A Lavender Collins and a Topo Chico drink served fresh at Boerne’s private, members-only clubhouse, “The Oak.”
Mia Valdez/MySA
When I first moved to Boerne, I truly wondered whether the bedroom community even had a local bar scene to speak of. Sure, I knew about the five-star breweries and pubs that are popular for a day out on the town. But I had no idea whether Boerne, a city where retirees over 65 make up one of the largest age groups, had anything to do after 10 p.m.
After some late-night exploring, I found that Boerne does, in fact, have something for just about everyone. Whether you’re looking for an ice-cold beer, chilled cocktails, live music or a place to hang out with friends, Boerne’s bar scene is worth a visit when you’re looking for something out of the ordinary or just want to give the Broadway/St. Mary’s nightlife scene a break.
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Here are five chill bars and two cool “honorable mention” spots you really should check out in Boerne:
A beer flight from Richter Cork and Keg.
Amanda G./Yelp
Richter Tavern
This Main Street industrial building is home to one of Boerne’s favorite restaurants and bakeries, or “bakhauses,” and to “the oldest bar in the Texas Hill Country,” at least according to local lore. Richter Tavern, located on the second floor, is a chic, edgy 1920s-style dive. Though the building itself is new, the literal slab of wood on which drinks are served is an old, ornate “solid-cherry wooden bar” that has survived for more than 150 years, serving some of Boerne’s original drinkers. Richter Tavern is known for its custom cocktails, margaritas and martinis. It also serves beer and wine and has a seasonal menu.
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Check out the cherry limeade margarita or the mimosa flights!
Location: 153 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006
Indulge Wine Bar
This upscale wine lounge has an extensive wine selection, a warm atmosphere and a pretty sophisticated vibe. Located inside the Finishing Touches interior design firm, it’s no wonder you feel like you’re inside a piece of art while sipping from sophisticated wine glasses. From its wine-themed bathrooms to its matte-black finishes, everything about Indulge feels crisp and elegant. You can also enjoy a drink outdoors on the pet-friendly patio.
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Location: 21 Truss Dr, Boerne, TX 78006
As espresso martinin from The Oak in Boerne.
Mia Valdez/MySA
The Oak of Boerne
The Oak of Boerne is a refined spot with a nice cocktail menu, a cigar lounge and live music. Typically reserved for a select group of invited locals, the clubhouse is also open to visitors who can purchase a day pass. On my visit, I browsed cigars, listened to jazz and enjoyed Hemingway Library’s manly-inspired decor. There’s also a mahogany card table, and traditional barber services are available.
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Location: 605 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006
Salvador DOBBS
Salvador Dobbs, described as one of the liveliest bars in town, is open until midnight every day and offers live music, karaoke and entertainment on the banks of Cibolo Creek. DOBBS, inspired by owner Veronica Mazal Brown’s mother’s Little Gretel Restaurant, was once home to another Boerne staple, the German toy and knitting shop Ewe & Eye. For the most part, this bar is where locals come together for live entertainment. There’s a pool table, shuffleboard, cornhole, darts and plenty of dancing.
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Location: 512 River Rd, Boerne, TX 78006
Twelve to Twelve is a cozy new speakeasy bar in Boerne, Texas.
Courtesy of Twelve to Twelve Speakeasy
Twelve to Twelve
The vibes here are laid-back yet very stylish and chic. The Twelve to Twelve speakeasy is a mixology bar that is inspired by a touch of Mexico City’s dazzling cultural ambiance, according to owner Patricio Penalosa.
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The bar’s name is a nod to its hours of service. Twelve to Twelve operates from noon until midnight once it opens. The bar will eventually include expanded food options, with tacos and a food truck in the works.
Penalosa says customers can enjoy Boerne’s local comforts with a dash of the international charm of his hometown.
Location: 1491 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006
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Honorable mention:
Bettina’s Sailing Club
This seasonal pop-up bar activates twice a year — once in the summer as a tiki bar, and another every Christmas, as a vintage “Frosted Jack” lounge.
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Longbranch Saloon
This saloon-style bar is the spot to check out if you want to drink like a local, enjoy the dance floor and listen to music from a jukebox.