese. Other popular dishes include the Enchilada Dinner and the Deluxe Mexican Dinner, which includes fajitas, a Chicken Enchilada, a Crispy Beef Taco, and a Tamale.
What makes the atmosphere at Mi Tierra so special?
Mi Tierra’s atmosphere is what truly sets it apart. The lighting, decor, and music evoke the feeling of being in Mexico. Mariachi bands wander through the restaurant, performing at tables, and the walls are adorned with beautiful murals, including one depicting Pope Francis and a montage of San Antonio Franciscan missions.
Rosario’s Comida Mex & Bar: A Southtown Staple
Rosario’s Comida Mex & Bar, a staple in Southtown San Antonio, has been serving Mexican cuisine for over 30 years.
What is the history of Rosario’s?
In 1992, Lisa Wong took ownership of Rosario’s, rescuing it from bankruptcy. After outgrowing the original space, she moved the restaurant to its current location. Rosario’s was Lisa’s second restaurant, and she has since become a prominent figure in San Antonio’s restaurant scene.
What are the menu highlights at Rosario’s?
Rosario’s menu includes familiar Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and chalupas. Appetizers feature Nachos, Mexican Street Corn, Ceviche, Guacamole Fresco, and Palmoitas de Coliflor (Mexican style cauliflower). Specialties include Chile Releno, Pollo a La Maria (charbroiled chicken with cilantro pesto), and Guisado de Lengua (beef tongue). Rosario’s is particularly known for its fish tacos and Enchiladas Mexicanas.
What are the recommended dishes at Rosario’s?
Consider trying the Mole Casero, a chicken mole dish, and the Enchilada Mole. Rosario’s mole is known for being sweeter than traditional moles. However, the Fire Roasted Salsa and Chips is a standout, praised for its spiciness and depth of flavor. For dessert, the Tres Leches cake, full of flavor and fruit, is highly recommended.
What is the ambiance and service quality like at Rosario’s?
Rosario’s offers an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, resembling a lounge. The bright colors and stylish paintings create a classy vibe. The service is prompt and attentive, with waiters regularly checking on guests and refilling drinks.
3. The Pearl District: A Modern Culinary Hub
The Pearl District, a recent development in San Antonio built on the site of the Pearl Brewery, is a mixed-use residential and retail area located a few miles north of the River Walk. A walkway along the San Antonio River now connects the two areas.
La Gloria’s: Mexican Street Food at Its Finest
La Gloria’s, situated in the Pearl District, is known for offering some of the best Mexican food in San Antonio, specializing in Mexican street food.
What is the background of La Gloria’s?
Opened in May 2010 by Chef Johnny Hernandez, La Gloria’s was one of the first restaurants to open in the Pearl District. Chef Hernandez, a San Antonio native and Culinary Institute of America graduate, has launched several successful restaurants in the city.
What kind of food does La Gloria’s offer?
La Gloria’s focuses on Mexican street food. The menu includes Tacos, Tlayudas (Mexican Pizzas), Tortas, Quesadillas, Panuchos, Sopes, Ceviches, Molcajetes, Tamales, and Pescado Del Dia (Fish of the Day). Many of these items are authentic street foods that may be unfamiliar to many diners.
What are the must-try dishes at La Gloria’s?
Start with the Chorizo Con Rajas, a rich and flavorful chili con queso with chorizo sausage and roasted Poblano peppers. For an entree, the Arrachera en Adobo, strips of beef in a spicy chili sauce served in a traditional stone bowl (Molcajete), is highly recommended. The beef is tender, and the spices are subtle and complex. Another excellent choice is the Tacos Al Pastor, pork tacos served with vegetables and pineapple.
What is the ambiance and service like at La Gloria’s?
La Gloria’s offers a relaxed, casual atmosphere with ample indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating provides scenic views of the river. The service is fast and attentive, making it possible to enjoy a full meal in under 45 minutes without feeling rushed.
Lick Honest Ice Creams: Farm-to-Scoop Delights
Lick Honest Ice Creams, a “farm to table” ice cream shop, uses fresh, local ingredients and milk sourced from regional dairy farms.
What is the story behind Lick Honest Ice Creams?
