Category: 0 Texas

Lake View Drive-In Marlin, TX

8/30/2018

Lunch Stop on the Road

We didn't have tons of lunch options at 11:30 in small-town, Marlin. But Don and I were more than game to try the non-chain restaurant with the words Drive-In on their sign. In fact there were 3 different signs, when we pulled in the lot.

There was no confusion about where we were.

Drive In?

As we approached the lot, I tried to determine if the place was still a drive-in. There was a lot of covered parking, at least.

Love Those Windows!

As we walked under the covering, I saw no signs of curb service, but I could see the original vintage walk-up window. And I could see a red SUV, pulled up to a drive-thru window. We walked past yet another sign, as we headed inside. "Welcome Ya'll"

Since 1946

We joined a line right away and began studying the wall. I was excited to see the words above the menu. "Serving Marlin With Pride Est. 1946" I love a small town diner, that's older than me!

The Kitchen

The line moved quickly, so we were suddenly standing at the doorway to the kitchen. The lower half of the door was closed, while a young woman took our order.

I took a good moment to peek in at the cozy kitchen, with ice cream freezer and the windows that tilted outward. There were a lot of people in that small kitchen, but they all seemed to maneuver around each other, in good spirits.

Two Rooms

We took our little wooden order-piece with #4 and headed through the first room, past a table of orange vests.

In the Back Room

As we waited for our food, I took a good look at all the western and country decor in the room. I liked the little horse hook, holding the worn hat. I noticed that no one in the room had their food and I worried for a moment that we might be in for a big wait.

Food!

Suddenly, it seemed like every employee that I'd seen in the kitchen, had entered the room at once, carrying trays of steaming food! It was humorous and a little amazing. I felt like I should offer a toast... or a prayer!

Yum!

Of course I didn't. Instead I opened up my Patty Melt, with grilled onions and pickles and dug in. It tasted so much better than it looked! Maybe that's why all the locals seemed to be eating theirs, while in the wrapper. I used a lot of napkins.

Don had the daily special. Chicken fried chicken with green beans, mashed potatoes and roll. The chicken was surprisingly moist and the gravy was extra delicious.

Off We Go

We finished up and headed out to hit the road. Before I climbed in the car I stopped. "Wait! Where's the lake view?" I had to wander back a bit to get a peek at some water. Maybe in 1946, there were no trees.

The view was not the highlight of our meal and the drive-in, was more of a drive-thru. But the food and service was pretty good!

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Allen's Fried Chicken

8/17/2018

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Road Trip Dining in Sweetwater, TX

When traveling by car, Don and I are almost always game for a food adventure. Even when the sign looks a little neglected!

Big Sign Little House

If we'd just driven into town and spotted the sign, we would have driven on by. It didn't look like a restaurant that could possibly serve a mount-watering lunch.

But for once, the TripAdvisor reviews empowered me. There wasn't a bad comment and we were warned about the deceiving appearance.

The sign clearly meant... "We're too busy cooking up a storm to fret over signs!"

Busy at 11

Seeing lots of cars so early, was a good sign.

Picking the Door

We had a pick of doors. I liked the old screen door, but that was for carryouts. We headed for the glass door, with prices clearly announced. $11.50 for Adults. That included drink and tax.

Six Family Tables

We opened the door and stepped into the dining room. The place had just opened up, but three of the six tables already had diners. A busy server greeted and pointed us towards a table with two men. I wondered to myself. Where are we supposed to sit? The table was covered in dishes.

Making Room

But the young woman quickly moved a couple serving dishes. Suddenly two clean plates were revealed beneath the bowls of veggies. Luckily the two men looked up from their plates and the ice was broken. They put us right at ease.

Studying the Empty Tables

I wanted to be invisible and observe the diners at the other tables. There were quite a few older folks and I'm guessing quite a few who had come alone. Two tables conversed and the other table was quiet, while food was gobbled.

Our Table Buddies

Our 2 guys laughed and nodded when I asked to take a photo. Then they continued to eat, letting my photo look totally candid.

It was fun hearing the stories of one, who had grown up not far from Sweetwater. He had been in the FFA Club in high school and came to town for judging. That's when he remembered eating at Allen's. He laughed about the time his friend almost got them kicked out, because the friend picked up the serving bowl of peach cobbler and started eating the whole thing. I asked if Allen's had changed much. "Not at all." He answered with a laugh.

