Waco, Texas, nestled along the Brazos River and known for its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as a significant hub in Central Texas. As a city that blends tradition with a growing modern appeal, Waco offers a unique snapshot of the region's lifestyle, including its dynamic alcohol sales market. This article presents a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of how alcohol sales shape the local economy and culture.
In our exploration, readers will uncover a detailed table and analysis of the top alcohol-selling establishments in Waco, revealing the hotspots where residents and visitors alike choose to unwind. Additionally, we break down alcohol sales by zip code, highlighting the areas with the highest concentration of sales and offering insights into the city's diverse neighborhoods. Finally, a monthly trends analysis provides a fascinating look at how alcohol sales have evolved over the past year, showcasing patterns and shifts in consumer behavior.
With data current as of April 2025, this report offers an up-to-date perspective on Waco's alcohol sales landscape, perfect for anyone interested in understanding the economic and cultural pulse of this vibrant Texas city.
Top 25 Waco Businesses By May 2025 Alcohol Sales
# | Establishment | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
Backyard Bar Stage and Grill
|
$230,234 |
$125,132
|
$1,056
|
$104,046
|
2. |
George's
|
$186,999 |
$101,726
|
$2,043
|
$83,230
|
3. |
Scruffy Murphy's
|
$173,409 |
$143,295
|
$0
|
$28,964
|
4. |
Blacks Beverage Co
|
$143,366 |
$81,450
|
$36,674
|
$25,242
|
5. |
Hotel Herringbone, LLC
|
$142,017 |
$102,767
|
$19,238
|
$20,012
|
6. |
Hotel 1928
|
$130,963 |
$90,952
|
$34,542
|
$5,469
|
7. |
George's Restaurant & Bar
|
$128,398 |
$62,497
|
$2,099
|
$63,802
|
8. |
La Fiesta Restaurant
|
$125,657 |
$110,762
|
$625
|
$14,270
|
9. |
Freight Bar Waco
|
$111,086 |
$88,406
|
$1,493
|
$21,187
|
10. |
Jorge's Cantina
|
$110,774 |
$93,918
|
$1,727
|
$15,129
|
11. |
Bubba's 33
|
$104,390 |
$48,502
|
$1,217
|
$54,671
|
12. |
Topgolf Waco
|
$101,797 |
$47,214
|
$2,218
|
$52,365
|
13. |
Cricket Grill and Draft House
|
$99,043 |
$51,034
|
$1,727
|
$46,282
|
14. |
Ninfa's Waco
|
$90,256 |
$73,624
|
$1,049
|
$15,583
|
15. |
Oakley's
|
$89,665 |
$54,250
|
$216
|
$35,199
|
16. |
The Melody Ranch
|
$87,633 |
$0
|
$0
|
$0
|
17. |
Truelove
|
$86,765 |
$67,453
|
$311
|
$19,001
|
18. |
Casa Do Brasil Waco
|
$85,857 |
$60,248
|
$21,625
|
$3,984
|
19. |
Ridgewood Country Club
|
$85,577 |
$54,480
|
$15,333
|
$15,764
|
20. |
Diamond Back's Restaurant / Gratziano's
|
$84,111 |
$41,417
|
$3,980
|
$38,714
|
21. |
Chuy's
|
$73,451 |
$62,862
|
$442
|
$10,147
|
22. |
Texas Roadhouse
|
$73,443 |
$37,690
|
$2,458
|
$33,295
|
23. |
Bj's Restaurant and Brewhouse
|
$68,290 |
$31,959
|
$8,660
|
$27,671
|
24. |
Austin's
|
$67,687 |
$0
|
$0
|
$0
|
25. |
The Salty Dog Bar & Grill
|
$66,072 |
$34,830
|
$3,608
|
$27,634
|
Top Performers in Waco's Alcohol Sales
Leading the pack for May 2025 is Backyard Bar Stage and Grill with impressive total receipts of $230,234. They dominated with liquor sales at $125,132, while their beer sales weren't far behind at $104,046. Interestingly, wine sales were minimal at just $1,056, showing the venue's focus on liquor and beer.
Coming in second, George's at 1925 Speight Ave recorded $186,999 in total receipts. Liquor sales accounted for the bulk, contributing $101,726, while beer sales added another $83,230. Their wine sales, though higher than Backyard's, remained modest at $2,043.
Noteworthy Trends and Observations
Scruffy Murphy's stands out with its focus on liquor, reporting $143,295 in sales, which is over 82% of their total receipts. It's notable that they did not record any wine sales, suggesting a strong emphasis on spirits and beer.
At Blacks Beverage Co, a diverse sales distribution is evident, with wine sales at a significant $36,674, nearly half of their liquor sales. This indicates a balanced approach catering to varied customer preferences.
