News Summary
Esquire Tavern, the oldest riverfront bar in San Antonio, marks its 85th anniversary this December. Known for its historic charm and the longest wooden bar in Texas, the tavern features a diverse cocktail menu and unique dishes that capture the spirit of the city. Under the ownership of Christopher Hill since 2008, Esquire Tavern continues to thrive with renovations and new concepts, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.
San Antonio
The Esquire Tavern, the oldest riverfront bar located at 155 E. Commerce St., is celebrating its 85th anniversary since opening its doors on December 5, 1933, just a day after the end of Prohibition. This momentous occasion highlights the tavern’s enduring legacy as a cornerstone of San Antonio’s vibrant River Walk.
Recognized for hosting the longest wooden bar in Texas, which spans an impressive 109 feet of solid oak, the Esquire Tavern offers a cozy atmosphere designed to foster conversation without the distractions of loud music or overwhelming crowds. With an inviting layout that includes booths, tables, a downstairs bar featuring two lounges, and a riverside balcony, patrons can enjoy a unique blend of history and comfort.
The bar is more than just a place to gather; it boasts a diverse cocktail menu alongside 12 Texas draft beers. Signature drinks such as the Bexar Hug—a refreshing mix of blanco tequila, guava, lime, and sparkling wine—are among the highlights patrons can experience. The food menu also features an array of flavorful dishes, including South Texas quail legs, pork belly tortas, mussels, and a bison burger with various toppings.
Throughout its history, the Esquire Tavern has had only four owners, with the current owner, Christopher Hill, taking over in 2008. After undergoing renovations in 2011, the tavern was updated to enhance elegance while preserving its historical charm. The establishment has garnered two nominations for Outstanding Bar Program from the prestigious James Beard Awards, solidifying its reputation as a noteworthy destination for affordable drinks that appeal to a varied clientele over the decades.
The rich history of the Esquire Tavern includes tales of gunfights, illegal gambling, and even ghosts, capturing the intrigue of both locals and tourists alike. Recently, the tavern expanded its offerings with the introduction of Downstairs at Esquire, an intimate bar concept that features boutique libations. This new addition transformed a space that had been vacant for a decade and emphasizes craft cocktails and a carefully curated selection of agave spirits, with renowned Beverage Director Houston Eaves at the helm.
As the Esquire Tavern looks ahead to the next 85 years, it remains committed to upholding its status as a standard-bearer of bar excellence in San Antonio, inviting both new generations and longtime fans to experience its unique blend of history and hospitality.
FAQ
When did the Esquire Tavern open?
The Esquire Tavern opened on December 5, 1933, the day after Prohibition ended.
What is unique about the Esquire Tavern’s bar?
The tavern features the longest wooden bar in Texas, measuring 109 feet of solid oak.
What types of drinks and food are offered at Esquire Tavern?
Esquire Tavern offers a wide cocktail menu, 12 Texas draft beers, and a food menu that includes items like quail legs and bison burgers.
Who currently owns the Esquire Tavern?
The current owner is Christopher Hill, who acquired the tavern in 2008.
Key Features of Esquire Tavern
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 155 E. Commerce St., San Antonio |
| Opening Date | December 5, 1933 |
| Bar Length | 109 feet, longest wooden bar in Texas |
| Cocktail Offerings | Signature cocktails and 12 Texas draft beers |
| Food Menu Highlights | Includes South Texas quail legs and bison burgers |
| Renovation Year | 2011 |
| Current Owner | Christopher Hill |
| New Concept | Downstairs at Esquire, intimate bar with boutique libations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Texas Highways
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- San Antonio Current
- Google Search: Esquire Tavern
- San Antonio Express-News
- Google Scholar: San Antonio Restaurants
- San Antonio Magazine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio Bars
- Eater Austin
- Google News: San Antonio Taverns
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