14 Dishes

I was so curious to figure out how everything worked. Most of us just aren't used to the world of family dining... with strangers. I watched as new guests arrived to an empty table. A cart appeared from the open kitchen and fresh food was unloaded.

I counted 15 different dishes on our table! There were things I wouldn't ordinarily go for, but I ended up trying a little of everything.

Fried chicken, sweet potatoes, mashed potato salad, sliced buttered potatoes, pea salad, green beans, corn, collard greens, squash, red beans, okra, cole slaw, peach cobbler and rolls... and tea!

The fried chicken was pretty amazing... crispy crust, moist and flavorful meat! The hardest part was trying to pass dishes around our crowded table. It forced us to talk to one another, if we wanted to get to something that wasn't within reach.

The Big Table

The biggest table suddenly vacated, just as a young guy came in looking a bit lost. He was sent to our table and I was pretty excited that suddenly we were the in the know diners, who got to show him the ropes. He had been working in the area and someone recommended the place. What a brave young guy, to choose family dining over fast food!

Old Photos

Since the diners had left the big table, I took a moment to study the nearby photos on the wall. I read some news articles about Mrs. Allen and how she opened her home in 1952. She cooked in the kitchen and served in the front room, using the very table for 12, that had just been vacated.

Billy

As I studied a wall photo, a server named Tabitha paused to chat. I asked if the photo was of Mrs. Allen. "Yes. Her grandson and granddaughter are right back there." She pointed to the open kitchen. "Billy runs the place and his sister is cooking the chicken."

Tabitha insisted on calling Billy from the kitchen, to come meet me. He was pretty delightful, teasing Tabitha a bit and posing for a photo. Tabitha said she'd worked at Allen's for 19 years. "I'm not family, but they make me feel like family." When Billy was out of hearing distance, she teased about him, then got serious. "Really, he's the nicest boss ever. I don't know what I'd do, if I had to work somewhere else."

The Table

I was feeling pretty lucky that there was a lull that allowed us to chat. I guess locals know to get to Allen's, right when it opens.

Billy was able to share a little about the history and his family. He showed me the old table under the cloth. "It was the only table, 67 years ago." He said he wouldn't think of parting with it.

One More Pic

Before leaving, we got one more photo. I got my turn to pose with Billy, while the kitchen buzzed behind us. The next wave was probably about to hit.

Don and I took off with full stomachs and big grins. The whole family dining experience had been better than we'd imagined. There was a time, when we would have cringed at the idea of joining locals

for lunch at a community table. I'm glad Don is game for these wonderful road trip stops. We couldn't have been happier with our dining adventure!

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Hondo's on Main

5/24/2018

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Fredericksburg, Texas

Birthday Lunch

It's time for another throwback write-up. It's been over a year since the day we went to Hondo's. I turned 60 on that Sunday and we spent the day wandering, in historic Fredericksburg.

Hondo's wasn't a big destination restaurant. I pretty much picked it because I was intrigued by the old building. I liked the idea of the place being a whole lot older than me... like about 55 years older.

Self Help Restaurant/Bar

It was a beautiful day, when we arrived. A band was gearing up out on the patio and we had a feeling the place would be getting packed soon. We stepped inside the bar area to figure out how this place worked. Luckily, some other diners filled us in. "Order at the inside bar. Find yourself a seat. Pick up your food at the kitchen window."

Who is Hondo?

On past visits to Fredericksburg, I had always been curious about the old building. Stepping inside for the first time, it was nice to see the interior had just as much charm as the exterior. There were thick stucco walls, wooden beams, a stone fireplace and lots of photos of Hondo. I obviously needed to learn about who this Hondo person was.

Hondo by the Stage

The cute little stage with twinkle lights and stacks of beer boxes, was surrounded with more Hondo images. I felt a little bad that I've lived in Texas nearly 20 years and didn't know about Hondo Crouch. I quickly learned that Hondo was the writer and humorist, who became the self-proclaimed mayor of Luckenbach, Texas.

Luckenbach in 2015

Here is Luckenbach in 2015, when Don and I stopped by on July 4th weekend. We knew about the Texas Hill Country "town" made famous by Waylon Jennings in 1977. But we didn't know about Hondo Crouch, who bought the town for $30,000 in 1970.

