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The Hill Country is an extension of the great eating opportunities—the amazing Tex-Mex and barbecue—of San Antonio and Austin, with the addition of heavy German influences. Fredericksburg certainly corners the market for relatively authentic German fare, but Boerne, Comfort, New Braunfels, and everywhere in between serve decent schnitzel and wurst. Barbecue bests are spread all over: the Salt Lick in Driftwood, Cooper's in Llano, and Cooper's in Mason (it's not a chain; they just happen to have the same name), and Rudy's Country Store in a number of locations between Austin and San Antonio, and in Leon Springs.
On the Hill Country backroads you're not going to get a whole lot of haute cuisine delivered by celebrity chefs, but you'd be surprised at some of the fine dining experiences you can have here. Two upscale restaurants to try in Fredericksburg are August E's and Rebecca's Table.
Most places are casual in the Hill Country. You may want to don your Sunday best for a few places, but you really don't need to. Boots and jeans are formal enough for the average restaurant, especially for men. You'll see plenty of local women wearing "country-chic" clothing, such as embroidered, tailored blazers, or swishy broomstick skirts—with boots, of course. In the summer heat you'll see many patrons wearing just about anything that keeps them cool.
Don't expect to dine too late into the evenings. With the exception of a few live-music bars and venues, most restaurants and cafés are finished serving by 9 or 10, especially during the week.
A local favorite, famous for delicious coffee and pastries—sweets and savories attract a crowd camped out at their laptops in this two-room coffeehouse, or outside on the adorable patio. Try a fruit-studded scone or croissant sandwich for breakfast, spicy vegan chickpea sandwich for lunch, and stay as long as you like.
Occupying a historic building that was formerly home to the Keidel Pharmacy, this modern coffeehouse serves great coffee and local pastries and a small menu of salads and sandwiches—it’s a perfect place to catch your breath during a whirlwind shopping tour of Fredericksburg. Beautiful tiled tables, original tin ceilings and wood floors, and an open, spacious feel create a relaxing environment, perfect for hanging out with a laptop, coffee and a pastry, or friends.
A cool, eclectic shop with new and vintage pottery, baskets, and tabletop—everything from a vintage ice cream scoop to plates emblazoned with a quirky stag imprint. There is a coffee bar up front with excellent coffee and pastries (the croissants are flaky and delicious) and a champagne bar if you need a bit of bubbly while you shop. Rockhaus is literally connected to Farmhaus Antiques, and if you continue to meander, you’ll also want to check out the Farmhaus for a beautifully curated selection of clothes, home goods, and jewelry.