Founded by Anthony Sobotik from Texas and Chad Palmatier from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Lick Honest Ice Creams brings the tradition of small-town ice cream shops to Texas. They opened their first shop in Austin in 2011, and the Pearl District location was their first in San Antonio, opening in 2014. Today, they have multiple locations throughout Texas.
What kind of ice cream flavors does Lick Honest Ice Creams offer?
Lick’s menu is relatively small, featuring 8 regular flavors, 2 seasonal flavors, and 4 dairy-free options. The regular flavors include local specialties such as Hill Country Honey & Vanilla Bean, Roasted Beets & Fresh Mint, Caramel Salt Lick, and Goat Cheese, Thyme, and Honey. Seasonal flavors might include Blueberry Crumble and Blackberry, Lime & Basil. The dairy-free options are equally exotic, with flavors like Grapefruit Paloma, Pecan Joy, Peachy Colada, and Chocolate Chocolate.
Which ice cream flavors are highly recommended at Lick Honest Ice Creams?
Opt for the Fresh Mint Chocolate Chunk and Dark Chocolate, Olive Oil & Sea Salt. Both ice creams are rich and creamy. The Dark Chocolate has a deep, complex chocolate flavor, while the mint flavor is noticeable but not overpowering. Together, these two flavors create a fantastic combination.
4. Beyond Downtown: Culinary Gems in San Antonio
San Antonio’s culinary scene extends beyond the downtown area, offering numerous exceptional restaurants worth exploring.
Rudy’s Country Store and Barb-B-Q: A Texas BBQ Tradition
Rudy’s Country Store and Barb-B-Q is a beloved institution in San Antonio, offering classic Texas-style barbecue in a rustic setting.
What is the history of Rudy’s Country Store and Barb-B-Q?
Rudy’s began in the 1800s by Rudolph Aue in Leon Springs, Texas, as a gas station, garage, and grocery store. Bar-B-Q was added in 1989, transforming it into the Rudy’s we know today. With locations throughout Texas and several other states, Rudy’s is a quintessential Texas barbecue experience.
What makes Rudy’s barbecue unique?
Rudy’s serves Texas-style barbecue, where you order meats by the pound at a butcher’s counter. This allows for any combination and quantity of meats.
What meats and sides are highly recommended at Rudy’s?
The meats on Rudy’s menu include classics such as Brisket, Turkey, Ribs, and sausages. Standard sides include Cream Corn, Beans, Cole Slaw, and Mac-N-Cheese. The brisket is tender and moist, and the ribs have great flavor and texture. Rudy’s barbecue sauce is a good complement, but the barbecue is flavorful enough to enjoy without it. The cream corn, made with fresh corn kernels in a thick, creamy white sauce, is a standout side.
What is the dining atmosphere like at Rudy’s?
Rudy’s has a rustic atmosphere with long, wooden picnic tables. There is indoor seating, but outdoor seating is also available, providing a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.
Smoke Shack BBQ: Award-Winning Barbecue
Smoke Shack BBQ is consistently ranked among the best barbecue spots in San Antonio.
What is the story behind Smoke Shack BBQ?
Chris Conger opened the Smoke Shack restaurant on Broadway in 2014, following the success of his food truck, Conger’s Smoke Shack. Since its opening, Smoke Shack has won numerous awards for its barbecue.
What kind of barbecue does Smoke Shack serve?
Smoke Shack is a Texas-style BBQ place where you place your order at the counter and the food is brought to your table. The meat options include Brisket, Pulled Pork, Sausage, Turkey, Ribs, and Chicken. Classic sides include Mac N’ Cheese, Pinto Beans, Spicy Cream Corn, and Fried Okra.
Which meats and sides are highly recommended at Smoke Shack?
The brisket (marbled) and sausage (with cheese) are highly recommended. The brisket is moist and flavorful, and the sausage is moist with a strong cheese flavor. The fried okra and Mac N’ Cheese are also excellent sides. The Mac N’ Cheese has a smoky flavor that sets it apart.
Original Donut Shop: Tacos and Donuts – A Unique Combination
The Original Donut Shop offers a unique combination of tacos and donuts, making it a must-visit spot for breakfast and lunch.
What is the history of the Original Donut Shop?
The Original Donut Shop has been around since 1954. Originally named Hot Donuts, it became a donut shop and added tacos to the menu in 1978. The restaurant is still owned by the Morris family and remains in its original location on Fredericksburg Rd.
