A River Walk Find: The Fig Tree

The Fig Tree Restaurant is one of my favorite fine dining spots in San Antonio, Texas. It truly stands out among the margarita bars, hotel restaurants and chain eateries that dominate the River walk area.

History:

It is historically referred to as the Gray-Guilbeau House. The building is named for James Gray and French consul Francois Guilbeau who bought the house from Gray in 1853. The Phelps family purchased the home in December of 1970 as their personal residence at first. In 1971 they decided to create the Fig Tree Restaurant and the family has continuously operated the restaurant ever since.

Location:

Just blocks from The Alamo, The Fig Tree is located on the famed San Antonio River walk and offers great views when dining outside on their villa-style terrace that overlooks the River. Make reservations, and make sure to request seating outside on the terrace. I prefer outside because the interior seems a little too stuffy for my tastes, so I always call in advance and make sure to be seated outside.

Menu and Ambiance:

The ambiance outside is a mix of causal and elegant with crisp white linen drape tables and fine china – but still in a comfortable, accessible setting.   The menu is a delightful mix of fine dining mainstays like Prime Rib Eye, Filet Mignon, Prime New York Strip, Beef Wellington, Rack of Lamb, Seared Duck, Salmon, Lobster, Striped Bass along with truffle potatoes and other dedicate sides. The starters and salads are equally enticing  and bring some local flair to the continental cuisine, such as a Roasted Texas Hill Country Quail stuffed with pâté, black truffles, apple cider emulsion (my husband’s favorite). For dessert you can order table side Banana Foster, but we loved the traditional Baked Alaska.

Wine List & Other Beverages:

The wine list is good but frankly a little pricey for today’s savvier wine consumers. Although still marked up too much, I found the French whites to be the best buy when you are looking for a bottle to share with the table. They also have a full bar (and make a killer martini) if you would prefer to go that direction or start your dinner with a cocktail. Next time you are in San Antonio try out the Fig Tree and make a reservation (210.224.1976) on the terrace. You will not be disappointed!