The 50 best bars in San Antonio 2023

After compiling lists of the 100 best bars in San Antonio for the past two years, the Current has slimmed its 2023 list down to half as many.

Why? Certainly not because of a dearth of worthy drinking spots. They keep proliferating as the Alamo City grows, creeping into new parts of town and switching hands as new owners with creative ideas try their hand in the business.

No, we decided to make 50 the magic number this year to give the list more exclusivity. Nothing wrong with 100, but with 50, we had to make hard choices, including leaving some cherished longtime favorites off the list and passing over a few new and hip nightspots.

In other words, there may be some painful omissions, but you, dear reader, can feel assured that we're presenting a list of watering holes that are truly exceptional and worthy of exploration.

Keep in mind that this is a snapshot in time. As with all lists of its type, the makeup could change if we redid it next week. If you don't see your favorite spot, relax and remember it may well make the cut next year. If you see a place you can't stand, hey, it's a subjective process. Besides, there's always the risk the exposure would bring a flood of losers who ruin the essence of your favorite haunt.

What we can assure you is that we had a blast assembling this list, and that it's representative of San Antonio's unique, diverse and ever-evolving nightlife scene.

Cheers!

Reviews written by Nina Rangel, Sanford Nowlin, Bryan Rindfuss, Travis E. Poling and Michael Karlis.
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17. Cootey's Tavern
This North Star-area neighborhood joint has been slinging no-nonsense drinks and casual atmosphere since 1969. From pool to darts, live trivia to karaoke, Cootey's offers plenty of activities to occupy your time while you swig from a longneck or any one of the daily specials, including $4 whiskey. It won't be long before you're pulled into a conversation with one of the regulars. When you're looking for easygoing vibes and quality people watching, Cootey's is a safe bet that continues to draw a devoted Alamo City following. 8318 Jones Maltsberger Road, #128, (210) 342-4998, cooteystavern.com.
Nina Rangel
17. Cootey's Tavern
This North Star-area neighborhood joint has been slinging no-nonsense drinks and casual atmosphere since 1969. From pool to darts, live trivia to karaoke, Cootey's offers plenty of activities to occupy your time while you swig from a longneck or any one of the daily specials, including $4 whiskey. It won't be long before you're pulled into a conversation with one of the regulars. When you're looking for easygoing vibes and quality people watching, Cootey's is a safe bet that continues to draw a devoted Alamo City following. 8318 Jones Maltsberger Road, #128, (210) 342-4998, cooteystavern.com.
1. 2015 Place
This unpretentious off-the-Main Strip LGBTQ+ hangout remains a favorite thanks to its strong and affordable drinks, neighborhood bar feel and relaxing patio vibes. There's also a DJ, a decent sound system and a small dance floor, not to mention expected diversions such as pool tables and darts. The 2015's charm is that's a little off the beaten path while being just close enough to the Main Street scene. Someone can easily travel between the two, depending on whether they want to crank up the volume or turn it down a notch. 2015 San Pedro Ave., (210) 733-3365, 2015-place.business.site.
Sanford Nowlin
1. 2015 Place
This unpretentious off-the-Main Strip LGBTQ+ hangout remains a favorite thanks to its strong and affordable drinks, neighborhood bar feel and relaxing patio vibes. There's also a DJ, a decent sound system and a small dance floor, not to mention expected diversions such as pool tables and darts. The 2015's charm is that's a little off the beaten path while being just close enough to the Main Street scene. Someone can easily travel between the two, depending on whether they want to crank up the volume or turn it down a notch. 2015 San Pedro Ave., (210) 733-3365, 2015-place.business.site.
2. A Perfect Day
What was touted as simply a "wine bar" at its inception has turned into so much more for the Southtown neighborhood in which A Perfect Day resides. The bright and airy spot now offers a menu of noshable items ranging from cheese boards to steak tartare along with bottled, pre-made cocktails for at-home imbibing. The space is concurrently cozy and spacious, which makes it an equally great locale for an intimate pas de deux or for an after-work group gathering. The vino list spans "quirky" selections by-the-glass, as well as more approachable offerings, so there's likely to be a suitable selection for everyone. 803 S. St. Mary's St., instagram.com/aperfectdaywinebar.
