Let’s face it, when ISN’T Gruene super-crowded – especially during the summer months? If you’ve been to historic Gruene, Texas, then you’ve probably enjoyed the shopping and the live music. You’ve probably even eaten at the iconic restaurant, The Gristmill while you were there. Or, maybe you didn’t get to eat at The Gristmill because the wait was too long, which is another common problem.
Many will argue (us included) that The Gristmill is worth the wait. And to be fair, The Gristmill does a stellar job of entertaining its legions of waiting patrons by providing a bar and live music in the biergarten. But some days you’re hot and “hangry” (hungry + angry = “hangry”) and in no mood to wait. So, what’s a ravenous visitor to do?
Here are three nearby dining options that are often overlooked, really tasty, and seldom as crowded as The Gristmill:
1. The River House, 1617 New Braunfels Street
Photo: Facebook/The River House
Tucked away in a quiet corner, under the trees and away from the hullabaloo, sits The River House. The River House features an exciting menu of classic Southern cuisine. The menu features everything from creative salads to one of the best burgers in town. Most of The River House’s ingredients are locally sourced from Texas farmers, and brought fresh to your table, and features outdoor dining under the majestic trees that line the Guadalupe as well as indoor seating. The restaurant has a lovely wine list as well as local brews. The River House is open Tuesday – Saturday 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. and until 9 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
2. Inferno’s Wood Fired and Spirits, 1198 Gruene Road
Photo: Facebook/Inferno’s Wood Fired Oven & Spirits
Located just a short walk from Gruene Hall, Inferno’s brings a new and interesting taste to New Braunfels. Featuring artisan-style pizzas as well as salads and hand-crafted sandwiches, Inferno’s has a large, beautiful patio as well as an ample number of televisions inside for all of your sports-viewing needs. Inferno’s is open Sunday – Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
3. Gruene River Grill, 1259 Gruene Road
Photo: Facebook/Gruene River Grill
Behind Gruene Hall overlooking the Guadalupe is the Gruene River Grill. Boasting both indoor and patio dining, the restaurant’s extensive menu is sure to please everyone in your party. The balsamic ribeye steak is a stand-out, as are the Gruene Chicken Enchiladas. The ambiance at the Gruene River Grill is the best. With the roaring fireplace in the winter or outdoor dining above the river, you can’t go wrong with either a quick lunch while out shopping or a romantic dinner on date night. Gruene River Grill is open Sunday – Thursday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention some of The Gristmill’s stand-out attributes, such as their world famous chicken fried steak, the “Best of the Wurst” and, their fresh-made margaritas – not to mention the atmosphere! But no matter where your stomach leads you in Gruene, you’re sure to have an exceptional meal and an enjoyable experience – whether it’s at the Gristmill or somewhere a little less crowded.
