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Ácenar

Ácenar, 146 East Houston, San Antonio

4.3
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCELLENT
4.3 out of 5 (130 Ratings)
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0.2 miles Boeing Center at Tech Port
About Ácenar
The Spotlight on Ácenar

Bold Mexican Flavors in the Heart of San Antonio

Ácenar is a vibrant, modern Mexican restaurant located right along the River Walk in downtown San Antonio. Just a short walk from several major concert venues, this stylish spot pairs bold, contemporary flavors with colorful riverside views. With its sleek decor, high-energy atmosphere, and creative take on traditional dishes, Ácenar is a go-to for both locals and visitors looking to spice up their night.

Why Concert-goers love it

Location, location, location—Ácenar is less than a 10-minute walk from some of San Antonio’s most popular live music venues, making it an ideal stop before or after a show. The restaurant offers quick, attentive service without sacrificing quality, so you won’t feel rushed while still making it to your seat on time. The buzzing atmosphere and riverside patio make it a fun, energetic place to grab a bite and a cocktail before the music starts.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for shareable plates and margaritas
  • Solo travelers wanting a flavorful meal in a lively setting
  • Couples planning a romantic evening with great food and a show
  • Fans who want to keep the pre-show energy going with upbeat vibes
  • Budget-conscious music lovers—Ácenar offers quality at reasonable prices

What People Say

Diners rave about the unique menu, with standouts like duck carnitas, shrimp tacos, and roasted poblano grits. Many highlight the stylish riverside patio and how the location is perfect for event nights. The margaritas get consistent praise, and the overall vibe is described as fun, modern, and welcoming. Excellent service and good portion sizes round out the positives.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests mention that the interior can get a bit noisy during peak hours, which might not be ideal for those looking for a quiet meal. A few noted that wait times can be longer on weekends, so it’s smart to make a reservation if you’re on a tight pre-show schedule.

The Bottom Line

Ácenar blends bold flavors, fast service, and a lively atmosphere—making it a perfect launchpad for a concert night in downtown San Antonio.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Contemporary Mexican
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Opening Hours
Dinner
Tue-Thu, Sun 11:00 am-9:00 pm
Fri, Sat 11:00 am-10:00 pm
Bar
Tue-Sun 11:00 am-9:00 pm
Brunch
Sat, Sun 11:00 am-2:00 pm

Ácenar Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Acenar is #52 of 5230 things to do in San Antonio

3 of 5 stars3 out of 5
By: kim021, Detroit
Tue 3 Jun, 2025
l Average at best. Service was great, but food was nothing special. I got the enchilada trio and they were very small with hardly any sauce. Not the famous Tex-Mex I was hoping for.

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Dina S, Florida, New York
Thu 17 Apr, 2025
l Our waiter Caleb was extremely friendly and offered some great suggestions. Everything was fantastic, from the margaritas to the tableside guacamole and entrees. Excellent choice!

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: S405DGbrianj, Portland, Oregon
Thu 27 Mar, 2025
l We had a very solid meal, all the Tex Mex standards, with a few twists. On the Riverwalk, some places appear to coast more on their location. Acenar service was solid, space had a good feel, and...

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Ácenar 146 East Houston, San Antonio