From the dining to scenic locations, here's our comprehensive neighborhood guide to all the best sites in San Antonio.
926 S. Presa St., foodisbliss.com
Located in the vibrant downtown San Antonio area, Bliss brings upscale yet contemporary American cuisine that utilizes the best seasonal and freshest local ingredients. With an array of artisanal cheeses and electrifying beverages, Bliss has an ambident menu to satisfy the tastes of any diner. On a mission to provide excellent customer service to San Antonio, Bliss is an inviting restaurant offering locals phenomenal food and a great dining experience. Fine dining made for everyone to enjoy shamelessly without judgment—an essential experience to elevating the growing San Antonio area.
Butter Cake from Bliss. Photo by Bryan Rindfuss
2415 N. Main Ave., lafondaonmain.com
San Antonio’s oldest Mexican restaurant, La Fonda On Main, has become a staple for its delicious authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. The stunning Latin interior enhances the excellent dining experience waiting inside. From the savory Arrachera al Guajillo to freshly caught fish in the tacos de Pescado, only the best is cooked up at La Fonda. The Historic Mexican restaurant has been a part of San Antonio for decades and many more to come. So grab a sweet margarita and one of their savory dishes in their beautiful outdoor patio for the night.
812 S. Alamo St., Ste. 103, restaurantmixtli.com
The Progressive Mexican Culinara, Mixtli, is taking a spin on classic Mexican restaurants by featuring dishes from across the region on their modified menu. Prepare yourself to be on cloud nine when tasting the Escabeche de chiles, which contains pickled chiles, cod, potato, cashew, and golden raisin mole. With available accommodations for vegan and vegetarian diets, Mixtli allows any diner a chance to taste authentic Mexican dishes. Mixtli is stepping into a new wave of traditional cuisine and embracing change to make its food one of a kind. Take a tour across Mexico and explore their numerous dishes, guided by Mixtli.
136 E. Grayson St., #120, southerleighatpearl.com
Seated in the former Historic Pearl Brewery, Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery has brought new life to the Pearl area with its culinary excellence and wide range of handcrafted beers. Known for serving up Classic Texan cuisine from their famous Southerleighs Snapper Throats to the famed fried chicken, Southerleigh continues to provide the best local dishes. Considered highly for its 15 differently crafted beers, Southerleigh has returned Pearl to its brewing roots. With more brewing on the horizon, Southerleigh will dazzle locals and tourists alike. The Historic space is the perfect place to relax with authentic comfort food.
136 E. Grayson St., thehotelemma.com
The IT spot on the Pearl and the only five-diamond hotel in Texas, The Historic Hotel Emma, located in the heart of the Pearl District, is the perfect place to stay while enjoying the sites. With a hotel, restaurant, tavern, and refined grocery store all in one building, Hotel Emma has everything and anything you need for the perfect stay. From luxury suites to classic Texan-inspired rooms, each room is cultivated with care to create a memorable experience for guests. The Hotel has impacted the community by continuing to provide excellent service to locals and visitors.
150 E. Houston St., hotelvalencia-riverwalk.com
Tucked away in the quiet part of the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, The Hotel Valencia is where luxury meets comfort. With the Palazzo interior and sleek bar counters, there is a splash of luxury in every aspect of the hotel. It is the ideal retreat for wellness and relaxation as guests can capture the views of the river on an evening jog. It is a great escape to enjoy peace and quiet by the beautiful riverwalk. Hotel Valencia has given guests and visitors luxury accommodations worth the trip, and they are sure to leave an impression of what awaits in visiting the Riverwalk.
9700 Military Dr. W, hyatt.com
The spacious and rustic Hyatt Residence Club San Antonio, Wild Oak Ranch is in Texas Hill County. With 39 acres of greenery and an 800-foot Rattlesnake River pool, the amenities continue with an on-site restaurant and golf course, making the perfect staycation for any guest. The Texas rustic style decor, like the comfy outdoor patios that feature a fire pit, is ideal for a relaxing stay, especially after taking a hike in the Wild Oak ranch trails. Hotels like Hyatt Residence Club San Antonio and Wild Oak Ranch provide the authentic Texan style through their decor and atmosphere, giving a taste of what life is like in Texas.
