Fritz Town News

Are you ready for some football?

2010-01-07T07:38:00.000-08:00

If you are thinking of watching the Texas-Alabama game tonight, go to the Crossroads Saloon ( across the street from Hondo's on Main).

They have a full bar and 3 screens ( one is a projection screen and is huge) .

Good Eats at Max & Zelda's

2009-09-17T11:36:00.000-07:00

Hey, maybe the curse has been lifted from the building formerly known as Peggy Sue's on Highway 16, just past the high school. It's spent time as several restaurants in the last few years and none of them have stuck (because they stank), but the new Max and Zelda's seems promising. The food served is good stick to your ribs stuff - nothing too fancy, but there are two really noteworthy items to try: the rolls served with the meals is reason enough alone to visit the cafe - I contemplated asking for seconds). And they do an excellent job on their sides - the veggies are cooked to perfection, something one doesn't always find this side of the Pecos. They need to beef up their salad menu and improve their service (the staff is polite, but the wait is simply too long), and who knows, this place might last long enough for us to remember its name.

Tapas

2009-08-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

Cafe Real is a spanish style tapas bar/restaurant on West Main opposite the Texas Pawn shop.

The converted residence houses a open plan dining room with a small bar and is decorated in a contemporary modern style.

The menu consists of a number of tapas/small plates that are meant to be shared but I found the portions rather large with corresponding price tags( between $6- $10). The food, overall,was tasty and the service attentive.

http://www.caferealinc.com

Paintball

2009-08-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

Fredericksburg now has an extreme sport center. Hill Country Extreme Sports provides paintball, rock climbing and mixed martial art training all in one location.

Check them out

www.hillcountryextremesports.com

Restaurant news

2009-06-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

The Peach Pit BBQ is set to open on the corner of Milam and Main where Cuvee and then Rebecca's Table used to be. Hopefully third times a charm for them.

Proof Cocktail Bar has closed as has Marios Italian Restaurant (on Hwy 16)

At least it is never boring...

Fredericksburg Farmer's Market

2009-05-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

The Fredericksburg Farmer's Market will start season 2 on Thursday May 28.
Local produce will be on sale at the Marketplatz from 4pm -7pm.
Get there early because the good stuff goes fast.

THINK GLOBALLY & ACT NEIGHBORLY - buy local
www.fbgfarmersmarket.com

Winslows

2009-04-09T16:24:00.000-07:00

"Where the locals eat" is the sign on the window and I guess there were a few inside eating breakfast. The menu contained pictures of the Lunch items which looked pretty ordinary.
The breakfast taco was small but tasty. $2.50
Mrs Fritz's 2 egg plate was adequate.

Service was very attentive.

I don't think I will be back in a hurry though.

House .Wine

2009-03-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

House.Wine, the wine and cool furniture store on Main St has started its own "liquid stimulus" program.
By shopping close outs and deals,they are now offering great wine at HEB prices. The selection includes about 10 reds and 10 whites all between $8 and $20. You can drink it there or take home a bottle or case.

You will find the wine in the back lounge area.

327 East Main St
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
http://www.intohousewine.com/home.html

Rain, Rain, Rain

2009-03-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

We had 3.5 inches of the wet stuff on Wednesday and more today so it should be green next week.

Hilda's Tortilla Factory

2009-02-25T10:05:00.000-08:00

Hilda's Tortilla Factory has opened their new building.
Breakfast tacos still sell out fast.

149 Farm Market 2093 (Tivydale road), just off Highway 16.

Eat for Education

2009-02-17T13:12:00.001-08:00

This Thursday night, February 19th, you can avoid cooking dinner AND support your community! All you have to do is go to Mr. Gatti's between 5:00 and 8:00 PM and tell them you're eating for FMS and they'll donate 15% of the bill to the PTO. Or you can just order a pizza to go -- that counts too (just be sure to mention the FMS PTO).

The PTO is an important organization - its sole purpose is to support the students and teachers. They sponsor educational programs, donate supplies, provide teacher appreciation and more. It's a volunteer organization, which means they are always short of money and that a few dedicated people do a large portion of the work! So here's an easy way to show your support for the local school and have a dinner out to boot!

