Just across street from The Alamo, is the Menger Hotel. The hotel is primarily known for three things; a luxury bastion of Texas hospitality, the Menger Bar, site of innumerable cattle deals sealed with nothing but a handshake, and Teddy Roosevelt’s recruiting area for signing up members of his Rough Riders, and the house specialty, mango ice cream. On the menu for over a hundred years, it is arguably the most famous dessert in Texas, and the star on the Colonial Dining Room’s menu. The creamy-smooth dessert is described as somewhere between ice cream and sherbet, and is a wonderfully refreshing treat.
The Luxury, on beautiful River Walk, in San Antonio, Texas is a newly-opened addition to the local culinary offerings of the area. Food prep and bar are housed in two separate refurbished railroad boxcars, and dining is all alfresco, overlooking water taxis plying River Walk. Menu items are primarily exotic sandwiches with an international flair with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. The Crispy Fish Banh Mi, a Vietnamese favorite, is served in a toasted baguette with flaky fish surrounded by dill, onion, mint, jalapenos, carrots, and a fried egg. Domestic, imported, and craft beers, served icy cold, are available, as is a wide selection of wines.
“HotMex – CoolBar” is how Acenar describes itself. Overlooking River Walk, adjacent to the Valencia Hotel, the restaurant is a mainstay for international guests seeking out the fresh and innovative twists on traditional Mexican cuisine. Their unique signature salsa made with roasted tomatoes and ancho peppers starts most every meal. A current favorite is Grilled Gulf Fish with jalapeno honey mayo, and cabbage slaw with pickled red onions. A light Mus de Chocolate Mexicano, chocolate mousse, served with banana slices and drizzled caramel is a flavorful end to a beautiful meal.
A fiesta of colors, lights, and mariachi music fill the 500-seat Mi Tierra Café and Bakery in Market Square in downtown San Antonio. The 72-year old restaurant features one of the largest selections of beers and premium tequilas in Texas to complement the authentic Mexican food. Two popular entrees include the Michoacan Carnitas de Puerco, baked pork tips, seasoned with marinated oranges, served with perfect guacamole, and Costillas de Res Asadas, baked beef ribs.
The dining choices in San Antonio are wide and wonderful. These four only whet the appetite and encourage many return visits to “the Alamo City”.
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