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It is so easy to enjoy the best lunch in San Antonio, Texas, with style. Whether you’re simply seeking good food or both fantastic fare and fun, this city boasts many venues to amaze you, like the world-famous Riverwalk, Historic Market Square, or the trendy Pearl district.
My article will show you the most reliable eateries to find in those places. Still, such restaurants can come with a long wait or charge relatively high prices. That’s why I also incorporate popular names in other areas that won’t cost you as much time or money.
Hungry in San Antonio? Check Out These Top Lunch Picks
There are so many places to have lunch in San Antonio that you will need some time to learn about them all. Therefore, take a quick look at this list first.
- Southerleigh Fine Food And Brewery – San Antonio
- Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia
- Cured – San Antonio
- The Cove
- Best Quality Daughter
- Pete’s Tako House
- Cappy’s Restaurant
- Domingo Restaurant
- Pollos Asados Los Nortenos
- The Original Blanco Cafe
- Down On Grayson
- Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse – San Antonio
- Station Cafe
- La Panaderia
- 210 Ceviche Seafood and Mariscos
- La Fonda on Main
- Schilo’s
- The Guenther House
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – San Antonio
- Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse – San Antonio
- Boudro’s on the Riverwalk
- Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar – San Antonio
- Magnolia Pancake Haus
- Green Vegetarian Cuisine
- Comfort Cafe San Antonio
- Sangria on the Burg
- Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina
- Chris Madrids
- Smoke Shack
- 2M Smokehouse
Lunching Like A Local in San Antonio At These Spots!
The Texas city’s diverse food scene guarantees something for every eater, regardless of their diet, budget, preferred cuisine, or favorite setting. It’s discovery time!
1. Southerleigh Fine Food And Brewery – San Antonio
Southerleigh is a small chain of upscale restaurants specializing in Texas cuisine. Those restaurants serve top-notch beer produced in their own breweries.
Why choose this restaurant:
San Antonio’s historic Pearl Brewery is teeming with excellent lunch restaurants, and Southerleigh Fine Food And Brewery is probably the crown jewel. Situated on the ground floor of the famous brewery complex and next to the renowned Hotel Emma, it is a dining venue not to miss.
This charming restaurant offers Southern comfort food mixed flawlessly with seafood delicacies from Galveston. These tempting dishes will become ten times tastier when you pair them with freshly baked bread and daily cold brews, other delights that create Southerleigh’s reputation.
What to eat:
Southerleigh can see a lot of lunchtime traffic, but it’s worth braving the crowd. Let’s start with the legendary appetizers: Southerleigh’s snapper throats (seasoned with lemon, crystal aioli, and celery root remoulade) and wood-fired pretzels.
Next, you should enjoy steak frites, fried chicken (with the signature biscuits and gravy), and Galveston’s shrimp boil. Having the famous cornbread or cheesy jalapeños grits on the side is also a great idea.
Location: 136 E Grayson St, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://www.southerleigh.com/
Phone: +12104555701
2. Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia
World-famous for its festive decor, tasty Tex-Mex baked goods, and historical value, Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia is one of the most iconic restaurants in San Antonio.
Why choose this restaurant:
From a nondescript three-table cafe founded in 1941, this eatery is now a legendary venue for fun and delicious grub. It welcomes huge crowds and long lines of eager patrons, so you may not have a quick lunch here. But if you’re looking for excitement, there are few better places.
Given its location in Market Square and just a short walk from the most lively portion of Riverwalk, the prices can get a little off-putting. But you will forget it once immersed in the upbeat atmosphere teeming with alluring tunes from live mariachi bands.
At the entrance of Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia is a colossal ornate ofrenda (altar), adorned with various photos, statues, and candles. If you find it colorful, prepare for the grand display of vibrant hues from holiday lights, neon signs, and streamers in the brightly lit interior.
This surreal cafe is truly a place to give your eyes a feast, but the pleasure doesn’t stop there. You can chill out at the spacious bar area or visit the bakery in the front – a mecca for Mexican sweet pastries.
What to eat:
While some think Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia has more entertainment value than culinary appeal, you can still find delicious items on the diverse menu. For example, the Botana Platter, with various flautas, enchiladas, and quesadillas, is a nice choice to sate your appetite.
Location: 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207
Website: https://www.mitierracafe.com/
Phone: +12102251262
3. Cured – San Antonio
Charcuterie boards, with an elaborate display of smoked meat, are the name of the game at this trendy New American restaurant.
