San Antonio's Best Paella [Updated 2025]

I've reviewed 15 fantastic establishments, each offering their own unique take on this beloved dish.

From fragrant saffron to the perfect socarrat, you'll find a variety of flavors and ingredients that showcase the culinary diversity of our vibrant city.

Whether you prefer the traditional seafood blend or are intrigued by innovative vegetarian options, San Antonio has something for every palate.

Join me as I explore these culinary gems, sharing not just where to find the best paella, but also what makes each one a must-try for any food lover.

Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas

Highlights
Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine
Excellent Food and Service
Lively Friday and Saturday Nights
Vibrant Atmosphere
Reasonable Prices

Stepping into Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Grill y Tapas feels like being embraced by a warm, vibrant hug. The blend of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine and lively atmosphere set the perfect stage for an epic paella experience. As I settled in, the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen promised an unforgettable meal.

When my paella arrived, I was struck by its stunning presentation. The dish was a colorful mosaic of seafood, saffron-infused rice, and perfectly cooked vegetables. Each bite transported me straight to the coastal shores of Spain, with a twist of Caribbean flair that Luna Rosa masterfully delivers.

The service in this bustling establishment was commendable; my server was attentive yet not intrusive, making sure my experience was seamless. The reasonable prices for such high-quality dishes only added to the joy of the evening.

Fridays and Saturdays pulse with energy as live music fills the air, enhancing the already lively atmosphere. If you're in San Antonio and hunting for a splendid paella, Luna Rosa is a must-visit. Indulging in their mouthwatering creation is an experience you wouldn't want to miss! I left with a satisfied smile and plans to return.

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Toro Kitchen + Bar

Highlights
Great mix of Spanish cuisine
Cozy atmosphere with live music
Excellent mixology offerings
Impeccable service
Perfect for dates and gatherings

Review of Toro Kitchen + Bar: A Paella Paradise

During my latest culinary adventure, I found myself at Toro Kitchen + Bar, a delightful gem nestled in the heart of San Antonio. As soon as I stepped inside, the cozy ambiance wrapped around me like a warm embrace, with live music setting the perfect backdrop for what was about to unfold.

The paella here is truly a masterpiece. Crafted with a blend of fresh ingredients, it boasts a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to the coasts of Spain. Each bite bursts with perfectly cooked rice, succulent seafood, and fiery chorizo, all singing in harmony. The saffron-infused goodness made the dish an absolute delight!

But let’s not forget the impeccable service! The staff treated us like family, guiding us through the menu with enthusiasm and grace. Plus, their mixology offerings are not to be overlooked; I enjoyed a refreshing cocktail that complemented the meal beautifully.

If you're searching for a spot for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, Toro Kitchen + Bar is the place to be. You’ll leave with a satisfied palate and a smile, dreaming of your next visit. This paella experience is not just a meal—it's a celebration!

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Carmens De La Calle

Highlights
Magical night in Sevilla
Authentic Spanish food
Intimate and cozy setting
Flamenco dancing

As soon as I stepped into Carmens De La Calle, I was transported to a magical night in Sevilla. The intimate and cozy setting exuded an old-world charm that perfectly complemented the authentic Spanish cuisine they were known for.

The highlight of the evening, of course, was the paella. Served in traditional paella pans, the rice was perfectly cooked and infused with the flavors of saffron and seafood. Each bite was a burst of flavorful bliss, leaving me craving for more.

But Carmens De La Calle wasn't just about the food. The ambiance was enhanced by the enchanting sounds of live flamenco dancing. The rhythmic clapping and passionate footwork paired perfectly with the paella, creating a truly memorable and immersive dining experience.

The staff at Carmens De La Calle were knowledgeable and charming, adding to the overall enjoyment of the evening. They were more than happy to answer any questions and provide recommendations, making me feel like a valued guest.

Overall, Carmens De La Calle exceeded my expectations and solidified its position as one of the best paella spots in San Antonio. For a truly authentic Spanish experience filled with delicious paella and mesmerizing flamenco dancing, this hidden gem is a must-visit.

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Las Islas Marias

Highlights
Impressive portions
Live band
Attentive waiter
Favorite seafood spot
Delicious mango drinks

Walking into Las Islas Marias, I was immediately captivated by the lively atmosphere. The restaurant buzzed with energy as a live band serenaded guests, setting the perfect mood for an unforgettable dining experience.

As my attentive waiter led me to my table, I couldn't help but notice the impressive portions being served to nearby diners. My mouth watered in anticipation, knowing that I was in for a treat.

When it came time to order, choosing the paella was a no-brainer. After all, I was on a mission to find the best paella in San Antonio. Las Islas Marias did not disappoint. The paella arrived steaming hot, bursting with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The flavors danced on my palate, blending perfectly with the fresh seafood and perfectly cooked rice.

One thing that truly set Las Islas Marias apart was their commitment to customer satisfaction. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that each diner's needs were met, providing prompt and friendly service throughout the evening.