16641 La Cantera Pkwy., lacanteraresort.com
Awarded the AAA Four Diamond, nestled on top of the rolling hills, is the La Cantera Resort & Spa, where your experience is elevated. The premier luxury resort drives home to Texan ranch style in their 496 rooms, 34 boutique-style villas, and exclusive adults-only level. Ranch life meets style and comfort in the various rooms,, especially in villas with unique features. The relaxing 25,000 sq. ft destination spa stands out, Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, which turns luxury into relaxation. A Quality and comfortable stay is essential when providing for guests and enticing more to come.
1015 Navarro St., havanasanantonio.com
The Vibrant Blue Ocho Lounge, located in the San Antonio Havana Hotel on the Riverwalk, is a must-have experience for a dining escape. Influenced by Pan-Latin culture from Mexico, Cuba, and Texas has shaped Ocho’s menu to cultivate a one-of-a-kind dining experience with unique flavors. Delicious dishes like the Plantain-crusted snapper with mole verde and the lamb rack are among the few yummy options available. Ocho is setting the mark for dining, and whether it is drinking an espresso on the roof, the sights make it perfect for relaxing in the city.
Ocho Restaurant photo by Nick Simonite
555 Funston Place, sabot.org
A 38-acre serene location like the San Antonio Botanical Garden can be a relaxing spot to destress and enjoy the botanical gardens. With the changing seasons, San Antonio’s Botanical Gardens sculpt wonderful greenery displays to celebrate the holidays. After a stroll through their lush gardens, grab a bite to eat in Jardín, a restaurant built in partnership with chef Jason Dady, whose menu features fresh and delicious dishes from across the Mediterranean. An Oasis like the Botanical Garden is a sight to see and a nice getaway from the bustling city.
312 Pearl Pkwy., Building 4, Ste. 4112, hiatusspa.com
Right across from the Hotel Emma, the Hiatus Spa + Retreat has the remedy to soothe stress and aches with its wide range of massages and spa services. With easy book in-service available for guests at the Hotel Emma, ready yourself for some pampering at Hiatus Spa + Retreat when visiting Pearl. From waxing to hydrotherapy, there is a bit of everything. You’ll surely leave with a glow inside and out after having a rejuvenating facial. Luxury Spas are a necessity, and Hiatus gives visitors a chance to destress in style.
303 Pearl Pkwy., Unit 107, adelanteboutique.com
Adelante opened for over 45 years in Pearl’s Brewery, This Trendy Boutique is the place to go for unique varieties of gifts and adorable trinkets. The Third Generation family-owned business has remained a part of the community and continues to provide for locals. Some unique items are Latin-inspired dishes and decorative trinkets. A Must Have Accessory verified by Oprah is their very own invention by Adelante Owner- Marla Ross, Chickies, which is the tank bra that provides extra coverage. Adelante Boutique is making a name for itself and bringing good coverage to the Pearl area.
15900 La Cantera Pkwy., #26150, altardstate.com
From the perfect rush-ready outfit to Fall favorites, Altar’d State has everything for the modern wardrobe. With Autumn around the corner, Altar’d State is falling into the season with new looks to welcome. From blinged-out boots to dainty jewelry, pair them with their endless options of outfits from various styles. This boutique is more than just fashion but giving back to the community by participating in campaigns like Missing Monday, which helps combat child hunger by giving 10% of net profits to nonprofits across the world.
721 S. St. Mary’s St., bohemiangemme.com
Known for designing pretty things since 2016, the Bohemian Gemme's collection of bedazzled headbands and statement earrings is what sets them apart. Indeed, running with what sets them apart from the rest, their line of jewelry and hair accessories are true works of art. Besides jeweled headbands and earrings, Bohemian Gemme also sells clothing, handbags, and permanent jewelry. The colorful shop has the potential to expand and bring more attention to the San Antonio area. Boutiques like these showcase the talent and beauty that San Antonio has to offer to tourists.