Why choose this restaurant:
Are you familiar with whole-animal cooking? Simply put, this approach uses not only popular cuts of meats but also offcuts and offals in cooking. And it is delicious. If you don’t believe me, the chick-rustic Cured will vindicate my claim.
This beautiful restaurant offers various charcuterie options, with meat cured from 2 to 10 months. Upon entrance, you will be greeted with a large charcuterie case displaying aromatic cuts of chicken, beef, duck, sausage, and more.
While housed in a historical building dating back to 1904, Cured wonderfully blends that elegant vibe and aesthetically pleasing interior with a very casual and friendly setting. There are no tablecloths or uniforms for staff members: everything and everyone just follows the way they are.
So if you’re looking for a combined experience of farm-to-table eating, a delightful atmosphere, and delish dishes, Cured will fit the bill nicely.
What to eat:
Fried chicken livers with lemon aioli are an unbeatable starter. For the main course, you can try heritage hog poutine (consisting of Wisconsin cheddar curds), smoked chicken and andouille gumbo (served with popcorn rice), or shrimp po’boy.
As for the charcuterie board, I strongly recommend hogs head cheese, chicken liver mousse, and lamb salami as extra ingredients.
Location: 306 Pearl Pkwy #101, San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://www.curedatpearl.com/
Phone: +12103143929
4. The Cove
This family-friendly restaurant is the local go-to destination for live music (usually for dinner), refreshing beer, and American eats made with organic ingredients. It also has a laundromat and car wash.
Why choose this restaurant:
If you plan to have lunch with little ones, few places can rival the charm of The Cove. It boasts a massive outdoor play area with coverings and plenty of space for energetic kids to run around. The spacious dog-friendly patio with lots of long picnic tables is another inviting feature.
But to order from this rustic restaurant’s impressive menu, you have to reach the counter in the air-conditioned interior. Some patrons comment that you can’t see the playground from the counter, so remember to keep an eye out.
Anyway, whether you choose to eat outside or in the beautifully decorated room, countless health-beneficial menu items will be yours to enjoy. Innovative burgers are the mainstay of the menu, while vegan and gluten-free dishes are also high in number.
What to eat:
Vegan Texan burgers with refried beans, tortilla chips, salsa, and other Tex-Mex ingredients are to die for. But the vegan bacon cheeseburgers with crispy tofu bacon and vegan mayo are no less alluring.
The Cove also offers lunch specials between 11 AM and 3 PM from Tuesday to Friday. Lisa fish tacos or cheddar bacon burgers are fantastic dishes to order during that period.
Location: 606 W Cypress St, San Antonio, TX 78212
Website: https://thecove.us/
Phone: +12102272683
5. Best Quality Daughter
Opened by a second-generation Chinese-American chef, Best Quality Daughter delivers Asian fusion dishes in the glamorous space of the Pearl Brewery.
Why choose this restaurant:
Before indulging yourself with this funky restaurant’s creative blend of Chinese and American food, feast your eyes on its attractive decor first. Pink is the dominant color, giving you the impression of dining in a life-sized dollhouse.
The colorful wallpapers on the walls, mellow lights from the ceiling, fortune signs in neon lights, and antique furniture will amplify the cuteness. When the relaxing ambiance has put you in a good mood, the sweet and smiling staff members will serve you intensely flavorful eats.
What to eat:
Before ordering, remember that Best Quality Daughter’s fare consists of fusion dishes, not authentic Chinese ones. To discover its full potential, you can try choices like dan dan noodles with beef guisada, cashew chicken, Taiwanese popcorn chicken, or roasted brussels sprouts.
Location: 602 Avenue A, San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://www.bestqualitydaughter.com/
Phone: +12108194236
6. Pete’s Tako House
Originally founded in 1978, this family-run restaurant makes a name for itself as one of the highest-rated Tex-Mex eateries in San Antonio. It is open for breakfast and lunch.
Why choose this restaurant:
Pete’s Tako House used to lie on Broadway Avenue before being relocated to 502 Brooklyn Ave. It is easily accessible from the famed San Antonio Riverwalk. While that presents many possibilities for fun, note that you can find this place somewhat loud due to its concrete floor.
This pleasant restaurant has established a very loyal fan base throughout its long history. Some of its regulars are customers from the first days, back in the 1970s! When you experience the homely ambiance and made-from-scratch food this place can offer, you will join them, too.
What to eat:
My biggest recommendation is Pete’s Plate with cheese enchiladas, carne guisada, Spanish rice, and beans. To elevate your experience, you should also try fideo loco (Mexican soup with ground beef and whole beans) or tacos with homemade tortillas and machacado (dried beef).