Hondo's Daugther

Hondo died in 1976, before the song. But his daughter and her husband decided to bring a little of Hondo's spirit to life, when they opened the Fredericksburg bar/restaurant and music venue.

Don and I managed to find an open table outside and settled in to enjoy the music and people watching. It wasn't exactly like the dance hall at Luckenbach, with its daily live music. But it was relaxed and entertaining.

People Watching

There was lots of good people watching. I was sorry I hadn't worn my cowboy hat. I guess that's because I don't have one. But I could have worn boots.

Cool Drinks

Don and I toasted to the day, with margarita and beer and waited for our order.

Burgers and Soup

Our food didn't take long. I recall Don's burger was extra yummy, topped with crispy onion strings, bacon and cheese.

I'm afraid I have totally failed to remember what kind of soup and salad I had. I think I had some kind of Cobb Salad or something. I do remember liking the soup, even though the photo doesn't look so good.

Rating the Restroom

Worst of all I can't remember what was amusing about the restroom and why I took the photo. Was it just that there was a hole in the shape of a star on the door? Or was there something unusual about the Ladies Room? (I often find old restrooms can be part of the dining adventure) I can't remember for the life of me what the significance was.

Thats the problem with a throw-back write-up... when you don't take notes. I'll just have to go back and enjoy again!

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Power Plant Texas Grill

5/22/2018

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Seguin, Texas

It's not every day that you get a chance to dine in what was once a power plant. A while back, Don and I made a lunch stop, to have a dam-view, restaurant experience!

Engine Room

I loved the idea of eating inside the impressive brick structure. This building operated as a gristmill in the early 1900's and was converted into a hydroelectric plant in 1940.

Diesel Engine

We could have eaten some burgers, right beside the Busch-Sulzer Diesel Engine!

Or...

We could have nibbled on fries, while studying hefty pieces of machinery.

Engineering

Evidently it took some creative engineering to get this place reopened after years of sitting vacant. There was leveling and bridge building... kitchen and deck construction and all sorts of things I don't understand.

I also know nothing about all cool machinery inside the engine room. I do know it fascinated my engineer husband, who wandered and studied, while I saw about getting a table.

Food with a View!

It was hard to give up the idea of dining within those brick walls, where we could have imagined the noise and activity 100 years ago. But the weather was too lovely on a spring day.

Eye on the Dam

Even without the history, this view was pretty ideal. It was fun imagining the scene through the years. It may have been a beaver dam that inspired the first original mill dam, way over 100 years ago. By the late 1800's, Henry Troell was the owner and the mill evolved into a power plant with the installation of electro-hydraulic generators.

"S" Shaped Fall

I guess the bend of the Guadalupe River had something to do with this "S" shaped curve. It was so pleasing to the eye. The trees were just beginning to get green and the warm spring temps made the breeze feel just right.

We ordered and hoped our food didn't come too fast.

The Special

I couldn't turn down the meatloaf, since it was featured as their in house daily special. The dark gravy was tasty on the mashed potatoes and meatloaf. The roll took me back to my hot lunches in grade school. And that is a good thing. Don got the Power Burger and it was quite decent.

The Turbine Room

Our waiter encouraged us to cross the bridge and take a peek at the Turbine Room. I'm guessing the space is used for private gatherings or overflow. What a dramatic view, looking straight down on the water!

The Turbine Wheel

In 1886, Henry Troell was given permission by Seguin Waterworks Company to install a 54-inch turbine wheel at his power dam. This is the wheel that allowed water to be pumped to the Seguin area. Troell must have been a pretty big man on Seguin's campus, back in the day. No one took power for granted back then.

Next Time

We need to get back to Seguin and do a little Power Dining in the evening. I'm not sure where the sun sets or what kind of crowd fills the place at night. But it might be worth a visit!

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Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

5/20/2018

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Sugar Land, Texas

I love sushi and I love a little fun with my dining. So when this unique sushi bar moved to a new shopping area near our home, I was pretty excited.

Revolving Sushi?

I had no clue about "revolving sushi" until my daughter filled me in. Heidi has enjoyed food on a conveyor belt, in Japan and she's also had the "Kura" experience in Austin, where she lives. We're lucky we don't have to travel to find a Kura. There are a number of them in Texas and California... and one in Georgia.

When Heidi visited Sugar Land in February, we gave it a try, arriving on a busy Sunday night.

