We need to decide where to go for our SEASON 16 FINALE. But we need your help. It’s a 16-town playoff. You can vote once. And each Monday, we’ll announce the winners that continue to the next round. Who will win? I don’t know! You do!
The FINAL ROUND is OPEN FOR VOTING!
We need to decide where to go for our SEASON 15 FINALE. But we need your help. It’s a 16-town playoff. You can vote once per day. And each Friday, we’ll announce the winners that continue to the next round. Who will win? I don’t know! You do!
THE FINALS ARE HERE – Paris vs Galveston!
VOTE AT THIS LINK – https://forms.gle/kvpwxHWB8urjF8LS8
We need to decide where to go for our SEASON 14 FINALE. But we need your help. It’s a 16-town playoff. You can vote once per day. And each Friday, we’ll announce the winners that continue to the next round. Who will win? I don’t know! You do!
VOTE AT THIS LINK – https://forms.gle/ZDX5b5kvnx2s7GJJ7
As Halloween gets closer, the ghosts come out to play each night. So to make sure you get your fill of Texas-sized thrills, visit these 13 spots in each part of the state where you’re sure to see something that’ll make the hair stand up on the back of your neck and send chills down your spine. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you’re in for a screaming good time!
Deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas, this creepy road off FM 787, once called Bragg Road, is now officially “Ghost Road” due to its mysterious happenings. Travel down it in the dead of night and turn off your headlights to spot the eerie glowing ball of light that appears and disappears down the road. Many have traveled this road, but no one can find an explanation for the lights. The most popular legend about the Saratoga Lights holds that a man was decapitated by a train when the Santa Fe line ran through the road in the 1900s, and now searches for his head with a lantern through the night.
Though Athens is full of adventure, it also has a darker side that’ll make you go bananas… Legend has it that a circus train was traveling through town when it violently crashed under Thunder Bridge (known to the locals as Monkey Bridge). The surviving monkeys escaped into the forest, but the ones who died in the accident supposedly still haunt the already-creepy overgrown area on West College Street. The legend goes on to say that the escaped monkeys were gathered up by Medford Fuller and kept in giant cages at Fuller Park, where he did unspeakable things and performed creepy rituals. The overgrown park is still there, where you can see the crumbling stone walls and — if you’re brave enough to explore the dark woods — even Mr. Fuller’s grave and the iron monkey cages.
Instead of Casper the friendly ghost, aboard the Lexington you might just find Charlie the friendly tour guide! Many folks have described meeting a very kind and handsome blue-eyed young man, dressed in uniform who happily gives tours of the lower decks. It’s not until these folks are informed that the Lexington doesn’t have tour guides that they are a little spooked. Charlie was an engine room operator who died in 1943 when a Japanese torpedo hit the ship, but even so, I hear his tours are “out of this world!”
One icy morning in Lubbock, a man stood waiting for the bus to arrive on Memphis Street. When the bus finally came, it slipped on the ice and killed him. People now say that when you drive north on Memphis Avenue in the dark of night, you can still see the figure of a man leaning against the light pole waiting for the bus at the corner of 66th St. and Memphis Ave. When you get closer, he disappears.
The Marfa Lights are less creepy and more mystifying. Each night around sunset, out in the distance on the horizon of the Chinati Mountains, these unexplained lights show up and disappear randomly. Like some sort of desert disco, they change colors, move around and flash on and off. They’ve been spotted since the 1880s, and explanations range from UFO’s to ghosts of Conquistadors in search of gold.
One rainy morning, a school bus full of children stalled as it was crossing the tracks. A train came speeding down the track and the bus was unable to move out of the way, causing a terrible crash and killing 10 children. Now, legend holds that the ghosts of those children push stalled cars out of the way to safety. Park about 50 ft. before these tracks on Shane Road, put the car in neutral and turn the engine off. Without touching the gas, your car will travel uphill over the tracks. If you cover the back bumper with baby powder before crossing the tracks, you’ll supposedly find baby fingerprints on the bumper afterwards.
Just outside of Abilene, you’ll find yet another unexplainable phenomenon of ghostly lights. On a clear night, drive east on US 180 until you reach a cemetery. Take a right at the country road near the cemetery and drive until you reach a crossroad. Turn back around and face the way you came. Turn off the engine and flash your headlights three times and a strange glowing light will appear in the distance where there was none before. Legend has it that the light belongs to the spirit of a woman searching for her lost children.
While many know Jefferson as the “B&B Capital of Texas,” it is also known as the “Most Haunted Small Town in Texas.” If you’re in town and searching for monsters, then look no further than The Grove. Built in 1861, it is now the most haunted home in Jefferson. Among many disturbances like moving furniture and strange noises, many who visit have reported seeing a Lady in White walking around the front porch and disappearing into the wall of the house.
At this restaurant in Waxahachie, your delicious fried catfish comes served with a side of ghostly encounters (and that’s not including the friendly ghost decor if you visit in October…) Rumors go that this house built in 1895 is haunted by past residents including a young man who likes to flirt with the ladies by brushing their shoulders or knees, and a woman named “Caroline” who can often be seen staring out the front window. Things happen so often that a sign at the front says “If you have a ghostly experience, please tell us.”
If you’re really looking for a scream, sleep inside the old priests’ and officers’ quarters of Presido La Bahia, the Spanish fort where over 300 men were massacred within and surrounding the fort’s walls. At night, when the fort is empty, you can hear infants screaming and you might just run into a ghostly friar chanting Latin prayers as he paces the Chapel. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a woman dressed in white wandering around the fort.
We tried staying a night in the fort, and you can watch us scream like little girls here.
For a good dose of historical spook, visit the house-turned-museum of Susanna Dickinson, the only white female survivor of the Alamo. While on the grounds, folks have seen the curtains of the front windows part at the middle and even the spirit of Mrs. Dickinson, herself, wandering around the property.
With ancient wells underneath, stories of multiple bridal ghosts wandering through the hotel, and hallways that look like they’ve come straight out of The Shining, this 125 year-old hotel has plenty to keep you spooked. To truly experience a scare, stay in Rooms 525 or 429, which are rumored to be the most haunted spots in the hotel. People have even had encounters with Colonel Driskill, himself, who died in 1890 and now enjoys smoking cigars and watching traffic from “his room.”
As if visiting this dim, candle-lit tavern with towering mounds of wax everywhere weren’t creepy enough, you might just be served your drink by a ghostly figure. The bar, which was built in 1847, is known as Houston’s oldest building and tends to be haunted by old bartender, Carl Truscott, who died in the 1990. Folks often hear an eerie voice shout out “Last Call” at strange times, or see figures appearing in the front windows late at night. More humorously, many folks have also complained of having to wait forever for a bathroom that ends up being empty or someone brushing up against them in the tiny one room stalls.
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Seguin, 30-miles east of San Antonio and home of the “World’s Largest Pecan,” has a lot going for it – good bones as they might say – and one by one the old buildings of downtown are filling up with really exciting businesses. This explosive growth has even spilled over into some of the nearby neighborhoods. One can’t-miss business that just north of downtown on Austin St. sits inside of a big, historic PINK house.
And if you’re wondering why anyone would trip to the backyard of a big pink house in the middle of a residential neighborhood – well that’s because it’s backyard is the home of one of the best, and most creative taco restaurants in Texas – Guero’s Backyard.
It’s run by the “guero” himself Craig Ognoskie. For over a decade Craig and his wife Denise ran a fine dining restaurant out of this house but when life changes forced them to reevaluate everything, they set a new course for their future. Craig ventured to the famed CIA culinary school in San Antonio. He ditched the white tablecloths and leg of lamb in favor of picnic tables and fusion street tacos.
One look at the menu and you’ll realize that this ain’t exactly your normal backyard cooking. Thai chicken empanadas. Central American pork pupusas. Then you jump over to Asian cuisine. And the Deep South with a pulled pork sandwich. Then ahi tuna mixed with gorgonzola cheese and grapefruit – the “Marissa” which was an experiment, but turned into their best seller.
“I did it for shock value. It’s our number one seller.” says Craig.
Amongst the picnic tables in the backyard, Craig grows as much fresh produce as he can, including collard greens, squash, swiss chard, and lots of herbs. Craig has two green thumbs and eight other fingers that work magic in the kitchen. It’s a culinary roller coaster courtesy of Craig’s culinary chops
“I like cooking things that I’ve never cooked before. I’ll change the menu. I’ll come up with a menu item and I’d never tried it until the first person orders it,” says Craig. Talk about trusting your instincts.
