When Chris talks about Gruene Grove, he doesn’t talk about the business plan. He gravitates to talking about how this historic place offers a sense of home. Of place. That feeling is part of what makes Gruene Grove so special. Tucked into one of the most historic corners of New Braunfels, the venue has grown into a gathering spot where live music, local history, and community spirit come together every day.
Chris and his business partner, Kyle, came upon the space in November 2017. What began as a simple opportunity quickly turned into something much bigger. Kyle first visited with plans tied to his ice cream business, but after hearing about the lease, the idea shifted fast. As Chris put it, “It was just like kismet. It was one of those special moments.” When Kyle asked, “Should we open a bar?” Chris did not hesitate. “Do it! Sign it now!”
That decision led to a place with a story of its own. Gruene Grove sits in the old Gruene family home, and honoring that history matters deeply to the team. As Chris shared, “We just love the history of it all.” He and his team even greet the home in the morning, a small but heartfelt way of showing respect for the space and its past.
For Chris, the heart of Gruene Grove is not only in its history but in the feeling guests carry home with them. “Y’all means all,” he said, describing a place built to welcome locals, visitors, families, and friends. He also summed up the venue in one simple phrase: “We’re selling margaritas and memories.” That spirit shows up in every corner of the property, from the drinks and food to the staff and music.
Live music remains a major part of the mission. Gruene Grove offers music seven days a week, which fits right into the larger rhythm of Gruene itself. Chris loves that the area is known for its music scene and says the goal was never to change Gruene, only to add to it. He sees the town as one of a kind. A place where river life, German roots, and world-class music all come together in a way no other town can quite match.
Some of the venue’s favorite events have become true community traditions. The Pup Parade brings in dogs dressed for the season and supports the Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area. Stray Dawg’s Blues Fest celebrates blues music and gives Texas artists a stage. The One S in New Braunfels Fest honors local pride and helps kick off Wurstfest season. Gruene Grove has also become a place people turn to during hard times, opening its doors for fundraisers, memorials, and relief efforts when the community needs it most.
What stands out most is the way Gruene Grove welcomes all ages. Families can come for ice cream, food, or a show, and kids can stand in front of the stage and watch live music up close. As Chris shared, “One of my favorite things to do is watching young kids stand in front of the stage. They will stand there, and they’re mesmerized.” It is the kind of place where young children may grow into future musicians and where memories are made without much effort at all.
We never wanted to change New Braunfels, only add to it.
We’re selling margaritas and memories. We know that we’re part of people’s vacations, and we know we’re part of people’s memories.