The Wait

Heidi, showed us how to check in on the electronic tablet. We could keep an eye on our progress by watching the numbers, as they lit up on the screen. We also got a warning text, to let us know we'd be seated soon. That was helpful, in case we wanted to wander outside a bit. But we stayed inside with the crowd, standing patiently. We chuckled with a few others nearby. We agreed that we did not want to end up at the table near the door, surrounded by the waiting crowd.

Eating at the Counter?

There were table options as well as counter seating. It was tempting to sit facing the parade of food, like these folks. But I wasn't sure we would get the full experience.

Food and Toys

I learned a little something by watching a nearby table. The kids seemed pretty delighted with the table-side contraption that offered up prizes. But I watched other tables and realized it was not just for kids.

In the past, you had to be a kid to get a toy with your food. There were no Happy Meals when I was a kid. However the Flaming Pit had a treasure box, where kids got to choose a prize, after dining with their parents. More on prizes later...

Corner Table!

Yay! We got a corner table. I sat with the food prep behind me and the conveyor belt beside me. I could also see some little eyes, peering at the moving food.

Mr. Fresh

There were a few helpful signs, like this one.

But even with this explanation about the special serving dish, called Mr. Fresh, I was still glad to have Heidi along to keep me from make a beginner mistake, like grabbing the whole container off the belt.

It was very exciting and slightly intimidating.

You Like, You Grab

Heidi let Don and me sit by the exciting revolving belt that wound around the restaurant. Don skillfully grabbed a plate of Soy Sake Marinated Salmon Nigiri. The lid popped up properly and he neatly placed the little $2.25-dish right on our table.

Cheers

Not everything was available on the moving belt. Sake, Udon, Ramen, Tempura and desserts could all be ordered from a food screen. A waiter initially greeted our table for any special requests.

Quick and Fresh

After our 25 minute wait, it was nice not having to wait for food. We saw what we liked and grabbed.

It was also nice to learn that Kura serves all organic foods, free of additives and MSG. I also was pleased to find out that there's a system for automatically disposing of the uneaten food plates, that for some reason don't get picked. So no worries about picking a food that's been lingering.

Eating with Pros

I was the only one at our table who has not eaten sushi in Japan. Don used to travel on business. Heidi and her husband Jamie, were engaged in Japan. Also, Don and Heidi share an odd college experience, 30+ years apart. Both spent a period of time at University of Michigan, eating dorm food only with chopsticks. I love dining with pros.

Nigiri...

It's hard to pass up some bright salmon and fresh tuna, when it rolls on by. We ended up eating lots of basic nigiri, but the rolls were tasty as well. The green plates were all $2.25, which seemed like such a bargain, but it's also easy to get carried away with the fun. That's kind of how I remember cafeterias as a kid. It's so easy to grab a lot!

A Giddy Diner

I obviously loved the little box that held my food. I was pretty excited about the whole concept of this place. I also seemed to be the only one looking around and snapping pics, like a tourist.

In fact I felt like I was a tourist on a trip. We live in Fort Bend County, which is ranked the most diverse U.S. county, in many studies. When I looked around, I could easily imagine that I was actually eating a meal in Japan. None of the other diners seemed to make a fuss over the exciting vibe. No one else seemed to be "learning the ropes".

Relaxed Staff

I turned around in my booth to peek at the "sushi makers" now and then. They seemed pretty laid back in the festive atmosphere. I should have paid closer attention to observe the system for adding and removing plates from the belt. For a moment, I amused myself with a thought of the iconic I Love Lucy episode. Except I pictured Lucy, stuffing her mouth full of salmon and shrimp, instead of chocolate!

Bikkura-Pon!

This was my first dining experience that involved a little game-like fun, at the table.

Above our table and the belt, we had our own colorful screen. There was a little animation first and then some words, encouraging us to "defeat him" by inserting more plates. Below the moving belt was the slot, where we inserted our empty green plates. Our plates became tokens to keep the story moving on the screen.

The Prize

Above the animation screen, was a clear box that held the round prize holders. I was glad we had 3 people since it took 15 plates to earn a prize. I felt like I was in Vegas when we inserted the 15th plate and the Bikurra-Pon released a red & green ball! Down the slide it came, landing in the plastic tray! Oh boy, a little stamper. It was pretty lame for over 35 dollars worth of sushi. But I didn't care. I was the kid that bought Cracker Jacks, just for the prize.