When it came time to order, I wanted to try just about everything. I started with the reuben egg rolls as an appetizer mixing pastrami and sauerkraut inside a crispy fried roll. The beef fajita taco was a delicious classic. The soul food taco had braised shredded short ribs on top of sweet potato puree and sauteed collards. Insanely good.
Then it was time for the “Marissa.” It was excellent seared tuna atop a seaweed salad and then topped with a gorgonzola spread and grapefruit. The mix between the tangy cheese and citrus sourness was incredible. I thought I had tasted every taco that was available to the human palette, but this taco proved me wrong. This is the beauty of fusion cooking. You take different things from different cultures and you put them on a tortilla. It’s magic.
Photos by Todd White Photography
Ever wanted to work for the coolest/awesome-est/strangest travel show in Texas? Then listen up!!
We are currently looking for a part-time Retail Sales Clerk for The Daytripper World Headquarters to help us hold down the fort while we’re out on the road.
***MUST live near Georgetown, TX and MUST be available to work 10-20 hours per week (including days, evenings & weekends). Please only apply if you are completely available to work any of these times.
To apply for this position, please read all the instructions below and fill out the application.
Howdy folks! Here’s where you can find all the products we’ve showcased on our social media during #GOTEXANThursday. Each of one is GO TEXAN Certified, which means they’re a real-deal Texas-made product by an authentic Texas brand and often at a small family business. And you know we love supporting all of our Texas makers! So scroll through and check them out, because your new favorite product might just be a click away! Learn more about the GO TEXAN program HERE.
Eating 
is easy. Making from bean-to-bar is HARD! And Maribea Chocolate in Odessa, Texas is making some of the tastiest chocolate in all of Texas. They start with raw cacao beans, roast them, crack out the nibs, and then add cacao butter and sugar. There are only a small handful of companies in Texas doing this because it’s so hard. A number of their bars are “single origin” meaning you can trace the beans to a certain region of the globe 
. Other bars have delicately added flavors like bourbon 
and chili spice 
. Too many folks say they don’t like “dark chocolate.” But that just means they’re eating the wrong dark chocolate. 
Three words – Bourbon Pecan Brownies. And a few more – Salted Bourbon Caramel. Let me introduce y’all to Nana’s Cookies & More – Cottage Bakery out of Georgetown. This amazing cottage bakery also makes delicious cookies like bourbon chocolate chunk, focaccia bread, and more!!! On top of that, they’re gluten-free. I know, gluten-free treats are usually bad excuses for real treats, but not these. These are delicious. You can find Nana’s at the Wolf Ranch Farmers Market in Georgetown on Saturdays, or you can order off her Facebook page.
Ashly Martin is raising Spanish Iberico pigs in the Texas Hill Country and turning out the best cured meats you’ve ever tasted! These free-range pigs are feasting on cereal grains, grasses, and herbs, prickly pear cactus, mesquite beans and acorns, which means when you eat Texas Iberico, you’re feasting on the best charcuterie Texas has to offer!
Habanero Pralines are spicy 🌶🌶🌶, but man are they good. Lammes Candies Since 1885 in Austin has been satisfying Texans’ Sweet tooth since 1885. Their Chewie Pecan Praline recipe is over 130 years old. It’s a Texas Classic. But also can’t forget about the Longhorns 🤘. They’ve got four stores in the Austin area, but also ship nationwide. Every Texan should be eating Lammes.
Today on the Texan Table, I am visiting the Texas Farmers Market in the Mueller neighborhood in Austin. Over 100 farmers, makers, and more–in fact, somehow I managed to find Wagyu steak and amazing bbq.
Marshmallows are already amazing, but Murphy’s Mellows made in Elgin, Texas have taken it to the next level. Make your own S’mores, or buy them in a jar!
Today, on the Texan Table, we bring a taste of Italy to the Lone Star State. MIANONNA Italian (meaning my Grandmother) is a traditional Italian sausage company that began when Giovanna Milano brought her family recipe to Weslaco, Texas from Minturno Italy following World War II. After her passing in 2017, Giovanna’s Son, Emil Milano, decided to package and sell her famous sausage recipe to continue her legacy. I whipped up some Sausage Toast using the spicy one and even though it’s Italian Sausage, it carries a Texas kick. Hunt this down at H-E-B or your local grocery store. Trust me.
Have you ever had a Wagyu steak so pretty you were scared to cook it? How about a Wagyu tri-tip?! Well, I just got 3 AMAZING A5 Wagyu steaks from BRK Meats. Watch to see if I mess this all up! 😬 BRK Meats is an amazing meat processor out of Carthage, TX. They work with 2 East Texas ranches to produce some of the highest quality Wagyu available. You can place an order on their website or give them a call.
It’s the all-natural feeling of nature … in the form of soap. 
Let me introduce y’all to Susan’s Soaps & More made in Scurry, Texas (that’s southeast of Dallas. I had to Google it too). After battling skin issues, Susan created a line of products for people who care about what they put on their skin. Nothing synthetic. No animal fats or testing. And complete transparency. She makes body oil, herbal shampoo, and even all-natural insect repellant. I’ve started traveling with mine.
These days, we’re firing up the grill and eating outside as often as possible. Just got to try these delicious seasonings from Cynfully Soul Good out of Dallas, TX. They’re all natural and low in sodium for anyone with dietary restrictions. So good. The Smokey Chili one was my favorite because it packs a bit of sting. Hunt them down at Farmer’s Markets around DFW or order online.
We try three different hard seltzers made right in the Lone Star State.
Karbach Brewing – Ranch Water Hard Seltzer from Houston
CANTEEN – Cantina Margarita from Austin
Alamo Beer Company – Sangria San Anto from San Antonio
Old Bones Chilli Co USA hot sauces from Houston are all about the flavor, not just the heat . Every bottle is hand-crafted to the highest standards. Best of all, they break all the rules, mixing and matching cultures, cuisines, and ingredients to take you on a flavor ride.
Sienna Sauce out of Houston, TX. It’s not BBQ sauce. In founder, Tyla-Simone ‘s words, “It’s Everything Sauce.” And it’s so good, you truly could put it on everything. This great company was recently featured on Shark Tank and garnered an investment from Kendra Scott. Is it good on shark meat? I’ll leave that to you to try out.
We’re cooking some Texas breakfast over here. Making biscuits and waffles from Pioneer: Biscuits, Gravies, Pancakes & More (San Antonio, TX). Frying up some breakfast sausage from Ponder Farms (aka Syracuse Sausage Co. in Ponder, TX). And finishing it all off with some TJ Blackburn Syrup Works (Jefferson, TX).
It’s coffee that’s as BOLD as Sam and Texas. Y’all need to check out Raven’s Wing Coffee Co. from Klein, TX. “Raven” was the nickname given to Sam Houston by the Cherokee. And so to honor the hero of San Jacinto and our first president, this small company named their coffee Raven’s Wing. It’s delicious. They have lots of varieties including flavored coffees like churro and bourbon pecan.
It may not be on your list of all-time favorite combos like peanut butter and jelly, chips and queso, or Texas and football, but chocolate and bbq is a combination not to be overlooked! Especially when it comes from Tejas Chocolate and BBQ in Tomball, TX.
I’m gonna be honest. Getting our fruits and veggies on the road is tough. These Jive Company Juices out of Houston, Texas make an excellent road trip companion. Not only are they delicious, but they’re packed with organic fruits and veggies. As founder Tamala Austin says – “Your Health is Your Wealth.” They will deliver ice-cold juice to your door. Or you can find them at H-E-B and Whole Foods Market. Jive On!
It’s amazing the difference a good Texas hot sauce can make. These Hamigos sauces are spicy in all the right ways. Hamigos is a Houston-based Habanero hot sauce company that brings the flavor above heat. But don’t underestimate the spice The bottle tells the story of how the owners met a woman in a Mexican fishing village making the best sauces they had ever tasted from her family farm. They bonded over their shared love for sauce and she entrusted them with her recipes! HAMIGOS was born. You can order your own online at: hamigos.com. I’ll be doing that soon, because these won’t last long.
