If you are a travel hound, then you know the best travel tips are from the locals! Throw out that travel guide you just got at the book store and ask the locals where they like to eat, hear live music, see some great art, etc. You can avoid the cheesy tourist traps, the overrated restaurants, and experience the real charm of the city.
Here are our favorite Downtown/Southtown picks:
Jim Cullum’s Landing
Best Place for Jazz
If blaring Jazz is on the itinerary, The Landing is the place for you. Located on the Riverwalk level of the Hyatt Regency, this jazz bar has really made a name for itself. The Jim Cullum Jazz Band, America’s world renown premier 7-piece Classic Jazz ensemble, plays Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 9:00 PM and is featured on it’s own NPR radio series “Riverwalk Jazz”.
123 Losoya St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 223-7266
Dolores Del Rio
Dinner and a Show
One thing about eating out on the Riverwalk is that most places have less than average food. Hate to say it, but it’s true. You really have to know where to go. A local favorite many people don’t know about (because it’s hard to find!) is Delores Del Rio located on the Riverwalk near the St. Mary Street bridge. They have great Italian food and live music and belly dancing. They are known for having a fun, entertaining atmosphere – and the food is delicious. Simple dishes with super fresh ingredients!
106 River Walk St
San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 222-9998
Garcia Art Glass
Taller de Vidro Soplado
Gini Garcia’s art gallery is simply a blast to visit. She has truly unique pieces in beautiful, vibrant colors. Everything is hand blown by her and her staff of glass artisans. Garcia opened the gallery in 1998 and has art work featured all over the world. My favorite are the glass chandeliers! They also do glass blowing demonstrations so you can see how these beautiful art works are put together. She has two locations:
715 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 354-4681
123 Losoya St, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 223-1400
Gordita Stand in El Mercado
Puro San Antonio
If you’ve ever seen Anthony Bourdain’s show ‘No Reservations’ then you know the best local eats are street food, preferably from a stand or cart. San Antonio’s best street fare is the Gordita, made fresh right in front of you. Head towards Market Square and right past the big restaurants for one of these local favorites and top it off with a “Mexican Coke” or some Horchata. Can’t beat it.
514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207
La Tuna
Grill and Watering Hole
It’s not just our favorite, La Tuna was recently named one of the best bars in America in Esquire magazine. It was the only place in San Antonio to make the list. They have great food and serve everything from nachos to steaks and excellent hamburger. Lamb Sandwich isn’t bad either! They also have a beergarten – San Antonio style. It’s a great place to meet up with friends and to make new ones. Always a good time to be had at La Tuna.
100 Probandt, San Antonio, TX 78204-1740
(210) 212-5727
Schilo’s Delicatessen
Downtown Deli, German Style
Schilo’s has been a true downtown establishment since 1917. They are famous for their Reubens, their split-pea soup and homemade root beer. And they serve a great breakfast as well! Potato Pancakes are a favorite among our guests.
424 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 223-6692
The Sandbar Fish House & Market
A Step Above
If you are in the mood for something special, you must go here. It’s a small seafood eatery next door to it’s sister restaurant, Andrew Weissman’s Le Reve. The staff is excellent. The food is to die for. It’s located on a quiet corner away from the tourist-laden part of downtown in the Exchange Building. You’ve never had seafood quite like this. I really cannot say enough good things about this place. Just go. You won’t be disappointed.
152 E Pecan St, San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 222-2426
If we forgot one or you didn’t see your favorite, please leave a comment and let us know!
The Fairmount Hotel 