To complement my paella, I sampled their delicious mango drinks, which added a refreshing touch to the meal and further elevated my dining experience.

Las Islas Marias has certainly earned its place as a favorite seafood spot in San Antonio. From the impressive portions to the lively atmosphere, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a paella aficionado or simply in search of a delightful seafood feast, make sure to add Las Islas Marias to your list of must-visit restaurants in San Antonio.

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Spanish Cuisine by iloveaceite

Spanish Cuisine by iloveaceite is a culinary haven for paella enthusiasts in San Antonio. This vibrant eatery boasts an irresistible menu that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Spain. The paella here is a work of art, with flavorful saffron-infused rice, tender pieces of succulent seafood, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. Every bite is a symphony of flavors that dances on your tongue. The staff at Spanish Cuisine by iloveaceite are knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, ensuring that each dish is prepared with love and attention to detail. For the best paella in town, don't miss out on Spanish Cuisine by iloveaceite!

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Las Islas Marias (Perrin Beitel)

Highlights
Good service
Great food
Delicious
Fresh fish tacos
Recommended dishes

As soon as I stepped into Las Islas Marias (Perrin Beitel), I was greeted with a warm smile and prompt service. The staff was genuinely friendly and made me feel right at home.

But let's talk about the paella. Oh, the paella! It was truly a feast for the senses. From the moment it arrived at the table, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water in anticipation.

Each bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The rice was perfectly cooked and every ingredient was fresh and vibrant. The generous portions of seafood, including succulent shrimp and tender squid, were cooked to absolute perfection. It was a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more.

While the paella was the star of the show, I couldn't help but also try their fresh fish tacos. They were delightful and a nice addition to the meal, adding a touch of variety to my dining experience.

Overall, I highly recommend Las Islas Marias (Perrin Beitel) for their excellent service, great food, and of course, their outstanding paella. It's a place where you can indulge in a delicious meal and be treated like family.

If you find yourself looking for the best paella in San Antonio, make sure to visit Las Islas Marias (Perrin Beitel) and prepare to have your taste buds amazed. You won't be disappointed!

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Cappy's Restaurant

Highlights
Exceptional service
Impressive food
Fascinating bread and butter
Scrumptious homemade bread
Beautiful patio dining

Let me start off by saying that the service at Cappy's Restaurant is truly exceptional. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and felt like a valued guest throughout the entire meal. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was top-notch.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was I impressed! Cappy's certainly knows how to deliver delicious dishes. Their paella, in particular, left me speechless. It was a harmonious mix of flavors, with perfectly cooked rice, succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Each bite was bursting with aromatic spices and the taste just transported me straight to Spain.

But hold on, before diving into the paella, I must mention the fascinating bread and butter that was served as we waited for our main course. The bread was homemade, and you could tell. It was warm, crusty on the outside, and delightfully fluffy on the inside. Slathered with the creamy, scrumptious butter, it was an absolute treat.

And let's not forget about the atmosphere. Cappy's has a beautiful patio dining area. I enjoyed my meal while soaking up the San Antonio sunshine and taking in the charming surroundings. It added a certain charm to the whole experience.

All in all, my visit to Cappy's Restaurant was an absolute delight. The exceptional service, impressive food, fascinating bread and butter, and beautiful patio dining made it a truly memorable dining experience. If you're on the hunt for the best paella in San Antonio, Cappy's is not to be missed.

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Azuca Nuevo Latino

Highlights
Excellent experience
Best mixed seafood dish
Generous portions
Tasty cornbread
Variety of options

Visiting Azuca Nuevo Latino was an excellent experience in my quest to find the best paella in San Antonio. From the moment I stepped inside, the vibrant Latin vibes and warm atmosphere transported me to a tropical paradise.

Now, let's talk paella. Azuca Nuevo Latino undoubtedly offers the best mixed seafood dish in town. Every forkful revealed succulent shrimp, tender calamari, and juicy mussels, perfectly complemented by a saffron-infused rice bursting with flavors.

And let's not forget the generous portions! The serving size at Azuca Nuevo Latino is hearty enough to satisfy even the most voracious appetites. No need to worry about leaving the table hungry.

Adding to the culinary delight was the scrumptious tasty cornbread served alongside the paella. Its slightly sweet and buttery flavor was the perfect accompaniment to the rich and aromatic seafood dish. I couldn't resist going for seconds.

One of the standout features of Azuca Nuevo Latino is the variety of options available. Whether you're a vegetarian, a seafood lover, or have a preference for meat, they have different types of paellas to cater to all tastes.

Overall, my visit to Azuca Nuevo Latino was a true feast for the senses. With its excellent mixed seafood paella, generous portions, and varied options, it's a must-visit spot for paella enthusiasts in San Antonio. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Hola!

