25 must-visit LGBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants in San Antonio
Texas hasn't exactly earned a reputation for supporting LGBTQ+ rights, but the queer community here thrives in spite of it — especially in vibrant San Antonio.
In honor of Pride Month, we rounded up 25 LGBTQ-friendly bars and restaurants in the Alamo City, from gay bars on the North Main Strip to LGBTQ-owned and -operated restaurants across the city to local establishments that proudly proclaim their allyship.
The list isn't comprehensive, but it's a great place to start when planning a rainbow-hued night out on the town during Pride Month — or any ol’ time.
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houseofeternasThe Starlighter
1910 Fredericksburg Road, thestarlighter.com
If the bisexual stage lighting isn’t enough of a hint, the Starlighter’s calendar is jam-packed with drag performances. The live music destination in the Deco district regularly hosts drag brunch, a drag market and drag shows featuring local performers.
Sanford Nowlin
Heat Nightclub
1500 N. Main Ave., (210) 227-2600, heatsa.com
If you need to turn up the heat, look no further than Heat Nightclub on the Main Strip. The dance floor is often packed, music pumping and drinks flowing, and the LGBTQ+ space welcomes people from all walks of life. The club also features more quiet and intimate spaces such as the back patio and “Chill Bar.”
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picks_barsaPicks Bar
4553 N. Loop 1604 West, (210) 253-9220, picksbar.com
Jessica Marinez and Amber Hernandez crafted this venue for the live music lovers of SA. The nightspot features live performances, karaoke nights, drag brunches, queer-friendly speed dating and an expansive drink menu and a food menu to boot. The partners — in business and in life — also operate downtown spot Pink Shark.
Julian P. Ledezma
The Bonham Exchange
411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com
Once a pioneering gay disco with a popular “straight night,” the Bonham Exchange is an all-inclusive melting pot with three floors that let you partake in all the good stuff nightlife is made of: drinks, music and dancing. From drag shows to Trash Disco to hot chest contests, this club has an event for all occasions.
Photo courtesy of Nick Simonite for Hotel Havana
Ocho at Hotel Havana
1015 Navarro St., (210) 222-2008, havanasanantonio.com
With Pan-Latin fare, mojitos and a chic aesthetic at the forefront, Ocho is a San Antonio favorite for a reason. Helmed by nonbinary chef Jesse Kuykendall, better known as Chef Kirk, this airy spot is a dependable option for a romantic dinner.
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paramourbarParamour at The Phipps
102 9th St. Floor 4, (210) 417-6559, facebook.com/Paramour.Phipps
Known for its drag brunches, Paramour not only puts on a show, but features a wide range of cocktails to give you something to sip on at this fun rooftop bar — enjoy the skyline views from the open air patio or the colorful views inside the space, courtesy of a number of bedazzled drag performers.
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elsewheresatxElsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen
103 E. Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215, (210) 446-9303, elsewheretexas.com
Elsewhere is located right on the River Walk, making it perfect for people-watching as guests sip their drinks or nosh on the spot’s gourmet goodies. Its drinks range from beers to margaritas to even spiked coffees, guaranteeing a good time as folks revel in adult-sized swings and eclectic outdoor seating areas.
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lamaceta_52La Maceta Tapatios
125 Lamar St., (210) 999-1229, facebook.com/lamaceta.52
Swing by La Maceta Tapatios to fill up before a night of fun. The tacos and taquitos from this LGBTQ-owned food truck are sure to hit the spot, but those wanting to shake things up might want to try La Maceta’s take on a Mexican hot dog.
Nina Rangel
Rosario’s
722 S. St. Mary's St., (210) 223-1806, rosariossa.com
There’s loads of Mexican restaurants to choose from in San Antonio, but Rosario’s is a must-try, with its mix of traditional Mexican foods and house specialties. Rosario’s new Southtown location is a two-story building featuring a 5,000-square-foot rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the downtown skyline.
Sanford Nowlin
Pegasus
1402 N. Main Ave., (210) 299-4222, pegasussanantonio.com
A beacon on the North Main Strip, the party doesn’t stop at popular gay bar Pegasus. The bar’s outdoor stage is host to frequent drag shows and other live entertainment, ranging from outdoor karaoke to video DJs. For many, stopping at Pegasus is almost like going on a pilgrimage: according to its website, it’s the oldest bar on the Strip.
