1. What are the best craft beer bars and bottle shops within walking distance of the Riverwalk? 2. About how much is cab fare from the Riverwalk to Freetail? Thanks, friends.
http://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/canadian-coming-to-san-antonio.91183/#post-1411923 http://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/beers-for-my-hotel-fridge.133985/#post-1944721 http://www.beeradvocate.com/community/threads/san-antonio-in-early-may.1496/#post-14667
I'd recommend Luke or Filling Station. Stella Publick House would be a reasonable cab ride, as would Friendly Spot*. If you really want to try Freetail and have a few hours to spare, I would recommend going by bus. The 97 bus to The Rim will take you within 5 minutes walking distance of Freetail (schedule here). The commute will take up a large chunk of your day though. *Not a popular recommendation around here due to their pricing, but they undoubtedly have the largest selection in the downtown vicinity.
You know, I'm generally a frugal guy, so price is important to me. That being said, I've never had a bad experience there at the Friendly Spot in over a dozen visits there (I'm from DFW). I would put their selection up against nearly anyone else's in Texas as far as rare beers go. Three guidelines: 1. Ask for the prices...no sticker shock later! I agree that some of their prices are waaaaay off (small Duganá pours for $12, Avery Devil Series for $20/bottle, SABB for ~$15/bottle). However, some of their prices are actually reasonable (they do have fire sale/deep discount beers)...you just have to ask, which leads to... 2. Go with a group...because when you do happen to find a hidden gem like a certain 12.5% BA Barleywine in a bomber for $18, you don't necessarily want to take that to the dome alone. Unless... 3. You want to take bottles home...something that other places because of their liquor licenses won't allow. Cheers and Craft Beers! Justin
