Top 18 Tex Mex restaurants in San Antonio
Tex Mex restaurants in San Antonio are a fusion of Mexican and American cuisine, offering a unique dining experience. These restaurants have become a staple in the city, serving up flavorful dishes such as fajitas, enchiladas, and of course, margaritas. According to lists, some of the top Tex Mex restaurants in San Antonio include Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar, La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar, Pico de Gallo, and Casa Rio.
- 1. Casa Rio
- 2. Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar
- 3. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar
- 4. Panchito's Mexican Restaurant
- 5. La Fogata Mexican Cuisine
- 6. La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar
- 7. Pico de Gallo
- 8. La Fonda On Main
- 9. Acenar Mexican Restaurant
- 10. Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
- 11. Tito's Mexican Restaurant
- 12. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant
- 13. El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant - San Antonio
- 14. TLAHCO MEXICAN KITCHEN
- 15. El Mirasol
- 16. Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine
- 17. Teka Molino
- 18. Garcia's Mexican Food To Go
1. Casa Rio
San Antonio's oldest Mexican restaurant on the River Walk

The location has a pleasant atmosphere, making it a great spot to spend time. A live mariachi band often plays, adding to the ambiance and entertaining diners. The menu offers a variety of options, allowing customers to choose something that suits their taste.
Three specific dishes are featured on the menu: fajita taco salad, enchilada platter, and carne con queso. Each dish provides a unique flavor and experience, appealing to different preferences. The fajita taco salad is a healthy option, while the enchilada platter is more substantial and hearty. The carne con queso is a delicious choice for those who love cheese and spicy flavors.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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2. Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar
Authentic Mexican food in a lively atmosphere

On a trip from Corpus Christi to San Antonio Airport, I stopped at a restaurant called Rosario's. Our group, including my daughters, enjoyed a delicious lunch there. We started with prickly pear margaritas and I had enchiladas de mole, which were delicious. My daughters tried different items and also reported that their meals were quite good. The restaurant is older with a distinctive "patina" that exudes confidence in its culinary offerings. The service was efficient and the prices reasonable.
My husband and I had an excellent meal at Rosario's. I had chicken, while my husband opted for some enchiladas. I inquired if the dish had any spice, and the waiter assured me it was flavorful but not hot. However, my husband requested extra heat and the cook added a whole sliced blackened jalapeno, which enhanced the flavor. The chicken was juicy and flavorful, adding to our overall satisfying meal experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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3. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar
Unique riverside location with stunning city views
The salmon and shrimp tacos were delightful options on the menu, with customers praising their taste. The ceviche also received positive comments, indicating the restaurant's ability to prepare fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
In terms of service, customers had mixed reviews. Some described it as great, wonderful, and outstanding, highlighting the servers' friendliness and attentiveness. However, others mentioned slow service, suggesting that there is room for improvement in this area. Overall, the restaurant's service was perceived as decent by most customers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Mid-Range
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4. Panchito's Mexican Restaurant
Authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch
Panchito's is a traditional Tex-Mex restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience, especially known for serving what is considered the best tortilla soup in the city. The soup's balanced and flavorful ingredients provide a depth of deliciousness that keeps customers coming back for more.
The restaurant has a casual and friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. On a Saturday afternoon at noon, there was no wait, and the service was prompt and polite. Maria, the server, provided excellent service, while the manager personally checked on patrons to ensure their satisfaction. Generous servings at reasonable prices make Panchito's an excellent choice for those looking for a satisfying meal that won't break the bank. Having lived in the area for 40 years, I can confidently say that Panchito's will be one of my new favorite spots.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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5. La Fogata Mexican Cuisine
Colorful decor, lively ambiance, delicious margaritas

The food at this restaurant is a subject of much praise, with customers raving about the authentic and delicious flavors. Standout dishes include the guacamole made tableside, queso flameado, sizzling fajitas, and classic margaritas. However, not all reviews are glowing, as some customers have reported poor quality mahi tacos and food that was not served at the appropriate temperature.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is another aspect that has customers singing its praises. Words used to describe it include fun, romantic, inviting, wonderful, and cute. The patio is filled with lush plants and features splashing fountains and cantera stone columns, creating the ambiance of a gracious Mexican hacienda. This setting, along with the delicious food, makes for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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6. La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Offers a unique dining experience with a lively atmosphere

