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 June 2026 Alcohol Sales
| # | Establishment | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |
George's
|
$166,830 |
$86,309
|
$1,915
|
$78,606
|
| 2. |
Tia Juanita's Fish Camp Waco
|
$133,499 |
$70,516
|
$1,468
|
$61,515
|
| 3. |
Jorge's Cantina
|
$132,639 |
$118,717
|
$1,613
|
$12,309
|
| 4. |
Blacks Beverage Co
|
$118,491 |
$58,899
|
$38,578
|
$21,014
|
| 5. |
George's Restaurant & Bar
|
$112,476 |
$55,435
|
$2,176
|
$54,865
|
| 6. |
Hotel Herringbone, LLC
|
$105,492 |
$76,670
|
$13,965
|
$14,857
|
| 7. |
Bubba's 33
|
$105,067 |
$49,715
|
$898
|
$54,454
|
| 8. |
La Fiesta Restaurant
|
$100,007 |
$88,085
|
$430
|
$11,492
|
| 9. |
Cricket Grill and Draft House
|
$85,706 |
$40,354
|
$44,411
|
$941
|
| 10. |
Oakley's
|
$82,971 |
$47,731
|
$162
|
$35,078
|
| 11. |
Hotel 1928
|
$82,454 |
$48,659
|
$26,803
|
$6,992
|
| 12. |
Topgolf Waco
|
$78,671 |
$40,954
|
$1,460
|
$36,257
|
| 13. |
Chuy's #6016
|
$78,627 |
$67,010
|
$717
|
$10,900
|
| 14. |
Texas Roadhouse
|
$78,403 |
$40,291
|
$1,977
|
$36,135
|
| 15. |
Truelove
|
$75,654 |
$59,417
|
$336
|
$15,901
|
| 16. |
Barnett's Pub
|
$72,408 |
$37,522
|
$1,890
|
$32,996
|
| 17. |
The Salty Dog Bar & Grill
|
$70,962 |
$34,848
|
$3,625
|
$32,489
|
| 18. |
Ninfa's Waco
|
$69,946 |
$57,768
|
$965
|
$11,213
|
| 19. |
Ac Hotel by Marrott
|
$66,661 |
$40,753
|
$9,294
|
$16,614
|
| 20. |
Ridgewood Country Club
|
$66,570 |
$46,545
|
$11,864
|
$8,161
|
| 21. |
Clicks Billiards
|
$64,674 |
$38,588
|
$194
|
$25,892
|
| 22. |
Dodge City Saloon
|
$58,532 |
$39,765
|
$816
|
$17,951
|
| 23. |
Shorty's Pizza Shack
|
$57,753 |
$19,668
|
$2,046
|
$36,039
|
| 24. |
Diamond Back's Restaurant / Gratziano's
|
$57,326 |
$36,266
|
$16,424
|
$4,636
|
| 25. |
Bj's Restaurant and Brewhouse
|
$54,687 |
$25,999
|
$7,169
|
$21,519
|
Top Performers in Waco's Alcohol Scene
Leading the pack in June 2026, George's on Speight Ave tops the list with impressive total receipts of $166,830. They maintain a balanced mix, with liquor sales hitting $86,309 and beer close behind at $78,606. This establishment seems to have a winning formula that keeps customers coming back for both spirits and beers.
Close on George's heels is Tia Juanita's Fish Camp, which brought in $133,499. The focus here is slightly more on liquor, accounting for over half of their sales at $70,516, while beer still plays a significant role at $61,515. It's clear that this venue is a hot spot for those who enjoy a spirited drink alongside their seafood.
Interesting Trends and Notable Insights
Jorge's Cantina stands out with its strong emphasis on liquor, contributing a whopping $118,717 out of their $132,639 total sales. This suggests a clientele that prefers cocktails or hard spirits over other alcoholic options.
Meanwhile, Blacks Beverage Co offers a more diverse selection, featuring the highest wine sales among the top venues with $38,578, making it a go-to for wine enthusiasts. In contrast, La Fiesta Restaurant showcases an overwhelming preference for liquor, with $88,085 out of $100,007 in total receipts, indicating a strong margarita or cocktail culture.
Noteworthy Mentions
Hotel Herringbone and Bubba's 33 are neck and neck, each breaking the $100,000 mark, with liquor sales leading the charge. Meanwhile, Cricket Grill and Draft House bucks the trend with wine dominating their alcohol sales, showing that there's a niche market for wine in a typically beer and liquor-heavy environment.
Lastly, Topgolf Waco and Texas Roadhouse are almost tied in total sales, both offering a balanced mix of liquor and beer. Their consistency and appeal to a broad audience make them staple locations for both casual and group outings.
