The best restaurants in San Antonio right now

What it is: Isidore is a fine-dining restaurant in the heart of downtown that’s redefining Texas cuisine. 

Why we love it: From oysters paired with sour plum and lemongrass to caramelized cauliflower with tahini vinaigrette and hearty cuts of local steaks, Isidore showcases the bounty of Texas in every dish. As a reminder of where the food comes from, each one is beautifully plated with natural elements, from flowers to twigs and rocks found outdoors (yes, they’re clean). Don’t forget to look up every once and a while to soak in the decor: pistachio chenille chairs and wooden tables against a brick backdrop or open kitchen, depending on where you’re sitting. There’s also a curated tasting menu that pairs a selection of Isidore’s finest dishes with Texas wines like a 2021 William Chris Cabernet blend and 2020 Fire Oak Carignana from the Texas Hill Country. 

Time Out tip: If you have room for dessert, don't skip on the s'mores, an elevated take on the classic campfire treat. The chocolate mousse, graham cracker, toasted meringue and koji anglaise coalesce beautifully for the perfect sweet finish. 

Guests of Isidore receive two hours of complimentary parking at the Pullman Market parking lot on Newell Avenue. 

Address: 221 Newell Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78215

Opening hours: Tues-Sun 5-10pm 

Expect to pay: ~$150-$200+ for two people. Most entrees are around $50, with finer cuts of meat running higher. Small plates and raw bar items run $15-$25 each. 

What it is: This local, family-owned eater—led by chef John Russ, a 2023 James Beard finalist, and his wife, pastry chef Elise Russ—infuses global flavors into every dish.

Why we love it: This family-owned neighborhood restaurant serves globally inspired flavors in a casual setting. Find ricotta cavatelli dressed in broccoli-top pesto and Sichuan peppercorns; Maine Scallops with whole farro, toasted pecans, fried salami and parmesan broth; and cardamom donuts topped with coffee ice cream. If you’re not visiting for dinner, check out the website for seasonal fun—think themed Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day meals—as well as a special four-course Friday lunch. The menu rotates seasonally, so you might have to say goodbye to some of your favorite dishes. The upside? There’s always something new to try. 

Time Out tip: If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try the “Feed Me” menu option; it’s designed for those who’ll appreciate having to make one less decision. Entrust the chefs to curate a special menu for your table and enjoy family-style. 

Address: 2195 NW Military Highway, San Antonio, TX 78213

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5-9pm; Fri-Sat 5-10pm

Expect to pay: Minimum cost for dinner a deaux is around $100, and that’s selecting the lesser priced—but still delish—items on the menu. The entrees run from $30 to $68, with several filling appetizers that can be put together for a lighter meal. To go whole hog with apps, mains, desserts and drinks, expect a bill closer to $200.

What it is: An innovative restaurant serving regional Mexican tasting menus and the only restaurant in San Antonio to have received a Michelin Star.

Why we love it: Dining at Mixtli, which is the spoken Aztec word for “cloud,” is like traveling to different places and time periods. Operating under the premise that Mexican food can’t be defined because of Mexico's vast diversity, Mixtili challenges your preconceived notions about what Mexican food is. Spoiler alert: It’s more than tacos and enchiladas. The current menu pays homage to 1848 Mexico, a time when Indigenous tribes inhabited Northern territories. Expect dishes inspired by native diets and local ingredients, like wild boar with dry chilies and a quail croquette with trout roe. Dining at Mixtili is as much a history lesson as it is a delicious one.

Time Out tip: The menu is set, so call the restaurant to check if your dietary preferences and restrictions can be accommodated.

You’ll need to purchase tickets through Tock to dine at Mixtili—plan ahead, as they tend to sell out quickly. 

Address: 812 S. Alamo St STE 103 San Antonio, TX 78205

Opening hours: Tues-Sat 5:30-10pm

Expect to pay: The tasting menu is $160 per person. Wine pairing will run an extra $60+ per person. 

What it is: A pizza joint specializing in wood-fired pies and fresh ingredients. 

Why we love it: Il Forno makes wood-fired Neopolitan-style pizza from scratch, with housemade prosciutto, pepperoni and other meats. All pizzas come in a 12-inch size, and they never disappoint. Be sure to try the cleverly named "Things Found Underground," featuring fontina cheese, preserved lemon, garlic and other yummy ingredients. Should you want something other than pies, look no further than the “Not Pizza” section of the menu, which includes salads, meatballs and calabrese hummus with fire-roasted tomatoes. All the veggies are bought from local farmers, and local beers and wines are sourced locally when possible. 