This restaurant also offers lunch specials on weekdays and brunch specials on weekends. You can visit the website to find out more about them.
Location: 502 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://petestakohouse.com/
Phone: +12102242911
7. Cappy’s Restaurant
Mixing both upscale and casual vibes, Cappy’s Restaurant is a fine American restaurant suitable for every patron group.
Why choose this restaurant:
Don’t let this restaurant’s “fine dining” label intimate you: its artsy decor incorporates elements of relaxing comfort that everyone will fall in love with. Another highlight is the heated outdoor patio overlooking a spacious plant-filled area.
Cappy’s Restaurant specializes in seasonal fare, especially steak and seafood. It also boasts an impressive selection of wines and craft cocktails. While you can have a spectacular lunch at this destination, its brunch is even more sought-after. Perhaps you can return on the weekends to try.
What to eat:
Your lunch can’t go wrong with Jumbo lump blue crab cake, old water lobster tail grilled with American cheese and served with sourdough bread, wild isles salmon, and mustang chicken with horseradish crusts. For desserts, a sticky toffee pudding will deliver a grand finale.
Location: 5011 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Website: https://www.cappysrestaurant.com/
Phone: +12108289669
8. Domingo Restaurant
Are you looking for a fine restaurant with breathtaking riverfront views? While San Antonio has plenty of such eateries, few serve the flavors of South Texas as authentically as Domino Restaurant.
Why choose this restaurant:
A spectacular vista of the Riverwalk, a stunningly beautiful patio, and an idyllic interior with vibrant colors aren’t the only wonders you’ll enjoy here, though these things make it a dream-like venue for special lunches or parties.
And special your meal will be because this place is on the pricey and fancy side. But you can enjoy a wide range of slurp-worthy South Texas staples and tasty Mexican eats. Don’t forget to check out the on-site Otro Bar, which boasts varied cocktail offerings from skilled and witty bartenders.
Many patrons describe cinnamon-topped churros waffles as the restaurant’s best treat, but they are only available on the breakfast and brunch menus. Keep this option in mind if you visit this eatery at another time.
What to eat:
Must-try lunch items include tuna tostadas with mashed avocados, Baja-style fish tacos, and short rib quesadillas with salsa and Asadero cheese.
Location: 123 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://www.domingorestaurant.com/
Phone: +12104047516
9. Pollos Asados Los Nortenos
This no-frills Mexican restaurant offers authentic mesquite-grilled food at an extremely fair price.
Why choose this restaurant:
While Pollos Asados Los Nortenos is always full of guests, from curious tourists to local police stopping here for a quick lunch, the attentive staff ensures that the food comes out fast and your wait won’t be longer than necessary.
As pollos asados mean “grilled chicken” in Spanish, it is the star of this restaurant. The aromatic scent of Mexican spices combines with the sound of the cleaver working its way through the juicy chicken to create a delicious sensation that will keep your stomach grumbling.
The glass-walled grill room is in front of the building, outfitted with large windows allowing you to watch the cooks in action. It is near the outdoor patio, where you can savor your shiny, orange-skinned comfortably.
What to eat:
You can order half or a whole grilled chicken with sides and condiments. The salsa verde seems to be the most popular choice, followed by charro beans, corn tortillas, and grilled jalapeno lime. Fajitas and hamburgers with grilled meat are also must-try offerings.
Website: https://www.polloslosnortenos.com/
Location 1:
Address: 4642 Rigsby Ave, San Antonio, TX 78222
Phone: +12106483303
Location 2:
Address: 4822 Walzem Rd, San Antonio, TX 78218
Phone: +12104814168
10. The Original Blanco Cafe
You can find many tasty dishes for lunch at this laid-back Tex-Mex eatery in downtown San Antonio.
Why choose this restaurant:
The Original Blanco Cafe has been a local landmark since 1974. Its location near the Medical Center makes it a great stop for anyone traveling to the area. But even if you don’t have a doctor’s appointment, it’s still worth coming here to experience the incredible warmth and tasty bites.
You can find many special dishes for lunch, which change daily. In addition, the restaurant is also one of the most popular breakfast restaurants in San Antonio, with many all-day breakfast items.
What to eat:
Cheese enchiladas with house-made tortillas, chicken fried steak with corn and mashed potatoes, and salsa-topped steak rancheros served with tortillas are my recommendations for lunch.
Location: 7934 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229
Website: https://theoriginalblancocafe.com/
Phone: +12106923233
11. Down On Grayson
Joining the Historic Pearl’s food scene in 2016, this quaint restaurant delivers a mix of classic and innovative American fare in a pretty setting.
