Best of 15 gastropubs in Downtown San Antonio
Gastropubs in Downtown San Antonio offer a unique dining experience, combining the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional pub with high-quality, innovative cuisine. These trendy hotspots have become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing a diverse range of culinary options. Top establishments include Yard House, The Esquire Tavern, Mad Dogs British Pub (River Walk), Liberty Bar, and Durty Nelly's Irish Pub. Each offering a unique spin on pub fare while maintaining that cozy, inviting ambiance.
- 1. The Esquire Tavern in Downtown San Antonio
- 2. Yard House
- 3. Mad Dogs British Pub (River Walk)
- 4. Durty Nelly's Irish Pub
- 5. Liberty Bar
- 6. Waxy's
- 7. The Cherrity Bar in Downtown San Antonio
- 8. Hops & Hounds
- 9. Francis Bogside
- 10. PROST
- 11. Crockett Tavern
- 12. Bar Loretta
- 13. Double Standard in Downtown San Antonio
- 14. The Filling Station Tap Room
- 15. The Lucky Duck
1. The Esquire Tavern in Downtown San Antonio
One of the oldest bars in Texas, historic decor

The Esquire Tavern is a must-visit gastropub in San Antonio, known for its delicious food and top-notch cocktails. The Bison Burger and Shrimp Toast are among the standout dishes, while the Deviled Eggs and Fried Apple Pie are not to be missed. The menu offers a variety of options to cater to all tastes, and the ambiance is perfect for a night out.
As a historic gastropub, The Esquire Tavern combines a unique blend of history and modern cuisine. The restaurant's historic charm is evident in its design and atmosphere, while the menu features modern twists on classic dishes. Cocktails are a highlight of the menu, with a range of creative and expertly crafted options. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great night out, The Esquire Tavern is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Yard House
Known for extensive beer selection and fresh dishes

Yard House is a lively and popular gastropub, known for its extensive beer selection and delicious food. The atmosphere is upbeat, making it an ideal location for a night out with friends. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including a standout dish - the Poke Nachos.
As a modern gastropub, Yard House successfully combines high-quality food with an impressive beer selection. With a diverse menu and a focus on casual dining, it provides a unique and enjoyable experience for its patrons. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking for a great meal, Yard House is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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3. Mad Dogs British Pub (River Walk)
Riverwalk location, extensive beer selection, beautiful wooden bar

During lunchtime, we stopped at a restaurant on the riverwalk and enjoyed a delicious meal. We ordered a corned beef sandwich, specifically a Reuben, which we shared. The sandwich was tasty, and even though I requested sauerkraut on the side for my husband who doesn't like it, they willingly accommodated my request. Our meal also came with hot and crispy fries, and we had a refreshing Smithwicks draft each. The location offered a fantastic view of the riverwalk, making our lunch even more enjoyable.
As for the bar scene, we visited a great bar with live music and a fun atmosphere. The upper deck of the bar featured a pool table, making it an excellent place to chill and hang out. Although we only had drinks, the service was impressive. The cleanest bathrooms on the riverwalk were in this bar, which added to its appeal. We had a great time listening to the live music, and the bar's vibe was enjoyable, making it a place we would love to visit again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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4. Durty Nelly's Irish Pub
Offers a wide selection of Irish whiskeys and beers, unique decor, and a lively patio area

If you're in search of a dimly lit, cramped bar with a lively and boisterous atmosphere, this place fits the bill. The small table tops and floors are covered in peanut shells, which adds to the laid-back and unpretentious vibe. The close quarters mean you might bump into someone and spill a drink, but it's all part of the fun. The bar plays loud, knock-off versions of hit songs, which can be hit or miss, but it won't dampen the good-natured, drunken humor of the patrons.
On the other hand, if you're in the mood for a more authentic and low-key experience, this Irish Pub on San Antonio's River Walk is a great option. The pub offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, where you can enjoy a pint and sing along with new friends. The pub's location on the scenic River Walk provides a picturesque backdrop, adding to the overall charm and allure. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply enjoy some quality time with friends, this Irish Pub is the perfect spot.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
5. Liberty Bar
Historic building with a speakeasy-inspired decor, extensive drink menu, and daily happy hour specials

TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
6. Waxy's
Historic building with a lively atmosphere, popular for St. Patrick's Day

The food at this establishment is exceptional, with everything made from scratch. The chicken pot pie is a standout, featuring a buttery and crispy puff pastry on top. The portion size is just right, and the menu also includes delicious drinks. The owners, a husband and wife team, are particularly hospitable and gracious, making it a must-visit spot along the San Antonio river walk.
The service at this establishment is consistently amazing. Staff are super nice, accommodating, and went out of their way to find a shaded table for a customer with a dog. They offer a great selection of food and drinks, including hot toddy's for cold days, flavorful lamb stew, and the best Irish coffee. The location is also a highlight, with outdoor seating offering a beautiful view of the river while staying cozy with space heaters. The menu includes a variety of options, including Reuben sandwiches, fish and chips, and chicken tenders for kids.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Waterfront
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7. The Cherrity Bar in Downtown San Antonio
A charitable bar that donates all profits to local non-profit organizations

The Cherrity Bar is a unique gastropub that combines Japanese and American cuisine, offering a fantastic atmosphere with live music and a happy hour featuring half-priced small plates. The tonkatsu ramen is a must-try dish, and the staff are known for being friendly and accommodating. What sets The Cherrity Bar apart is its support for a good cause, with donations made from each purchase.
With a great selection of ramen and small plates, The Cherrity Bar offers a fantastic atmosphere and delicious food that's a fusion of Japanese and American cuisine. The staff are friendly and accommodating, and the live music creates a lively and enjoyable ambiance. Moreover, knowing that your visit supports a good cause makes dining at The Cherrity Bar an even more fulfilling experience. Whether you're in the mood for a casual night out or a place to gather with friends, The Cherrity Bar is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
8. Hops & Hounds
Spacious dog park on-site

Hops and Hounds is a dog-friendly establishment with a casual and cool vibe, where customers can enjoy live music or trivia nights. The bar staff is attentive, but there can be a long wait time for drinks, particularly for those sitting outside. The food served is above average for junk food, with highly recommended burgers and fries.
The author's experience at Hops and Hounds was fantastic, having visited many dog parks and bars in different states. The dog park at Hops and Hounds stood out for the attentiveness of dog owners. The food served was excellent, with the burgers and fries being a highlight. The author intends to revisit the establishment in the future.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
9. Francis Bogside
Offers a unique Irish pub experience with a great selection of drinks and delicious food

Francis Bogside is a bar known for its excellent and adventurous cocktails, made by friendly bartenders with a large selection of ingredients. The atmosphere is lively, and the menu features a variety of classic pub dishes and drinks. However, some reviewers have noted issues with service and small portion sizes.
Despite this, many visitors have had positive experiences with the food, praising the "great bar, great food" and noting that it is better than typical bar food. The menu includes a mix of options, such as Brussels, burgers, and wings, all of which have received positive reviews for their taste and quality.
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10. PROST
Extensive German beer selection, fun events, pet-friendly patio

PROST, a unique German-inspired dining experience in Texas, offers a cozy enclosed porch area for enjoying beers on rainy days and a beautiful patio on the San Antonio River Walk. The menu features delicious German options such as the sausage paddle with knockwurst and exceptional Jaeger Schnitzel with bacon cabbage and mashed potatoes. The interior of the restaurant and bar showcases museum-like architecture, while live country music and cool Texas brews or hand-crafted cocktails are available for guests.
In addition to the German-inspired menu, PROST serves massive Bavarian pretzels the size of your head and offers beer steins to match. The restaurant is a little gem located south of the shops at river center, offering a fun and unique dining experience for all visitors. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and wide selection of drinks, PROST is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy German cuisine in Texas.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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11. Crockett Tavern
Historical building with a rich past and a focus on Texas-style cuisine

2.3 No reviews yet based on 66 reviews Morristown Museums 2.9 km from center Nearby city view in the app
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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12. Bar Loretta
Historic building with a lively and welcoming atmosphere

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13. Double Standard in Downtown San Antonio
Features a rooftop patio with views of the city skyline

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14. The Filling Station Tap Room
Spacious outdoor patio with fire pits and games

TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
15. The Lucky Duck

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