Texas Product Alert – You don’t need new jewelry for Valentine’s Day. Just make your old stuff look new again. I have no idea how this Majeza Jewelry Cleaner works. But the proof is in the polish. Majeza Jewelry Cleaner is out of Lewisville, TX, and makes cleaning products that take years of gunk and funk off of all kinds of jewelry including costume jewelry. It even polished up my watch. Their website says it’s made of tropical plants and a hint of silicone. I just call it Majeza Magic.
Today on the Texan Table, we show you the best ways to enjoy the official Fruit of Texas, the Red Grapefruit, from Winter Sweetz. We show you how to cut, eat and prepare this delicious citrus, and even show you some drinks you can make with it too. Ever had grapefruit tacos with tuna and avocado? it’s delicious. We also share simple grapefruit paloma recipe. Winter Sweetz grapefruits are ripened to sweet perfection with just a hint of zing!
Delicious Texas Product Alert – TidBits Fun Bites Meringues. Serious deliciousness that you don’t have to feel bad sneaking (less than 2 calories per piece). They also dissolve in your mouth like magic. They’re made in Oak Ridge North, TX (essentially the Woodlands). Give them a shot. I know you’ll like em. They also have KETO and Diabetic lines. I just took the Cookies and Cream one down. Which flavor next?
Time to start the New Year right! Check out these plant-based protein powders by The Militant Vegan made right in Dallas, TX. They took 20 years to come up with this recipe and I can say it was worth the wait! And before you resort to junk food, check out Oovay’s Wunderbar. These bars come from a family recipe that is simply made and minimally processed. THEY ARE DELISH! Lastly, made with organic herbs and minerals is the Boosted Berry! Yummy Gummies 4 U makes these hand-crafted juices that help you from the rooter to the tooter! Start your New Year out right with these fantastic Texan products and remember to support your local Texas companies!
It’s a box of Texas. The edible kind. My favorite kind. I got so excited when this box came to our office from Texas Treats. Rachel here in Georgetown assembles these things and they’re overflowing with some of the best products that Texas has to offer. My box had:
-Jalapeno Cheese from Stryk Jersey Farm (Schulenburg, TX)
-Sausage from Presidio 1757 (Menard, TX)
-Texas Trash from Susie’s South S/40 Forty (Midland, TX)
-Coffee from Big Bend Coffee Roasters (Marfa, TX)
-Whoopie Cookie from The Fancy Marshmallow Co. (Cedar Park, TX)
-Snack Mix from Texas Treats
She makes boxes year-round, but they’re especially awesome during the holidays. Look Rachel up if you need to send someone the gift of Texas.
Hand poured in McGregor, TX, these Uniquely Texan candle co. candles cover all of the best scents of Texas. No matter where you live you can have the scent that takes you home.
Do you like a little SPICY with your SWEET 
?
I’m gonna be honest, it took me a while to come around on mixing sweet & spicy flavors, but now I like a little ZING with my TING and this I Love Chamoy is delicious. For those that don’t know, chamoy is a Mexican sauce that adds spice and sweetness to dishes. It’s usually put on fruit or added to the rim of a beverage like juice or beer.
But this chamoy is special. It was created by a woman named Annie in McAllen whose father was diagnosed with diabetes and couldn’t enjoy Chamoy because of the sugar. So she created a sugar-free version for him using monk fruit for sweetness. I promise, you can’t tell the difference. The product became very successful and even took top-prize in the H-E-B Quest for the Best.
Prepping the Thanksgiving meal can be stressful. So make it easy by ordering some authentic Texas BBQ from Smokey John’s (Dallas, TX) and pie from the Texas Pie Company (Kyle, TX). Both of these are Texas institutions so they know about feeding the masses and keeping them happy. Happy Thanksgiving y’all.
The Hardest Puzzle You Will Never Solve. At least that’s what the box said and I’m gonna be honest – I may never solve it. These Puzzometry Puzzles are designed by a NASA engineer in Kemah and made in Houston.
The first time we opened them, they kept my kids busy for a couple hours. And they’ve come back to them a few times to keep trying. My daughter DID solve one of the easier ones. We dumped it quickly and haven’t been able to solve it again. I’m hooked. They’re so fun.
Check em out. We’re gonna gift these at Christmas too because they’re so good for all ages. Proudly made in Texas.
These fajitas are 
What’s better than a sizzling platter of fajitas delivered to your table? Live-Fire Fajitas delivered to your door. Comal Fajita House (Austin, TX) was started by Chef Breck as a way to share his passion for fire, fajitas, family, and friends. Hey, food brings people together and Breck wants his fajitas to bring folks together over the shared table. That’s why Comal Fajita House exists.
Breck smokes and sears everything on a Mill Scale over post oak wood. The flavor is off-the-charts and he ships all over Texas. All you have to do is reheat and serve. Check em out at: comalfajitahouse.com
Ever had Tunisian Food? Yeah, me either. Let’s try out with this amazing new product – Zwita Foods from Houston, TX. Join me at the Texan Table.
Verified: This is the STUFF. Texas Hot Honey. Talk about kicking food up to the next level! It’s fire 🔥 on pizza but takes chicken sandwiches into orbit 🌎.
This company is from Conroe, TX and infuses Texas honey with different peppers to create a sweet heat 🌶️🫑that is something special. The ORIGINAL brings some punch and their KILLER BEE 🐝 infused with Ghost Peppers will keep any chilihead happy.
Do yourself a favor and order some.
Tis the season – for beer! Oktoberfest beer. This is a classic style from Germany known as “Marzen Bier” and it only comes out once a year in Texas. And so we’re lining up four Texas-made Oktoberfest beers and sampling them to see if we can spot the differences. Give ’em all a try! Altstadt Brewery (Fredericksburg, Tx), Karbach Brewery (Houstin, Tx), Live Oak Brewery (Austin, Tx), & St Arnold Brewery (Houston, Tx).
Well, it’s officially Fall. But is it really? Here’s a Texas-made drink that doesn’t care what season it is because it’s delicious hot or iced. Let me introduce y’all to Hot Ruby cider made in Lubbock, TX. Owner (Roxann) named it after her grandmother “Ruby Faye” using Ruby’s family recipe of cranberry and citrus. It’s easy to imagine these smells simmering on the stove at grandma’s house. 
It’s non-alcoholic but becomes a delicious cocktail by adding your favorite spirit.
I can’t wait for it to get cold, but until then…pass the ice.
What is the greatest after school snack of all time? My vote goes to warm cookies. And these Love & Cookies frozen dough balls are amazing. They’re fast and taste as good as any you’d get from a fancy specialty bakery. But they’re even warmer and gooier when they come out of your oven. These won’t last long in the Garner home.
Can you make salsa without tomatoes? YES! And this Austin company is forging a new frontier in salsa. It’s spicy, salty, and delicious on pretty much anything. Plus – I’ve got a recipe for some of the world’s greatest wings brined in their PickleSplash pickle juice. Find em at the grocery store, or order some here – picklesmash.com
What’s the over/under this morsel of delicious popcorn makes it in my mouth? Even if I miss, I’ll eat it off the ground. Have y’all ever had Deanan Gourmet Popcorn out of Wylie, TX? This Texan family company was started in 1979 by retired Lt. Col Dean Alexander and his wife Nan. (Get it…Dean-Nan). The company blew up, expanded into fundraising and retail. And created some delicious popcorn combinations. My favorite – the sweet heat goodness of the Texas Two Step – caramel and spicy cheddar.
Great coffee deserves extra time! Do you agree? ☕️
Sure there are days when I use my coffee pot, but if I’ve got good coffee and a little extra time, I’m going for the French press. This primoscoffee is definitely coffee worth brewing the slow way. It’s roasted in Cove, Texas and grown by the same family in Jinotega, Nicaragua on a family farm started by their grandfather (Don Felipe) in 1929! They hand-harvest the beans, dry them in the sun, and ship them to Texas for roasting in small batches to order. I drink coffee every morning, and it tastes (and feels) good to support a family business. Especially on gotexan Thursday.
I don’t have a sweet tooth. I’ve got a full set of sweet teeth
Looks like it may run in the family. 