Interesting Insights and Comparisons
Hotel Herringbone and Hotel 1928 both show strong liquor sales, but Hotel Herringbone leads slightly in total receipts. The difference in wine sales, $19,238 versus $34,542, suggests a distinct preference for wine at Hotel 1928.
While La Fiesta Restaurant and Freight Bar Waco both exceed $110,000 in sales, La Fiesta's reliance on liquor is clear, with $110,762 from spirits alone. Conversely, Freight Bar Waco maintains a more balanced sales approach between liquor and beer.
Low Performers and Unique Cases
It’s intriguing that The Melody Ranch and Austin's reported no sales across liquor, wine, or beer categories. This anomaly could hint at operational changes, closures, or reporting errors.
Finally, The Salty Dog Bar & Grill rounds out the top 25 with $66,072 in total receipts, showing a balanced distribution across all categories, though liquor sales lead slightly. This suggests a well-rounded offering appealing to a broad customer base.
Waco Zip Codes By May 2025 Alcohol Sales
# | Zip Code | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
76701
|
40 | $1,560,513 |
$1,006,414
|
$141,567
|
$320,201
|
2. |
76706
|
24 | $1,310,918 |
$757,374
|
$73,466
|
$391,295
|
3. |
76710
|
36 | $1,188,637 |
$786,305
|
$66,140
|
$336,192
|
4. |
76712
|
23 | $884,686 |
$495,134
|
$122,241
|
$267,311
|
5. |
76711
|
9 | $263,349 |
$119,825
|
$10,998
|
$131,034
|
6. |
76708
|
12 | $262,408 |
$152,070
|
$3,521
|
$106,817
|
7. |
76704
|
6 | $180,199 |
$92,197
|
$29,165
|
$58,837
|
8. |
76705
|
10 | $154,201 |
$86,647
|
$1,944
|
$65,610
|
9. |
76707
|
2 | $12,034 |
$7,220
|
$0
|
$4,814
|
Top Sellers by Zip Code
If you're looking at where the alcohol action is in Waco, zip code 76701 takes the cake with a whopping $1,560,513 in sales. This area houses 40 establishments, making it a bustling hub for liquor lovers, with 64% of sales coming from liquor alone. Not far behind is 76706, with $1,310,918 in sales and a slightly more beer-friendly vibe—30% of its sales are from beer.
Alcohol Preferences Across Waco
It's clear that Wacoans have a penchant for liquor, with most zip codes showing strong sales in this category. However, zip code 76711 is notable for its beer preference, with 50% of its sales coming from this category. Meanwhile, zip code 76712 stands out for its relatively high wine sales at 14%, suggesting a more diverse taste in this area.
Opportunities for New Establishments
Looking for expansion opportunities? Zip code 76711, with only 9 establishments but a significant beer market, could be ripe for new venues. Similarly, zip code 76707, despite having the lowest sales at $12,034, has only 2 establishments. This suggests a potential gap in the market that savvy investors might want to explore further.
Key Insights and Patterns
Interestingly, while liquor dominates most areas, the variance in beer and wine sales across different zip codes indicates diverse consumer preferences. Establishments in zip codes like 76708 and 76704, with higher beer sales percentages, might consider expanding their beer selections. Overall, the data suggests robust opportunities for tailored offerings based on local tastes.
Waco Alcohol Sales Trends: Last 12 Months
Month | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer | Monthly Change |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
May 2025 | 148 | $5,523,728 |
$3,337,640
|
$418,847
|
$1,584,635
|
8.1%
↑
|
Apr 2025 | 158 | $5,108,246 |
$2,911,476
|
$403,488
|
$1,439,716
|
0.3%
↑
|
Mar 2025 | 145 | $5,091,481 |
$3,165,988
|
$397,185
|
$1,526,768
|
18.3%
↑
|
Feb 2025 | 145 | $4,305,338 |
$2,649,949
|
$397,208
|
$1,257,276
|
8.6%
↑
|
Jan 2025 | 155 | $3,964,603 |
$2,330,451
|
$331,844
|
$1,282,492
|
17.4%
↓
|
Dec 2024 | 155 | $4,801,100 |
$2,916,757
|
$430,290
|
$1,374,179
|
0.2%
↓
|
Nov 2024 | 156 | $4,809,348 |
$2,899,793
|
$413,458
|
$1,431,316
|
5%
↓
|
Oct 2024 | 155 | $5,061,097 |
$3,018,303
|
$426,184
|
$1,555,862
|
10.1%
↑
|
Sep 2024 | 154 | $4,595,986 |
$2,753,087
|
$361,788
|
$1,440,071
|
4.4%
↓
|
Aug 2024 | 152 | $4,805,752 |
$2,946,017
|
$377,565
|
$1,481,251
|
7.4%
↑
|
Jul 2024 | 152 | $4,473,825 |
$2,789,597
|
$308,522
|
$1,375,676
|
5.3%
↓
|
Jun 2024 | 152 | $4,723,974 |
$2,866,498
|
$343,306
|
$1,514,110
|
0%
↑
|
Overview of Alcohol Sales in Waco
Over the past 12 months, Waco's alcohol sales have shown interesting dynamics, with a noticeable climb in overall receipts. The most recent data from May 2025 highlights a peak in sales, reaching a substantial $5,523,728. Despite a slight decrease in the number of establishments, sales figures were up by 8.13% compared to April, marking a vibrant demand in the market.
