Muenster’s charm abounds, from its clean streets to manicured lawns and gardens, to its restaurants and gift shops, right up to the melodic glockenspiel atop Fischer’s Meat Market. But nowhere is Muenster’s heritage as apparent than in its restaurants and delis. Fischer’s offers more than 30 varieties of German sausage, plus condiments such as spicy Düsseldorf mustard and the market’s own private label preserves and relish. Fischer’s huge selection of cheeses pleases, too. Fischer’s also sells authentic German confections and products, including Maggi Späetzle and Schlunder Black Forest Cake.
Those craving more German fare can find it at eateries such as Doc’s Bar & Grill on Main Street, or The Center Restaurant & Tavern and Rohmer’s Restaurant (both on US 82, which runs through town).
Doc’s, once a doctor’s clinic and now a rustic tavern decorated with nostalgic advertising memorabilia (like an old Queen-O Quality Sparkling Beverage sign), displays dozens of photos of babies born there, thus adding to the preservation of local history. The German sausage platter—bratwurst and other German sausage, sauerkraut, and rye bread, plus homemade German potato salad and sweet cabbage makes for a Bavarian feast.
A German mood prevails at Rohmer’s, too. Try the Reuben sandwich with a dish of German potato salad and you’ll understand why the eatery has been popular since 1953.
At The Center, which dates to 1958, recommendations are for the jager schnitzel (a pork cutlet with sauteed mushrooms and gravy), followed by a slice of one of their homemade coconut-cream or chocolate pies, or their famous German chocolate cake.
For a special dessert treat, I like to visit Bayer’s Kolonialwaren und Backerei, a small combination bakery-confectionery-gas station that has been a part of the town since 1964. Although current owner John Pollard’s strudel is the only authentic German delicacy among his line of baked goods, it’s one of the best we’ve ever eaten: This treat, a soft flaky pastry topped with powdered sugar, comes in a choice of 11 fruit and/or cheese fillings.
With a dozen colorful murals, a Main Street museum, a popular antiques mall, and a recent profusion of modern wind turbines, this small Texas community prides itself on welcoming visitors.
