The Absolute Best Tex Mex in Downtown San Antonio [Updated 2024]

I have personally reviewed a staggering 15 tex mex restaurants in the heart of San Antonio, searching for the most authentic flavors, the tastiest dishes, and the most welcoming atmospheres. Get ready to embark on a lighthearted Texan adventure with me as we explore the culinary gems that this vibrant city has to offer.

So grab your appetite and your sense of humor, because we are about to embark on a delicious journey through the very best of downtown San Antonio's tex mex scene. Let's dig in!

Tito's Mexican Restaurant

Highlights
Local atmosphere
Amazing food
Freshly made tortillas
Great quality beef
Friendly waitstaff

From the moment I stepped foot into Tito's, I was transported into a delightful local atmosphere. The vibrant colors, rustic decor, and mariachi music playing in the background instantly set the tone for an authentic tex mex dining experience.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh, the food at Tito's is simply amazing. Every bite was like a fiesta in my mouth. The flavors were bold, the portions generous, and the dishes were beautifully presented. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas, Tito's has a wide range of options that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

What sets Tito's apart from other tex mex restaurants is their commitment to using freshly made tortillas. The aroma of the warm tortillas filled the air, and their softness and flavor were unmatched. Trust me, once you taste their tortillas, you'll never want any other kind again.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the beef. Tito's uses only the highest quality beef, and it truly makes a difference. The meat was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether it was in their tacos, burritos, or carne asada, the beef at Tito's was always a hit.

But it's not just the food that makes Tito's special. The friendly waitstaff greeted me with a warm smile and made me feel right at home. They were attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure I had an enjoyable dining experience.

In conclusion, Tito's Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit for any tex mex lover in Downtown San Antonio. With its local atmosphere, amazing food, freshly made tortillas, great quality beef, and friendly waitstaff, Tito's truly stands out as one of the best tex mex options in town.

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Cuishe Cocina Mexicana

Highlights
Delicious food and drinks
Gorgeous setup on the patio
Friendly staff
Unique menu options
Cool building with an outside patio

Walking into Cuishe Cocina Mexicana, I immediately noticed its gorgeous setup on the patio. The vibrant colors and comfortable seating made it the perfect spot to enjoy a Tex Mex meal. The staff greeted me with a warm smile and guided me to a table.

As I perused the menu, I was thrilled to find a variety of unique options. It was clear that Cuishe Cocina Mexicana offered something different from your typical Tex Mex joint. I decided to start with their famous avocado tostadas and was blown away by the combination of flavors. The creamy avocado, crunchy tostada, and tangy lime made it an unforgettable appetizer.

For my entree, I couldn't resist ordering the enchiladas de jamaica. I mean, who can say no to hibiscus flower enchiladas? The dish arrived looking like a work of art with its vibrant red sauce and garnishments. One bite and I was transported to Tex Mex heaven. The tender hibiscus flowers and rich sauce were an explosion of flavors that left me craving for more.

To accompany my meal, I tried their signature margarita. The blend of tequila, lime, and a hint of jalapeno was a refreshing twist on a classic drink. It perfectly complemented the bold flavors of the Tex Mex cuisine.

Overall, my experience at Cuishe Cocina Mexicana was beyond satisfying. The delicious food and drinks, friendly staff, and cool building with an outside patio all contributed to an unforgettable Tex Mex experience. If you're looking for a unique Tex Mex experience in Downtown San Antonio, be sure to check out Cuishe Cocina Mexicana. You won't be disappointed!

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Pete's Tako House

Highlights
Homemade Tacos
Friendly Staff
Amazing Tortilla Soup
Plentiful Street Tacos

Walking into Pete's Tako House, I immediately felt like I had stepped into a tex mex lover's paradise. The smell of homemade tacos filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat. The staff greeted me with a warm welcome, making me feel right at home.

