Acenar Mexican Restaurant: A Taste of San Antonio's Culinary Heart

Acenar Mexican Restaurant stands as a vibrant testament to the rich and diverse culinary landscape of San Antonio, Texas. More than just a dining spot, Acenar offers an immersive experience into the heart of Mexican flavors, blending traditional recipes with innovative culinary techniques. Located in the bustling heart of the city, Acenar has become a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike seeking authentic Mexican cuisine in an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. Let’s explore the enticing menu that makes Acenar a must-visit culinary landmark.

Starters to Ignite Your Palate (Antojitos)

The “Antojitos,” or appetizers, at Acenar are designed to awaken your taste buds and set the stage for a memorable meal. From classic comfort food to inventive seafood creations, there’s a perfect starter for every preference.

Fire Roasted Salsa & Chips: Begin your Acenar experience with the quintessential Mexican starter – freshly made chips accompanied by a vibrant, fire-roasted salsa. The smoky depth of the salsa perfectly complements the crispiness of the house-made chips. Priced at $5.
Classic Bean & Cheese Nachos: A crowd-pleasing favorite elevated. Acenar’s nachos feature a generous bed of crispy tortilla chips loaded with refried beans and melted cheese. For heartier appetites, you can add chicken, beef, or carnitas for an additional $4, or shrimp for $5. Starting at $13.
Queso de la Casa: Indulge in a rich and flavorful cheese fondue, the Queso de la Casa. This melted cheese delight is enhanced with chorizo, pico de gallo, and a touch of chile arbol for a spicy kick. Served with house-made chips for dipping, it’s perfect for sharing. Priced at $12.75.
Appetizer Sampler To Share: Can’t decide? The Appetizer Sampler is the ideal choice. Enjoy a curated selection of Acenar’s most popular starters, including savory chicken flautas, flavorful beef alambres, and cheesy quesadillas. Served with refreshing pico de gallo and creamy guacamole, it’s designed for sharing and exploration. Priced at $21.
Jicama Shrimp Tacos: For a lighter and more refreshing start, try the Jicama Shrimp Tacos. Gulf shrimp are expertly sautéed and served on crisp jicama “tortillas” instead of traditional corn or flour. A tangy tamarindo sauce and crispy leeks add layers of flavor and texture. Priced at $14.75.
Queso Flameado / Baked Cheese: Another cheesy temptation, the Queso Flameado is a baked cheese dish featuring a blend of Chihuahua and Monterey Jack cheeses. Mushrooms, chorizo, grilled onions, and peppers are incorporated for a deeply savory and satisfying appetizer. Priced at $14.25.
Ostiones / Oysters: Experience a unique twist on oysters with the Ostiones. Buttermilk-fried oysters are served atop crispy yucca chips and drizzled with a jalapeño honey mayo for a sweet and spicy contrast. Charred pineapple adds a touch of tropical sweetness. Priced at $13.75.
Alambres / Mini Skewers: These marinated beef skewers, known as Alambres, are a flavorful and fun appetizer. Drizzled with a vibrant chimichurri salsa and served on a bed of refreshing cabbage lime slaw, they offer a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Priced at $14.25.
Ceviche / Lime Marinated Fish: For a truly refreshing and zesty starter, the Ceviche is a must-try. Lime-marinated fish is served with house-made chips and slices of creamy avocado, creating a light and flavorful dish perfect for warm days. Priced at $15.00.
Guacamole for two (made tableside): A true Acenar experience, the guacamole is prepared fresh right at your table. Using ripe avocados and fresh ingredients, this tableside guacamole is a vibrant and flavorful starter, served with house-made chips. Priced at $15.50.
Chicken Tinga Empanadas: These half-moon-shaped pastries are filled with a savory blend of chorizo and tinga-style shredded chicken. Served with jalapeño salsa, cabbage lime slaw, and avocado, the Chicken Tinga Empanadas offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Priced at $13.00.
Copitas: Experience the rich flavors of chicken stewed with chipotle, chile arbol, and tamarindo in the Copitas. Served in lettuce cups with jicama, cucumbers, jalapeno salsa, and toasted nuts, this appetizer is both flavorful and refreshingly light. Priced at $12.75.
Ahi Tuna Tostada: A sophisticated and flavorful option, the Ahi Tuna Tostada features fresh ahi tuna with a piloncillo garlic soy glaze, jalapeños, avocados, and microgreens. The combination of flavors and textures makes this tostada a standout starter. Priced at $14.25.

