We stayed the week at the New Braunfels resort, which is basically in Gruene, for those of you familiar with the area.
During your visit, you have to eat at the Gristmill
http://www.gristmillrestaurant.com/. It's about 2 minutes from the resort and has great Texas comfort food with several decks overlooking the Guadalupe River. Although there are a great deal of fans, there is no A/C in this landmark location, so plan accordingly! We did lunch in June and it was surprisingly comfortable for our entire party, from children as young as 2 to the grandparents.
Next door, at Gruene Hall
http://www.gruenehall.com/ - a traditional Texas music hall and great place to catch a show - on the 2nd Sunday of the month, they have a Gospel Brunch. It is SUCH a great time for the entire family!
Just down the road (about 4 minutes from the resort), still in Gruene, is Adobe Verde
http://www.adobeverde.com/. A native Texan, I'm picky about my Tex Mex, and this establishment lives up to the expectation.
One of the BEST BBQ joints in the entire state is just down the road (about 5 minutes from the resort) in New Braunfels. Coopers BBQ
http://www.coopersbbqnewbraunfels.com/ has amazing brisket, sausage, and more...be sure to save room for their cobblers!
Clear Springs Cafe
http://www.clearspringscafe.com/ is about 10 - 15 minutes from the resort, in New Braunfels. This is a great spot for delicious food from fried pickles, catfish, and even sandwiches. Even though they were busy, their service was excellent, getting our toddler's food out extremely fast.
Gruene River Grill,
http://www.gruenerivergrill.com/index.html, next to Gruene Hall, is a little more upscale and has good food, cute atmosphere and views of the Guadalupe River.
Looking for a sweet start to your day? Check out the oldest operating bakery in Texas, Naegelins
http://www.naegelins.com/. Their treats, including savory kolaches, were AMAZING! There are only about 2 small tables for seating and they are outside, so you may consider going to pick it up and bring it back to the resort. This historic spot is less than 15 minutes from the resort.
Another spot that we didn't have time for, but was recommended by friends who are local:
McAdoos Seafood Company
http://www.mcadoos.com/Enjoy!!