Mix Nightclub
2423 North St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, TX 78212; Tel. 210.735.1313
This nightclub may not be sexiest place you've ever been, but what the meek environ fails to provide is more than compensated for by the prices. Low-key is the attitude for this St. Mary's nightclub. Anyone looking for a place where the bartender shoots an honest smile and hands you a bill that won't sour your evening will feel right at home at Mix. And if you get the urge to checkout a band, The White Rabbit -- a rampaging habitat for young musicians -- is just across the street.
 

The Menger Bar
204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205; Tel. 210.223.4361 or 800.345.9285
Just a few steps from the Alamo, the Menger Bar -- housed inside the longest continuously operating hotel (of the same name) west of the Mississippi -- opened its doors in 1887. The design replicates the House of Lords Pub in London, but this place has a notable history of its own. It was here that Teddy Roosevelt recruited candidates for his Rough Riders -- the volunteer cavalry serving in the Spanish-American War. In fact, legend has it that an apparition of Roosevelt appears late at night donning his Rough Rider attire and pointing in a gesture of selection to the unfortunate onlooker. The Menger Bar also provides a more satisfying -- and authentic -- taste of San Antonio than the tourist traps opposite the bar on Alamo Plaza.