Cindi's Texas Visit to Inn on the Creek
by Cindi Sutter, Founder & Editor of Spirited Table®
The Lone Star State is my birthplace; so after 31 years in Minnesota, I find that it's best to visit Texas when I have time to "make the rounds" with family and friends. So on that note, I spent the last 2 weeks of October visiting four different areas. My adventure began in one of my favorite cities, Austin; where my longtime girlfriends proceeded to cook, entertain and provide perfectly planned visits to places I had actually never been. Of course I also forced myself to enjoy all the spoils of Austin.
My second night in Texas was spent at Inn on the Creek in Salado, Texas; a short drive from Austin. I was so impressed with this particular venue, I'm spreading some Texas hospitality and the beauty of this area around so you might just consider it for your mid-winter getaway.
When we arrived at Inn on the Creek it was after a day of shopping the quaint streets of Salado, drinking beer from Chupacabra craft brewery and in general...just being a tourist. So... it was time to relax and watch the lazy river from the backyard of the Inn. I know...looks like a tough night below, sipping rose' by the creek, feet away from the deer all the while watching the sunset over the local church.
In their own words, the proprietors of Inn on the Creek reveal it's hidden treasure.
"You won’t simply stay in a room for the night. With Inn on the Creek, guests will explore beautiful landscapes, discover historic architecture, dine between unique casual & culinary restaurants, and at the end of the day, wrap themselves in the softest sheets. We offer twenty-two private quarters with many special accommodations for guests to enjoy, and each room includes full complimentary breakfast services. For those hosting an intimate affair or a large gala, the properties at Inn on the Creek also offer an on-site venue for corporate events, business retreats, weddings, and family gatherings. Our staff and facilities provide world-class options to create your own unforgettable experience."
My girlfriend and I enjoyed dinners fit for a Queen! Here are a few of the choices on their dinner menu; but you must pop into Alexander's Distillery or the upstairs terrace, for a drink before dinner.
The next morning after a 3 course all-inclusive breakfast we met the owner of this fabulous place and we officially fell in love with his spirit, his vision, and this very special locale.
So if you're dying for a taste of Texas over the long winter, please check out this little bit of heaven, tucked away in Salado. This quaint little town was also the home to the woman who dressed First ladies, movie stars and more...
Here's my challenge...the first person to email me her name and two of her famous clients will receive one of Valerie Berinelli's Home Cooking, Cookbooks!
Stay tuned for another post on our Salado craft beer stop, Chupacabra. Then next week we take a short drive down the road to College Station, Texas, the home of my alma mater, Texas A&M as well as hometown for my Dad and nephew. Not to mention those Fightin' Texas Aggies! I can't wait till next year when we kick-off a new season of football with Jimbo Fisher as our new head coach. Welcome to Aggieland and Gig'em Jimbo!