A New Restaurant in Town

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The last thing our friends told us as we said goodbye was, “Did you know that Los Olivos is now a restaurant—not just a wine tasting venue?”

I didn’t know, but when my sister and I decided to have lunch together two days later, I knew I needed to find out more. To begin, I made phone calls ensuring they were open for lunch on Wednesdays.

So today, at 11:45, we pull into a parking space in front of Los Olivos, exit the car and walk toward what will become a foodie adventure. We grab two menus, seat ourselves at a table tucked in a corner, and I get lost in memories of Spain and Italy and more.

The Los Olivos Menu

The list of offerings states clearly that the appetizers are SHAREABLES and that the entrees are FAMILY STYLE. That should have been an indication of what was to come, but blissful in our ignorance, we begin our mental list of wants.

With a menu both eclectic and inviting, leaning toward the food of southern Europe, I can’t help but remember past trips to foreign shores. I can taste the flavors of Pan Tomate, grilled bread with a fresh tomato emulsion, and a kiss of garlic. Pan Tomate is a staple of Spanish cuisine; many Spaniards have it for breakfast and it is available all day at many restaurants. Other shareable options include ingredients such as seared scallop, truffle, tartare, foie gras, Marcona almonds, fontina, and asiago. There is chicken karaage—a Japanese favorite—chunks of crispy fried chicken with sweet chili, cilantro, local pickles, and aioli.

There is so much that is exotic and enticing that I’m trying to remember that I am sitting in a restaurant in Wimberley, Texas. Los Olivos appears to be the bee’s knees. Before we have even selected what we will eat for lunch, I am planning my next visit.

Finally, we make our way to the counter and place our order; while waiting our turn, I can’t help but peruse all of the imported Spanish items for sale: oils and vinegars and spreads, and so much more.

Lunch

While sipping my chilled French rosé, our food is set before us a selection at a time. My sister instructs me to help myself to some of her Caesar salad which is generous enough for four people to share as a side salad, but it is so good I would want to keep it all to myself. I’m grateful she decides to share. The menu specifies LO Caesar dressing as one of the ingredients; this dressing and the generous sprinkling of asiago cheese must be what makes this Caesar one of the best I have eaten in a restaurant lately. I need to check their gourmet food selections more carefully when we leave.

Appetizer

The Pan Tomate tastes like an afternoon in Spain; all the flavors I remember are in every bite. Los Olivos’ interpretation of the dish is the bonus topping of paper-thin slices of Jamón Serrano—Michael’s favorite. I can’t wait to bring him here to try Pan Tomate the Los Olivos way.

Entrées

There is an entrée available for the vegetarian in your life, and once again, I am lucky enough that my sister offers me a bite. Billed as Seared Butternut Squash with caramelized potato gnocchi, truffle Marcona-thyme olive oil, and chile roasted onions, the skin of the squash is blackened; the golden interior is sweet and smooth, and for a vegetable, it is decadent. I think it would make a terrific side dish to share. Once again, the serving is huge!

I placed my order for Sticky Chipotle Salmon with trepidation. I love salmon, but lately I have been disappointed so many times by most restaurants. However, the promise of tropical pico and red chile glaze won me over, and the taste seals the deal. Everything I eat is delightful, and it was truly serendipitous that I discovered there was a new restaurant in town.

And Then There is Schnitzel

Tilting my glass of rosé one last time, I realize that it is also time we are on our way. We walk toward the exit, stopping to speak to Dakota Serrato, the Digital Marketing Manager. While chatting, a plate piled high with delicious-looking food is delivered to the table across from us.

“What is that?” The words fall from my mouth. Schnitzel, I discover. I love schnitzel—I must put it on my to-try list.

Passing the couple with the mountain of schnitzel before them, I ask if it is good. I receive four thumbs up. We comment on the quality of the food, and I learn that they too are locals. As we begin our trek to the door, the husband tells us, “Los Olivos will be getting a lot of our money in the future.” I nod in agreement.

Yes, everything that I have tasted here today is delicious and exceptional.

Los Olivos

In the spring of 2018, a father-daughter team with roots stretching across the pond from Spain, Rafael and Rebecca, and a ranch in Texas purchased Taste Buds Market in Wimberley. By June, the doors to Los Olivos were open, and the rest is recent history. This father and daughter’s vision for Los Olivos is a place for people to congregate who love music and good food.

Not only is there a Los Olivos in Wimberley but Rafael and Rebecca also opened marketplace-restaurants in Buda and Harlingen, with another one soon to be opened in Dripping Springs.