One of the highlights of my visit was the homemade tacos. The tortillas were soft, flavorful, and had just the right amount of crispness. I sampled their carne asada, barbacoa, and shrimp tacos, and each one was a delight to my taste buds. The meats were tender and juicy, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

In addition to the tacos, I couldn't resist trying their tortilla soup. And let me tell you, it was amazing. The broth was rich and flavorful, filled with tender chicken and topped with crispy tortilla strips. It was the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.

One thing I loved about Pete's Tako House was their street tacos. They were small in size but big in flavor. Whether it was the classic al pastor or the tangy fish tacos, each one was a burst of authentic tex mex goodness.

Overall, Pete's Tako House is a must-visit for any tex mex enthusiast in Downtown San Antonio. From their homemade tacos to their friendly staff, this place has all the elements of a great tex mex experience. So grab your appetite and head over to Pete's Tako House for a truly memorable meal.

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Rio Rio Cantina

Highlights
Great service
Amazing margaritas
Recommended drinks

Let me start with the highlight of my visit: the great service! From the moment I walked in, the staff at Rio Rio Cantina made sure I felt welcomed and well taken care of. They were attentive, friendly, and always had a smile on their faces.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the amazing margaritas! Rio Rio Cantina knows how to craft the perfect margarita. The blend of flavors was expertly balanced, and each sip was a delight for my taste buds. They offer a variety of margarita options, from classic to fruity twists, and I can confidently say that every single one I tried was top-notch.

Rio Rio Cantina also has a selection of recommended drinks that are worth mentioning. Whether you prefer a cold beer or a refreshing cocktail, their drink menu has something for everyone. I highly recommend trying one of their signature drink creations - you won't be disappointed!

In terms of the food, Rio Rio Cantina offers a wide range of tex mex dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From sizzling fajitas to cheesy enchiladas, their menu offers all the classic tex mex favorites. The flavors were bold and delicious, and I appreciated the generous portion sizes.

Overall, my experience at Rio Rio Cantina was a delightful one. The combination of great service, amazing margaritas, and delicious tex mex dishes makes it a standout choice for anyone looking for the best tex mex in Downtown San Antonio. So, if you find yourself in the area, make sure to swing by Rio Rio Cantina and enjoy a taste of tex mex paradise!

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Guadalajara Grill

Highlights
Fun and Delicious
Authentic flavors
Attentive service
Gluten-Free options
Plenty of parking

From the moment I walked through the doors of Guadalajara Grill, I could sense the vibrant and fun atmosphere. The rustic decor, with its colorful walls adorned with sombreros and mariachi instruments, set the perfect backdrop for a tex mex dining experience.

But let's talk about the food. Oh, the flavors! Every bite transported me to the streets of Mexico with its authentic taste. From the sizzling fajitas to the mouthwatering enchiladas, Guadalajara Grill truly knows how to satisfy any Tex Mex cravings.

What impressed me most, however, was the attentive service. The waitstaff were knowledgeable about the menu and took the time to ensure that all our needs were met. Whether it was dietary restrictions or special requests, they went above and beyond to accommodate their guests.

For those with dietary restrictions, Guadalajara Grill also offers gluten-free options. I appreciate a restaurant that caters to all diners, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their meals without worry.

And let's not forget the convenience of plenty of parking. In Downtown San Antonio, finding parking can sometimes be a challenge, but Guadalajara Grill makes it easy for patrons to enjoy their meals without the added stress.

Overall, my experience at Guadalajara Grill was a true delight. The combination of fun, authentic flavors, attentive service, and gluten-free options make it a standout tex mex eatery in Downtown San Antonio. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by Guadalajara Grill for a memorable dining experience.

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Mixtli

Highlights
10 course experience
Wonderful flavors and presentation
Personalized drink with bubbles
Original presentation of dishes
Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff

Mixtli offers a truly unique and playful dining experience that has the perfect blend of professionalism and excitement. The concept of a 10-course experience might sound daunting, but trust me, it's worth every bite.

From the moment I stepped into Mixtli, I knew I was in for a treat. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff instantly made me feel welcome. The dining room was beautifully decorated, with a nod to traditional Mexican culture.