Susie’s South Forty Confections, Inc. out of Midland, Texas makes some of the most amazing toffee, caramel, and fudge that you’ll ever gift to your mouth. Susie’s been making her signature sweets since the 80’s when she bought a pecan orchard and needed something to do with the pecans. Since then she’s moved on to become a Texas-sized Willy Wonka and even got inducted to the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame. Watch the video of our full tour – https://youtu.be/K93f72qmCdM. You can tour the factory and gift shop yourself in Midland or order online from – https://www.susiessouthforty.com. Happy Sweetin’ and Eatin’. Learn more about the GO TEXAN program – http://www.gotexan.org
Got a question. Which sausage are you going for? 
The one on your left is a Bear Creek-Smokehouse knockwurst done with traditional German mustard and kraut. The one on the right is a Bear Creek Polish Sausage slathered with goat cheese and homemade relish made of diced pickles, jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro. So…??? It’s #GOTEXANThursday and we’re eating good over here. Pre-dinner snack was some Bear Creek smoked pork tenderloin. This GO TEXAN company is based in Marshall, Texas and has been smoking incredible meats and prepping their own goods since 1943. That’s a Texas-sized minute for sure. They started by curing hams and turkeys that became a big holiday hit. And today – they’ve expanded to to make ALL kinds of items. Check their website. Everything I’ve ever tried from Bear Creek Smokehouse has been delicious! For the record – I’m just gonna eat BOTH of these sausages. Check out GO TEXAN to learn more about this company and other amazing Texas-run companies like it.
Hear me out. Ripe Summer Peach 
with goat cheese 
and ghost pepper 
salt from Texas Salt Co.
Or…Bourbon margarita 
rimmed with Texas Salt Co. bourbon barrel smoked salt. Or truthfully ANYTHING edible with ANYTHING Texas Salt Co. Because it’s #GOTEXANThursday and we’re feeling salty over here. I don’t have much experience with fancy salts, but after experimenting a bit in the kitchen with this line up from Texas Salt Co. out of Bandera, TX, I don’t think that I can go back. Owners (Daniel and Andrew) cold smoke their salts over real wood for nearly a week. They add things like garlic and ground pepper to bring out amazing flavors and heat. The end result is something truly special that packs a Texas-sized PUNCH
. The Cowboy Salt is unreal! If you think you’re a good cook now – wait until you cook with these salts. They’ll raise your cookin’ to another level. Just another amazing GO TEXAN partner doing their thing and making all of Texas proud. Learn more by checking out their profiles.
Texans can make anything. Even real Punjabi Curry that brings all the flavor and heat of an authentic Indian meal to your home. Thanks Currygirl LLC for making it so stinkin’ easy and delicious. In this video we make spicy Tikka Masala and Curry Chicken using Curry Girl’s jars of the world’s first preservative-free take-home curry sauces. Order your own – https://www.shopcurrygirl.com. Learn more about the GO TEXAN program – http://www.gotexan.org
Yeah, we poured that! Because…it’s #GOTEXANThursday. And because the kids need summer activities to not destroy the house. But this is a really cool candle making kit from Henry’s Daughter Home Decor. You can pick the container to add your own style. Or just buy one in up-cycled wine or soda bottles. This GO TEXAN partner is from Dallas, Texas and pours delicious-smelling candles into recycled and upcycled bottles that they smoothly cut for candle purposes. A lot of the wine bottles are from local restaurants. And when the candle burns out, you get a really cool drinking glass as a souvenir. The STAYCATION was my favorite, but my wife loved the GRAPEFRUIT MINT one. Check out the GO TEXAN page to learn more about this awesome program from the Texas Dept of Agriculture.
Get that Big Beard Shine for Summer Time. 
Some folks only grown winter beards, but here at The Daytripper, it’s a year round commitment. This #GOTEXANThursday let me introduce you to Big Daddy Beard out of Forney, TX with all the feel-good, smell-good, look-good products to keep your beard on its A-game, even if the rest of your body is still in winter hibernation mode. This company started in 2019 when Big Daddy’s wife (Melissa) wanted beard oils that smelt amazing, but didn’t dry out Big Daddy’s luscious beard or turn it into a grease-ball. So, she created her own. They now make soap, shampoo, tattoo butter, and more. Their signature scent “Texas Cowboy” is money! As Big Daddy says – it will help get you more HUGS at home. Hint Hint – Father’s Day is coming up. To learn more about their products and subscription boxes – https://www.bigdaddybeardoil.com
It’s a Texan’s Tiki dream – delicious rum drinks made with authentic TEXAS RUM from Hye Rum out of Dripping Springs. I’m whipping up a delicious piña colada and putting a Texan spin on a Mai-Tai. With summer approaching, you need to have a few bottles of Hye Rum on stand-by for your island vacations, whether that’s to South Padre or just in your imagination. Find out more about Hye Rum and GoTexan.
The only thing prettier than the cheese is the board that it’s sitting on. Let me introduce y’all to Kalisee boards out of Allen, Texas. #GOTEXANThursday This company specializes in live-edge wooden boards where you can see the shape and grain of the tree on the edges of the board. Ain’t no boring machine-squared edges here. They use locally-harvested Texas trees and handcraft these boards with antique handles. You can use it to display charcuterie, chips and dip, or even eat your lunch ham sandwiches off of it if you’re feeling extra fancy. Visit their site to order or find them at markets in the Dallas area. http://kalisee.com Learn more about other GO TEXAN partners at http://gotexan.org
How do you save your car from the Road Trip Stinkies? Well it’s #GoTexanThursday and I’ve got the solution. This leather air freshener from Dirty Hands Candle Co will turn your stink-mobile into a mobile saddle shop (or at least it will smell that way). 
Based in Canyon, Texas, owners Mike and Becky Hudgins produce hand-crafted leather goods and candles that smell like a slice of Texas. The name comes from the fact that the owners are always happiest when their hands are dirty. And its hard work, grit, and love that make their products smell so good. In their words, the “Pearl Snap” candle “smells like a cowboy on a Saturday night dressed up to find his honkytonk angel.” That’s a smell and a feeling I can get behind. Check out their profile to learn more about them – Dirty Hands Candle Co. You can learn more about the amazing GO TEXAN program at http://gotexan.org. You can learn more about some of my other favorite Texan companies here – https://thedaytripper.com/gotexanthursday-products/
When you’re trying to share some Sweetie’s Cheesecakes with your sweetie and someone crashes the party. It’s OK because it’s #GOTEXANThursday and there’s plenty to go around. Which flavor are you grabbing? Y’all need to know about this company. They’re Fort Worth based and create delicious, individual-sized cheesecakes in mason jars. With four year-round flavors and 30+ seasonal flavors. The “signature” has just a touch of lemon zest and the “mango habanero” brings the most amazing sweet 
. I recommend getting the four-pack, which they’ll ship to your door! Check out their page to order –Sweetie’s Cheesecakes.
I love meat and I love pie crust. What happens if you put them together? MMMPANADAS! This Austin company was one of the first food trucks to run the Austin streets and now has their delicious meat pies available frozen in grocery stores across Texas. Are they great? Let’s just say – they’re MMMAZING. We cook some up and try them out.
To sauce or not to sauce? That is the question. Great BBQ doesn’t need sauce. BUT – BBQ Sauce is the greatest condiment on the planet. So, what do you think? Well, it’s #GOTEXANThursday and I’m saucing everything with some delicious Texas Q sauce made in Kingwood, TX. The owner (Sloan Rinaldi) is one of the few female pit bosses in TX and has even represented TX on Food Network’s Grillmasters Tournament. Needless to say, she can smoke with the best of them. Sloan brings her amazing 4th-gen Texas tradition and passion to her Q. They have a killer food truck and all their of their sauces are . Next time you want some sauce to spice up your meal (it doesn’t have to be BBQ), then try this out.
Where my lamb fans at? 
It’s #GoTexanThursday and we’re cooking up some lamb chops and roast from Defaid Livestock Co. out of Snyder, Texas. This family-owned business raises sheep and goats for the herds of others, but recently decided to start offering their incredible lamb meats directly to customers. Lamb is one of the most popular proteins across the globe, but us Texans don’t eat enough of it. It’s packed full of great vitamins and tastes like nothing else. It’s lamb! I’m enjoying it more and more these days and Defaid is here to help all Texans become “lambventurous” too. As an added bonus, the family’s Defaid Emporium also makes incredible candies and snacks under the family brand that goes back to the early 1900’s. Learn more and order some at defaidlivestock.com!