Share the Prize

What a fun food outing! It wasn't the absolute best sushi I've had, but it was the quickest and most entertaining!

Maybe next time I go, I can ride my bike.

It's close enough and that add to the playful dining theme. I could also leave the prize behind, like one person did. I pity the families with kids, begging the parents to purchase 15 more plates for another prize! Yikes.

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The Big Texan Steak Ranch

5/16/2018

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Amarillo, Texas

Last year, Don and I headed from Texas to Colorado and made a very special lunch stop in Amarillo.

After spotting numerous billboards along I-40, the Big Texan Cowboy came into view!

This big guy has been welcoming hungry travelers since 1960, when R. J. "Bob" Lee built the original restaurant on Route 66.

Traveling Cowboy

It must have been exciting to watch the big sign go up in 1960. But it might have been even more exciting, when the sign was moved by helicopter to a new location in 1970.

Relocation was Bob's answer, when there were concerns about the construction of I-40, rerouting travelers away from The Mother Road. Bob was smart enough to buy land along the future I-40, so they were able to open up an even bigger and better Big Texan Steak Ranch.

Time for Lunch!

This is how the bright, yellow building looked when we pulled up on a Tuesday, in early June. I didn't have to fight any tourists to pose with "Big Moo"!

In 1970

If we'd arrived on opening day 47 years ago, we would have parked in the unpaved lot. The flags in this old photo make me think there was probably lots of dust whipping around that lot.

Feeling Giddy

Luckily, Don and I were both on the same page about this lunch stop. We were more than ready to take in the fun of this iconic place. This kind of dining adventure doesn't go over, if one is being dragged along.

Don is not usually one to put his face in the hole, for a photo. But we were open for a silly good time and he was happy to pose with his face above the cartoonish steak.

Game for a 72-Ounce Steak?

As soon as we stepped into the carnival style interior, we learned about the 4.5 pound steak challenge. Don and I were up for a good time, but neither of us had any desire to break records. Evidently the 1st place record went to a diner who ate the steak in 4 minutes. Yuck.

Festive, but Quiet

If it had been July or a weekend, I'm sure the place would have been swarming. I was pretty content, not dealing with crowds. If there had been more people, I might have missed some of the details... like those dandy saddles, lined up along the shooting gallery.

Off to the Dining Room

Don and I headed past the fudge counter and the stuffed grizzly, to get to the dining hall. Gals in cowboy hats and bolo ties, greeted us with Texas twangs. We were lead into the rustic, 2-story dining hall.

Cowboy Hats and Critters

The western-style dining room had lots to look at. I loved the rock-covered wall by the entrance. I wanted to climb that wall and check on the bears and moose, up there.

The staff was easily spotted in their cowboy attire. The tables were only about half full, so we got speedy service.

Fur Covered Tables

Don and I were seated at the end of a long community table, covered in cowhide. Well, it looked that way. It was really a plastic table cloth.

Don ordered the "Whoop Your Donkey" Double IPA, "triple dry, hopped with a malty backbone." Since the beer was actually brewed at Big Texan, I should have suggested they change the name. I happen to adore donkeys.

Smiling

I can't remember what's behind that Mona Lisa smile. Maybe Don took a picture when I was listening to David Waddle, the strolling cowboy singer.

Musician and More

We had a nice chat with David when he came to our table. Don requested a song by Bob Wills, since we had just traveled through Turkey, Texas... "Home of Bob Wills". David was happy to. He'd just been to the Bob Wills Festival in Turkey. He'd played many roles at the festival... Pit Master, Musician and Dancer. We didn't get to see him dance or cook. He did a nice job singing, though.

Love Them Dishes!

Don and I don't do huge feasting when on the road. You don't want your driver (or navigator) sleepy. Don just had a side of chili and a pulled pork sandwich. The plate was the exciting part to me. I would have bought one of those hefty china dishes, if I could have afforded it. They were $32. in the gift shop.

Potato Pan

I had the 5-dollar potato, served in a sturdy little pan. That was a pretty lame choice for dining in a steakhouse, but that's pretty much all I wanted. It was tasty.

Upstairs

Before hitting the road, we wandered up to the second level to get a view of the tables. It was a good place for people watching. I was a little jealous of the kiddos I spotted. It looked like they were given little cowboy hats with their kiddie meals. Or did they all just have parents who said "okay" in the gift shop?

