A Way To The Heart

Review №1

Rating: 5

This was our first time visiting this place. We had been to mixtli In the same train car years ago. This place gives early years mixtli Vibes but not just because it is in the same location. The beauty of the Latin food that was being represented is that it s not expensive ingredients. The ingredients of most Mexican, central American, Caribbean dishes are fairly cheap, and then the quality is reflected in the process of cooking and that is what a way to the heart and mixtli (Especially the earlier versions of mixtli ) highlight. All nine dishes were a hit I won t review the actual dishes since they will be rotating off next week But nine for nine is a good ratio (Even our last visit to mixtli was amazing but there were one or two dishes that did not blow us away) While I love the rotating Seasonal menu aspect I hope that they will incorporate their mole In a recurring way. In a city where most of the Mexican food is really good, 99% of the mole Is really bad and this is a very good representation of a delicious Mole. From a pure pragmatic side, this place is a little over half the price of a dinner for two at Mixtli. Last time we went to mixtli it was almost $600 For the dinner for 2 With the standard wine pairings.. Last night bill for us was about $340 After tip They don t have a liquor license so they had three small mixed drinks that were donated by the chef and they allow you to bring your own bottle of wine and have appropriate stem wear. So that saves money the chefs do most of their own serving and bussing with one assistant. And the chefs describe their inspiration and ingredients at each dish is brought out Obviously I made lots of comparisons between this place and mixtli bc the Inspiration are obviously similar. At the core, it is taking simple, cheap ingredients and making them complex and sophisticated by how the chefs cook them. Both do it well and I m happy that San Antonio has two options like it Honestly, we ve only been to mixtli a few times Because the price point feels like you need to save up to go there (and it s totally worth it when you do) But this price point seems a little closer to what you would spend for a good meal at most of the nice Pearl restaurants, At a price that is a splurge, but not quite as shocking:)

Date: a week ago

Review №2

Rating: 5

San Antonio is truly lucky to have a restaurant like this. The food was extremely tasty, thoughtful and well portioned. It was complicated and yet made with simple/fresh ingredients. The descriptions of each dish with the global context and historical references made it even richer! We will definitely be back! Can t believe this has been there for a few years and we have just experienced it. What a wonderful restaurant! Thank you to the three chefs who served us last night it was a personal and remarkable experience! Wonderful anniversary dinner!

Date: 3 weeks ago

Review №3

Rating: 5

My husband and I enjoyed a beautiful anniversary dinner tonight. The food was delicious and unique. The presentation was beautiful. Service was excellent. We loved the atmosphere of the seating area. So many fine dining restaurants can get very noisy, so this was a perfect change of pace. The owners are very passionate about each dish and really put their hearts into each course. Thank you so much!

Date: a month ago

Review №4

Rating: 4

Visited here during restaurant week (you still pay the standard $125/pp rate during restaurant week) as my friend and I took the opportunity to try one of San Antonios fine dining offerings. The highlight of the evening is the staff they really make an effort to create a genuine connection and share about the dishes as youre trying them. The pace of the meal was good and the intimate venue is a fun time. The menu had some serious highlights like the ox tail dish, lengua, and the coconut desert. Keep in mind you wont be eating A5 waygu here, but they take several cheaper cuts of meat and really elevate them. If I were to go back, I would probably skip the drinks they offered. The first, a tequila sunrise shot wasnt too special and was too sweet. The second was a also too sweet and the glassware was awkward to drink from. The last drink was very very good but so overpowering I tasted it the whole rest of the meal until I went home and brushed my teeth. The first would be better as some kind of white or sparkling wine, the last should be served probably after the remaining courses because it truly was delicious. The opening and closing courses were amazing, Id eat 10. Now the atmosphere is the part that I think drops the fine dining experience. While I understand and appreciate the intimate train car environment, watching people wash dishes the whole night is distracting and not a vibe. It really took away from the whole experience and I would recommend waiting until the night is over to wash up and keep the dirty dishes out of sight for those eating. I dont think thats too much to ask for. Overall a pretty good experience!