Waco Zip Codes By June 2026 Alcohol Sales
| # | Zip Code | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |
76701
|
34 | $1,218,392 |
$750,287
|
$169,383
|
$253,947
|
| 2. |
76710
|
35 | $1,149,239 |
$769,512
|
$58,089
|
$315,948
|
| 3. |
76706
|
31 | $864,472 |
$480,009
|
$56,056
|
$326,968
|
| 4. |
76712
|
21 | $678,433 |
$386,750
|
$86,519
|
$205,164
|
| 5. |
76711
|
10 | $258,579 |
$126,222
|
$9,254
|
$123,103
|
| 6. |
76708
|
12 | $222,547 |
$134,890
|
$2,076
|
$85,581
|
| 7. |
76705
|
9 | $181,633 |
$102,736
|
$2,526
|
$76,371
|
| 8. |
76704
|
6 | $112,929 |
$59,135
|
$19,669
|
$34,125
|
| 9. |
76707
|
2 | $7,467 |
$2,740
|
$0
|
$4,727
|
Top Performing Zip Codes
When it comes to alcohol sales in Waco for June 2026, two zip codes lead the pack: 76701 and 76710. With sales exceeding $1.2 million and $1.1 million respectively, these areas account for a significant portion of the total $4.7 million in sales. Both zip codes have a high density of establishments, with 34 in 76701 and 35 in 76710, making them prime zones for alcohol sales activity.
Sales Mix Variations
It's interesting to see the variation in the types of alcohol sold across different zip codes. In 76701, liquor dominates the sales mix at 62%, while 76710 sees an even higher percentage at 67%. However, beer holds a steady presence, especially in 76706, where it accounts for 38% of sales, contrasting with just 5% wine sales in 76710.
Opportunities for New Establishments
For entrepreneurs looking to tap into new opportunities, zip codes like 76712 and 76711 present potential. With 21 and 10 establishments respectively, there's room to grow, especially given their substantial sales figures. The lower density compared to the top zip codes suggests these areas might benefit from additional venues to meet local demand.
Additional Insights
While smaller in total sales, zip code 76707 presents a unique case with its 63% beer sales, despite having only two establishments. This suggests a niche market for beer-focused businesses. On the other hand, 76704 shows a higher percentage of wine sales at 17%, hinting at a different consumer preference that could be explored further.
Waco Alcohol Sales Trends: Last 12 Months
| Month | Establishments | Total | Liquor | Wine | Beer | Monthly Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 2026 | 144 | $4,416,642 |
$2,648,834
|
$385,338
|
$1,330,566
|
22.6%
↓
|
| May 2026 | 154 | $5,707,364 |
$3,276,611
|
$464,502
|
$1,514,512
|
10.2%
↑
|
| Apr 2026 | 151 | $5,181,084 |
$2,976,982
|
$434,326
|
$1,491,039
|
1.9%
↑
|
| Mar 2026 | 154 | $5,086,457 |
$2,936,129
|
$386,622
|
$1,487,884
|
11.5%
↑
|
| Feb 2026 | 152 | $4,560,474 |
$2,726,227
|
$421,513
|
$1,318,829
|
14.3%
↑
|
| Jan 2026 | 156 | $3,989,639 |
$2,333,505
|
$323,519
|
$1,241,366
|
17.5%
↓
|
| Dec 2025 | 155 | $4,837,026 |
$2,934,906
|
$439,645
|
$1,364,121
|
4.4%
↑
|
| Nov 2025 | 156 | $4,635,353 |
$2,651,422
|
$424,181
|
$1,342,890
|
7%
↓
|
| Oct 2025 | 155 | $4,982,460 |
$2,878,599
|
$436,745
|
$1,548,091
|
7%
↑
|
| Sep 2025 | 158 | $4,658,669 |
$2,771,041
|
$364,898
|
$1,464,867
|
10.7%
↓
|
| Aug 2025 | 154 | $5,216,534 |
$3,049,069
|
$394,387
|
$1,568,576
|
16.9%
↑
|
| Jul 2025 | 154 | $4,462,024 |
$2,657,717
|
$348,137
|
$1,383,694
|
0%
↑
|
Overview of Alcohol Sales Trends in Waco
Over the past 12 months, Waco's alcohol sales have seen some interesting shifts that business owners and stakeholders might find insightful. The total receipts in June 2026 amounted to $4,416,642, marking a substantial decrease of 22.62% from May 2026, which was the peak month with sales hitting $5,707,364. This suggests a significant seasonal spike in May, possibly due to events or holidays that boost alcohol consumption.
Fluctuations in Establishments and Receipts
The number of establishments selling alcohol in Waco also fluctuated, with a slight decrease from 154 in May to 144 in June 2026. This reduction might be linked to seasonal closures or consolidations within the industry. Notably, while the establishment count fluctuated modestly throughout the year, the total receipts saw larger percentage changes, indicating that sales volume per establishment also varied significantly.
Liquor vs. Wine vs. Beer Sales
Examining the sales mix, liquor consistently dominated the market, peaking in May 2026 with receipts of $3,276,611. Beer sales followed, with a notable high in August 2025 at $1,568,576, suggesting a popular summer season for beer consumption. Wine, while the smallest segment, saw its highest sales in May 2026 at $464,502. These trends underline the steady preference for liquor, seasonal peaks for beer, and a relatively stable market for wine.
Implications for the Market
The year-over-year trends indicate a robust market with periodic spikes that could be leveraged for strategic planning, such as targeted marketing campaigns during peak months. The sales mix suggests opportunities for liquor-focused promotions, especially in months leading up to May, and potentially for beer in late summer. Overall, understanding these patterns can help businesses optimize inventory, staffing, and promotional strategies to align with consumer behavior.
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.