Texas has a deep German heritage that stretches back over 150 years, and nowhere is that history more alive than in its restaurants. From the rolling Hill Country to busy city streets, German eateries across the Lone Star State have kept old-world recipes and warm hospitality going strong.
Whether you love hearty schnitzel, cold beer, or fresh-baked strudel, these spots deliver an experience that feels like stepping back in time. Pull up a chair and get ready to explore some of the best German dining traditions Texas has to offer.
Alpine Haus Restaurant – New Braunfels, Texas
Tucked in the heart of New Braunfels, Alpine Haus has been a go-to spot for German comfort food that feels genuinely homemade. The menu is loaded with classics like sauerbraten, bratwurst, and warm pretzels that keep regulars coming back season after season.
New Braunfels was founded by German immigrants in 1845, so eating here feels like honoring that legacy. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make every visit feel like a family dinner rather than just another meal out.
Krause’s Cafe – New Braunfels, Texas
Krause’s Cafe has been a New Braunfels landmark since 1938, making it one of the oldest German restaurants still running in Texas. Walking through its doors feels like flipping through a history book, with vintage decor and recipes that have barely changed in decades.
The outdoor beer garden is a favorite gathering spot, especially on warm evenings when live music fills the air. Order the pork schnitzel and a cold German lager for the full experience that loyal fans swear by.
The Auslander – Fredericksburg, Texas
Right on Main Street in Fredericksburg, The Auslander brings a festive, Oktoberfest-every-day vibe that is hard to match anywhere else in Texas. The word “Auslander” means “foreigner” in German, which is a playful nod to visitors who come from all over to enjoy authentic flavors.
Their biergarten is the stuff of legends, packed with long communal tables and cold German beers on tap. Try the smoked sausage plate or the Bavarian soft pretzel for a snack that pairs perfectly with the lively atmosphere.
Otto’s German Bistro – Fredericksburg, Texas
Otto’s German Bistro takes the traditional and gives it a polished, upscale twist that feels refreshingly modern without losing its roots. Chef Otto Hild brings authentic German training to every dish, and that expertise shows in the bold, carefully layered flavors on every plate.
Favorites like pan-roasted duck and house-made spaetzle make this spot stand out from more casual German joints. It is the kind of place where you slow down, savor every bite, and leave already planning your next visit.
Altdorf Biergarten – Fredericksburg, Texas
Altdorf Biergarten has a laid-back charm that makes it one of the most beloved spots in Fredericksburg for locals and tourists alike. Situated in a historic building dating back to the 1800s, the place carries a warmth that no amount of modern renovation could ever replicate.
Cold drafts, hearty sandwiches, and a shaded patio create the perfect afternoon escape. Whether you stop in for a quick bite or linger for hours, Altdorf has a way of making time slow down in the best possible way.
Der Lindenbaum – Fredericksburg, Texas
Named after the famous German folk song about a linden tree, Der Lindenbaum carries a quiet, sentimental spirit that sets it apart from louder, busier spots on the block. The menu leans into hearty German staples done with care, from beef rouladen to creamy potato soup.
Regulars often describe eating here as a deeply comforting experience, like being fed by someone who genuinely cares about the meal. Small details like handmade decor and seasonal specials show a dedication that goes beyond just running a restaurant.
Rathskeller Bistro – Fredericksburg, Texas
Rathskeller Bistro brings a cellar-style coziness to Fredericksburg that feels straight out of a German village tucked in the Alps. The name itself refers to a traditional German restaurant located below street level, and the underground ambiance here lives up to that old-world charm completely.
Hearty portions and an impressive beer selection make it a favorite for those who want a full, satisfying German meal. The staff are known for being warm and knowledgeable, happy to recommend dishes for first-timers exploring the menu.
Schilo’s – San Antonio, Texas
Schilo’s has been feeding San Antonio since 1917, earning its place as the oldest restaurant in the city and a true Texas treasure. Started by German immigrant Jake Schilo, this deli-style gem has served generations of families who keep coming back for the split pea soup and homemade root beer.
The no-frills setting and affordable prices make it accessible to everyone, which is a big part of why it has lasted over a century. Eating at Schilo’s is less about fine dining and more about connecting with a living piece of Texas history.
Bavarian Grill – Plano, Texas
Bavarian Grill in Plano proves that authentic German dining thrives well beyond the Hill Country, bringing a full Oktoberfest experience to the Dallas suburbs. Since opening in 1994, it has earned a loyal following thanks to its rotating selection of imported German beers and scratch-made dishes.
The pork knuckle and house-smoked meats are crowd favorites that regulars rave about constantly. Live accordion music on weekends adds an extra layer of fun, turning a simple dinner into a mini celebration that the whole family can enjoy.