Courtesy Photo / A Perfect Day
2. A Perfect Day
What was touted as simply a "wine bar" at its inception has turned into so much more for the Southtown neighborhood in which A Perfect Day resides. The bright and airy spot now offers a menu of noshable items ranging from cheese boards to steak tartare along with bottled, pre-made cocktails for at-home imbibing. The space is concurrently cozy and spacious, which makes it an equally great locale for an intimate pas de deux or for an after-work group gathering. The vino list spans "quirky" selections by-the-glass, as well as more approachable offerings, so there's likely to be a suitable selection for everyone. 803 S. St. Mary's St., instagram.com/aperfectdaywinebar.
3. The Bang Bang Bar
Although The Bang Bang Bar has all but phased out live music, it's still got charm to spare thanks to its vintage furnishings, inclusive atmosphere and ability to offer a little something for everybody. Want to belly up to the bar for a funky cocktail from a friendly bartender? Go right ahead. Need a cozy conversation spot that feels like grandma's parlor only with the Clash and Blondie playing over the sound system? You're covered. Need a game room with a nostalgia-inducing vintage pinball machine and a Skee-Ball track? They've got you there too, fam. Seven years into its run, Bang Bang is still bangin'. 119 El Mio Drive, (210) 320-1187, thebangbangbartx.com.
Sanford Nowlin
3. The Bang Bang Bar
Although The Bang Bang Bar has all but phased out live music, it's still got charm to spare thanks to its vintage furnishings, inclusive atmosphere and ability to offer a little something for everybody. Want to belly up to the bar for a funky cocktail from a friendly bartender? Go right ahead. Need a cozy conversation spot that feels like grandma's parlor only with the Clash and Blondie playing over the sound system? You're covered. Need a game room with a nostalgia-inducing vintage pinball machine and a Skee-Ball track? They've got you there too, fam. Seven years into its run, Bang Bang is still bangin'. 119 El Mio Drive, (210) 320-1187, thebangbangbartx.com.
4. Bar 1919
A bar must be doing something right when it's regularly packed even though it's located underneath another bar, surrounded by other bars and has pretty much no signage to make you walk down its nondescript stairs. Bar 1919 has leveraged its basement space in the Blue Star Arts Complex to create a craft-cocktail institution. Vested mixologists are well versed in the extensive menu of classic and house cocktails and make solid recommendations when it comes to the spot's enormous bourbon and Scotch selections. A favorite Bar 1919 concoction for those in the know is a shot of a house-made sweet potato-infused Irish whiskey dropped into a Left Hand Milk Stout poured from a nitro gas tap. 1420 S. Alamo St., (210) 227-1420, bar1919.com.
Michael Karlis
4. Bar 1919
A bar must be doing something right when it's regularly packed even though it's located underneath another bar, surrounded by other bars and has pretty much no signage to make you walk down its nondescript stairs. Bar 1919 has leveraged its basement space in the Blue Star Arts Complex to create a craft-cocktail institution. Vested mixologists are well versed in the extensive menu of classic and house cocktails and make solid recommendations when it comes to the spot's enormous bourbon and Scotch selections. A favorite Bar 1919 concoction for those in the know is a shot of a house-made sweet potato-infused Irish whiskey dropped into a Left Hand Milk Stout poured from a nitro gas tap. 1420 S. Alamo St., (210) 227-1420, bar1919.com.
5. Bar America 
This spot has stood the test of time, having served San Antonio for the past 80-plus years. Nestled conveniently in the downtown-abutting end of Southtown, Bar America continues to thrive because it's the perfect place to grab post-dinner drinks or a quick bite after a visit to nearby art galleries. Folks stopping in should definitely try one of the bar's puro San Antonio drinks, such as the Chamoy Shot or the Raspa — made with coconut rum, Big Red and pickle juice. 723 S. Alamo St., (210) 281-5945, facebook.com/baramericasatx.
