Saturday, July 02, 2011

Texas Hill Country, what comes to mind?  Bluebonnets, lantana, lazy winding rivers and beautiful sunsets - those we knew.  Now, however, after our Riven Rock Ranch sojourn, memory banks for my husband and I are filled with so much more.  We truly weren’t prepared for what awaited us.  It’s a gorgeous place to be sure, with impeccably manicured grounds and beautifully designed interiors.  And choices of accommodations are so much fun from the Teacher’s Cottage to the Farmhouse and more!   For us, it was a perfect rest from our busy lives in a quiet pastoral setting.  One will notice - the pillows (so soft) and lovely appointments in the rooms; but, now, let’s talk about dining at the Ranch.  It’s almost indescribable. 

First, visualize this, being seated close to a lovely water feature with hummingbirds flitting throughout the flowers.  Food selection was difficult only because our choices were too delightful!  Everything from The Terrace Grill menu can be a taste bud experience.  It isn’t just that vegetables are organic and locally grown, and specialty burgers from ranch-raised beef, or that the chef is a culinary artist.  His is a special mastery whether from pastries to pizzas.  His glazes, desserts, seasonings and selection offerings are truly extraordinary.  He is masterful in all things food!  One’s morning might begin a sumptuous exotic sausage omelet, fruits, and fresh baked breads.  Skip the wonderful selection of salads, custom design pizza, or specials at lunch.  Why skip?  Because in the evening the stuffed quail with mixed grill is to die for (that’s just one of your entrée options.)  The roster of desserts made by the chef leaves one believing “so many desserts, so little time” but let’s just have perhaps a fresh peach crisp from locally grown fruit with ice cream on the side or maybe chocolate pecan pie—yum!   And since we were fortunate enough to stay to dine on Sunday evening, the experience was enhanced by strains of lovely guitar and song from the ranch’s own vocalist!  If one is looking for a beautiful place for restful sleep and incredible dining, expectations will be over reached for sure.  Thank you to everyone for our stay in this sanctuary away from the noisy throng.  Riven Rock Ranch has much to offer!

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