Brenham Foodie Getaway: A Taste-Filled Weekend

If your ideal weekend involves chasing bold flavors, sipping something delicious, and indulging in every course—Brenham & Washington County are calling! From legendary barbecue and small-batch chocolates to wood-fired pizza and ice cream, this two-day itinerary is packed with crave-worthy stops. Bring your appetite and your stretchy pants—here’s how to savor every bite of your foodie escape!

Day One: Tacos, Treats & Toasts

A young boy wearing a green shirt, navy shorts, flip-flops, and a paper Blue Bell Ice Cream hat sits on a decorative stone bench enjoying a cup of ice cream. Behind him is a vintage black Blue Bell Creameries delivery truck parked on a brick courtyard. The background features red brick buildings, a blooming crepe myrtle tree, and old-fashioned street lamps, creating a nostalgic and charming atmosphere.
Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

Start your weekend on a sweet note with a visit to Blue Bell Creameries, home of the iconic Texas ice cream. Grab a scoop (or two!) for just $1, and take in the sights from the observation deck to see where the magic happens.

Open Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM

Observation deck closes at 2 PM

Insider Tip: Some flavors are only available at the Ice Cream Parlor—you won’t find them in stores, so be sure to try something new while you’re there!

Once you’ve satisfied your sweet tooth, head downtown for dinner. You’ve got options:

A platter of birria tacos, with a hand holding a margarita.
LaJefa Homestyle Birria, Downtown Brenham

LaJefa Homestyle Birria - This food truck delivers big flavor with their signature birria tacos and birria ramen. Grab a seat at one of the picnic tables and enjoy the bustling energy of Downtown Brenham. Bonus: Salud is right next door, perfect if you're craving a margarita with your meal!

A cozy meal at Danny's, featuring a comforting bowl of tomato basil soup drizzled with olive oil and herbs, served alongside a plate of golden grilled cheese sandwiches. In the background, a person prepares to enjoy a cheeseburger and fries with a side of ketchup. The table also includes a pink cocktail with fresh herbs and a bottle of beer, capturing a relaxed, casual dining experience with elevated comfort food.
Danny's, Downtown Brenham

Danny’s - Prefer something a little unexpected? Danny’s offers an upscale, global menu with dishes like tuna tartare, miso shrimp alfredo, and a burger that locals swear by.

After dinner, keep the evening going with a cocktail or local brew.

Two colorful cocktails sit on a rustic wooden table at Salud, a trendy bar known for its vibrant atmosphere. One drink is deep red with a chili salt rim and dried citrus garnish, while the other is a light yellow cocktail garnished with a lime wheel and chili salt rim. A potted cactus adds a southwestern touch, and the neon red “SALUD” sign glows in the blurred background, enhancing the fun and festive vibe.
SALUD, Downtown Brenham

SALUD - This stylish downtown bar offers expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere. Check their calendar for themed nights and live music!

HSF Biergarten - A laid-back biergarten featuring local beers, wine, and frequent live music. It's a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy the small-town vibe.

Insider Tip: Both spots are within walking distance, so you can experience a little of each!

DAY 2 – Taste of Brenham Tour (Saturday)

Kick off your Saturday morning with breakfast at one of Brenham’s most beloved bakeries:

A brightly lit bakery display case filled with an assortment of colorful desserts, including rows of cupcakes with various frosting designs, pastel macarons in multiple flavors, raspberry macaron cakes, chocolate tarts, and other delicate pastries. Labels such as "Mango Passion Fruit" and "Raspberry Macaron" identify some of the treats. The clean glass case and elegant presentation create a tempting and upscale atmosphere.
Thomas Craft Confections, Brenham

Thomas Craft Confections - Saturday mornings bring a special rotating menu of buttery croissants, savory quiches, and sweet pastries that fly off the shelves. Come early and leave with breakfast—and maybe a few macarons or cookies for the road!

Insider Tip: Get there early. The locals look forward to Saturday morning for this reason, and they sell out of these items pretty quickly!

The Tilted Windmill - If you’d rather sit and linger, grab a table at The Tilted Windmill for a cozy brunch and an extensive tea and coffee menu.

For lunch, it's time to experience Texas barbecue at its finest. These two Brenham originals have earned spots on Texas Monthly’s Top 50 BBQ Joints list—so trust us, you’re in for something special!

A hearty tray of Texas-style barbecue featuring an assortment of smoked meats including brisket, sausage, ribs, and beef ribs, garnished with sliced pickles, jalapeños, and pickled onions. Surrounding the tray on a red table are classic Southern sides such as baked beans, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and greens. Barbecue sauce and seasoning bottles are also visible, enhancing the authentic, mouthwatering spread.
LJ's BBQ, Brenham

LJ’s BBQ - This local favorite smokes brisket, ribs, turkey, and pulled pork low and slow, and their house-made sides (hello, mac and cheese!) are just as impressive. The laid-back setting and friendly service make it a must-stop for BBQ lovers.

