RESTAURANT REVIEW
Texas Lil’s has been a fixture in Temecula Old Town for many years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s truly one of four must-see places in Old Town. When I walked in the door the smells of barbecue hit my nose instantly. I got a friendly greeting from Becky, who sat me in a cozy booth instantly.
Intrigued by the sign outside advertising the “best margaritas in town” for $5, I asked bartender Alisha what made them so good. “We put a lot of stuff” in them she told me. Each one is made fresh to order with tequila, lime juice, triple sec, sweet and sour and orange juice with a splash of soda. It comes served in a Mason jar on the rocks with a salted rim. I have to admit it was awfully tasty!
While enjoying my margarita I had a chance to look over Texas Lil’s extensive menu featuring categories like ‘greener pastures’, ‘Lone Star steaks’, ‘burgers’, ‘fishy things’ and more. You can’t miss the photo of Becky’s dog “Lil” pointing out the “K-9” menu! Dogs are welcome on the patio with their humans who can select a grilled chicken breast, ¼ or ½ pound burger patty or a hot dog for their four-legged friends. Texas Lil’s serves brunch Saturday, Sunday and holiday Mondays with everything from omelettes to Mexican to pancakes.
I settled on the ribs and chicken combo. For $18.99 it comes with your choice of baby back or beef ribs, a quarter herb-roasted chicken, French fries and freshly made Cole slaw. The baby back ribs were fall off the bone tender and covered with a very tasty and tangy sauce. The chicken was moist and smoky. The fries were cooked to a golden crisp on the outside and soft in the middle and the slaw was delicious. The presentation on this plate as well as everything else I saw being served was lovely. It’s clear everything is made to order and presented with pride.
Texas Lil’s has a definite “down-home” feel to it and they cater to everyone from young families with kids to business professionals to seniors. In the parking lot you’ll find everything from Mercedes to Harleys. If you want to eat outside and soak in the ambience of Old Town, you’ll find tables with big umbrellas providing shade and misters to cool you off during these dog days of summer.
Next time you’re in Old Town, find your way to Texas Lil’s. The staff will make you feel right at home and the food will make your tummy happy. You’ll leave satisfied and with a smile on your face and the prices are quite reasonable.
