The first legal drink in Texas after prohibition tucked away in the small town of Hunter, Texas, halfway between San Marcos and New Braunfels, stands a legendary watering hole with a history as rich as its whiskey pours—Riley’s Tavern. This unassuming roadhouse doesn’t just serve cold beer and live music; it holds the distinguished title of the first bar in Texas to receive a legal liquor license after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933.
A Story Born from a Changing America
When Prohibition ended, a young entrepreneur named James Curtis Riley saw an opportunity. At just 17 years old, he applied for and received Liquor License No. 1 in Texas. To get around the legal drinking age (then 21), Riley reportedly had a local judge fudge his age. And just like that, Riley’s Tavern opened its doors—and a chapter in Texas history.
The original building, a 19th-century railroad stop, still stands today and maintains much of its historic charm. You won’t find flashing lights or big screens here. Instead, think creaky floorboards, jukebox tunes, and the kind of atmosphere that invites conversation over cocktails.
More Than Just a Bar
Over the decades, Riley’s Tavern has become a cultural landmark in Central Texas. It’s a favorite for locals, a discovery for road-trippers, and a must-stop for anyone tracing the roots of Texas music and history.
With a cozy indoor bar and an expansive outdoor patio under oak trees, Riley’s hosts regular live music performances—ranging from blues to country to rockabilly. It’s not uncommon to catch rising stars playing intimate sets, the kind you’ll brag about years later.
A Living Piece of Texas History
Riley’s Tavern isn’t about flash—it’s about soul. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, strangers become friends, and the beer is always cold. Whether you're drawn by its status in the history books or you simply stumble upon it on a Hill Country drive, Riley’s delivers something rare: authenticity.
If you’re ever near Central Texas, stop in. Grab a Lone Star, listen to some tunes, and take a moment to appreciate a place that’s stood the test of time—not just as a bar, but as a piece of living Texas legend.