Date: a month ago

Review №5

Rating: 5

Delicious food. Thoughtful. Intimate.

Date: a month ago

Review №6

Rating: 5

I eat around the city, it s my hobby and I enjoy it. Finding places like A Way to the Heart are just truly fascinating. I will admit hearing they do dishes from around the world sounded a bit ambitious to pull off, but Chefs David & Diego truly hit it out of the park. Not one dish missed, every one was well presented, and the flavors were truly amazing. I highly recommend this place for an intimate date night or a couples celebration dinner. It s truly an amazing culinary experience that we need to see more of in the City of San Antonio. Well Done Chefs!

Date: a month ago

Review №7

Rating: 5

This is one if not the favorite fine dining restaurant in San Antonio. We have been going since they first opened up and make it a point to go back when we are back in town. Chefs are all talented and super fun to talk to. Highly recommend!!!

Date: a month ago

Review №8

Rating: 5

A great place for an intimate dinner. Diego was an awesome host/chef that made the experience magnificent. For was great. I will be back!

Date: 2 months ago

Review №9

Rating: 5

Chef Diego blends flavors together beautifully. This is an intimate tasting experience with a maximum of 12 people. The service and food was exceptional.

Date: 2 months ago

Review №10

Rating: 5

Date: 2 months ago

Review №11

Rating: 5

A Way to the Heart is a must experience San Antonio treasure! My husband and I loved the food, the chefs, and the ambiance. We will be going back again & again!!

Date: 2 months ago

Review №12

Rating: 5

Our experience was great. Every course was delicious and took us on a culinary journey. While each course was relatively small, after 9 courses we left full, but not to the point of being uncomfortable. The atmosphere was great, and it feels like everyone there is able to be creative to make interesting and delicious dishes. We will definitely be back to try another menu.

Date: 2 months ago

Review №13

Rating: 2

The food overall was great. Not fantastic, but definitely above San Antonio s average. Unfortunately, despite asking how to pay so we could leave, we waited 30 minutes for one person to carry around the single card reader in the restaurant from table to table, having the same 5-10 minute conversation with every other table in the restaurant before letting us pay. We just wanted to leave and were held hostage.

Date: 3 months ago

Review №14

Rating: 5

The lunch options are great!

Date: 3 months ago

Review №15

Rating: 5

This is the best restaurant in San Antonio and it isn t even close! The food and the atmosphere are sensational! Worth every penny!

Date: 4 months ago

Review №16

Rating: 5

Such an amazing experience to go with an equally amazing food! Definitely recommend! Portion sizes are perfectly in line with this type of culinary expertise. I was satiated to perfection. Unfortunately the negative reviews dont understand this. Food

Date: 5 months ago

Review №17

Rating: 5

Tiny portions, huge flavors. Tiny unique spot, huge presence in culinary! Chef was on point, what a fabulous experience and trip through South American cuisine!

Date: 5 months ago

Review №18

Rating: 5

What impressed me the most about this dining experience was the passion the chefs had for their creations, the head chef was especially expressive and so incredibly gracious. This restaurant offers a 9 course tasting menu with two wine pairings and a cocktail parceled out to complement the dishes. You can bring your own bottle of wine as well for a nominal corking fee. We brought a bottle of white wine and they provided a bucket of ice for us to keep it cold which was very thoughtful. The tables housed the serving utensils on the side which were placed in the table before each course so no guess work involved on which fork to use, plus there was room for you to store your purse as well so no need to hang it on the back of your chair. Each course was decadently flavorful. Every bite was a sophisticated treat and each course was amazing in its own unique way. We enjoyed the South American menu when we went but they change the menu every 3 months to a different theme. My fiancé and I keep talking about what a great experience we had. I m hooked and am excited to see what creative and delicious adventures they have in store.

Date: 5 months ago

Review №19

Rating: 5

Took my fiancé here to celebrate his birthday and the experience was amazing. It was also amazing to see the Chefs work in the kitchen, they are very detail oriented. Reminded me of artists working on masterpieces. The food was superb! The staff were amazing and very accommodating. This restaurant is definitely on our favorites list. Dietary restrictions: We don t eat pork and we annotated that in the reservation. They accommodated our requested by substituting or removing the pork of 2 of the dishes for us.

