Nestled along the Mission Reach section of the River Walk, the Southtown Arts District is a blend of art, culture, and community. Southtown originated as a part of a neighborhood revitalization project in the early 1990s and over time grew to encompass 5 neighborhoods: King William, Collins Garden, Lavaca, Lone Star, and Roosevelt.
From delicious eats to art galore, we’re sharing the ultimate guide for exploring the Southtown Arts District:
EAT
Breakfast:
Guenther House — Housed in a historic home in the King William area, this spot serves American classics to San Antonio with delicious daily breakfast, lunch, and bakery offerings.
Lunch:
Pharm Table — Apothecary Kitchen featuring locally sourced, globally-inspired food with a spice library, inventive cocktails, and natural wines.
Burgerteca — Located near Bluestar, this burger joint combines American and Mexican flavors through its dishes.
The Good Kind — The perfect spot to have lunch in a garden! Here, you’ll find classic staples such as burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. Make sure to try one of its signature margaritas.
Little Em’s Oyster Bar — The quaint historic building has quickly become the Southtown staple for oysters on a half shell, lobster rolls, and our signature burger,
Dinner:
The Fruteria – Botanero — By night, The Frutería transforms into a Botanero offering Mexican tapas, or small plates, including guacamoles, stuffed peppers, bite-size tostadas, and chilapitas.
Up Scale — The curated menu boasts the finest steak cuts and prime seafood options such as dover sole, lobster, and Branzino. In addition to our varied wine and beer menu, we also offer a line-up of seasonal and signature cocktails made with the freshest ingredients.
Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar — If you’re looking for classic Tex-Mex cuisines, Rosario’s is your go-to spot. Make sure to check out its second-floor rooftop with views of the city!
DRINK
Coffee
Poetic Coffee and Wine Bar — This local coffee shop doubles as a wine bar and hosts many markets, poetry events, and other pop-up festivities.
Stranded Coffee — Located in Southtown, near the Mission Reach portion of the River Walk, this coffee truck serves a delicious menu of classic Java, seasonal items, and local breakfast eats, depending on the day.
Gold Coffee — Another neighborhood cafe, this spot serves delicious specialty coffee and baked goods. They also have a breakfast menu that is a must-try!
Cocktails
Hands Down Bar — The perfect spot for classic cocktails and wine. They also have culinary pop-ups often. Make sure to follow them on Instagram for more information on monthly events.
Gimmie Gimmie — This spot offers a rock ‘n’ roll experience with craft cocktails, a robust beer & wine list, and chef-driven food in the space formerly occupied by Francis Bogside.
Bar 1919 — Known for its craftsmanship, American history, and whiskey charm, 1919 transports you to the Prohibition era. Tucked away in San Antonio’s Blue Star Complex, much like speakeasies of the past, 1919 remains hidden until you discover its intriguing secrets.
Breweries
Kuenstler Brewing — Kuenstler Brewing is San Antonio’s first artisanal craft brewpub, re-inventing old beer styles into flavorful and innovative works of craft beer artistry.
Dos Sirenos Brewing — One of the newish breweries in town, Dos Sirenos is located right across the street from Blue Star Arts Complex and has indoor and outdoor dining options. It’s also pet-friendly!
Freetail Brewing Co. — Freetail has some of the best happy hour specials, beer tastings, live music, trivia, and so much more. They brew unique ales, lagers, sours, and stouts.
SHOP
The Waggery — This neighborhood destination is your ultimate source for everything related to pets! Discover presents for your beloved furry companions and delicious baked goodies.
Bohemian Gemme —For fashion enthusiasts, this neighborhood boutique is renowned for its vibrant prints, bold colors, and a wide selection of accessories.
La Segunda Bartique and Gallery — An eclectic vintage and antique resale shop that combines with a bar, features live music, and hosts regular pop-up markets.
ART
Bluestar Arts Complex — Home to San Antonio’s longest-running contemporary art space, the complex also features various art venues, shops, and eateries.
Sala Diaz — Located in the heart of the Cultural Arts District, Sala Diaz provides a venue for the exhibition of new and challenging work and fosters lasting exchange between our city and creative communities abroad
Garcia Art Glass — Visitors come from around the world to see their exciting glass-blowing demonstrations and shop the colorful gallery.
EVENTS
In the heart of Southtown, you’ll find two must-experience art walks: First Friday and Second Saturday. These events are your golden ticket to exploring the local art scene, shopping for unique finds crafted by talented artisans, and savoring delicious bites from the neighborhood’s eateries.