San Antonio Restaurant Tips by VeronicaG Top 5 Page for this destination

Michelino's: Another River Walk Restaurant

Michelino's location is excellent--it's along the River Walk; has indoor and outdoor weather-protected dining and is conveniently situated. However, the evening we chose to dine there was a little disappointing.

Before I mention anymore, though, I have to say our waiter was pleasant and the atmosphere warm and congenial. Through the window, lights glimmered in the rain. Inside, red poinsettias brightened the room, while a mariachi band strolled from table to table asking for requests. (See picture #2, please)

We began our meal with a delicious appetizer: seafood and ricotta stuffed mushrooms ($7.99) After a moment of indecision, I ordered the grilled pork tenderloin with green beans and carrots and garlic potatoes ($17.99).

Unfortunately, both of our entrees came to the table lukewarm. When we mentioned the problem, our waiter whisked our plates away and brought them back in no time at all, but by then my pork was...what's the word...chewy.

My experience was probably an isolated one, so I would give this restaurant a chance to serve up a nicely cooked, hot meal.

Address: 521 River Walk, San Antonio, Tx

Comparison: about average

Phone: 210-223-2939

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 3

Theme: Italian

CHAPS: We Ate Breakfast Here...

CHAPS is located at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on the lobby level. Our day began here each day with a hearty breakfast. I became addicted to the waffles which are made in the shape of Texas--and to prove it I included it with this tip!

Your meal can be ordered from the menu or you can partake of the breakfast buffet. Pastry assortments, eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, bagels, pancakes, omelets and other items are offered with the buffet. Although the fruit wasn't all that ripe, we thought the food was hearty fare and the staff friendly.

Directions: Located at The Hyatt Regency Hotel

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 4

Theme: American

Texas Land and Cattle: A Unique Steakhouse

It was early evening, we had been sightseeing all day and we were famished. As we pushed ourselves along the River Walk we asked a guide to recommend a good restaurant. He gave us directions to Texas Land and Cattle Steakhouse. We were so glad to have bumped into him!

The steakhouse was located along the River Walk, but was a little further away from the crowds. Because of this we had no waiting in line, but were conducted directly to our table. The dining room left no doubt in our minds that we were in Texas...I think it was the steer horns that convinced us!

I ordered Grilled Chicken with Shrimp ($14.99)with a baked potato and house salad acompanying the entree. It was tender and tasty! A Geyser Peak Pinot Grigio suggested by the bartender was good, too. Our experience at Texas Land and Cattle was wonderful and we would recommend it to anyone.

Favorite Dish: The Grilled Chicken With Shrimp was full of flavor and cooked perfectly

Address: 201 North St. Mary's,San Antonio,Tx

Comparison: about average

Directions: Along the River Walk at The Drury Inn and Suites

Phone: 210-222-2263

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Steakhouse

Website: http://www.TXLC.COM

Paesano's: Italian...At Its Best

Paesano's was located along the River Walk not far from the Hyatt Regency. As most restaurants, it was packed with a waiting list. Although we were expecting a long wait, we were surprised when a table opened up not long after we arrived.

The restaurant is decorated in contemporary style with black washed walls and colorful modern art (picture #2). The outdoor dining faced the River Walk, while a sleek bar/waiting area fronted the main indoor dining room. During our short wait, we enjoyed a glass of Pinot Grigio ($7.00).

Once we were seated, crusty bread was served with a small dish of olive oil mixed with parmesan cheese on the side. For an entree I ordered Ravioli with Bolognese Sauce ($11.95) which was superb! I would stop by Paesano's again anytime! They serve lunch and dinner daily; Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.

UPDATE: We were determined to bring our family to Paesano's over the NY's holiday and we succeeded on doing so the second night. All enjoyed their meal and I would recommend it to anyone!

Address: 11 W. Crockett Street, San Antonio,Tx

Comparison: about average

Directions: Along the River Walk

Phone: 210-227-2782

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Italian

Website: http://www.joesfood.com

The Rainforest Cafe: For a Taste Of The Amazon...

UPDATE: While visiting this New Year, the grandkids ALL loved the Rainforest Cafe. Check out the new pics (#2-#5)!

This is a great place to bring the kids! Not only does it feel like a visit to a tropical rain forest, but animated critters make your dining an interesting adventure.

Our first visit to a Rainforest Cafe was while we were living in New Jersey. It was packed with diners--this restaurant was no different. There was a long waiting list since this was on the weekend.

We decided to park ourselves on the outdoor terrace at a table beneath a wide umbrella. It was a very hot day and the shade was appreciated. There were only four tables, so you'd be fortunate to grab one! Our meal was served promptly by a friendly waiter.

The main dining area was on street level, with a gift shop below at the River Walk entrance. Items such as t-shirts, mugs, stuffed animals, toys, candy, videos and such were imprinted with the Rainforest logo and available for purchase.

Whether you're traveling with children or in twos, I think you'd like the Rainforest Cafe. Hours for the Cafe are Sun.-Thurs. 11 am-10 pm; gift shop 10 am-10pm. Fri.&Sat. the Cafe hours are 11 am-11 pm; gift shop 10 am-11 pm.

Address: 110 E. Crockett Street, San Antonio,Tx

Comparison: about average

Directions: It's along the River Walk

Phone: 210-277-6300

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: American

Website: http://www.RAINFORESTCAFE.COM