Fredericksburg may be a small town, but it’s big on flavor, boasting some of the best restaurants in Fredericksburg, TX. While its German roots mean you’re in for a hearty dose of German influence that’ll have you coming back for seconds, it’s also home to some of the best BBQ joints this side of the Mississippi. I’m talking tender brisket, smoky ribs, and all the fixings you could dream of.
From mouthwatering schnitzels to creamy potato salads and warm pretzels, German influence is reflected in every bite in Fredericksburg. And don’t get me started on the mouthwatering pies and pastries you’ll find at every turn. It’s enough to make a Texan’s heart sing!
And once you’ve had your fill, remember that there are plenty of fun things to do in Fredericksburg to round out your visit!
WHAT FOOD IS FREDERICKSBURG FAMOUS FOR?
Fredericksburg is famous for its authentic German cuisine and diverse culinary scene. From Otto’s German Bistro to the mouthwatering German dishes at Der Lindenbaum, you’ll find something for every palate. Aside from German cuisine, many restaurants serve Mexican, Spanish, Italian, and American favorites, while bakeries tempt you with scones, turnovers, pies, pastries, freshly baked signature cookies, and kolaches.
Additionally, with a deep agricultural heritage and some of the premier farms, orchards, and wineries around, farm-to-table dining is a way of life in Fredericksburg. So come hungry and leave happy – this town won’t disappoint!
If you ever crave some delicious eating and a taste of Texas hospitality, do yourself a favor and head down to Fredericksburg. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
BEST RESTAURANTS IN DOWNTOWN FREDERICKSBURG
Clear River Ice Cream And Bakery
Step back in time at Clear River Ice Cream Bakery and Deli in downtown Fredericksburg. The unique location has a historical feel and offers 35 different flavors of delicious homemade ice cream each day, fresh-baked goods, and deli sandwiches. We love the vibe here, with a huge selection of ice cream made with fresh fruits and nuts. Although they’re known for their sundaes, they also have a huge menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, and a large bakery cabinet.
If you visit them in the morning, don’t miss out on their breakfast goodies, including scones, turnovers, and kolaches. If you or one of your little ones is a cookie monster, munch on their extensive variety of freshly baked cookies, and with so many flavors, it is hard to decide which one to skip. Some of them are Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, Peanut Butter, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, and hand decorated Sugar Cookies.
Got a sweet tooth? Don’t even think that this award-winning ice cream parlor will disappoint you. Their menu features a wide range of sweet treats, including Brownies, Coconut Macaroons, Apple Strudel, Lemon Squares, Crocodiles, Pecan Pie Bars, Gooey Cheesecake Slices, and Peach Cobbler to curb your sweet cravings.
Twisted Sisters Bake Shop
Founded in 2015 on Main Street, Fredericksburg, Twisted Sisters Bake Shop is a great place to get your daily caffeine fix and enjoy a snack or two. Their locally sourced coffee comes from the finest roasters in Texas – Texas Coffee Traders and Fredericksburg Coffee Company. Caffeine addicts are more than welcome with a variety of flavored coffees, energy lemonades, smoothies, iced teas, milk teas, and hot cocoa.
And not just the coffee; this charming eatery leaves you in awe with its diverse menu offerings. Breakfast tacos, cinnamon rolls, bundt cakes, and muffins are some of my favorites. But wait, there’s more! You absolutely cannot miss out on their fruity pebbles and cinnamon toast crunch crushed cereal milk lattes – they’re truly out of this world! And make sure to save room for their unforgettable large cinnamon rolls – they’re worth every calorie!
Hill Country Chocolate
Want a real-life experience of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”? Head over to Hill Country Chocolate for a premiere Wine & Chocolate Experience in the heart of Texas Hill Country.
With an array of European and American treats, Hill Country Chocolate is a chocolate lover’s paradise. Homemade Peanut Brittle Combo, Dark Chocolate Pecan Butter Toffee, and Signature Hand-painted Chocolates are some of the highlights that can make you drool.
