A Taste of Europe Lands in the Hill Country: Favorite Neighbor Brings Tapas, Wine, and Charm to New Braunfels

San Antonio’s northern neighbor, New Braunfels, continues to charm locals and newcomers with its Hill Country warmth and thriving culinary scene. The latest addition turning heads? Favorite Neighbor, a cozy, European-inspired wine bar and small-plates restaurant at 494 N. Union Ave. This local spot has become a buzzworthy addition for those craving Spanish-style tapas, rich Italian flavors, and an elevated yet laid-back atmosphere. 

For homebuyers exploring the New Braunfels or North San Antonio real estate market, developments like this one are more than great date-night news — they’re a sign of vibrant neighborhood growth and rising lifestyle appeal. 

Favorite Neighbor: European Flavors Meet Texas Hospitality 

Opened in July 2025 by 25-year-old Abigail Porter, Favorite Neighbor blends the best of her travels through Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Indonesia into one approachable, Hill Country hangout. Porter’s mission? To make international cuisine accessible without the formality — or the flight. 

The menu leans toward scratch-made small plates, including: 

• Classic pan con tomate 

• Patatas bravas with a smoky kick 

• Garlic shrimp cooked in olive oil and herbs 

• The must-try French Dip, slow-roasted and soaked in bone broth au jus 

• Jamón Ibérico Bellota from Texas Iberico, one of the few local sources of authentic Iberian ham 

For dessert lovers, there’s house-made gelato and a rich tiramisu that’s already earned a local following. 

The ambiance mirrors the food — comfortable yet curated. With stained-glass lighting, ambient music, and a self-service ordering system, Favorite Neighbor keeps things casual but sophisticated, encouraging guests to slow down and stay awhile. 

Why It Matters for San Antonio Real Estate 

Restaurants like Favorite Neighbor don’t just elevate the local dining scene — they signal long-term neighborhood desirability and growth. 

New Braunfels, once considered a quiet Hill Country retreat, is now one of San Antonio’s fastest-growing commuter markets. As boutique businesses like this pop up, they attract a mix of young professionals, retirees, and families seeking walkable, community-oriented living. 

According to Tami Price, Realtor in San Antonio, “Local businesses with personality — especially ones that draw people in from surrounding areas — are a key indicator of rising property values and lifestyle appeal. Favorite Neighbor is exactly the kind of establishment that makes a community thrive.” 

The Broader Impact: Lifestyle Drives Demand 

Favorite Neighbor joins a growing list of small, experience-focused businesses reshaping New Braunfels and Comal County’s local economy. From artisan bakeries to boutique wine bars, these ventures contribute to the area’s live-work-play appeal — a major selling point for homebuyers relocating from Austin, Houston, and out of state. 

As more restaurants and cultural spots emerge, home values tend to follow. A vibrant dining and retail scene often correlates with: 

• Increased walkability 

• Improved community engagement 

• Higher home equity growth over time 

• Enhanced buyer demand in nearby neighborhoods 

For sellers, this means higher interest and faster turnarounds. For buyers, it signals long-term investment potential — particularly in areas like Gruene, Vintage Oaks, and the Downtown New Braunfels corridor. 

Expert Insight from the Local Market 

According to Tami Price, a Greater San Antonio Realtor®, the rise of boutique dining and cultural venues in New Braunfels showcases the region’s evolution. 

“We’re seeing a strong push toward lifestyle-driven development. When restaurants like Favorite Neighbor open, it’s more than just a new place to eat — it’s a signal that the community is thriving, and that attracts both residents and investors.” 

Practical Takeaways for Buyers and Sellers 

For Buyers: 

If you’re moving to the area, look for homes within walking distance of new cultural or culinary hotspots. Neighborhoods near Union Avenue and downtown New Braunfels are showing consistent appreciation. 

For Sellers: 

Highlight proximity to amenities like Favorite Neighbor in your listings. Lifestyle-driven marketing appeals strongly to out-of-town buyers. 

For Homeowners: 

Stay tuned to local development updates. Small businesses like this can positively affect your home’s long-term value — and your weekend plans. 

The Bottom Line: A Local Win for Community and Culture 

From its globally inspired menu to its relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, Favorite Neighbor captures the spirit of modern Hill Country living — connected, community-driven, and just the right amount of cosmopolitan.

For residents, it’s a reminder that living near San Antonio doesn’t mean sacrificing culture or cuisine. For real estate watchers, it’s another signal that the New Braunfels housing market continues to strengthen — one charcuterie board at a time.  

Source: MySanAntonio.com 

FAQ 

1. Where is Favorite Neighbor located? 
At 494 N. Union Ave., New Braunfels, TX, near downtown and just minutes from Gruene. 

2. What kind of food does Favorite Neighbor serve? 
Scratch-made European-inspired small plates, including Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese dishes. 

3. How does restaurant growth impact home values in New Braunfels? 
Vibrant local businesses increase lifestyle desirability, attracting new buyers and boosting property values. 

4. Is New Braunfels a good area to buy a home in 2025? 
Yes — with ongoing development, strong demand, and its Hill Country charm, New Braunfels remains a top destination for buyers relocating to Greater San Antonio. 

5. Who can help me find homes near these growing neighborhoods? 
Contact Tami Price, local Realtor and Broker Associate with Real Broker, LLC, for up-to-date listings and community insights. 

Want to learn more about how projects can affect your home’s value or buying decisions?
Text Tami at 210-620-6681 or follow @tamisellssanantonio for the latest real estate and community updates in Greater San Antonio.
Tami Price, Realtor® | Broker Associate | Real Broker, LLC