Nice bar, enjoyed it since I know the history. Service was mediocre but not horrible. One waitress was having a really bad day.

This gets five stars for Texas ambience. In addition to Roosevelt's bullet holes, look for the triangle repair in the bar where they had to repair it after Carrie Nation took her hatchet to it as part of her temperance crusade. Fabulous place to experience San Antonio. read more

While just about anyone may be able to walk into the Menger, I really *got* into the Menger: this cigar-friendly mahogany cave greets with its historical arms open wide, as this was one of Teddy Roosevelt's favorite spots, a fact the hotel's not forgotten, and that you're reminded of via the ample graying photos of the man throughout. For me, a perfect night at the Menger sounds like a glass of single malt, a fine cigar, and the types of conversations that melt into the haze about you, where fact and tall tales intermingle, and where the best stories are told boldly, out loud, and without an ever-present eye toward the clock. And my first introduction certainly won't be my last. read more

Love the history behind the bar. The wood, finishing panels, pictures and taxidermy had me looking at all the details of the bar. Unfortunately I looked a little too close and found way too many gnats, flys or whatever you want to call them. Literally a swarm of them in the corner of the bar. This place needs a serious cleaning. The gnats were so bad that I told my GFs brother not to order any liquor, just bottled beer. We walked out and didn't finish our drinks. Gross! One star for the history. One for the cheap drinks. read more

This is a great bar with great history. They have the memorabilia on the wall and are proud of the old wood and the establishment. It is a little pricey mostly because of the Riverwalk/Downtown area. It's an older crowd which is right up my alley. I like to go to a bar where I can talk and have great conversation and not have to scream over music that is too loud. This is my type of place! read more

Before I write anything, let me write this warning: This IS a smoking bar. And they sell cigars so as to make it especially pungent. You'll be steeped in smoke but also in history. This spot is famed for its connection with Teddy Roosevelt and there are bits of things you should probably already know (like educational placards and whatnot) scattered about. Dark wood, gruff bartender, square cut glassware and men that look like they've been bellied up since old Teddy graced it with his presence. Grab a drink here for the historical value alone. But also make sure to glance up at the giant moose head adorning the wall, have a stiff drink and sprout some chest hair. This is a mans bar. And you're not likely to forget it. read more

Visit the historic Menger hotel. It has an old world feeling with history and photos that tell a ghostly story. The hotel has a horrible nursing home smell to it. The dinning room had a sickening smell that takes over the hotel. A big turn off. We had a fun time in the bar. Service was attentive and is positioned away from the main hotel entrance. Doesn't smell as bad unless you are at the actual bar stand, then expect to smell vomit. Ugh!!! read more

This is a great historic bar. The interior is rustic but beautiful. The history is fascinating - hoping to bump into the great Teddy Roosevelt read more

I made it a point to visit both the hotel and the bar after reading that Oscar Wilde stayed here during his North American book tour... If I made it out to visit his grave at the Pere Lachaise cemetery I had to none the less visit one of the places he adored and spent time at. In a nut shell this place is rad. It has that man cave rich masculant feel to it. The bar has been here since the hotel opened up and exudes so much history. Taxidermied animals gives it almost that lodge hunters vibe as well which was a little scary looking at that massive moose. Ghost. well apparently this place is haunted.. I didn't have any run ins with the other side while having my cocktail but the bartenders have interesting stories. I was a little thrown off when the guy next to us was smoking a cigar. I don't like cigars or the smell of them so we left sooner than expected on our first trip in. They allow that in here. You can also buy cigars here.. In all this place is AMAZING sans the old guy smoking a cigar.. It's a must see while in San Antonio. It's not your typical douchey bar spilling of slutty drunks and lame guys trying to pick you up. It's a very relax sip on drink sort of place! read more

