St. Mary's Strip in San Antonio is more than just a street; it's a vibrant hub of nightlife, brimming with unique bars and a diverse atmosphere. Whether you're a craft beer aficionado, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a lively spot to socialize, this guide highlights the top 14 bars in the area, offering something for every taste.
Finding Your Perfect St. Mary's Strip Bar
Choosing the right bar can depend on your mood and preferences. To help you navigate this exciting scene, we've categorized the bars below, making it easier to find your perfect match.
Craft Beer Havens:
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The Esquire Tavern: This historic landmark boasts an extensive selection of craft beers on tap, along with a sophisticated atmosphere and delicious food. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through the diverse options, ensuring you find your perfect pint. They often have rotating seasonal brews, so there's always something new to discover.
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The Friendly Spot: A St. Mary's Strip institution, The Friendly Spot offers a casual, neighborhood vibe with a solid rotating tap list focused on Texas craft breweries. It's a great place to catch a game and enjoy a laid-back evening with friends. Their outdoor patio is particularly popular on warmer evenings.
Cocktail Lounges & Speakeasies:
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The Bonham Exchange: Known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and eclectic drag shows, the Bonham Exchange also boasts a fantastic cocktail menu, with creative and expertly-made drinks. This is a must-visit for a unique and memorable night out.
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The Aztec Theatre: While primarily a venue for live music, The Aztec also features a bar with a curated selection of cocktails, often showcasing seasonal ingredients. It's a great option if you want to combine a great show with excellent drinks.
Dive Bars & Casual Spots:
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Guadalupe's: A true San Antonio dive bar, Guadalupe's is a beloved local haunt known for its cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, and no-frills atmosphere. It's the perfect place to unwind and mingle with locals.
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Paper Tiger: While also hosting shows, Paper Tiger offers a relaxed bar area with a good selection of beer and mixed drinks. It’s perfect for catching up with friends before or after a show.
Upscale Options & Unique Experiences:
- Cured: This charcuterie-focused bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere, an extensive wine list, and a creative menu of small plates. It's a great choice for a date night or a more upscale outing.
More Gems to Explore:
This section features bars offering diverse atmospheres and drink options, ensuring variety within the Strip's scene.
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Bar 101: This laid-back bar often hosts live music and offers a solid drink menu.
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The Cove: Known for its relaxed atmosphere and solid happy hour deals, The Cove is a popular choice among locals.
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Las Canarias: While not technically on the Strip, it's incredibly close and offers a lively, upscale experience, making it a noteworthy addition to any St. Mary's Strip crawl.
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Sam's Burger Joint: Although primarily a burger joint, Sam's has a full bar with a surprisingly good selection of beer and spirits.
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Faust: Located slightly off the main drag, Faust is worth the detour for its unique atmosphere and creative cocktails.
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Backyard on Commerce: Not directly on St. Mary's Strip, but close enough to easily include. It features a large outdoor space with great vibes and a good cocktail menu.
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Rangerettes: Offering a cozy setting and delicious margaritas, this is a great choice for a laid-back evening with friends.
Beyond the Drinks: Exploring St. Mary's Strip
St. Mary's Strip isn't just about the bars; it's a vibrant community with a rich history and diverse offerings. Take some time to explore the street art, the unique shops, and the restaurants that add to the area's charm.
Planning Your St. Mary's Strip Bar Crawl
To make the most of your experience, consider these tips:
- Check for events: Many bars host live music, trivia nights, or other events. Checking their social media pages beforehand will enhance your experience.
- Utilize ride-sharing services: Drinking and driving is never safe. Using ride-sharing apps ensures a responsible and convenient way to get around.
- Pace yourself: Enjoy the experience, sample different bars, and savor the atmosphere rather than rushing through everything.
- Dress comfortably: The atmosphere in most St. Mary's Strip bars is casual.
This guide provides a starting point for exploring the best bars in St. Mary's Strip. Each bar has its own unique personality, so be sure to explore and find your favorites! Cheers!
