The TEXAS thread!

[Lutter]

This definitely has to do with the DME bankruptcy.

They had over a million dollars tied up with DME building their brewhouse for the San Antonio brewhouse that evaporated when that happened. They’ve been contact brewing at Brew Hub in central Florida (at high expense) to keep up with demand till that facility opened, so that was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

******* bummer. They made great beer. Shouldn’t have happened.

https://www.brewbound.com/news/dme-receivership-leaves-hundreds-of-craft-brewers-in-limbo

 

[jbeezification1]

This definitely has to do with the DME bankruptcy.

They had over a million dollars tied up with DME building their brewhouse for the San Antonio brewhouse that evaporated when that happened. They’ve been contact brewing at Brew Hub in central Florida (at high expense) to keep up with demand till that facility opened, so that was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

******* bummer. They made great beer. Shouldn’t have happened.

https://www.brewbound.com/news/dme-receivership-leaves-hundreds-of-craft-brewers-in-limbo

Man that really sucks for them since this wasn’t even their own doing.

 

[Phischy1]

The DME bankruptcy is going to hurt a lot of breweries. It's really bad.

I'm driving to CO and we over nighted in Wichita Falls, Wichita Falls Brewing is worth a stop should you be driving through. I enjoyed most of their beers. Only open 9 montgs, a lot of promise.

 

[East1stgrocery]

This definitely has to do with the DME bankruptcy.

They had over a million dollars tied up with DME building their brewhouse for the San Antonio brewhouse that evaporated when that happened. They’ve been contact brewing at Brew Hub in central Florida (at high expense) to keep up with demand till that facility opened, so that was the straw that broke the camel’s back.

******* bummer. They made great beer. Shouldn’t have happened.

https://www.brewbound.com/news/dme-receivership-leaves-hundreds-of-craft-brewers-in-limbo

Any Idea why they Contract brewed all the way in florida and not locally or within the state of Texas? Also, there Tejas line of beers were one of the cheapest cost per case within the state of texas!

 

[Lutter]

Any Idea why they Contract brewed all the way in florida and not locally or within the state of Texas? Also, there Tejas line of beers were one of the cheapest cost per case within the state of texas!

No idea why... but Brew Hub is a ginormous contract brewing facility that specializes in that kinda thing. Maybe they couldn't find anyone locally with the capacity they needed?

http://brewhub.com/whats-on-tap/

You can see their Big Bend Hefeweizen is still on at their taproom.

 

[jeevo]

I'm going to be visiting my sister who recently moved to Little Rock. During my trip, I also plan on driving to Austin to visit one of my very good friends from high school for a few days. Never been to this part of the country, and am looking for any tips, places to stop at, touristy sightseeing, off the grid sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I enjoy pretty much anything and everything and also absolutely love driving (especially in places I haven't been), so I don't mind taking a 2 hour detour to look at a waterfall/cliff overlooking a valley or other "Instagram" worthy type pictures (I don't have Instagram, but you get my drift). This trip isn't for another few months, but I like to know what I'm getting into beforehand so I'm not left scrambling for things to do at the last minute. Preliminary brainstorming now, but the itinerary looks like Jester King, Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, and Pecan Lodge (Dallas). Any other suggestions? My friend works for PwC and accepted a position in Austin last month after 5 years in Slovakia, so he won't have any knowledge of things to do in Austin.

Tldr: Looking for things to do and see anywhere along my road trip from Little Rock to Austin below, and in the city of Austin itself.

 

[Compton25]

I'm going to be visiting my sister who recently moved to Little Rock. During my trip, I also plan on driving to Austin to visit one of my very good friends from high school for a few days. Never been to this part of the country, and am looking for any tips, places to stop at, touristy sightseeing, off the grid sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I enjoy pretty much anything and everything and also absolutely love driving (especially in places I haven't been), so I don't mind taking a 2 hour detour to look at a waterfall/cliff overlooking a valley or other "Instagram" worthy type pictures (I don't have Instagram, but you get my drift). This trip isn't for another few months, but I like to know what I'm getting into beforehand so I'm not left scrambling for things to do at the last minute. Preliminary brainstorming now, but the itinerary looks like Jester King, Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, and Pecan Lodge (Dallas). Any other suggestions? My friend works for PwC and accepted a position in Austin last month after 5 years in Slovakia, so he won't have any knowledge of things to do in Austin.

Tldr: Looking for things to do and see anywhere along my road trip from Little Rock to Austin below, and in the city of Austin itself.

Little Rock has Lost 40 and Rebel Kettle right off I-30. Hot Springs is worth the detour as well. You’re welcome to stop in Texarkana if you need a break or a place to spend the night. Plenty of lambic to drink and a free guest bedroom.

