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Dine and Relax in Style at the Cotton Gin

© Eve Carr

Here's my test question for whether I like the accommodations I stay in when traveling: Would I like to return? In the case of the Cotton Gin in Fredericksburg, Texas, the answer is a definite yes. I recommend it highly because here you can relax in quaint accommodations-and dine on gourmet food as well.

I was especially pleased to find out that the Cotton Gin is owned and operated by Chef Russ Burtwell. I'm a definite fan of privately owned restaurants-especially by chefs themselves because these restaurants always seem a bit more homey, and I enjoy that.

My husband and I were quite pleased with the menu selections, which featured everything from escargot to pan-fried catfish. The wine list is extensive, with over 60 wines, and it included wines from the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The Toasted Pecan Crusted Breast of Chicken comes with a luscious Creole mustard cream sauce, and there are plenty of choices when it comes to Texas-sized steaks.

Service was outstanding--very professional and friendly and most efficient. I made a note to myself that the next time I came to Fredericksburg, Texas, that I would make it a point to try their luncheon buffet, which everyone was raving about.

More than Just Great Dining

Breakfast for those who stay at the Cotton Gin is a magical affair. The mini refrigerator in your room is always stocked with juices, bottled water, and milk, as well as fresh fruit platters and yogurt sundaes. Every day, a new basket of sweet and savory pastries magically appeared so we could enjoy them at breakfast the next day-or munch on them as a snack. A homey jar of granola and more fruit and even popcorn were always on the table.

With our own coffeemaker and microwave, we had a complete meal. This is especially nice if you have an early return flight home. There's no need to miss breakfast, and you can have a delicious one as well. Now, the best part of all is that all of these edibles in your room are free for you to enjoy.

Actually, the breakfast and restaurant are not the only great things about staying here. The cabins themselves offer great privacy and, since they are authentic historic cabins, dismantled and moved here from other locations, you can step back in time.

The cabins are unique and decorated with real antiques. Our cabin, the Pedernales, for example, featured an assortment of crocks, washboards and other household items. When you look at the antique washer on your porch, you really appreciate modern amenities.

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