Time Out tip: Order a mix of different pizzas to share. If you’re a little bit adventurous and like the idea of a fried egg atop your pizza, sample the carbonara. The egg is blended with fontina and pecorino cheeses, and the garlicky sauce is complemented by mushrooms, crispy pancetta and a roasted onion topping. There’s a lot going on, but it all works. 

Address: 122 Nogalitos St, San Antonio, TX 78204

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10pm

Expect to pay: ~$17 per pie.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Cured at Pearl (@curedatpearl)

What it is: A full-service restaurant with a meat-heavy menu serving brunch and dinner. Mains include hearty fare, such as Waygu beef short rib, sugarcane lamb and smoked chicken soup. 

Why we love it: Aside from being fans of the delicious food and the prime location in The Historic Pearl, we love how the chef’s personal story is woven into the menu. Six-time James Beard Award nominee, Chef Steve McHugh draws inspiration from his recovery from lymphoma, crafting a culinary philosophy rooted in pure, regional ingredients and unprocessed techniques that mirror his healing journey. Cured also has a brunch menu, with can’t-miss dishes like lobster knuckle tartine with soft-scrambled eggs and avocado and chicken and doughnuts, if you have a hankering for something sweet. 

Time Out tip: Even though Cured is a full-on restaurant, don’t count this spot out for drinks and light bites. There’s a small but mighty selection of creative happy hour food, including boudin empanadas and quail legs, as well as cheeky-named cocktails like “Nice Pear” and “Slow Poke.” 

Address: 306 Pearl Pkwy UNIT 101, San Antonio, TX 78215

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 3-10pm; Fri 3-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 10am-9pm

Expect to pay: Most entrees will run $30-$55, with some premium meat plates priced higher. An indulgent meal for two (with drinks) will run you ~$200. 

What it is: A vintage-style brasserie serving French comfort food at The Pearl. 

Why we love it: Enjoy French classics like crisp duck confit and tender braised rabbit, as well as a mouthwatering selection of cheeses. Don’t sleep on the raclette and baguette; the server scrapes melted cheese from a giant wheel of fromage onto a crisp baguette tableside. Cap the night off with a dessert (or two). You can’t go wrong with the crème brûlée or pot de crème. 

Time Out tip: Get the cheeseburger. While you might raise your eyebrows at ordering something so classically American in a French bistro, Chou Chou takes immense pride in crafting a great cheeseburger. The addition of gruyere cheese and the shallot sauce set it apart from your basic burger. The rest of the menu is reliably delicious, but if that burger piques your interest when perusing the menu, go with your gut and don't feel obligated to order something "more French." 

Address: 312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 10am-3pm, 4-10pm 

Expect to pay: The price of entrees varies quite a bit, running from $20-$98, with the higher end being reserved for prime cuts of meat. There’s a daily lunch special Monday through Saturday that is $23 and includes house salad, petit fours and your choice of tea or coffee. Or you can splurge on prime beef, lobster bisque and a bottle of wine, and take your bill much higher. The beauty here is that it can be enjoyed at many price points. 

What it is: An Asian fusion restaurant with a menu that’s reflective of Chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin’s Chinese heritage, San Antonio upbringing and the influences of her travels.

Why we love it: This restored circa-1900 house now houses one of San Antonio’s most notable restaurants. Most of the main dishes at Best Quality Daughter are served family-style, such as the crispy soft tofu with mapo sauce and cashew chicken, so you can try a variety of dishes without overstuffing. As you gulp down bites of salt and pepper shrimp and curry guisada dan dan noodles, soak in the vibrant wallpaper, fringe lampshades and checkered prints that make this spot so funky. Complement your meal with house cocktails like the Tom Yum Rum Punch, a mix of pineapple rum and juice, coconut, lime and tom yum syrup. This spot serves brunch, lunch and dinner, so anytime is a good time to come. 

Time Out tip: Best Quality Daughter has a separate bar that serves a variety of libations, including Thai tea cocktails, with a daily happy hour from 3-6pm. It’s worth coming in early for, or choose this spot as a stand-alone spot for drinks.

Address: 602 Avenue A, San Antonio, TX 78215

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 11am-10pm

Expect to pay: Sharable appetizers average around $14 and family-style entrees around $20, so a meal for two under $50 is entirely doable—though you might be tempted to spend more to try it all.

