Restaurant restrictions are starting to lift here in the Alamo City and some families are beginning to venture out. While I respect that not everyone is ready to head out, I wanted to provide options for those who are. Here are my picks for best patios for families in San Antonio! Please note that restaurants are changing rapidly and not all features may be open.
1. Big’z Burger Joint
One of the most COVID-friendly things about Big’z is that it boasts a huge, open play area where kids can run (i.e. no equipment). Big’z is known for their burgers (obviously) but also has great salads and a beer and wine selection.
2. Willie’s Ice House
While Willie’s is known for their sandboxes (which were honestly a germ hot house even in pre-COVID days), they still have a huge patio with plenty of room for kids to get up and move around. Their food is delicious too–I’m a big fan of their crawfish.
3. La Gloria
One of the best things about La Gloria is that their margaritas are so good that no one will care about your kids running around. There are two La Gloria locations that are both delicious–one at the Pearl and one near the Dominion. And bonus–I hear chef Johnny Hernandez is working on a margarita truck!
4. Mi Casa Tamales
Mi Casa is currently open Thursday-Sunday. It has a HUGE field where kids can run, and occasional concerts during non-pandemic times. They have a full bar and, you guessed it, great tamales.
5. Dog and Pony Grill
Located just off of Boerne’s Main Street, Dog and Pony has a recently remodeled patio and play area for kids. Have your kids bring their own basketballs and/or bubbles to play with!
6. Longhorn Cafe
Longhorn Cafe has multiple locations throughout San Antonio, and I am most familiar with the Boerne and Leon Springs locations. They have ample patio space and family-friendly menus.
7. The Point Park and Eats
The Point only has outdoor seating and plenty of shade, making it perfect seating for families during COVID. It is also a food truck park, so there are plenty of options for picky kids, and usually a snow cone truck too!
8. The Friendly Spot
Located in Southtown, The Friendly Spot has a yard with plenty of open space for kids, as well as a great kids’ menu and cold desserts. They’re also known for their great bar menu and occasional sports and movies on inflatable screens.
9. Boiler House
All of the restaurants at the Pearl are great, and most have great patios. I picked Boiler House because of it’s location–across from Larder in Hotel Emma, and it’s a great people (and dog) watching spot for kids. The Mission Reach section of the Riverwalk extends to just outside Boiler House, which is always a great spot to escape to with squirrely toddlers.
10. Streetfare SA
Another food truck park, Streetfare SA is located on the other side of San Antonio from the Point. It is kid AND dog-friendly so no one in your family has to stay home. They have a dog park and horseshoe pit, as well as plenty of open-air seating.
I hope this gives you some great ideas for outdoor dining! Let me know if I missed any of your favorites.