(You might also consider purchasing one of the cool red and black tie-dyed t-shirts the FMS PTO designed. For more information contact Julie Voorhees at voorheesfamily@mac.com)

Fredericksburg Theater Company

2009-02-09T10:07:00.001-08:00

A new production is about to start.

I Do! I Do! is a charming musical to celebrate the Valentine's Day season of romance. The story traces the road of romance for one couple - Agnes and Michael - from their wedding to the day they leave the home they have shared for 50 years. This intimate musical offers just the right song for every high (and low) point in a marriage: wedding night jitters, raising a family, mid life crises, joys, sorrows, quarrels, separation, reconciliation and growing old together. You don't want to miss this musical event written with love in every tune!

Tony Nominated I Do! I Do! is the nostalgic work by Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones, the authors of "The Fanstasticks" and "110 In the Shade."

When:
* February 13 - March 1, 2009
* Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
* Sundays at 2:00 p.m.

Location:
The Steve W. Shepherd Theater
1668 Hwy 87 S
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

from FBG Theater Co

Fredericksburg is in the Top 3

2009-01-11T11:30:00.000-08:00

From Southern Living magazines readers poll , Fredericksburg, Texas is voted number 3 best small town in the USA.

Read the full article
Southern Living

Books

2009-01-07T12:11:00.000-08:00

Need a book to complete your weekend getaway?
Get all the latest bestsellers or browse the selection of secondhand books at Berkman Books on East Main. There is complimentary coffee while you look through the 6 rooms and 2 friendly cats to keep you company too.
They will custom order if they don't have what you want in stock and are open to buying books if you want to recycle your old ones.

416 E Main St
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
(830) 997-1535

Restaurant news

2008-12-31T13:35:00.000-08:00

Two restaurant changes to note.
Rebecca's Table, the upscale restaurant co-owned by Rebecca Rather of Rathersweet bakery has closed.

Joe's Italian grill on Hwy 16 is being relaunched as "Mario's Tex-Mex Grill".

Happy New Year!

New Years Eve Walk

2008-12-30T12:40:00.000-08:00

Want a novel way to welcome the new year? Kick start your waist loss resolution by walking in the new year.

At 11 p.m., the Texas Volkssport Association will host a wine-and-cheese social hour before the traditional Midnight Walk.

This is a 10-kilometer guided walk (a 5-kilometer walk is available). Everyone will leave promptly at midnight. No one will be allowed to leave after 12:30 a.m., and all participants must be back no later than 3:30 a.m.

This walk’s genesis goes back to the mid-1980s when a few volkssporters started this tradition as a way to “walk in the New Year.” It has continued and grown since then. People come from around the country to participate in this special event.

Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are to be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in the building. Disclaimers for the walk event must be signed. Restrooms will be available at the start/finish location.

The midnight walking trail, which covers city streets, is suitable for strollers, but because of night visibility concerns, it is unsuitable for wheelchairs. Participants must carry flashlights.

The events will begin from St. Joseph’s Hall in the 200 block of West San Antonio Street.

More on Proof

2008-12-22T07:51:00.000-08:00

Hey Schatze -

I was at Proof last week, too -sorry I missed you! But I agree with you - the atmosphere is nice (love the couches and oversized ottomans/coffeetables.) I had their Malbec wine and it was quite good. Happy hour is from 3 to 6, by the way, and the bartender was really friendly and nice (very different from when it was Primeaux). They have live blues music there on Wednesday nights, too. I also had the chance to check out West End Pizza twice last week! I had the spaghettii the first time and it was pretty decent. I love the their pizza - we built our own veggie and it was really delicious but a little pricey - $25 for a large pizza pushes the limits a bit. But it has a nice familly feel and it was busy, so it looks like it might be a hit. We actually need more family friendly restaurants in town, so it's a good addition.

Proof Lounge

2008-12-19T09:51:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a place for conversation and drinks, Proof is a nice choice. I love the atmosphere and seating areas. Proof offers a variety of beer, wine, and mixed drinks.

Texas Jacks

2008-12-18T07:16:00.000-08:00

So your wife etc wants to come and shop in Fredericksburg but what are you going to do?
Between beers stop in at Texas Jacks.

