New Braunfels is a gem of a town in Texas.
It’s a place where Germany’s old-world charm meets America’s modern flair.
Now, let’s add a dash of culinary magic and a hint of artisanal brews to this scene.
Yes, what really makes New Braunfels special is the food.
I’ve had the joy of experiencing the best restaurants in New Braunfels.
And believe me, they serve a delightful blend of taste, vibe, and warm hospitality.
The memories of those meals?
Priceless.
I’m excited to share them with you, so I hope you’re hungry.
After all, there’s nothing quite like a good meal in good company, wouldn’t you agree?
Read on to discover why New Braunfels is one of those places that makes you fall in love with food all over again.
Best Restaurants In New Braunfels Compared
Let me whisk you away to the culinary wonders of New Braunfels.
These top picks for the best restaurants offer delicious dishes showcasing the town’s rich and diverse culture.
Editor’s Choice
Adobe Cafe
Adobe Cafe is a local Mexican restaurant that offers Tex-Mex classics and alcoholic drinks near the Guadalupe River.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#2nd Best Choice
Muck & Fuss
Muck & Fuss is a downtown restaurant and bar that serves craft beer, burgers, and other American dishes amid live music.
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Alpine Haus Restaurant
Alpine Haus Restaurant is a posh German restaurant known for its from-scratch German food, wine, and beer choices.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
Here are the top 15 restaurants in New Braunfels open right now.
1. Adobe Cafe (Editor’s Choice)
124 S Business IH 35
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-4433
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Adobe Cafe is a local Mexican restaurant that offers Tex-Mex classics and alcoholic drinks near the Guadalupe River.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Authentic Mexican cuisine: Adobe Cafe is known for its superb Tex-Mex alongside traditional Mexican favorites, fresh salads and seafood, and tasty desserts.
- Charming ambiance: The restaurant has a lovely and cozy atmosphere with rustic decor that adds to the dining experience.
Cons
- Additional charges: The restaurant charges for additional chips and salsa.
- No reservations: Adobe Cafe does not take reservations for small parties.
Why It Made The List
Red-tile floors, beautiful arches, and an indoor fountain add a certain fancy but casual atmosphere to this place.
Its chill vibe and heaping servings are reasons why it’s among the best rated restaurants in New Braunfels.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start with the Fiesta Queso and continue to a Tex-Mex Platter (#6 is a terrific recommendation). The beef Chimichanga is also an excellent choice when you’re here.
2. Muck & Fuss
295 E San Antonio, Suite #101
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 255-7055
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Muck & Fuss is a downtown restaurant and bar that serves craft beer, burgers, and other American dishes amid live music.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 5/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Gourmet burgers: Muck & Fuss offers a diverse, chef-inspired selection of gourmet burgers made with high-quality ingredients.
- Extensive beer selection: They have a curated selection of craft beer and signature cocktails like the Muck-A-Rita.
Cons
- Long waits: The restaurant can be bustling and have long wait times for seating and food.
- Limited vegetarian/vegan options: While Muck & Fuss specializes in burgers, vegetarian/vegan options are limited compared to meat-based offerings.
Why It Made The List
Bright with high ceilings and a modern industrial aesthetic, this place is one of the best restaurants downtown because of its Instagrammable look and photogenic (and yummy) comfort food.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the Jalapeno Cheese Fritters for your appetizer and the Diablo burger for your main meal (if you like spicy) or the Great Southern burger (if you don’t like spicy).
If you’re after finger foods to pair with your drinks, try the Carolina-Tex Mex Loaded Fries.
3. Alpine Haus Restaurant
251 S Seguin Avenue
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 214-0205
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Alpine Haus Restaurant is a posh German restaurant known for its from-scratch German food, wine, and beer choices.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
Pros
- Authentic German cuisine: Alpine Haus Restaurant serves scratch-made German fare in a historical locale with a wine and beer garden.
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere: The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a German beer hall.
Cons
- Limited menu variety: They have a limited menu with few options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets.
- High price range: The prices at Alpine Haus can be pricey compared to other restaurants in the area.
