The Bandera Chamber of Commerce had its monthly mixer at the new First National Ice Haus on Main Street.
The chamber group gathered and had a fun time enjoying the draught beer by the Bandera Brewery and the sangria made by Jerry Jeff Walker.
Co-owners Diana Walters and Frank Hicks hope to establish a relationship with Fredericksburg wineries to have a fully local set of beverage offerings soon.
Walters and Hicks both come from a business background in Houston. The Ice Haus is a work of love for the friends and a small business that features local Texas products. Walters keeps watch on the bar while Hicks plays music for the patrons.
The two small rooms on the first floor are cozy and the furniture is arranged to encourage couples or small groups who want to chat while enjoying a cold beverage. Non-alcoholic drinks are available as well. The friendly, upbeat atmosphere draws locals and tourists alike.
The thick limestone walls of the 1890 First National Bank of Bandera Building keep the establishment cool even in the hottest part of the day.
When the weather is more temperate, an outside patio is also set up for patrons to sit and enjoy the ambiance. The Ice Haus is dog-friendly.
Bartender Danielle Anderson remarked, “It’s a really good hometown place to be, and we have non-alcoholic options.”
As the chamber members wandered into the Ice Haus, the volume went up as laughter and ribbing among the members rose to a new height.
Bandera Brewery maven Liz Cox said, “We have seen an amazing amount of support from the community.”
The Bandera Brewery is supplying taps and freshly brewed beer to the Ice Haus as they assist the new business get a feel for Bandera.
“We have always loved the Hill Country. We sold our business and moved here to a ranch,” co-owner Walters noted.
She said that the First National Ice Haus is truly an place where friends can gather in a casual, friendly environment and be safe. They intentionally have no televisions or video games.
Walters praises Bandera for its hometown people who embody the spirit of the cowboy.
“We have encountered just lovely human beings who are true to their word,” she stated.
Notable locals Marshal Nancy De Foster and husband wandered through and stopped for a drink. Councilwoman Lynn Palmer worked her way back to the bar for a beverage.
Hardworking local volunteers Leanne and Jeanne Beauxbeannes stopped by to talk about their event on October 26 for cowgirls, tomboys, and girlfriends at Mansfield Park.
City Councilwoman Lynn Palmer summed it up when she said, “I really like it. I am really glad they decided to build their business here in this historic building. The Ice Haus is going to be an asset to Main Street.”
The First National Ice Haus is open on Thursday (4-9 p.m.), Friday (4-9 p.m.) and Saturday (3-10 p.m.).
They are in downtown Bandera next door to the OST Restaurant and across the street from the Bandera General Store.
