Collin Campion has called New Braunfels home for more than 10 years and has served as a chef at various restaurants around town. Now he says he is happy to have a restaurant of his own. After graduating from Texas State University, Campion realized his true passion was food and left San Marcos to attend culinary school in Austin. His restaurant, Texas Bistro at Park View, opened in New Braunfels in August 2018, and he said the last year has been a whirlwind of excitement. “This is what I’ve been working toward all these years,” Campion said. Texas Bistro offers classic American fare with a wide entree selection of salads, burgers, steaks, seafood, chicken and pork. Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday, and the restaurant has a fully stocked bar, including locally brewed draft beer. The menu was updated in mid-July with fresh summer vegetables, some of which were picked from the restaurant’s own garden. The restaurant has approximately 70 seats inside and 40 on the patio. Campion said he intentionally kept it small to get to know his customers. Additionally, the small kitchen has allowed him to meet guest’s specifications and given him the opportunity to build a small and impactful crew. A private room that can hold approximately 30 people sits on one end of the restaurant, and Campion allows guests to rent out the entire space for larger private events on Sundays and Mondays. “Gruene and the downtown area stay pretty busy with tourists, but we’re a little off the beaten path, and I think that’s one of the things that makes people love coming here,” said Campion. Of course, that is aside from the quality food and service Campion said. In the year since Texas Bistro opened, Campion said he is happy to finally branch out into the community a bit more, including some charitable work for Here for Heroes, a local nonprofit organization that offers financial assistance to military and first responders in need. On Aug. 31, the restaurant will be celebrating its one-year anniversary with live music and a party on the patio for guests and employees. Texas Bistro at Park View 1932 S. Seguin Ave., Ste. 209, New Braunfels 830-302-7538 www.txbistro.com Hours: Tue.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.