San Antonio, while known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, boasts a surprising number of excellent seafood restaurants, many featuring delectable shrimp dishes. This guide dives into the top 20 spots offering the best shrimp experiences in the city, categorized for your convenience. Whether you crave classic shrimp scampi, spicy shrimp tacos, or succulent grilled shrimp, you'll find your perfect match here. We'll cover everything from casual eateries to upscale dining, ensuring there's a shrimp haven for every taste and budget.
Best Overall Shrimp Experiences
These restaurants consistently deliver high-quality shrimp dishes in a variety of styles, earning them a place at the top of our list.
1. Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood: Bohanan's is a San Antonio institution known for its upscale atmosphere and exceptional seafood. Their shrimp preparations are consistently exquisite, showcasing fresh, high-quality ingredients. Expect expertly cooked shrimp in dishes that highlight their natural flavors.
2. The Esquire Tavern: This historic tavern offers a sophisticated ambiance and a menu that includes refined shrimp dishes. Their shrimp cocktails are legendary, and their more elaborate preparations are equally impressive. The atmosphere alone makes it a memorable dining experience.
3. Boudro's: Located on the River Walk, Boudro's offers stunning views and a menu that showcases fresh Gulf Coast seafood. Their shrimp dishes are consistently delicious, and the location adds to the overall dining experience.
Casual Shrimp Havens: Quick Bites and Delicious Eats
These spots are perfect for a relaxed meal without sacrificing quality.
4. Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina: Rosario's is a local favorite for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Their shrimp tacos are legendary, and their other shrimp dishes are just as satisfying. Expect generous portions and flavorful preparations.
5. Paesanos Riverwalk: A classic San Antonio Italian restaurant, Paesanos offers a variety of pasta dishes featuring succulent shrimp. Their shrimp scampi is a particular favorite.
6. The Original Mexican Restaurant: A long-standing San Antonio institution, this restaurant is known for its consistently excellent Mexican food. Look for their shrimp dishes within their extensive menu.
7. Iron Cactus Mexican Restaurant & Margarita Bar: Several locations around San Antonio provide a lively atmosphere and tasty shrimp dishes, often featuring creative twists on classic Mexican recipes.
Hidden Gems: Discovering San Antonio's Shrimp Secrets
These lesser-known gems are worth seeking out for a unique and memorable shrimp experience.
8. Frederick's: Known for its innovative and modern approach to cuisine, Frederick's might surprise you with a unique shrimp dish that pushes culinary boundaries.
9. Bliss: This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated menu with carefully selected ingredients, including high-quality shrimp. Expect dishes with interesting flavor combinations.
10. Cured: While not strictly a seafood restaurant, Cured's charcuterie board often includes delicious and unique shrimp preparations.
11. Smoke Shack: This BBQ joint offers a surprising but delicious shrimp dish - their smoked shrimp is a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Shrimp Tacos and More: Street Food Style
If you're looking for a more casual, street-food-inspired shrimp experience, these spots deliver.
12. Taco Haven: A long-time San Antonio favorite, their shrimp tacos are consistently delicious and a great value.
13. Mariscos El Palenque: This seafood spot offers a range of shrimp dishes with a focus on authentic Mexican flavors.
14. La Familia Mexican Restaurant: This family-friendly restaurant serves up generous portions of well-prepared shrimp dishes.
15. Pollos Asados Los Norteños: While primarily known for roasted chicken, this restaurant's unexpected shrimp dishes are worth exploring.
Upscale Shrimp Delights: Fine Dining with a Focus on Shrimp
For a truly special occasion, these restaurants provide an unforgettable shrimp experience.
16. Hotel Emma: Located in the Hotel Emma, this restaurant offers luxurious surroundings and a refined menu. Their shrimp dishes reflect this elegance.
17. Sustenio: Known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, Sustenio's shrimp dishes highlight the best of the region's bounty.
18. Citrus: This restaurant focuses on modern American cuisine, and their shrimp creations reflect a commitment to creativity and flavor.
Shrimp Beyond the Expected: Unique Preparations
These restaurants take a unique and innovative approach to shrimp dishes.
19. Southerleigh: This restaurant, located within the Pearl District, offers a modern take on Southern cuisine, and their shrimp dishes are often unconventional and exciting.
20. The Guenther House: This historic restaurant boasts an elegant ambiance and a menu that includes innovative shrimp preparations.
This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a great starting point for your shrimp-seeking adventures in San Antonio. Remember to check restaurant websites for menus, hours, and reservations before your visit. Enjoy your shrimp journey!