This old time general dealer store is a great place to view (and buy) old wild west items. They stock all you need in action shooting apparel including the requisite red flannel long johns complete with back flap. There are six shooters for sale too (made by Cimarron Arms also based in Fredericksburg).
All in all it is a good place to waste a couple of minutes.

http://www.texasjacks.com

Fun Family Event

2008-12-17T18:12:00.000-08:00

The annual tree lighting at the LBJ State Park will be this weekend on Sunday at 6 pm. A great family tradition, the Tree Lighting, will be held at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site Visitor Center. The Johnson Family will welcome visitors to the tree lighting. Good walking shoes and a flash light are recommended by park rangers. The event is fun for kids of all ages.

After the tree lighting, visitors will be treated to refreshments, caroling and a visit from Santa Claus.

You can get to the LBJ State Park on Highway 290 about 15 miles outside of Fredericksburg.

Gun Show

2008-12-12T09:19:00.000-08:00

The Texas Gun and Blade show is at the Fairgrounds on hwy 16 over the weekend of December 20 -21. Stock up on those semi auto rifles while you still can.

Guess Who's on His Way!

2008-12-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

Yikes - it's hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner! Don't forget that Santa Claus comes to town tomorrow night in a parade of lights that's more fun than a barrel of leiderhosen! It starts at dark thirty, but it's best to park your truck (if you have one) on Main Street in the first open spot you see (it may take a while), and leave it there till the parade. (You can shop while you wait for the lights to turn on or better yet visit a biergarten). Bring a blanket and some hot chocolate, it's always cold for this event. Afterward you can go to Weinachten for more bier, hot chocolate and fun. Don't miss the dancing and performances put on by the kids at Miss Rhonda's school of dance - it's a tap and ballet o-rama! Sometimes we get lucky and the mayor and some of his buddies also put on a holiday musicale, which is always top-notch, don't know if that's happening this year...
Check out the cool holiday goodies you can send to someone you love (or you can treat yourself) from http://www.dancingdeer.com/. Click on philanthropy on the home page and it will lead you to the Sweet Home Project, which donates 35% of its proceeds to help families move out of poverty, permanently. We got some at the office and they are yummy dee. It's a great to know that while you're stuffing your face with holiday goodies, you're also helping someone else out. And let's face it, we're all going to eat the goodies anyway, 'tis the season and all. (Isn't it great that we have the opportunity to make New Year's resolutions right after the holidays - a coincidence? I think not.)

Smart Raise is Great Way to Give

2008-12-02T11:12:00.000-08:00

Fundraiser for Middle School

Fredericksburg Middle School (FMS) has a great internet fundraiser. It's called Smart Raise. All you have to do is go online to www.smartraise.com/FMSPTO, sign up and shop. A portion of what you spend goes to the Middle School PTO. There are some great stores there such as Target, Kohl's, Office Depot and more - there are more than 400 so its best to go online and look. Anyone who wants to can participate, so if you ( like me) are an online shopper, you can feel like you are doing some good for the community and get your shopping done while in your pajamas. It runs all year, too, so you don't have to do it just for the holidays!

Silver Creek

2008-12-02T08:37:00.000-08:00

I used to go here often (there is Spaten beer on tap) but the service became terrible, so I boycotted them for about 8 months.
On sunny days I like to drink beer outside so I decided to retry the Silver Creek Beer Garden. Service was much improved, the beer was still cold and they had a new burger (the Josh Dodds), a burger with swiss and american cheese and topped with a fried egg on texas toast($10). Wunderbar!!

The place gets busy on the weekend and the kitchen is small so food can be delayed but if you like to sit and listen to live music, give them a try.

Credit cards accepted
310 E. Main Street, Fredericksburg TX
Their Website

Got Gas?

2008-11-25T10:57:00.000-08:00

With the prices of gas falling fast, where in town do you get the best gas prices? The lowest gas prices in town are usually at the Corner Store on E Highway and Main. They always have the lowest prices in town, followed by the HEB Gas Station on Adams/Highway 16. HEB will even let you write a check for your gas, as long as it's local. Want to keep up on the lowest gas prices in town, visit: http://www.gasbuddy.com/ and enter the 78624 zip code. It will give you a running list of prices around town.

