Tavern on Castell, a new bar and grill in downtown New Braunfels, opened its doors on March 27. The establishment took over the space previously occupied by Downtowner Bar & Kitchen, which closed at the end of December 2023.

Owned by Michelle Mathis-Lyons and Chip Lyons, Tavern on Castell offers a menu that blends traditional bar food with an upscale twist.

"We're a bar, with food,” Lyons said, explaining the establishment is a bar that serves high-quality food, rather than a restaurant that happens to serve drinks.

Meet the owners

The Lyons, who initially planned to move to Belize, found themselves drawn to the opportunity to start a business in New Braunfels.


“We saw potential in this location and decided to move forward with our plans for a restaurant,” Lyons said.

The Lyons updated the space, incorporating personal items like Michelle’s grandmother’s trunk and their own dining room hutch into the décor. “We wanted to make the space our own,” Lyons said.

On the menu

Patrons can enjoy dishes such as fish and chips, soups, salads, burgers, and brisket tacos, along with a selection of craft cocktails.


The menu at Tavern on Castell includes items like the signature burger made from a blend of sirloin, chuck, and rib-eye.

“We worked on getting the recipes right to ensure good quality,” Lyons said.

One more thing

Tavern on Castell also features local events and live music, aiming to serve as a community gathering spot, Lyons said.


"Having an artist come play in your living room for you is just badass, and that's what it feels like in [the music room]," Lyons said.

There are plans to add a patio area to expand the restaurant’s capacity by 2025, Lyons said. “We want to provide a place where people can come together and enjoy a good meal.”