Why choose this restaurant:
There are many things to love about this rustic restaurant, from the roomy dining room with plenty of natural light to the even more spacious patio. The latter has oak trees and umbrellas for hot weather and heaters and fire pits for cold one.
Enjoying your delicious American bites next to a roaring fire while chilly winds blow by overhead can be a fantastic experience. Down On Grayson is also highly dog-friendly, offering your furry friends water and lots of space to lounge around.
In case you want to get tipsy, the full bar with multiple choices of wine, beer, and cocktails is here to please you. I’m certain all those charms can make up for its only drawback: the place can get quite busy at lunch.
What to eat:
Many patrons praise the crispy brussels sprouts and strawberry cakes as phenomenal, so perhaps your palate will love a chance to meet them. Fried grouper sandwiches with champagne vinaigrette slaw and chicken tortilla soups are the best main dishes to savor.
Location: 303 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215
Website: https://www.downongrayson.com/
Phone: +12102489244
12. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse – San Antonio
Fogo de Chão is a Brazil-based chain of Brazilian all-you-can-eat steak restaurants (churrascaria) with an international reputation. The San Antonio store serves weekday lunch between 11 AM and 2 PM.
Why choose this restaurant:
Texas is the land of superb steak, but how about diversifying your menu with fire-roasted steak from South Brazil? And the best place to try it is this spacious high-end steakhouse full of elegant vibes. You can’t go wrong with holding a special party or anniversary here.
Even better, the restaurant boasts many private dining rooms for increased intimacy. Check out the River Room with a glass wall showing a panoramic view of downtown San Antonio.
While most restaurants only have happy hour for a limited time and usually not on lunch, the deal happens all day at Bar Fogo. Feel free to elevate your midday meal with Latin American cocktails and wines!
What to eat:
Whether you like beef tenderloin, linguica (spicy pork sausage), cordeiro (lamb chops), or bacon-wrapped chicken and steak, Fogo de Chão can make it happen. Premium Wagyu cuts are available if you sign up for a more expensive combo.
The extensive salad bar with fruits, seasonal soups, and other things besides just salads is another attractive hook.
Location: 849 E Commerce St #393, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://fogodechao.com/
Phone: +12102271700
13. Station Cafe
In 2011, this unassuming restaurant moved to its current location in the King William Historic District. Since then, it has catered to sandwich lovers, both local and from far away.
Why choose this restaurant:
Originally a modest sandwich shop, Station Cafe is now a cute little cafe with comfy chairs on the glazed earthen floors, colorful walls with eye-pleasing wallpapers, and ample green space for outdoor seating. My favorite part is a giant kitten that fixes its big eyes on patrons.
While you can enjoy various salads and baked bread, sandwiches are still Station Cafe’s heart and soup. Full of diverse flavors, they come in very generous sizes at prices that will make everyone lunching on a budget smile.
What to eat:
Pele’s Fire sandwiches with the house-made Ghost Pepper sauce will stimulate your taste buds significantly. Meanwhile, you should also order sweet and spicy turkey chupacabra sandwiches, habanero roast beef with melted mozzarella, and Station muffuletta sandwiches (turkey and salami).
Location: 108 King William St, San Antonio, TX 78204
Website: https://thestationsa.com/
Phone: +12104442200
14. La Panaderia
Speaking of the best cafes-bakeries in San Antonio, it won’t do to omit this Mexican name, which began to captivate foodies in 2013.
Why choose this restaurant:
Latin American artisan bread for lunch, why not? Especially when it comes from the 48-hour fermentation process that characterizes La Panaderia’s fare, and the bread is served in the restaurant’s welcoming space.
In recognition of its excellent quality, USA Today’s 10 Best website listed it as one of North America’s best artisanal bakeries. La Panaderia’s specialties are pan dulce (Mexican sweet pastries) and handmade bread, plus fusion baking and seasonal treats for festivities.
What to eat:
Anyone who thinks that pan dulce can’t satisfy their lunch cravings should try bear claws (sweet, yeast-raised pastry), conchas (Mexican sweet bread roll with a seashell-like look), or croissants with ham and cheese.
But if you prefer something more substantial, check out the French toast with scrambled eggs, avocado toast with grilled chicken, or various kinds of tortas (crusty rolls with meat and veggie fillings).