1420 S. Alamo St., bar1919.com
Holding up the spot for being San Antonio’s Best kept secret, Bar 1919 will no longer be able to contain the deliciousness they craft. Adopting their philosophy of “changing the way you drink”, the speakeasy is dedicated to craft drinks one of a kind in flavor and look. Like a common speakeasy, Bar 1919 has some house rules: no loudness, no phone calls, and no standard drink orders, serving only the finest creations they have in-house. Bringing alive the spark of speakeasy, Bar 1919 is worth the trip as you are transported to the refinery and the glamour of drinking.
103 E. Jones Ave., elsewheretexas.com
The Infamous Riverside beer garden, Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen, transports diners to a fairyland with flora and fauna hanging from the ceiling and colorful artwork displayed throughout the eatery. A heavenly spot like Elsewhere Garden sets the perfect venue for a night out to enjoy a fruity cocktail with friends. With everything fresh and local, the bar’s name keeps true as its menu utilizes locally sourced ingredients. Welcoming all pets to dine with their owners, Elsewhere Garden stands out with their pet-friendly policy. The Bar and Kitchen make for the ideal location to relax and enjoy a drink in paradise.
111 W. Crockett St., Ste. 205, merkabatx.com
Located on the South Bank on the Riverwalk, Merkaba creates a lively night with performances and dancing measured up to the traditional nightclubs. Reserve a seat in their exclusive lounges, the Grotto and the Witch Doctor lounge, for a night you wouldn’t want to end. The irresistibly iridescent atmosphere of Merkaba feels otherworldly, and their eye-catching drinks share that feature with shareable options available. Nightlife in San Antonio is glowing thanks to Merkaba's infectious energy that keeps party-goers coming for more. Let loose and vibe with Merkaba for a night to remember.
102 9th St., Floor 4, paramourbar.com
The Colorful Paramour at the Phipps is THE place to hit the town for a night of fun. With a pairing of Entertainment and rooftop cocktails, the action thrives here all night long. Grab brunch and witness their fantastic Saturday Drag Brunch events. Paramour is your temporary date for the evening as their drink menu is cultivated on your mood for the night, which consists of vulnerability, trust, agony, and pleasure. Experience love like no other with Paramour, as each unique drink and fulling entree is sure to impress. Explore Paramour and the culture they contribute to the bright city of San Antonio.
418 Villita St., lavillitasanantonio.com
The Artsy square-block district and historical landmark, La Villita is the hub of life in San Antonio, where artists and craftsmen can display their creations. The Treasured Village has over 25 shops, galleries, and events hosted throughout the year. La Villita's traditional Spanish influences are present throughout their romantic courtyards and plazas. Along with art, there are restaurants ranging from savory steakhouses to traditional Tex-Mex cuisine. With over 300 years of history being a cornerstone of the San Antonio community, important landmarks like La Villita highlight the beauty of Texas.
105 Plaza de Armas, spanishgovernorspalace.org
The National Historic Landmark Spanish Governor’s Palace tours a piece of history as the building was built in the early 18th century and restored in the 1930s. The Picturesque location is now open for tours, even reserved events like weddings and intimate gatherings. Throughout the palace, there are influences of Spanish architecture, and the main courtyard showcases the beauty of traditional colonial architecture. Locations like the Spanish Governor’s Palace have great importance in maintaining pieces of history and educating the public on local history. Take a tour and experience the cultural history of Texas.
115 Lexington Ave., hyatt.com/thompson-hotels/satth-thompson-san-antonio
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is participating in A Taste of Thompson Dinner Parties, a new, brand-wide offering inviting guests, locals and members to customize and host their own bespoke dinner party, right on property. From exclusive menus and festive décor to carefully selected music and interactive entertainment, hosts can tap into the expertise of Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk’s culinary, mixology and event specialists to design every detail to perfection, setting the mood for a lively and memorable gathering for up to 16 special party guests. The bespoke dining experience takes place in the hotel’s lobby, the moody Solana Ballroom foyer, the serene Cenote Pool Deck, and the indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge, The Moon’s Daughters, and allows hosts to personalize their event with a custom-designed menu that includes Koji Aged Porcini Crusted A5 Wagyu Ribeye, Activated Charcoal infused Beurre Rouge with Potatoes Pave.
Thompson Dinner Parties photo courtesy of Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk
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