Michael Karlis
5. Bar America
This spot has stood the test of time, having served San Antonio for the past 80-plus years. Nestled conveniently in the downtown-abutting end of Southtown, Bar America continues to thrive because it's the perfect place to grab post-dinner drinks or a quick bite after a visit to nearby art galleries. Folks stopping in should definitely try one of the bar's puro San Antonio drinks, such as the Chamoy Shot or the Raspa — made with coconut rum, Big Red and pickle juice. 723 S. Alamo St., (210) 281-5945, facebook.com/baramericasatx.
6. Bar at Bohanan's
The Bar at Bohanan's is a frequent backup plan for people who don't have a reservation for the upstairs Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood. No, it's not quite the same as a full steakhouse experience, but access to excellent small bites and some of the steakhouse menu will leave most folks plenty satisfied. Beyond that, the bar is a destination for thoughtfully conceived cocktails, a curated beer and wine selection and some of the city's best bar staff. The legacy of the late Sasha Petraske, a well-known bartender and original advisor to the bar, is carried on with attention to detail. Experience live jazz 7-10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. 219 E. Houston St., #275, (210) 472-2202, bohanans.com.
Sanford Nowlin
6. Bar at Bohanan's
The Bar at Bohanan's is a frequent backup plan for people who don't have a reservation for the upstairs Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood. No, it's not quite the same as a full steakhouse experience, but access to excellent small bites and some of the steakhouse menu will leave most folks plenty satisfied. Beyond that, the bar is a destination for thoughtfully conceived cocktails, a curated beer and wine selection and some of the city's best bar staff. The legacy of the late Sasha Petraske, a well-known bartender and original advisor to the bar, is carried on with attention to detail. Experience live jazz 7-10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. 219 E. Houston St., #275, (210) 472-2202, bohanans.com.
7. Bar Loretta 
Since opening more than two years ago, this spot serving elevated Texas-style cuisine has become a Southtown staple. Although Bar Loretta — the brainchild of San Antonio natives Roger Herr and Paul Petersen — is better known to some as a high-end dinner spot, it's also got a happening bar that attracts a crowd of its own thanks to its classic feel and bar program honcho Michael Neff's attention to craft. Check out one of the deftly created house cocktails or sample from an extensive whiskey list. The spot also serves bar bites, including steak frites, Caesar salads and grilled cheese sandos until 1 a.m., making it a great pitstop on a weekend bar crawl. 320 Beauregard St., (210) 757-3607, barloretta.com.
Chris Perez
7. Bar Loretta
Since opening more than two years ago, this spot serving elevated Texas-style cuisine has become a Southtown staple. Although Bar Loretta — the brainchild of San Antonio natives Roger Herr and Paul Petersen — is better known to some as a high-end dinner spot, it's also got a happening bar that attracts a crowd of its own thanks to its classic feel and bar program honcho Michael Neff's attention to craft. Check out one of the deftly created house cocktails or sample from an extensive whiskey list. The spot also serves bar bites, including steak frites, Caesar salads and grilled cheese sandos until 1 a.m., making it a great pitstop on a weekend bar crawl. 320 Beauregard St., (210) 757-3607, barloretta.com.
8. Bar Ludivine 
It didn't take long for this relative newcomer to the Southtown scene to find its stride. Decorated with eclectic furniture and funky light fixtures, Bar Ludivine feels chic yet homey, just like the neighborhood it serves. And that's intentional, according to owner Mike Abad, who told the Express-News he was aiming to make the space feel like the interior of one of the historic mansions in the nearby King William Historic District. Indeed, Bar Ludivine feels like a much hipper version of Cheers with its neighborhood clientele and welcoming vibe. Take a pick from five specialty cocktails that rotate seasonally and stop by for karaoke on Mondays and Fridays if you want to show off your golden throat. 1014 S. Presa St., (210) 908-9209, facebook.com/barludivine.
