The 10 Best Restaurant in San Antonio

The brackets have been set and your bags are packed. March Madness is upon us and with that comes the NCAA Men's Tournament held this year in exciting San Antonio, Texas! Whether you're playing in the tourney or just watching the games, one thing is for certain: with all the action you are bound to see, you're going to get hungry ...

In the spirit of the season, I have divided the top 10 restaurants in San Antonio into different subdivisions; "on the bubble"-these two restaurants were good enough to make it in, but would probably get knocked off when compared to other restaurants; "elite eight"-six of these restaurants were good enough to be called elite, but lacked in certain areas. Finally, the 2008 restaurant runner-up and the 2008 National (or San Antonio Restaurant) Champion!

Just as with a basketball team worthy of making it to the "big dance", these restaurants have to be well-rounded with many weapons to use down the stretch. Sure, a restaurant may have star power (popular and exquisite cuisine) but if it doesn't have good defense (customer service), they might as well throw in the towel now.

"On the Bubble":

WD Deli & Bakery: This is a great choice for those people that are in a hurry (i.e. in between games). The dress is casual so you don't need to feel weird walking in all decked out in your favorite team's gear and the price is low so you will still have money for snacks at the later game. WD is known for their pastrami and sourdough sandwiches along with a variety of soups and salads that are served incredibly fast. Looking for a recommended meal-try the Southwest roast beef sandwich, some corn chowder soup, and for desert a lemon ooey-gooey bar! Mmmm mmm

Location: 3123 Broadway St/Phone: 210-828-2322 (no reservations accepted)

The Barn Door: If you are looking for a Texas classic, try the Barn Door which is known for its steakhouse and loved by the locals. The walls and tables are filled with Texas memorabilia. Although the price is a little higher it is about average for a steakhouse. Reservations are recommended though especially on weekend nights. My suggestion is to try the filet mignon with a loaded baked potato.

**Note: Staying somewhere that you have access to a grill? Stop by the on-site butcher shop and pick up a few pounds of meat for everyone to enjoy.

Location: 8400 N New Braunfels/Phone: 210-824-0116

"Elite Eight":

Magnolia Pancake Haus: A long night of celebrating calls for a delicious breakfast and while the celebration can be hard on the pocketbook, Magnolia Pancake Haus has great prices. Everything about this restaurant screams country including the taste of the food-it's easy to tell everything is made from scratch from only the finest ingredients. I suggest pecan pancakes, applewood bacon, and some corn beefed hash. Throw in some coffee and you are ready for the day!

Location: 13444 West Ave. Suite 300/Phone: 210-496-0828 (Reservations are available and recommended for larger parties)

La Calesa: You can't eat in San Antonio and not try some of the fantastic authentic Mexican that's offered. La Calesa has fantastic food made from fresh grown herbs, spices, and seasonings for low prices. Everything at La Calesa is made immediately when you order it and brought out within minutes. Try what you typically like at Mexican restaurants but expect a little bit more of a spicy kick. For an added bonus try the cheese queso which is divine. For drinks, make sure to ask to see the large selection of wines (don't worry, they still have margaritas and Mexican beer)

Location: 2103 E Hildebrand Ave/ Phone: 210-822-4475

Las Cararias: A more upscale International restaurant, Las Cararias is located in the heart of the Riverwalk making its large patio that much more appealing. With the average meal costing around $25, it still won't break the bank. The inside offers brightly colored décor and is open for breakfast, brunch, dinner, lunch, and Sunday Brunch. There is a full bar and live music most nights. Try the five-spice duck breast to leave the taste buds tingling. This would be a perfect spot to take a group of couples.

Location: 112 College St, Omni La Mansion de Rio/ Phone: 210-518-1063

Acenar: Looking for fun outdoor dining and a festive environment? Look no further than Acenar, which serves mainly Latin American, Mexican, and Tex-Mex cuisine. On the weekends their bar stays open until 2am so you only need to do dinner and an evening out in one place. All of the food served is completely original and the average price is about $12 so you have money left to try a variety of unusual margaritas. Try the chipotle-buttered shrimp and top it off with a Mexican chocolate mousse.

Location: 146 E Houston St/ Phone: 210-222-2362

Godai Sushi Bar & Restaurant: Eating all that south-of-the-border food might leave you craving something different. Try Godai's Sushi Bar which is a cheap alternative to fancy Japanese Steakhouses. Come early as the bar area gets filled quickly with people looking to see the chef's create and prepare delicious rolls right in front of them. If you aren't all that adventurous, try the trusted California Roll. Looking for something more exotic, try the Louisiana Roll. Want something not raw? The salmon teriyaki is a pleasure. Make sure to ask for a traditional glass of Japanese beer or if you're group is filling frisky, throw back some Saki bomb shots. Just make sure you aren't planning on driving anywhere.

Location: 11203 West Ave/ Phone: 210-348-6781

Ruth's Chris Steak House: A little more upscale with a business casual dress and higher prices, Ruth's is worth it. They offer everything from choice USDA cuts to seafood and poultry. They also offer nine different types of spuds so if you are a meat and 'tators type of person, you've found your new favorite place. Even if you are a vegetarian there are many food options for you as well. Deserts like a carmel banana cream pie and delectable chocolate cake will send you out the door with a smile on your face.

Location: 7720 Jones-Maltsberger Rd/ Phone: 210-821-5051

"Runner-Up":

The Lodge of Castle Hills: This restaurant made it to the championship because of it's unique dining. The restaurant is a 1920s house with all hardwood and elegant décor throughout. The food matches the ambience with New American cuisine such as fire-roasted pork loin and crusted salmon. Different menus are given at different times of the year depending on what is in season. The price is relatively high, reservations are recommended, business casual dress code, and a full bar are available at The Lodge of Castle Hills. Also available are tasting menus ranging between $45-$75 but it is doubtful with so much basketball going on that you will have time for this experience.

Location: 1746 Lockhill Selma Rd/ Phone: 210-349-8466

"2008 Champion":

Le Reve: A common saying in basketball is to "go big or go home" ... well there aren't many restaurants in the area "bigger" than Le Reve. By far the dressiest and priciest top-10 selection, Le Reve makes you feel like you've taken a jump across the pond to Paris. There are selections of three, four, and five course meals that will be sure to please. This would be the perfect restaurant to go for a romantic night or to celebrate your team's championship win. No liquor is served here but the wine selection is one of the best in the area. Try the Black Angus beef for a sure winner and don't forget your dinner jacket at home. You'll need it at Le Reve.