2 Best Restaurants in Downtown and the River Walk, San Antonio

Located in the thick of things right on the San Antonio River, this upscale national seafood chain is a pleasurable oasis from the area's hustle-and-bustle. A variety of fresh fish prepared in a number of ways include Chilean sea bass and almond-crusted mahimahi; top steak cuts appease those who prefer turf to surf. Or you can have both with Reef & Beef, a lobster tail with ribeye. The atmosphere is classy yet relaxed. There's a large wine list, a capable bar, and a prompt and knowledgeable waitstaff.

Its name means oyster in Spanish, and you will find them plenty fresh here, chilled on the half shell and served with mignonette or chipotle cocktail sauce. The oyster bar also serves up crabs, shrimp, and ceviche. Other premium offerings are blackened redfish, grilled ahi tuna, and filet and lobster tail. The nonseafood menu is limited, so ask the server for suggestions. It's open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner at a lovely spot on the River Walk, housed in the luxury Mokara Hotel & Spa;  Dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.