I turned 21 the January that I transferred to Texas State and moved to San Marcos. Since then, I have enjoyed the many bars, and a few of the coffee shops, that San Marcos has to offer.
Here is a list of my favorite places (in no particular order) to go to enjoy a good brew. Cheers!
1. Zelicks Icehouse (336 West Hopkins Street)
The "Best Little Icehouse in Texas" is by far my favorite bar in San Marcos. On top of the relaxing indoor-outdoor atmosphere, plenty of seating and the option to play corn hole or jenga, they are constantly rotating their beers on tap. It's always exciting to go to see what brews they are currently carrying, and the bartenders will always let you have a taste if you're unsure.
2. Jack's Roadhouse (1625 Hunter Road)
There is something I really appreciate about a "hole-in-the-wall" bar, and Jack's is one of the best ones in San Marcos. They only serve beer and keep customers entertained with the one pool table, one shuffle board table and karaoke. I love craft beer just as much as the next guy, but when I'm at Jack's I can really appreciate the simplicity of a Lone Star Light.
3. Tantra Coffee House (217 West Hopkins Street)
Tantra Coffee House is a great place to study, have a light dinner or enjoy live bluegrass music outside on Wednesday nights (starting at 9:30 p.m.). Tantra also has "mini-minute" specials, where you can get a mini-pitcher of a beer on tap for $4 from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m.
4. Wake the Dead (1432 Old Ranch Road 12)
Another coffee house, Wake the Dead is a place I love to go study, write or work on personal projects. I usually go in the evenings, so I do enjoy a beer instead of coffee to unwind from the day surrounded by art-covered walls or out on the patio.
5. Taproom Pub & Grub (129 East Hopkins Street)
Infamous for their selection of draft beers, Taproom is definitely a favorite among both San Marcos locals and Texas State students, including me. The selection is so wide that I feel obligated to try something new every time. Their chicken fajita pita isn't half bad either!
6. Sean Patrick's Irish Pub & Texas Grub (202 East San Antonio Street)
Also known as Sean P's, this restaurant and pub is a great place to go to watch pretty much any sporting event. The food is good with a nice selection of Irish favorites which pair well with their extensive beer menu.
So, whether you're a local, a student or just passing through, there's definitely a place for everyone, no matter what you're looking for.
Cheers!




