They are featured in Texas Monthly and D-Magazine, have over 100 5-star Reviews, and are recognized as one of the top 50 date night destinations in Austin Monthly.
Not only can you witness their amazing chocolate production through large, floor-to-ceiling windows, but you can also indulge in their mouth-watering confections while sipping on the wine that pairs perfectly with each one. And if that’s not enough, they even have a Retail Store where you can shop for their delicious treats. Oh, and did I mention their two-story Tasting Room? It’s the perfect spot to kick back and relax while enjoying their gourmet confections. Trust me, this is a one-of-a-kind experience you don’t want to miss!
Vaudeville
When it comes to exceptional fine dining in Fredericksburg, Vaudeville is the name that often springs to mind. Renowned for its cozy ambiance, Vaudeville bistro menu offers a delightful lunch or dinner experience, featuring delectable dishes such as duck confit, braised akaushi beef, a mouthwatering French dip sandwich, and wood-fired artisanal pizzas.
As a wine enthusiast, what keeps me coming to Vaudeville is its extensive wine list, which offers something for everyone. Additionally, they offer a prix-fixe menu that is required for groups of 6 or more.
The charming courtyard has been exclusively dedicated to The V Supper Club, a premier dining destination that promises to offer a sophisticated culinary experience. It also welcomes private functions and special events, providing a perfect ambiance to make your special occasions unforgettable.
Eaker Barbecue
For the ultimate BBQ experience, you simply cannot miss out on Eaker Barbecue. It has rightfully earned its place as one of Texas Monthly’s top 50 picks in 2021, which is a testament to its exceptional service. Eaker Barbecue offers a delightful blend of Texas and Korean fusion cuisine, courtesy of the talented, Texas-born-and-bred Lance and his loving wife, Boo. Prepare to indulge in mesquite-smoked meats, accompanied by a side of fresh, homemade kimchi and mom’s potato salad prepared daily.
In addition to the classic favorites like prime brisket house-made jalapeño and cheddar sausage, Eaker Barbecue also offers tempting options such as gochujang glazed pork ribs, kimchi fried rice, loaded cucumber salad, creamed corn, and mac n cheese. Keep an eye on their social media for special treats like Texas Twinkies and beef bulgogi, which are available on select days. With a diverse menu offering vegan, gluten-free, and non-veg, Eaker Barbecue is a great place for dinner with your whole family to cater to various dietary preferences.
And not just limited to great food, Eaker Barbecue also offers a tempting selection of desserts, including our personal favorite, the boozy bourbon banana pudding, and, let’s not forget, the delectable pecan pie bar.
Münch Food Truck Park
Sometimes, the hardest part about traveling with large groups is keeping everyone happy when it comes to food. That’s what makes Münch Food Truck Park so convenient. There are multiple food trucks with lots of outdoor seating, a bar, a kid’s playground, and live music regularly playing.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, they’ve got an impressive selection of local wines, as well as some top-notch bottles from all around the globe. And if beer is more your thing, they’ve got you covered with a fantastic variety of local, domestic, and international brews. Make sure to mark your calendar for Thursday-Saturday evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. to stop by for a drink or two when the bar onsite is open.
Burger Burger
My husband loves to try burgers everywhere we go (by the end of my Texas Travel Series, I will have a compilation of the best burgers in Texas), so of course, we had to stop for burgers at Burger Burger, located just a stroll down historic Main Street.
What I loved about this place was its clean, contemporary dining room and relaxing outdoor courtyard, both with a West Coast flair. With a blend of daytime “family eat-in service” and evening “patio sipping,” Burger Burger is both family-friendly and elegant.
You won’t regret giving Burger Burger a try, biting on their snacks made with the freshest ingredients, including house-made pickles, hand-cut fries, and grass-fed beef. And if that’s not enough, they also have a full bar and draft beer selection on their climate-controlled patio. But wait, there’s more! Don’t miss their breaded jalapeño coins, green chile queso fries, or the bad mother clucker – all served with their delicious house-crafted sauces.