Big Moo

When I said good-bye to Big Moo, I was reminded of my mom and how much she would have loved this dining adventure.

Mom's nickname with her own 4 kids, was Moo. She also was a big fan of curious cafes and roadside diners. Moo would have loved this place.

If only Moo had been with us, she would have been the one posing with Big Moo!

Next Time

I love an oddball dining adventure, but I also love my curious motel/hotel adventures. I had no idea Big Texan had it's own motel options! This motel had a super corny western facade that I pretty much loved. And of course the Big Cowboy was towering above! Maybe on another road trip, we'll stop for the night AND devour a little steak!

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Himalaya in Houston

5/11/2018

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Indian & Pakistani Feasting

My friend Kristi and I tried Himalaya a couple years ago. We weren't overly impressed, mostly because we felt a little rushed at lunch. So last week, we met up with our husbands to give the place another try.

Since our last visit, Himalaya has had a few big spotlights, on national TV and radio. The tiny restaurant was featured on CNN's show, Anthony Bordain's: Parts Unknown. NPR aired a program, describing Himalaya's cuisine as Pakistani & Indian, with deep Texas roots.

Don and I arrived on a Thursday evening at 6:30. We parked in the strip mall lot and counted about 5 other options for Indian food. That was no surprise since we were in the Houston area, known as the Mahatma Gandhi district. I was feeling sort of at home in the area, since I'd recently spent 5 hours shopping at a number of Sari Shops across the street... for an Indian wedding. I should have dressed up for dinner!

Cozy

Once Kristi and Jim arrived we headed inside. I wanted to wander and study the decorated walls, but the cozy space filled up too quickly. I wanted to ask about the Latin American art on the back wall. I wanted to know if it was left over from the Columbian Restaurant that was once housed in the space. But I was too intimidated to wander and ask questions. Don and I had read a few reviews from diners who said the restaurant was unfriendly. I don't usually let whiney reviews sway me, but I also didn't want to risk ruining the evening with Kristi and Jim.

Wine and Menus
As soon as we were seated, a waiter arrived with menus, a corkscrew and plastic glasses. He'd seen our wine bottle and he was on top of it. It's nice going to a BYOB restaurant that doesn't charge a fee or make you stress over asking about policies.

The meun was packed with options. I noticed the Hunter's Beef Plate, that Kristi and I ordered last time. There was a Persian Kabob that sounded good. But the words, "Mild, Kid Friendly" made it sound like only wimps ordered that. There were lots of Bourdain approved dishes marked, with red thumbs. It seems we'd only looked for a moment before the waiter had returned to take our order. Oh dear. Are we being rushed?

Samosas

We bought ourselves some decision time, by ordering veggie samosas. They arrived piping hot, with some sauces. Very yummy!

Our Feast

After a few bites of samosa, the chef and owner Kaiser Lashkari arrived to take our order. I'd recognized him (from TV) when we first walked in. He seemed terribly serious with his pen and pad, when he asked for my order. But I still hadn't decided. "You go first, Jim." I pleaded. I did not get reprimanded for being slow.

Then the food arrived and heavenly aromas hit our table. This photo poorly reveals our 4 entrees and 3 orders of nan bread. I had not planned on writing this up or I might have requested "hands off!" to get a better photo.

More Hands

I took one more photo, but, hands were still grabbing. So I stopped snapping and grabbed for food myself.

My dish was the big one... a mountain of Chicken Biryani and Basmati rice! We also had Chicken Hara Masala, Dal Gosht with goat and Lamb Vindaloo. All were wonderful. The garlic nan and butter nan was amazing. Poor Kristi can't do cilantro, so she missed out on some of the bread.

Indo-Everything

I couldn't quite read all the reviews and awards above our table, but I think most of awards come from Chef Lashkari's creative approach to blending Indo-Pakistani flavors with other styles of food.

Next time, I'll have to try a little Texas Smoked Brisket Masala. Or maybe for an Indo-Cajun option, I'll try the Crawfish Masala Etoufee. There's even an Indian quesadilla and an Indi-Shephard's Pie!

Meeting the Owner

After we'd relaxed into our food, Mr. Lashkari stopped by the table. We complimented the food and I asked if he was the owner. His face stayed serious and he answered. "No." There was a pause and then he added. "My wife is the owner, I just work here." Then he laughed a totally relaxed laugh.

