The weather has changed, and in San Antonio it is the perfect time of year to dine outdoors with the family. There are so many wonderful restaurants all around San Antonio that fit this category, so we took the opportunity to compile this list of outdoor family-friendly dining options all around the Alamo City. If you’re looking for a casual meal where you can eat on a patio while the kids play, we’ve got you covered!
Northeast/Schertz
La Hacienda de Los Barrios (18747 Redland Rd., San Antonio, TX 78259 | (210) 497-8000)—A Barrios family restaurant, La Hacienda de Los Barrios offers delicious Tex-Mex favorites, killer margaritas, an amazing patio, and a playground for kids to play on while you dine patio-side. Note: While the playground is large and impressive as far as restaurant playsets go, it is a short walking distance from the patio area and cannot always be viewed from the outdoor tables, so it may not be the best option for those with younger children who must be strictly monitored while playing.
La Cabana (170 Buffalo Pl., Cibolo, TX 78108 | (210) 658-6600)—Featuring an inside bar area, indoor seating, and an outdoor dining area with two levels of seating, this restaurant is much larger than it appears from the road. The top patio area has live music on the weekends, but the lower patio area provides a better view of the playground for those with littles. Don’t worry—you can still hear the music from either level. Enjoy a margarita and let the kids play!
Mattenga’s Pizzeria (6044 FM 3009, Suite 290, Schertz, TX 78154 | (210) 592-1138)—A family-owned restaurant with great food, good specials, and an outdoor area for kids to roam. From pizza to calzones to other Italian entrees, you can’t go wrong with any selection here. Mattenga’s features a “make your own pizza” night for the kids twice weekly as well as a family special on Fridays that offers families a delicious meal for a great price.
3 Double-O Nine Restaurant (17460 IH-35 N., Schertz, TX 78154 | (210) 651-0415)—This family favorite may be located within an HEB, but really, you will be pleasantly surprised. With a full bar, a varied menu that includes a separate kids’ menu, live music on the covered patio, and an area where the kids can run and play, there’s plenty to love about this family-friendly eatery. Visit on Thursdays, when kids eat free and a face painter or balloon artist usually strolls the patio to provide entertainment for young ones, or stop by on Sunday for brunch!
Erick’s Tacos (12715 Nacogdoches Rd., San Antonio, TX 78233 | (210) 590-0994)—Erick’s is a food-truck-turned-restaurant with a food truck on the premises. (Did I lose you yet?) Families can order from the food truck and sit under the awning at the picnic tables. No fuss, good Mexican street fare, Spanish music playing on the radio, and usually a soccer game showing on TV. Wash down your meal with a Mexican soda and treat the kids to a paleta (a fruit popsicle). Puro San Antonio!
Wraptitude (23210 FM 3009, San Antonio, TX 78266 | (210) 657-9727)—A relatively new restaurant with a casual, family-friendly vibe, Wraptitude offers gourmet wraps, burgers, and beer. The patio is small, but it fits the bill for families looking to dine al fresco while the kids play on the playscape.
Longhorn Cafe (Nacogdoches location: 12311 Nacogdoches Rd., San Antonio, TX 78233, (210) 467-5353 | Rittiman location: 1003 Rittiman Rd., San Antonio, TX 78218, (210) 822-7272)—With several locations in town, this local counter-serve chain dishes up burgers and American favorites in a casual, rustic setting. Most locations include a playscape as well as arcade games to keep the kids entertained. Pro tip: Order the fried mushrooms as an appetizer and the beanburger or guacamole burger as an entree—they’re all delish!
North Central
Alamo Cafe (14250 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78232 | (210) 495-2233)—A San Antonio staple, Alamo Cafe offers a huge menu of Tex-Mex dishes and is known for its delicious homemade tortillas, creamy queso, and amazing chicken-fried steak. While there are two in town, the 281 location boasts a giant patio with a man=made pond and grassy knoll where kids can explore after finishing dinner.
MoMaks Backyard Malts & Burgers (13838 Jones Maltsberger Rd., San Antonio, TX 78247 | (210) 481-3600)—Serving up burgers, onion rings, and malts, MoMaks is a great option for families with kids of all ages. The outdoor area is a kid’s paradise, with a large ball field, playsets of varying sizes, and even a small merry-go-round for the five-and-under crowd.
The Pigpen (109 Pershing Ave., San Antonio, TX 78209 | (210) 267-9136)—Located next to the Smoke Shack just across the street from the Witte Museum, The Pigpen is a casual bar/restaurant that serves barbecue from its smoker. Inside, there is a small stage, seating at long tables, and a bar with local beers on tap. Outside, the triangle-shaped yard offers more tables and some laid-back seating around a playscape. The yard is fenced and usually full of kids running around and making up games while their parents nibble, sip, and talk.
Tycoon Flats (2926 N. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio, TX 78212 | (210) 320-0819)—This kid-friendly burger joint and beer garden offers Tex-Mex grub, a full bar, craft brews, and live music on certain days and times. The play area features small climbing structures and slides that are best reserved for the five-and-under crowd.
