San Antonio, with its vibrant culture and beautiful weather, offers a plethora of amazing options for outdoor dining. Whether you're craving Tex-Mex, upscale cuisine, or a casual bite, there's an al fresco spot perfect for you. This guide highlights 18 of the best outdoor dining experiences San Antonio has to offer, categorized for your convenience. This list is sure to satisfy your craving for outdoor dining in San Antonio.
Romantic Outdoor Dining in San Antonio
These spots are perfect for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
1. Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood
- Ambiance: Upscale, sophisticated, and romantic with a beautiful patio setting.
- Cuisine: Exquisite steaks and seafood.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The patio is elegant and intimate, ideal for a special celebration. Their commitment to quality extends to their outdoor experience.
2. The Esquire Tavern
- Ambiance: Historic charm meets modern elegance. The patio offers a glimpse into San Antonio's rich past.
- Cuisine: American cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients and classic cocktails.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The historic setting and beautiful patio create a memorable dining experience.
3. Bliss Restaurant
- Ambiance: Chic and sophisticated with a focus on modern design and a lively atmosphere.
- Cuisine: Modern American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The patio offers a relaxed yet stylish setting perfect for a romantic evening.
Casual Outdoor Dining in San Antonio:
These options are perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
4. The Cove
- Ambiance: Relaxed, lively, and fun with a large outdoor patio perfect for groups.
- Cuisine: American comfort food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The extensive patio provides ample space for larger groups and features a lively atmosphere.
5. Yard Bar
- Ambiance: Casual, laid-back, and dog-friendly with a large outdoor area featuring games.
- Cuisine: Bar food with a focus on casual fare and tasty appetizers.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Ideal for a casual gathering with friends or family, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the San Antonio weather.
6. Parkway Brewing Co.
- Ambiance: Casual and industrial-chic with an outdoor area that's dog-friendly.
- Cuisine: Bar food and brewery fare with a focus on their own craft beers.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A great option for craft beer lovers, with a casual and spacious patio.
Outdoor Dining with a View in San Antonio:
These restaurants offer stunning views to complement your meal.
7. The River Walk
- Ambiance: Picturesque and lively. Many restaurants along the River Walk offer outdoor seating with stunning views.
- Cuisine: A wide variety of cuisines, from Tex-Mex to Italian.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The location is unbeatable, offering beautiful views of the River Walk and its vibrant atmosphere.
8. Boudro's
- Ambiance: Upscale and sophisticated with stunning views of the River Walk.
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: The location on the River Walk provides breathtaking views, making it a truly memorable dining experience.
9. Casa Rio
- Ambiance: Classic and charming, with a location right on the River Walk.
- Cuisine: Traditional Tex-Mex
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A classic River Walk location with a long history and a charming atmosphere.
Unique Outdoor Dining Experiences in San Antonio:
These restaurants offer something a little different for your outdoor dining adventure.
10. Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery
- Ambiance: Modern and stylish with a large outdoor patio and a brewery on-site.
- Cuisine: American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Offers a modern and sophisticated take on outdoor dining with a brewery atmosphere.
11. Dorćol Distilling Co.
- Ambiance: Industrial chic with a large outdoor patio area perfect for groups.
- Cuisine: Gastropub fare with a focus on creative dishes and craft cocktails.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Enjoy their own craft spirits and unique cocktails in a stylish outdoor setting.
12. Cured
- Ambiance: Relaxed and trendy with a focus on artisanal food and drinks.
- Cuisine: Small plates and charcuterie with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Their focus on high-quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere make it a great place for sharing plates.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Dining in San Antonio:
These restaurants are welcoming to families and children.
13. Chris Madrid's
- Ambiance: Lively and casual, known for its delicious burgers.
- Cuisine: Classic burgers and comfort food.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A casual and family-friendly atmosphere.
14. Schilo's
- Ambiance: Nostalgic and family-friendly, serving German-style food.
- Cuisine: German food and classic comfort food.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A relaxed family atmosphere and casual outdoor seating.
Other Notable Outdoor Dining Options in San Antonio:
These restaurants provide exceptional outdoor dining experiences.
15. Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina
- Ambiance: Lively and festive with a large outdoor patio.
- Cuisine: Authentic Mexican food.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A great atmosphere for a casual meal, with plenty of space for families.
16. Smoke Shack
- Ambiance: Casual and fun, specializing in barbecue.
- Cuisine: BBQ with a focus on smoked meats.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Great for casual dining with a family-friendly atmosphere.
17. Paesanos Riverwalk
- Ambiance: Elegant and sophisticated with stunning River Walk views.
- Cuisine: Italian
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: Combines elegance with a stunning location.
18. La Gloria
- Ambiance: Upscale, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a lively atmosphere.
- Cuisine: Upscale Mexican cuisine.
- Why it's great for outdoor dining: A sophisticated ambiance meets a vibrant atmosphere.
This list is just a starting point! San Antonio offers a vast array of outdoor dining options, ensuring there's a perfect spot for every taste and occasion. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours, reservations, and patio availability. Enjoy your al fresco dining in the beautiful city of San Antonio!