Michael Karlis
8. Bar Ludivine
It didn't take long for this relative newcomer to the Southtown scene to find its stride. Decorated with eclectic furniture and funky light fixtures, Bar Ludivine feels chic yet homey, just like the neighborhood it serves. And that's intentional, according to owner Mike Abad, who told the Express-News he was aiming to make the space feel like the interior of one of the historic mansions in the nearby King William Historic District. Indeed, Bar Ludivine feels like a much hipper version of Cheers with its neighborhood clientele and welcoming vibe. Take a pick from five specialty cocktails that rotate seasonally and stop by for karaoke on Mondays and Fridays if you want to show off your golden throat. 1014 S. Presa St., (210) 908-9209, facebook.com/barludivine.
9. Bar Mon Ami 
Alamo Heights-area drinkery Bar Mon Ami has stood the test of time by positioning itself as a spot that takes its cocktails seriously — and not much else. From its marble bar top to a larger-than-life red neon sign that breaks down the recipe for a classic Negroni, this place exudes the kind of vibes you hope for on a first date: sexy, fun and quirky enough to warrant a second encounter. Try classic cocktails such as the Aviation or Vieux Carré or something more modern from Mon Ami's menu of signature tipples and you may find yourself among the faithful supporters of this hidden gem. 4901 Broadway, (210) 701-0577, barmonami.com.
Nina Rangel
9. Bar Mon Ami
Alamo Heights-area drinkery Bar Mon Ami has stood the test of time by positioning itself as a spot that takes its cocktails seriously — and not much else. From its marble bar top to a larger-than-life red neon sign that breaks down the recipe for a classic Negroni, this place exudes the kind of vibes you hope for on a first date: sexy, fun and quirky enough to warrant a second encounter. Try classic cocktails such as the Aviation or Vieux Carré or something more modern from Mon Ami's menu of signature tipples and you may find yourself among the faithful supporters of this hidden gem. 4901 Broadway, (210) 701-0577, barmonami.com.
10. Beethoven Maennerchor
If German beer is your thing, the Beethoven is the place to go for some of the world's greatest lagers. But, in recent years, the King William mainstay bar and biergarten has stepped outside the bounds of its 155 years of tradition and offers a few taps of Texas craft beers and plenty of choices in bottles and cans. If it's been a few years since the last visit, recent changes include offering German food nightly instead of just during special events. The German singing society that founded the place is still going strong as is the Beethoven's big band. The best beer prices are Tuesday and Wednesday when the singers and brass players hold weekly rehearsals. 422 Pereida St., (210) 222-1521, southtownbeethoven.com.
Courtesy Photo / Beethoven Maennerchor
10. Beethoven Maennerchor
If German beer is your thing, the Beethoven is the place to go for some of the world's greatest lagers. But, in recent years, the King William mainstay bar and biergarten has stepped outside the bounds of its 155 years of tradition and offers a few taps of Texas craft beers and plenty of choices in bottles and cans. If it's been a few years since the last visit, recent changes include offering German food nightly instead of just during special events. The German singing society that founded the place is still going strong as is the Beethoven's big band. The best beer prices are Tuesday and Wednesday when the singers and brass players hold weekly rehearsals. 422 Pereida St., (210) 222-1521, southtownbeethoven.com.
11. Bond's 007 Rock Bar
This long-running downtown bar harkens back to the era when San Antonio was called the Heavy Metal Capital of the World. The walls are adorned with hard rock memorabilia, and the bar top is decorated with the logos of nearly any '80s metal act you can think of. The upstairs music venue offers live bands on the weekends, including occasional touring shows, and boasts an appropriately powerful sound system. Music fans can usually pay at the door but are encouraged to buy tickets ahead of time for higher-profile acts. The downstairs bar is open daily until 2 a.m. and offers inexpensive drinks and an array of beer options. 450 Soledad St., (210) 255-0007, bondsrockbar.com.