Shuck Shack (520 E. Grayson St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 236-7422)—Shuck Shack feels like a escape to the beach. While it’s known for its oysters, you’ll have to fight the urge to order one of everything on the menu. The Cajun boil whole artichoke is the perfect appetizer, and the lobster roll is pretty hard to pass up. Give yourself a mini-vacation while you kick back on the patio and the kids play on playscape. 
The Cove (606 W. Cypress St., San Antonio, TX 78212 | (210) 227-2683)—Known for its quirky ambiance and organic fare, The Cove is a great spot for families to enjoy lunch or dinner outside. Fish tacos are its claim to fame, but the burgers are equally delicious and high quality. With more than 60 Texas beers on tap, as well as a full bar, it can get crowded on weekends, as patrons tend to linger. Expect lots of kids, a pet-friendly patio, and a relaxed, yet jovial atmosphere.
Cerroni’s Purple Garlic (1017 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78209 | (210) 822-2300)—Located in Terrell Hills, this restaurant is a gem, with a menu full of great Italian entrees and salads. Kids eat free on Wednesdays and Saturdays with the purchase of an adult entree. Indoor seating is an option, but the outside offers tables in view of the sandbox, so you can enjoy a glass of wine with your meal while the kids play. Just make sure to wash those little ones’ hands before they eat and empty their shoes of sand before getting into the car!
Bottling Department Food Hall at The Pearl (312 Pearl Pkwy., San Antonio, TX 78215)—A great option when your clan is craving different kinds of food, as you can choose from ramen, burgers, vegan grain and vegetable bowls, and Cajun-inspired chicken and sides. The Pearl Food Hall offers a nice wine selection, and all beverages are served in plastic glasses so you can enjoy them outside. The play area is ample, but it can get a little rambunctious, so it’s not ideal for little ones who may get caught up in a game of soccer or tag.
Willie’s Grill and Ice House (Hill Country Village location: 15801 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78233 | (210) 490-9220)—With several locations in San Antonio, Willie’s is a perfect family-friendly spot for those with both older and younger kids alike. The menu is enormous, with a variety of salads, burgers, and other American fare, as well as plenty of seafood options and a kids’ menu. An indoor arcade will keep older kids happy while little ones delight in digging their way through the patio sandbox.
Longhorn Cafe (Original Blanco Rd. location: 17625 Blanco Rd., San Antonio, TX 78232 | (210) 492-0301)—See Northeast/Schertz listings for full description.
Far North/Boerne/Bulverde
Oaks Crossing (23625 Wilderness Oak, San Antonio, TX 78258 | (210) 482-3360)—This family-friendly spot adjoins to HEB, but don’t let that scare you away! The menu is ample, and the patio is perfect for family dining, complete with live music on the weekends and a turfed area where kids can toss a ball around.
Willie’s Grill & Ice House (Shavano Park location: 4051 N. Loop 1604, San Antonio, TX 78232, (210) 492-4333 | Leon Springs location: 24200 IH-10 W., San Antonio, TX 78257, (210) 698-5337)—See full description in North Central listings.
Big’z Burger Joint (1604 location: 2303 N. Loop 1604, San Antonio, TX 78258 | (210) 408-2029)—Big’z is definitely the place to go when you want to let the kids run around. They have yummy burgers and a huge grassy field to run and play. Tip: Be sure to bring a ball to entertain the kids when you go.
The Point Park & Eats (24188 Boerne Stage Rd., San Antonio, TX 78255 | (210) 251-3380)—Arguably San Antonio’s most popular food truck park, The Point offers an array of revolving food truck options in a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere. Check the website calendar for details on which trucks you can expect on any given night. Families will enjoy dining together at the picnic tables, and kids will love getting their energy out on the massive playscape afterward.
Random Beer Garden (11 Upper Cibolo Creek Rd., Boerne, TX 78006 | (830) 428-3026)—The epitome of laid-back, low-key family fun, Random features multiple food trucks with excellent variation, 80 taps of craft beer, live music, and a kids’ play area. Tons of covered and uncovered seating await—perfect for those beautiful spring Texas nights!
Dog & Pony Grill (1481 S. Main St., Boerne, TX 78006 | (830) 816-7669)—A fun family spot with a deck that surrounds the restaurant, stage for live music, basketball court, and playscape. You can’t go wrong with the salad bar and a burger at this spot!
Tejas Rodeo (401 Obst. Rd., Bulverde, TX 78163 | (830) 980-2226)—While it’s more of an experience than merely a restaurant, Tejas Rodeo should be on every family’s list if you’re looking for fun, family-friendly dining. Kids are allowed in the steakhouse, Tejas Steakhouse & Saloon, but most families will probably prefer to order through the window and find a seat at the picnic tables that line the outdoor area. Though there are burgers and hot dogs to satisfy picky eaters, the barbecue options will make your mouth water. Enjoy the rodeo experience after dinner and let the kids wiggle on the dance floor before it gets too crowded for a perfect Saturday night with the fam.
