15 Best Margaritas in San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas, is well-known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious Mexican cuisine. One of the most iconic drinks that embodies the spirit of San Antonio is the margarita. Whether you’re strolling along the Riverwalk or relaxing on a rooftop, you can find an impressive selection of handcrafted margaritas throughout the city. Below are 15 of the best Margaritas in San Antonio.

1. La Fonda on Main

La Fonda on Main is a historic Tex-Mex institution that has been serving the San Antonio community since 1932. Located in a charming hacienda-style building, it offers classic Mexican dishes along with a variety of well-crafted margaritas. The ambiance, filled with vintage charm, creates the perfect setting to unwind.

Why Choose It

You should choose La Fonda on Main if you’re looking for a blend of history, authenticity, and a cozy atmosphere. Their margaritas are crafted with care, offering a range of flavors from classic to fruity, and their Tex-Mex dishes perfectly complement the drinks. The outdoor patio is especially popular during pleasant weather.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Historical charm
• Cozy, welcoming ambiance
• Wide variety of margaritas

Cons:

• Can get crowded during peak hours
• Parking can be a challenge

2. Rosario’s Comida Mex & Bar

Rosario’s Comida Mex & Bar is a lively restaurant known for its bold Mexican flavors and modern twist on traditional dishes. The margaritas here are equally famous, with options ranging from the traditional to the innovative “Spicy Rita.”

Why Choose It

Rosario’s is a top choice if you enjoy fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails. The “Spicy Rita” adds a unique twist to the classic margarita, combining heat and tang in perfect balance. Plus, the restaurant’s energetic atmosphere makes it a fun spot for group gatherings or casual nights out.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Creative margarita options
• Lively, upbeat environment
• Excellent food and drink pairing

Cons:

• Noise level can be high
• Limited seating during busy times

3. Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine

Paloma Blanca offers an upscale dining experience with its refined Mexican cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails. Located in the posh Alamo Heights neighborhood, the restaurant has a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, making it perfect for special occasions.

Why Choose It

If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience with top-notch margaritas, Paloma Blanca is the place. Their menu includes premium tequila selections, and their margaritas are made using only the finest ingredients. It’s a great spot for both casual dinners and more formal celebrations.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Upscale atmosphere
• High-quality ingredients
• Great for special occasions

Cons:

• Pricier than casual spots
• Limited outdoor seating

4. The Fruteria

The Fruteria brings a burst of color and freshness to San Antonio’s food and drink scene. Known for its vibrant fruit-based cocktails, The Fruteria serves a variety of refreshing margaritas that combine fresh fruit juices with high-quality tequila.

Why Choose It

Choose The Fruteria if you’re in the mood for a margarita that highlights fresh, natural flavors. Whether it’s a watermelon, pineapple, or cucumber margarita, each drink feels like a fresh twist on the classic. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a light, flavorful margarita with friends.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fresh fruit-based margaritas
• Colorful, fun setting
• Light and refreshing drinks

Cons:

• Smaller menu for food options
• Can get busy in the evenings

5. Naranja Tequila & Mezcal Bar

Naranja Tequila & Mezcal Bar is a trendy hotspot specializing in agave-based spirits. Their margaritas, crafted with both tequila and mezcal, offer a smoky twist that sets them apart from the traditional drink.

Why Choose It

For those who love exploring unique flavors, Naranja’s margaritas are a must-try. The combination of tequila and mezcal creates a more complex drink, ideal for those with adventurous taste buds. The ambiance is modern and chic, making it a great spot for a night out.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique mezcal margaritas
• Trendy, modern vibe
• Extensive tequila selection

Cons:

• Limited seating
• Prices can be higher

6. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar

Iron Cactus is a popular chain with a presence throughout Texas, including San Antonio. It’s well-known for offering a wide variety of margaritas and classic Mexican dishes, making it a reliable spot for locals and tourists alike.

Why Choose It

Iron Cactus is perfect for those who want variety. With several types of margaritas on the menu, from classic lime to frozen options, there’s something for every palate. It’s a great spot for large groups thanks to its spacious seating and lively atmosphere.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide variety of margaritas
• Lively atmosphere
• Great for groups

Cons:

• Chain restaurant feel
• Can get crowded

7. Ocho at Hotel Havana

Ocho at Hotel Havana is a stunning rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of the San Antonio Riverwalk. Their cocktails, including handcrafted margaritas, are expertly mixed, and the ambiance is chic yet comfortable.

Why Choose It

If you want to sip a margarita while taking in beautiful city views, Ocho is the place. The atmosphere is relaxed and elegant, and their margaritas are a refreshing treat after a long day of exploring San Antonio. It’s a hidden gem for those who love rooftop experiences.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Amazing rooftop views
• Elegant ambiance
• Delicious handcrafted cocktails

Cons:

• Limited drink menu
• Can get cold in the evening

8. La Gloria

La Gloria focuses on bringing the authentic flavors of Mexican street food to San Antonio. This casual restaurant has a reputation for serving fresh and flavorful dishes, paired with a menu of well-made margaritas.

