Where do locals eat in New Braunfels?

The Gristmill River Restaurant in Gruene Historic District consistently draws the largest crowds and is the most widely recognized dining destination in the city. For locals, Huisache Grill downtown is the most consistently recommended for a proper sit-down dinner. For barbecue, Pika's Bar-B-Q is the local institution most often cited by longtime residents.

If you've never been: lunch at the Gristmill on the Guadalupe River deck, followed by a walk through Gruene Historic District and a beer at Würst Bier Hall. That single afternoon covers the city's food identity — river setting, Texas comfort food, German brewing tradition — better than any other combination.

Yes. Naegelin's Bakery (opened 1868) is the most historically significant — the kolaches and strudel are legitimately excellent and inexpensive. Cool River Café is the most popular brunch spot for a full cooked breakfast. Würst Küche does a German-inflected morning menu with house-smoked meats that is genuinely unlike anywhere else in the region.

Yes, though the food and the setting are inseparable in Gruene. The Gristmill's deck above the Guadalupe River is one of the better outdoor dining experiences in Texas. Mozie's and Gruene River Grill are solid secondary options that let you linger in the district without the main crowd. If Gruene Hall has a show, build your evening around dinner first and the music after.