Frank, my boss at Texas Air Doctors, came to me with the suggestion of writing a blog because I am the Director of Social Media. The idea interested me, but I had no idea what to write about: I’m a single independent woman. I’m not much of a cook nor a do it yourselfer.
I was really stumped as to subject matter for a blog.
Then, on a breezy November day, Frank suggested that I get out of the office. “Take a walk,” he said. “Get some inspiration,” he said. “Go to Grapevine,” he said.
Well, it was a slow day at the office, and if the boss says go, who am I to argue? So off I went, to downtown Grapevine, with my trusty sidekick and photographer, Gary, to report the sights of Grapevine.
Upon our arrival, it was obvious they were getting ready for Christmas and some of the stores were already fully decorated. Did you know Grapevine is the Christmas Capital of Texas (http://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/christmas-capital-of-texas) and the that they have a Christmas Store (http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM7CYY_Merrys_Christmas_Clowns_Grapevine_Texas) dedicated to lifting your spirit and decorating your home?
Although I had never walked the length of Grapevine Main Street, certainly not from one end to the other, today I did.
From the north end at the historical Palace Theater, where they not only show old movies like Star Wars, or Cat Ballou for $5 a head, but also have live music presentations. Country to classic music is presented on their stage. Go tohttp://www.grapevinetexasusa.com/palace-theatre/movies/ to see what’s happening there this week.
To the south end where Willhoite’s Restaurant (http://www.willhoites.com/) hosts many of the local bikers in the area who meet up and discuss whatever bikers discuss, over beers and burgers. There are so many beautiful motorcycles parked up front it will tweak the desires of every Harley Davidson enthusiast.
I tasted some Olive oils at The Olive Oil Store (http://grapevineoliveoilcompany.com/). Where they sell flavored Olive Oils and an assortment of Balsamic vinegar that is as old as 50-years. It is much, much different from what you get in the grocery store. They have Christmas sets that would be the perfect Christmas gift for your amateur chef.
I crossed the street from Willhoite’s Restaurant, to Tolbert’s Restaurant (http://www.tolbertsrestaurant.com/index.htm) . A bit of history here – Frank X. Tolbert was a journalist, historian and chili enthusiast who wrote for the Dallas Morning News. He is directly responsible for the success of the Internationally famous “Terlingua Chilli Cookoff” You can even get a Cup, Bowl or Super Bowl of his Original Texas Red, chili at this restaurant, which is run by his daughter Kathleen and her husband.
There are a multitude of antique and souvenir shops along both sides of the street full of “Can’t Live Without” or “To Die For” trinkets. You can easily lose a day in your pursuit of happiness here.
At the north end of main, on the East side sits Napoli’s Italian Restaurant ( http://www.napolisgrapevine.com/ ). A go to restaurant for those craving an Italian fix. The food is good, according to my boss and his boss Becky, but the confectionary next door is even better. Italian ice cream and other desserts, such as Tiramisu Cake, Italian Cream Cake or Cannoli, this is the place to go to satisfy your Italian sweet tooth.
My favorite part of Main Street though was the Torian Log Cabin. It was built in 1845 down the road from Grapevine in the Lonesome Dove community. It had deteriorated but the owner contributed it to Grapevine and it was reconstructed on this little square of land in the heart of Grapevine. You can look in the windows and see how our early settlers lived. I’m glad for modern air conditioning and soft furniture.
They also have an old time Gazebo. It decorated beautifully for Christmas, with the lights, the elves and a Mistletoe booth. The kids love to run up and over the stage of the Gazebo.
Frank was right, this little afternoon venture helped me determine what I wanted to write about – the Metroplex! I love the Metroplex. There is always so much to do, to experience, and (wait for it) to EAT!! One just doesn’t know about some of the places because they are off the beaten path or you’re not sure what they are or where they are.
Follow my blog, This is Your Town, You Can Taste It! for inspiration about where to go or what to see at events around town. I’ll tell you about them so you can experience them too!
P.S. There was a 1967 Red Corvette Convertible I got the pleasure of sitting in, it was amazing! The car was beautiful, and the color was perfect. I think I know what my next car should be.
Deandra
Director of Social Media