Why Choose It

La Gloria’s laid-back vibe and commitment to authentic flavors make it an excellent spot for margarita lovers. Their drinks are refreshing, with just the right balance of tequila and citrus. It’s the perfect place to kick back after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Authentic Mexican flavors
• Relaxed atmosphere
• Affordable margaritas

Cons:

• Limited seating during peak hours
• Slightly touristy location

9. Boudro’s on the Riverwalk

Boudro’s is a San Antonio classic, located right on the famous Riverwalk. Known for its romantic riverside dining, Boudro’s serves a fantastic selection of margaritas, including their famous prickly pear version.

Why Choose It

Boudro’s offers the perfect combination of beautiful views and expertly crafted margaritas. The prickly pear margarita is a fan favorite, and the riverside setting adds an extra layer of charm to your dining experience. It’s a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Beautiful riverside location
• Unique margarita flavors
• Romantic atmosphere

Cons:

• High prices
• Can be crowded with tourists

10. The Esquire Tavern

The Esquire Tavern is a historic bar that has been around since the end of Prohibition. It’s known for its long bar, vintage décor, and a wide selection of craft cocktails, including their signature margaritas.

Why Choose It

If you’re a history buff or just appreciate a classic setting, The Esquire Tavern should be on your list. Their margaritas are strong, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, offering a great blend of tradition and taste. The dark, moody atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for a cozy evening out.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Historic charm
• Excellent craft cocktails
• Unique ambiance

Cons:

• Can get loud
• Limited seating

11. My Friend’s Backyard

My Friend’s Backyard is a laid-back bar and restaurant with a casual atmosphere and a menu of affordable margaritas. It’s the perfect spot for a low-key night out with friends.

Why Choose It

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, affordable spot to enjoy a margarita, My Friend’s Backyard is your go-to. The drinks are simple but tasty, and the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. It’s an ideal place for kicking back after a long day.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable margaritas
• Relaxed atmosphere
• Great for groups

Cons:

• Limited cocktail variety
• Not as refined as other spots

12. Taco Garage

Taco Garage is a trendy taco joint that’s as much about the food as it is about the drinks. Known for its creative taco selections, Taco Garage also offers a great variety of margaritas, from the classic to the inventive.

Why Choose It

Taco Garage is perfect if you’re in the mood for a delicious margarita alongside some of the best tacos in town. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making it a great place to enjoy casual yet flavorful Mexican food and drinks.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Delicious tacos and margaritas
• Trendy, casual atmosphere
• Great for quick bites

Cons:

• Limited seating
• Service can be slow during peak times

13. The Good Kind

The Good Kind is a popular spot in San Antonio known for its commitment to fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft cocktails, including refreshing and vibrant margaritas.

Why Choose It

For those who prefer clean, fresh flavors, The Good Kind is a top pick. Their margaritas are light and made with quality ingredients, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The garden-like outdoor seating is a great perk for those who enjoy dining in a tranquil setting.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fresh, light ingredients
• Tranquil outdoor seating
• Farm-to-table focus

Cons:

• Small drink menu
• Slightly out of the way

14. Paramour Bar & Colette at the Phipps

Paramour Bar is a rooftop bar known for its panoramic views of the city and expertly crafted cocktails. The bar’s margaritas, made with top-shelf ingredients, are a must-try for those looking for an elevated cocktail experience.

Why Choose It

Paramour Bar offers one of the best rooftop views in San Antonio, making it the perfect place to enjoy a margarita while taking in the city skyline. The drinks are carefully crafted, ensuring that each margarita is as impressive as the view.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stunning rooftop views
• Excellent margarita selection
• Chic atmosphere

Cons:

• Expensive drinks
• Limited seating

15. Carriqui

Carriqui is a Mexican restaurant and bar with a focus on authentic cuisine and craft cocktails. Their margarita menu is extensive, offering both classic options and innovative flavors like the popular “Spicy Rita.”

Why Choose It

If you’re in search of a margarita with a kick, Carriqui’s “Spicy Rita” is sure to impress. The balance of spice and tang creates a unique drink experience, and the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a lively spot for an evening out.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique margarita flavors
• Fun, lively environment
• Authentic Mexican cuisine

Cons:

• Can be a bit noisy
• Slightly more expensive

Read Also: 15 Best Espresso Spots in San Antonio

Final Words

San Antonio offers a diverse range of spots where you can enjoy a top-notch margarita. Whether you’re after a classic experience or something with a unique twist, these 15 places will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.