10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in San Antonio

Schilo’s has been a favourite lunch spot in the San Antonio dining scene for more than 100 years. While Schilo’s is well known for its German comfort dishes like meatloaf, pea soup, bratwurst, and wiener schnitzel, the deli sandwiches here really stand out, with an assortment of meats and cheeses to choose from.

Built in a former mercantile exchange building, the restaurant has a soothing vintage theme, with old family photos and postcards lining the walls. Though it’s located downtown where some restaurants have tourist prices, the Schilo family keeps serving up large portions at great prices.

Burgerteca was founded by Chef Johnny Hernandez, who made his mark on the San Antonio dining scene by opening such beloved Mexican restaurants as La Gloria. This burger haven set just south of downtown pays homage to the chef’s Mexican roots with toppings like black beans and salsa verde.

Among the favourites here is the Chile con Queso burger slathered with refried beans, corn chips and melted white cheese. If you're craving a margarita to wash down the burger, try to visit during the restaurant's happy hour – actually a generous 4 hours – from 3 pm to 7 pm, Monday to Thursday, to enjoy discounted drink prices.

Botika was created by Chef Geronimo Lopez, whose travels through Asia and Latin America inspired him to create a unique menu of South America-meets-Asia dishes. Here you’ll be able to sample some surprising taste combinations like duck confit and potato empanadas, or loma saltado, a beef stir-fry with soy and yellow chile pepper paste. You could also just go for the sushi, paired with some cocktails and enjoyed on the patio.

Though its reputation is starting to attract visitors from outside San Antonio, Botika is still firmly on the map as a local favourite for dining. Its location in the trendy Pearl district adds to its foodie-friendly vibe.

Dignowity Meats is celebrated by hungry San Antonians for its delicious smoked meat sandwiches and barbecue dishes. There’s a different menu for lunch and dinner, and while many stop by for takeaway, you could also dine at the outdoor patio.

Nobody comes here for a light meal. Get your fill of meaty, cheesy and carb-heavy creations such as the Burnt end Melt with smoked brisket burnt ends and cheddar macaroni on ciabatta, or the San-Anto Style Pie with Flamin' Hot Cheetos, sharp cheddar macaroni, pulled pork, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos. Leave a bit of space to enjoy a craft beer along with your meal.

Going to Ray’s Drive Inn is like stepping back in time, with its classic carhop service and tasty no-frills meals. Ray’s was the creator of San Antonio’s most famous dish: the puffy taco. And it’s still serving these up daily along with a selection of Tex-Mex favourites.

Ray’s first opened in the 1950s and the restaurant has kept its retro look, with vintage pictures and advertisements lining the walls, and an old jukebox in the corner. The restaurant is found about 4 miles west of downtown, but worth the trip for its authentic San Antonio character.

Maria’s Café and Shop has been a fixture on Nogalitos Street for over 30 years. Diners flock to the family-run Maria’s not only for the well-priced meals but also for the dash of personal care that’s put into each dish. Maria’s has a menu of tempting tacos and Tex-Mex offerings, but savvy locals have also learned that they’re happy to take custom orders, too. If you’re extra hungry, try the El Hugo taco which has a generous slice of brisket and an egg.

It’s also a great spot for breakfast, whether you’re wanting something with a bit of spice or some classic American pancakes. Maria’s Café is found about 6 km south of downtown, about 15 minutes away by bus.

The main thing to know about 2M Smokehouse is that you’ve got to get there early and be prepared to queue up to avoid missing out on its beloved barbecue specialities. It opens at 11 am but on weekends especially, you’ll see people lining up as early as 9.30 am. The family serves up brisket, ribs, pulled port and sausages, all prepared in their gigantic custom-made barbecue pit called El Mexicano.

Don’t expect any frills here… or wait service – you simply order at the counter and hope to find a place to squeeze in at the few tables provided. No alcohol is served, either. Indeed, they encourage diners who want to eat there to bring their own chairs and drinks and make a picnic of it.

Bliss restaurant is a small, intimate place in Southtown with a contemporary American menu that changes with the seasons. It’s the kind of place to dress up a bit and make a night of it, and best enjoyed as a multi-course experience. Try such flavourful starters as oyster sliders with candied bacon or hamachi sashimi tostadas. Among the favourite mains here are braised beef short ribs, pork shank and seared scallops.  

Bliss has also become known for its warm and attentive service, with its expert suggestions on wines and cocktails to go with the meal. Reservations are essential.