Michael Karlis
11. Bond's 007 Rock Bar
This long-running downtown bar harkens back to the era when San Antonio was called the Heavy Metal Capital of the World. The walls are adorned with hard rock memorabilia, and the bar top is decorated with the logos of nearly any '80s metal act you can think of. The upstairs music venue offers live bands on the weekends, including occasional touring shows, and boasts an appropriately powerful sound system. Music fans can usually pay at the door but are encouraged to buy tickets ahead of time for higher-profile acts. The downstairs bar is open daily until 2 a.m. and offers inexpensive drinks and an array of beer options. 450 Soledad St., (210) 255-0007, bondsrockbar.com.
12. The Bonham Exchange
With a nod to Nirvana's 1992 classic, the Bonham Exchange has adopted "Come As You Are" as an unexpected social-media catchphrase. Rather than a request to show up in grungy flannels, the message is an invitation for all walks to let loose in one of the Alamo City's most storied pleasure palaces. Opened in 1981 in the shell of a 19th-century German athletic club, the Bonham helped pen the script for gay nightlife in San Antonio — first hosting concerts by new wave icons then quickly winning over a devoted following that's become increasingly mixed over the decades. Encompassing multiple dance floors, an expansive back patio and an upstairs ballroom that hosts world-class drag shows, the local landmark continues to stir up a wild melting pot fueled by wallet-friendly cocktails and party anthems that span the eras. 411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com.
Julián P. Ledezma
12. The Bonham Exchange
With a nod to Nirvana's 1992 classic, the Bonham Exchange has adopted "Come As You Are" as an unexpected social-media catchphrase. Rather than a request to show up in grungy flannels, the message is an invitation for all walks to let loose in one of the Alamo City's most storied pleasure palaces. Opened in 1981 in the shell of a 19th-century German athletic club, the Bonham helped pen the script for gay nightlife in San Antonio — first hosting concerts by new wave icons then quickly winning over a devoted following that's become increasingly mixed over the decades. Encompassing multiple dance floors, an expansive back patio and an upstairs ballroom that hosts world-class drag shows, the local landmark continues to stir up a wild melting pot fueled by wallet-friendly cocktails and party anthems that span the eras. 411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com.
13. Bruno's Dive Bar 
True to its name, Bruno's is among the few remaining dives in the rapidly gentrifying Southtown neighborhood. The dimly lit drinking spot is named after Bruno Dzanski, who operated the B&D Ice House, a neighborhood watering hole that occupied the building from 1961 to 2014. With its affordable tap beer, collection of shabby memorabilia and no-frills take on fun, Bruno's embodies everything that a good dive bar should be — and that's just the way locals like it. 1004 S. Alamo St., (210) 225-9801, brunosdive.com.
Michael Karlis
13. Bruno's Dive Bar
True to its name, Bruno's is among the few remaining dives in the rapidly gentrifying Southtown neighborhood. The dimly lit drinking spot is named after Bruno Dzanski, who operated the B&D Ice House, a neighborhood watering hole that occupied the building from 1961 to 2014. With its affordable tap beer, collection of shabby memorabilia and no-frills take on fun, Bruno's embodies everything that a good dive bar should be — and that's just the way locals like it. 1004 S. Alamo St., (210) 225-9801, brunosdive.com.
14. Casa Hernan
The latest culinary installment from local chef Johnny Hernandez, Casa Hernán offers an extensive selection of agave spirits, hand-crafted cocktails and botanas inside a vibrant Southtown location. Previously used as a specialized space for weddings and private dinners, the venue opened as Casa Hernán Cantina earlier this year, boasting the chef's collection of Mexican art, blown-glass light fixtures and bold color schemes. The spot recently launched Sunday brunch, replete with mimosa flights along with hearty eats such as menudo and tamales Texanos with chile con carne, crema and queso fresco. 411. E. Cevallos, (210) 827-2235, casahernan.com.