 

[jeevo]

Little Rock has Lost 40 and Rebel Kettle right off I-30. Hot Springs is worth the detour as well. You’re welcome to stop in Texarkana if you need a break or a place to spend the night. Plenty of lambic to drink and a free guest bedroom.

That's awesome. I appreciate the hospitality man. It looks like Texarkana is not too far from Little Rock, so we probably won't need a place to stay, but a meet up for a beer or something could work. Are there any cool sights you would suggest to check out in or around your town?

 

[Compton25]

That's awesome. I appreciate the hospitality man. It looks like Texarkana is not too far from Little Rock, so we probably won't need a place to stay, but a meet up for a beer or something could work. Are there any cool sights you would suggest to check out in or around your town?

There isn’t much in Texarkana honestly. Hot Springs would be a better scenic option. I’ll shoot you a PM.

 

[Lutter]

I'm going to be visiting my sister who recently moved to Little Rock. During my trip, I also plan on driving to Austin to visit one of my very good friends from high school for a few days. Never been to this part of the country, and am looking for any tips, places to stop at, touristy sightseeing, off the grid sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I enjoy pretty much anything and everything and also absolutely love driving (especially in places I haven't been), so I don't mind taking a 2 hour detour to look at a waterfall/cliff overlooking a valley or other "Instagram" worthy type pictures (I don't have Instagram, but you get my drift). This trip isn't for another few months, but I like to know what I'm getting into beforehand so I'm not left scrambling for things to do at the last minute. Preliminary brainstorming now, but the itinerary looks like Jester King, Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, and Pecan Lodge (Dallas). Any other suggestions? My friend works for PwC and accepted a position in Austin last month after 5 years in Slovakia, so he won't have any knowledge of things to do in Austin.

Tldr: Looking for things to do and see anywhere along my road trip from Little Rock to Austin below, and in the city of Austin itself.

Stop in West, Texas on the way to Austin for kolaches.

Here specifically:

Jalapeno, sausage, and cheese. Thank me later.

 

[IndianaJones]

I'm going to be visiting my sister who recently moved to Little Rock. During my trip, I also plan on driving to Austin to visit one of my very good friends from high school for a few days. Never been to this part of the country, and am looking for any tips, places to stop at, touristy sightseeing, off the grid sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I enjoy pretty much anything and everything and also absolutely love driving (especially in places I haven't been), so I don't mind taking a 2 hour detour to look at a waterfall/cliff overlooking a valley or other "Instagram" worthy type pictures (I don't have Instagram, but you get my drift). This trip isn't for another few months, but I like to know what I'm getting into beforehand so I'm not left scrambling for things to do at the last minute. Preliminary brainstorming now, but the itinerary looks like Jester King, Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, and Pecan Lodge (Dallas). Any other suggestions? My friend works for PwC and accepted a position in Austin last month after 5 years in Slovakia, so he won't have any knowledge of things to do in Austin.

Tldr: Looking for things to do and see anywhere along my road trip from Little Rock to Austin below, and in the city of Austin itself.

I might suggest Cattleack over Pecan Lodge in Dallas personally. Also, if Franklin's line is unbearably long (it will be), you could drive around the corner to Micklethwait BBQ, which is great. I think the current (debatable of course) top BBQ in Texas is Snow's BBQ in Lexington. I've always wanted to go but can't get myself to wake up early enough to make it

 

[jeevo]

Stop in West, Texas on the way to Austin for kolaches.

Here specifically:



Jalapeno, sausage, and cheese. Thank me later.

Added to my list. I don't even know what a kolach is, but I'm sure it's delicious lol.

I might suggest Cattleack over Pecan Lodge in Dallas personally. Also, if Franklin's line is unbearably long (it will be), you could drive around the corner to Micklethwait BBQ, which is great. I think the current (debatable of course) top BBQ in Texas is Snow's BBQ in Lexington. I've always wanted to go but can't get myself to wake up early enough to make it

Pecan Lodge seemed like a good spot from my just quick lunch-break research here, but I'll be diving into this more throughout the weeks. Frankin is going to be a visit for sure, and I know what I'm getting into line wise, but I plan on stopping at 3-4 other BBQ spots, so Cattleack, Micklethwait, and Snow's are places I'm going to look into. They all have a ton of positive reception, but the latter definitely caught my eye. Pretty much looks like a small house in the middle of an old Texas neighborhood, which is awesome.

I appreciate the suggestions.

 

[IndianaJones]

Added to my list. I don't even know what a kolach is, but I'm sure it's delicious lol.




