Next time you're craving a delicious cocktail, go underground. Bar 1919 is located below ground level and features an elegant interior comprised of plush seats, leather banquettes, and polished walls. Their extensive menu of wonderfully crafted cocktails is served in a speakeasy-style atmosphere. Some must-try items on the menu include Without A Trace and Blue Grass Fizz.
Located in the Menger Hotel, the Menger Bar is full of history - and ghosts, some would have you believe. This is the place where Teddy Roosevelt recruited his Rough Riders, and you'll find photos of him here, as well as plenty of historic memorabilia. Enjoy Texas beer, whiskey, and other drinks in this bar that was built in 1887 and some say is haunted. The decor is true to the era in which it was built, except for the flat-screen TV on the wall.
The Friendly Spot lives up to its name, providing an inviting place for patrons - and their kids and pets - to hang out. This family-friendly ice house even has a play area where parents can watch their kids play while enjoying a drink from their menu of 250 bottled beers. Dogs are welcome too, so bring the whole family and enjoy the sunshine. From time to time, you'll be treated to a movie on their huge projection screen. Their menu features tasty bar snacks like sandwiches, hot dogs, and nachos. Factor in the friendly service, and this place is perfect to enjoy a Lone Star on a beautiful day.
The Bonham Exchange, simply known as "The Bonham," is a large and popular nightclub a couple of blocks away from River Center Mall. Although the Bonham still primarily sees itself as a lesbian/gay club, times have changed and the club now boasts a more diverse clientele. Dance on one of the club's three dance floors and when you are hot and tired, enjoy a drink on the patio. If you are hungry, you can usually find someone selling tacos or hamburgers. There is a small room between the first and second floors of the main dance floor with newspapers, flyers and other information about the lesbian/gay community.
It all started in 1881 when trappers, hunters and cowboys traded deer antlers for beer or whiskey at Albert Friedrich's saloon. Now, the saloon/museum's Hall of Horns, Hall of Feathers and Hall of Fins house not only the largest, but also some of the most impressive collections of native and exotic wildlife around. If you're squeamish about mounted deer heads, fish and fowl, then don't go. If you're awed by how large deer antlers can grow to be, by just how large of a mouth that a large-mouth bass can have, or at the wingspan of native turkeys, then you'll love this place. You can even bring in a set of antlers or a stuffed fish to trade at the bar for a whiskey or sarsaparilla.
If you're looking for a weekend dance party, head to The Industry. This club keeps the night lively by playing your favorite dance tunes from the 80s and 90s. The dance floor isn't huge, but it manages to get packed. Pair the cool tunes with reasonably priced cover charges and drinks, and it's easy to see why this place is one of San Antonio's favorite dance spots.
For some fun, food, and a relaxed time, Esquire Tavern has got you covered. The ambiance is cool and casual - great for hanging out with friends and loved ones. Some of the items on the menu include the shrimp sandwich, hanger steak salad, bacon cheeseburger, and fried apple pie. Uniquely mixed cocktails, such as the Warpaint and Lord Loves a Working Man are sure to impress even the pickiest of cocktail aficionados.
Sushi Zushi is a neighborhood favorite for sushis. The Japanese and fusion cuisine that is much appreciated here, offers you dishes like the soft-shell crab, San Antonio roll, river walk roll, gyoza, tuna tar, sushi rolls and more. The ambiance is classy with an attentive and warm service. Accompany your meals with a cocktail of your choice from the extensive bar. For more information and reservations, call ahead.
Pamper your taste buds by digging into delectable modern Mexican fare at Acenar. The popular Mexican restaurant offers patrons fine dining in an expansive space. Tortilla Soup, Stewed Pork Tips and Buttermilk Fried Oysters are just some of the delicacies on offer. Enjoy the exquisitely prepared food in the main dining area, lay back with Latin American drinks in the bar or simply relax in the lounge. However, the highlight of the restaurant is the lovely outdoor patio and the stunning river views that it offers. If you decide to try out this place, know that the best to visit is during happy hours when you can enjoy Platitos and cocktails for USD 5 every evening.
Here's a place where you won't feel you've had enough once you start digging into the authentic Mexican cuisine. Check out the Fajita Nachos served with Iron Cactus cheese blend or the Roasted Poblano Caesar Salad dressed in the signature Poblano Caesar dressing and red chilly and garlic croûtons, to boost your appetite. If you've been watching your calories, the Guiltless Low Carb Fajitas, a beef/chicken preparation wrapped in lettuce is just for you. The Iron Cactus is a stylish option for special events or business luncheons.
Las Canarias is located inside one of San Antonio's most historic hotels, Omni La Mansion del Rio. It offers formal, courtyard and patio dining in addition to providing room service for hotel guests. Renowned chef Scott Cohen, who was formally trained in France, strives to provide food and service that goes beyond guests' expectations. Chef's specialty, grilled swordfish is a must. The restaurant also offers burgers and fries for the kids. A full bar and an extensive wine selection are also on hand. Locals flock to the restaurant to enjoy Sunday brunch. Reservations are highly recommended for this meal.
Founded in the year 2014, Bar 414 is a cocktail bar that honors legendary blues master Robert Johnson who recorded his songs at the historic Gunter Hotel room 414. Here visitors can enjoy live music while sipping on 1920s prohibition- era cocktails and spirits. The bar does not serve food; hence cocktails can be accompanied with bar snacks like baked nuts. The venue is popular with both locals and tourists for its happy hours from Monday to Friday between 4p and 7p.