I will definitely be returning here for future San Antonio trips. The bar is located in the historic Menger Hotel, and is oozing with history, the moose head that hangs from on high I am sure could tell some great tall tales from the days of old. You can easily picture Teddy with his rough riders in one of the dark corners making plans while enjoying a strong Manhattan. I love the rustic yet classy dark wood paneling with the historic pictures of Teddy hanging about. The upstairs balcony is a great escape from the hub bub below, and a great people watching spot. The bartender has no menu's, and can do anything it seemed, but specializes in the classics. It felt wrong to order anything but a classic here. I mentioned what I felt like, and out came a well mixed classic drink. Great friendly service in a place full of character. read more

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If you're looking for a traditional bar with great character and good drinks, this is a great option. The evidence from Carrie Nation's visit tells you this place has seen all sorts of fun. read more

Menger Bar was an awesome, beautifully designed bar. Oh, it's also the oldest continually operating bar in Texas. It's been operational, nonstop, since 1859!!! That's craziness, folks. The entire bar area is stunning, dark, cherry (I believe) wood. If it were dirty, it would totally look like a Wild West bar, but it's kept spotless, of course. As if that isn't enough history, this is also the famous bar where Teddy Roosevelt recruited the rough riders.They have a menu with a good selection of classic cocktails. I had both a margarita, which was supposed to be made very traditionally, but unfortunately they were out of their housemade mix. Instead, the barkeep made it with fresh limes instead of triple sec. I suppose that's fairly traditional too. Then I had a manhattan on the 'keeps recommendation. It hit the spot as well. The food menu is small, and the barkeep told me that on a limited timeframe I had told him about, that it probably wouldn't come out fast enough. I appreciated his honesty. I'd like to go back again sometime, or at least visit more places like this. A real gem. read more

If you like history, and you like booze, then this bar is going to be a special treat. For the history aficionado, you'll be pleased to learn that this bar has hosted Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt and his Rough Riders, amongst many other famous people. There are all sorts of knick knacks related to Roosevelt's times spent at this bar on display in glass cases by the door. The bar itself is interesting. It was modeled after British pubs, and as such is dark mahogany wood, with no windows to the street. If you're looking to beat the heat, it's not hard to do in what amounts to a cave. The bar has two levels, but is overall not very large; this leads to a cozy intimate atmosphere lit by incandescent bulbs. Standard beverages are on hand. No draft beers, only bottles. No specials that I was made aware of, nor special bar menu (makes sense given the bar's no nonsense history). Friendly bartender dressed in appropriate attire. This is the kind of place you and your dad (and grandpa) can come in and watch football (they do have TVs) while the ladies are out shopping. read more

Apparently, Teddy Roosevelt recruited some of the Rough Riders at the Menger Bar. That fact alone makes this place worth a visit, in my opinion. Okay, cool ass nostalgia aside...here are some more reasons to visit the Menger when you visit the San Antonio. Have you ever heard the phrase, "drinking like a cowboy?" No? Let me explain. Basically, you're drinking straight liquor. Yep, that's it. So, what do I do? I tried drinking like a cowboy. Emphasis on "tried." (Mind you, it was 11am.) I ordered "The Cattle Drive," which was a glass filled with whiskey...you know...what cowboy's drank on the ol' dusty trail. Well, let me tell you...I'm no cowboy...and I was drunk at 11:30am. The Menger doesn't joke around when it comes to their drinks. They are served quickly and they are served strong. The bartenders were extremely friendly and prompt. As for the overall vibe of the place...I liked it. I liked it a lot. As someone that loves history, I loved all of their military artifacts that decorated the bar. The prices were slightly high, but I expected as much, considering that it was connected to the Menger Hotel. The Menger Bar is a neat place that is worth a looksee based on its' history alone...regardless if you drink or not. read more

Ms. Angela Pena is an amazing bartender! She was so polite and helpful and made outstanding drinks! We had a Berrytini, Margarita and a Mojito. Perfect afternoon cocktail spot! read more

Upon entering, it's quaintness was a surprise. Low ceilings, balcony for max 10 people greatest bartender. And the customers order things like avDos Equis "dressed" which is a salted bottle and limes, which you won't hear of outside these parts. Love the old photos on all the walls of the history of this place. read more

Menger Bar - Old, historic bar - Bars Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

