Taste test: Old City Hall turns history into great dining
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The art deco pendant lights (left) in the bar are original. Photo: Madalyn Mendoza/Axios
Road tripping for dinner isn't my usual routine, but Old City Hall in New Braunfels is worth the trek up I-35.
Catch up quick: The latest restaurant from Wiggins Hospitality Group, the family-owned team behind McAdoo's Seafood Company and La Cosecha, opened in February.
- As the name suggests, it's housed in a nearly century-old building that once served as City Hall.
The vibe: I was surprised by how busy it was for a weeknight, especially for a city of its size. Every pocket of the sprawling space, from the main dining room to the bar to the patio, felt lively.
- The restaurant leans into its history with subtle nods to the past, like original tile floors and art deco pendant lighting, that give it a slightly museum-like feel.
- The menu focuses on American classics with an upscale touch.
What to try: The steak frites ($34) was perfectly prepared, but the real star was the herb and bourbon sauce it's served with. My friends even dipped their burgers in it. Who needs ketchup?
- The Tito's-based lemon drop ($16) comes topped with a limoncello cold foam that tastes like lemon meringue in a glass.
- For dessert, the sundae ($10) is a showstopper with a mound of housemade whipped cream, miso caramel and salty crushed pretzels over vanilla ice cream.
Six-word review: Rich and craveable, a unanimous yes.
Pro tip: Beat peak traffic and explore the town before dinner.