I really enjoyed the experience, but I didn't realized that the Magic Time Machine is now geared towards families. When I went to the MTM in Austin back in the 1970's, it was not. I don't remember seeing children there. My boyfriend finally started liking the experience more as the evening progressed. read more

The food was delicious and they had a great variety of characters going around that added to the atmosphere! The food and drinks came out with a very little wait! read more

Don't know where to spend your birthday? Come here! I left with my cheeks HURTING from laughter. I loved it so much my kiddos loved it more asking everyone for signatures! Such a friendly environment! Huge thank you to NACHOOOOOOOOO, BARBIE & ACE "who was our server". Thank you very much!! read more

We did the hold your place in line but do have to admit it was slow and chaotic at the front desk and we still ended up waiting in line with a hungry 3 year old. Had a great time in Spoungebob's house. Food was good. read more

The food is great.Nothing special about it though.The staff is so kind and fun, I spent half the time there chatting with the staff.The rooms are all so colorful and fun and each have their own design. read more

This is an awesome experience for the kiddos! Ambience takes you back in time. The staff really keep the vibe exciting and fun! Birthday here birthday there... every where is a happy birthday song! I'd recommend for adults a burger and salad bar. There's face painting, balloons and a game room. My grandkids had a blast! Wonder which character we'll get next time??? read more

Magic Time Machine - Cup over flow!!! - American Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

The experience was amazing, enjoyed our Barbie waitress. The food is average, and we celebrated a friends birthday! read more

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My family and I went for the first time on a Friday evening to celebrate the 18th birthday of our twins. We had a wonderful time. The staff was entertaining and we were laughing most of the night. If you plan to visit keep in mind it's more about entertainment than the food. I ordered the grilled chicken parmigiana. It could have used more marinara and cheese but we definitely plan to visit again. read more

Magic Time Machine - Grilled chicken parmigiana - American Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

This place was amazing! Love how the staff (even crazy busy) always had time to stop to the littles for pictures and to say hi!! read more

Magic Time Machine - American Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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We loved this restaurant in Dallas. But the San Antonio one was disappointing, to say the least. Everything we came there for went wrong. The staff were not engaging with our little 7 year old grandson. No one was funny or very friendly. The costumes were pretty lousy. A table next to us full of 6 adults got the photographer to come to them as well as balloon people. Even though we had a 7 year old excitedly waiting for them, they didn't give us a second look. Never came and talked to us. They rushed us in and out and it wasn't even busy. The food was just barely "okay." Our server, "Elastagirl," didn't even make an effort to play the part. Maybe we just got lucky that time in Dallas, because if I had gone to this restaurant first, I'd never recommend it or want to come back. read more

I had really only heard such "meh" reactions for magic Time Machine before we came to visit and I was pleasantly surprised. We really had the best time when we visited. Velma was our waitress and she was so fun. And honestly all the other characters came and interacted with us too and made it a really fun night. They made it extra fun for my husbands birthday, and they gave extra attention to a 1 year old with us and made it fun. The food was actually better than expected, but let's be honest you're not coming here just for the food. Everything was pretty reasonably priced also. I would 100% come back. read more

This place is so fun, I love coming here for an event. My recommendation, just get the steak... this place is a classic but don't risk getting chicken or seafood. The ribeye is honestly very good. read more

14 from work gathered to send off a dear friend on her way to bigger and better things. What a fun night. Our cheek muscles hurt from laughing so hard read more

I went to Magic Time Machine in 1973. My family went to San Antonio this Dec as a special time with family. We went to Magic Time Machine because we thought it would be a fun experience. We were SO disappointed. The restaurant was musty, dirty, unkept and really disgusting! The staff very friendly and fun but were sloppy, and slovenly dressed. Not to blame them but overall standards of the whole restaurant was low effort and quality! The tables were old and probably have all kinds of germs. The salad bar was plastic containers set into the ice (kind of). The steaks were good but for $30 were on the very high side for the quality. I would strongly NOT recommend going to this overpriced restaurant!! read more

Took our grandkids here while we were visiting San Antonio . It was nostalgia all over again as we had taken their parents there as well when they were young . We had adorable Barbie and she kept the kids entertained . Food was good , but ambiance was excellent . Special treat ! read more

Nacho Libre was our server tonight. We had a fantastic time and enjoyed our experience and delicious meal. read more

Magic Time Machine - Huge ass iced tea - American Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

This is perfect for school-aged kids and kids in costume is even better. This is an easy pick for a celebration. The wait can be long. No reservations. Ambiance is crazy. Service is great. Food is okay. read more

This is a last resort place to me. It's definitely run down on the outside. Inside is old and dingy. Fits the theme. We went to try their magic potion for the kids. They mixed their drinks and then brought them out so there was no "smoke" off their drinks. We didn't check out anything within such as the games, face painting or balloon person. Hostess was really nice. She wasn't dressed up or we didn't think she was. Don't know who the waiter was dressed as but other staff was dressed as Spider-Man, Dory and others. Waiter's dry humor was rough but he tried. The spinach dip was ok. The apple martini tasted like it had a 100 proof liquor in it. Strong drinks aren't an issue but also wasn't trying to die drinking that one. Again if you literally have no other options of places in San Antonio to go then this is your place. read more

