Krause’s is a German restaurant and Biergarten in New Braunfels, Texas, that’s famous for its authentic German food and lively atmosphere. It’s a local favorite and a popular spot for tourists, too.
This article provides a thorough overview of the Krause’s experience, focusing on the menu, the restaurant’s unique vibe, and what you can expect as a customer. We’ll dive deep into the Krause’s menu, highlighting some must-try dishes. We’ll also explore the ambiance, the quality of the service, and what other customers are saying about their time at Krause’s.
What are some menu highlights at Krause’s?
Krause’s menu is a celebration of German comfort food with a few Texas twists thrown in for good measure. If you’re planning a visit, here are some items you might want to consider.
Appetizers and Starters
No trip to Krause’s is complete without trying the Famous Pretzel. It’s a massive, shareable soft pretzel served with creamy beer cheese and tangy mustard for dipping. It’s a perennial customer favorite for a reason!
Another popular starter is the Reuben Fries. Imagine a plate of crispy fries loaded with all the classic Reuben sandwich fixings: corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a generous drizzle of Thousand Island dressing. It’s a delicious, decadent, and totally shareable starter.
Main Courses: A Taste of Germany
You can’t go wrong with any of Krause’s Schnitzel variations. Whether you opt for the classic pork schnitzel, the chicken schnitzel, or even a vegetarian version, you’re in for a treat. Each schnitzel is perfectly breaded and pan-fried to a golden-brown crisp, and then topped with your choice of sauce and toppings. Don’t be afraid to try something new!
While Krause’s is known for its German fare, their burgers are surprisingly good. They’re made with high-quality beef and served on a toasted bun with all the classic toppings. The Krause’s Burger and the Bacon Cheeseburger are both solid choices.
For the adventurous eater, the Wild Game Sampler is a must-try. This unique dish features a selection of locally sourced wild game meats, such as venison sausage, wild boar, and duck. It’s a great way to experience the flavors of the Texas Hill Country.
Drinks and Beverages
Krause’s boasts an impressive selection of German beers, both on tap and in bottles. From light and refreshing pilsners to rich and malty bocks, there’s a beer for every taste. Warsteiner Dunkel is a dark beer that’s a customer favorite.
If beer isn’t your thing, Krause’s also offers a selection of craft cocktails. These carefully crafted drinks feature fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
Krause’s vibe: Ambiance and atmosphere
Krause’s isn’t just about the food; it’s about the whole experience. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a lively, welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to settle in and stay a while.
Indoor and outdoor seating
Krause’s offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, each with its own unique appeal. The outdoor Biergarten is a sprawling, festive space perfect for families and groups. The kids can run around while the adults relax and enjoy a cold beer. String lights twinkle overhead, creating a magical ambiance as the sun goes down.
Inside, the dining area is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and cozy lighting. The interior design pays homage to Krause’s German heritage, with vintage photographs and traditional décor adding to the charm.
Live music and entertainment
Krause’s is known for its live music, which adds to the already vibrant atmosphere. On most nights, you can catch a local band playing a mix of German folk music, classic rock, and country tunes. The music isn’t too loud, so you can still have a conversation, but it definitely adds to the fun and energy of the place.
Overall vibe
Overall, Krause’s has a family-friendly and lively vibe that makes it a great place to gather with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a fun dinner, or a place to celebrate a special occasion, Krause’s is sure to deliver a memorable experience.
Customer Service: A Mixed Bag
You’ll find plenty of opinions about Krause’s customer service, and they don’t always agree. Some customers rave about the friendly and attentive servers who go the extra mile to make their experience memorable. Others, however, tell a different story.
Positive Interactions
Many customers report having servers who are genuinely attentive and friendly, anticipating needs and offering helpful suggestions. These positive experiences often lead to repeat visits and glowing reviews.
Negative Interactions
On the other hand, some customers have reported slow or even rude service. Some have mentioned that their requests for simple meal exchanges were refused. Others have described feeling poorly treated by staff. These negative experiences can significantly impact a customer’s overall impression of Krause’s.
The Owner’s Response
One thing that stands out is the owner’s active engagement with online reviews. They consistently respond to both positive and negative feedback, demonstrating a commitment to addressing customer concerns and continuously improving the dining experience. This willingness to acknowledge and rectify issues suggests a dedication to providing quality service, even when things don’t go perfectly.
What are people saying about Krause’s?
No restaurant review is complete without a look at what other diners are saying! Here’s a summary of opinions about Krause’s:
Overall Sentiment
The majority of reviews focus on the quality of the food, and most people agree that Krause’s delivers on that front. Service, however, seems to be a bit more hit-or-miss.
What People Love
- Food Quality: Diners consistently rave about the taste and quality of the food. From the sausages to the schnitzel, people seem to be impressed with the authentic German flavors.
- Atmosphere: Many comment on the lively and welcoming atmosphere, making Krause’s a great spot for a fun night out. The oompah music and communal tables definitely add to the festive vibe.
Areas for Improvement
- Service Inconsistencies: One of the most common complaints is slow or unfriendly service. While some servers are praised, others seem to struggle with attentiveness and efficiency.
Based on customer feedback, Krause’s could improve by focusing on consistency in their service. Addressing these concerns could elevate the dining experience to match the high quality of the food.
Final Thoughts
Krause’s is a New Braunfels institution for a reason: it delivers excellent German food in a lively, beer-garden-like atmosphere. It’s a popular spot and a key part of the local dining scene.
However, customer service experiences can be inconsistent. Addressing these inconsistencies would go a long way toward improving overall customer satisfaction. Good food and a fun atmosphere can only take you so far if the service isn’t up to par.
Krause’s has the potential to be even more beloved if it can smooth out those rough edges. Its appeal is undeniable, and with a few tweaks, it could easily solidify its place as the go-to destination in New Braunfels for German food and good times.