BEST GERMAN FOOD IN FREDERICKSBURG
From classic German food to a more modern take, you can stay in Fredericksburg and spend the whole time simply tasting different German cuisines. Below are my favorites!
Otto’s German Bistro
Dining at Otto’s German bistro is a fantastic option if you’re looking for an upscale dining option with authentic German food. Their menu changes seasonally, so you can expect a unique experience each time you visit. They serve modern twists on German cuisine and source local quality meat.
For the main course, you can have duck schnitzel and chicken paprikash, while on the appetizer menu, they have some great salads and a flammkuchen (a house-made flatbread). We’re also big fans of their Sunday brunch which has a great selection of typical favorites and unique mixes, including cinnamon rolls, spinach artichoke toast and cambozola cheesecake.
Being one of the first restaurants to introduce farm-to-table German cuisine to the Texas Hill Country in July 2013, Otto’s menu also explores the delectable cuisines of Alsace, Northern Italy, and Texas! Plus, its late-night hours and seven-day schedule make it a perfect place for an intimate romantic dinner or a hotspot of weekend fun for the entire family.
Der Lindenbaum
For authentic German cuisine, make your way to Der Lindenbaum! This captivating historical limestone building was built by early German immigrants over a century ago. Located on Main Street, this historical establishment is famous for its cozy, comfortable environment and delectable cuisine.
What sets it apart is the wide array of German delicacies beyond the traditional Schnitzel typically found in German restaurants. From the tantalizing Curry-Huhn (curried chicken) to the succulent Gulasch (Spicy stewed beef) and mouthwatering Schweinekotelett (pork chop in mustard sauce), served by chef/owner Ingrid Hohmann, Der Lindenbaum’s menu has something to delight every palate.
With an impressive assortment of German beers, a delightful array of German and Texas wines, mouth-watering desserts, and top-notch coffee and tea, there’s no doubt that you will have a very good time at Der Lindenbaum. Due to its popularity, this eatery tends to fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to make reservations, especially for weekend visits.
Old German Bakery and Restaurant
For the best breakfast and lunch in Fredericksburg, TX. Old German Bakery and Restaurant is hard to beat. This family-owned and operated restaurant and bakery makes food from scratch with traditional German recipes.
Start your day off right with their delicious eggs, omelets, German pancakes, or waffles, all cooked to perfection. And don’t forget to pair it with their freshly brewed coffee, which will leave you feeling energized and ready for the day.
They also offer daily lunch specials that include everything from appetizers and salads to sandwiches and burgers. And for those with bigger appetites, their specialties and entrees will not disappoint.
But who is the real star of the show? Their freshly baked bread is so yummy, you’ll want to take some home with you. Just be aware that reservations aren’t allowed, and if you have a larger group, you may need to split up due to limited seating.
Related Posts: Fredericksburg Winery Experiences You Don’t Want to Miss
BEST RESTAURANTS ON THE 290 WINE TRAIL
Alstadt Brewery
There are more than just wineries on the 290-wine trail, and one of our favorite non-wine spots is Altstadt Brewery, where they take making authentic German beer seriously. Get a taste of Germany with Bavarian pretzels, schnitzels, sausage on sticks, and other German favorites alongside the purest and easiest-drinking German beers.
If you’re a fan of cold brews, you need to check out Alstadt Brewery’s impressive beer collection! From their perfectly crafted German IPA and Schwarzbeer to the refreshing German Pils, they have it all. And let’s not forget about their signature Santiago beer, named after talented brewer Carlos Santiago.
They also have an all-inclusive German restaurant with an outdoor patio offering a large selection of handheld sandwiches/burgers, flammkuchen, Bavarian pretzels, steaks, and salads in their menu. Why stop there? Visit for a brunch on Sundays from 11am to 3pm for a classic egg-bacon breakfast, crispy chicken and waffles, massive michelada Grande or brioche French toast.