I asked the question Don often dreads. "Would you mind being in a photo?" "Sure!" Lashakri boomed. "Let's do a selfie!" We gathered around the "star" and Jim used his long arm to snap a pic of our group. It's a little blurry, but it captures the happy moment!

Sometimes it takes a trip or two to know the ropes. I'm ready for a third trip to Himalaya. I hear there's a pretty flavorful Indo-Pakistani Chicken Fried Steak that might need some taste testing!

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Larry's Original in Richmond, TX

5/9/2018

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Heading for the Sign, on Cinco de Mayo!

Larry's may not sound like the name of a Mexican Restaurant, but that is the nickname of Eberardo Guerrero, who opened this restaurant over 50 years ago.

The sign may be considered politically incorrect to some, with its stereotypical image of a sombrero wearing Mexican sleeping in the shade of a cactus. But this sign has been drawing customers from Highway 90, since 1960.

More Signage

Don and I live only 5 miles from Larry's, so we decided to head over for a festive lunch on Cinco de Mayo. We parked beneath another Larry sign and headed for the front door.

Little Change

Not much has changed since we moved to Sugar Land and visited Larry's, almost 20 years ago. I'm pretty sure these red lamps were here then and probably when the restaurant opened, in 1960.

More Lamps

We passed by a few more festive lamps, before opening the door. I read the sign above the glass and was glad I did't see the words, "No Costumes" added to the list.

I sort of felt like I was wearing a costume, when I put on my festive Mexican dress with colorful embroidery. "Please don't be embarrassed." I begged Don. "I have to wear this, because it's Cinco de Mayo and when else..."

Not Busy... Yet

It wasn't even noon yet, so there were plenty of open tables with colorful chairs. A little mariachi music made my outfit seem just right. But the serious waiter who motioned for us to be seated, made me suddenly feel self-concious. Clearly this restaurant was open for business as usual. No whooping it up for those Americans who love to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Efficient Service

Our waiter was efficient, delivering our menus, chips and salsa. I never felt rushed, but I could sense that his energy was already geared up, for a crowd. Sure enough, by the time my chicken taco salad and Don's chicken enchiladas and soft tacos arrived, the place was filling up. Our waiter's pace suddenly fit.

Better than before?

It's been a long time since Don and I stopped to eat at Larry's. I honestly don't remember the food and menu that well, but the food was a tasty surprise. I was amazed at the amount of chicken in my salad. Don ended up with leftovers that fed him lunch the next day.

Not only do I now appreciate the food a little more, but I appreciate the history.

Wandering Around

I already looked out of place in my silly dress, so I figured I'd just wander around and study some of the artwork and old photos and learn some history. There was a photo of the original Larry, who died over 10 years ago. His son took over for a number of years and now his grandson, Eberardo Guerrero III manages the family owned restaurant. Elenor, the daughter-in-law of the Larry Sr., works the cash register.

Retro Counter

Elenor was seated with friends at a table near the candy-covered counter. As I wandered over, she popped up and was happy to answer my questions. I'm not sure when she met her husband, (the son of the first Larry) but she said she first ate at the restaurant when she was about 19. She laughed about how little had changed. "If we try to change anything, people get mad. They like it just the way it is."

Good People Encounters

By the time our waiter brought our check, he had slowed down to laugh with us a bit. He chuckled about Don's name. "Don Don!" Don gets this a lot, since Don is a courtesy title that goes before the name. He was confused by my name Beth, until I said it was short for Elizabeth. He seemed to think that was very royal and told me the Spanish word for crown. I wish I had a photo of our waiter!

Posing with Elenor

After a little more chatting with Elenor at the cash register, I convinced her to pose with me for a photo. She was quite a good sport, saying she doesn't usually do photos.

Heading Out

I had one last people encounter, just as we stepped out the door. A blond woman wearing a purple version of my Mexican dress, was headed inside. "Oh! I like your dress!" I laughed, as I held the door for her. "I like yours, too." She added.

To bad I didn't get her to pose with me!

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Billie Dean's Cafe in Matador, TX

8/17/2017

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One of Two Dinner Options

This was the restaurant Don and I chose when we recently spent a night in Matador, Texas. We spotted the cafe when we stopped for gas. I walked a few steps from the gas pumps to inspect the oddly painted building. I didn't realize until after we checked into our hotel, that this would be our only option for dinner.

