If you’ve lived in this part of Texas for any length of time, chances are pretty high you’ve made the drive east or west on Interstate 10 to or from Houston. On that drive, you’ve surely passed through a town that predates the Republic of Texas by three years.
Founded in 1833 and renamed after the hero of the Texas Revolution, Juan N. Seguin, in 1839, the town is steeped in history and culture. Just an hour away from the Alamo City, Seguin has a lot more to offer than just being a pitstop before you get to Buc-ee’s in Luling.
Founded in 1833 and renamed after the hero of the Texas Revolution, Juan N. Seguin, in 1839, the town is steeped in history and culture (Eric Moreno for MySA)
Things to do in Seguin, Texas
Like a lot of great small towns in Texas, Seguin was originally organized around its downtown square; go there first and visit one of the town’s many green spaces, Central Park on the Square. Weather permitting, of course, visit the fountain, historic bandstand, and statue of the town’s namesake. Stop and sit on a bench, watch some of the squirrels, and just take it all in. The view gives visitors a peek at what Seguin has to offer.
Up and down Austin Street is a cornucopia of shopping opportunities, ranging from boutique shops to antique stores. Spots like Southern Good and Austin Street Vintage give visitors the perfect chance to find that one-of-a-kind gift or keepsake. Looking for an antique, working typewriter, or a shirt or blouse that gives off the perfect country core vibes? They got you.
Off the square, you’ll find spots like Guadalupe Trading Co. and Artable Curiosities. These shops give visitors a chance to purchase truly bespoke, unique, and handmade items that you never knew you wanted, such as handmade cutting boards, upcycled craft goods, and original pieces of art.
Brisket and sausage plate at Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin. (Eric Moreno for MySA)
What to eat in Seguin, Texas?
In the midst of the pandemic, competition-winning pitmasters Ernest Servantes and Dave Kirkland had the crazy idea of opening up a brick-and-mortar restaurant. Fast-forward to the present day, and the Burnt Bean Co. is one of the most celebrated spots for ‘cue in the state.
I’ve read the articles and seen the clips on TV and online touting the culinary brilliance (they have a Michelin star, so this is not hyperbole) of the Burnt Bean, and felt it was high time to make the pilgrimage and see it for myself.
After an hour-long wait, I ordered a half-pound of brisket, pork spare ribs, and their El Cinco blend sausage (poblano peppers and pepper jack cheese, if you please), along with their version of cowboy beans and a side called bacon ranch taters that was sneakily good. The brisket was divine – melt-in-your-mouth perfection that outshined even the tender ribs and smoky sausage. Simply, a chef’s kiss.
Long line at Burnt Bean Co. (Eric Moreno for MySA)
Inside Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin, Texas. (Eric Moreno for MySA)
There are other great dining spots in Seguin. I highly recommend the 1838 Grill and the Powerplant Texas Grill, both of which offer a beautiful view of the Guadalupe River. When that I-10 traffic gets to you on your next trip to H-Town, and it will, pull off in Seguin. Do some exploring and have your life changed by their barbecue.
This article originally published at I waited an hour for barbecue in a tiny Texas town – and I finally get the hype.