Date: 5 months ago

Review №20

Rating: 5

We had an amazing dinner with family that was beautifully curated and thoughtfully designed and presented all with a nod to the region of Africa. The chef and staff were kind and knowledgeable and obviously passionate about their pursuit of the culinary arts. The experience is unforgettable. Dietary restrictions: My specialty allergies were asked about and the appropriate adjustments so that I could enjoy the dish instead of simply leaving me out of the course.

Date: 6 months ago

Review №21

Rating: 5

One of the most amazing dining experiences I ve had to date. I had no idea what to expect when I previewed at the menu for the 9 Course Tasting Menu of Africa . Days later and I can t stop thinking about the food, service , and the overall presentation of each meal. Food is most definitely a way to the heart and each dish was presented with precision and care. The intimacy of the experience was also a plus . The most Perfect dinner to end my first trip to Texas .

Date: 7 months ago

Review №22

Rating: 4

This was definitely a unique and memorable dining experience. The carefully crafted 9 courses were very tasty, however the portion size of each dish were extremely small, especially for the $250 total cost of the experience. We left still feeling hungry, so we went to ANOTHER restaurant to eat more

Date: 8 months ago

Review №23

Rating: 5

WOW! I am having trouble finding the words to describe this fantastic experience. Not only was the food amazing, but the whole ambiance and experience was awesome. David and his crew were extremely welcoming. You never felt rushed, like you would in a lot of these types of experiences. The preparation and care of every bite of food was fantastic. I also loved that I could bring my own wine. Definitely a must place to go to when in San Antonio.

Date: 8 months ago

Review №24

Rating: 5

A Way to the Heart is a truly unique experience. It s a 9 course prix fixe TASTING experience. Each course is small by design, but by the time you complete your 9 courses, I promise you will be full. Each course is inspired by one of the chefs/owners who share their inspirations before serving each table. Three paired alcoholic drinks are included and you can also bring your own bottle for a pouring fee. This is *THE* place for a very special occasion or an unforgettable date night. It is THAT awesome. The restaurant is located inside a restored railroad box car. It may not look like much on the outside, but the inside is charmingly dark, quiet, and romantic. Watching the chefs at work adds to the overall experience. They change the menu every quarter, so I won t describe the food in detail other than to say it is mighty tasty (and each item has a UNIQUE twist these guys are not copy cats). In 2023, the theme for each quarter was based on a geographic part of the world. For instance, Europe, Asia, South America, Oceana, etc. Reservations are a must! There are only 8 or 9 tables for two. There is absolutely no way a written review can do this place justice. It s an experience you must live to truly appreciate. The interesting and romantic atmosphere, combined with the outstanding food, makes this restaurant unforgettable!

Date: 9 months ago

Review №25

Rating: 5

Its an intimate culinary experience. The food is prepared and served by those creating the menu. Each dish has a story and significance to the chefs which adds to the experience. The menu changes every quarter. We enjoyed the Oceanic menu from 2023. We intend to go back.

Date: 9 months ago

Review №26

Rating: 3

This was our second time returning to a way to the heart and first since new management. Every course in the 9 dish tasting menu is like a culinary journey through a different region, in our case Oceania. Each dish is specifically thought out and delicious. 3 of the dishes are paired with wines but we would have preferred the mixed drinks as in the past The only gripe we had with the food is how small the protein was in each dish. One of the courses was 8 small cubes of fruit and 1 even smaller piece of ceviche. The sea bass was also good, but once again, it was only one bite. The highlight was absolutely the wagyu beef. It was a hearty portion towards the end. The desserts were gorgeous and beautifully presented. Overall. The waiting staff was amazing and personable but the whole experience unfortunately left me slightly disappointed and hungry with portion size. The presentation of certain dishes though was absolutely immaculate. The 8 dollar charge for coffee at the end of the meal wasnt conveyed and kind of left a sour taste in our mouths as a hidden charge. We probably wont be back at this increased price point, but still a nice date night idea nonetheless.