La Margarita, a Mexican restaurant and oyster bar in downtown San Antonio’s Historic Market Square, offers a wide-ranging menu of authentic Mexican cuisine. During a recent lunch visit, three coworkers and I enjoyed the delicious, homemade tortilla soup, which came in a perfect portion for lunch and included chunks of avocado, strips of tortilla chips, chicken, and vegetables in a savory broth.
Beyond the soup, La Margarita is known for its good food and good live music, making it an ideal spot to eat. The service is excellent, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The restaurant’s location in the Historic Market Square provides a lively atmosphere, making it a great destination for a satisfying Mexican meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Waterfront
7. Pico de Gallo
Family-owned and operated since 1983, using traditional recipes
The food served at this establishment has received negative reviews, with customers describing it as nasty and reheated. Some guests mention that the price does not reflect the quality of the food. Additionally, there have been complaints about incorrect or slow orders.
On a more positive note, the drinks offered at this location are highly regarded by patrons. Many customers have praised the quality and taste of the beverages, indicating a bright spot in the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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8. La Fonda On Main
Features a vibrant atmosphere with colorful decor and art pieces.

The service offered by this establishment is highly rated by customers, with many praising it as fantastic and excellent. Comments mention the accommodating and spot-on nature of the service, indicating a positive and satisfying customer experience.
The drinks served here are a highlight for many customers. They are described as strong, refreshing, and delicious, with a variety of options that rotate or change with the seasons. The high ratings for the drinks suggest that they are a standout feature of the establishment, providing customers with a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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9. Acenar Mexican Restaurant
Authentic Mexican cuisine in a modern setting

Acenar is a Mexican restaurant located in downtown San Antonio, Texas, which offers modern Tex-Mex cuisine and award-winning margaritas. The restaurant has a beautiful patio with a stunning view of the San Antonio River Walk, providing a great atmosphere for dining.
Acenar is highly recommended for delicious Mexican cuisine, and one of its standout dishes is the Tinga Chicken Chalupas. This dish is piled high with slaw, avocado, cheese, and red sauce, receiving high praise from reviewers, with one even rating it as 'awesome.' The reviewers commend the restaurant for its tasty and high-quality food, making it a great spot to try out for Mexican food lovers.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
10. Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
Hand-pressed tortillas and homemade sauces

The Hitters and the Misses: A Mixed Bag of Service Reviews
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The service at this establishment has been described as variable, with some reviewers praising it for its speed, efficiency, and all-around excellence. These satisfied customers rave about the staff's friendly and attentive demeanor, making for a delightful dining experience. However, other reviewers paint a different picture, criticizing the service for its slowness and lack of personality. These diners report long wait times and a general sense of indifference from the staff, which tarnishes their overall impression of the restaurant.
Delightful Dishes and Generous Portions: A Foodie's Paradise
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Food lovers will be thrilled with the array of options on offer, from Tex-Mex to Mexican and breakfast dishes, not to mention the ever-popular fajitas. Reviewers consistently describe the food as delicious, with an emphasis on generous portions that allow for ample leftovers. The quality of the ingredients and the skillful preparation are also singled out for praise. However, some reviewers note that prices have crept up over time, which may be a consideration for those on a budget. All in all, the culinary offerings at this establishment are a definite highlight, making it a must-visit for foodies and casual diners alike.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
11. Tito's Mexican Restaurant
Authentic Mexican cuisine with a lively atmosphere and entertainment