Open Wednesday–Saturday starting at 11 AM (or until sold out)

A picnic table at Truth BBQ showcases a mouthwatering Texas barbecue feast with trays of smoked meats, pickled vegetables, and an assortment of creamy side dishes like potato salad and coleslaw. Two cans of Lone Star beer and a bottle of house barbecue sauce are also on the table. In the background, diners sit under colorful red and teal umbrellas, and a rustic "Truth Barbeque" sign hangs above, set against a sunny sky with fluffy clouds. The outdoor setting features wooden benches, gravel ground, and nearby parked trucks, evoking a relaxed, classic Texas barbecue experience.
Truth BBQ, Brenham

Truth BBQ  - Truth BBQ brings big flavor with its perfectly rendered brisket, spicy sausage, and homemade cakes. With rustic charm and national acclaim, it’s worth the wait in line.

Open Thursday–Sunday, 11 AM–3 PM (or until sold out)

Insider Tip: They both sell out daily—arrive early to make sure you don’t miss out!

Want to explore more? Follow the Brenham BBQ Trail and discover all the smoky goodness Washington County has to offer.

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try Las Americas Latin Cuisine for fresh, flavorful Latin fare in a modern setting.

After lunch, spend your afternoon strolling downtown for foodie-friendly shopping.

a box of 4 polished and shiny decorated chocolates that on top of a glass counter with more chocolates below. Jet Set Chocolates in Brenham, Texas
Jet Set Chocolates, Downtown Brenham

Jet Set Chocolates - Treat yourself to hand-crafted chocolate bars and gourmet confections made right in Brenham. Their creative flavors and gorgeous packaging make great gifts—or a personal reward!

The Charcuterie Shop - This locally loved shop is more than meats and cheeses. You’ll find grab-and-go sandwiches, heat-and-eat meals, dips, spreads, and snacks perfect for a picnic or stocking your weekend rental fridge.

A colorful and carefully curated display at Hermann Emporium, showcasing gourmet foods, artisanal kitchenware, and home decor. Shelves are filled with olive oils, spice blends, herbal teas, and jars of truffle goods. Decorative ceramic jars, wooden bowls, and hand-painted pottery are artfully arranged alongside woven baskets and linen textiles. A vibrant blue vase filled with faux lemons adds a cheerful touch, enhancing the warm and inviting ambiance of this specialty shop.
Hermann Emporium, Downtown Brenham

Hermann Emporium - A cozy shop offering artisan foods, gourmet goods, kitchen gifts, and vintage treasures curated for foodies and collectors alike.

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up:

Grab a slice of pie and a coffee at Must Be Heaven—their Sawdust and Dutch Apple pies are local favorites!

Insider Tip: Take your dessert to the patio and soak up the small-town charm of Downtown Brenham.

For dinner, it’s all about Italian comfort food at Brossa’s.

A cozy table setting at Brossa's Cibo e Vino, featuring a plated serving of lasagna topped with fresh herbs and cheese, accompanied by dishes of pasta, soup, and salad. A bottle of red wine labeled "RS" and a glass of iced tea with lemon slices sit nearby. A small floral arrangement in a glass vase and a white tablecloth add a refined touch, capturing the warm, elegant ambiance of this Italian dining experience.
Brossa's Cibo e Vino, Brenham

Brossa’s Cibo e Vino - Tucked into a warm and inviting space, Brossa’s serves homemade pasta, rich sauces, and craft cocktails that hit the spot.

End your day with a relaxing drink at Floyd’s Lounge or Main Street Uncorked. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a glass of wine, these spots offer a mellow way to wind down.

DAY 3 – Sunday Send-Off

Before you hit the road, enjoy one last meal:

Outdoor dining scene at Ninety Six West, a restaurant located in a charming brick building in downtown Brenham, Texas. Guests are seated under large black umbrellas enjoying food and drinks on a sunny day. The patio is framed by modern planters filled with greenery and flowers. The lively atmosphere reflects a popular local spot with a welcoming, vibrant vibe.
Ninety-Six West, Downtown Brenham

Ninety-Six West - Their Sunday brunch menu includes everything from small plates to hearty entrees—plus gluten-free options!

Mescalito Coffee - Need a caffeine fix for the drive home? Grab a seasonal latte and a fresh-baked pastry to go!

Ready to eat your way through Brenham?

With every bite, sip, and scoop, you’ll discover why food lovers keep coming back to Washington County!