Mexican Restaurants: San Antonio’s Best & Historic
San Antonio boasts a vibrant Mexican culinary scene, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic enchilada plate or an innovative taco flight, these restaurants offer a diverse array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Here are some top, classic and historic restaurants in the city you might want to explore… listed in no particular order…
Los Barrios
Locations: North Central/Redland, West Side/151, Central/Blanco
Viola Barrios arrived in San Antonio with nothing more than a dream and a handful of cherished family recipes. In 1979, she transformed an old boat house into what would become Los Barrios Restaurant, introducing the world to the art of “Casero Style” cooking. This culinary approach, deeply rooted in generations of tradition, pride, and heritage, invites patrons to savor the authentic flavors of Mexico while becoming a part of the recipe for fun, food, and happiness. Today the tradition lives through her treasured family who oversee 3 well-loved locations.
Rosario’s
Locations: Downtown/Southtown
The visionary skills of Lisa Wong breathed new life into this neighborhood gem. Consistently named one of the “Best Mexican Restaurants” in San Antonio by food critics and loyal fans, Rosario’s is located in the Southtown Historic District, just a few blocks from Downtown San Antonio. The atmosphere is contemporary and fun, serving up some of the city’s very best salsa! The newly designed space includes indoor and outdoor dining areas, a rooftop terrace & bar with stunning views of the downtown skyline
Aldaco’s
Locations: North Central/Stone Oak
Founded by the visionary Blanca Aldaco, her restaurant started on Commerce Street, relocated to the historic Sunset Station and today overlooks the city on the far northside of town in Stone Oak. Blanca, known as both the Margarita Maven and the creator of the famous Pastel Tres Leches Cake, has been a culinary pioneer in the city for over three decades. Aldaco’s offers authentic Mexican cuisine in must-visit destinations.
Mi Tierra
Locations: El Mercaodo/Downtown
Since 1941, the Cortez family has been delighting both locals and tourists at their cherished downtown San Antonio landmark. Mi Tierra boasts a menu that honors the rich “Tejano” culture. No visit will be complete without a table serenade by the Mariachis! Pick up some traditional Pan Dulce from the Panaderia on your way out.
La Fogata
Locations: Central/Vance Jackson, Alamo Heights, Dominion
La Fogata—Spanish for “open flame”—features fire-roasted salsa, award-winning margaritas and festive indoor and outdoor dining in a lush tropical atmosphere. For more than 35 years, San Antonians have been coming to La Fogata for dishes made with the freshest ingredients based on traditional recipes found throughout Mexico, where flame cooking is an art form.
El Bucanero
Locations: North Central/Blanco, West Side/Marbach, Central Bitter/281
Julio Cervantes’ coastal upbringing in Sinaloa, Mexico launched this seafood restaurant. El Bucanero serves up exceptional seafood platters, offering a delectable array of dishes, including ceviches, molcajetes, tostadas, and botanas, each reflecting the coastal Mexican heritage that serves as their culinary inspiration.
Pollos Asados Los Norteños
Locations: East Side/Rigsby
Starting as church fundraiser in Coahuila, Mexico, Pollos Asados Los Norteños has evolved into a family venture rooted in tradition and community, moving from a humble food truck on Rigsby Avenue to operating two in restaurants in San Antonio. Their marinated and freshly grilled chicken, embodies authentic Mexican flavors passed down through generations. Despite often long lines, they’ve ascended the TripAdvisor popularity rankings, earning the reputation of hosting “The Greatest Chicken Show in Texas,” a testament to the deliciousness that awaits within.
Nicha’s
Locations: Southside/Roosevelt, Central/410, Central/Wurzbach
This culinary treasure, traces its roots to 1977 when Gene and Dionisia (“Nicha”) Garcia introduced the community to their authentic homestyle Mexican cuisine at Minit Taco. Today they have a devote, local following of the original location on Roosevelt Avenue near Mission San Jose. In 2003, two of the siblings carried on the tradition, renaming it Nicha’s Comida Mexicana in tribute to their mother. The restaurant has expanded to Loop 410 and also north central area offering an enduring legacy of exceptional Mexican flavors rooted in a profound passion for comida and family.
La Gloria
Locations: The Pearl, Brooks City Base, Downtown, Airport
Chef Johnny Hernandez is a cornerstone entity in Mexican cuisine and culture in San Antonio. La Gloria features Mexico’s ‘street foods’. La Gloria has multiple locations including the airport and The Pearl. Check out his unique places like Botenero, Burgerteca, and Casa Hernan.
El Chaparral
Locations: Helotes, North Central/Redland, Boerne
Originating in Helotes, El Chaparral was launched by Carlos and Mary Garcia. After decades of success, they opened a second location at 1604 and Redland Rd, and then a Boerne location on Main St. El Chaparral’s menu boasts traditional dishes you might expect with their own Mexican flair.
Ernesto’s
Locations: Central (410/Jackson Keller)
One of the oldest, authentic Mexican restaurants, Ernesto’s features a wide variety homemade food including sauces. Beyond the delicious cuisine, the restaurant’s heartwarming story is anchored by its original owner, Ernesto Sr., whose son now passionately continues the family legacy with unwavering commitment to serving up a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Acenar
Locations: Downtown/Riverwalk
Acenar offers modern, innovative cuisine and cocktails with the best view of the San Antonio River Walk. Indoor or patio dining overlooking the Riverwalk on Houston Street, visit Acenar for a unique twist on local tex-mex!
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