Date: 9 months ago

Review №27

Rating: 5

I can t say enough good things about A Way to the Heart. Every experience we had from the moment we were greeted outside of the restaurant to the food, wine, and service were outstanding. This fine group of humble gentlemen chefs truly love what they do and are excited to share their stories and talk all things food. You get a detailed explanation of every dish and they are happy you tell you anything you want to know! It s more creative than your typical fine dining menu and definitely worth a trip to go eat here. We came for the first time at the start of their anniversary menu, the theme was Oceania. There were so many interesting yet familiar flavors from some of the places we ve traveled to in that region. We had so much fun and want to tell everyone we know about this special place! I only wish I took pictures!

Date: 10 months ago

Review №28

Rating: 5

One of our favorites and the third menu. Congratulations for your 2 year way to the heart!

Date: 11 months ago

Review №29

Rating: 5

Michelin aspirations.

Date: 11 months ago

Review №30

Rating: 5

Personalized service and attention to detail. Includes 9 courses + some drinks, some in-between aperitifs, some palate cleansers. Explains each item. Location in a boxcar, 12 seats. Omakase.

Date: a year ago

Review №31

Rating: 5

The best experience! The food and drinks were phenomenal but the storytelling behind every dish was even better.

Date: a year ago

Review №32

Rating: 5

The best tasting menu I ve ever had! The chefs were so nice and you can tell they make the food with love! Food

Date: a year ago

Review №33

Rating: 5

By far, the best dining experience Ive had in San Antonio. Exquisite in every sense of the word.

Date: a year ago

Review №34

Rating: 5

Amazing culinary experience. We plan on going multiple times a year.

Date: a year ago

Review №35

Rating: 5

Every time we go to A Way to the Heart it s a great experience. The food is interesting and tastes great. The menu changes every quarter, and last night we went to the Avatar theme night. It was Awesome! The staff, as always, is super friendly and takes time to talk to each table about the dishes.

Date: a year ago

Review №36

Rating: 5

Was an amazing gastromic experience, food and wine was excellent matching. All the chefs are doing a Great job.

Date: a year ago

Review №37

Rating: 5

Absolutely wonderful all around!

Date: a year ago

Review №38

Rating: 5

Best food and dining experience in San Antonio.

Date: a year ago

Review №39

Rating: 5

Each course was highly anticipated and exceeded our expectations for a fine dining experience. The chefs were very friendly and we enjoyed hearing the inspiration behind each course. Cant wait to try again in the future.

Date: a year ago

Review №40

Rating: 5

Wonderful experience. These Chefs do amazing work and they share their knowledge and creativity on each dish prior to eating. Will be back again.

Date: a year ago

Review №41

Rating: 5

Date: a year ago

Review №42

Rating: 5

Phenomenal, creative, and novel experience near the heart of our city. Highly recommend this experience and really look forward to seeing all that these rising chefs accomplish. Thank you for your care and hospitality!!

Date: a year ago

Review №43

Rating: 5

This place is amazing! We dined here for the first time during one of their special events and the experience was off the charts. It was not only the quality, the taste of the food and drinks, but also the presentation and how each chef took the time to explain each dish and drink as they were presented. This is one of the few that makes our definitely will be back list.

Date: a year ago

Review №44

Rating: 5

Away To The Heart hosted a 9 course Star Wars dinner. Everything about it was perfection. The restaurant seats 12 people but there are six chefs. Thats one per couple! Throughout the evening, they visited our table and spoke to us about the courses. Each one was warm, friendly and passionate. And that passion comes through in an inspired culinary experience. Each dish and drink were inspired by scenes from the movies and shows. If I could, Id give 3 Michelin Stars. The restaurant has exceptional cuisine and worth a special journey just to visit. Rather than being a stop on the way to a destination, this restaurant is the destination. Im proof of that as I drove from Houston to San Antonio.

