New Braunfels has been perfecting the art of the burger long before it became a national obsession. That dedication is baked into the city’s culinary soul, which is why we’re a destination for patties grilled over live fire, brioche buns toasted to order, and inventive toppings that honor both tradition and Texas terroir.
Wings and Rings
$ | (830) 626-9464 | WEBSITE
The latest addition to New Braunfels’ burger scene brings the wing-centric comfort food you’ll find at classic American sports bars—a.k.a. the ultimate game-day destination. The prices (and portions) are pure 2020s Texas, though.
While you’re not going to huddle on barstools while wings are fried in front of your eyes, a trip to this fun, casual spot is your chance to enjoy chicken sandwiches piled high with toppings, some of the crispiest lemon pepper wings you’ve ever tasted, and bold flavors like the unique blueberry version with perfectly sauced chicken and fresh celery.
Skip the basic beers in lieu of one of the big plates that satisfy often, like the hot appetizer combo which is built around quality wings and tasty queso.
Pat’s Place
$ | (830) 629-1491 | WEBSITE
A little Texan, a little riverside, Pat’s Place has been a local favorite for years. Stop into the lively restaurant and bar by the water for their chips and guacamole—a.k.a. crispy tortilla chips with fresh guacamole and hot salsa. This spot is also the move for relaxed family meals full of generous portions like Chicken Fried Steak that some say is the best they’ve ever had, enchiladas praised by regulars, plus tempting burgers that catch your eye.
But any time spent here will be a welcome break from New Braunfels’ busy lunch scene, with fast, attentive service from staff like Angel and Nicole making it a delightful place to relax with good company and homemade key lime pie.
The Reel Seafood & Grill
$$ | (830) 214-6103 | WEBSITE
This cozy seafood spot from the Texas Gulf Coast team reminds us of a classic New Orleans eatery because of the incredible fresh catches and generous portions. Except nobody who’s enjoying a casual dinner in the French Quarter would be eating the kind of seafood you’ll find here. We’re talking about Southern staples like shrimp etouffee, sure, but also their now-signature redfish ponchatrain, New Braunfels’ answer to Gulf Coast comfort.
The Reel is modest on space but big on flavor, so it’s best for solo diners who want to relax at the comfortable outdoor seating or couples starting their evening at one of the warmly lit tables that fill the dining room.
Willie’s Grill & Icehouse
$ | (830) 620-5200 | WEBSITE
Boredom is banished the second you enter Willie’s Grill & Icehouse, the New Braunfels burger joint that’s been winning praise since opening. It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve had the crispy wings and buttery crab legs cooked up by their kitchen—you’ll leave each meal eager to plan your next visit, especially so you can get your hands on their incredible chicken fried chicken, fried pickles with ranch, and that reliable burger.
It’s always good energy and smiles all around inside the casual space with warm lighting bolstered by wooden tables and plenty of friendly servers who go above and beyond. That’s why Willie’s is great to have in your back pocket when showing visitors there’s more to Texas than barbecue (try those nachos instead) and fast food designed to satisfy quick cravings.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
$ | (830) 627-2626 | WEBSITE
This burger joint in New Braunfels is quintessentially Texas. There are classic fast-casual staples, a bright and efficient setting (with a convenient drive-thru)—and a crowd that ranges from families grabbing a quick bite to road-trippers who are here for the $8 combo meals that still satisfy years after their introduction. While the food is grounded in tradition, it delivers consistent quality.
Orders arrive with shoestring fries aplenty, crispy spicy chicken sandwiches, and sides like custard that’s creamy and rich, a must-try treat. Mains might include the signature steakburgers, hot and perfectly cooked, or the popular spicy chicken sandwich, a more straightforward dish with a satisfying kick and fresh toppings.
Bosses Pizza, Wings & Burgers New Braunfels
$ | (830) 620-6900 | WEBSITE
Bosses is by far the best burger spot in New Braunfels right now. Maybe that has something to do with their special Tuesday pizza deal, or the fact that they craft burgers that are truly a must-try. We think it’s because the fun, retro atmosphere here always feels like a party—and one you’ll never want to leave. It’s a place that could be described as cool and lively if you’re with family, but might not be ideal for quiet dinners.
Order the pizza with great flavor and hang out at one of the tables while playing some retro games. Parking is no longer as hard to find as it was when Bosses first opened, but don’t count on being able to waltz in on a weekend—come early to grab a spot in their plenty of parking.