This 120-acre Old World destination has everything you need to make your Texas Hill Country experience unforgettable. Want to explore the art of beer brewing? Take a tour on Thursday or Friday! You can also indulge in a scrumptious Sunday brunch here with your loved ones. Don’t forget to make reservations for groups of 10 or more!
Visit the Tractor Museum!
After you are done with your food and wine at Alstadt, let’s learn history lessons at the Tractor Museum onsite. It’s an amazing owner’s collection of steam engine tractors over a hundred years old! What’s even more impressive is that they still do oil changes and maintenance to ensure they still start. And the best part? It’s completely free to visit!
And if you are looking for budget-friendly wine tastings, mark your calendars for every Wednesday and Thursday from 3-6 pm for Altstadt Happy Hours. For just $3, you can enjoy a refreshing draft pint of your choice. Want something more sophisticated? Try their house wine for $5. And if you’re feeling peckish, $7 appetizers & Growler Refills are the perfect way to indulge your taste buds.
Kuhlman Cellars
Located between Fredericksburg and Johnson City, Kuhlman Cellars is a boutique winery on the Hwy 290 wine trail. In addition to its unique wine and food experience, it also has an incredible bistro where you can enjoy favorites such as house-made beet hummus, turkey and brie baguettes, and their deconstructed meatball sandwich.
Another thing we like is that even if you can’t do their wine and food pairing, they have a sampler of what’s provided in that experience on their menu. Additionally, they are known for their herb almonds with herbs ‘d Provence, which people are so obsessed with, and they are totally worth the hype.
Barons Creek Vineyard
When it comes to wood-fired pizzas, look no further than Barons Creek Vineyard. They offer an exceptional selection of flavors, ranging from the delightful Mediterranean with sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes to timeless classics like margherita and pepperoni. Additionally, they provide options such as hummus and charcuterie boards to complement your dining experience.
Signor Creek Vineyards
Located in the rolling hills of Central Texas, Signor Creek Vineyards is a stunning destination featuring Joanna’s Market, offering convenient grab-and-go options like muffalettas, turkey and brie sandwiches, homemade chicken salad, and bottled beverages. What makes this destination stand out is its fun atmosphere, where you can enjoy your meal at a picnic table amidst the shaded trees or right by the vineyards.
Moreover, Signor offers exquisite charcuterie spreads, offering a delicious selection of three exquisite meats and cheeses, complemented by a variety of nuts, fresh and dried fruits, crackers, and locally made jams. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available with 24 hours’ notice.
Texas Wine Collective
Texas Wine Collective is proud to house Hye Thai, an exceptional Asian fusion spot offering a delectable menu. Indulge in mouthwatering options like pork belly buns, lumpia, and flavorful curry dishes. Adding to its charm, Hye Thai features a charming red double-decker bus where they aspire to serve their delightful cuisine.
Stout’s Signature
Stout’s Signature is an exquisite upscale dining option nestled within Grape Creek Vineyards. Although exclusive to wine club members, the experience is well worth it. Indulge in their delectable menu offerings, including crispy calamari, signature meatballs, or duck wings. For lunch, they offer a delightful selection of hand-toasted pizzas, signature pies, salads, and sandwiches.
Their dinner menu is the epitome of gourmet dining, offering some top-notch main entrées, including roasted duck breast, prosciutto-wrapped chicken, and lemon dill shrimp pasta. But the real treat lies in their Sunday brunch menu, featuring mouthwatering dishes like pumpkin French toast, savory chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, a tantalizing breakfast burger, and a variety of other delicious breakfast delights.
Golds Orchard
As a family-run business in Stonewall, TX, Golds Orchard offers a delightful experience for peach lovers. With a wide range of offerings, including seasonal peaches, plums, peach ice cream, and cobblers straight from the oven, Golds Orchard is an ideal spot for a peach picnic.