Do you have a favorite coffee mug? Tall or short? 8oz or 32oz? I’m always amazed at how passionate and different we are when it comes to our preferred drinking vessel. Let me introduce you to my new favorite mug from Juliette’s Wheelhouse in Houston, TX – a proud GO TEXAN partner. 
#gotexanthursday
Yes, it’s got my name on it. So – extra points for that. But even better is the fact that it was handmade and stained by a true artist right here in Texas. Juliette is clearly passionate about what she does and creates some of the most beautiful mugs, cups, vases, and pottery I’ve ever seen. Because of her process, each piece is different. There’s just something cathartic about watching her etch designs into her pottery. Seriously, go watch. And, if you’re so inclined, hop over to her Etsy page and support this amazing Texas artist. Coffee just tastes better in one of her cups. Trust me on this. The last picture is one of her unique herb strippers, which I do love using in the kitchen. Juliette’s Wheelhouse Etsy Page.
Thank you COWS for your many delicious uses! And thank you Bello Tallow for turning beef tallow into superfood for skin. I’ve always wanted to cover my body in beef fat and now I can. 
Happy #GoTexanThursday y’all.
In all seriousness, I’m really digging this product. Bello Tallow out of Midland, Texas has taken high-quality, pure Texas tallow (aka rendered beef fat), whipped it, and mixed it with essential oils to create a creamy, delicious-smelling line of skincare products. While it may sound strange, tallow has properties that resemble the natural oils produced by our skin. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and great for sensitive skin. The founder (Natalie) started this company after discovering the benefits of tallow and wanted to create a line of non-toxic, safe, and sustainable products. If you’re having dry knuckles and cracked elbows like me, you gotta try this stuff. I’ll be using the “Time Machine” as well. So let me know if I look like I’m filming Season One again. 
Get more info on Bello Tallow and other amazing GO TEXAN partners at http://gotexan.org
Yes, it’s 100% acceptable to show your love handles in public! Let me introduce you to LoveHandle Phone Grips out of Houston, Texas, making (by far) the best thing you’ll ever add to your phone. I’ve never liked adding anything to my phone that makes it bulkier in my pocket. But one day I slapped a LOVE HANDLE phone grip on my phone and it was a game changer. It’s a tight elastic band for the back of your phone. It’s slim and comfortable to hold about a dozen different ways – even with one finger. Plus – it comes in a Texas flag and an insane amount of other designs. The newest “PRO” versions even have a magnet and kickstand incorporated. I give it a thumbs up. And it looks like this hoodoo in Big Bend agrees.
If I’m cooking, I’m bringing the flavor. Smoke, Spice, Herbs
…I want all of it. This #GoTexanThursday, I’m packing some punch with Texana Brands infused olive oils. Of their 10 flavors – which one are you grabbing? This GO TEXAN partner grows its olives on a 150-acre orchard in Artesia Wells, TX (it’s about an hour from Laredo). It’s named after the owner’s great-great grandmother whose name was actually “Texana.” It doesn’t get much more Texan than that. They’re not only making some incredible oils, but they’re also working hard to educate the public on the value of using Texas olive oil. They’re great for cooking, dipping, dressings, and basically anything you’d use olive oil for, but maybe want an extra layer of flavor and spice. Hey, it’s TEXAS – bring the flavor!
When the resolution is to eat more vegetables…. Let me introduce y’all to 1934 BBQ Sauce out of Cedar Park, making its signature BBQ sauce using a recipe that’s been enjoyed by the family and fellow Texans since 1934. It’s got no additives, fillers or preservatives and is made just like grandpa used to make it. It’s bold and peppery just like a Texas sauce should be, and the variations are .Their newest product is their BBQ-inspired and award-winning Bloody Mary mix, which is delicious. So, when you’re up early throwing a log on the smoker or using their 1934 sauce to glaze the ribs – you could be sipping on some 1934 too. Since we only have a few weeks of football left, you need to bring this to your next tailgate! 
For more information about awesome Texas products and makers, check out GO TEXAN.
Sometimes I have thoughts about Texas. Sometimes I write them down. When I do, I prefer pens made of actual pieces of Texas. With the incredible The Texas Penwright pen in my hand, you can almost ignore my poorly drawn freehand of Texas — hey, like you could draw a better one?? #GOTEXANThursdayIf you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your Texan-loving friends and family, look no further than these pens from GO TEXAN Partner The Texas Penwright, made from mesquite tree & prickly pear cactus. Although the materials they came from may be sharp (here’s looking at you, cactus), these beautiful pens write very smoothly.
I bought every flavor of Blue Bell at HEB…no joke! I grew up eating Blue Bell ice cream. I consider myself a Blue Bell expert, but can I guess the correct flavors BLINDFOLDED? My own family puts me to the test. How many can I get right? #GOTEXANThursday LEARN MORE: bluebell.com
A quiet moment on the back patio (when the kids are finally asleep) calls for some great wine, so we’re popping open some Farmhouse Vineyards “Ramble On” Red and letting the day disappear. This family-run winery is crafting some incredible wines and boasts 8 generations farming 7,000 acres of grapes, cotton, and more in the High Plains of Texas. As a business, they grow grapes for lots of wineries. But they’re taking special care when it comes to crafting their own wines using grapes from their home base in Brownfield, Texas. Check them out Whitehouse Parker, Farmhouse Vineyards Tasting Room in Brownfield or at their tasting room in Johnson City Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace & Tipsy Trailer.
Woof! Woof! Today’s all about dogs; a tripper’s best friend. Our furry buddy, Mr. Winston, enjoys tasty dog treats by GrandDog Bakery, quenches his doggie thirst from a Woof Water Bottle, and takes a warm bath with Dogtor Doolittle™ Poochie ‘Poo Solid Dog Shampoo by A Joy Forever Bath + Body.
Susan, founder of GrandDog Bakery, began making healthy treats for her daughter’s dog to help him live a healthier and happier life. She now sells and ships treats worldwide from Austin, TX. But she still makes them with love; one small batch at a time.
John, inventor of Woof Water, set out to create the best and simplest solution for keeping dogs easily hydrated with clean water. After 3 years of designs and prototypes, John finally got it right. Woof Water is proudly made in Austin, TX using only the finest materials.
A Joy Forever founder and Texan, Diane Seimetz Duncan, started crafting natural skin and home care products using simple, plant-based, ethically-sourced ingredients for herself. After experiencing the benefits of her natural products, she decided to share it with humans…and dogs alike.
You’ve heard of all the benefits of CBD products, but do they really work? I’ll explore that and more with artisanal full spectrum CBD products from Austin, TX based GO TEXAN partner Sweet Sensi. Can CBD help you? Watch and find out.
I’ve always done my best writing on paper. At least, that’s when I enjoy it the most. There’s something about holding a pen in your hand and feeling the ink glide across the lines. Unbounded Leather Company out of Fort Worth, TX understands that texture matters and inspires. Unbounded is a small leather shop making genuine products that last. Products that have weight, quality, and in their words give you the courage to “live unbounded.” They have wallets, purses, keychains, and this awesome mason jar wrapped in a leather jacket. Does whiskey taste better out of a cup like this? Yes, it does. Go check them out and support small businesses like Unbounded Leather and other GO TEXAN makers.
What’s the difference between a Macaron and a Macaroon? And did you know that a Texas company is making some of the best (and most creative) macaron’s this side of the Eiffel Tower? Well, now you do! It’s #GOTEXANThursday and we’re trying out the amazing French pastry/cookie made by Savor Patisserie out of Dallas, TX. Another amazing GO TEXAN partner.
The Cast Iron Skillet. Some love it. Some hate it. But in order to use it correctly, you’ve got to start by seasoning it correctly. This is a step-by-step tutorial of how to PROPERLY season a cast iron. Since it’s #GOTEXANThursday, we’re using a brand-new Fredericksburg Cast Iron made 100% in Texas. Check it out. And Happy Cooking.Learn more about this amazing company – Fredericksburg Cast Iron Co.
We’re staying extra toasty over here for #GOTEXANThursday with hot cocoa from Dripping Springs Chocolate Company! But what chocolate bar should we crack into first?This company makes some of the best chocolate there is and does it the hard way. They ethically source RAW cacoa beans, grind them, blend them with ingredients, and form them into bars. They showed me around their shop in Dripping Springs and it was so cool to watch the process. Go check them out or hunt down at retailers across Texas.