Why It Made The List
Fine dining in New Braunfels is best done in this old home whose intimate setup elevates the romance of your date.
It perfectly balances the cozy feeling of home and the elegant ambiance of posh dining places.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the Sausage Sampler Platter for your starter and go with the Sauerbraten (roast beef in red wine) for your main entree.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village
4. Huisache Grill and Wine Bar
303 W San Antonio Street
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 620-9001
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Huisache Grill and Wine Bar is a charming bistro and grill known for its regionally-inspired meals, beer, and wine.
Why It Made The List
When it comes to local restaurants that serve the best food in New Braunfels, this bistro is a sure winner for its familiar and hearty fare.
But another reason why it’s so popular is because of its rustic-country vibe that’s fancy but cozy.
Popular Dishes to Try
Get the Vera Cruz Style Shrimp Cocktail to start.
Then, go for the Charbroiled Lamb Burger with a side of sweet potato wedges for a casual, easy meal.
If you want something more filling, the Mixed Grill (grilled beef, blackened quail, shrimp, & chicken) will keep you well-sated.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Braunfels, an IHG Hotel
5. Gruene River Grill
1259 Gruene Road
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 624-2300
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Gruene River Grill is a rustic American restaurant with a riverside deck that offers classic American dishes.
Why It Made The List
Laid-back country vibes are what you’re going to experience when you dine in this wooden restaurant.
It’s a nice pick for casual spots to eat if you want the best river views during your meal on the outdoor patio.
Popular Dishes to Try
Take it easy and get the Homemade Cheesesticks to start.
Then, go for the Chicken Guadalupe or the Jalapeno Mandarin Pork Chop for your main meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn New Braunfels
Related: Best New Braunfels Pizza
6. Gristmill
1287 Gruene Road
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-0684
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Gristmill is an American restaurant and bar with patio views overlooking the Guadalupe River.
Why It Made The List
The wooden details, high ceilings, and organic atmosphere of this restaurant allow it to be one of the best birthday restaurants in New Braunfels if you’re after something unique.
Celebrating your special day amid greenery while eating great food is definitely a fantastic treat.
Popular Dishes to Try
Get the Tortilla Soup and the Gruene Bros. ‘Best’ Wurst with potato salad for your meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Braunfels
7. Clear Springs Cafe
1692 TX-46
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-3775
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Clear Springs Cafe is a laid-back seafood and steak restaurant known for its rustic, barn-like setup.
Why It Made The List
If you’re after the coolest hangout spots for a foodie, then this place is absolutely a favorite among the good restaurants in New Braunfels for its very social setup.
All the tables are housed in a massive barn, so it can get super lively during your meals, perfect for chilling out with friends.
Popular Dishes to Try
Definitely get a serving of the World Famous Onion Rings and a cup of the Cajun Gumbo.
Go for the Seafood Grill (catfish and shrimp) for your main course and finish with Homemade Banana Pudding.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites New Braunfels
Also See:
Port Aransas Restaurants
Best Restaurants in Navasota
8. McAdoo’s Seafood Company
196 N Castell Avenue
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 629-3474
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McAdoo’s Seafood Company is a fancy seafood restaurant housed in a circa-1915 converted post office that serves Cajun-style dishes and cocktails.
Why It Made The List
Polished wooden floors, dark wood furnishings, leather couches, and a long bar create a posh ambiance, which is why this resto-bar is among the best dinner places in New Braunfels.
It’s one of the most popular restaurants to try because of its incredible menu.
Still, you can’t deny that its fancy aesthetic will also look great on your social media feed.
Popular Dishes to Try
Begin your meal with the Coconut Shrimp and try the Crawfish and Shrimp Etouffee Jambalaya for your main course.
Definitely get a Sangria Swirl Frozen Margarita while you’re at it.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites by Hilton New Braunfels
9. Buttermilk Cafe
1324 E Common Street
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-8700
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Buttermilk Cafe is a casual American eatery in Common Market known for its gourmet twists on homestyle American morning and midday meals.
Why It Made The List
The classic diner atmosphere is what you’ll experience when you eat your meals in this restaurant.