*Ahem* *Wheeze* *Hack* *Cough*.*Gasp* (Repeat ad infinitum) Beautiful bar. But don't think of venturing anywhere NEAR it if you're not a heavy smoker. read more

Stopped in after our little tour of San Antonio. Sat at the bar for a few beers. Had the best Michelada ever. Our bartender, Angela, was so great. Nice, knowledgeable and very friendly! We should have stayed for appetizers! Too bad we're going home tomorrow.... read more

Menger Bar - Best Michelada ever! - Bars Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Dark wood, quiet atmosphere, low lighting...this is the ambiance an old, Texan whiskey bar should have. The Menger Bar delivers this ambiance in spades. As you sit there at a dark table, looking around the room, you can just picture the generations of Texas men who have sat around that same bar conducting business deals with nothing but a handshake...Texas-style. They have a decent whiskey selection. And, don't you dare put ice in it. In this reverent space you need to have your whiskey neat. If all you want is a beer, then just go elsewhere. This isn't some college town beer joint. This is the Menger Bar. You get that? The Menger Bar! If you are going to go, at least bother to do it right! read more

The place where Theodore Roosevelt recruited many of his famous rough riders, this bar and hotel is full of history. Its dark, full of fine old wood furnishings, and has an old Texas ambiance that is very difficult to find elsewhere. Old, dark mahogany, hundreds of years of cigar smoke and fine spirits, wines, and beers, this place is one of my absolute favorites. There can be no better place to have a cigar and enjoy a scotch with a few friends who get the rich, magnificent history that oozes from the very pores of this establishment This is a smoking establishment, and you can expect to find at least one person smoking a big fat cigar while enjoying a beverage, which I found pleasing, but folks who do not care for this should be forewarned. It is not offensive, but adds to the ambiance of old world Texas, which I found was this place's greatest draw. read more

Classy, quaint and rustic. There won't be a huge crowd, but is the greatest spot to have a conversation and a drink...just like Teddy did. The drinks are consistently poured well. read more

Menger Bar - From the second floor - Bars Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

Thoroughly disappointed. Cool interior but strange vibe. Only one local (Texas) whiskey and one Irish whiskey on the shelf. Service was crap too. read more

It's a cool bar with good drinks and reasonable prices. Love the history and the atmosphere. Yes, it's touristy but if you're a tourist...... read more

*WARNING* Do not eat or drink here. One star for the haunted history, Two stars for dark old saloon feel and that's it! I think we saw like 30+ gnats in the bar area. I was seriously grossed out! But so happy we did not order anything but bottled beer. However, I still could not get myself to finish my beer. It smelled of mildew and rotten beer. I say they pull employers in for an overnighter and do a deep cleaning!! read more

Menger Bar - The haunted story of the bar/hotel is fun ... But that's it this place needs a serious deep cleaning! - Bars Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

This bar is cool for the history. Outside for the bar, in the lobby close to the hotel there are displays and things related to the history of the building. But the bar itself is, well just a bar. It's small-ish. Dark. Not tons of seating. Nothing really special. The drinks are decent. read more

Pretty cool bar and intimate and historical. I learned about the etymology of teddy bear from my boss while we were here. Helpful that it was in our hotel. Like a saloon. It's small and dark and the acoustics can be challenging since the downstairs is right under the upstairs - yes that sounds like a duh statement but it's a low ceiling and the upstairs is more like an open balcony seating. Anyhow the drinks are fine, service was good especially the second time when we had a friendly attentive server at the table. It's unique and even though I prefer swanky bars I enjoyed it here. At one point when I peeked in it was hopping and super crowded so I just went to my room and 45 minutes later it was empty. Prolly more of the after conference crowd just grabbing a drink in this historic place and then moving on to dinner. The food menu is pretty small here. I wouldn't come here to eat. Sit and just enjoy being in something historic. read more

This bar is an absolute must-go for anyone visiting San Antonio. The history is significant; it's supposedly haunted by Teddy Roosevelt's ghost. Come for the history, stay for the drinks. They are known for their bloody marys, old fashions, and another cocktail that I cannot remember. All I can say is that it is hands-down the best old fashion I've ever had. And watch out, that is one stiff drink! read more