Highlights
Good size portions
Great variety on the menu
Different tastes on each plate
Reasonable prices
Helpful and friendly staff

From the moment I walked into Hola!, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly "¡Hola!" by the staff, instantly putting me in the mood for some delicious paella. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, which made me excited to try their paella offerings.

The menu at Hola! offered a great variety of paella options, each with its own unique twist. I decided to go with the traditional Valencian paella, while my dining companion opted for the seafood paella. When our paellas arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by the generous portion sizes. Each plate was filled to the brim with fragrant rice, succulent meats, and seafood.

With my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The Valencian paella had a perfect balance of flavors, with the smokiness of the saffron-infused rice complementing the tender chicken and the earthiness of the vegetables. Meanwhile, the seafood paella delighted my companion with its briny taste and fresh assortment of shrimp, mussels, and calamari.

What I appreciated most about Hola! was that each plate had its own distinct taste. The chef’s expertise in creating different tastes for each paella was evident, and it made for an exciting and enjoyable dining experience.

Aside from the incredible food, the prices at Hola! were more than reasonable, offering excellent value for the quality and quantity of the paellas.

Throughout our meal, the staff at Hola! were attentive, helpful, and genuinely passionate about their paellas. They were more than happy to answer any questions we had, and their recommendations were spot on.

In conclusion, Hola! is a hidden gem in San Antonio, offering some of the best paella in town. The combination of good size portions, a great variety of flavors, and a friendly staff make Hola! a must-visit for paella enthusiasts or anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Spain. Don't miss out on this delightful paella experience!

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La Marginal

Highlights
Consistent and delicious
Tasty pork, chicken, and rice
Worth the price
Top tier Puerto Rican food
Excellent service

Upon walking in, I was excited to see a lively space with a tropical vibe and welcoming staff. The menu boasted a variety of Puerto Rican dishes, but my main focus was on their paella. I had heard great things about this place, so my expectations were high.

When the paella was served, the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain holding onto the flavors of the tasty pork and juicy chicken. Every bite was a burst of delightful flavors and textures. The seafood was fresh, adding a delightful oceanic touch to the dish. The paella was abundant in ingredients and seasoned to perfection. It was a true masterpiece.

Not only was the paella delicious, but the service was also impeccable. The staff was attentive and genuinely passionate about their food, willing to answer any questions and provide recommendations. They made the dining experience feel personalized and cared for. It's clear that the staff at La Marginal takes pride in their craft.

While the prices at La Marginal may be a bit on the higher side, the quality and taste of their paella make it worth every penny. This restaurant is undoubtedly one of the top-tier Puerto Rican food establishments in San Antonio.

In conclusion, if you're a paella enthusiast or just looking to try some flavorful Puerto Rican cuisine, La Marginal is the place to go. Their consistent and delicious paella, combined with their excellent service, make for an enjoyable and memorable dining experience.

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Ostra Restaurant

Ostra Restaurant in San Antonio proved to be a delightful surprise for paella enthusiasts like myself. The aromatic saffron-infused rice was perfectly cooked and abundant with succulent seafood. Each bite was a flavorful burst of the ocean, bringing me closer to paella paradise. Ostra Restaurant definitely knows how to make a paella worth chasing after.

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Dorrego’s

I must say, stepping into Dorrego’s was like entering the lively streets of Buenos Aires. The aroma of saffron and spices filled the air, instantly transporting me to the heart of Spain. I ordered their traditional seafood paella, and boy, was it a fiesta for the taste buds. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the plump shrimp, tender calamari, and perfectly cooked rice stealing the show. The saffron-infused broth was like liquid gold, adding a richness that made me want to lick my plate clean. The portion size was generous, allowing me to savor every last morsel. The service was impeccable, with the attentive staff making sure I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal. Dorrego’s truly captures the essence of paella and transports you to the vibrant streets of Spain. I would highly recommend this place for any paella enthusiast looking for an authentic and memorable experience. So, if you find yourself in San Antonio craving a taste of Spain, make sure to put Dorrego’s at the top of your list. You won't be disappointed!

La Perla Del Pacifico

La Perla Del Pacifico in San Antonio offers a delightful paella experience that tickles the taste buds and transports you to the shores of Spain. The authentic flavors and perfectly cooked rice make every bite a fiesta for your senses. Don't miss the mouthwatering seafood paella, filled with succulent shrimp and tender mussels. It's a little slice of gastronomic heaven, right in the heart of San Antonio.

EL PILÓN SABOR BORICUA

EL PILÓN SABOR BORICUA in San Antonio deserves a shout-out for their mouthwatering paella. The flavors dance on your taste buds, with a harmonious combination of perfectly cooked rice, tender seafood, and a delightful blend of spices. Don't forget to bring your appetite because this paella is fit for a feast!

Chart House

The Chart House in San Antonio is a delightful culinary voyage. The paella is a symphony of flavors, with perfectly cooked rice, succulent seafood, and a touch of smoky saffron. The atmosphere is captivating, with stunning riverfront views that make it an ideal spot for an unforgettable dining experience.