We have our fair share of historic restaurants here in TX, but one rises above all the rest: Scholz Garten in Austin, Texas. And as the oldest restaurant in Texas, it’s a must-visit. Scholz has been around since 1866, and its history is so rich that you can almost feel the years of memories made here over the years. If you’re looking for a restaurant with character, scrumptious Texan and German cuisine, and a friendly atmosphere, this is definitely the place for you.

August Scholz, a German immigrant and Civil War vet, established the restaurant the very year following the war's end.
Scholz Garten
His intention was for it to serve as simply a meeting place for the Germans of Austin, but it quickly evolved into a social gathering hub and favorite eatery for all.
He operated the restaurant until his death in 1891, when the honor passed to his stepson and later to the Lemp Brewery Company.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
In 1908, German singing club Austin Saengerrunde purchased the restaurant and built an adjacent bowling alley that's still in operation.
The UT football team celebrated its first undefeated season here in 1893, a tradition that has lived on over the years.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
Today, Scholz Garten looks much the same as it did all those years ago, save for a few necessary renovations and facelifts.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
In fact, one of the previous owners was almost run out of town for trying to change it too much!
Chris Owens/GoogleMaps

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Scholz earned a rightful place on the list of Texas Historic Landmarks in 1967.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
Boy, does this place have a rich history and plenty of stories to tell - it was a popular site for political debates and even college political science classes back in the day. Some of the debates were even broadcast on radio stations!
Scholz Garten/Facebook
Today, live music, special events, Oktoberfests, and more find a home here.
And let's not forget the food. Nobody can resist a fluffy, warm soft pretzel with cheese dip and Dijon mustard.
YT/GoogleMaps
Of course, you'll also find a wide variety of authentic eats here; the Scholz Garten menu is packed with classic eats! If you're craving some crispy and flavorful schnitzel, this is the place to go.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
But options are as diverse as they are delicious! Sink your teeth into some magnificent chicken fried chicken and fried okra, for starters.
You can also opt for modern twists on old favorites, like German goulash or German dip...or something a little more upscale, like the Burrata Tomatensalat with heirloom tomatoes.
Scholz Garten/Facebook
All in all, Scholz Garten is an amazing place to experience history, great food, and German heritage, and everyone should have the opportunity to visit Texas' oldest restaurant at least once. So sidle up, grab a stein, order a brat, and enjoy!
Austin/GoogleMaps

To out the historic menu, live event schedule, and current hours, visit the Scholz Garten website. Or, for some peeks into the past and some historic Scholz Garten photos, check out their Facebook page.

Have you ever been to this historic restaurant? If so, we want to hear all about your experience! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

There are lots of things to do in Austin, Texas! While you’re here, check out a few hidden beaches, take in some state history, or take a unique day trip. Then, check into this luxurious and historic downtown Tudor.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Featured Addresses
Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701, USA