The history was enough to get me in the door one time. The fifteen minute wait at a four-deep bar (I guess they won't spring for cocktail servers) for a $5 Lonestar that I had to drink by midnight (their closing time) on a SATURDAY night... ain't enough to ever bring me back. Good thing the endless parade of tourists keeps this place open. I guess. read more

This place is cool and a great stop in for a beer when you are hot from all the walking around San Antonio! Great history on Teddy Roosevelt and it's supposed to be haunted too! The bartender was great for me and my hungover boyfriend! Wouldn't mind staying at their hotel next trip through!! read more

We stopped before lunch after our visit to The Alamo. Cameron, our bartender, was awesome. She also makes a wicked Bloody Mary n Manhattan. Doubt we'll be passing thru again, but if u r, u need to stop in n reflect on Teddy.... read more

Great place to get lost My most favorite bar in the US and only second to Mary's Pub and Hardware , Dublin, Ireland read more

Last night was my first time in Menger Bar and I have to say, it is a fantastic place! Sipping Macallan 12 in this bar is just an amazing experience. The only reason I didn't give it a five star is because I wished they have more and better whiskey selection. I recommend to take any tourist here to have a drink after a long day. read more

Lots of History, wood, cigars, and strong drinks. It's a favorite place of many. I don't like it late at night because I am not a fan of smoke. During the day not as busy or smokey. This is a place to check out for sure. At least for the history. read more

The draw of the bar at the historic Menger hotel is definitely the history which you can feel surrounding you there. Allegedly Teddy Roosevelt recruited his Rough Riders here and the place hasn't really changed since then. It's a pretty standard size for a hotel bar, but the dark corners and old wood walls make it feel larger. We were a bit disappointed in the beer selection, only a few types in bottles and nothing on tap, but savoring a Shiner long neck in the corner where Teddy did his recruiting more than made up for it. The bartender was friendly and very patient with all the tourists who popped in for directions rather than stopping for a drink. Come for the history and a refreshing stop after trudging around the Alamo on a hot day. read more

Historic, warm, clubby atmosphere. Enjoyed the warm ambiance, the wood walls and ceiling, the smaller size that makes you feel nestled in a welcoming embrace. Good Old Fashioneds. Only negative: can get quite loud. Fun. read more

Awesome! My kind a joint. Spent a weekend here checking out downtown San Antonio, Riverwalk, the Alamo. We stayed at the Menger and it was incredible. The bar has a lot of potential, it just seemed like they would rather be doing something other than entertaining / serving guests at the bar. Would go back I would just set my expectations a little bit lower. read more

Yes, sigh, Teddy Roosevelt...blah, blah...bullet holes etc. It's a bar. Tourists fill it. They have beer. Food seemed nonexistent. There's a little teddy shrine and the bartender will roll their eyes and point out the bullet holes if you ask. Ask for bullet holes not rolling eyes. The Alamo is next door and is fabulous. They also have bullet holes and I bet teddy recruited there as well. Thankfully nobody mentions that as events worth remembering actually happened there. read more

If you're a fan of American history, the Menger Bar is a must-see destination. After visiting the Alamo next door, stop in for a quick drink and check out the Teddy Roosevelt exhibit. Even if the bar weren't historically interesting, it's still a pretty cool bar--filled with dark wood and interesting characters. Check it out! read more

I really wanted to like this place. I really really wanted to like it. There is the link with Teddy Roosevelt and there is the location right across from the Alamo, all things that should add a mystique to the place. As soon as I walked in and smelled the "dirty bar/pub" smell, you know the one. The smell that signals that you are in an establishment that likes to serve cheap beers to grimy people and take their money $5 bud lights at a time without actually spending anything on upkeep. BL: could be a lot cooler place to hang out. In its current iteration, treading solely on its reputation as a place Teddy R hung out. Doubtful that a Modern Day Teddy Roosevelt would frequent said spot. read more

Had a blast! Great service and even better customers! Dont miss this piece of San Antonio history! read more

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