Additionally, there is a convenient food truck on-site, serving up a delectable array of breakfast tacos, burgers, chicken, and more. Now, here’s a pro tip for peach enthusiasts! Indulge in a mouthwatering peach burger by pairing a burger from the food truck with some exquisite peach preserves from Gold’s.
To complete your peach-filled experience, don’t forget to savor some refreshing peach cider, relish peach bread for breakfast, and treat yourself to a heavenly slice of peach pie topped with luscious peach ice cream. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to miss out on that slice of pie!
OTHER FREDERICKSBURG TEXAS RESTAURANTS
Hilltop Cafe
While off the beaten path, Hilltop Cafe makes for the perfect stop with its unique old filling station exterior and cozy country exterior. They regularly host live music and other special events.
Despite being a seemingly small country cafe, they offer big flavors of exciting Southern comfort options like Southern Fried Mississippi Catfish, Port Arthur Style Shrimp Gumbo, chicken fried steak, and even escargot. They also offer a fun Sunday brunch menu with a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and beverages.
Woerner Warehouse
Woerner Warehouse Café + Catering is a hidden gem of Fredericksburg restaurants, nestled inside the historic Woerner Feed Store, where Chef Angela creates mouthwatering dishes that will leave you wanting more.
From fresh salads and soups to jaw-dropping sandwiches, everything in their menu is prepared at the peak of flavor. And don’t worry if you have dietary restrictions – gluten-free breads and vegetarian options are always on the menu!
With a breakfast menu that boasts delicious delights like avocado toast, bagel sandwiches, and signature specials such as smoked salmon plates and fresh quiche, you’re sure to start your day off on the right foot. And when lunchtime rolls around, Woerner Warehouse really turns up the heat! You’ll be spoiled for choice with their mouthwatering pizza flavors, panini sandwiches, Woerner combos, deli sandwiches, and kids’ meals.
And for the coffee fanatics, Woerner Warehouse knows best how to satisfy even the most intense caffeine cravings with a full espresso bar featuring all your favorite flavors.
Bryan’s on 290
Now, this place is in Johnson City. However, I decided to add it because, on my way out of Fredericksburg, I usually like to hit up a couple of wineries, and eating at Bryan’s on 290 is the perfect way to end your wine trail tour.
First off, I must describe how incredible the service is. It was chilly because we visited Fredericksburg in the winter. I asked the waitress if they had some mulled wine. It turns out they didn’t, which wasn’t a problem, but out comes the chef, who insists on making me some fresh mulled wine! How incredible is that!?
I spoke to the waitress more, and she said it’s very common for the chef to go out of his way to provide an incredible experience for guests. They don’t have a freezer to ensure the highest quality of fresh ingredients, but one day, some kids wanted ice cream, and they drove across the street to pick it up from the store just for them. You really can’t beat that level of service, and their food menu is just as good.
I ordered the Asian-glazed pork loin with pineapple scallion fried rice. My husband ordered Bryan’s half chicken with an orange cilantro lime glaze and smoked Gouda mac and cheese. The worst part was when it was over because every bite was jam-packed with flavors that complimented each other.
This small place is one of the best restaurants in Fredericksburg Tx and a must-stop on your wine trail.
Related Posts: Breakfast with a Vineyard Near Fredericksburg
BEST 20+ FOOD AND RESTAURANTS IN FREDERICKSBURG TEXAS: FINAL THOUGHTS
Fredericksburg is a destination for foodies as much as it is a destination for couples, wine lovers, and anyone else who loves to travel. Don’t forget to also check out all of the fun things there are to do in Fredericksburg.
Well, folks, as I hang up my hat and bid farewell to another memorable trip to Fredericksburg, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible culinary journey I’ve just experienced. From German cuisine to mouthwatering BBQ joints and everything in between, one thing’s for sure: Fredericksburg’s best restaurants are a true testament to Texas hospitality.
So, until next time, keep exploring and keep those taste buds tingling!
Last Updated 7 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 20, 2024
