We've all been there: That “just one drink” suddenly becomes another two — and a round of Jello shots that has you reaching for the nearest carb. Why not fortify the stomach with a little forethought? These six bars pair stiff drinks with satisfying bites that keep Sunday’s last call from turning into Monday morning misery.
Hanzo
After a brief hiatus, the Broadway hot spot is back and more happening than ever. Pair a genmaicha and cinnamon-scented highball with bites like pork gyoza, fried Brussels sprouts, and chicken katsu. And keep the maki coming. We like the 210 roll with tuna, avocado, green onion, and a squiggle of spicy mayo.
Oak Hills Tavern
Sure, the atmosphere is hardly fine dining, and there’s nary a white tablecloth in sight. That doesn’t mean this dive doesn’t have a fine palate. Try duck confit tacos sprinkled with sherry glazed onions, an ooey-gooey melt stuffed with Hot Cheetos-breaded shrimp, or a Brazilian-inspired pizza drizzled with chimichurri. It’s kinda chic to pair it with a High Life.
Tapas and sangria at Toro Kitchen + Bar.Toro Kitchen + Bar/ Facebook
Toro Kitchen and Bar
San Antonio’s tapas standard-bearer knows a Rioja is lonely without bringing a few friends along. The solomillo is perfect for red meat enthusiasts eager to indulge without a steakhouse bill, while cochinita pibil tacos won’t produce that after-dinner waddle. The tapas list is so extensive, it warrants several visits.
The Mezcaleria at Mezquite
With its stunning interior, this Pullman Market haunt may seem like a place to preen before dinner. But it also has a hefty menu of bar bites and bowls. Order a second frozen marg, then inhale house-fried chips served with a duo of zesty green and orange salsas. Pro tip: the bar and lounge area serves late-night bites from 10 pm-midnight. Nosh on tacos, flautas, guac, or nachos before going mimis — or as a prelude to the club.
Break another little pizza my heart.Backyard on Broadway/ Facebook
Backyard on Broadway
An underrated spot on the Broadway corridor, this beer garden-style bar dishes out killer pub grub. Nothing is too fancy to wash down with a White Claw. Order a 10-inch pepperoni pizza and forget to share. The eatery also has bargain hot dogs, grilled cheeses, loaded nachos, and a mouth-stretching sandwich stuffed with “thicc” chicken strips.
Jue Let
Owner Jennifer Dobbertin specifically designed this Pearl jewel box as the spot to hit after dinner at sibling restaurant, Best Quality Daughter. Whether networking during a midweek happy hour or belting Journey during a karaoke sesh, order a round of snacks. Grandma's Chex mix gets an exciting kick from a generous dusting of Tom Yum powder, while the grilled umami pimento cheese sando gets some bounce from Pullman Market bread.