It’s definitely among the best places to eat in New Braunfels if you’re after breakfast or brunch because of their familiar dishes that come in heaping servings.
Popular Dishes to Try
Choose the Coastal Creole Breakfast if you like seafood, as it’s a unique choice.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn New Braunfels
10. Faust Brewing Company
499 S. Castell Ave.
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 609-9086
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Faust Brewing Company is a local brewery popular for its traditional German and English beers with an American twist.
Why It Made The List
This brewery has one of the top New Braunfels restaurants because of its hip, trendy, and casual setup in a bunker with picnic tables inside, a fantastic place for hanging out with friends.
Of course, its creative craft beers are also a huge reason for its popularity.
Popular Dishes to Try
For finger foods to pair with your beer, go with the Kartoffelchips or the Pretzel Bites.
The Grown Up Mac N’ Cheese and Snapper Tacos are great choices if you want to feel full after your meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott New Braunfels River Village
11. Naturally
2302 Gruene Lake Drive
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 214-6300
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Naturally is a cafe and counter-serve restaurant in Gruene Lake Village that caters to health-conscious people.
Why It Made The List
Simple and bright, the friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for midday breaks while you eat the best lunch in New Braunfels.
Health nuts, vegans, and vegetarians are sure to appreciate their tasty options here.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try a bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup and half a plate of the Xochitl salad.
Then, go for the Vegetarian sandwich with chips paired with a Kiss Me (strawberry-peach yogurt) smoothie.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Braunfels
Related: Best Things to Do in New Braunfels
12. Gourmage
270 W San Antonio Street
New Braunfels TX 78130
(830) 214-6471
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Gourmage is a charming cheese shop that also serves homemade ice cream and light cafe fare.
Why It Made The List
If you’re looking for where to eat in New Braunfels during your shopping expedition, take a break in this shop’s cafe section.
You’ll find the food terrific, and you can check out the products in the shop while waiting or after your meal.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the signature Gourmage Sandwich paired with Iced Coffee.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites New Braunfels
13. The Birdhouse
1617 New Braunfels Street
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 608-0690
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Located on New Braunfels Street, The Birdhouse is a chicken and wine restaurant that offers fried, smoked, and grilled chicken dishes and brunch options.
Why It Made The List
The Birdhouse is a fancy chicken and fine wine restaurant serving chicken dishes with a twist.
The Birdhouse is located in a charming historic building that used to be The River House, another popular restaurant in town.
Its interior is cozy and elegant, with a fireplace, a wine bar, and a mural of birds on the wall.
The outdoor patio is spacious and inviting, with a fire pit, a fountain, and a view of the Comal River.
Their menu is full of creative and flavorful options that will satisfy any chicken lover.
Plus, they have a brunch menu that will make your mouth water.
The Birdhouse also has an impressive wine list featuring local and international wine by the glass or bottle.
Popular Dishes to Try
You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu at The Birdhouse.
I always go for the Nashville hot sandwich with fries.
It’s spicy, juicy, and satisfying.
And I can’t resist their warm salted caramel brownie for dessert, which you can enjoy a la mode.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hideout on the Horseshoe
Also See:
Places to Eat in Pecos
Restaurants in Plainview
Restaurants in McKinney
14. Fork & Spoon
651 N Business IH35, Suite 1150
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 626-6999
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Fork & Spoon is an informal German-American restaurant that serves burgers and bratwurst in New Braunfels MarketPlace.
Why It Made The List
For a relaxing and leisurely dining experience, this cafe is a terrific choice when it comes to restaurants near you.
Its booth tables are comfy, and its comfort food menu makes for a fabulous, no-fuss time.
Popular Dishes to Try
Experience a refreshing start with the Strawberry Fields Salad and try the Vienna Schnitzel Sandwich.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, New Braunfels, TX
15. Texas Bistro at Park View
1932 S Seguin Avenue
New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 302-7538
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Texas Bistro at Park View is a New American restaurant known for its classic American meals prepared fresh and served beautifully.
Why It Made The List
The modern country aesthetic of this place paired with its beautifully plated dishes is a few reasons why it’s a top choice for the best restaurants in New Braunfels.
