Overview

The hokey name and checkered plastic tablecloths belie the mouthwatering (and pricey) steaks, chicken and seafood at this San Antonio institution. The Barn Door runs its own butcher shop, and every aged cut is tender and juicy. This steakhouse is huge and its atmosphere is casual, with pictures of horses and cowboys telling the story of old Texas. It's equally suited to a business lunch, a first date or a family night out. If you find yourself waiting for a table on the weekend, wander into the bar and check out the horse racing memorabilia. At lunch, try a tenderloin sandwich or a chicken-fried rib eye steak. At dinner, the six-ounce Lady's Filet and the 14-ounce Gentlemen's Ribeye is most tempting. The restaurant also serves a great selection of seafood, chicken, chicken livers, pork chops and quail. If you're dining with a good friend, pour some extra-garlicky Green Goddess dressing on your salad.