It’s Texas Wine Month, y’all! Mike and I spent the week in Fredericksburg exploring some of the newer wineries and dining spots…at least places we hadn’t tried before. There are a lot of great options. Let’s start with dining.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Otto’s, the quaint, tiny German bistro tucked in the block behind Main Street. Now, the same owners have a new sp0t that’s all the buzz on 290. It’s called Alla Campagna, a couple of blocks off the ‘main drag,’ so to speak. This little Italian Bistro sits on the corner at 342 W. Main in an old limestone building. The space has been completely renovated and oozes charm. It’s a cozy spot, so reservations are highly recommended, especially on those busy hill country weekends.
The selections on the menu include a few tantalizing appetizers (loved the carpaccio), artisan pizzas, a handful of main entrées and well done sides–the contorni. All the pastas here are house made. I chose the daily special which was a parsley pappardelle pasta with a creamy bolognese sauce — I loved every bite. The featured pork chop was big, juicy and delicious. The Cannelini beans were identical to what we’ve had in Tuscany.
Another new eatery worthy of your time is Granite House Lounge located on 504 Granite Avenue. New Orleans cuisine is the inspiration for this cute place that occupies one of Fredericksburg’s quaint, refurbished old houses. The patio is delightful with its lofty pecan trees and string lights.
If you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or simply a relaxing afternoon under the trees with a beverage or two, Tubby’s Ice House is where a lot of the locals hang. It’s right next door to Otto’s.
Last but not least, we revisited a longtime fan favorite on Hwy 16 that we haven’t been to in years–the Cabernet Grill. Chef/owner Ross Burtwell is simply the best. The food was exquisite. This restaurant boasts a very extensive Texas wine list … something not all Fredericksburg restaurants do, oddly enough. I highly recommend a starter called “Magic Mushroom,” a Lion’s Mane Mushroom seared in a sizzling hot cast iron pan, then roasted and topped with the most heavenly butter, gorgonzola and lemony garlic sauce I’ve ever tasted. Our incredible server said there are bone marrow drippings in the mix. No wonder it was so decadently good! BTW, on this property there are some charming cottages and cabins if you’re overnighting.
We also paid a return visit to Hill and Vine, a delightful venue at 210 S. Adams St, we featured in Season 8 of our TV series Goodtaste with Tanji. You can see more here.
Bon Appétit!
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