Brian Smith, the owner of Iron Horse Bar & Grill, has been a driving force behind the transformation of this historic establishment in New Braunfels, Texas. With a rich background in the restaurant industry, Brian's journey to Iron Horse has been marked by significant milestones, from his early days working at local Austin eateries in the 1990s to franchising Golden Corral restaurants and eventually purchasing Iron Horse in March 2022.
Upon acquiring the Iron Horse Bar & Grill, Brian faced the challenge of revitalizing a restaurant that had lost some of its family-friendly appeal over the years. He recognized the potential in its deep-rooted history and unique location. Still, he knew it needed a fresh approach to reclaim its place as a community staple. Under his ownership, the establishment has undergone significant renovations, including adding a beer garden and upgraded outdoor seating. The goal has been to modernize the space while preserving its historic charm, ensuring it remains a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
Brian's vision for Iron Horse extends beyond just physical upgrades. He has focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere for families, a notable shift from its previous reputation. "When I purchased the property, it wasn't like this at all," Brian reflects, highlighting the efforts to bring back a family-friendly environment. This has included adding amenities like a playground and organizing events that cater to all ages.
Live music is another cornerstone of Brian's strategy to revive Iron Horse. The venue has reestablished itself as a local music hub, hosting acts like Two Tons of Steel and partnering with organizations such as the German American Society to offer unique cultural experiences. These efforts have attracted a diverse crowd and reinforced Iron Horse's identity as a community gathering place.
In the future, Brian envisions expanding the Iron Horse concept to other locations, particularly in Hill Country and possibly San Antonio. His aim is to replicate Iron Horse's success by maintaining its core values of community, heritage, and quality service while adapting to new markets.
Brian Smith has made substantial strides in rejuvenating Iron Horse Bar & Grill in a short time. His blend of respect for tradition and innovative improvements ensures that this iconic venue will continue to thrive for years to come.
Iron Horse Bar & Grill - 1030 N business i-35, New Braunfels, TX
https://ironhorsegrillnbtx.com/
Brian enjoys hearing stories about people coming here when they were kids and now they're full grown adults and bringing back their kids.