San Antonio, Texas: Food, Fun, and Fiesta!

Before I moved to San Antonio, I had no idea what a fabulous city this was.  It’s the 7th largest city in the U.S., but it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly large.  The city has so much culture and history, and the architecture is certainly a reflection of it.  It has everything a big city has to offer, but it feels comfortable, charming, and uniquely authentic.  The people are warm and friendly, and the food scene is LEGIT!  If you come and visit San Antonio, go beyond the Riverwalk.  Although I am always in awe of the beauty of the Riverwalk, there’s so much more to see and do.  This city is very spread out, so you need to have a plan on where to go, which means you need to get in your car and explore.  San Antonio will seduce you, and before you know it, you’ll want to call yourself a Texan.

Food/Drinks

1. Torchy’s Tacos –  This is an Austin based taco place, and they only have one in San Antonio, but it’s seriously worth a stop.  It’s near the airport in the lovely area of Alamo Heights (my old stomping ground).  Every time I visit San Antonio, this is a required stop.  I particularly love it for a bacon breakfast taco with 🥑 salsa.
2. Cured –This is beautiful and delicious restaurant at the Pearl District.  The food is forward thinking, the drinks are creative and top-notch, and the service is spectacular.  Make sure to order a charcuterie plate.  Truly a must stop if you want a special dinner. (Make a reservation on Open Table).
3. Supper – This American eatery in the beautiful Hotel Emma is a farm to table restaurant. Reservations may be difficult on the weekends and some nights, but my absolute favorite spot to eat here is at the chef’s table.  These seats are first come, first serve.  You get to watch the chefs, but they also give you food to try while you’re waiting.  It’s a complete win/win!!!
4. Bliss – Great spot in Southtown District (downtown SA).  The food is another top-notch, special night out, kind of spot.  You can’t go wrong here. (Recommend reservations on Open Table)
5. Feast – I recently ate here during my last trip, and I will come back!  We sat outside, and the outdoor space is beautiful.  Food is tapas style (small plates).  One of my favorite dishes was the chioggia beets, and I don’t even like beets, so that’s saying something. (Open Table)
6. Bird Bakery – I discovered this bakery on my drive home from AC Power Yoga on Broadway Street.  I thought it was absolutely adorable, so I came inside and got a delicious sandwich and iced tea and purchased a couple mini cupcakes to go.  I then discovered that Elizabeth Chambers, owner of Bird Bakery, was a judge on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and wife to the actor, Armie Hammer.  This place is adorable.  I love their decor, and their cupcakes and sandwiches are wonderful.  By the way, I never got to see Elizabeth or Armie.
7. Commonwealth Coffeehouse – This is another one of my favorite spots when I lived here.  It’s tucked away on a side road off Broadway Street, and it’s so incredibly adorable and serene.  I would often come for a freshly brewed iced coffee and their commonwealth salad, but their house made French pastries don’t disappoint.  As a lover of all things crepes, make sure to come on a weekend morning and have one!!! This place will always have a special place in my heart.
8. Bakery Lorraine – Adorable French bakery in the Pearl District.  I particularly love their house made macaroons.
9. Sternewirth – This is a must stop while visiting San Antonio.  It’s the gorgeous cocktail lounge of Hotel Emma in the Pearl District.  For those that don’t know, Hotel Emma was restored into a gorgeous industrial meets Texas charm meets modern comfort hotel.  It was the former Pearl Brewery.  The space is so unique and worth a visit just to see, but while you’re there, soak it all in and sit and order one of their delicious craft cocktails.
10. Rudy’s BBQ & Country Store – This is a Texas experience, so when in Texas, go to Rudy’s!  It’s a Texas chain, and I love it.  Stop and get some brisket and enjoy a casual Texas meal.  My favorite side is their creamed corn.  It’s amazing!
11. Local Coffee – Ever since my time in Italy, my love for coffee has grown exponentially.  I always appreciate experts in their field, and these baristas know how to make some solid coffee.
12. Esquire Tavern – If I want a cocktail, and I’m down on the Riverwalk, I always stop here.  My favorite spot to have one is the outside area overlooking the Riverwalk.  There are only about 4 tables, but if you can grab one and the weather is good, it’s a great experience.  Order a French 75.  I know, totally random, but they’re good here.
13. Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina – When I visit, this is my go-to Mexican food stop.  It’s always busy here, but that’s always a good sign, and the food is very tasty.

Shopping/Experiences:

1. The Pearl District – This place has it all!  While most newcomers initially flock to the Riverwalk, the Pearl District is where any local will tell you to go.  The Pearl is bustling and continues to grow.  Every time I visit, something new has opened up.  Some of the best restaurants and bars are here, and arguably the best hotel in the city, Hotel Emma.  There’s some great shopping, exciting events, and a weekly Farmer’s Market on Saturdays.  Ensure to make this part of your trip.  And for those that don’t know, it is on the Riverwalk, just not the tourist part that you may be familiar with.  If you enjoy running and you’re staying down on the Riverwalk, take a morning run up toward the Pearl District.  It’s my favorite run route when in town.
2. The Riverwalk – This is a must stop, but you probably already know that.  Make sure, however, to make your way to Market Square and purchase some beautiful Mexican goods.
3. The Quarry – my old stomping grounds, but it really has some great shopping, if you want more typical stores. Make sure to stop at the Woodhouse Day Spa.  That place is a must if you want to pamper yourself some.  I also enjoy Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Piatti, a great Italian restaurant.  And who doesn’t love the colorful smokestacks?  They’re always festive.
4. Fiesta – When I lived here, I had no idea what to expect, but this yearly festival in April that lasts about two weeks is truly an experience to behold.  Parades, mariachi bands, concerts, rodeo, music, and colorful decor, these are just some of the highlights.  This festival oozes of culture, and you’ll certainly fall in love with this city, especially if you’re here at that time.
5. Missions – Definitely stop and visit the Alamo, but also ensure you go and visit the other Missions.  They are beautiful, so give yourself a great history lesson.
6. Gruene, Texas –  I can’t believe that the first time I visited this adorable town was during a work trip AFTER I moved away from San Antonio.  I had heard it was really cute, but cute doesn’t properly describe it.  It’s a wonderful small town, and it’s definitely worth a day trip, whether you are visiting San Antonio or Austin.  This place has about 30 shops ranging from antiques, women’s clothes, pottery, to a general store.  Make sure to stop and eat at the Gristmill Restaurant, and you’ll find yourself sitting above the Guadalupe River.  However, the ONE thing you have to do when you visit Gruene is a stop in Gruene Hall.  It is Texas’ oldest dancehall, and they have live musical acts every day.  Don’t skip this.  Walk inside, order yourself a beer, grab a seat, and enjoy the music.  Make sure to check out the wall of photos with all of the different musical acts that have performed there.  You’ll be amazed.
7. Fredericksburg, Texas – when you think of the quintessential Texas town, this town is the city you envision.  It’s in the heart of Texas Hill Country, a beautiful area known for its wine.  It’s just lovely in every way.  Stroll along the main street and pop in and out of stores, restaurants, or wine tastings.
8. The Shops at La Cantera – beautiful outdoor shopping that has more luxury brands.  There are lots of restaurants here and around the Rim area nearby.

As you may surmise, this city is thriving.  There are great concerts, shows, events, and social activities.  You can find anything you want within the city itself or around the area.  I could go on and on about the city that will always have a special place in my heart.  Even though I only lived here for a short time, I will always consider this city my home.  I became a Spurs fan, I own a variety of Texas paraphernalia now, but most importantly, I fell in love with a culturally rich and beautiful city.  Thank you, San Antonio. xoxo