Soups and Salads: Light and Flavorful (Ensalada Y Sopas)

Acenar’s “Ensalada Y Sopas” section offers lighter options that are still packed with flavor, perfect as a starter or a lighter meal.

Ensalada de la Casa / House Salad: The House Salad is far from ordinary. Spicy mixed greens are combined with tomato, avocado, and goat cheese, all tossed in a tangy onion sherry vinaigrette. Priced at $10.95.
Sopa Azteca / Tortilla Soup: A comforting and flavorful classic, the Sopa Azteca features grilled chicken in a chile pasilla and tomato-spiced broth. Topped with cubed cheese and crispy tortilla strips, it’s a satisfying and warming soup. Priced at $10.50.
Mexican Caesar Salad: A Tex-Mex twist on a classic, the Mexican Caesar Salad features romaine hearts, cotija cheese, and chile croutons, all dressed with a distinctive chipotle Caesar dressing. Add chicken for $4 or shrimp for $5 to make it a heartier meal. Starting at $11.25.

San Antonio Favorites: Signature Dishes (Favoritas de San Antonio)

The “Favoritas de San Antonio” section highlights Acenar’s signature dishes, showcasing the best of Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, all served with Mexican rice and refried beans unless noted otherwise.

Ácenar Combo: Experience a taste of everything with the Ácenar Combo. This plate includes a cheese enchilada topped with chile con carne sauce, your choice of beef or chicken fajita, guacamole, and pico de gallo. It’s a perfect introduction to Acenar’s diverse offerings. Priced at $23.
Cochinita Pibil / Roasted Pork: A Yucatecan specialty, the Cochinita Pibil is achiote-marinated pork, slow-roasted in banana leaves until incredibly tender and flavorful. Served with cilantro rice, black beans, and escabeche vegetables, it’s a dish rich in tradition and taste. Priced at $19.75.
Pechuga de Pollo con Chipotle/Chipotle Chicken: Grilled chicken breast is elevated with a creamy chipotle cream sauce in the Pechuga de Pollo con Chipotle. Accompanied by spinach con queso, roasted corn rice, and black beans, it’s a comforting and flavorful entrée. Priced at $18.25.
Mole Poblano de Pollo / Chicken Mole: Indulge in the complex flavors of Mole Poblano de Pollo. Tender boneless chicken breast is simmered in a rich and authentic mole poblano sauce, a traditional Mexican sauce made with chilies, chocolate, and spices. Priced at $17.50.
Vegetarian Relleno: Vegetarian diners will delight in the Vegetarian Relleno. A broiled poblano chile is stuffed with julienned vegetables, covered in roasted tomato salsa, Monterey Jack cheese, and crema. It’s a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option. Priced at $16.50.
Entomatadas / Fried Stuffed Tortillas: The Entomatadas feature chicken and sweet potato-filled tacos, fried to crispy perfection and topped with a roasted chile tomato sauce and queso fresco. Sweet potato hay adds a unique textural element. Priced at $16.50.
Lomo de Puerco / Pork Tenderloin: The Lomo de Puerco showcases grilled adobo pork loin with a duo of mole sauces – mole Guerrero and mole verde. Served with a sweet potato and spinach tamale, it’s a sophisticated and flavorful dish. Priced at $21.50.
Camarones a la Diabla / Spicy Shrimp: Spice lovers will appreciate the Camarones a la Diabla. Garlic and chipotle-buttered shrimp are served over cilantro rice and roasted cream corn pico, creating a fiery and flavorful seafood dish. Priced at $29.50.
Chile Relleno de Res/ Stuffed Pepper: A classic comfort food, the Chile Relleno de Res features a souffle-coated poblano chile stuffed with savory beef and topped with ranchera salsa. Priced at $17.
Huachinango a la Talla/ Snapper Adobo Style: Seafood enthusiasts will enjoy the Huachinango a la Talla. A grilled filet of snapper is seasoned with guajillo rub and cilantro pesto, served with cilantro rice and sautéed vegetables. Priced at $29.75.
Pescado Veracruz: The Pescado Veracruz features pan-seared fillets of tilapia in a classic Veracruz sauce of tomato, olives, and capers. Served with cilantro rice and microgreens, it’s a light and flavorful seafood option. Priced at $28.
Cabrito: A Texan delicacy, the Cabrito is young Texas goat, steam-roasted and served with ancho salsa ranchera, Mexican rice, and refried beans. This dish highlights regional flavors and traditional cooking methods. Priced at $29.