Now all we need in town is a good car wash, where you can have your car washed and vaccuumed for you.

West End Pizza

2008-11-25T09:39:00.000-08:00

A new pizza joint just opened this week on Main street in the space previously occupied by "Hannah's on Main" and before that "Cottage Cafe". West End Pizza Co offers many choices of pizza as well as pasta and salads. The main pizza menu comes in two sizes, 14 or 16 inch and cost between $16 and $20.
The atmosphere is great and the staff is very friendly. Go around back and try a game of air hockey or pinball, it's sure to be lots of fun.
Credit Cards are accepted but no liquor license yet.

West End Pizzeria
232 W. Main Street
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
www.westendpizzacompany.com

Fangs

2008-11-24T09:33:00.000-08:00

My dentist is Thomas Schmidt. He is generally on time which is a pleasant change for a medical professional and has reassuring chairside manner.
Teeth cleaning is an overall relaxing experience but I wish the hygienist would ask "talking or non talking " before starting as I find conversation with a pick in my mouth uncomfortable.

Not sure on what insurance he takes.

205 W Windcrest St # 210
Fredericksburg, TX 78624

(830) 997-7232‎

Peach Pit BBQ

2008-11-24T09:13:00.000-08:00

When you say Texas most people will think cowboys and steers. But another thing Texas is famous for is the Barbecue. And around these parts nothing brings a smile like a heaping plate of BBQ with all the trimmings. If you are in the mood but not sure where to go, try Peach Pit BBQ on highway 16 headed out of town. For around $7 - $9 dollars a plate you can enjoy the meat of your choice with one or two sides, bread, and a drink. The barbecue sauce is served hot and has a tangy sweet taste to it. I caution you to go early! They serve up plates until they run out and close until the next day. Parking can also be a bit tight. They also provide catering service and meats by the pound if you are looking to bring something home to the family.
So next time your headed south of town stop by Peach Pit and give them a try but bring cash or checks as they don't accept credit/debit cards.

Opa's Smoked Meats

2008-11-21T13:04:00.000-08:00

Try out the great sausages at Opa's, just a couple of blocks south of Main Street, on Washington. Great Christmas gift items, which they can package, as well. The real secret is the smoked beef filet jerkey. Try it, thinly sliced with smoked cheese on a cracker, and you will be hooked. It's expensive per pound (something like fourteen or sixteen bucks), but a small amount goes a long way. This company has been in FBG. for over fifty years. So give em a try.

Breakfast at Old German Bakery

2008-11-21T12:55:00.000-08:00

Breakfast at The Old German Bakery is definitely the place to go. omlettes, pancakes and homemade German sausage or bacon...both served with fresh baked biscuits, and plenty of coffee. Or you can can the migas (a big plate full of eggs and tortillas with green sauce) or one of their specials like Eggs Benedict. Real German pastries, great breakfast for six to seven dollars per person, and very popular on the weekends or during special events. Get there before 8:30AM and you will get right in. Oh, and they don't take credit cards. But who cares for good food at good prices

Beer

2008-11-21T09:12:00.000-08:00

I like beer.
Rick and Alton make it at the Fredericksburg Brewery on Main Street. I recommend you stop by and sample some while you wait for your wife etc to stop shopping. My favorite is the Pale Ale .
Sit at the bar, eat some bottlecaps (fried jalapenos) and before you know it she will be back. Or you can take your beer to go (it is legal on Main Street).
Buy the "make beer not war" apparel at Alton's site www.beerandpeace.com

Bejas

2008-11-20T13:07:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for a great place to have lunch or dinner outdoors Bejas has a wonderful patio. This is a nice place to visit with friends or family and just relax and enjoy any of their tasty choices on their menu. The only complaint I have is the servers do not seem very happy, maybe they should try a margarita from the menu. (which by the way are also very good)