It’s also pretty easy to access, which is perfect if you don’t want to have a hard time looking for somewhere to eat.
Popular Dishes to Try
Begin with the Italian Sausage Gratin and follow it up with the Marinate Bistro Quail for your main course.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gruene River Hotel & Retreat
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
Whether you crave comfort, adventure, or elegance, you’ll find a restaurant in New Braunfels that suits your mood.
At Adobe Cafe, I felt like I was in my grandma’s kitchen, enjoying the heavenly Tex-Mex dishes made with love.
The house-made tortillas were little fluffy pillows of comfort that speak of home.
Muck & Fuss was a different story.
Their burgers were bold and creative, a riot of flavors that made me smile with every bite.
The playful fusion of flavors transformed the humble patty into a gastronomic masterpiece.
And when I wanted a taste of Europe, I headed to Alpine Haus Restaurant.
Alpine Haus Restaurant lures you into its cozy Bavarian charm.
Its authentic German fare—schnitzels, bratwurst, and sauerkraut—transported me to a quaint mountain hamlet, far from the Texas heat.
Each eatery offers its unique narrative.
Adobe Cafe, for instance, excels in providing an intimate, homey atmosphere with its mouth-watering Tex-Mex dishes.
On the other hand, Muck & Fuss delivers a lively, vibrant vibe with its gourmet burgers and extensive craft beer selection.
And, for those longing for Bavarian taste, Alpine Haus offers an authentic German dining experience complete with a cozy beer hall ambiance.
Thus, choosing the right one greatly depends on your mood and culinary cravings.
How I Picked The Restaurants
To uncover the true culinary gems of New Braunfels, I embarked on a voyage of taste and exploration.
I visited each restaurant on this list, sampling their dishes and chatting with the locals and other visitors.
These places have impressed me with their delicious and diverse offerings, reflecting the lively and colorful culture of New Braunfels.
I can assure you that each one is worth every moment of anticipation.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
We rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: We use it to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? We ask ourselves these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: It’s used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are the important questions whenever we rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: It evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? We consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: We use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? We ask ourselves these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: It measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? We use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Restaurants In New Braunfels Offer Vegetarian Or Vegan Menu Options?
Several restaurants in New Braunfels offer vegetarian and vegan menu options, including The River House, which has a dedicated vegetarian section on their menu, and Krause’s Cafe, which offers vegan dishes such as vegan tacos and vegan schnitzel on Vegan Tuesdays.
Are There Any Restaurants In New Braunfels That Offer Gluten-Free Options?
For gluten-free options in New Braunfels, you can visit restaurants like 2tarts Bakery, which has a variety of gluten-free pastries, and McAdoo’s Seafood Company, where they have a gluten-free menu with options like grilled fish and steamed seafood.
What Are Some Must-Try Dishes Or Specialties At New Braunfels Restaurants?
There are several must-try dishes and specialties at local restaurants in New Braunfels. Some notable examples include the German schnitzel at Krause’s Cafe, the Gristmill Chicken at The Gristmill River Restaurant, and the homemade root beer floats at Clear Springs Restaurant. These dishes highlight the unique flavors and culinary experiences that New Braunfels has to offer.
Conclusion
I’ve been to some amazing places in Texas, but nothing compares to the food scene in New Braunfels.
It’s a food paradise, and I set on to discover its best bites.
It was hard to pick a favorite among these three gems: Adobe Cafe, Muck & Fuss, and Alpine Haus Restaurant.
But one place always draws me back with its cozy vibe: Adobe Cafe.
It’s where I go for authentic Mexican food that tastes like home.
The dishes are simple but satisfying, made with fresh ingredients and seasoned with love.
Representing the best restaurants in New Braunfels, Adobe Cafe is a story of how food can bring people together and celebrate culture.
Nonetheless, the choice is ultimately yours.
Indulge your senses and make your own discoveries.
Editor’s Choice
Adobe Cafe
Adobe Cafe is a local Mexican restaurant that offers Tex-Mex classics and alcoholic drinks near the Guadalupe River.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
