4 Best Bars in San Antonio, Texas

Originally opened in 1933 following the end of Prohibition, the Esquire Tavern has a storied past as the oldest riverfront bar on the River Walk. The legendary locale even claims to be the longest bar in Texas, at 100 feet. The sleek, dark 1930s interior blends well with an elevated pub-style menu. The evolving seasonal classic cocktail menu is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The intimate Downstairs area is directly on the River Walk and is open Friday and Saturday from 7 pm to 2 am.

Choose from the extensive selection of tequilas and margaritas here as well as nearly 20 tequila flights for the indecisive. They also have domestic, imported, and Texas craft beers.

At this historic bar within the Menger Hotel (one of the city's great cultural treasures), listen to tales of how Teddy Roosevelt recruited his army of Rough Riders here. The bar was built in 1887 as a replica of London's House of Lords pub. It's a fun place to go with friends for a drink or to meet the locals. A small but hearty pub menu is served all day.

One of the most elegant spaces at the Pearl—no surprise since it's inside Hotel Emma—the bar is named for the Sternewirth Privilege, the 19th-century tradition of giving brewery employees free beer during the workday. The cool, dark, swanky space has a 25-foot vaulted ceiling over a collection elegant furnishings, a fireplace, and a beautiful bar serving signature cocktails, beer, and wine, along with satisfying bar bites.