It’s bath time on #GOTEXANThursday and I’ve roped in my top product tester. He wanted to eat everything but I told him it wasn’t food, just Sassy Bubbles Bath Bombs. These delicous-looking bath bombs are handmade in Celina, Texas. They fizz, foam, bubble, and some provide soothing aromatherapy. One even comes with a rubber ducky on top earning extra awesome points. My product tester gave them two ducks up. 
If it’s a GO TEXAN product – I’m up for trying it. Even a “hibiscus clay mask” from Seed and Petal. Because hey – it’s #GOTEXANThursday. They may have thought these products were for my wife…but….why not. Laura did have to help me figure it out, though. This family business operates out of Richmond, Texas where they formulate organic skin and healthcare products. For this mother/daughter team, it’s all about transparency and knowing where products come from (it is going on your face after all). So, everything is certified organic and cruelty-free. As an added touch, every order comes with a packet or two of wildflower seeds. Our seeds are already in the ground. I got a whole array of products and tried them all. I must admit, it left my skin feeling pretty darn fantastic. I could get used to this. You can order online at shop.gotexan.org.
Holidays = home cooked food and family. But food and family = lots of standing around in the kitchen. I mean, that green bean casserole ain’t gonna make itself. This Texan company is here to help. Not with the casserole or family, but with the standing. It’s #GOTEXANThursday (on a Friday) and let me introduce y’all to GelPro mats.This GO TEXAN partner manufactures (in Waco) some amazing and Texas proud comfort floor mats that are so soft and springy they feel like you’re standing on a cloud. Like your kitchen floor is made of shoe insoles. These mats relieve pressure on your ankles, knees, back, toes, tibia, fibia, tarsals, metatarsals… you get the idea. They also come in a crazy assortment of sizes and colors. Check them out on their page or online at http://GelPro.com.
We’re big fans of chocolate over here. Milk, dark, nutty. Now…vegan. Let me introduce y’all to Wicked BOLD Chocolate out of Highland Village, TX with a new store in Flower Mound. it’s #GOTEXANThursday*This small batch chocolate was the result of a quest to find delicious chocolate without funky additives and ingredients. Owners Brooklyn and Deric now make tasty chocolate that’s organic, vegan, and direct trade. That makes it healthy, delicious, and Texan! The cayenne was but my favorite was the hazelnut. Hunt some down at shop.gotexan.org.
We all know you can “jerkify” beef, but what about salmon and soy beans? Well, Texans are making jerky out of almost everything. But is it good? This month at The Texan Table, we try Brockhouse Jerky beef jerky, The Good Jerky salmon jerky, and All Y’alls Foods It’s Jerky Y’all plant-based jerky. This ain’t your grandpappy’s jerky. #GOTEXANThursday
As King George (Strait) says “You’ve got to have a ACE IN THE HOLE.” Check out this “Ace in Hole” boot wallet created by GO TEXAN partner ROX by Tori and Mo out of Grapevine, TX. It’s a “little secret that nobody knows…” This duo of Tori & Mo specializes in premium leather promotional items and can stamp your logo on anything from leather coasters to key chains to koozies. Yes, leather koozies. I’m getting an order in for The Daytripper World HQ now. Learn more at http://roxtx.com.
Feed others as you would have them feed you. I want a bite of Berdoll Pecan Candy & Gift Co. pie! So that’s what I’m feeding everyone. You may know this company as the giant squirrel on Hwy 71 between Austin and Bastrop. OR…the company with the 24 hour pecan pie vending machine. They are all of that, but also a 30+ year old family biz with 15,000+ trees. They make an insanely delicious pecan pie that they’ll ship straight to your door. Get one! Share it! Learn more at www.berdollpecanfarm.com.
If you’re gonna make salsa in Texas, you better bring the FLAVOR and the HEAT. And let me tell you Bernard’s Gourmet Foods from McKinney, TX brings them both. Emphasis on the . Can I handle the heat from the awesome GO TEXAN partner? Watch and find out.
Texas shrimp season is HERE! And Texas Shrimp are some of the best on earth. I whip up some amazing shrimp ceviche and blackened shrimp tacos using wild-caught brown shrimp from Philly Seafood out of Palacios, Texas. Maybe I need my own cooking show? Or maybe I should stick with daytripping? Either way, the shrimp are DELICIOUS! #GOTEXANThursday
I shower with goats! 
OK, I’m just kiddin’ around (get it?). But these goat’s milk products from Dusty Road Farm have me feeling pretty darn MAAAAAA-gnificent on #GoTexanThursday. From the countryside of Normangee, Texas, this veteran-owned company is producing some amazing, all-natural products using the milk from some of the happiest, healthiest goats in Texas.They have soap, lotion, milk bath, and more. 
They also make room spray, lip balm, and other non-milky products. If you don’t know about the benefits of goat milk for your skin, you need to learn quick. Seriously, this stuff is like magic. And I’m not kidding on that one.
Taylor Paladino is a watercolor artist from Dallas and colors everything from armadillos to Big Tex to 
s in 
. He’s got a signature style for sure and prints it on cards, candles, stationary, tea towels, and more. Beyond being bright and beautiful, a lot of his stuff in pretty stinkin funny. He’s one of the many talented GO TEXAN partners we have in Texas.
Chocolate or Regular Milk? Or how about Strawberry or Vanilla Milk? Which one you picking? It’s National Dairy Month and #GoTexanThursday so we’re drinking all the flavors from Volleman’s Family Farm in Gustine, TX. This GO TEXAN partner is a family business focused on high-quality milk and environmental sustainability. That’s why they bottle in glass. Learn more at http://vollemansdairy.com.
FACT: Texans love wearing shirts about Texas. So for #GOTEXANThursday let me introduce you to the best darn Texans making Texas shirts for Texans there is – Tumbleweed TexStyles. Co-founders Brian and Jeb were both public school teachers in Frisco ISD when they decided to start Tumbleweed TexStyles in 2011. From the first day, their designs have been . Just check their profile. I started wearing their shirts as soon as I found out about them and even invited them on our episode about Frisco, Texas. Swipe to see a pics. Their success has allowed them to give thousands of dollars back to public schools and for them to open a new flagship store in Frisco. Congrats y’all and as long as there’s a Texas, I’ll be wearing Tumbleweed TexStyles shirts.
Describe your father’s (or husband’s) beard in one word. If you came up with anything less than “immaculate” then listen up, ’cause it’s #gotexanthursday. Today we’re featuring The Immaculate Beard making premium handmade gentlemen’s grooming supplies in Dallas, TX. The balms, oils, bars, and shampoos will keep your lucky man’s beard in tip-top condition. And they smell amazing. Seriously amazing. You’ll likely want to nestle in and live in his immaculate beard. The gift set makes an excellent Father’s Day gift and can be found at http://shop.gotexan.org.
Nothing like waking up to the taste of Texas with a little Parker County Coffee Roasters in my cup. Do y’all know where Parker County is? #GOTEXANThursdayIt’s just west of Fort Worth with its county seat in Weatherford. This town knows a LOT about cowboys and, as we know, cowboys LOVE their coffee. Owner Matt Herron is passionate about making the best “Texas born artisan coffee” out there. Each bag of “PCCR” is individually roasted and shipped out within 24 hours. The freshness is undeniable. Wrangle yourself a bag by visiting http://shop.gotexan.org.
Have you ever wished your pizza pepper did more work? That it tasted like more than slightly spicy sawdust? Let me introduce you to Pretty Thai Brand out of Austin, TX with a Thai Chili Powder that’s on pizza and anything that needs a flavor roundhouse kick. #GOTEXANThursday.
This couple (Kristen and Robert Strong) has a deep passion for clean, high quality ingredients that capture the flavors they’ve experienced across the world, including during Robert’s military service. After culinary school they started a food truck then went to farmers markets selling spices that are now available in grocery stores across Texas. It’s awesome to add some Asian spices to my cabinet which is severely lacking in that category. Just another excellent GO TEXAN partner!
It’s always chili weather in Texas! For #GoTexanThursday, we’re whipping up some beef chili using the Emporium Spice Chili Kit made in Temple, Texas.This company has been making their signature chili kits since the 1970s and they’re great if you want to whip up a classic “bowl of red.” But – beans or no beans?