Beefy’s On the Green (12910 U.S. 281 N., Spring Branch, TX 78070 | (830) 885-6756)—Serving up a variety of classic burgers, Beefy’s On the Green opened in 2009 and was the sister restaurant to the now-closed Beefy’s Backyard on 281 just past Overlook Parkway. Featuring an outdoor playground and basketball court, it’s a favorite after-game spot for youth sports teams and the perfect place to let kids burn off some energy after dinner. Be sure to order the curly fries if you visit—they’re the best around!
Richter’s Antler Cafe (1 Sun Valley Dr., Spring Branch, TX 78070 | (830) 885-6328)—This off-the-beaten-path country cafe serves up Southern favorites like old-fashioned burgers, Tex-Mex, and some of the best chicken-fried steak in the San Antonio area. Dine on the patio while the kids play on the playset and check out the chickens that roam the property. And if you’re feeling daring, order the frog legs! Pro tip: be sure to get there early, especially on the weekends, as space is limited and this place gets packed. But it’s worth the wait—we promise!
Longhorn Cafe (Boerne location: 369 S. Esser Rd., Boerne, TX 78006, (210) 331-4011 | Leon Springs location: 23775 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257, (210) 698-7766)—See Northeast/Schertz listings for full description.
Northwest/Helotes/Castroville
Viola’s Ventanas (9660 Westover Hills Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78251 | (210) 684-9660)—A Barrios family restaurant, so named for Viola Barrios, the inspiration behind many of its recipes, this spacious, airy eatery serves upscale Mexican cuisine in an old-world setting with outdoor seating. Featuring live music and a massive playscape for the kids, this northwest side jewel is sure to keep both parents and kids happy.
El Chaparral (Helotes location: 15103 Bandera Rd., Helotes, TX 78023, (210) 695-8302 | North East location: 2838 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, TX 78232, (210) 490-8302)—This family-run restaurant serves up Tex-Mex fare and has a sprawling patio that leads to an open space for the kids to run and play after dinner, as well as a playscape. Try the tortilla soup or the lone star tacos—your belly will thank you for it.
Two Step Restaurant & Cantina (9840 W. Loop 1604 N., San Antonio, TX 78254 | (210) 688-2686)—Constructed from what originally functioned as a house and barn in the 1800s, this family-friendly restaurant offers Texas-inspired cuisine, oak-roasted meats, and margaritas. Check the website to view the live music schedule. There is also a nice, fenced-in outdoor area next to the patio—perfect for kids to run around a little after dinner!
Big’z Burger Joint (Helotes location: 10106 Hwy. 151 S., San Antonio, TX 78251 | (210) 543-2029)—See full description in Far North/Boerne/Bulverde listings.
Willie’s Grill & Ice House (151 location: 8739 TX-151, San Antonio, TX 78245 | (210) 375-5221)—See full description in North Central listings.
Cora’s 471 Grill (2204 FM 471, Castroville, TX 78009 | (830) 971-9799)—If you want “the Best Nachos in Texas,” head to Cora’s 471—it’s worth the drive! Cora’s has a great outdoor patio and play area for the kids, and the food is delicious. Everything is made from scratch, and it feels like you’re having dinner at your best friend’s house. Make sure to check the website often because they have great live music scheduled. The pepper steak is amazing, so don’t fill up on the nachos!
South/Downtown
The Friendly Spot (943 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 224-2337)—This kid-friendly, casual ice house offers 250+ brews, Mexican and American fare, and brunch in a relaxed setting. Enjoy a cold one on the large, colorful patio while the kids explore the playset.
Burleson Yard Beer Garden (430 Austin St., San Antonio, TX 78215 | (210) 354-3001)—Located in Dignowity Hill just northeast of downtown, next to the train tracks, Burleson Yard Beer Garden is a sprawling, beautiful playground for kids and adults, complete with hammocks, ping pong tables, a stage, and a literal kids’ playground. In addition to the wide selection of beers on tap, they have a full bar and excellent frozen margaritas. Order off the Baby Taco garage menu—the tacos, queso, and other classics are all excellent. This spot is not only great for families, but perfect for large groups, as the outside area seems to go on and on.
Willie’s Grill & Ice House (Zarzamora location: 7911 IH-35 S., San Antonio, TX 78224 | (210) 541-5253)—See full description in North Central listings.
Longhorn Cafe (3150 SE Military Dr. #106, San Antonio, TX 78233 | (210) 359-6002)—See full description in Northeast/Schertz listings.
Take advantage of our beautiful spring weather and dine al fresco with the family. Just don’t forget your sweater and kids’ hoodies—this is Texas, after all, and the weather changes every five minutes!
Do you have a favorite, family-friendly restaurant for dining patio-side that we forgot to include in our list? Share in the comments!
B. Daddy’s BBQ in old town Helotes has a yard, playscape, giant Jenga, live music, and excellent BBQ
Yum! I don’t find myself often in Helotes but thanks for letting our readers know
you need to add The Pod to your list. Its right next to La Hacienda de Los Barrios on Redland. But in my option, better place for the kids. And food is fantastic.
I have to check this one out! Thanks for the info!