Website: https://lapanaderia.com/
Location 1:
Address: 301 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Phone: +12105926264
Location 2:
Address: 8305 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Phone: +12103756746
Location 3:
Address: 17030 Fiesta Texas Dr, Suite 105, San Antonio, TX 78256
Phone: +12106004460
15. 210 Ceviche Seafood and Mariscos
Let’s refresh your palate with the sharp and savory flavors of Mexican coastal cuisine at this place, one of San Antonio’s foremost seafood restaurants.
Why choose this restaurant:
Opened in 2013 by an uncle and nephew duo from Mazatlan, Mexico, 210 Ceviche Seafood and Mariscos is one of the few destinations in San Antonio where you can experience the authentic freshness of the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
Besides seafood-based delights, the menu also covers a number of Mexican classics. This restaurant boasts a fun sports bar atmosphere, thanks in no small part to the impressive selection of margaritas and karaoke on Saturday nights.
What to eat:
Tacos Baja (fish or shrimp tacos with beer batter), tacos sirloin, and tacos 210 (the same as tacos Baja, but added with bacon and cream cheese) are the real stars. You should also try the ceviche sampler showcasing the restaurant’s best ceviches.
In addition, 210 Ceviche Seafood and Mariscos features changeable lunch specials. Feel free to ask the staff members for suggestions on what to try today.
Location: 9502 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78230
Website: https://ceviche210.menufy.com/
Phone: +12105939300
16. La Fonda on Main
Founded in 1932, La Fonda on Main is the oldest Mexican restaurant in San Antonio. It has many fabulous delicacies and margaritas to match its illustrious history.
Why choose this restaurant:
Many patrons find it a magical experience to have dinner in La Fonda on Main’s courtyard when the twinkling lights on the trees are on, but I guarantee the place is just as idyllic at lunch. The lush greenery surrounding the shaded patio gives you an excellent venue for al fresco dining.
While the spacious outdoor patio has coverings and heaters, it is only available on days with nice weather. In case you can’t use it, the hacienda-style dining room with swanky decor and upscale ambiance is a fantastic alternative.
What to eat:
Try the tacos made with corn tortillas and La Fonda’s signature salsa. There are several variations: bistek (prime beef), pato (slow-roasted duck), and pescado (fresh catch).
For more diverse options, you can ask for campechana (seafood with pasilla chile sauce), caldo tlalpeño (chicken soup with rice and vegetables), or La Fonda special enchiladas.
Location: 2415 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Website: https://www.lafondaonmain.com/
Phone: +12107330621
17. Schilo’s
This classic German name certainly tops any list of the best European restaurants along the Riverwalk.
Why choose this restaurant:
No restaurant in San Antonio is older than this one, which opened its door in 1917. For more than a century, it has been the go-to destination for filling German dishes, especially deli sandwiches, and root beer. Still, American fare also has a growing presence on the menu.
For lunch, the most popular items are sandwiches, with the option to make your own. Schilo’s careful selection of quality ingredients ensures a yummy meal. Whatever you order, don’t forget a cup (or keg) of the renowned root beer: it’s delicious, non-alcoholic, and gluten-free.
The vintage setting befitting the long history is another appealing feature. The restaurant is located in an 1800s-style house, with wood-carved booths, aging concrete walls, an antique phone booth, and old postcards detailing the early days of the famed eatery.
What to eat:
The signature split soup, Reuben sandwiches (with corned beef and sauerkraut), patty melt sandwiches (with bacon and grilled rye), and Riverwalk Kraut hot dogs (with sauerkraut and pickle relish) are to die for.
Location: 424 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://schilos.com/
Phone: +12102236692
18. The Guenther House
Open for breakfast and lunch, this classy restaurant near the Riverwalk is a reliable source of American comfort food. It also boasts a small museum, bakery, and gift shop.
Why choose this restaurant:
The Guenther House may not be the oldest eatery in the city, but it is housed in a gorgeous mansion built in 1860 and adorned with a graceful allure. While there are many gorgeous historic buildings in the area, none can outshine this Art Nouveau-style beauty.
You can be in for a long wait at this place, whether you go there for brunch or lunch. But this renowned dining venue boasts many delights to help you pass the time: you can head upstairs to visit the tiny museum with cool artifacts and photos of the history of this place.
Alternatively, the spacious courtyard with verdant greenery always welcomes guests seeking a breath of fresh air. Children can happily chase each other around while you can sign up for a cornhole game on the lush lawn.
What to eat:
My recommendations for lunch are champagne chicken enchiladas served with seasonal fruits, grilled chicken breast sandwiches, and signature Pioneer taco salads (consisting of grilled chicken breasts). Freshly baked pastries and quiches of the day will end your meal nicely.