Trends in Liquor, Wine, and Beer Sales
Liquor consistently dominated the sales mix, accounting for over half of total receipts each month. In May 2025, liquor sales hit $3,337,640, reflecting a strong preference for spirits among consumers. Meanwhile, wine sales saw modest fluctuations, with a slight increase in May, reaching $418,847. Beer sales, while more stable, also experienced a boost, climbing to $1,584,635 in the same month.
Seasonal Patterns and Market Shifts
Seasonal patterns were evident, particularly during the year-end holidays in December 2024, when sales surged to $4,801,100 before dropping in January 2025. This suggests that festive seasons significantly influence buying behavior. Interestingly, the market saw another peak in May 2025, possibly driven by events or favorable weather conditions enhancing social activities.
Establishment Changes and Market Implications
Despite fluctuations in the number of establishments, which dropped by 6.33% in May 2025, total receipts increased. This indicates that fewer establishments are capturing a larger share of the market, suggesting a potential consolidation or success of larger venues. This trend might influence new entrants or existing businesses considering expansion in the region.
Year-over-Year Comparisons
When comparing year-over-year data, the upward trajectory in sales is clear, with May 2025's figures surpassing any month from the previous year. This growth highlights Waco's thriving alcohol market, suggesting an ongoing opportunity for businesses willing to meet consumer demand with innovative offerings or enhanced customer experiences.
Economic Overview
Waco, Texas, stands as a dynamic economic hub in the heart of Central Texas, benefiting from its strategic location along the I-35 corridor between Dallas and Austin. The city has a diverse economic base with key industries including health care, manufacturing, and education. Baylor University plays a significant role in the local economy, not only as a major employer but also as a catalyst for innovation and research. Additionally, the presence of companies like L3Harris Technologies and Mars Wrigley Confectionery highlights Waco's appeal to large corporations seeking a business-friendly environment.
In recent years, Waco has seen a surge in economic development projects, with initiatives aimed at revitalizing downtown and enhancing infrastructure. The city's business climate is marked by low taxes and a supportive local government, making it an attractive destination for startups and entrepreneurs. Waco's commitment to fostering economic growth is evident in the increasing number of tech-related firms setting up operations in the area, further diversifying the economic landscape.
Cultural Scene
Waco boasts a vibrant cultural scene, offering a rich tapestry of events and attractions that draw visitors from across the state. The city is home to the Waco Cultural Arts Festival, an annual celebration that showcases local artists, musicians, and performers. The festival is a testament to Waco's growing arts community and its commitment to cultural enrichment.
The city's cultural attractions include the renowned Dr Pepper Museum and the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, both of which highlight unique aspects of Texas history. For those interested in the arts, the Waco Symphony Orchestra and the Art Center Waco provide year-round programming that appeals to diverse audiences. These cultural offerings, combined with a thriving community of local artists and creators, contribute to Waco's reputation as a cultural destination.
Lifestyle
Waco offers a diverse array of neighborhoods and entertainment districts, each with its own distinct character. Areas like Cameron Park and Woodway provide residents with scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities, while the burgeoning downtown district has become a hotspot for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The Magnolia Market at the Silos, created by Chip and Joanna Gaines, has become a major attraction, blending retail with a unique lifestyle experience.
Local character is defined by a blend of Southern hospitality and modern urban living. The city’s residents enjoy a variety of local eateries, coffee shops, and farmers' markets that emphasize farm-to-table dining and support local agriculture. Waco's community spirit is evident in its lively public events, such as the popular Waco Downtown Farmers Market, which fosters a sense of connection and engagement among residents and visitors alike.
Future Outlook
Waco's future is marked by ambitious development plans and a strong growth trajectory. The city's leadership is focused on sustainable development, with projects aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure and expanding public services to accommodate a growing population. Waco's economic development strategy includes attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
With an eye toward the future, Waco is investing in education and workforce development to ensure a skilled labor force ready to meet the demands of emerging industries. The city's strategic location, combined with its proactive approach to development, positions Waco as a city with promising prospects for continued growth and prosperity. As it evolves, Waco remains committed to preserving its unique character while embracing opportunities for economic and cultural advancement.