Downtown San Antonio boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, from historic watering holes to trendy rooftop lounges. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, the heart of Alamo City has a bar for every taste. Stroll along the famous River Walk or explore hidden speakeasies tucked in historic buildings – you’ll find no shortage of lively spots to grab a drink and soak in the local flavor. Below, we highlight our favorite downtown bars (and the drinks to try at each) that showcase the best of San Antonio’s drinking scene.
Related: Apartment Spotlight – Lyric at the Merc
Where to Go for Drinks in Downtown San Antonio
The Esquire Tavern
Address: 155 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Opened in 1933, just after Prohibition, The Esquire Tavern is the oldest bar on the River Walk and a downtown landmark (sacurrent.com). Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time – the long wooden bar (at 100 feet, the longest in Texas) and dim, vintage décor ooze historic charm. Despite its history, Esquire keeps earning kudos today with a nationally recognized craft cocktail program (even snagging a James Beard Award nomination). The atmosphere is a congenial mix of locals and visitors, all savoring expertly mixed drinks and elevated pub fare in a nostalgic setting. Downstairs, you’ll even find a cozy speakeasy-style bar for a quieter escape.
Our Favorite Drink to Order:
You can’t go wrong with their signature Old Fashioned, a perfectly balanced classic that’s become an Esquire staple (sariverwalk.com). If you’re feeling adventurous, ask about seasonal cocktails – the bartenders here are known for creative twists on vintage recipes.
Bar 1919
Address: 1420 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78204
Tucked away in the basement of the Blue Star Arts Complex just south of downtown, Bar 1919 is a true speakeasy experience. This well-hidden gem emerged during San Antonio’s craft cocktail renaissance and has stayed at the forefront of the scene (sacurrent.com). Slip past the unmarked door and descend into a dimly lit lounge staffed by vested mixologists who can concoct just about anything. Bar 1919 is especially famed for its extensive whiskey collection – bourbon and Scotch lovers will be in heaven browsing the shelves here. Cocktails are handcrafted with house-made ingredients and careful precision. In fact, one insider favorite is a house infusion of sweet potato–infused Irish whiskey dropped into a Left Hand Milk Stout, a creative twist that exemplifies their inventive approach (sacurrent.com). Despite its retro vibes, the crowd is a mix of in-the-know locals and curious newcomers, keeping the ambiance lively rather than stuffy.
Our Favorite Drink to Order:
The Manhattan – Bar 1919’s take on this classic is outstanding, made with your choice of top-shelf whiskey and homemade bitters. For something unique, ask about their latest infusions or try the off-menu sweet potato Irish whiskey stout bomb mentioned above for a surprisingly delicious treat (sacurrent.com).
Paramour Rooftop Bar
Address: 102 9th St, 4th Floor, San Antonio, TX 78215
For skyline views and upscale vibes, head to Paramour, San Antonio’s premier rooftop bar. Perched atop the Phipps building just north of the River Walk, Paramour treats you to panoramic views of downtown from its chic indoor-outdoor lounge (sariverwalk.com). The décor is swanky and eclectic – think plush seating, art installations, and mood lighting that create a high-energy yet sophisticated ambiance. Equally impressive is the drink menu: Paramour’s bartenders craft creative signature cocktails with top-shelf spirits and local ingredients, in addition to a well-curated wine and beer list. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or kicking off a Saturday night, this rooftop retreat is ideal for toasting with friends or enjoying a romantic date above the city lights (sariverwalk.com). They often host themed parties, DJ nights, and even a weekend drag brunch, so there’s always something happening up here.
Our Favorite Drink to Order:
The Smoke Show, a smoky mezcal-based cocktail (one of Paramour’s standouts), perfectly matches the sultry atmosphere. If you prefer something sweeter, try their Paramour Punch – a fruity rum cocktail that’s dangerously easy to sip as you take in the view. Of course, you can always ask the bartender for the latest seasonal creation; they love crafting off-menu surprises.
Hugman’s Oasis
Address: 135 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Escape to the tropics without leaving downtown at Hugman’s Oasis, a tiki bar hideaway right along the River Walk. Opened by local restaurateurs in recent years, this bar pays homage to the 1950s heyday of tiki culture with its immersive, island-themed decor (wanderlog.com). Walk past tiki totems, carved masks, and even a lava-rock fountain as exotica music sets a fun, laid-back mood. The drink program is all about classic tiki flair: expect expertly crafted Mai Tais, Zombies, and frozen concoctions served in whimsical mugs, often with garnishes on fire or an extra umbrella for good measure. The bartenders here are passionate about their craft and happy to personalize recommendations or even improvise a drink based on your tastes (wanderlog.com). In addition to cocktails, Hugman’s recently rolled out a small menu of tropical-inspired bites (like Spam musubi and coconut watermelon bowls) to keep your late-night cravings at bay. With its escapist vibe and top-notch drinks, this oasis has quickly become a favorite for locals and tourists seeking a unique night out.
Our Favorite Drink to Order:
The Mai Tai – a quintessential tiki classic – is phenomenal here, balanced just right with rum, citrus, and orgeat. If you’re looking for something different, try the Holy Goof, one of their house specials with a ginger twist that regulars rave about (wanderlog.com). It’s served in playful tiki glassware and packs a flavorful punch that will have you saying “aloha” to your worries.
The Moon’s Daughters
Address: 115 Lexington Ave, 20th Floor, San Antonio, TX 78205
High atop the Thompson Hotel, The Moon’s Daughters is an enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge that dazzles from the 20th floor of the Arts Residences building (romanticspotssanantonio.com). This stylish bar combines a Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere with breathtaking panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline. From the open-air terrace, you can sip craft cocktails under the stars while gazing at the glittering cityscape – it’s a view that truly wows and makes for an unforgettable night. The Moon’s Daughters features chic modern decor, live music on select evenings, and a menu of Mediterranean small plates (think hummus, lamb sliders, and charcuterie) to accompany the extensive drink list. Cocktails here are as creative as they are visually stunning – the mixologists infuse Middle Eastern and Spanish flavors into many of their drinks, utilizing ingredients like fig, citrus, and exotic herbs. The overall experience is upscale yet approachable, appealing to hotel guests, locals on a classy night out, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
Our Favorite Drink to Order:
Try the Selene Spritz, a refreshing signature cocktail made with gin, elderflower, lavender, and prosecco – it’s light, floral, and perfect for sipping in the moonlight. Another standout is the Midnight in Malta, a whisky-based cocktail with dates and spices that pays homage to the lounge’s Mediterranean flair. Pair your drink with one of their savory tapas, and you’ve got a recipe for a blissful evening above the city.
Live Near the Best Bars in Downtown San Antonio
Downtown San Antonio’s bar scene isn’t just great for a night out – it’s a fantastic amenity if you live nearby. Imagine being able to walk from your apartment to meet friends for happy hour on the River Walk, or enjoying a nightcap at a rooftop lounge just steps from home. If that lifestyle appeals to you, let AptAmigo help make it a reality. We’re experts at finding apartments in San Antonio’s most desirable neighborhoods (including downtown), and our service is completely free for renters. AptAmigo will pair you with a local apartment locator who knows the city inside and out – so you can find the perfect home near your favorite bars and restaurants, without any hassle. Contact us today, and we’ll do all the work to find you a dream apartment in the heart of San Antonio. Then all you have to do is get ready to enjoy those downtown nights to the fullest!
Read Next: The Inside Scoop on Living in San Antonio