Location: 205 E Guenther St, San Antonio, TX 78204
Website: https://www.guentherhouse.com/
Phone: +12102271061
19. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – San Antonio
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is part of the Pappadeaux Restaurants, a Houston-based restaurant chain. It specializes in New Orleans-style seafood and other dishes.
Why choose this restaurant:
Although the price tag of Pappadeaux’s menu may seem extravagant at first, the unrivaled quality of top-notch seafood improved with Cajun seasoning is totally worth your money. The luxurious air and various beverage choices, like the Three Wheel Motion cocktail, are equally addictive.
What to eat:
Crispy alligator with Creole sauce-dipped potato sticks, Louisiana gumbo with andouille sausage and seafood, shrimp and crawfish fondeaux, and pasta Mardi Gras (with linguine, seafood, cremini mushrooms, etc.) are my top picks to enjoy the New Orleans goodness.
Location 1:
Address: 76 NE Interstate 410 Loop, San Antonio, TX 78216
Website: https://pappadeaux.com/
Phone: +12103407143
Location 2:
Address: 15715 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257
Website: https://pappadeaux.com/
Phone: +12106411171
20. Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse – San Antonio
While Fogo de Chão is an international brand, this unskippable steakhouse in San Antonio caters specifically to American eaters in love with Brazilian steak. It has four locations in the country.
Why choose this restaurant:
Chama Gaucha won’t make for an economical lunch (it’s a fine Brazilian steakhouse, after all), but it’s sure to give you an unforgettable one. Take the example of the impressive salad bar: there are over 30 items of seasonal fruits, exotic greens, and things to steal a vegetarian’s heart.
Gaucho chefs (trained Brazilian chefs) may not be a draw for guests elsewhere, but Chama Gaucha is no such place. Its chefs carry large chunks of well-seasoned meat vertically on a large skewer and slice them skillfully for each guest.
There are a dozen meat varieties in total, ranging from premium beef to chicken and lamb. Accompanying them are numerous sides and desserts that you will fondly remember for a long time.
The lunch menu at Chama Gaucha is open on weekdays, commencing at 11 AM. The last seating is at 2:30 PM, but you can continue enjoying your meal afterward.
What to eat:
The house specialty is picanha, the prime cut of the sirloin. You can also try ribeye or filet mignon cuts with sea salt. For other kinds of meat, filet mignon e frango (chicken breasts/ filets wrapped in bacon) or porco (pork ribs) are a revelation.
Location: 18318 Sonterra Pl, San Antonio, TX 78258
Website: https://www.chamagaucha.com/
Phone: +12105649400
21. Boudro’s on the Riverwalk
This Riverwalk gem is a first-rate bistro that has adorned the local culinary landscape since 1986.
Why choose this restaurant:
Known for its Tex-Mex and Southwestern specialties, Boudro’s on the Riverwalk can easily sneak its way into your heart and enchant you with its remarkable fare and buoyant vibes. Moreover, the ceiling-to-floor wine racks of over 7,000 bottles are surely a sight to impress.
This place offers outstanding indoor and outdoor seating. The interior is equipped with limestone walls and polished wood tables, while you can feel a nice breeze and have a clear view of boats gliding on the San Antonio or catch a traveling mariachi band if dining outside.
What to eat:
Enchiladas verdes with chicken breasts, corn tortillas, salsa, and sour cream is the first lunch item to come to my mind. But chicken and tortilla caldo, blue crab tostadas, and pulled pork sandwiches are no less mouth-watering.
Location: 421 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://www.boudros.com/
Phone: +12102248484
22. Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar – San Antonio
It’s time to break away from the Riverwalk and the Pearl. Come to The Shops at La Cantera, and you can try farm-to-table American eats in a splendid space at Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar.
Why choose this restaurant:
Since 2014, locals and tourists to San Antonio have flocked to this spacious and funky restaurant to savor innovative dishes crafted with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, the likes of which you can get from a farmers market.
Beautiful appetizers, small plates, salads, and grilled meats are the eatery’s strongest suits. But as the name suggests, its beverage menu and upbeat, bar-like atmosphere are other appeals to experience. You can easily elevate your lunch with a whiskey cocktail or even a whiskey flight.
What to eat:
Familiar dishes take on a killer appeal at this place: try deviled eggs, shrimps and grits, fried green tomatoes, or bone-in-pork chops, and judge them yourselves.
Meanwhile, the Three Little Pigs (slider rolls stuffed with pulled pork and slaw) is the best combo, while no one can resist the namesake whisky cakes enriched with house-made whipped cream.
