I’m sitting in the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar in the
Gruene Historic District enjoying skewered bacon-wrapped shrimp layered on a
green salad. Larry and I have been visiting sites around New Braunfels (Gruene
is officially part of New Braunfels) that families might enjoy on vacation this
summer, and this was the perfect place to reflect on our findings over lunch.
Remnant of burned wall on Gristmill Restaurant |
In 1977 Pat Molak, who had also purchased and restored the aging Gruene Hall, began cooking and serving hamburgers and steaks from one corner of the former cotton gin. It was so successful that he added sprawling lower decks facing the Guadalupe River. Eventually the Turkey and Boar rooms, aptly named for the stuffed animals used as décor, were added and outfitted with stone fireplaces. The River Grove, an open air, brick patio overlooking the river, was added in 1998.
The Boar Room is great for special events. |
Be sure to get an order of the thick, chunky onion rings
(small size is plenty!) If you save room for dessert, the Jack Daniel’s Pecan
Pie is a customer favorite. Hang around after dining to shop antique or
specialty stores that line the streets of this historic German settlement, or
listen to live music in Gruene Hall next door. Families and couples enjoy
strolling around the town that time forgot. For me, the Gristmill has certainly
contributed to Gruene’s reputation as a major tourist attraction in Texas.
Photos by Larry and Beverly Burmeier
Read more travel stories at Striped Pot and Austin Adventure Travel
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