San Antonio, Texas is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food. And when it comes to seafood, this city does not disappoint. With its close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, San Antonio is home to some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood in the country. And for those looking for a unique dining experience, downtown San Antonio is the place to be.
What is a Raw Bar?
Before we dive into the best seafood restaurants with raw bars in downtown San Antonio, let's first understand what a Raw Bar is.A raw bar is a section of a restaurant that specializes in serving raw or lightly cooked seafood. This can include oysters, clams, shrimp, and other shellfish. The seafood is typically served on ice and accompanied by various sauces and condiments.
The Best Seafood Restaurants with Raw Bars in Downtown San Antonio
Now that we have a better understanding of what a raw bar is, let's take a look at some of the best seafood restaurants in downtown San Antonio that offer this unique dining experience.1.Bohanan's Prime Seafood and Steaks
Located on East Houston Street, Bohanan's Prime Seafood and Steaks is a fine dining restaurant that offers an upscale raw bar experience. Their raw bar menu features a variety of oysters from both the East and West coasts, as well as other fresh seafood options like shrimp cocktail and ceviche.The restaurant also has an extensive wine list to pair with your meal.
2.Ostra
Ostra, which means "oyster" in Spanish, is a seafood restaurant located in the Mokara Hotel on the River Walk. Their raw bar menu includes a selection of oysters, clams, and shrimp, as well as a seafood tower that is perfect for sharing. Ostra also offers a variety of cooked seafood dishes, making it a great option for those who may not be a fan of raw seafood.3.The Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Tavern is a historic bar and restaurant located on the River Walk. While they are known for their craft cocktails and burgers, they also have a raw bar menu that features oysters, shrimp, and ceviche.The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is a great spot to grab a drink and some fresh seafood.
4.Biga on the Banks
Biga on the Banks is an upscale restaurant that offers a unique raw bar experience. Their raw bar menu includes a variety of oysters, as well as other seafood options like tuna tartare and crab claws. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and offers beautiful views of the San Antonio River.5.The Palm
The Palm is a classic steakhouse located in the heart of downtown San Antonio. While they are known for their steaks, they also have a raw bar menu that features oysters, shrimp cocktail, and crab claws.The restaurant has been around since 1926 and has become a staple in the San Antonio dining scene.
Why You Should Try a Raw Bar
If you've never tried a raw bar before, you may be hesitant to give it a try. But there are many reasons why you should step out of your comfort zone and experience this unique dining experience. First and foremost, raw seafood is incredibly fresh and flavorful. When prepared correctly, it can be a true delicacy. Additionally, raw seafood is a great source of protein and is low in calories, making it a healthy option for those watching their diet. But perhaps the best reason to try a raw bar is the experience itself.Sitting at a raw bar, watching the chefs shuck oysters and prepare your meal right in front of you, is an experience unlike any other. It's a great way to try new and different types of seafood and expand your palate.
