There are so many great places to live in San Antonio that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Kuper Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community
Photo by Onward Group
Agent Ryan Hoskins.
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Born and raised in San Antonio, real estate agent Ryan Hoskins possesses an intimate knowledge of its diverse neighborhoods and communities — especially those surrounding the Pearl District.
“I have lived in this area of the city for more than a decade and have watched the Pearl grow and develop into the wonderful cultural, food, events, and shopping hub that it is today,” he says. “You are within walking distance to a plethora of entertainment, restaurants, and activities. Not only that, but you are moments away from downtown San Antonio, connected by the River Walk.”
What Ryan also loves about the Pearl District is its modern, eclectic vibe that’s also steeped in history.
“The neighborhood is filled with residences old and new,” he says. “Who doesn't love a beautifully restored, 100-year-old Craftsman-style home that's just down the street from a local bar or restaurant? Or a brand-new townhome that offers contemporary style and convenience?”
Price points are also incredibly diverse, according to Ryan, making it accessible for anyone to find a great place that meets their budget.
Outside of work, you might find Ryan playing soccer and golf, watching Formula 1 races, riding his motorcycle, practicing photography, and exploring the many exciting restaurants and bars in San Antonio with his wife, Caroline, who is the senior director of marketing for Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty.
Ryan offered up some of his personal favorites about life in the Pearl District. Here's his guide to the area:
Where to eat & drink
“While many may know about Ladino, the modern Mediterranean grill at the Pearl, what you might not know about is their intimate, Moroccan-inspired bar upstairs,” says Ryan. “It’s a great place for happy hour or a nightcap.”
He also recommends sushi destination Nineteen Hyaku for its beautifully designed, luxurious interior and 12-course omakase and robatayaki grill. "The secret about this place is that they have a great daily happy hour at the bar from 5-7 pm, with a great view of the dining room," Ryan says.
In the Jefferson Bank building next-door, The Newstand is a new coffee shop offering gourmet sandwiches, coffee, snacks, wine and a vintage retail shop. It's a great spot to hang out and work, Ryan shares, and you can even nod to its name and read a newspaper while you're there.
Pullman Market, the newest addition to the Pearl. It’s a full-on celebration of food with a specialty grocer, five quick eateries for grab-and-go items, and four distinct restaurants for a sit-down meal and a craft cocktail. “Pullman Market has a little something for everyone that lives or visits the area,” he says.
Where to play
“Head to the Weekend Market at the Pearl, showcasing local produce and services, or head over to Brackenridge Park for a relaxing picnic and walk,” says Ryan. “Brackenridge just celebrated its 125th anniversary and is often referred to as the most culturally significant park in the U.S. You can even battle against par at the Brackenridge Park Golf Course while you're there.”
He also suggests embarking on a bike ride on the city’s vast bicycle network through the Pearl District, the parks, and downtown.
“At night, take in a concert at the exceptional Stable Hall, a state-of-the-art music venue located in the heart of the Pearl featuring local, regional, and nationally known artists,” he adds.
What to see
“Venture over to the vibrant entertainment district of St. Mary's Strip, where energy and nightlife are the main course with local bars and restaurants,” says Ryan.
But there are so many other incredible places to see that are all just a step away from the neighborhoods surrounding the Pearl.
Included on Ryan’s shortlist? The San Antonio Zoo, The DoSeum (great for kids!), the San Antonio Museum of Art (located in a complex that once housed the Lone Star Brewery), the Witte Museum (for a convergence of nature, science, and culture), the tranquil and historic Japanese Tea Garden, and the beautiful San Antonio Botanical Garden.
Where to live
“Within the Pearl District, the surrounding neighborhoods include the historic Tobin Hill and Government Hill along with Mahncke Park and River Road, where there’s a variety of townhomes, condos, single-family homes, and multifamily homes,” says Ryan. “Each neighborhood has its own unique type of home, some of which are historically significant.”
A prime example of a property in the area that Ryan recently sold is 511 E. Dewey Place. It’s a charming Craftsman bungalow in Tobin Hill that was originally built in 1923. “It boasts a perfect blend of timeless charm, modern conveniences, and stylish updates,” he says.
For a completely different style, a contemporary townhome at 102 Tendick Street, Unit 104 is privately listed in the vibrant Mahncke Park neighborhood.
“The home exudes modern elegance with stained concrete floors, vaulted ceilings, and upscale finishes,” says Ryan. “The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining.”
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Ryan Hoskins works and plays in Pearl District. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email ryan.hoskins@sothebysrealty.com, or call 210-852-5240.