Bluebonnet season is coming! And I don’t know of a Texas maker that celebrates more than Fredericksburg Farms. They’ve got an entire line-up of soaps, lotions, and candles inspired by the official flower of the state of Texas. It’s #GoTexanThursday and I just saw my first 2022 bluebonnet – just one.
Fredericksburg Farms started as a Hill Country flower nursery selling poinsettias and geraniums. Before long they had expanded into gourmet sauces and rubs. And then came the incredible soaps and more. Their leather-scented stuff is amazing. They’re another amazing GO TEXAN partner.
Order online and smell for yourself at http://fbgfarms.com
Y’all check out this custom metal sign that HL Guest Handmade created for me for #GOTEXANThursday. This company is awesome. It was started by Hayden and Lauren Guest in 2015 after Hayden had been working as a field welder for years and they decided to take the leap of faith toward owning a small business. (Read the full story on their website). They can make virtually ANYTHING out of metal in their shop in Wheeler, Texas. So if you’re looking to put your logo on a metal sign, gate, bedframe…you need to give them a call.
They’re an incredible GO TEXAN partner making great stuff here in the Lone Star State.
I used Fischer & Wieser’s Texas Whiskey Glaze & Red Hot Jalapeno Jelly on my Grilled Pork Chops for a dinnertime masterpiece. It was flavorful, tender and a perfect dab of sweet heat. GO TEXAN Partner Fischer & Wieser is making incredibly Texan jams, jellies and sauces right out of Fredericksburg, and whether you’re using them to step up your grilling game like I did, or you go the classic Texan route and throw them over a block of cream cheese, these sauces will class up any gathering. Shop all of their sauces HERE.
These are the most epic Texas Christmas gifts you can give in 2020. We’ve partnered with GO TEXAN to bring you the Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide — and the coolest part? All of these gift ideas are made by Texans, which means you can shop small and impress your friends & family.
Jerry Sims of GO TEXAN Partner the Happy Toy Maker is basically the Texan Santa Claus. Along with his wife and mother, he handcrafts these realistic metal semi-trucks, farm animals and even cattle trailer toys so you can get your little Texans started in the cowboy-lifestyle right from the start.
We all need some extra luck in 2021, right? So, I give you Black-Eyed Pea Vodka from BlackEyed Distilling Co. in Fort Worth, TX. Perfect for when you need a whole lotta luck in the New Year. It’s 100% Texas-made using black-eyed peas and it goes down so, so smoothly. It doesn’t taste like peas…promise.
So I’m new to this Kombucha thing, but I’m catching on quickly. Bare Bucha out of Waco is some of the best I’ve ever had. And the flavors are incredible. Kombucha is fermented tea, but the fermentation process doesn’t produce alcohol (or at least only trace amounts). It gives the satisfaction and flavor of drinking a beer or cider, but without the alcohol or calories. Perfect for anyone doing Dry January or someone who doesn’t drink. Bare Bucha even has a tap room in Waco!
Y’all ever tried Black Sesame Ice Cream? It might be my new favorite flavor. Gallivant is making Indian-style “Mawa” Ice Creams out of Houston, TX that are inspired by real global flavors. This flight of ice creams took me on a flight around the world and they’re some of the most unique flavors I’ve ever tried.
GO TEXAN Partner Proletas has done the impossible — they’ve created super-tasty Protein-packed Paletas (get it “Pro”…“Letas”). They’re the perfect post-workout snack because they’re designed to help your muscles repair after exercising and they have anywhere between 17-31 grams of protein (which is ALOT)! With flavors like cappuccino, dark chocolate and key lime pie, you might find yourself alternating between weight lifts and ice cream licks. And there ain’t no shame in that.
I’m definitely not a Master Sommelier and I may not know all the fancy words (like why does wine have “legs??”), but I can say with 100% confidence that Texas is making some amazing wines and this Los Pinos Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon from Pittsburg, Texas (not Pennsylvania) tastes delicious all the way down. It’s rich, smooth, velvety…and produced in EAST TEXAS using grapes from the Texas High Plains. They’ve become so popular that they added a second tasting room in the Hill Country outside of Fredericksburg. So, sip back and relax and CHEERS to great Texas wine.
Instead of fillers and tons of salt, the Texas-themed pastas from GO TEXAN Partner Austin Gourmet Foods are made from real ingredients like cracked pepper, garlic and tomato, and have the coolest names (here’s looking at you Pfantastic Pflugerville Roasted Garlic and Austin-tatious Spinach Basil Garlic!) They’ve also got a whole line of infused olive oils, balsamic vinegars and spices that are “magnifico!”
GO TEXAN partner Kolache Rolf’s in College Station, TX is making it easy to have your favorite road trip treat from the comfort of your home, no road trip necessary. These real-deal Czech kolaches are handmade at the bakery, packaged up, and shipped to your hungry house. Pop ‘em in the microwave and — voila!! — you’ve got fresh fruity kolaches, warm klobasniky, and gooey cinnamon rolls! Texas magic, y’all.
GO TEXAN Partner Dublin Bottling Works is the oldest soda bottling facility in the state. In fact, for almost 130 years, they’ve been providing afternoon pick-me-ups in the form of vibrant and colorful sodas in lip-smacking flavors like tart Green Apple and sour Cherry Limeade. Or you can go for classic Vintage Cola or Dublin Root Beer. And what truly sets these beverages apart is that they’re made with 100% pure cane sugar! These sodas shamROCK.
Saddle up, y’all — today we’re talking LEATHER. And these ain’t just any leather goods, they’re hand tooled artworks by a true Texas Cowgirl at McIntire Saddlery in Cisco, TX.
Whiski Designs is serving up fun stickers, cards, koozies and tees with a southwestern flair — and a TEXAS-SIZED amount of sass out of their shop in Dallas. Every design is hand-drawn and lettered by Whiski Designs owner India Hearne. Now that’s Texan talent, y’all!
As important as faith and food are to the culture of Schulenburg, equally as important is the power of polka!
It’s a tradition forever woven into the fabric of this town. Just like the sound of an accordion tune that you can’t get out of your head. I know, polka may not be for everyone but to some it’s everything! And if your toes aren’t tapping by the time you leave this museum – Czech your pulse.
Since 2010, this museum has been honoring the Texans who bring the polka power all over the state.
Father’s Day is coming up and your dad deserves something just as awesome as he is. Whether he’s a bearded wonder, the pitmaster, a trippin’ fanatic or a true cowboy, we’ve got the perfect gift for him at DTHQ!
A man’s beard is a wondrous thing and deserves products that are just as awesome. We’ve partnered with some incredible Texas folks who also revere the beard to bring you these great-smelling products.
Does Dad have a rockin’ beard? Help him maintain that manly mane with these amazing balms and oils from the folks at West Texas Beard Company in Lubbock.
Dad will look sharp with these natural and organic Austin-made shower products made of 100% pure essential oils and organic activated charcoal.
Does Dad love trippin’ Texas? Has he visited almost every state park, read every historical marker and driven every highway in Texas? Then this list of trippin’ gear is for him.
It’s no secret that Texas summers are blazing hot. Keep Dad cool (in more than one way) with a super comfy t-shirt!
The heat of the day is no match for The Daytripper Water Bottle. Choose dad’s favorite color and help him stay hydrated out on trips. And if he chooses to fill it with beer, we won’t judge.
If your dad’s life goal is to become a part of the 254 Club, this colorful scratch-off map by MapPinners in Austin will help him keep track of where he’s been as he slowly conquers Texas.
This is the ultimate hat for any Dad-Tripper. ‘Nuff said.
These DT Sunglasses ideal gift for any man who loves to spend his days outdoors hiking, hunting, boating or, let’s be honest here, waiting 5 hours in line for some tasty Texas BBQ.
Here’s a list of tricks, spices and cooking techniques from some of the top BBQ Pitmasters in the state for all the dads who get more heated debating Texas’s best BBQ joints than politics, and whose idea of a fancy dinner consists of long lines, parchment paper plates and smoke-stained walls.
Help Dad step up his BBQ game with these products from Jess Pryles, Australian-turned-Austinite and meat connoisseur. She’s got these delicious meat-enhancing rubs and the Hardcore Carnivore Cookbook to keep Dad cooking like a pro!