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We had a wonderful time at The Magic Time Machine. It is an eclectic and very unique place to eat dinner. The White Rabbit was our server. He kept us entertained and even sing singed the rules for the salad car. The food was good. The salad car had a variety of options for all vegetarians. I would highly recommend this place for dates or with your kids. Sooo fun! read more

Magic Time Machine - Salad Car - American Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

A complete makeover is required. Out dated and I think it's out of business too. I never see any cars or activity going on here. Was great 30 years ago. read more

Does anyone come for the food ? Though they claim it's a steak house and that their food is quality, it's just ok, It's the entertainment you expect and that failed for us. We came before doors opened and there was already a long line waiting outside. We heard there was an hour and a half wait to come in. The place is kind of run down outside. The inside is the same but it's dark and full of many artifacts so it is well hidden. It is a maze inside, dark, narrow hall ways and cozy rooms made like little houses or huts. (If you are claustrophobic do not com) Has great potential in the idea but overall not worth a return trip. Characters were more familiar to older kids and adults, some were in costume but you had no idea who they represented. A couple just looked like leftover scraps of material from a flea market. There is no music except for the occasional Happy Birthday song and no entertainment but supposedly our server. Sounded more rude than funny. You pay extra for everything . They tell you to go to the waiting room and get your face painted but that costs extra $. The balloon person finally came to our table at request, and that was extra too. See the cost sheet in photos. I don't mind paying them as artists but it is assumed the entire thing is covered under one roof. The restrooms were kinda disgusting and again, old, and hard to find. You easily can get lost so don't let your kids walk around alone, Overall. there were 5 of us,one child. Disappointment in the lack of vegetarian entree options and the rest of the food was ok,they specifically tell you they will not make exceptions in the menu. We easily spent more than $150 and none of us ordered steak or the more expensive entree featured. We had ribs, hamburger, pasta, fish. We had a memorable night, that is all we can say positive. It is not cheap, our young grandson got candy from the game machines ($ extra) and a balloon sword, so he was happy. Oh, the cocktail drinks tasted virgin, no alcohol, and the free bread was doughy and this was after we waited a very long time to get any bread at all. The salad bar was decent but you couldn't reach foods to the other side so you have to line up again to get those salads. Long lines to the small salad bar, it's on Top of an antique car so it's awkward to reach every item, Not seeing us here again. read more

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This place is a blast from my Austin past. So fun for the family and the food isn't bad. I had my brother's birthday here and the staff were very accommodating considering he is deaf and blind in one eye. He had a great time celebrating even with a special dessert at the end. read more

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Always fun:) Food has improved over last few visits as well/ Experience greatly depends on the enthusiasm of the server read more

Fantastic! We have been to San Antonio many times over the years and have never found this gem! So glad we have found it now! We had a really great time! They did have a mix up with my reservation and we waited almost 2 hours before we were able to be seated but other than that it was a great experience. Kids 8 and 10 loved it, dad and I loved it, food was great! The whole vibe of the restaurant was so fun! We will definitely be going back! read more

This place is outdated, dirty, and overpriced. It can be a fun experience, depending on the server.

If you're going for the experience and entertainment, I definitely recommend. But, if you're going for the good food and service, you'll be disappointed. It's all about the experience. read more

I have been to both locations of the Magic Time Machine; Dallas and San Antonio. Both are consistent in what they offer in every way. I will start off with the ambiance; ultimately this is what you're paying for. It's silly, quirky, weird and most importantly fun. From the bizarrely eclectic decor, the servers dressed as various fantasy characters, it feels as though you've entered into Alice's Wonderland. Even the layout and seating arrangements are a maze. Ask where the bathroom is and a staff member will lead you to it. Depending on where your party is seated, finding your way back to your seat can be challenging. The layout adds to the fun quirkiness; so long as there is no emergency such as a fire requiring a fast evacuation. But both locations have been standing for some time so chances are you'll be fine. The menu is limited and the food is average. All menu items come with a basic, all-you-can-eat salad bar. Salad bar choices are basic but good and there's enough of them that you can make a good salad and change it up a bit. I've been here three times, and every time I've enjoyed the salad bar more than the menu items themselves. I've thought of asking if it's possible to just order the salad bar. I haven't asked yet so I don't know the answer but it's not presented as an option on the actual menu. This time I ordered the beef brisket which came with a weird, sort of sweet and tangy sauce. Since BBQ is not their specialty, and us Texans have been spoiled by a number of great BBQ joints like the Hard 8 and Terry Black's, it's not fair to be overly critical ordering the brisket. So I'll leave it at that. There was a side of sautéed mixed veggies and mashed potatoes that tasted of the instant variety. We also ordered a sausage-stuffed mushroom appetizer. The white sauce they put over it all was seasoned nicely and the mushrooms were a decent size, however there wasn't much to the sausage filling at all. If you go just for the food, you will no doubt be dissatisfied with the pricing, as it is not cheap; especially considering the quality of the fare. But you're paying for the overall experience. We save this place for maybe a visit around Halloween. This last time it was dinner after attending the Paranormal Circus. So it all really depends on what you're looking to get out of your dining experience. read more