The New Mexico Enchiladas at the restaurant featured a luscious, creamy crema sauce that added a delightful richness to the dish. Also served were generous portions of nachos, topped with beans, queso, and carne picatta. If you're looking for a single Tex-Mex dining experience in San Antonio, Tito's is the place to go. The food is unpretentious, yet fresh, skillfully prepared and delicious. A suitable description would be simple, yet satisfying dishes.
Tito's restaurant offers a no-frills, authentic Tex-Mex dining experience. The menu features classic, well-prepared dishes that do not rely on fancy presentation. Instead, they focus on using fresh ingredients and expert preparation to create dishes that are full of flavor. The restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a traditional Tex-Mex meal in San Antonio.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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12. Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant
Bright and lively local favorite for Mexican food

The mole enchiladas served at the restaurant are a delicious option, with a rich and flavorful taste that comes from winter spices and peanuts. They have a slight sweetness that complements the spices well. The verde enchiladas are also a hit, offering a different but equally delightful flavor profile.
Los Barrios Mexican Restaurant stands out for its impressive presentation and cozy atmosphere. Even those with dietary restrictions can enjoy the offerings, as was the case with a customer who had a cumin allergy. They were able to find tasty options, such as chicken dishes and beans, that suited their needs.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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13. El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant - San Antonio
Family-owned restaurant with rich traditions

Drinks at the event were generally well-received, with many guests praising the balance of strength and flavor in their beverages. In particular, drinks made with a mix of orange juice and pineapple were popular among attendees.
On the other hand, the service at the event was a mixed bag. While many guests described the service as fantastic, fast, warm, and pleasant, others reported poor service and a lack of hospitality. This inconsistency in service experience may have affected some guests' overall enjoyment of the event.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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14. TLAHCO MEXICAN KITCHEN
Family-owned restaurant with homemade taste

The service at this establishment is highly regarded by guests for its friendliness, speed, and excellence. A few guests have mentioned that the service could be slow at times, but overall, they found it to be great.
The Mexican food served at this location is widely praised for its authenticity and delicious taste. Popular dishes include Tacos Dorados, chicken enchiladas, and Enchiladas Rojas with chicken. Guests have raved about the authentic flavors and have highly recommended trying these dishes.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
15. El Mirasol
Family-owned restaurant with a long history in San Antonio

The drinks at this establishment are frequently described as delicious and strong. Although some guests have noted a longer wait time for their drinks, many feel that the excellent quality makes it worth the wait.
In terms of service, guests consistently comment on the top-notch, friendly, and efficient service they receive. However, there are a few outlier reviews that mention slow service or unusual experiences. Overall, the positive feedback about the service far outweighs any negative comments.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
16. Aldaco's Mexican Cuisine
Family-owned and operated for over 25 years with a friendly and welcoming staff

The business offers a stunning view to its customers, many of whom take advantage of the spacious outdoor seating area. Windows seatings are also popular among customers who want to enjoy the picturesque scenery. The interior of the establishment is equally pleasing, with a clean and artistic atmosphere that appeals to customers.
A date night at this business is a great idea, with its romantic ambiance and indoor monitors playing sports. The place is well-maintained and has a modern feel, with good music playing in the background to enhance the customers' experience. Overall, the establishment provides an enjoyable atmosphere for any occasion.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
17. Teka Molino
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a welcoming environment.

Breakfast tacos are a highly regarded menu item, known for their great taste and high quality. Customers can expect a delicious meal when they order this dish. The ordering process is straightforward, with counter service available for convenience.
The food quality is exceptional, particularly the breakfast tacos. However, they can be a bit messy to eat, so having salsa on hand is recommended. The puffy tacos are also a tasty option, but they may require some extra condiments to enhance their flavor. Overall, the meal is a satisfying experience, with delicious food and efficient service.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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18. Garcia's Mexican Food To Go
Authentic Mexican food with homemade tortillas

Garcia's Mexican Food To Go is a small, less-known establishment offering delicious and fresh Mexican food. According to an US Today article, it is rated 23rd in the US for their brisket tacos. The quick service, amiable staff, and clean facilities are notable features of this place.
My spouse and I discovered this restaurant after reading about their highly-rated brisket tacos online. To our delight, my husband declared it as the best meal he has ever had in his life. The Huevos Rancheros and brisket tacos are particularly popular choices, with the brisket being exceptionally smoky and flavorful.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch