The 18 Best Cocktail Bars In San Antonio

By Kelsey Kennedy | August 29, 2023

When someone talks about good cocktail bars in San Antonio, my eyes kind of light up.

And no, it’s not just the booze, although the idea of an ice-cold gin martini at a cute cocktail bar will always light me up.

I love discussing great cocktail bars because I feel that there’s truly one in San Antonio for every occasion. The cocktail bar scene here is quite overwhelming! But there really is something for any mood.

For instance: looking for a good San Antonio cocktail bar for a romantic date night? You need a sophisticated place.

A holiday weekend afternoon hangout with friends? A casual cocktail spot with an outdoor bar.

Spending a tourist weekend in San Antonio? There are actually some good cocktail bars on the Riverwalk.

I’m so happy to share this guide to the best cocktail bars in San Antonio with you. And if location is the main concern, please use the map below to find one near you!

The 18 Best Cocktail Bars In San Antonio

1. Sternewirth at Hotel Emma

If you’re talking about the best cocktail bars in San Antonio, this one is going to pop up pretty quickly. Someone will mention it…and that’s because it truly is one of the most beautiful bars in San Antonio AND one of the best places to get a craft cocktail.

Located in the center of San Antonio's Pearl District, Sternewirth at Hotel Emma is a vintage and wooden bar housed in a historic cellar that gives a one-of-a-kind experience for guests. This pub is named after the Sternewirth Privilege, which allowed employees of 19th-century breweries to drink free beer during the workday.

For its interior, you’ll see a modern and vintage design combination with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and soft leather seats that create a pleasant and cozy atmosphere. The bar is also furnished with old furniture and a few exquisite vintage photographs.

Enjoy their classic and contemporary cocktails cocktail menu, including The Three Emmas with pearl beer & rose cordial, amontillado sherry, botanist gin, grapefruit and lemon, and La Babia Margarita, a mix of blanco tequila and orange liqueur with lime. The average prices for these cocktails are around $12-$17, a reasonable price given their high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. They also serve some bar bites and snacks that go well with their cocktails.

WEBSITE | 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

2. The Bar at Mixtli

You might not see this one on many lists and round-ups, and that's because the unique restaurant Mixtli typically gets all the attention. But did you know it also has a walk-in cocktail bar adjacent to the restaurant?

The Bar at Mixtli in San Antonio is a fancy cocktail bar that offers its guests a PINK ambiance. The bar's interior is beautifully decorated with warm lighting and a few inviting bar seats + tabletops. The walls are filled with lovely paintings and artwork that add to the unique charm of the place.

The name Mixtli, which comes from the Aztec word meaning “cloud”, reflects the bar's commitment to offering its customers an unique experience. Just like clouds, their menus travel from one place to another, bringing good food to each region.

The bar offers some indoor seating options for its guests, making it a perfect place for a date night or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, there are no reservations needed, which is a major perk if you’re more of a spur-of-the-moment bar hopper!

For their cocktail menu, you can explore a variety of cocktails ranging from $12-$15. One of the must-try cocktails on their menu is the Mixtli Old Fashioned with Chocolate, Mixe Chile, Cimarron Reposado, and Mal Bien Espadin. And If you prefer seasonal cocktails you can’t go wrong with Sinaloa, a mix of Agave, Nopales, Cinnamon, Vermouth, Burnt Tostada Nixta and Arette Blanco. They also serve food on their menu, which features a variety of delicious small plates and snacks that blend perfectly with their cocktails.

WEBSITE | 611 S Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78210

3. Otro Bar

Otro Bar is a stylish rooftop cocktail bar located on the San Antonio Riverwalk, known for its views and vibrant decor. The bar has comfortable indoor/outdoor seating options with a chic and modern interior featuring bright colors. But what I love most is the terrace part of the bar overlooking the San Antonio Riverwalk. This is 100% one of the best riverwalk cocktail bars with a view!

Another thing to love about this bar is its contemporary cocktail menu with unique and innovative flavors. Their signature drinks are in the $14-$16 range.

Some must-try cocktails on their menu include Caramel & Toasted Walnut made with Brush Creek Bourbon, Pumpkin Spice, Maple, and Bitters, and a fall favorite is Pumpkin & Brown Sugar mixed with Makers Mark, Brown Sugar Bourbon, Apple Butter, Pumpkin, and Egg White. Small bites and snacks are also available on their menu.

Otro Bar is a fantastic riverwalk bar where you can hang out with friends or have a romantic date night with your significant other. And nope, you don't need a reservation to dine here!

WEBSITE | 123 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78205

4. Bar Loretta

Bar Loretta is a darling full-service restaurant and cocktail bar located in a 100-year-old building in the King William neighborhood. It’s on our guide to the best restaurants in San Antonio and it walks that delicate line between a restaurant and a bar.

Before it was renovated into Bar Loretta, it was once a historic building with two separate structures. The interior design of the bar is inspired by the old buildings with exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and rustic vibes. Perfect for a date night or gathering with girlfriends.

Guests can comfortably seat in their indoor and outdoor dining areas with a full bar and greatest music hits of Steve Earlie and Townes Van Zandt.

One of the best features of Bar Loretta is its extensive selection of drinks. It’s pretty vast! Texas Whiskey cocktails, classic cocktails, house originals, local beers, and wine. They offer a variety of cocktails that are expertly crafted with incredibly fresh ingredients and creative flavors.

I love how they describe the cocktails on their menu. For instance: Roger’s Birthday Manhattan (served extra-special with Pecan-Smoked Bourbon & Antica Carpano Sweet Vermouth, House-made Cherries, and lots of smoke) or the Mint Julep (made with Ranger Creek .36 Bourbon, Mint, Sugar, and History (!!), served in a julep cup.)

The average prices for cocktails at Bar Loretta range from $10-$20, depending on how fancy you want to get. And of course, they also offer an incredible food menu that includes small or large plates and bar bites that complement their cocktail offerings.

Reservations are not required at Bar Loretta, but the bar can get quite busy on weekends, so I recommend to arrive early to get a table.

WEBSITE | 320 Beauregard St, San Antonio, TX 78210

5. The Moon’s Daughters

The Moon's Daughters is a trendy rooftop lounge and bar located on the top floor of the Thompson Hotel. (See our review of this luxury hotel here.) With its sweeping views of the city of San Antonio, I can say that this is probably THE best view from a cocktail bar in the entire city.

The interior is inspired by the Greek goddess of the moon, so it was set up to mimic the twinkling city lights and starry nights in San Antonio. It has plush indoor seating, creating a cozy ambiance perfect for a fun night out with friends or a unique date night. (Psst: here are 50+ date ideas in San Antonio.)

The cocktail menu at The Moon's Daughters features a range of unique drinks, such as La Granada served with Bacardi, Blue Curacao, Lime, and Simple Syrup; and Winter's Dram with Bourbon, All-Spiced Dram, Clove Syrup, Lemon, and Grated Cinnamon. Cocktails at The Moon's Daughters are typically in the $16 range. (Keep in mind that this bar is at one of the best riverwalk hotels, so you’re also paying for the view and experience!) They also offer a fantastic food menu ranging from entrees, chips and bites, and light meals.

Before you dine in here make sure to get a reservation as The Moon's Daughters can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours.

WEBSITE | 115 Lexington Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205

6. Maverick Whiskey

Maverick Whiskey is a must-visit destination not just for cocktail lovers but also for whiskey lovers! The interior of the bar is beautiful, all warm and inviting with rustic wooden beams. It’s also decorated with some vintage whiskey barrels and old-fashioned whiskey-making equipment, which add to the uniqueness and authenticity of the entire experience.

One interesting fact about Maverick Whiskey is that it's housed in a historic building that dates back to the late 1800s. The building has a rich history and was once home to a textile mill and a print shop before it was renovated into the stunning bar today. Its name was derived from the name of Samuel Augustus Maverick (1803-1870), a Signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

Maverick Whiskey is, of course, primarily known for its impressive selection of whiskey. Some of the most popular whiskeys include the Private Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a grain-to-glass whiskey produced completely in-house using select Texas-grown corn, rye, and barley and aged on-site in the vaults, and of course, their Straight Rye Whiskey distilled from Texas-grown Wren’s Abruzzi Rye, Yellow Corn, and malted Barley.

The prices at Maverick Whiskey are in line with what you would expect for a high-end cocktail bar. These bottles of rare and vintage whiskeys cost about $40 to $75, while their cocktails range from $10-$15. They also have a food menu for dinner.

All in all, Maverick Whiskey is a great place to gather with friends or for a date night to enjoy its casual but sophisticated vibe. Reservations are not required but are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays when the bar can get busy.

WEBSITE | 115 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78205

7. Bar 1919

Bar 1919 is a speakeasy-style bar in Southtown. (See our guide to the best places to eat in Southtown here!)

When you step inside, you'll find yourself transported to an older era, with its rich wooden furnishings, plush leather seating, and dimly lit ambiance. (Definitely add this to your date night spots!)

What sets this bar apart from others is its location within a historic building at the Blue Star Arts Complex. The bar's name itself holds a hint of intrigue, possibly indicating a connection to a significant event or personality from the past. Plus it's one of San Antonio’s oldest cocktail bars, a testament to its enduring popularity and reputation.

The cocktail menu at Bar 1919 has an impressive selection of drinks, each a masterpiece of flavor. A few standout options are the Monte Carlo classic, Blue Grass Fizz, French 75 with gin, palm beach special, Q-cum cocktail, and lingonberry lick.

In terms of prices, cocktails at Bar 1919 are pretty reasonably priced, ranging from $9-12. This really is an exceptional date night spot, but I love it equally as a fun spot for a group of friends (perhaps for a birthday gathering?)

While Bar 1919 specializes in cocktails, it also offers a few bites to accompany your drinks. When it comes to reservations, it’s not always required but they are recommended.

Photo Credit: Torence H, Yelp

WEBSITE | 1420 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78204

8. Paramour

Paramour is a rooftop colorful cocktail lounge that's going to deliver a FUN time! It's bright, quirky, and full of personality. Their seating arrangements feel like a luxury home as they have sofas and center tables, artistic lighting, and a rooftop garden. Paramour offers one of the best rooftop cocktail bar experiences in San Antonio!

The bar itself was named after the French word for "secret lover," evoking an air of mystery and romance. While Paramour isn't the oldest cocktail bar in San Antonio, it has quickly become a celebrated addition to the city's vibrant bar scene.

For those who want an alfresco experience, Paramour offers a playful rooftop patio where guests can enjoy their drinks while watching the city skyline.

The cocktail menu at Paramour is cleverly divided into the 5 stages of a successful relationship, all crafted to satisfy your tastebuds. Order from Vulnerability, Trust, Pleasure, Agony, or Fulfillment.

Cocktail prices at Paramour typically fall within the moderate to slightly higher range starting from $18. (You're definitely paying for the entire experience here.)

While cocktails take center stage, they also offer a selection of small bites and appetizers.

If you gravitate toward cocktail bars with picturesque rooftops, trendy vibes, and inventive cocktails, you’ll probably love Paramour. It’s an ideal setting for a fun, upbeat date night out, because of its breathtaking views. (Keep in mind that this place can get pretty crowded!) It’s also a casual spot where friends can gather for a relaxed hangout.

Photo Credit: Jennifer M, Yelp

WEBSITE | 102 9th St Floor 4, San Antonio, TX 78215

9. The Modernist

The Modernist, an avant-garde cocktail bar nestled just north of downtown San Antonio, attracts cocktail drinkers with its sleek and minimalist interior. It has a fusion of contemporary design and modern elegance.

The bar is located within the historic Milam Building, a nod to the city's architectural legacy. The Modernist brings a fresh perspective to San Antonio's cocktail scene.

The first thing you'll notice about The Modernist is they don’t have a menu. If you order a classic cocktail, each drink will be made to your taste, which is a very fun experience for advanced cocktail drinkers! Due to its unique way of serving cocktails, their prices tend to be on the higher end, reflecting the artistry of the bartenders and premium ingredients that go into each creation.

We love this place as a chic destination for a sophisticated date night, with well-crafted drinks and an intimate ambiance. While The Modernist primarily focuses on its inventive libations, it also offers a selection of small plates and snacks to complement the drinking experience.