Enchiladas: A Mexican Staple

Acenar’s “Enchiladas” section offers a variety of enchilada styles, each served with Mexican rice and refried beans unless otherwise noted.

Enchiladas de Mariscos: Seafood lovers will enjoy the Enchiladas de Mariscos. Corn tortillas are filled with sautéed shrimp and crab, topped with roasted tomato sauce and Monterey Jack cheese. Served with white rice and black beans for a lighter accompaniment. Priced at $16.
Tres Enchiladas: For those who want to sample a variety, the Tres Enchiladas offers a tasting of three signature house enchiladas: Queso, Mole, and Verde. It’s a great way to experience Acenar’s enchilada expertise. Priced at $16.75.
Enchiladas Verdes: Chicken-filled tortillas are bathed in a tangy tomatillo sauce and topped with Monterey Jack cheese, corn, and crema fresca in the Enchiladas Verdes. Priced at $16.
Enchiladas de Mole: Another mole variation, the Enchiladas de Mole feature chicken-filled tortillas covered in a rich mole de poblano and Chihuahua cheese. Priced at $16.50.
Enchiladas de Queso: A classic done right, the Enchiladas de Queso are cheese enchiladas topped with chile con carne and even more cheese. A comforting and cheesy favorite. Priced at $15.50.
Vegetarian Enchiladas: Vegetarian enchilada lovers can enjoy corn tortillas stuffed with vegetables and topped with roasted tomato sauce. Served with white rice and black beans, they are a flavorful and meat-free option. Priced at $14.25.

Tacos y Chalupas: Casual Mexican Favorites

The “Tacos y Chalupas” section features casual Mexican favorites, perfect for a more relaxed dining experience, served with Mexican rice and refried beans unless otherwise noted.

Short Rib Tacos: Indulge in the rich flavors of the Short Rib Tacos. Guajillo-braised short ribs are served in tortillas with cabbage lime slaw. Priced at $20.
Crab Tinga Tacos: The Crab Tinga Tacos offer a delightful seafood option. Gulf blue crab is sautéed with tomato, onion, chipotle, and avocado, topped with crispy sweet potato hay. Priced at $19.75.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Another shrimp taco option, the Grilled Shrimp Tacos feature sautéed shrimp with pico de gallo and chipotle butter, accompanied by cabbage slaw and avocado. Priced at $18.50.
Tinga Chicken Chalupa: The Tinga Chicken Chalupa features chicken sautéed with spicy Mexican sausage, served on a crispy chalupa with cabbage lime slaw, avocado, and chile arbol salsa. Priced at $16.75.
Oyster Tacos: Experience a unique taco with the Oyster Tacos. Chicken-fried oysters are paired with charred pineapple, micro greens, and a jalapeño honey mayo for a sweet, spicy, and savory combination. Priced at $17.
Tacos a la Parrilla: Customize your tacos with the Tacos a la Parrilla. Choose grilled beef, chicken, or pork, served with cilantro, onion, and fresh pineapple for a classic and customizable taco experience. Priced at $16.25.
Fish Tacos: The Fish Tacos feature grilled fish with jalapeño honey mayo, cabbage slaw, and pickled red onions. Served with white rice and black beans for a lighter meal. Priced at $16.50.
Chalupas Compuestas: A classic chalupa platter, the Chalupas Compuestas include bean and cheese chalupas, guacamole, and your choice of beef or chicken. Priced at $16.
Mushroom and Calabacita Tacos: Vegetarian taco lovers will enjoy the Mushroom and Calabacita Tacos. Grilled mushrooms and Mexican squash are combined with cilantro, pickled onion, chile, and tomatoes. Served with white rice and black beans. Priced at $15.25.

