Holiday carbs don’t count, right? At least that’s what we’re telling ourselves as we dive fork-first into San Antonio’s most festive eats this season.
Who says the holidays are all about lights and presents? In San Antonio, we know the best way to celebrate the season is with incredible food that brings people together. From jolly breakfasts with Santa to historic holiday feasts and a Grinch-inspired night out, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s most festive dining experiences.
Now, let’s get to the main course—literally. We’re diving fork-first into San Antonio’s most festive dining experiences, where the menus are merry, the vibes are bright, and the calories? Totally worth it.
We’ll be out to taste-test these spots and rate them on our Jingle Score to see if they’re worth adding to your holiday tradition—or if they’re more naughty than nice. Here’s what’s on the menu!
Here’s your guide to the best restaurants and cafés in San Antonio, where holiday calories don’t count, but the memories sure do. Let’s dig in!
#1. Family Night: A Magical Morning at the Westin Riverwalk
Santa’s Breakfast Spread—Here’s the Scoop
On December 14, 2024, the Westin Riverwalk transforms into a holiday haven with its North Pole Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Think fluffy pancakes, festive tunes, and activities to keep the kids entertained (and you caffeinated). Plus, Santa and Mrs. Claus are on hand for photos, storytime, and letter-writing sessions that bring the magic straight from the North Pole.
Location:
420 West Market Street San Antonio, TX 78205
What to Expect:
- A North Pole Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus on December 14, 2024.
- A delicious breakfast buffet packed with family-friendly holiday dishes.
- Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus to capture unforgettable moments.
- Storytime with Santa, holiday music, festive coloring, and letter-writing stations for the kids.
Why This Event Has Our Attention
It’s not every day you get to combine breakfast with a side of Christmas cheer. This isn’t just about the food; it’s the whole holiday package—music, stories, and memories waiting to be made. Bonus: it’s set on the iconic Riverwalk, adding a little extra sparkle to the morning.
We’ll be out to see if this morning magic earns a top spot on our Jingle Score. Is it Santa’s Favorite, or will it leave us saying, “Meh, where’s the cheer?” Stay tuned!
#2. Feast Like It’s 1883: A Holiday Spread at the Historic Menger Hotel
Step Back in Time to a Holiday Feast Worth Savoring
Starting Friday, November 29, the Historic Menger Hotel is serving up its Holiday Lunch Buffet Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, running through January 2. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a seasonal celebration served with a side of history and charm.
What to Expect:
- A full Holiday Buffet featuring festive favorites like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and decadent desserts.
- Brunch Highlights: Omelet and waffle stations, carving stations, and bottomless mimosas to keep the cheer flowing.
- Their famous Bread Pudding—the dessert that’s become a Menger tradition.
- Complimentary Eggnog to toast to the season and complimentary valet parking for a stress-free experience.
Why It’s Worth It:
The Menger Hotel isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a piece of San Antonio history. Combine that with festive décor and a menu designed for the holidays, and you’ve got a dining experience that feels as timeless as the season itself.
Why We’re Covering It:
Holiday buffets are everywhere this time of year, but the Menger comes with 140 years of history and a promise of elegance. Will the food live up to the reputation, or is nostalgia doing all the heavy lifting? We’ll be there to find out—and we’re bringing the Jingle Score with us.
Follow WTDSA to see if this iconic spread earns Santa’s Favorite status—or if we’ll be reaching for an extra mimosa to make it through. 🎄
#3. Whoville Who? Elsewhere’s Grinch Menu Will Steal Your Holiday Hunger
Location: Elsewhere Bar & Kitchen, 103 East Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
Dates: November 25, 2024 – January 1, 2025
A Menu Even the Grinch Can’t Resist
Kicking off November 25, Elsewhere Bar & Kitchen is flipping holiday tradition on its head with their Grinch-Inspired Menu. Forget sugarplums and carolers—this lineup of mischievous cocktails and playful plates is dripping with sass and holiday cheer (Grinch style).
What to Expect:
- Playful Grinch-Themed Dishes that look straight out of Whoville but taste like a holiday dream.
- Mischievous Cocktails that’ll have you toasting the season—or plotting to “steal Christmas” yourself.
- A lively, festive atmosphere where Grinchmas comes to life, welcoming families, friends, and anyone ready for a little holiday fun.
- Plenty of photo opportunities to show off your Grinch-inspired cheer.
Why It’s Worth Checking Out
Elsewhere Bar & Kitchen isn’t serving up your standard holiday meal. This free, family-friendly event turns dining into an experience, complete with a menu that combines whimsy, creativity, and just the right amount of Grinchy fun. Whether you’re stopping by for a bite or just soaking in the vibe, this is a holiday outing that steals the season—in the best way possible.
Will the Grinch Steal the Show?
We’ll be there to see if Elsewhere delivers a Grinchmas masterpiece or just a menu with attitude. Will it be Merry & Bright, or will we leave feeling as green as the theme? Stay tuned for our Jingle Score to find out if this free event is one worth toasting—or roasting!
Follow WTDSA for the full verdict, and come experience a little Grinchy magic for yourself! 🎄