A Scenic Drive on Highway 16

2008-11-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

Highlights of the Texas Hill Country include the dramatic scenery on Highway 16 between Fredericksburg and Kerrville. Aromatic scents of fall and breathtaking views of of the countryside are what this road has to offer. Overall the 22 miles offer complete bliss to anyone out for a Sunday drive (even if it is Tuesday).
But don't be surprised if you're mowed off the road by big Texas 4x4 or soccer mom in her SUV. If you're not doing at least the speed limit ( 70 mph ) or usually over that, you will be angrily tailgated by those that are in a hurry. Since this is a one lane highway, common courtesy would tell you that people should follow behind until the next passing lane arrives. Don't expect the locals to follow suit, if you are enjoying a leisurely drive at 50 mph, do yourself a favor and move over to the shoulder. This allows them to pass and you to keep going on your way without honking, name-calling, hand gestures, and the like.
Another passing problem this time of year is DEER. Those cute, cuddly creatures you've seen in the movies are nothing but common pests along this highway. Be wary of them darting out in front of you while doing high speeds because it may not be just one. Damaged cars and trucks are a common occurrence that cost time and money. At dusk and after dark is when it's hardest to spot these animals so keep an eye out for them.
All in all this road offers more than transportation. With it's gorgeous scenery and wild life abundance it's no wonder people call this highway home. To anyone passing through, be sure to take this 22 mile stretch, just make sure you do it from the shoulder and watch out for Dead Man's Curve!

Nothing like turkey for breakfast!

2008-11-20T10:10:00.000-08:00

Today was the annual Thanksgiving lunch at Fredericksburg Elementary School. Hundreds of parents joined their children for the annual meal of turkey, dressing and all the fixings while trying to balance themselves on the small round stools at the tables. With all of the children and their guests passing through the cafetria lines, lunch starts early. Actually right around breakfast. MMMMMmmmm, turkey for breakfast! And for those of us lucky enough to have more that one child at the school, we get turkey for breakfast and a little later again for lunch.

The school does a great job of making the day special with decorations made by the children. Parents and Grandparents come from miles away to join their kids for lunch on this special day. If you have a child who will be in the elementary school-start marking your calendar now. If you miss it, your disappointed child will not let you forget!

Speed Traps

2008-11-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

The area on Llano from Austin to College is definitely a speed trap - and the limit during school pick-up and drop-off times is a mere 20mph. I can definitely run faster than that (but admittedly only for a moment). Slow down just past Lady Bird Johnson Park on Highway 16, the limit there is 55 for a few miles, and you think it should be much higher. I almost always see a trooper there, so keep it slow.

Traffic Tickets

2008-11-20T06:50:00.000-08:00

My tips for the best place to get a speeding ticket.

Milam between Highway 16 and Main Street. The limit is 30 (I think i can walk faster) and there is plenty of downhill to build up speed.

Just past the Post Office on Highway 87. The limit stays at 55 for about 3 miles but because it not very developed it seems it should be 70. State troopers love to get people coming in and out of town.

Heidi and Hedwig both recommend the school zone around the elementary school as another great place to get a ticket.

Another Great Place to Eat-Kelly's Cafe

2008-11-19T16:11:00.000-08:00

We like to eat at Kelly's Cafe on Main Street. The menu is diverse and everything is very good. Our regular favorites are the New Mexico Blue Corn Enchiladas and the Spiral Pasta Salad. The deserts are a sweet treat so save room!

Kelly's also offers their food to go, so find your favorite item and call and get it to go.

The only downside is the parking. Park on Main Street for the easiest access.

Great Eats at Altdorf

2008-11-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

Another great place to eat is Altdorf. The outside biergarten atmosphere is great, and you should really try their Sangria - the best I've ever had this side of the Atlantic - I understand its based on a recipe the owner got from his favorite hangout in Spain. Regular favorites of mine include the Taco salad and the Ruben, but I've never had a bad dish there and I admit, I love their homemade french fries. I also love the apple struesel when they have it - it's flaky delicious, especially a la mode. My only complaint is that the chairs outside are not super duper comfortable, nor is the gravel underfoot.

Welcome to the Fredericksburg, Texas insider blog.

2008-11-19T10:04:00.000-08:00

My favorite breakfast spot at the moment is Mahaleys.
Located at Main and 87, their bacon or sausage breakfast burritos are delicious. (I think they are better than Hildas and you don't have to wait as long...Plus they don't run out). Ask for the "fire in the hole" hot sauce if you dare. Price $2.75

If you have some local knowledge you would like to share email me fritz@fritz-town.com.