Location: 15900 La Cantera Pkwy Suite 21200, San Antonio, TX 78256
Website: https://whiskeycake.com/
Phone: +12102368095
23. Magnolia Pancake Haus
While this reputable restaurant is on the list of San Antonio’s most famous brunch spots, its weekday lunch menu, available from 11 AM to 2 PM, is a delight on its own.
Why choose this restaurant:
Founded in 2000, Magnolia Pancake Haus had long been a San Antonio icon before appearing in prestigious food shows and publications, such as Southern Living, Texas Monthly, or Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on the Food Network.
However, seeing is not necessarily believing. You need to come to this place yourself, walk around the spacious dining room oozing out comfort, feel the quaint yet friendly ambiance, and sink your teeth into its many rich dishes to truly appreciate it.
While Magnolia Pancake Haus frequently experiences long lines of guests, you can use the Yelp waitlist to save time.
What to eat:
While you won’t find many well-known staples on the lunch menu, your taste buds will be delighted with signature Haus burgers (with brisket patties, Haus chips, and potato salad), Reuben sandwiches (corned beef served on rye bread), and organic strawberry chicken salads.
Website: https://www.magnoliapancakehaus.com/
Location 1:
Address: 10333 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78240
Phone: +12104960828
Location 2:
Address: 606 Embassy Oaks #100, San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: +12104960828
24. Green Vegetarian Cuisine
Vegetarians, don’t fret! I’ve got a place that serves palatable plant-based Southern food for you. It is housed in the Alamo Quarry Market, the famous shopping mall in an old cement factory.
Why choose this restaurant:
Green Vegetarian Cuisin’s cheerful decor with a chic-industrial flair to it is very enjoyable to explore, but the real bomb is the food. From delish bites looking just like their meat-based counterparts to healthy dishes with lots of greens, you can use many ways to make your menu healthier.
What to eat:
Cauliflower wings and spicy beef wraps are a few fantastic options to trick your palate. The Med bowl with flour tortillas, quinoa tabouli, kale salad, and various veggies also deserves the spotlight. For desserts, you can’t go wrong with cupcakes in multiple flavors.
Location: 255 E Basse Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209
Website: https://www.eatatgreen.com/
Phone: +12103205865
25. Comfort Cafe San Antonio
This non-profit cafe belongs to the Serenity Star recovery program for drug and alcohol and drug addiction.
Why choose this restaurant:
Comfort Cafe San Antonio is donation-based only, meaning there is no price list. Instead, you can pay what you can to support the recovering addicts benefiting from this cafe, whose all proceeds will go into helping them.
Though many people consider this place a top-tier brunch spot, it serves highly-rated lunch. You will enjoy your meal in a serene, plant-filled space, with soothing music from the 1980s – 1990s in the air.
The staff members are all volunteers who want to make a difference, so you can feel the love and compassion they put into their work. In addition, the enormous portion they serve can put numerous commercial eateries to shame.
However, the cafe is only open from Friday to Saturday, between 8 AM and 4 PM. Booking a place on the Yelp wait list is very recommended. This place only accepts cash and checks, but you can easily find ATMs nearby.
What to eat:
Pancakes with sweet and savory toppings and the Alamo burgers with bacon, shredded salsa, cheddar, and fried eggs are a few tempting treats to enjoy. For a to-go meal, you can order an Everything Bagel grilled cheese sandwich.
Location: 2015 NE Interstate 410 Loop, San Antonio, TX 78217
Website: https://www.serenitystar.org/
Phone: +15123602100
26. Sangria on the Burg
Sangrias and margaritas aren’t the only delights you can find at Sangria on the Burg: this lively eatery offers top-notch tacos and BBQ sliders.
Why choose this restaurant:
At this no-frills restaurant, the lunch menu is available from 11 AM – 4 PM on weekdays (except for Monday). You can enjoy many appetizers, salads, sliders, and desserts with Tex-Mex flavors in a casual setting.
Given the eatery’s enormous fame for beverages, you can add a drink or two to elevate your lunch experience. Even better, order a sangria, mimosa, and margarita flight and let fun course through your veins!
What to eat:
For lunch, I highly recommend brisket nachos (with charro beans and guacamole), Sangria taco bowls (taco ingredients mixed with jasmine rice, spring mix, and roasted salsa), and Texas sliders with brisket beef patties. Regarding drinks, grapefruit sangrias or mango margaritas are phenomenal.