What kind of food does the Original Donut Shop offer?
The menu includes tacos, Enchiladas, Chalupas, Fajitas, Flautuas, and breakfast plates such as Huevos Rancheros. However, the tacos are the main attraction, with almost three dozen varieties to choose from. The donuts are also a highlight, with about a dozen varieties available.
What are the must-try items at the Original Donut Shop?
Try the Chorizo and Egg tacos, packed with a delicious blend of eggs and chorizo. For donuts, the Apple Fritter is highly recommended. It’s fresh, moist, and full of apple chunks.
5. San Antonio’s Culinary Inspiration: Cookbooks
To truly immerse yourself in San Antonio’s culinary scene, consider exploring local cookbooks that capture the essence of the city’s flavors.
Los Barrios Family Cookbook
The Los Barrios Family Cookbook is an inspiring collection of home-cooked dishes from the Los Barrios restaurant, a Tex-Mex establishment founded in 1979 by Viola Barrios. The cookbook features recipes not typically found in Mexican restaurants, offering a unique culinary perspective.
Cookin’ with Tequila
Cookin’ with Tequila, while more of a pamphlet than a book, offers some great recipes featuring tequila. Standouts include Red Peppers and Green Beans and Enchanted Scallops, a spicy pan-seared scallops recipe.
6. Five Search Intentions for “San Antonio Best Food”
Understanding the search intentions behind “San Antonio Best Food” can help tailor content to meet user needs effectively. Here are five key search intentions:
- Finding Highly-Rated Restaurants: Users want to discover the best and most popular restaurants in San Antonio based on ratings and reviews.
- Exploring Specific Cuisines: Individuals are interested in identifying restaurants that specialize in particular types of food, such as Tex-Mex, barbecue, or international cuisine.
- Discovering Local Specialties: People seek to find restaurants that offer unique local dishes or regional specialties unique to San Antonio.
- Locating Restaurants by Location: Users want to find the best food options in specific areas or neighborhoods within San Antonio, like the River Walk or Pearl District.
- Seeking Recommendations and Reviews: Individuals are looking for expert recommendations and in-depth reviews of restaurants to make informed dining decisions.
7. Answering Your Questions About San Antonio’s Best Food
What is San Antonio best food known for?
San Antonio is best known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, barbecue, and unique local dishes influenced by its rich cultural heritage.
Where can I find the best Tex-Mex food in San Antonio?
For authentic Tex-Mex, visit Mi Tierra and Los Barrios, known for their traditional recipes and vibrant atmospheres.
What are some must-try dishes in San Antonio?
Must-try dishes include Chile Relleno, Tacos Al Pastor, brisket, and the Pecan Pie Bread Pudding.
Which restaurants should I visit on the River Walk?
On the River Walk, check out Schilo’s for its historic charm and Saltgrass Steak House for its excellent steaks.
What is the Pearl District known for?
The Pearl District is known for its modern culinary scene, featuring restaurants like La Gloria’s and Lick Honest Ice Creams.
Where can I find the best barbecue in San Antonio?
For top-notch barbecue, visit Rudy’s Country Store and Barb-B-Q and Smoke Shack BBQ.
What is unique about San Antonio’s culinary scene?
San Antonio’s culinary scene is unique due to its blend of Texan, Mexican, and European influences, resulting in diverse and flavorful dishes.
Are there any restaurants in San Antonio that offer both tacos and donuts?
Yes, the Original Donut Shop offers a unique combination of tacos and donuts, making it a must-visit spot for breakfast and lunch.
What kind of desserts should I try in San Antonio?
Consider trying the Pecan Pie Bread Pudding at Saltgrass Steak House and the unique ice cream flavors at Lick Honest Ice Creams.
Can I find healthy food options in San Antonio?
Yes, many restaurants in San Antonio offer healthy options, including fresh salads, grilled dishes, and farm-to-table meals at places like Lick Honest Ice Creams.
8. Call to Action: Discover San Antonio’s Culinary Secrets with Larosafoods.com
Ready to explore the flavors of San Antonio? Visit larosafoods.com for a treasure trove of recipes, cooking tips, and nutritional information. Whether you’re craving authentic Tex-Mex, mouthwatering barbecue, or innovative culinary creations, our website provides everything you need to recreate these iconic dishes in your own kitchen.
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