Best Restaurants in San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is not only a popular tourist attraction, but a great spot for local grub as well. From Italian to German to classic Tex-Mex and more, the San Antonio River Walk has it all. Start your day out with some breakfast at an old-standing San Antonio restaurant, wander around for a bit, and stop in for lunch at an adorable Italian restaurant. For dinner, maybe a stop at a German delicatessen? No matter what kind of food you’re in the mood for, the River Walk delivers. Even picky eaters will be happy. 

While there are many restaurants on the River Walk, they don’t all stack up against each other. Popular places tend to bring along tourist trap restaurants, where the food and service both aren’t great. Avoid all that nonsense and go for the real deal- chefs that know what they’re doing, fabulous seating options, and a view of the river walk with no fuss. If you truly want bang for your buck and you’re ready to avoid tourist traps, read on for our top five favorite restaurants in the San Antonio River Walk!

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Saltgrass Steak House

502 River Walk |/ River Walk |/ saltgrass.comhttps://www.saltgrass.com 

As the name suggests, Saltgrass is a steak house specializing in steaks cooked to perfection and delicious sides to match. This is more than just your average steak house- Saltgrass prides itself on being upscale and having high quality ingredients. From mashed potatoes, broccoli, mac and cheese, and multiple types of potatoes, there are many options of sides to match with your main meat dish. The variety of options makes Saltgrass a great choice for families or groups with picky eaters- they’re sure to find something they like among the giant menu. 

The inside is spacious and can accommodate groups of any size. If you like Texas-themed decor, this is definitely the place for you. Enjoy your steaks surrounded by animal heads and old-timey Western paintings. How cute!

Visitors love their prime rib, tortilla soup, steaks, and appetizers. Don’t forget to stop by during happy hour for specials on drinks.

“All the food here is delicious. I miss this place and wish there were one close to home. BBQ ribs were bomb and filet mignon was too. I ordered mashed potatoes and mac n cheese. I recommend the loaded baked potato.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Saltgrass Steak House.

Boudro’s on the Riverwalk

421 E Commerce St |/ Downtown |/ boudros.comhttp://www.boudros.com 

Bourdo’s on the Riverwalk has it all- steaks, seafood, tableside guacamole, and a huge cocktail menu. Sit on the patio and enjoy some modern Tex Mex while perusing their craft cocktail list. This new American bistro is loved by tourists and locals alike- that’s how you know it’s the real deal.

Happy customers come back again and again for great fine dining, wonderful service, and a chill, delightful atmosphere. Boudro’s on the Riverwalk is great for families, groups, or even a romantic date night! The place is lively and always full- never a dull moment, and never a dull bite. The portions are sizable and will fill you up, so make sure to leave room for dessert.

Visitors love their wood-baked fish, shrimp and grits, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and wood-grilled Atlantic salmon. Yum!

“Recommended as a popular choice along the San Antonio Riverwalk restaurants, Boudro's was excellent!  Lunch selections were creative, tasty and plentiful, everything from sandwiches to variety of meat and seafood entrees! We had professional, friendly and efficient service, and tables were packed on a sunny Saturday afternoon for lunch hour on the patio!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Boudro’s on the Riverwalk.

Paesanos Riverwalk

111 W Crockett St #101 |/ Riverwalk |/ paesanosriverwalk.comhttps://www.paesanosriverwalk.com 

Perhaps you’re more in the mood for Italian food. Not to fear- Paesanos Riverwalk has you covered! The restaurant serves upscale traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. Of course, there’s also a long wine list to pair with your pastas or other entrees. Ask the waiters for their favorite pairings- they know best.

If it’s a nice day out, Paesanos also offers outdoor dining with a wonderful view of the river walk. A fresh Italian salad, wine, and pasta with a view of the riverwalk simply can’t be beat. Sit back, relax, and enjoy quiet Italian music. 

Locals and tourists come back for the fabulous servers, calm atmosphere, and delicious Italian dishes. Whether you’re new to Italian food or consider yourself an expert, Paesanos is sure to deliver. They’ve been around for a while. 

Visitors love their scallops, cocktails, and delicious pastas.

“Excellent service and atmosphere. The bartender (an older gentleman) was funny and fast. We ordered a ton of take out and it was hot, fresh and delicious.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Paesanos Riverwalk and Restaurant Group.

Schilo’s Delicatessen

424 E Commerce St |/ Downtown |/ schilos.comhttps://schilos.com/menu 

In a gorgeous old building from the 19th century, you’ll find Schilo’s Delicatessen. This place is long standinglongstanding on the San Antonio River Walk- it’s been around forever, and for good reason. Schilo’s serves hearty German sandwiches, soups, and their classic homemade root beer. 

A great lunch or dinner spot, Schilo’s has seating for everyone and a calm, relaxed atmosphere. No need to dress up here! Locals have been supporting the restaurant for decades- it’s a landmark on the riverwalk, a great spot for a quick bite or a longer conversation over sandwiches and soup. On a chilly day, this is the place to be. 

Prices are reasonable, the staff is lovely, and the spicy mustard is to die for. What’s not to love? 

Locals love their pretzels, sandwiches, root beer, and spicy mustard.

“The ambiance, the food, the staff service, were all amazing. I get why this is the oldest restaurant in San Antonio and why they are still busy and knocking it out of the park.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Schilo’s Delicatessen. 

Casa Rio

430 E Commerce St |/ Downtown |/ casario.comhttps://www.casario.com/our-menu 

Casa Rio has been a San Antonio River Walk staple since 1946. Serving classic Tex-Mex dishes, margaritas, and more, Casa Rio is the spot to be for delicious and cheap Mexican food. If you’re searching for a spot with a view, Casa Rio also suffices- their outdoor seating gives a great view of the river walk over your chips and salsa.

The inside of the restaurant is colorful and bright, a playful spot with lots of open seating and large windows. Casual and chic, Casa Rio is modern Tex-Mex at its finest (and most affordable!) Groups, couples, and families can be accommodated inside or outside, but beware- Casa Rio tends to be busy, so you may want to call ahead and make a reservation. 

Locals love the chicken enchiladas, shrimp tacos, and fajitas. 

“Nice environment and plenty of shady seating along the Riverwalk. Definitely more Tex-Mex than authentic Mexican cuisine (as far as San Antonio/South Texans would attest to), but plenty of options to choose from on both the food and drink menu. If you're lucky, you'll get a mariachi group playing outside!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Casa Rio. 

There you have it- our five favorite San Antonio restaurants on the River Walk. Did we miss your favorite San Antonio River Walk restaurant? Let us know in the comments!