While moving over the wide, rolling expanse of the Texas Hill Country, driving through towns of all sizes, it’s hard not to notice the eateries local to each spot on the map. For every restaurant you see sliding by out the window, there are most likely more just off the main drag.

They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. From those with brightly-painted walls to the understated, unassuming building with a simple sign hanging from a post, these restaurants dotting the hill country are ready to serve up the grub, be it simple chicken tacos or four-star gourmet fare.

Whether you’re out hiking the hills, visiting the shops along a town’s main street, or simply driving through, it’s worth stopping in for a bite. With the selection the Hill Country has to offer, the food is a destination all its own.

Many food finds in the hill country are influenced by the area’s roots that stretch deep into the past. In the 1800s, people left what is now Germany and made their way across the Atlantic and then the Texas wilderness. They settled in small groups amongst the hills. Through many difficulties, often fatal, they made lives for themselves. You can see their influence today with town names such as Fredericksburg, New Braunfels, Boerne, and in the cuisine of those towns.

Texas’ Mexican heritage also shows through with a wide variety of restaurants sprinkled all around. Diners can find Tex-Mex flair or food from even further south of the border from restauranteurs who have brought cooking styles up from deep within Mexico.

Craving a juicy hamburger? That craving can definitely be satisfied. Alamo Springs Cafe (107 Alamo Rd., Fredericksburg; 830-990-8004; alamospringscafe.com) has been named one of the top burgers in Texas in the August 2009 Texas Monthly magazine--their green chile cheeseburger with grilled onions and avocado was featured on the front cover. Check out Alamo Springs, located outside Fredericksburg near the Old Tunnel Wildlife Area.

If you’re looking for more adventurous fare, Texans have taken food from abroad and made it their own. Russo’s (602 Steve Hawkins Pkwy, Marble Falls; 830-693-7091; texitally.com) blends together Texas and Italy on their unique and unforgettable menu. The prices are just right for every budget.

For lighter cuisine, A Taste of Thyme (7407 FM 2147, Horseshoe Bay; 830-598-4963; atasteofthyme.biz) serves up outstanding breakfasts and lunches in a bright, elegant setting.

The Hill Country has even more to offer–barbecue, diners, pies, and more. Many restaurants offer more than just food, also serving up live music and other entertainment as well. It’s all out there, waiting for you to mosey on down the road from your Hill Country adventures.

Sabinal Wild Hog Festival | More Advertisers