A great cocktail is a fine thing, but pair it with exceptional food and you’ve created something truly transcendent. Better than a quiet night in, better than a crowded dance floor, and perhaps even better than finding a parking spot right out front. That’s why when we want to celebrate—or simply survive—a Texas evening, we don’t just settle for a drink. We seek out places that master both.
From classic speakeasies with small plates to vibrant patios serving full menus, here are the spots in New Braunfels where the glass and the plate are equally divine.
Krause’s Cafe
$ | (830) 625-2807 | WEBSITE
For German beer and pretzels, there’s no better option than Krause’s Cafe. The soft pretzels are baked fresh and served warm. We prefer the traditional ones, but you can also get these with vegan dough. If you’re going to try another dish here that doesn’t involve pretzels, it should be the Beyond sausage. The slightly smoky flavor has just a little bit of spice from the German seasonings.
Gruene’s Last Call
$ | WEBSITE
If you visit Gruene’s Last Call with someone, make them sit facing the bar. That way, you’ll have the best view of the cocktail crafting. Try the popular ‘Under the Texas Skies’, topped with a shimmering blue layer of citrus-infused spirits. There are several cocktail options of varying complexity—get the signature to start, then come back for the others.
Sidecar
$$ | (830) 255-7432 | WEBSITE
If everything feels like it’s too loud, maybe you just need a Tuesday evening at Sidecar. Everyone at the New Braunfels spot has a great big cocktail in front of them, and each glass catches the low amber light in the cozy brick-walled room as if this were a jazz sanctuary. Grab a seat at the bar for the night, and on your first visit try one of their signature drinks, which has that bold spirit-forward character, smooth yet potent balance, and a generous pour over hand-cut ice.
Chuy’s
$ | (830) 368-2489 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of options on the menu at Chuy’s, but if anything’s a must-order at this casual Tex-Mex spot in New Braunfels, it’s the steak burrito. The tender grilled steak is flavorful and only lightly seasoned. Each burrito is loaded with rice, beans, cheese, pico de gallo, and (our favorite) creamy jalapeño sauce, all of which beautifully complement that savory filling.
Off the Clock NB
$$ | (830) 627-4727 | WEBSITE
The cocktail list at this New Braunfels spot is extensive, but your visit should always start with their signature Old Fashioned. The bourbon is smooth and rich but still approachable, the ice is a single large cube that melts slowly, the orange peel garnish adds just the right citrus note, and the simple syrup brings everything together without being cloying. Stop by with your dog and sip this drink down in about twenty minutes.
the reserve on 1863
$ | (830) 327-1044 | WEBSITE
For years, this vibrant outdoor venue on 1863 has offered an impressive selection of whiskey and bourbon with great bartenders. We like that their weekends feature fantastic food trucks and great music, and it’s pet-friendly with a small parking lot and overflow in the back. But if you do like the feeling of adding something, make good use of the excellent customer service and atmosphere that come with every visit.
La Cosecha Mexican Table
$$ | (830) 358-7511 | WEBSITE
There’s exactly one thing you need to order at this inviting, upscale Mexican spot in New Braunfels, and it’s right there in the menu. La Cosecha Mexican Table is a brisket enchilada virtuoso. Their beautifully plated dish tastes like the hyperconcentrated essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, with fresh ingredients and comfortable ambiance to help elevate the entire dining experience.
Tavern on Castell
$ | (830) 387-4064 | WEBSITE
Portion size doesn’t matter, but if it did, the shrimp tacos at this cocktail bar in New Braunfels would lose. The tavern burger is a flavor lover’s trifecta of juicy beef, crisp lettuce, and tangy special sauce. The cocktails themselves are boozy and balanced with just a hint of sweetness, but if you’re hoping to elevate your evening for the next few hours, order the bartender’s special (with a great deal of enthusiasm).
Gruene Tini’s
$ | (830) 632-5253 | WEBSITE
Gruene Tini’s is a cute, cozy spot for a night out, which makes it more reliable than most of our plans. Our absolute favorite thing here is the chocolate raspberry martini, a creative drink that’s topped with fresh raspberries. The smooth cocktail also has a bunch of other great things going for it, like subtle chocolate notes and a perfectly chilled glass.
The friendly bartenders, including Rian, provide superior service and craft unique drinks, such as the Espresso Martini, Old Fashioned, and ‘dirty monkey’. Although they don’t serve food, warm pretzels are available at the bar. The ambiance is pleasant and inviting, with a small patio and cozy seating inside. Prices are low, around $9-12 per cocktail, and the drink selection is extensive.
The bar is well stocked, and you can try a variety of different drinks, including the banana bread old fashioned.
Goodwin’s Speakeasy
$ | (830) 765-0300 | WEBSITE
The transportive passionfruit tiki with gin at Goodwin’s Speakeasy in Gruene comes with one generous pour, sweet fruit notes, precisely-crafted ice, and fresh mint—a four-part harmony that could make a classic cocktail tremble. The mainstream bar stuff just doesn’t compare.
Bootleggers Pizza Parlor
$ | (830) 327-1199 | WEBSITE
As the name suggests, this place specializes in pizza, specifically wood-fired pies that are one of our single favorite things to eat in New Braunfels. They arrive fresh from the brick oven, with crisp crusts, fresh toppings like on the supreme or Meat Head, and that perfect balance of chewiness. Come here during happy hour when you can pair your pizza with a unique house-made Moonshine or a reasonably priced Moscow Mule.
Cody’s Restaurant, Bar, & Patio NB
$$$ | (830) 609-9194 | WEBSITE
When Cody’s opened in New Braunfels, they served cocktails and only cocktails. And though they have a full menu now, their greatest hit still remains. All you’ll need to do is choose between the cucumber Mojito (refreshing) or another top-notch creation (balanced), and then wait for your perfectly crafted drink, with a beautiful presentation that glistens in the light, and friendly staff ready to make your evening memorable.