Chuy's in Austin

Chuy's is an Austin institution that has spread to many other locations outside Austin and outside Texas, the original Barton Springs location is still my favorite. On this visit we went to the one off of W. William Cannon in Austin.  There are a ton of reviews about Chuy's out there and for Tex-Mex they are difficult to beat. The chips are light and the salsa is flavorful. Service is speedy and professional despite the wait for a table and crowds on a Saturday night. Portions are huge. Decor is a pinata explosion meets Elvis.

Chicken flautas, refried beans, guacamole and sour cream

 
I had the chicken flautas, my sister had carne guisada tacos, and my brother in law had the Chicka-chicka boom-boom which is pulled chicken in a green chili tomatillo sauce. We were all stuffed and happy.

If you find yourself near one and you are craving Tex-Mex, give Chuy's a chance.

Gristmill Restaurant in historic Gruene, TX

Looking up from our table toward the main entrance

The Gristmill is located on the river in Gruene, TX, outside of New Braunfels.  It is HUGE and a popular spot. A destination restaurant if you will, with corresponding tourist prices.

My sister and I weren't terribly hungry so we both got sandwiches.  She had a club and I had a chicken salad.  My chicken had been grilled first which was a nice touch and it boosted the flavor.

For a starter we ordered the garlicky hot sauce and chips.  It was fresh and it was garlicky but not super hot (for me anyway).  Price $5--no refills.

The sandwiches cost around $9 each but didn't come with a side.  We shared an order of their round cut potatoes but they weren't brought out hot which was a disappointment. Price $3.  The sandwiches were very large. I ate mine with a fork. 

Chicken salad sandwich and potato rounds

Service was adequate.  I think our server was new.

Next time, I'll go back in warmer weather and sit outside so I can enjoy the view and order a  burger or a chicken-fried steak.  Lots of people seemed to like the ribs too.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar | 1287 Gruene Rd. | New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 830-625-0684

Red River Steakhouse--McLean, TX

Update June 2019--Unfortunately, the past few visits to Red River Steakhouse have been disappointing. Steaks were stringy and tough. The gravy for the chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes tasted like flour and water with hardly any seasoning. Right now, the only recommendations I can give are for the burgers, fries, and the side salad. I hope they get back on their game.

If you ever find yourself on Interstate 40 or traveling old historic Route 66 between the Oklahoma line and Amarillo, Texas, it would be worth your while to forgo fast food if you are peckish and stop at the Red River Steakhouse in tiny McLean. They have been open since 1997 and have quite the following in the region. I particularly enjoy the chicken fried steak as it reminds me of my Grandma's CFS. The big dinner salad filled with fresh veggies and homemade Ranch dressing (though on my last visit they had run out of mushrooms and cucumbers) is another plus. On Friday and Saturday nights they usually have specials--barbeque ribs and sausage on Friday and prime rib on Saturday--often with live music in the back dining room.

Pan-fried chicken fried steak, gravy and a baked potato with sour cream

The menu has steaks, sandwiches, chicken, pork chops and such. The meals are large enough that you won't need an appetizer. Brown bread and butter are brought to your table after you are seated. 

My dining companions enjoyed their steaks and the prices were reasonable. No gouging the tourists passing though. I tend to stick with the chicken fry or a patty melt. Though I have enjoyed the catfish there too. All dinners come with a smidgen of cobbler, peach or plum, your choice.

Go ahead and stop in if you are ever journeying across the Texas Panhandle. You won't be sorry. While you are in McLean you can also check out the Barbed Wire and Rt. 66 museum.

Service is very friendly. Decor is rustic. Closed on Sunday and Monday.  No alcohol is served.

Red River Steakhouse

HOURS OF OPERATION:
Tuesday ~ Saturday
11a.m. to 9 p.m.

101 W. Hwy 66
McLean, TX 79057

806-779-8940

DIRECTIONS:
We are located in McLean, Texas, at the intersection of highway 273 and old Route 66 (or business loop I-40).