Each course at Mixtli was a work of art. The wonderful flavors and creative presentation of the dishes left me in awe. Every bite was bursting with a combination of traditional tex mex flavors and modern twists. I especially loved how each dish showcased a different aspect of tex mex cuisine, from the smoky flavors of grilled meats to the bold and tangy spices of their salsas.

One highlight of the evening was the personalized drink that came with bubbles. It was a refreshing and unexpected surprise that perfectly complemented the flavors of the food. I also appreciated the original presentation of each dish, with vibrant colors and artistic plating.

Overall, the dining experience at Mixtli was nothing short of extraordinary. The attention to detail, the passion for tex mex cuisine, and the warm hospitality of the staff made it a truly memorable experience. If you're looking for the best tex mex in Downtown San Antonio, I highly recommend giving Mixtli a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar

Highlights
Best food
Great service
Unique guacamole approach

Walking into Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar, I immediately felt transported to a vibrant and lively atmosphere. As a Tex Mex enthusiast, I have high expectations for great food and Iron Cactus did not disappoint. The food here is simply the best. Every bite burst with authentic flavors and left me craving more.

One of the highlights of my visit was the impeccable service. The staff was not only attentive, but also extremely knowledgeable about the menu. They offered helpful suggestions and made sure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Whether I had questions about the ingredients or wanted to know the chef's special recommendations, they were always ready to assist.

Now, let's talk about the guacamole at Iron Cactus. They have a unique approach. Instead of the traditional tableside preparation, they serve a variety of guacamole flavors. From classic to adventurous combinations, they cater to every taste bud. The guacamole was the perfect starter and left me eagerly anticipating the main course.

Overall, Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant and Margarita Bar is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best Tex Mex in Downtown San Antonio. The combination of delicious food, exceptional service, and their unique guacamole approach sets them apart from other tex mex establishments. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this place guarantees a memorable dining experience.

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Casa Rio

Highlights
Great Mexican Food
Fresh Salsa
Quick Service
Fantastic Recommendations
Good Margaritas

Casa Rio is undeniably a standout tex mex restaurant in Downtown San Antonio. From the moment I stepped through the colorful, Southwestern-inspired entrance, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my attention was the tantalizing aroma of great Mexican food. The flavorsome blend of spices in their dishes made my taste buds dance with delight. Every bite was a fiesta in my mouth.

The fresh salsa was a standout for me. It had just the right amount of zip and zest, perfectly complementing the savory dishes. I couldn't resist ordering extra to take home and enjoy later.

The quick service at Casa Rio truly impressed me. Despite the restaurant being busy during my visit, the staff was highly efficient and attentive. They swiftly took my order and served it piping hot. I appreciated the seamless dining experience.

One of the aspects that stood out was the staff's fantastic recommendations. They were knowledgeable about the menu and eagerly suggested their personal favorites. Their passion for the food was contagious, and I found myself trying dishes I wouldn't have considered otherwise.

Let's not forget the good margaritas! Casa Rio knows how to mix up a refreshing and tangy cocktail that pairs perfectly with their flavorful tex mex cuisine. Sipping on a margarita while enjoying my meal elevated the entire experience.

In conclusion, Casa Rio has definitely earned its spot on the list of the best tex mex restaurants in Downtown San Antonio. With fantastic food, fresh salsa, quick service, fantastic recommendations, and good margaritas, it's a tex mex destination that should not be missed. So, grab your sombrero and head on over for an unforgettable dining experience. ¡Buen provecho!

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Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar

Highlights
Impeccable service
Delicious food
Great salsa
Reasonable table spacing
Quick food service on busy nights

First things first, let's talk about the impeccable service I received at Rosario's. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a friendly demeanor. The staff at Rosario's are prompt, attentive, and have a genuine passion for ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Now, let's get down to the most important aspect of any restaurant review - the food! And boy, oh boy, does Rosario's deliver on the flavor front. The tex mex cuisine here is delicious, with bold flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you're craving fajitas, enchiladas, or tacos, Rosario's has got you covered.

