The day felt hotter than a dry sauna in Hell but that didn’t stop us from getting some fishing done on the Blanco River. Tired and extremely thirsty, we hauled ourselves to The Leaning Pear, a local eatery in Wimberley, for a bit of rest and a quick bite to eat. We instantly found a seat and our waitress appeared ready to take our drink order. Dad jumped at the mention of fresh limeade; I was more skeptical but decided to try it nonetheless. This wasn’t your usual limeade. It was freshly picked, recently squeezed and served up in a cool perspiring glass. Hands down it was the most refreshing drink I’ve ever had.
Their menu is a subtle blend of fine culinary art, and Texas Hill Country style comfort food. Typical items featured regularly are the Cuban style Pulled Pork and Caprese Panini Sandwiches, each served fresh with homemade kettle chips. The Pear’s daily specials are constantly updated and they are in limited supply so arriving early would ensure that you actually get to try one of their fabulous creations. Here are a few teasers just to get you excited: Chicken Fried Bandera Quail, Gulf Coast Black Drum Fish Tacos, Roasted Hatch Chili and Smoked Gouda Bisque.
Dad hoggishly ordered his second limeade. I decided to curb my enthusiasm (They are 2.50 a pop) and instead began taking in the décor of the room. The original structure was called the Lowery House, and it is among some of the oldest buildings in Wimberley. I found myself instantly relaxing in a bath of cool greens, and mellow yellows, which are the primary colors used in their decorating.
And then the people came…
Hoards of people all clamoring for an available table and given the size of the restaurant, there were none to be had in a relatively short period of time. Dad and I had literally beat the crowd in (and that never happens). Now I understood how The Pear could still be in business even with their extremely limited hours of operation. You practically had to draw a lottery ticket to even have a chance of getting a seat before the food ran out!
In two shakes of a lamb’s tail our lunch was served! Dad had ordered the daily special; I took a more cautionary route with a B.B.L.T. Plus I’m a sucker for applewood-smoked bacon, and the French Brie, although unusual, was intriguing. My first bite into the perfectly toasted focaccia bread was sensational. The bacon was thick and not too crispy and the Brie complimented the sandwich by adding a creamy texture to this very crunchy creation. I can’t speak for the special Dad ordered, but I assume it was amazing because he wouldn’t give me a single bite! His arm provided a respectable blockade that even my fork couldn’t penetrate. Nonetheless I was coveting his dish from afar which looked equally just as delectable as mine had been.
In Summary a meal for two costs about $25 including non-alcoholic drinks, which was quite reasonable, given the experience I had rivaled 5 star restaurants in Los Angeles. But unlike LA, celebrity status will not aid you in reserving a seat at this establishment. If you want to dine at The Leaning Pear you’re just going to have to pre-plan your visit and most likely be prepared for a bit of a wait. Don’t be deterred by this notion, the experience is well worth the effort!
Webpage
Facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Leaning-Pear/163385440356795
Follow their daily specials on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/leaningpear