What do you call a piece of meat that you don’t eat? A missed steak. It’d also be a mistake to let Father’s Day pass without introducing your dad to the magical spices and cooking techniques of Perini Ranch, Abilene’s famous steakhouse.
Get ready to welcome long lines of folks into your home if you buy your dad this book by Austin’s own famous pitmaster Aaron Franklin. In his manifesto, he reveals some of his juicy secrets for creating the perfect brisket.
The Holy Trinity of Barbecue is typically brisket, sausage and ribs. But Matt Pittman of Meat Church has created his own: Honey Hog BBQ, Holy Cow BBQ and The Gospel All-Purpose Rubs to help Dad get his grill on at home!
BBQ is more than just an important Texas food group, it’s a lifestyle. And now your dad can keep track of all the best ‘que joints in Texas with this log book made by Justin Tordella in Austin, TX.
Does your dad eat, live and breathe Texas? Is his favorite holiday Texas Independence Day? Can he recite Texas history from memory? Than these Texified gifts are the way to go!
Put a little Tex in Dad’s step with these comfy and colorful Texas Flag Socks!
These knives made up in the Panhandle of Texas are more than just sharp and beautiful — they’ll last Dad a lifetime!
If your dad is a huge Daytripper fan, he’ll love this hat. It’s comfy and the ideal hat for trippin’ across Texas.
Is your dad’s favorite scent the smell of a new pair of cowboy boots? Then he’ll love these expertly crafted leather air fresheners from Clyde, TX.
Lexington, TX
Deciding whose barbecue is best is a monumental task, but the professionals at Texas Monthly Magazine have spoken – twice! – and named Snow’s BBQ as the winner. And if Snow’s is the best barbecue in Texas, then by extension, it must be the best barbecue in the world.
Snow’s is only open on Saturdays, so if you want to eat what might just be the best barbecue of your life, you’ll have to pull yourself out of bed before the rooster crows to claim your place in line. The small town of Lexington doubles in size every weekend as folks from all over the world come to taste greatness.
Owner Kerry Bexley likes to say that he “can’t make you like their barbecue, but he can make sure you have a good time while you’re here.” Customer service and hospitality are highest up on the Snow’s priority list, so even though you will most likely be waiting in line for several hours, you won’t be bored. Bexley likes to liven things up with raffles and complimentary beverages to promote a general camaraderie between meat lovers, no matter where in the world they are from.
When asked if he had a secret to making good barbecue, Bexley shrugged.
“It’s just a lot of TLC,” he maintained. “We’re basic on all our seasonings; we’ve never seasoned with anything but salt and pepper. And we’re one of the few that don’t use a high quality cut of brisket. If you know what you’re doing with it, you can do a good job.”
Meeting the sheer volume of demand is no small task, and that’s why it takes Bexley’s whole family, including his wife, Kim, and their three kids, as well as the efforts of a dedicated staff that feels like family, to keep up. Incredibly, most of the people who work for Bexley also have full time jobs during the week, including the queen of Texas barbecue herself: Ms. Tootsie Tomanetz.
At 86 years old, Ms. Tootsie is a self-taught barbecue master and pit boss with a worldwide fanbase. But even with all that notoriety and fame, she’s still just Ms. Tootsie.
“I’m an old country girl,” she said. “I’m just myself. I enjoy this work. I like to turn out a pretty product.”
It isn’t easy or comfortable work, and Ms. Tootsie is serious about it: “If you can’t stand the heat, don’t start the barbecue!”
Though Ms. Tootsie works full time as a janitor for Giddings Independent School District, she started in the barbecue business with her late husband just a few blocks from Snow’s. After their smokers were closed for a number of years, Bexley called her back into action to help open Snow’s, and the world rejoiced.
If you’re able to make it out to Snow’s, take it from Chet: Don’t go easy. Go all in and try everything, even if it’s nine o’clock in the morning.
Snow’s seems to break all the “rules” of Texas barbecue, but their final product can’t be argued with. It’s that good. So good, in fact, that it put a small place like Lexington on the map. It’s a vibrant community that continues to attract people from all over the world, and it is most definitely worth a daytrip.
When asked how long she was going to continue blessing the world with her barbecue mastery, Ms. Tootsie said she wasn’t sure. Perhaps another century?
“That would be wonderful,” she replied, smiling.
Long live the queen of Texas barbecue.
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Photo credit: Todd White Photography
Graham, TX
According to local captain and tour guide Jack Graham, one of the best things about Possum Kingdom Lake is that it’s not overly crowded.
“It’s one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas, and what’s been great about it in the 39 years I’ve been coming out here is that it hasn’t been known. So you don’t have a lot of lake traffic.”
The cliffs of Possum Kingdom are unrivaled. One formation in particular is known as Hell’s Gate: two stunning and sheer cliffs that beckon all who dare to enter. The cove was created by an oxbow of the original river channel and it makes a great place for people to hang out on the lake.
“That’s where people congregate for recreational fun,” says Graham, smiling.
The craziest thing that happens here is the Red Bull Cliff Diving Championship, in which divers compete from heights between roughly 85 and 91 feet. So even if the devil on your shoulder tempts you to try jumping yourself, it’s best left to the professionals. In fact, jumping from any cliff higher than 20 feet around the lake is illegal.
Jumping from shorter cliffs around the lake is legal, however, and remains a popular pastime. Do you think you could take on one of these cliffs like Chet does?
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This blog post is sponsored by Visit Addison, TX.
When I received the invitation to visit a town with over 180 restaurants in 4.4 square miles – I jumped on it. And so this past weekend, my family took a road trip to Addison, Texas. Where is Addison you ask? Well, it’s right in the middle of the North DFW Metroplex. Just North of Dallas and somewhere in the middle of Carrolton, Richardson, and Plano. MAP HERE.
The first thing we did was EAT (that’s also the last thing we did, but we’ll get there). We started at Texas de Brazil, a meat-parade-style steakhouse that started in Addison in 1998 and now has over 60 locations worldwide. Oh man was it great.
That evening we checked into our hotel at the Renaissance Dallas-Addison. I’ve got five kids, so finding a hotel room is difficult. When we checked in, they said the magic words…”presidential suite.” We stepped in and my kids lost their minds. There was a STAIRCASE in the hotel room. So, yes it was two stories tall. This hotel recently did a full multi-million dollar renovation during COVID and it’s quite amazing. The staff was super friendly as well.
The next morning we stopped by the Mary Kay World Headquarters, because, well, I’ve got girls and, little known fact, my wife sold Mary Kay while I was in law school. The museum is only open on weekdays, so we were limited to a pink photo shoot out front.
Next up – CHOCOLATE! A lot of Chocolate. We visited Yeli Chocolates and took a private chocolate class making Easter smash eggs that are chocolate on the outside but full of candy on the inside. Yeli Marshall (yes, YELI is her name) is a master chocolatier and made this so much fun. I’d recommend that anyone and everyone visit. My kids were enthralled the entire time. She also hosts whiskey/chocolate classes. Note to self for next time – leave the kids at home. 🙂
After stuffing our faces with chocolate, we needed to burn off some energy and so we headed to Addison Circle Park. The park had plenty of space to run around and a splash pad. Miraculously we kept our kids out of it and picked up some lunch from the nearby Latin Deli and had a good ol’ fashioned picnic.
The afternoon was spent at the Cavanaugh Flight Museum ogling over the amazing historic planes and reading stories of men and women who’ve kept our country safe. I’ve toured a handful of fight museums and this was absolutely one of the best. They do private flights in WWII warbird planes and I’m dying to come back and fly.
With so many choices for dinner, it was tough to decide where to eat. But we say the packed parking lot at Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse and knew it was the spot. The cajun decor and zydeco music made me feel transported back to my hometown in Southeast Texas. Lucky for us, it’s crawfish season and we went to town! Legitimately some of the best crawfish I’ve ever had. As a Nate’s twist, you can order a bowl of “JP Juice” (butter + good stuff) for dipping.
For brunch on Sunday, we rolled into Ida Clare and our eyes rolled back into our heads. Homemade biscuits. Chicken and Waffles. Duck Potato Hash. On the patio, live music filled the air as the “man-mosas” kept flowing. Which are WAY better than mimosas because they’ve got whiskey.
Overall – this trip was a blast. I’d recommend Addison for foodies, families, and anybody in between. I’ve only got 175 restaurants left to try. 🙂
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