Location: 5115 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229
Website: http://www.sangriaontheburg.com/
Phone: +12102653763
27. Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina
The category of memorable Mexican restaurants in San Antonio goes on with this famous name, which has been around since 1992.
Why choose this restaurant:
If you want to eat somewhere off the touristy part of the Riverwalk but not too far from the fun, head to the Southtown Historic District and check out Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina. Warning: it is very loud and full of fun!
The rooftop bar with talented bartenders and panoramic views of the downtown isn’t the only thing to love about this famous restaurant. You should take a look at the huge menu with lots of made-from-scratch dishes, choose your favorites, and enjoy them in a vibrantly colorful setting.
What to eat:
The award-winning fire-roasted salsa and chips are definitely a must-try. Next, fill your stomach with yummy entrees such as tacos a la Rosario’s (corn tacos served with signature salsa, meat, guacamole, and veggies) or flautas de pollo (chicken flautas with Mexican rice and crema fresca).
Location: 722 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Website: https://rosariossa.com/
Phone: +12102231806
28. Chris Madrids
Do you want to try classic American fast food with great health values for lunch? This tremendously popular hamburger fixture in the historic Beacon Hill is the answer.
Why choose this restaurant:
Founded in 1977, Chris Madrids has been San Antonio’s landmark despite many ups and downs, including a devastating fire. Its decadent burgers that ooze rich cheddar cheese through the large buns the moment your fingers press them are a delight few can say no to.
This place has no table service. Rather, you order at the cash register, find a place in the funky interior or the spacious patio, and wait for a signal for the pager they give you. Make sure to come here in a group because the servings are huge enough to split around.
What to eat:
Under no circumstances can you miss out on Cheddar Cheezy burgers or tostada burgers. The former is a delicious combo of melted cheddar cheese, mustard, and veggie, while the latter will charm you with the flavors of homemade refried beans, melted cheese, and salsa.
Location: 1900 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78212
Website: https://www.chrismadrids.com/
Phone: +12107353552
29. Smoke Shack
Open for lunch and dinner, this renowned dining venue offers delicious BBQ meals and quick bites.
Why choose this restaurant:
Smoke Shack is located close to many places of interest in San Antonio, such as the Witte Museum, Brackenridge Park, and San Antonio Botanical Garden. But its leading allure is the emphasis on genuine Texas BBQ.
This famous fixture offers well-marbled steaks, plus superb sides and snacks to match, all at enormous portions and very competitive prices. Place your order, then sit at one of the many picnic-style tables in the airy dining room: your serving will arrive very quickly.
What to eat:
As one of San Antonio’s best-loved BBQ restaurants, Smoke Shack has BBQ plates with your choice of succulent brisket, pulled pork, turkey, or sausage as the top choices. They can be improved with various sides, such as pinto beans, fried okra, or spicy cream corn.
Alternatively, you can ask for BBQ sliders, Big Dog sandwiches with BBQ sauce and slaw, or Tejas Hot Chicken sandwiches with chili pequin oil.
Location: 3714 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Website: https://smokeshacksa.com/
Phone: +12109571430
30. 2M Smokehouse
Established in 2016, 2M Smokehouse quickly became a favorite spot for BBQ lovers in San Antonio.
Why choose this restaurant:
What distinguishes 2M Smokehouse from any other BBQ restaurants in the area? The long lines of devoted patrons probably don’t. The answer can be the blend of San Antonio ingredients with Central Texas-style BBQ creating a menu that, while not traditional, is very mouth-watering.
Although this fancy smokehouse isn’t exactly affordable, you can save a few bucks by looking for specials on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. They are available from 11 AM to 4 PM and present you with changeable brisket, tacos, or sandwich dishes.
What to eat:
Many patrons have nothing but praise for the pork sausage with serrano peppers and Oaxaca cheese; you should try it for yourself. You can buy classic BBQ meat by the pound or order a family pack; the latter includes both meat and sides, like chicharon macaroni and sweet coleslaw.
Location: 2731 S WW White Rd, San Antonio, TX 78222
Website: https://2msmokehouse.com/
Phone: +12108859352
Lunch In San Antonio: A Great Time To Be Alive!
So what are you going to have for lunch in this exciting city? Is it Tex-Mex cuisine or Cajun delights that you’re into? Are you a fan of seafood or BBQ, or both? Does a fine dining venue appeal to you, or a casual eatery is more your type? You name it, and San Antonio will give it!
Still, this city may have some hidden gems not included in this post yet. So if you have other attractive places to have lunch, please let me know in the comments. Are you friends looking for the top lunch spots in San Antonio, too? Let’s share this post with them!