What truly impressed me was the salsa. It was the perfect balance of heat and tanginess, and I couldn't help but slather it on every bite. It added an extra kick to the already flavorful dishes and made the experience even more enjoyable.

In terms of ambiance, Rosario's offers a comfortable and relaxed setting. The tables are reasonably spaced, allowing for a pleasant dining experience without feeling cramped. Whether you're visiting for a casual lunch or a fun night out, Rosario's is the perfect spot.

Lastly, I have to commend Rosario's for their quick food service on busy nights. It's not uncommon for tex mex restaurants to experience long wait times, especially during peak hours, but Rosario's manages to keep up the pace without sacrificing quality.

Overall, my experience at Rosario's ComidaMex & Bar was top-notch. The combination of impeccable service, delicious food, great salsa, reasonable table spacing, and quick food service on busy nights makes it a standout in the Downtown San Antonio tex mex scene. I highly recommend giving Rosario's a try if you're looking for a tex mex dining experience that won't disappoint.

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Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia

Highlights
Amazing food and service
Large portions of tasty food
Fresh and delicious pan dulce
Great coffee
Fun decor and live mariachis

From the moment I walked through the colorful entrance, I knew I was in for a treat. Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia has an atmosphere that is both lively and welcoming, with vibrant decorations and live mariachis serenading the diners.

The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the amazing food and exceptional service. The menu offers a wide variety of tex mex dishes, from hearty enchiladas to sizzling fajitas. Every dish that arrived at my table was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The portions were generous, ensuring that no one leaves hungry.

One of the standout features of Mi Tierra is their fresh and delicious pan dulce. I highly recommend trying some after your meal. The bakery adjacent to the cafe is stocked with an impressive array of sweet treats that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

To complement the delicious food, Mi Tierra offers a great selection of coffee. I sipped on a rich and aromatic cup of coffee that perfectly rounded out my meal.

In addition to the scrumptious food and beverages, the atmosphere at Mi Tierra is undeniably enjoyable. The colorful decorations and lively ambiance create a festive vibe that is perfect for any occasion.

Overall, my experience at Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia in Downtown San Antonio was top-notch. The combination of amazing food, friendly service, and fun atmosphere make it a must-visit for any tex mex lover. I cannot wait to return and indulge in another tex mex feast.

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Acenar Mexican Restaurant

Acenar Mexican Restaurant in Downtown San Antonio is a bold and vibrant tex mex spot that will transport your taste buds straight to fiesta town! Their sizzling fajitas are packed with flavor and their margaritas are the perfect accompaniment. The atmosphere is hip, and the service is top-notch. A must-visit for any tex mex connoisseur!

Cascabel Mexican Patio

Oh, boy! Cascabel Mexican Patio in Downtown San Antonio is a fiesta for the taste buds! Their tex mex dishes are pure foodie heaven. From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering enchiladas, every bite bursts with flavor. Order their famous margarita, too! It's a must! Cascabel Mexican Patio gets my stamp of approval!

La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar

La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Downtown San Antonio is a playful yet authentic gem of a tex mex joint. From their tantalizing selection of sizzling fajitas to their drool-worthy margaritas, this place hits all the right notes. Don't miss their oyster bar for a delightful twist on traditional tex mex!

The Original Mexican Restaurant

Oh, what a fiesta for my taste buds! The Original Mexican Restaurant in Downtown San Antonio truly lives up to its name. With flavors so authentic and a lively atmosphere that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico, it's a tex mex haven. Don't miss their mouthwatering enchiladas and their legendary margaritas. Trust me, it's the real deal.

Poblano's On Houston St.

Poblano's On Houston St. in Downtown San Antonio is a fiesta for the taste buds. The sizzling fajitas and crowd-pleasing enchiladas left me craving for more. Plus, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit for any tex mex aficionado in the area.