Pecan Lodge seemed like a good spot from my just quick lunch-break research here, but I'll be diving into this more throughout the weeks. Frankin is going to be a visit for sure, and I know what I'm getting into line wise, but I plan on stopping at 3-4 other BBQ spots, so Cattleack, Micklethwait, and Snow's are places I'm going to look into. They all have a ton of positive reception, but the latter definitely caught my eye. Pretty much looks like a small house in the middle of an old Texas neighborhood, which is awesome.

I appreciate the suggestions.

If you're looking for more of an outdoorsy suggestion, Enchanted Rock is a cool afternoon trip from Austin. Once you're there, the hike up the rock is quick and the view enjoyable. It's the same stone that was quarried to create the Texas capitol building.

 

[Lutter]

Added to my list. I don't even know what a kolach is, but I'm sure it's delicious lol.




Pecan Lodge seemed like a good spot from my just quick lunch-break research here, but I'll be diving into this more throughout the weeks. Frankin is going to be a visit for sure, and I know what I'm getting into line wise, but I plan on stopping at 3-4 other BBQ spots, so Cattleack, Micklethwait, and Snow's are places I'm going to look into. They all have a ton of positive reception, but the latter definitely caught my eye. Pretty much looks like a small house in the middle of an old Texas neighborhood, which is awesome.

I appreciate the suggestions.

Lemme give you a little piece of advice about a place that NOBODY talks about for some reason.

https://www.blackboxbbq.com/

If you've coming from the north stop at Black Box BBQ in Georgetown (about 20 miles north of downtown Austin).

No hype up there compared to places in town but I still think that John Mueller cooks the best BBQ in the area. I'm consistently surprised there's not a line (it's kind of a sleepy town) but he's still making killer stuff daily.

In town: Mickelthwait. I ain't got time to wait 5 hours for Franklin, lol.

 

[air]

Added to my list. I don't even know what a kolach is, but I'm sure it's delicious lol.




Pecan Lodge seemed like a good spot from my just quick lunch-break research here, but I'll be diving into this more throughout the weeks. Frankin is going to be a visit for sure, and I know what I'm getting into line wise, but I plan on stopping at 3-4 other BBQ spots, so Cattleack, Micklethwait, and Snow's are places I'm going to look into. They all have a ton of positive reception, but the latter definitely caught my eye. Pretty much looks like a small house in the middle of an old Texas neighborhood, which is awesome.

I appreciate the suggestions.

While driving to Austin, the stop at West should be one block over to Gerik's instead of Czech Stop if you can spare the time. That one extra block means a significant jump in quality for the kolaches.

If you go to Snow's, IMO there isn't much reason to go to any other bbq place since it's that much better than everyone else, unless you're seriously craving to just gorge on bbq.

In Austin: The main reason for hitting Franklin is "the line experience" which honestly isn't worth it. To put it in perspective, leaving Austin at about 6 am to drive to Snow's, eat, then the drive back will put you in town around 11-noon. All of that is less time than the Franklin line since getting in line by 6:30-7 am means you likely won't get out of there by 1 pm at the earliest.

There's plenty of bbq in Austin putting out similar quality to Franklin, but without the painful wait. Valentina's and Micklethwait are where you should go instead.

Other things to do: Hamilton Pool and Enchanted Rock (and Fredericksburg while you're at it)

 

[Lutter]

While driving to Austin, the stop at West should be one block over to Gerik's instead of Czech Stop if you can spare the time. That one extra block means a significant jump in quality for the kolaches.

 

[nathanmiller]

I tend to agree with air a lot on food/drink things. But I've never agreed with him more than I do right now. Everything he said is correct.

 

[JGlitz87]

Pecan Lodge is great. I would suggest Slow Bone in Dallas over Pecan Lodge (almost as good meat and the best sides I have ever had) for the much shorter line.

 

[wolfman1201]

Other things to do: Hamilton Pool and Enchanted Rock (and Fredericksburg while you're at it)

Hamilton pool is pretty cool - just make sure its open before you go. And reservations are required:
https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve

You could also hike right in Austin (in the greenbelt) and then go jump into Barton Springs pool as well. Be forewarned, all this water is colder than you can imagine.

Also, just drive past Austin about 45 min and go to Hruskas for the best kolaches in TX (and ranger cookies). And stop at Weikels for cinnamon rolls (and some fruit kolaches).

Also, since nobody has mentioned, stop at all the Buc-ees. Get some jerky, and other souvenirs and snacks and catch a quick bathroom break. (There is a good one in Temple, and a big one in Bastrop)

 

[air]

Actually just remembered, Zamykal Bakery which used to be in Calvert moved their shop to Dallas. That's as good as it gets for kolaches and stopping by there is VERY much worth a detour: https://www.zkolaches.com/

I find Hruska's and Weikel's inconsistent. Have dropped by both during numerous trips between Houston/Austin and just gave up.