Nina Rangel
14. Casa Hernan
The latest culinary installment from local chef Johnny Hernandez, Casa Hernán offers an extensive selection of agave spirits, hand-crafted cocktails and botanas inside a vibrant Southtown location. Previously used as a specialized space for weddings and private dinners, the venue opened as Casa Hernán Cantina earlier this year, boasting the chef's collection of Mexican art, blown-glass light fixtures and bold color schemes. The spot recently launched Sunday brunch, replete with mimosa flights along with hearty eats such as menudo and tamales Texanos with chile con carne, crema and queso fresco. 411. E. Cevallos, (210) 827-2235, casahernan.com.
15. Cellar Mixology 
Behind a secret door in the basement of St. Paul Square Spanish restaurant Toro Kitchen and Bar, you'll find the aptly named Cellar Mixology. The speakeasy-style nightclub is happening on the weekends and has a limited capacity, so it's a good idea to arrive early. Beyond the clandestine vibes, guests are drawn by the exacting bar professionals who are aces at shaking up the Cellar's specialty cocktails. Watch them play with liquid nitrogen and engage in the latest molecular mixology as they craft liquid works of art. And don't expect to select your tipple from a tiny cardstock menu either. The Cellar's list of selections is more like a book in which each cocktail tells its own story. The most popular drink in the tome is the El Diablito, a cocktail honoring lust. 1142 E. Commerce St., (210) 463-5386, cellarmixology.com.
Michael Karlis
15. Cellar Mixology
Behind a secret door in the basement of St. Paul Square Spanish restaurant Toro Kitchen and Bar, you'll find the aptly named Cellar Mixology. The speakeasy-style nightclub is happening on the weekends and has a limited capacity, so it's a good idea to arrive early. Beyond the clandestine vibes, guests are drawn by the exacting bar professionals who are aces at shaking up the Cellar's specialty cocktails. Watch them play with liquid nitrogen and engage in the latest molecular mixology as they craft liquid works of art. And don't expect to select your tipple from a tiny cardstock menu either. The Cellar's list of selections is more like a book in which each cocktail tells its own story. The most popular drink in the tome is the El Diablito, a cocktail honoring lust. 1142 E. Commerce St., (210) 463-5386, cellarmixology.com.
16. Cobalt Club 
Cobalt Club's affordable drinks, affable staff and unconventional hours — drinks start flowing at 7 a.m. daily — have helped solidify its place as one of the city's most beloved north-of-downtown watering holes. Pull up for casual, low-key, LGBTQ-friendly vibes in a windowless spot anchored by a wraparound bar. You'll be getting your drink on with shift workers, staff from nearby hospitals and others looking to get a buzz on in the midday hours. Like any other dimly lit neighborhood joint, you'll encounter die-hard regulars at just about every hour, but don't fret — they'll treat you like one of their own. 2022 McCullough Ave., (210) 251-2027, facebook.com/thecobaltclub.
Sanford Nowlin
16. Cobalt Club
Cobalt Club's affordable drinks, affable staff and unconventional hours — drinks start flowing at 7 a.m. daily — have helped solidify its place as one of the city's most beloved north-of-downtown watering holes. Pull up for casual, low-key, LGBTQ-friendly vibes in a windowless spot anchored by a wraparound bar. You'll be getting your drink on with shift workers, staff from nearby hospitals and others looking to get a buzz on in the midday hours. Like any other dimly lit neighborhood joint, you'll encounter die-hard regulars at just about every hour, but don't fret — they'll treat you like one of their own. 2022 McCullough Ave., (210) 251-2027, facebook.com/thecobaltclub.
18. The Dakota East Side Ice House
Opening a contemporary ice house in a quickly gentrifying historic neighborhood might sound like a slippery slope, but owner Kent Oliver did just that with the Dakota. The gamble paid off in a big way. Situated in a former convenience store in the shadow of the Alamodome, the East Side haunt is just five years young but conjures old spirits with vintage photos sourced from the surrounding 'hood. That level of thoughtfulness is reflected in the Dakota's eclectic programming — which includes both bellydancing and drag shows — and an oft-Instagrammed welcome sign that reminds guests to "Just Be Nice, Dammit!" Balancing out the Dakota's selection of beer, wine and frozen libations is a solid menu of bar fare — including a Texas Monthly-approved pork queso — that can be enjoyed in the funkily appointed interior or at picnic tables on the spacious patio. 433 S. Hackberry St., (210) 375-6009, thedakotasa.com.