A Restaurant and Motel

I failed to get a photo of Billie Dean's Motel, that stood a few yards away. That's probably because I was a little intimidated by the dusty characters who had just pulled up to the motel, on 3 motorcycles.

Monday Night in Matador

Don and I returned in the evening and chose a booth beside the Matador mural. We chuckled at the image of the Saturday night bather, enjoying a good scrubbing at sunset. After a while a few of the other tables were occupied by locals. We sipped our waters and absorbed a little of the Matador culture around us.

Taco Salad Served with a Smile

Our young server in gym shorts and French braided hair was extremely welcoming to everyone who walked in the door. I was surprised at her confidence, greeting the bikers, when they walked in the door, looking for dinner. They were cleaned up a bit, but still looked worn and weary.

The young girl seemed totally at ease as she cheerily invited them to find a seat. I was delighted to see how these gruff looking men in leather jackets and chains, spoke to her with such gracious manners. Good for her and good for them. The bikers and the young girl had fooled me by behaving differently than I expected.

Chicken Fried Chicken and More Observations

While Don ate his chicken fried chicken with curly fries, I observed a few more guests. A 30-ish man dined alone. When his food arrived, he bowed his head and prayed for the longest time. I so wish he had spoken aloud. I wondered what words he actually spoke.

Then a large family took over a couple tables. The mom, dad and grandmother all seemed pleasantly involved with the 6 or so children. The group of kids was delightfully diverse, like Brad and Angelina's kids. If we hadn't been in such a small Texas town, I wouldn't have noticed how unique this family seemed. There was no praying at this table, but they seemed as courteous as the bikers and as respectful as the praying man.

All Done

The owner was going through receipts when we checked out. He paused to chat and told us that Billie Dean's had been open for 54 years. We stepped outside and looked across the highway. The sunset wasn't exactly like the mural, but it was nice.

Dining in Matador

There wasn't a whole lot to our dining adventure in Matador, but I figured it was worth mentioning. I guess it was Pat who we spoke with at check out. His parents opened the motel/restaurant/gas station business in 1964. I learned later that Billie Jean was Pat's mom. I wish I'd learned more.

I'm glad we weren't put off by the peeling exterior paint or we would have missed out on a pleasant piece of Matador. We didn't have to spend much to get a decent meal, while we relearned the old lesson. "Don't judge a book by its cover." That goes for buildings as well as people.

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Whistle Stop Cafe in Decataur, TX

6/13/2017

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Appealing Signs

How could Don and I resist this little stone cafe? The neon window signs announced "chili" and "Apple Pie"
and the big red cafe sign had the best name!

A Cafe and More

Don and I were headed on Highway 81, towards Colorado. We were actually keeping our eyes peeled for a "petrified gas station" that we'd read about. I was eager to see the old wooden station that had been covered with a mosaic of petrified wood, years ago. It was a nice surprise to find a cluster of roadside buildings, beside the petrified Texaco station.

Lunchtime

The cafe was crowded with locals at 11:45 on a Monday. We waited a few minutes before a table opened.

Decor

Once seated, I peeked at the menu, but spent a little more time peeking at the decor surrounding our table. Ruffly curtains and framed photos... and quite a nifty clock collection!

The People

Don and I stood out in the crowd. We were the only ones who bothered to look at the menu. One server welcomed her granddaughter and teased her son. A man in a cowboy hat leaned over and talked to another table. I sort of felt like we'd crashed a private party.

Daily Special

It seemed like one of us should go for the daily special, so I got the chicken fried chicken, with salad, beans, mashed taters and salad. The salad was oddly shredded.

The beans were sort of tasty with ham. The potatoes were bland and the chicken...well? We'd been talking a lot about petrified wood. Maybe that's why the only word that came to my mind when I took a bite, was the word, petrified. I'm not usually so negative. But Don's tunafish sandwich was good!

The Memorable Part

I was sad the food hadn't been better. I was disappointed that we hadn't been able to chat with any of the staff for more cafe history. (It opened in 1927. That's all I learned) But I will never forget the wonderful petrified gas station and Motor Camp that stood nearby. What a hoot!

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Lake View Drive-In Marlin, TX

Allen's Fried Chicken

Hondo's on Main

Power Plant Texas Grill

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Himalaya in Houston

Larry's Original in Richmond, TX

Billie Dean's Cafe in Matador, TX

Whistle Stop Cafe in Decataur, TX

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