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First time back in years. We went for a family dinner with relatives who have never been and had a great time. The white rabbit was great, funny and made the experience fun! I'm read more

I had the ribeye. Food arrived fast and was tasty. The waitress Velma was a hit! We were there for a birthday and she made it memorable!!

I've been enjoying this place since I was a child in the 80s. I now bring my family and friends. I'm so glad they're still here and can't believe they don't have competition for this market. We love it and characters (wait staff) are always fresh and really seem to have a good time, which makes all of us have a good time. You'd expect you're paying for atmosphere, but frankly we always really enjoy the food as well. read more

I love this place, because of all the different designs and I also love how the workers act, and the food is amazing too, it's pretty expensive but it's definitely worth it. read more

Service was Impeccable. We had such a fun server. He was was punny and very prompt and efficient dealing with our group. Inside the place is super cool and it's like going back in a time machine, however, it is a bit outdated and needs a thorough cleaning. The food left a lot to be desired. And for that, I cannot recommend this restaurant. I will say their drinks are a lot of fun and not bad read more

This place was so fun! We had Nacho Libre as our waiter he was great. It's a unique experience and the food was actually really good as well we all liked our food. Definitely recommend for a fun night out with the kids read more

So much fun celebrating with my two piano students, their little sisters & Mom, at the Magic Time Machine; for their two year piano lesson anniversary! I'm soooooo proud of them! They earn wooden note rewards for each day they practice, plus extras for playing for other people etc. The two older girls have been practicing Disney tunes; so going to the Magic Time Machine was the perfect choice. We were served by Snow White and met lots of other fun characters! They all behaved like perfect Princesses! I love teaching these girls. read more

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Always a fun place to visit. Not as outgoing or as funny as they used to be, but the staff is still fun. Kitchen was very accommodating, food very good. The restaurant doesn't look like much on the outside but inside is very eclectic and quite the experience. read more

Fun place to take the grandkids too! Took my grandson there the his 6th birthday, the entire family had a blast !

Ok food very dated for the time. May have been a cool place in 1970 but old for 2025.

First time here and was not disappointed. Found this place thanks to yelp. Upon arrival we first noticed there was lots of people of all ages, which in my book is a good thing. Surprisingly they got us a table within 20 min of arrival. Before we get into the food details let me talk about the place. It is designed with many different movies, times, cartoons, or other inspirations. It is fun for both adults and children. All staff is wearing a costume that ranges from Scooby-Doo to forest Gump to ace ventura. I've included some pictures for reference. We had ace ventura pet detective as our waiter and he did an amazing job. Now let's talk about food. We ordered the Roman orgy which is supposed to feed 4. It has meat, chicken, potatoes, and fruit. It was a lot of really good food. We definitely had lots of food left at the end of our meal. Now that doesn't mean we didn't have dessert. We ordered a cheesecake that had some strawberries. Everything was delicious. read more

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Summary The Magic Time Machine is an older restaurant with an unusual ambience that it is really more than just a place to go for dinner. It's more of a dining "experience" that's fun for kids. This place has been around for some time and longtime locals like myself know it well. For many, it occupies a far-out place in our formative memories as a venue for birthday parties and special nights out. After spending time here recently for my 43rd birthday, after a handful of visits as a kid, there is one thing I know for sure: there is indeed a certain kind of magic to be found within these walls. The basic premise for the maze-like "funky nostalgic" experience is that all servers embody a character from pop culture and although it is a bit musty and warm inside, if you can get past this, this may be the place for you. Food We ordered mozzarella sticks and stuffed mushrooms. These items were both served warm but the taste of these items were less than pleasing. The mushrooms semed to be a bit gamie and "off". The potion drinks at $6 a pop tasted tragic but they made the Things happy (these potions are essentially a smoky soda and syrup concoction). In genreal, this is the type of place that folks should visit if only once and make some memories. read more

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From start to finish it was a wonderful dining experience! Dory was our host, she made getting to the table fun. Goku (from Dragon Ball Z) was our server, hands down the best server I've had since pre-pandemic! It will be a lifetime memorable experience for my boys, which I'm thankful for. Food was better than expected. My filet was cooked perfectly, the ribs were a great portion, fried shrimp and calamari weren't over cooked. Bar drinks were good, kid's magic bubbly potion drinks were fun. Honestly 10 out of 10 all the way around. read more