What it is: An Italian fine-dining establishment located in a restored firehouse in the center of Southtown. 

Why we love it: The entree portions are generous and filling, but the burrata and spinach dumpling appetizers are worth ordering, too. This is the place to be if you’re looking for Italian fine dining in San Antonio. The grilled rainbow trout and parmesan-crusted lamb chops are scrumptious, but the handmade pasta dishes are the real standouts. 

While the food makes the experience amazing, the restaurant's unique home in a restored firehouse adds a layer of visual flavor to eating at Battalion. The large, arched windows that look out on the Tower of the Americas are holdovers from the building's former function and are augmented by modern industrial decor. The restaurant's signature cocktail, FH7 (Firehouse 7) has Tito's vodka, peach liqueur, lemon and rosemary, making a great pre-dinner sip. 

Time Out tip: Make reservations in advance and don’t skip out on your vegetables. The slow-roasted carrots with candied peppers and mint are out of this world.

Address: 604 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5-9pm; Fri-Sat 5-10pm; Sun 5-9pm

Expect to pay: The prices are surprisingly economical, with pasta dishes at $16 and entrees running $22-$40. 

What it is: A window-serve joint serving traditional Caribbean food with a playful twist. 

Why we love it: As you’d expect, there’s jerk chicken grilled with Jamaican herbs and spices, but there’s a mix of other food, such as tacos and fried chicken, all made with a loving Caribbean touch. The fun and bright menu is divided into “Likkle Tings,” which are small bites, “Chop Tings,” “Chicken Tings” and “Big Tings Plates.” The Jerk Shack offers an opportunity to try something outside the usual dishes and challenges locals to embrace a new set of savory spices. Enjoy dishes like curry shrimp and jerk pork, which is served on aluminum trays lined with newspaper, in a modern industrial space. If you have room left and feel the urge to treat yourself, the layered banana pudding is the perfect, indulgent end. 

Time Out tip: Even though it seems a little out of step for the Caribbean menu, the shrimp and grits are worth trying. Also, Chef Blaque is a fun Instagram follow, with a real finger on the pulse of San Antonio’s culinary scene. 

Address: 10234 TX-151 Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-8pm; Fri-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-4pm

Expect to pay: ~$20 per person, depending on what you order. The “Big Tings” section of the menu costs a little more, but the dishes are worth your additional coins, as most come with rice, peas and fried plantains. 

What it is: A steakhouse experience with an elegant dining room overlooking the city.

Why we love it: Bonhanan’s isn’t your everyday dinner spot, but marking a special occasion makes their juicy filets worth splurging for. The meats are charred over a mesquite grill to deliver a sweet and smoky flavor. Don't forget the seafood items here, including the red snapper; it’s topped with a decadent cream sauce infused with crab meat, scallops and trumpet mushrooms. 

Time Out tip: There’s a dress code: no gym attire, including sweatpants, sweatshirts and hoodies. Jerseys, beanies, bandanas, ball caps, flip flops, slides, oversized or baggy clothing, tank tops and sleeveless shirts are also prohibited. 

Address: 219 E Houston St #275, San Antonio, TX 78205

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 5-11pm

Expect to pay: It’s reasonable to expect a dinner for two to run $200+. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 2M Smokehouse & Catering ™️ (@2msmokehouse)

What it is: A no-frills, family-owned Texas BBQ spot with counter service. 

Why we love it: Pitmaster and two-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef finalist Esaul Ramos gives a Tex-Mex spin to the more traditional brisket-centered barbecue common in South Texas. Unexpected touches, like serrano peppers and Oaxaca cheese in the sausage and chicharoni macaroni, make this your not-so-average BBQ joint.

Like most authentic Texas BBQ joints, the atmosphere is welcoming and unassuming, with the meat taking center stage. The brisket and pork ribs are legendary, but the side dishes deserve their own spot in the limelight. Adding unique Mexican twists to traditional BBQ sides, such as pickled nopales (prickly pear cactus), is a big part of what sets 2M Smokehouse apart from other BBQ spots in town. 

Time Out tip: Delicious barbecue doesn’t come without a line, so come early and expect to wait. Also, if you’re a pickle person, the housemade dills are a must-try.

Address: 2731 S WW White Rd, San Antonio, TX 78222

Opening hours: Thurs-Sun 11am-4pm, or until they sell out.

Expect to pay: Expect to spend $20-$30 per person.

