A Taste of Home: The Hungry Horse Restaurant in Boerne, Texas

The Hungry Horse Restaurant was dimly lit. Tables had been pushed aside to make room for a dance floor. Beer was packed on ice. The band, Morning, was about to kick off the night. We always managed to get a table in front and center. Dr. Bud, my orthodontist and Morning’s lead singer, jumped from chair to table to chair, his tennis shoes sticking to the vinyl red-and-white checkered tablecloths, slick with spilled beer. He sang classic rock like gospel. Every time Morning played at the Horse, my family was there. Those nights are some of the best memories of my childhood.

That’s what The Hungry Horse is for me. Southern comfort food, music, laughter, family, friends—and the best bran muffins I’ve ever had. I’d sit there torn between the Chicken Fried Chicken and the Bean Burger, always washing it down with something orange and carbonated. Back then, the Hungry Horse had two locations in San Antonio. One closed. The other moved to Boerne, Texas, not far from the Alamo City, but far enough to feel like its own world.

Boerne’s grown fast. It’s known for antiquing, microbreweries, German heritage, and the Hungry Horse, a family-owned, southern-style eatery that’s become a local institution. Everyone in and around Boerne knows it. The portions are massive. The comfort is real. The Chicken Fried Steak is the most popular item, followed by the Chicken Fried Chicken. But my favorite is the Bean Burger: beef, beans, Fritos, cheddar cheese. It’s messy, unapologetic, and perfect.

Some people stop in just for pie. Others order a dozen bran muffins to go. The catering menu rivals fine dining, and I still think about the Chicken Tenders with Poblano Cream Sauce like they’re a memory I haven’t quite lived yet.

The owner’s name is Steve. My family moved down the street from him when I was seven. His family became ours. I practically grew up at The Hungry Horse. Bussing tables and washing dishes was my first job. Much of what I understand about generosity, indulgence, and the joy of eating without apology came from that place.

The Hungry Horse doesn’t have the healthiest menu. But every time I go back to Boerne, it doesn’t feel like home until I walk through those doors. Steve takes care of his employees. He takes care of his customers. He’s a community pillar, and the restaurant he built has helped shape the identity of this Hill Country town.

You can’t really experience Boerne until you’ve eaten at the Hungry Horse. So, when you stop by, say hello to Steve for me. And don’t forget the bran muffin.