Date: a year ago

Review №45

Rating: 5

My wife and I decided to try A Way To The Heart in San Antonio for our anniversary. He setting Is a small train car with 7 tables with 2 chairs each. Once all guest arrived they shut the door and closed the curtains. The lighting is low and intimate. They serve a 9 course meal based on the current menu selections which the chef explains how its made and why they chose the dish before every course. We were also served a canter of water, 2 separate glasses of wine and one mixed drink with our experience. The kitchen is open and completely visible. Everything is prepared fresh and you can watch the 5-6 cooks and chefs work. Beautiful food, fantastic flavors, and an overall great experience. 240.00 for 2 people but worth it! Definitely a special occasion type of place for us but we will be back.

Date: a year ago

Review №46

Rating: 5

Wonderful experience of delectable delights.. a must have!

Date: a year ago

Review №47

Rating: 5

Had an incredible time! We had the North American menu. Such creative, incredible food, and all of the chefs were so nice and happy to answer any questions we had. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a unique dining experience.

Date: a year ago

Review №48

Rating: 5

We visited here for restaurant week and enjoyed an amazing 9 course dinner. The place is cozy and quaint. Only sits about 6 couples inside. The chefs were all amazing they described their dishes and thought processes well paired the dishes with great drinks. We will definitely be back whenever their menus look good.

Date: a year ago

Review №49

Rating: 5

Literally so obsessed with this restaurant The food hits different The service is immaculate And theres no dress code I got to feel comfortable and boujee 10/10

Date: a year ago

Review №50

Rating: 5

Swoooon city!! We are completely in love with the intimacy and culinary genius of this place!! We celebrated our ninth anniversary here and couldnt have asked for a better experience. Every dish was unique and flavorful and amplified by a brief chef-led flavor breakdown. My husband and I highly recommend the entire experience!!

Date: a year ago

Review №51

Rating: 5

I highly recommend that everyone visit A Way to the Heart! The chefs are passionate about thier craft and at the top of thier game. Every dish and drink were so delicious. This is a true foodies paradise! Each friendly chef gives thier own heart warming story of how they were inspired to create each of thier masterpiece plates and drinks. Its a unique personal heartfelt memorable and of course, tasty, full sensory experience that I can see myself returning to. Thank you for a memorable evening!

Date: a year ago

Review №52

Rating: 5

I can t say enough about this gem. The food was beyond amazing, but you ll understand when you visit that it wasn t just the food it was the chefs. If I could give more stars I would. Go give them a try

Date: a year ago

Review №53

Rating: 5

What an incredible experience! The food was delicious and the chefs showed their true artistic talent. Every plate was a masterpiece. Thank you so much.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №54

Rating: 5

The place ambiance is phenomenal. There are about 6 tables available and it makes the eating experience more intimate. The diner can watch the chefs prepare their plates and the chef explains what inspired them to create the dish and why it is special to them. Most of the chefs come from the local culinary Institute downtown San Antonio, TX. Of course the meals are their rendition of that plate so there are misses so take that into consideration. Overall, the food is fantastic but remember that some dishes are not going to be the flavor profile that you expect.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №55

Rating: 5

Date: 2 years ago

Review №56

Rating: 5

Delicious food very nice ambiance and the drinks were great. 9 courses were all good

Date: 2 years ago

Review №57

Rating: 5

What an amazing evening! This place way exceeded my expectations! Loved meeting the chefs behind this concept and getting to know them by the stories they told with their dishes. The whole night was a poetic culinary experience! Not only did they reach my heart but they filled my stomach. At the end of the evening one of the chefs asked what my favorite dish was and I couldnt decide because everything was amazing! But I will say the Arroz Con Pollo and empanadas were stand out dishes. It was great to travel through South America! I cant wait to go back in October when they start their new region of Central America, the Caribbean and Mexico! Hats off to these amazing creators! It is a definite must try!

