Plenty of spots in New Braunfels serve burgers and beers, but too many offer forgettable fare in generic settings. When you crave a truly memorable bar-and-grill experience, let this list be your guide. From a rustic riverside spot with perfect brisket to a downtown patio where the margaritas flow as freely as the conversation, here are the best bar & grill restaurants in town.
Chili’s Grill & Bar
$ | (830) 626-7555 | WEBSITE
On those all-too-familiar New Braunfels afternoons, the dining room at Chili’s Grill & Bar is the place to be. It’s a casual restaurant that’s permanently settled in a well-kept space, now packed with comfortable booths, family tables, and wheelchair-accessible seating. Claim a spacious table for your group and fill it with a spread of baby back pork ribs with loaded mashed potatoes, honey chipotle crispers, and as many big mouth sliders and fries as the rest of your evening will allow.
Tavern on Castell
$ | (830) 387-4064 | WEBSITE
Want to impress your friends with a reservation at a semi-hidden tavern? Go to Tavern on Castell in New Braunfels and sit inside with rustic walls and warm lighting everywhere. Take your time with the eclectic menu of mostly bar-and-grill classics like pork wings, Genoa sandwich, and shrimp tacos with fresh toppings and sauces. The cocktails are boozy and expertly made, with the bartender offering personable service that makes you feel right at home.
The atmosphere is casual and fun, enhanced by old school music playing in the background. While the shrimp tacos are praised for their exceptional taste, the portion size might not meet everyone’s expectations. But the tavern burger and spinach mushroom flatbread more than make up for it. Overall, it’s a must-visit for a date night or a night out with friends, especially during happy hour when the vibe really shines.
Scores Sports Bar & Grill
$ | (830) 620-9091 | WEBSITE
When someone says “sports bar” and “New Braunfels” in the same sentence, we’re struck with a burning desire to head to Scores Sports Bar & Grill. Their lively atmosphere has multiple screens, team memorabilia, and an abundance of cheering fans (we also love coming here for game days). Wherever you end up sitting, get a cold beer, order a plate of tasty wings, and enjoy it while you watch whatever game is being projected on the screens.
Freddy C’s Bar & Patio
$ | (830) 358-7050 | WEBSITE
The lively patio at Freddy C’s has plenty of TVs and cold beer flowing, and is buzzing—head here if you want to escape whatever’s stressing you out over the best burgers and brunch in town. When in doubt, go with the deliciously juicy burgers, chicken quesadilla dressed up with all the fixings, and cold brews served alongside a mountain of crispy fries.
Koozies Icehouse & Grill
$ | (830) 964-4443 | WEBSITE
You can’t beat Koozies Icehouse & Grill on a night when the live band is playing. The icehouse, which offers a casual and comfortable atmosphere, has a lively space with music and entertainment that may end up being the highlight of a fun evening out with friends or a date. There’s delicious food to enjoy, including a highly praised pizza option, plus drinks to accompany the experience.
Lucy Cooper’s Ice House
$ | (830) 837-5172 | WEBSITE
If you haven’t figured it out yet, if a sports bar is packed with TVs and buzzing with energy, it’s definitely on this list. This lively New Braunfels spot is a local favorite and has a vibrant interior with bright screens, game sounds, and plenty of activity. Forget about the quiet night outside while you enjoy bar classics like fried deviled eggs, wings, pork rinds, or some of the juiciest burgers around.
Happy Cow Bar and Grill
$ | (512) 667-7510 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking to spend a few hours drinking discounted shots and getting loud with friends, all roads lead to the outdoor area at this rustic bar and grill in New Braunfels. There are plenty of activities spread throughout the space, and live music like Jake Bush pumping through the speakers. Throw in very good burgers and thin crust pizza with everything on it, and you have the ideal night.
The Hideaway New Braunfels
$ | (830) 620-5376 | WEBSITE
The Hideaway New Braunfels feels like a laid-back neighborhood hangout tucked away in the heart of the community, with a spacious bar area featuring pool tables and walls of tables. But the outdoor bar area with seating, grass, and a play area for kids is exactly where we want to sip strong, well-priced drinks and fill up on the popular burger, Philly, and chicken sandwich. The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is also a standout choice, and on Saturday Steak Night, meals are offered for $20.
The atmosphere is relaxed and chill, making it a good spot for a date night or hanging out with friends, with a small dance floor or tables set up where the dance floor usually is. Many visitors find this spot to be a great place to chill, enjoy good tunes, and have a fun night out.