What it is: A chic—but unpretentious—French bistro in the heart of San Antonio’s Alamo Heights neighborhood with both indoor and patio seating. 

Why we love it: Beloved San Antonio eatery Bistro Vatel closed its doors in 2017, but San Antonio's collective mourning for French food didn't last long when Bistr09 opened. Spearheaded by former Vatel Bistro chef Damien Watel, Bistr09 dishes out modern French fare like steak frites, quail risotto and duck confit, as well as new sweet creations like crème brûlée and chocolate mousse. It’s très délicieux, y’all. 

This is a popular spot for celebratory dinners, anniversaries, graduations and important career milestones. But it’s also casual enough to pop in wearing jeans on a Wednesday night, just because.

Time Out tip: Everything is good, but the juicy steak frites and baked oysters are perpetual fan favorites. Treat yourself on Tuesdays and get 30% off bottles of wine.

Address: 6106 Broadway Suite A1, San Antonio, TX 78209

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 4-9pm; Thurs-Sat 4-10pm

Expect to pay: Starters run about $15 and entrees about $40. For a nice dinner for two with wine, expect to drop around $150.

What it is: Make no mistake, Cheesy Jane’s is a burger place, but they have respectable tacos and chalupas, too. From classic burgers to only-in-San-Antonio delights—burgers topped with Fritos, refried beans and salsa—there’s a burger for every taste here. The food is simple, comforting and filling.

Why we love it: There is nothing like sinking your teeth into a good, sloppy burger you have to grip with two hands while sitting in a turquoise vinyl booth, and Cheesy Jane’s offers the opportunity to do exactly that. The bright yellow building with blue trim is reminiscent of retro burger stands, and exterior speakers greet you with vintage rock and roll tunes as you walk through the door. The food is always good, and servers are prompt and friendly. Its proximity to the Zoo, Witte Museum and the Doseum makes this a popular spot for families on the weekends.

Time Out tip: Cheesy Jane’s has one of the most extensive shake menus in town, so whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate, vanilla, strawberry or something more adventurous (think Espresso or Dreamsicle), this spot is pretty much shake heaven.

Address: 4200 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 11am-8:30pm; Fri-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8:30pm

Expect to pay: Around $20 per person. Most entrees are $15-$17 and include fries. Shakes are $6.49.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bakery Lorraine (@bakery_lorraine)

What it is: Located in the heart of the Historic Pearl, Bakery Lorraine is more than just a bakeshop—it’s a gathering spot for enjoying artisanal baked goods, including the delicate macarons they’re so famous for. 

Why we love it: This bakery and bistro serves a mouthwatering selection of colorful macarons, cookies, scones, muffins and other baked goods, including a selection of gluten-free treats. If you’re more of a savory person, options like fresh salads and sandwiches, including a grilled cheese with gruyere and goat cheese, are great options. Coffee, tea, wine, champagne or other boozy libations are calling your name. 

The rustic-chic touches and local art make it a fun place to hang out and people watch, if that’s your thing. There are cozy tables for two and four, plus a large communal table that functions as a counter space/common seating area. 

Time Out tip: If there are homemade Pop-tarts in the bakery case, get one. They will never be the wrong choice. 

Address: 306 Pearl Parkway, #110, San Antonio, TX 78215

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7am-8pm

Expect to pay: About $20 per person for a breakfast or lunch entree, plus a non-alcoholic beverage. Pastry prices vary but generally run around $4-$5 per item.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Pollos Asados Los Norteños (@polloslosnortenos)

What it is: A low-key spot southeast of downtown San Antonio serving Mexican grub and grilled chicken. 

Why we love it: The food is wholesome, fresh and protein-heavy. The vibe is delightfully mom-and-pop, and people, especially locals, come for the generous and filling portions, not the ambiance. Grilled whole or half chicken is served with rice, corn tortillas, grilled onions, jalapeno peppers and red and green salsas. For additional protein, add charro beans for a small extra fee. There are other items on the menu like burgers, fajitas and a variety of grilled meals, but the chicken is the main character here.

Time Out tip: Weekday lunch draws a crowd, so aim to arrive 15 to 30 minutes early for the fastest service. 

Address: 4642 Rigsby Ave, San Antonio, TX, with a second location on Walzem Road in Northeast San Antonio

Opening hours: Tues-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 11am-8pm

Expect to pay: A half-chicken with the fixings is $10.29. It’s a very hearty portion, so you’ll leave with leftovers if you’re not super hungry.