Photo Credit: Eren W, Yelp

WEBSITE | 516 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

10. Jazz TX

Jazz TX, an underground speakeasy at The Historic Pearl. Itboasts an interior that resonates with the soul of jazz itself. The dimly lit space, adorned with rich wood accents, plush leather seating, and vintage artwork, captures the essence of a classic jazz lounge. The ambiance is both inviting and sophisticated, setting the stage for a relaxing evening of jazz and drinks.

It's situated in the basement at the historic Pearl Brewery complex, adding a touch of nostalgia and historical significance to the experience.

The cocktail menu at Jazz TX is a blend of classic and new. Some of their best cocktails are Whiskey in the Shade, Bananas in Havana, Sonora Sour, and Nightfall Spritz. The average price of cocktails here is around $14. Keep in mind that you’ll also need a concert ticket to attend Jazz, TX, and you'll probably end up ordering some food, too. It can be a pricey evening, but it's worth it!

Of course, what we love most in Jazz, TX aside from their menus and ambiance are the live jazz performances. This place is perfect for a creative San Antonio date night, where the combination of music and drinks sets the stage for a memorable evening.

While Jazz TX primarily shines as a music venue, it also offers a selection of delectable small plates and shareable dishes. You could certainly eat a full dinner here during the jazz show! Or, dine at one of these fantastic restaurants at the Pearl before the concert begins.

Walk-ins are available here, but the shows tend to sell out. So if you want to guarantee seats, get tickets in advance.

Photo Credit: Bernie L, Yelp

WEBSITE | 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 6, Suite 6001, San Antonio, TX 78215

11. George’s Keep

Nestled in the northwestern edge of San Antonio, George's Keep has a refined European ambiance. The interior is adorned with warm wood accents, soft lighting, and a blend of modern and traditional design elements. It’s a beautiful space to sit back and relax while you enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail in San Antonio.

This bar is located on the terrace level of the European-style property, infusing the space with all sorts of character that you don’t typically see in San Antonio bars! Outdoor seating is available at George's Keep, so you can enjoy your drinks while soaking in the view.

The cocktail menu has a tantalizing selection of libations that showcase creativity and craftsmanship. George's Signature Cocktail, Cafe y Cigarillo, Purty In Pink, Conejito Malo, and Sundía Fundía are some of the most ordered cocktails here. The cocktail prices generally fall within the moderate to higher range…not the place to go for a bargain, but they’re also not outlandish. They also offer a selection of dishes and small plates.

This is an excellent choice for a refined and upscale date night, especially if you’re already staying at the Eilan Hotel and spa in San Antonio.

Photo Credit: Dennis S, Yelp

WEBSITE | 17803 La Cantera Terrace, San Antonio, TX 78256

12. La Ruina

An homage to tropical America, La Ruina is an exciting cocktail haven here in San Antonio. It has a rustic charm interior with modern touches. Exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and vintage furnishings create an ambiance that exudes life and fun! The atmosphere strikes a balance between cozy and upscale, making it the perfect place for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a fun night out.

Their cocktail menu has a collection of creative drinks that cater to all sorts of palates. (Lots of rum options here!) A few popular options include the Old Fashioneds, Mai Tai, Old Cuban, Caipirinha, and Pantufla. Their prices fall within a moderate range, starting from $11. They also offer some small bites or appetizers in their menu to complement the drinking experience.

La Ruina is a cozy spot that’s great for a casual hangout with friends. The blend of unique drinks and comfortable surroundings fosters a laid-back yet refined experience.

Photo Credit: Yuki M, Yelp

WEBSITE | 410 Austin St, San Antonio, TX 78215

13. Double Standard

Double Standard - best cocktail bars in San Antonio

Double Standard is a trendy cocktail bar in downtown San Antonio. The space is decorated with exposed brick walls design, sleek metal accents, and ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated, celebratory space.

The cocktail menu at Double Standard has a well-rounded selection of drinks. Noteworthy options include Vieux Carre, Rum Punch, Boulevardier, and their delicious Hurricane. The prices are within a moderate range, offering a balance between quality and affordability.

While Double Standard primarily focuses on cocktails, they also have a full menu including raw oysters, salads, steak frites, and sandwiches. It’s a great spot for a burger and a cocktail at the bar.

Photo: Double Standard

WEBSITE | 114 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205

14. Amor Eterno

Amor Eterno, a captivating cocktail bar in Southtown, boasts a dark, moody interior. The space is not that huge, but it packs a punch! It’s adorned with reclaimed wood accents, vibrant artwork and lighting, and cozy seating. The atmosphere strikes a balance between intimate and vibrant.

Their cocktail menu has a curated selection of drinks that cater to diverse tastes. Some of the best cocktail options include the lower-cost house cocktails like Noche De Amor, Bangkok Surprise, and Italian Playboy, and classic cocktails like Bramble, Clover Club, and more. The average cost of their cocktail is around $12, so it’s a pretty reasonably priced cocktail bar. They also offer some small bites, dishes and appetizers to complement the drinking experience.

Photo Credit: Kyla M, Yelp

WEBSITE | 540 S Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78205

15. Cellar Mixology

Cellar Mixology is a must-visit if you’re looking for the best cocktail bars in SA! This hidden gem in San Antonio is a speakeasy bar with basement walls that date back more than 100 years. Cellar Mixology is a fancy cocktail bar, making it a perfect choice for a romantic and elegant evening.

The cocktail menu at Cellar Mixology boasts a curated selection of artisanal creations, each a masterpiece of flavor and creativity.

One of the best cocktail options is the Lavender Martini, crafted with vodka, lavender-infused simple syrup, and a hint of citrus, as well as the Barrel-Aged Negroni. Cocktail prices at Cellar Mixology fall into the higher range, reflecting the craftsmanship and quality ingredients that go into each drink.

While cocktails take center stage, Cellar Mixology also offers 90-minute mixology classes, which include a tour and a demonstration of how to make 2-3 cocktails. Definitely plan on making reservations, whether you want to take the class or you just want to stop by for a cocktail.

Photo Credit: Vero U, Yelp

WEBSITE | 1142 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

16. Haunt at St Anthony Hotel

Haunt at St. Anthony Hotel, situated in the heart of San Antonio, is for those of us who love historic grandeur and ghost stories! The space strikes a balance between historic sophistication and modern comfort. It’s a good place to add to your list for an elegant and memorable date night.

When it comes to the cocktail menu, Haunt showcases a curated selection of artfully crafted cocktails. Given its upscale setting, cocktail prices at Haunt are a bit on the higher end, but it’s worth it for the premium ingredients and meticulous preparation that go into each drink. While cocktails take center stage, you can also enjoy some gourmet bites and small plates to complete your dining experience.

Aside from Haunt's luxurious ambiance and expertly mixed cocktails, it also has impeccable service. Haunt at St. Anthony Hotel leans toward being a fancy cocktail bar so reservations are highly recommended, especially for prime hours.

Photo Credit: Chrystal G, Yelp

WEBSITE | 300 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205

17. Hanzo Japanese Whisky Bar

Hanzo is an exciting Japanese whisky bar that blends modern chic and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The interior is a masterpiece of design, featuring sleek lines and minimalist decor. They also have outdoor seating.

The cocktail menu at Hanzo showcases an impressive selection of unique contemporary Asian cocktails. Signature options include Summer of Sukuna, Midnight Venus, The Green Thumps Up, Hanzo Daiquiri with Pineapple Rum, Mangosteen Nectar, Simple Syrup, Lime, Raspberries.

Cocktail prices at Hanzo are, surprisingly, at a low price range from $10-$11. (Plus you can go for happy hour discounts!) We recommend this place for a fun night out with friends for a few drinks and small plates, or a creative date night location.

Photo Credit: Vanessa P, Yelp

WEBSITE | 7701 Broadway Ste 124, San Antonio, TX 78209

18. The Bang Bang Bar

The Bang Bang Bar is a vibrant and eclectic cocktail destination in San Antonio. The space is full of quirky decor, colorful artwork, and a sense of creative energy and community.

The cocktail menu showcases a mix of inventive drinks that reflect the bar's unique personality. The Bang Bang Bar also offers a selection of light bites and finger foods to complement the drinking experience.

The Bang Bang Bar is a fantastic spot for a casual and fun hangout with friends. The combination of imaginative drinks and the artsy atmosphere creates an unforgettable night.

No need for reservations here!

Photo Credit: Caitie A, Yelp

WEBSITE | 119 El Mio Dr, San Antonio, TX 78216