I recently travelled to Austin, Texas and decided to stop in Temple, TX to do a bit of genealogy research. I made reservations at Stone Creek Settlement in Salado, TX, so I could spend the day in Temple and then journey on to Austin the following day.
My first stop was lunch. I had already browsed the Temple, TX Chamber of Commerce list, and since I like local fair better than chain restaurants, I chose Megg's Cafe as the web site boasted "local farms" when possible. It turned out to be an excellent choice although it took me some time to find it, as it is tucked behind several hotels and businesses on an Interstate that is undergoing major construction.
The Hamilton Bakery is located in the front section of the cafe, and as advertised, on a chalk board was a list of area farms used for the menu items. The selections change seasonally as the farm produce changes. I was seated quickly, and it didn't appear to be too busy. I ordered my food, and before I was served, the place was packed. Glad I arrived a bit before noon!
I was in a burger mood (which I rarely eat), so I ordered the country burger. Included on the burger was a fried farm egg, pimento cheese, and green tomato chow chow. I am not a fan of eggs on my food, but in honor of my son who speaks highly of that combination, I decided that was it.
Megg's Cafe This burger was magnificent. I did sample the bun, but I am a carb watcher and thought I might want a bakery item for desert so I did remove the bread. The egg mellowed the beef while the cheese and chow chow gave it a bit of a bite. Oh my!!!! I will try this at home. The homemade golden potato chips were thin, lightly salted and very crunchy-just as I like them. Needless to say, I was stuffed and did not sample the bakery goods. I highly recommend Megg's Cafe!!!!!
My next stop, was
The Czech Heritage Museum. I wanted to explore their archival records for the early Texas Czech settlers. I had browsed the boat records years ago, and knew someday I would return. I was greeted by a very friendly Kenneth Lange who showed me the different exhibits. I learned a great deal from him and I felt a kinship immediately. Next, Julia Frazier helped me with the records, but because she was so interesting and friendly, I failed to get much done. The museum typically closed at 4 pm, but a nasty thunderstorm blew in, so they allowed me to stay with them until it had passed. Don Mears, the curator, was there as well during the storm, so we all listened to the weather reports. They were quite concerned about my safety. My next stop was to be the Seaton, TX cemetery, but the storm decided that it would linger, so I did not make it.
I was invited to volunteer at the museum which I believe I will do in May or June to help archive records. If you have several hours to spare on your way to or from Austin, stop by and visit these friendly folks.
I lodged at the Stone Creek Settlement. It is an interesting bed and breakfast as it is a group of cabins nestled into trees and native Texas plants. The owners have succeeded in giving the settlement a charming and inviting look. I stayed in a room above the office in the main house, but I would like to reserve one of the cabins next time.
That evening I dined at The Range at the Barton House. I ordered the scallop dish which was a risk for me. Scallops are not my favorite seafood unless they are prepared exceptionally well. They were the most succulent and well prepared scallops I think I have ever eaten. The smooth browned butter flavor of the scallops was accented with the rich creamy moist texture. Accompanying the scallops was a fresh garden saute mix of squash and tomatoes served over a bed of grits. Perfection. I did not think I was hungry when I sat down in The Range because of that fabulous burger at Megg's, but I ate every last scallop. Whew, I needed to walk.
Lucky, the storms were long gone, and the sun was now shining but setting in the bright blue Texas sky. Upon returning to the settlement, I donned walking shoes and explored the trails. I grew sufficiently tired at the end of my walk and settled in for the night. I awoke to a splendid selection of breads, fruit and quiche for breakfast. My appetite had not returned yet from the previous day, so I sampled a piece of bread, took one bite of the quiche and wrapped up the fruit for the car. I loaded up and was on my way to Austin.
I must say that my quick little trip was most enjoyable and I made new friends along the way.
Enjoy!
Lana
