Best Lunch in San Antonio

Not sure why this place is named Bandit BBQ - perhaps because it takes you by surprise just how great it is. Known for their craft made sausages, which can change from week-to-week and include some really fun and incredibly delicious flavors, such as pork sausage stuffed with mac-n-cheese and bacon, they're really isn't anything here that's not scrumptious. You know, all the good stuff! Bandit is a more modern version of a barbecue joint, and do it their way all the way! A great place to grab lunch or dinner, they offer a variety of sandwiches, from burgers to pulled pork. Their turkey sandwich, piled with tender moist smoked turkey and topped with smashed avocado and a special sauce practically melts in your mouth. The burger, too, has been getting some high praise for its cheesy meaty goodness. The brisket is spot on too, and if you're feeling daring, you can ask to add some to your burger. Sky's the limit at Bandit! The environment is stylish and, bonus, located next to a coffee shop.

Augie's barbecue has been a San Antonio staple for many years now. It's so delicious it repeatedly sells out, so make sure to get there early to get your favorites. Now, when it comes to favorites, Augie's has all the classics. He has mastered the art of Texas BBQ and that includes the sides, which are scratch made and, simply, exceptional complements to the barbecue. With succulent brisket, pulled pork, sausage, chicken and more perfectly smoked and ready to make your mouth water meats, Augie's is our #1 go-to for traditional Texas 'cue. As this is also a steakhouse, they offer affordable, hand-cut ribeyes and NY strips as well. The restaurant is spacious with fun décor you might expect. They also have a new dedicated bar with a long list of specialty bourbons and an outdoor patio where you can enjoy that brisket and bourbon on warm Texas evenings. Make sure to also check out Augie's other location, Augie's Barbed Wire Smoke House.

In a town abundant with breakfast tacos and other Tex-Mex, thankfully, Jamaica Jamaica comes to the rescue with a unique alternative of traditional Jamaican cuisine and Caribbean soul fusions. Dee and her husband, Chef Angello, have been serving up classic Jamaican dishes, such as Jerk Chicken and Curry Goat Stew, since 2011 and have developed a loyal following of patrons looking for something different to satiate their appetite. The focus is on delicious Jamaican comfort food that's authentic and something everyone can enjoy. Chef Angello was born in Jamaica and learned to cook from his mom and sisters. He's been in the kitchen since he was seven years old, where he first learned to make his favorite dish of Brown Stew Chicken. The soul influence comes from Dee, who was born in Georgia. Jamaica Jamaica is open for lunch and dinner on Tuesday through Saturday and special events, such as live music throughout the month.

Bakery Lorraine started out as a hole in the wall on Grayson street. Now at the Pearl Brewery in a much larger, more upscale location, they have earned a reputation as the cafe to go for the most delicious sandwiches and pastries. There is nothing more comforting or homey than freshly baked pastries made from scratch, and Bakery Lorraine puts a sprinkle of TLC on everything they make. Jeremy and Anne met while working for Thomas Keller at Bouchon Bakery in the Napa Valley, California and have been baking together ever since. They honed their skills in different kitchens around the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to San Antonio in the summer of 2010. In 2011 they established Bakery Lorraine, through which they wish to share their craftsmanship with you. Every item that they put out is handmade with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Bird Bakery is like a little bakery heaven. The staff is overwhelmingly friendly, encouraging you to try the wide variety of samples, from carrot cake, salted peanut butter cups, and Mexican chocolate brownies. Make sure to ask which items are gluten-free, as this is not a dedicated gluten-free bakery but comes with a variety of wonderful options. They have an amazing honey cheesecake made with Greek yogurt, but it tastes just as decadent and delicious as any cheesecake you've every tasted. Of course they have an array of cupcakes from the Elvis cupcake with peanut butter frosting to the Lemon Blueberry Pancake cupcake. Yum! Bird Bakery also serves lunch and dinner in a chic atmosphere.

Cascabel is one of the best-kept secrets in San Antonio and sports a wonderful outdoor patio with umbrella-covered tables. It's different than every other Mexican restaurant in the city because it features regional specialties from interior Mexico. You won't find the ubiquitous refried pinto beans here or even flour tortillas. Cascabel serves everything with thick yet soft homemade corn tortillas and refried black beans that have an exceptional amount of flavor. If you want to try something unique, order the Birria, which is a rustic goat stew. If you want to play it safe, order the Huaraches, which are corn tortillas smothered in refried black beans, shredded cabbage, your choice of meat, a spicy red chile sauce and sour cream. Cascabel will stimulate your palette without over-stimulating your bank account!

Hotel Emma showcases its culinary prowess in multiple ways, but it's the on-site restaurant, Supper; located along the northern extension of the San Antonio river walk, that is their best representation of what good food is all about. This farm-to-table restaurant almost dares you to not like veggies. Their menu is largely vegetarian, but each dish is so flavorful you don't miss the meat. Of course, that's not to say they don't also feature some amazing proteins, but they certainly don't rely on them. When they do feature dishes like their Duck Confit, it's balanced with a refreshing herb salad that accentuates the duck but doesn't weigh you down. A meal at Supper is an utter delight with beautiful views of the river from their outdoor patio, and the simple feeling that you're somewhere special. In truth, you are and all of San Antonio knows it!

If you want some equally scrumptious and authentic yet unique Chinese street food, you're in luck! Locals know Ming knows her thing! She's also known for her booth at The Pearl Farmers Market. Ming's has developed a following over the years of local foodies who can't get enough of Ming's noodles, steamed buns with pork belly and housemade sausages. It used to be located in the Yard inside a train boxcar but has since expanded to a new location but still offer the same great cuisine in a relaxed setting. Check out the egg noodles with fresh veggies and a sesame dressing or the sweet potato noodles in a Sichuan broth. Ming's food hits all the notes from sweet to savory and umami too. Soon you'll be wishing there was a Ming's in your own hometown!

If you're looking for a local hot spot that makes good pizza with great ingredients, look no further than Stella Public House, located at the Blue Star Arts Complex in the Southtown Arts District. Locals love it for their farm to table pizza, craft beer and cool neighborhood vibe. The staff is incredibly friendly and accommodating and it's always satisfying supporting small businesses when they're committed to sourcing the best quality ingredients from local farmers. The pizza is artisan wood-fired pizza baked in an Italian Modena oven using oak and pecan wood. You can build your own or choose from an array of tasty options, such as the Southtown Pepperoni, made with chipotle tomato sauce, jalapeno-cheddar pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions and black olives. Not surprisingly the salads are as delish as the pizza. with homemade dressings and fun ingredients like poached pears. Get ready for a great nosh!

CommonWealth is one of the most charming cafes in the city, with more than one location. This one is located in the upscale Alamo Heights neighborhood and is the original location, situated inside a beautifully renovated 1920s home. It comes complete with live chickens in a serene outdoor setting, which is perfect entertainment while you're enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee or homemade croissant. CommonWealth is dedicated to serving the finest cup of coffee and signature lattes, as well as authentic French pastries which are made from scratch each and every day. They also make gourmet breakfast and yummy lunch plates. For lunch, some favorites include the Turkey Avocado or Tomato Mozzarella sandwiches, not to mention salads, soups and even smoothies. Breakfast options range from the classic Croque Madame to fluffy French omelets. The good news is you can't go wrong here!