 

[Lutter]

Also, since nobody has mentioned, stop at all the Buc-ees. Get some jerky, and other souvenirs and snacks and catch a quick bathroom break. (There is a good one in Temple, and a big one in Bastrop)

The one in New Brawnfels is apparently the largest gas station in the entire country.

That place is like a Walmart inside, lol.

 

[thejukes]

I'm going to be visiting my sister who recently moved to Little Rock. During my trip, I also plan on driving to Austin to visit one of my very good friends from high school for a few days. Never been to this part of the country, and am looking for any tips, places to stop at, touristy sightseeing, off the grid sightseeing, restaurants, etc. I enjoy pretty much anything and everything and also absolutely love driving (especially in places I haven't been), so I don't mind taking a 2 hour detour to look at a waterfall/cliff overlooking a valley or other "Instagram" worthy type pictures (I don't have Instagram, but you get my drift). This trip isn't for another few months, but I like to know what I'm getting into beforehand so I'm not left scrambling for things to do at the last minute. Preliminary brainstorming now, but the itinerary looks like Jester King, Franklin Barbecue, la Barbecue, and Pecan Lodge (Dallas). Any other suggestions? My friend works for PwC and accepted a position in Austin last month after 5 years in Slovakia, so he won't have any knowledge of things to do in Austin.

Tldr: Looking for things to do and see anywhere along my road trip from Little Rock to Austin below, and in the city of Austin itself.

I can be your Little Rock food and drink sherpa if you’d like. I work downtown M-F, so give me a shout.

Also, definitely take Compton25 up on his hospitality. That guy is the best.

 

[jeevo]

Thanks for the awesome suggestions so far guys. I'll be messaging a few of you between now and then. Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool look amazing. Anymore places like this? Even if it's just pulling off to the side over the road on a highway, I'll take that. Not being familiar with Texas at all, I'm picturing the entire state is like the stunning vistas found in No Country For Old Men.

 

[Phischy1]

Thanks for the awesome suggestions so far guys. I'll be messaging a few of you between now and then. Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool look amazing. Anymore places like this? Even if it's just pulling off to the side over the road on a highway, I'll take that. Not being familiar with Texas at all, I'm picturing the entire state is like the stunning vistas found in No Country For Old Men.

Real-time Houston/Dallas/Austin Traffic

 

[reverseapachemaster1]

Real-time Houston/Dallas/Austin Traffic

That is literally 635 in Dallas

 

[Lutter]

Not being familiar with Texas at all, I'm picturing the entire state is like the stunning vistas found in No Country For Old Men.

LOL. Unless you're heading for Marfa or Big Bend National Park don't expect anything like that.

 

[air]

Thanks for the awesome suggestions so far guys. I'll be messaging a few of you between now and then. Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool look amazing. Anymore places like this? Even if it's just pulling off to the side over the road on a highway, I'll take that. Not being familiar with Texas at all, I'm picturing the entire state is like the stunning vistas found in No Country For Old Men.

Cheers. Would even be down to tag along to Altstadt's fancypants shiny new biergarten if you head to Enchanted Rock/Fredericksburg:
https://www.austinchronicle.com/columns/2018-10-19/day-trips-altstadt-brewery/
https://www.altstadtbeer.com/brewery/

 

[Lutter]

Cheers. Would even be down to tag along to Altstadt's fancypants shiny new biergarten if you head to Enchanted Rock/Fredericksburg:
https://www.austinchronicle.com/columns/2018-10-19/day-trips-altstadt-brewery/
https://www.altstadtbeer.com/brewery/

I still need to make it out to Altstadt Castle. That place is huuuuuge (drove by during construction).

That's Food Network money, btw (one of the Scripps kids).

 

[Der Fuchs]

Thanks for the awesome suggestions so far guys. I'll be messaging a few of you between now and then. Enchanted Rock and Hamilton Pool look amazing. Anymore places like this? Even if it's just pulling off to the side over the road on a highway, I'll take that. Not being familiar with Texas at all, I'm picturing the entire state is like the stunning vistas found in No Country For Old Men.

You may have a hard time finding the open outdoor areas during the winter. That doesn't necessarily mean you can't go to them, just be discreet. Having been to all the places previous mentioned along with a dozen others I'm going to suggest you trim the fat of past suggestions and head to the source of outdoor majesty Krause springs in spicewood. It's fantastic, and not as well tread as the more popular places.

https://krausesprings.net

 

[jbeezification1]

So this is happening.