Nina Rangel
18. The Dakota East Side Ice House
Opening a contemporary ice house in a quickly gentrifying historic neighborhood might sound like a slippery slope, but owner Kent Oliver did just that with the Dakota. The gamble paid off in a big way. Situated in a former convenience store in the shadow of the Alamodome, the East Side haunt is just five years young but conjures old spirits with vintage photos sourced from the surrounding 'hood. That level of thoughtfulness is reflected in the Dakota's eclectic programming — which includes both bellydancing and drag shows — and an oft-Instagrammed welcome sign that reminds guests to "Just Be Nice, Dammit!" Balancing out the Dakota's selection of beer, wine and frozen libations is a solid menu of bar fare — including a Texas Monthly-approved pork queso — that can be enjoyed in the funkily appointed interior or at picnic tables on the spacious patio. 433 S. Hackberry St., (210) 375-6009, thedakotasa.com.
19. Double Standard 
The group behind San Antonio foodie havens Hot Joy, Barbaro and Little Death began serving oysters, steaks and high-caliber cocktails from this timeless-feeling space in 2022, but it's always so packed, you'd think it just opened. Named for its bar philosophy — "where doubles are standard," get it? — this tavern occupies the 3,000-square-foot space that formerly housed Rosella Coffee's downtown location. Speedy staff behind the well-stocked bar offer craft cocktails, $6 well drinks and shot-and-a-beer combos. For a happening downtown happy hour, this is the spot to be. 114 E. Houston St., (210) 977-0005, doublestandardsatx.com.
Nina Rangel
19. Double Standard
The group behind San Antonio foodie havens Hot Joy, Barbaro and Little Death began serving oysters, steaks and high-caliber cocktails from this timeless-feeling space in 2022, but it's always so packed, you'd think it just opened. Named for its bar philosophy — "where doubles are standard," get it? — this tavern occupies the 3,000-square-foot space that formerly housed Rosella Coffee's downtown location. Speedy staff behind the well-stocked bar offer craft cocktails, $6 well drinks and shot-and-a-beer combos. For a happening downtown happy hour, this is the spot to be. 114 E. Houston St., (210) 977-0005, doublestandardsatx.com.
20. Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen has become a favorite outdoor hangout spot thanks to its relaxing vibes, San Antonio River views, cut-above grub and wide array of taps dedicated to Texas beers. Offerings from the bar, which is constructed of decommissioned shipping containers, also include ciders, margaritas and the specialty adult Elsewhere Punch. Expect standard bar fare such as burgers and chicken sandwiches with sides like waffle fries, but don't overlook less conventional options like the parmesan brussels sprouts or gochujang cauliflower wings. Like many bars, Elsewhere has a live DJ on Friday night, but how many can say they sometimes boast aerial acrobats and fire dancers as part of the entertainment? 103 E. Jones Ave., (210) 201-5595, elsewheretexas.com.
Nina Rangel
20. Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen has become a favorite outdoor hangout spot thanks to its relaxing vibes, San Antonio River views, cut-above grub and wide array of taps dedicated to Texas beers. Offerings from the bar, which is constructed of decommissioned shipping containers, also include ciders, margaritas and the specialty adult Elsewhere Punch. Expect standard bar fare such as burgers and chicken sandwiches with sides like waffle fries, but don't overlook less conventional options like the parmesan brussels sprouts or gochujang cauliflower wings. Like many bars, Elsewhere has a live DJ on Friday night, but how many can say they sometimes boast aerial acrobats and fire dancers as part of the entertainment? 103 E. Jones Ave., (210) 201-5595, elsewheretexas.com.
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