San Antonio/ Food & Drinks
Published on October 29, 2018
The 5 best spots to score burgers in San AntonioFattboy Burgers & Dogs. | Photo: Josh A./Yelp

Got a hankering for burgers?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top burger sources in San Antonio, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to venture when cravings strike.

1. Papa's Burgers

Photo: Cleveshia R./Yelp

Topping the list is Papa's Burgers. Located at 709 Enrique M Barrera Parkway, it's the highest rated burger spot in San Antonio, boasting five stars out of 194 reviews on Yelp.

On the menu, expect to see the Mom's Special (American cheese, sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, lettuce and sandwich bread), the El Caliente (pepper jack cheese, sliced jalapeƱos, lettuce, sliced tomatoes, onions and pickles) and the Chili Burger (beef chili, onions and pickle). (See the full menu here.)

Malthus T., who reviewed it on October 18, said, "What can I say about this place? Three words: the best burgers. The place seems to be a little sketchy, but there is a magician behind the grill! The burgers are well seasoned and cook to perfection."

2. The Esquire Tavern

Photo: The Esquire Tavern/Yelp

Next up is downtown's The Esquire Tavern, situated at 155 E. Commerce St. With four stars out of 2,065 reviews on Yelp, the lounge and traditional American spot, serving burgers and more, has proven to be a local favorite.

Burgers include the Bison Burger (organic bison, remoulade, pickled red onion, lettuce and white cheddar on a sesame bun), the Wildcat Burger (with grilled pineapple, American cheese, lettuce, red pepper jelly and habanero aioli on a sweet roll) and the Lamb Burger (with mint, herb feta, tomato chutney, tzatziki and pickle on a sweet roll). (See the full menu here.)

Constantine B. said, "Great drinks and knowledgeable staff. The burgers are amazing! The bar is a little dark, but that's okay since the menu and drinks are great. Awesome unique food selection and close to the River Walk without the touristy feel."

3. Fattboy Burgers & Dogs

Photo: Joshua L./Yelp

Dellview Area's Fattboy Burgers & Dogs, located at 2345 Vance Jackson Road, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the spot to score burgers, hot dogs and ice cream 4.5 stars out of 423 reviews.

The burger spot has its signature Fattboy burger, plus the Slimmboy, which is a smaller version. You can also score the Fattchick (a chicken sandwich) or the Fattdog. Pair your meal with some fries or onion rings and wash it all down with a beer. (See its menu here.)

Pamela V. wrote, "This was seriously one of the best burgers I have ever had! No little machine-processed patties here. Excellent quality food and great service. It's a very small place and they make do the best they can. While I was there, lots of loyal customers with to-go orders."

4. Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar

Photo: Caitlyn S./Yelp

Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar, a wine bar and New American spot that offers burgers and more located downtown, is another high-traffic go-to, with four stars out of 1,295 Yelp reviews. Head over to 207 N. Presa St. to see for yourself.

For burgers, you've got the Devil's River Lamb Burger with serrano fig jam, triple brie, rocket, sweet grilled onions and sambal mayo; and the Zinc Burger with smokey cheddar, Parmesan tuiles, spicy tomato aioli and bibb lettuce. It also serves sandwiches, pizzas and more. (Check out the menu here.)

Monica C., who visited it on October 4, said, "Zinc Bistro is my favorite place in town. The Zinc Burger has to be the best burger in San Antonio. The only way I'd go there and order something different from the menu would be if I went there for the previous meal in the same day."

5. The Cove

Photo: Melissa H./Yelp

Finally, over in Five Points, check out The Cove, which has earned four stars out of 1,155 reviews on Yelp. You can find the vegetarian and gluten-free spot, which offers burgers and more, at 606 W. Cypress St.

Burgers include the Texas Burger with refried beans, corn chips, grilled onions, cheddar, avocado, spring mix and salsa; the 09er with goat cheese, pesto aioli, roasted red peppers, spring mix, tomato and onion; and the Gouda Burger with grilled onions, chipotle mayo, smoked gouda, spinach and bacon. (View its full menu here.)

Michael T. wrote, "The Cove is fantastic. From their beer selection, to their sustainably sources delicious food, to the fantastic live music and open mic nights, this place has it all. "