The Iron Horse Bar & Grill has been a staple in New Braunfels for decades, Owner Brian Smith said.

When he took ownership of the restaurant in 2021, he wanted to keep the restaurant’s original vision while also giving it a refresh.

“It’s a place where people go to and know what to expect,” Smith said. “But we wanted to refine some of its attributes."

The local impact
Brian Smith said he took over the Iron Horse back in 2021, giving it a refreshed look. (Andrew Creelman/Community Impact)
Iron Horse Bar & Grill is owned by Brian Smith. (Andrew Creelman/Community Impact)
Smith said he used to own a few corporate restaurants in Central Texas, but left them behind to pursue a more personal and meaningful venture at the Iron Horse.

“There’s a little more freedom and individualism, but there’s also a lot more responsibility,” Smith said.


Since becoming the new owner of Iron Horse, Smith said he’s felt a true connection to not just the local community in New Braunfels, but also its historical heritage.

“It’s basically a representation of the close-knit community in New Braunfels,” Smith said. “We keep the feeling that the German settlers who established New Braunfels had envisioned themselves.”

Main course
Iron Horse offers a plethora of speciality burgers, ranging from The Bossman ($13.99) to a classic Double Double ($15.99). (Courtesy Iron Horse Bar & Grill)
Iron Horse serves speciality burgers such as The Bossman ($13.99) and a classic Double Double ($15.99). (Courtesy Iron Horse Bar & Grill)
Although the Iron Horse menu has deli sandwiches, soups, salads and Tex-Mex classics. The restaurant also offers specialty burgers such as the Gouda Bacon Burger which is topped with melted gouda and crispy bacon along with The Bossman which has grilled onions, a fried egg, bacon and jalapeños.

Another specialty burger Iron Horse is known for is its tropical 808 Hawaiian burger which is garnished with pineapple and teriyaki sauce.


One more thing

Smith plans on keeping the Iron Horse a consistent place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy an evening out or a lunch in town.

“We’re here, and we’re not going anywhere,” he said.