LOL I hate Casa Rio! I think it's completely overrated and over priced, but the view is fantastic! Take the boat ride, it's touristy but worth it. For BBQ, go to Rudy's. OMG the brisket, can't be beat!
I agree...if you have to do a touristy place, then Mi Tierra Cafe is better. it is to the West of the Riverwalk near Market Square. You can Uber over there (parking is nuts).
Now since we live in Austin, and can get BBQ and TexMed anywhere (if we WANT BBQ, Lockhart is our vacation spot), our favorite San Antonio haunts are places that serve other options:
Our favorite place is the Liberty Bar in the King William District, just south of downtown on Alamo Street...we especially love their Saturday and Sunday brunches, but they are fantastic all the time.
Also on Alamo street, still south of downtown, but closer to the Riverwalk is a wonderful place, La Frite Belgian Bistro. it is right next to The House: Boozy Ice Cream & Brews...an icecream parlor that has alcoholic icecream. YUM!
As for things to see, right off the Riverwalk is La Villita Historic Arts Village for shopping. The Menger Hotel is historic (Theodore Roosevelt recruited some of his Rough Riders in the bar at the hotel) and is right next door to the Alamo...of course there is the Alamo, but the other Missions that make up the San Antonio Missions National Park are my favorites.