Fajitas y Mas: Sizzling and Shareable

The “Fajitas y Mas” section offers fajitas and other shareable platters, perfect for groups and those looking for an interactive dining experience.

Poquito de Todo / Little Bit of Everything: For the ultimate sharing experience, the Poquito de Todo is a must. This platter features skewered shrimp, carnitas, grilled marinated beef, spicy sausage, and charbroiled chicken, served with chiles and cebollas asadas, charro beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Available for one, two, or four people. Starting at $25 for one.
Arrachera / Skirt Steak: Classic fajitas are featured in the Arrachera. Choose grilled beef or chicken, served with grilled onions, charro beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo. Available for one or two people. Starting at $24 for one.
Carnitas / Crispy Pork Tips: Enjoy crispy marinated pork with the Carnitas. Served with grilled onions and peppers, charro beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo, it’s a flavorful and satisfying fajita option. Available for one or two people. Starting at $24 for one.
Hongos y Calabacitas/Mushrooms & Squash: Vegetarian fajita lovers can indulge in the Hongos y Calabacitas. Roasted mushrooms and squash are served fajita-style with grilled onions, peppers, black beans, and house-made corn tortillas. Priced at $17.25.

Postres: Sweet Endings

No Mexican meal is complete without dessert. Acenar’s “Postres” are large enough to share and house-made by their pastry chef.

Mousse de Chocolate Mexicano / Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in the rich and decadent Mousse de Chocolate Mexicano. Silky cinnamon-spiked mousse cake is served with bananas and whipped cream. Priced at $10.75.
Caramel Flan: A classic Mexican dessert, the Caramel Flan at Acenar is creamy and rich, served with whipped cream and berry compote. Priced at $10.75.
Pastel de Tres Leches / Three Milk Cake: The Pastel de Tres Leches is a moist sponge cake layered with sweet milks, topped with cajeta, berries, and melon pico. A truly decadent and traditional dessert. Priced at $10.75.
Ácenar Bread Pudding: Warm and comforting, the Ácenar Bread Pudding is a buttery croissant soufflé with golden raisins, pecans, and cajeta, served with vanilla ice cream. Priced at $10.75.
Churritos: Enjoy the fun and delicious Churritos. Mini churros are coated in cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate, cajeta, and berry sauce for dipping. Priced at $10.75.
Helados y Sorbetes/Ice Cream & Sorbets: A refreshing end to your meal, the Helados y Sorbetes offer a variety of flavors. Choose from Vanilla and Chocolate Ice Cream served with candied pecans & cajeta, Pineapple-Coconut-Habanero Ice Cream, or Mango, Lemon & Strawberry Sorbet with fresa fresca. Priced at $10.75.

Acenar Mexican Restaurant offers a true taste of San Antonio, blending authentic Mexican flavors with a sophisticated dining experience. From flavorful appetizers to satisfying entrees and decadent desserts, Acenar provides a culinary journey through the heart of Mexico. Visit Acenar to experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality for yourself.

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Acenar Mexican Restaurant: A Taste of San Antonio’s Culinary Heart