Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Meal of the year! I had looked up top 10 chickens fried steaks for the great state of Texas, short version it brought us here and I'm glad it did!
Upon arrival we were greeted with so many friendly hosts, the place was an amazing blend of history and modern rustic somehow. Excellent outdoor views and seating. Easily could go here to not eat.
Now the food, I knew what I came for but wow many great options on the menu made it tougher than I thought. So we did appetizers! Huge portions of amazing chips and dip all fresh and greatly done, plus onion rings were Texas sized, definition of huge for sure! Main event was lightly battered like the rings.
We were so full we took dessert to go which was also amazing. I can't even try to give a bad comment because it was all so good from host to service to ambience to satisfaction.
Go here!
Oh, also parking we got lucky as there was a new years event nearby but it was busy around for that. Id suggest going early if concerned about that.

What a great menu! Great service and an amazing atmosphere with a totally cool layout. Now we went in November so we were totally comfortable. We got there on a Tuesday at 2 PM and still had to wait. I can’t believe what it would be like in season at moon! The jalapeño margarita was the BOMB! I can’t believe this drink isn’t everywhere. Cajun spice on the rim and fresh jalapeños in the drink. Supreme!

It's a must to stop here when visiting Gruene.

Atmosphere is spectacular, but the best is to eat outside while watching the sunset in the valley. That is priceless!

Food is delicious. Texas size onion rings are special and the Top Sirloin is something to repeat.

Service is a bit slow, they take too much time to bring you the order but they are very friendly and attentive.

Highly recommended place!

Friendly staff, very good food, and a cool atmosphere. My wife and I both had the chicken fried steak with gravy - I had the fries on the side and she had the mashed potatoes. We both thought the steak was well-prepared and tasty, with a very good breading on it. It's easy to see why this is a favorite dish here. My wife thought the mashed potatoes would have more garlic flavor based on the menu description but they still tasted good.

Portions were large - we probably could have split an entree and been fine but decided we wouldn't mind some leftovers and are glad we got our own plates.

We also left room for dessert and the Jack Daniels Pecan Pie really hit the spot. I thought the chocolate chips, while not necessary, complimented it well. My wife thought it needed more chocolate based on its description.

We had been told prices were a bit high but we didn't think so. If we're near Gruene again, we'd like to go back and try some other dishes since everything coming to the tables around us looked great.

If you are looking for a very special restaurant with wonderful food, excellent Texas ambience, great view of the river, look no further. When I want to celebrate a special event occasion or take out of town guests too, I think of this wonderful hidden gem of a restaurant. Great food and reasonable prices and wonderful wait staff. Highly highly recommend!! Also while you are in the area, take advantage of the shops in Gruene and possible live music. While there, we heard live bands playing blues music. Wonderful area to explore!