Faust Brewing Company
$$ | (830) 609-9086 | WEBSITE
Faust Brewing Company is the standout in New Braunfels’s growing craft beer scene. And while every new brewery now vibes with flight samplers, dog-friendly patios, and food truck partnerships, this wasn’t the norm when Faust opened their unique keg-shaped operation near the river years ago. The brewery maintains its quiet, welcoming atmosphere, despite thirsty visitors relaxing outside in the shady courtyard until it’s their turn to try these solid brews.
No, reservations aren’t needed, but it’s worth a little stroll for their honey wheat beer, lush with subtle sweetness, or mixed drinks and wine balanced with a large tater tot appetizer that’s crispy and satisfying.
Cantina del Rio
$ | (830) 515-1950 | WEBSITE
Cantina del Rio fills a much-needed gap in New Braunfels’ Mexican scene that favors big portions and small prices. This is high-quality Tex-Mex that doesn’t require saving up for weeks to enjoy—almost all dishes on the menu are under $18. Signature items like the perfectly cooked chicken fajitas with onions and peppers and the fantastic carne guisada will satisfy the comfort food lover in your life, while the pork tacos will scratch an itch for popular choices.
This never-stuffy Gruene restaurant offers a colorful and relaxed outdoor patio that creates a fun atmosphere for guests. So plan accordingly if you want to book a spot for a semi-special weeknight meal or an anniversary.
Smash Daddy Burgers
$ | (830) 500-5730 | WEBSITE
New Braunfels’ burger scene tends toward predictable patties and basic toppings, and Smash Daddy Burgers is a refreshing departure. Why not a towering stack of juicy meat with crispy edges and loaded chili fries? The ambitious food truck from the friendly owners in the gravel parking lot is the answer for satisfying burgers that dive deep into the messy, flavorful comfort food thing. The menu features classics, so you’re guaranteed to find your favorite indulgence.
You might try the “Daddy Issues” with melty cheese and crispy onion rings or the “Mac Daddy,” generously assembled with quality beef and a nice spice on the fries. We recommend letting the welcoming staff guide you and opting for the $14 burger combo, and bring your friend who insists there isn’t a great burger spot in town.
Freddy C’s Bar & Patio
$ | (830) 358-7050 | WEBSITE
There are a few things you can count on when you eat at Freddy C’s: the patio will be lively, a silly amount of cold beer will get passed around, and you’ll become a lover of their burgers even if you didn’t know your patty from your bun before.
This New Braunfels spot is a great place for groups, so you can order the brunch experience (full table participation is required), a bountiful selection of dishes like the standout chicken quesadilla and juicy burgers, ideally paired with a variety of local brews—including lagers, IPAs, and stouts—that are perfect for watching the game with the table next to you.
Texas Bistro At Park View
$ | (830) 302-7538 | WEBSITE
Texas Bistro At Park View, one of New Braunfels’ most popular spots, showcases the city’s love for hearty, satisfying comfort food. There’s the Greek chicken sandwich served with crispy French fries, the standout crab Benedict on the brunch menu, the southern shrimp dish with grilled shrimp over rice topped with a poached egg, spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, and hollandaise, and more favorites like jalapeno poppers, cheeseburgers, and buttermilk chicken.
Somehow, it all just works—and is perfect for enjoying with family or on a casual date night. The space, with its clean, neat ambiance and cozy indoor and outdoor seating, is the perfect spot to catch up with friends and get a much-needed serotonin boost after a long week.
In-N-Out Burger
$ | (800) 786-1000 | WEBSITE
New Braunfels doesn’t have a history of strong burger traditions, which means you’ll never be subjected to a McDonald’s vs. Whataburger debate (though everybody here seems to love eating burgers with animal fries). If anything could represent New Braunfels-style burgers, though, it’d be In-N-Out Burger. This is the place for a casual meal with quick service. Expect fresh, gooey patties, just the right amount of cheese, and signature items like pink lemonade.
Don’t be surprised to see friendly and efficient staff enhancing the experience, which is better than robotic service anyway.
Tavern on Castell
$ | (830) 387-4064 | WEBSITE
Tavern on Castell has been a cornerstone of casual dining in New Braunfels since it opened years ago, and it still pulls in regulars who fill the bar stools and tables as soon as happy hour begins. That’s because they take the best of a classic tavern experience—fun atmosphere, boozy drinks, and all—and make it feel fresh. The vibe is more American in spirit, laid-back with lots of character.
You can sample different dishes to explore the menu, so try the Pork Wings alongside the Spinach Mushroom Flatbread, a savory option with mushrooms, spinach, and melted cheese. We recommend making it a combo, with the addition of the Genoa Sandwich for a satisfying meal.