Date: 2 years ago

Review №58

Rating: 5

Where do I begin? Part of me doesnt really want to leave a review, I really want this place to stay the way it is but as good as it is it will explode up big! The four owners/chefs made it an incredible evening. Their passion shines through the food. This quarter is South America and they didnt disappoint, whether it was the empanada or the steak or everything in between, it was simply amazing. Quant with just six tables and filled with tons of love. 9-course meal of greatness. You wont find a better dining experience in San Antonio, or really anywhere.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №59

Rating: 5

A fun culinary experience with great interaction among the chefs inside of a repurposed train. The menu features a nine course meal that changes every three months with foods from different regions of the world. We came when the restaurant was featuring a South American menu

Date: 2 years ago

Review №60

Rating: 5

One of a kinda dining experience loved the menu, The Chefs were incredible and inspiring. The food was amazing

Date: 2 years ago

Review №61

Rating: 5

The restaurant is located inside of a old converted rail road car. Space is limited since they only have 6 tables. Don t let that steer you away, that s a good thing! Very intimate and romantic for couples on a night out. The entire food tasting menu takes about 2 hours to go through. Have to make a reservation to get a table, no walk-ins allowed. There isn t a special dress code or anything but if you re on a date then shorts and flip flops probably isn t the best decision you made that night.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №62

Rating: 5

Date: 2 years ago

Review №63

Rating: 5

This place is special. The best way to describe the experience is that it s as if you are a judge in a cooking competition. There are a variety of Chefs that create a menu of 9 courses inspired by a region of the world. The menu changes every 3 months. They explain the inspiration behind each dish and it s obvious that a lot of time, thought, effort, and creativity goes into what they are doing. I would definitely recommend this place for a unique dining experience to share with your significant other.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №64

Rating: 5

The best dining experience weve had in san Antonio. Came here to celebrate our stay-at-home honeymoon and it was the highlight of our vacation. They were even so thoughtful as to provide us champagne to celebrate! Every single course was delicious, multi-faceted, thoughtful. The paired drinks were equally delicious and im glad they came in the sized glases they did, because they were dangerously tasty. The service was amazing and we had a wonderful time chatting with the chefs afterwards. Theyre all clearly talented and passionate and excited about what they do. We hadnt planned to make this a regular stop, but now i think we have to.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №65

Rating: 5

Dined here tonight and loved it, especially the pear and ice cream dessert, bulgogi jeju (I could eat this everyday!), cucumber/tamarind pickle, and japanese curry. Thank you chefs for preparing a fantastic meal!

Date: 2 years ago

Review №66

Rating: 5

Amazing dining experience. Went with my wife for her birthday and had an amazing time.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №67

Rating: 5

Ive never been to a restaurant like this. It reminds me of Top Chef (or some of other cooking show) where the top contestants have made an exclusive event for you here in San Antonio. Excellent experience overall with great music, ambience and service. The chefs walk you through their dishes for each course which will challenge your palate, but wont disappoint. They are clearly high end professionals obvious in their flavor combinations, techniques and lovely dish preparations. As stated in other reviews, they are all obviously passionate about what they do, which shines through. Definitely a fantastic and unforgettable memory for the books.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №68

Rating: 5

We have been here twice. Found it randomly on open table under experiences. Jerrel, David. John, and Diego take you on a journey around the globe as they use every skill in their expansive culinary repertoire to build unique and subtle but bold flavors. Excellently paired cocktails are fun diversions and the dessert for the Asian tour with the butterfly tea was a perfect end cap for a romantic Valentine s dinner with my wife. I have already booked for the next tour of Africa and Oceania.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №69

Rating: 5

Thus experience was the best I have. The staff was amazingly patient, kind and approachable. The food was AMAZING! Date night, girls night, or just a birthday party this is the spot

Date: 2 years ago

Review №70

Rating: 5

Excellent food and service. Was a very nice dining experiece. The portions were a good size. When we were done I felt full but not stuffed. Will do again.

Date: 2 years ago

Review №71

Rating: 5

This was an amazing dining experience, Great ambience, very intimate setting, such a unique experience with amazing food! You can taste the passion these guys have put into their food! 10/10 would recommend!

Date: 2 years ago

Review №72

Rating: 5

Amazing food! The chefs are passionate about the food and the experience in their house and it shows. It s like eating dinner in the kitchen with family. We loved it and will return!

Date: 2 years ago