Nestled in the heart of San Marcos, Texas, the Root Cellar Cafe stands as a culinary gem, offering a tantalizing fusion of fresh ingredients and unique flavors. From the moment you step through the doors, you’re greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
At the Root Cellar Cafe, the commitment to using only the finest locally-sourced ingredients is evident in every dish. The chefs meticulously craft each menu item, combining time-honored techniques with a touch of creative flair to deliver a truly remarkable culinary journey.
The menu at the Root Cellar Cafe is a testament to diversity, catering to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty entrée or a light and refreshing salad, the menu offers an array of options that are sure to delight. From classic favorites with a twist to innovative creations that push the boundaries of flavor, every dish is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Appetizers
Kick off your dining experience at the Root Cellar Cafe with a tempting array of appetizers that showcase the kitchen’s commitment to fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
The Beer Battered Asparagus Fries are a must-try, featuring tender asparagus spears coated in a crispy, golden beer batter that perfectly complements the vegetable’s natural flavors. Served with a tangy lemon aioli for dipping, this appetizer is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
For those seeking a comforting start to their meal, the Beer Bread with Honey Butter is a delightful choice. Freshly baked and infused with the subtle notes of beer, this warm bread is served with a creamy honey butter that melts deliciously over each slice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
The Cellar Salsa with Seasoned Tortilla Chips is a vibrant and flavorful option that celebrates the cafe’s commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The salsa is made daily with ripe tomatoes, fragrant onions, and a blend of zesty spices, served alongside crispy tortilla chips that are seasoned to perfection.
Indulge in a unique twist on a classic with the Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts. These bite-sized morsels are fried to a golden brown, creating a delightfully crispy exterior that gives way to a tender interior. Tossed in a tangy balsamic glaze and topped with shaved Parmesan, this appetizer is sure to convert even the most ardent Brussels sprouts skeptics.
Last but not least, the Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and indulgent starter that’s perfect for sharing. Freshly sautéed spinach and artichoke hearts are blended with a rich combination of cheeses, creating a decadent dip that’s served warm with crispy tortilla chips for dipping.
Pastas
The Root Cellar Cafe’s pasta dishes are a testament to their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Their housemade sauces and liberal use of fresh herbs elevate these dishes to a level of excellence that will tantalize your taste buds.
The Creamy Mac ‘n Cheese is a decadent twist on a classic, featuring a velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of premium cheeses, enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This dish is taken to new heights with the addition of crispy bacon bits and a panko breadcrumb topping, providing a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.
For those seeking a taste of Italy, the Cellar Carbonara is a must-try. This dish features al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and crispy pancetta. Fresh parsley and cracked black pepper add a burst of flavor, making this dish a true celebration of authentic Italian flavors.
The Shrimp Scampi is a seafood lover’s dream. Plump, juicy shrimp are sautéed in a garlic-infused butter sauce, with a hint of white wine and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Served over a bed of linguine, this dish is a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, leaving you craving more with every bite.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Pesto Pasta is a delightful choice. Freshly made basil pesto coats every strand of fettuccine, delivering a burst of herbaceous flavor. Toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan cheese add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, making this dish a true celebration of the finest ingredients.
House Specialties
The House Specialties at the Root Cellar Cafe are a true testament to their commitment to hearty, flavorful dishes with a unique twist. Leading the pack is the “Better Than Mom’s Meatloaf,” a comforting classic elevated to new heights. This meatloaf is crafted with a secret blend of spices and herbs, ensuring each bite is bursting with savory goodness. Served with a rich gravy and a side of creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to transport you back to your childhood while surprising your taste buds with its remarkable depth of flavor.
For those seeking a truly indulgent experience, the “Hand Cut Ribeye with Herbed Butter” is a must-try. This prime cut of beef is expertly grilled to your desired doneness and topped with a decadent herbed butter that melts over the steak, infusing it with a burst of aromatic flavors. Accompanied by a side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, this dish is a carnivore’s delight.
Last but not least, the “Steak & Eggs” is a breakfast-inspired masterpiece that defies traditional meal boundaries. A juicy, perfectly cooked steak is paired with two eggs prepared to your liking, crispy hash browns, and a side of buttered toast. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast or a unique twist on a classic dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Soups & Salads
At the Root Cellar Cafe, the soups and salads are a testament to the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that are the backbone of their menu. Each dish is a celebration of flavor and nutrition, crafted with care and attention to detail.
The Big Cellar Salad is a verdant masterpiece, featuring a vibrant blend of crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a medley of other seasonal vegetables. Topped with your choice of protein, such as grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp, this salad is a satisfying and nutritious meal in itself. The house-made dressing, a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, ties the flavors together harmoniously.
For those seeking a classic twist, the Cellar Caesar is a must-try. Crisp romaine hearts are tossed in a creamy, house-made Caesar dressing, infused with the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and anchovies. Topped with crunchy croutons and shaved Parmesan, this salad is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
Lastly, the Islander is a tropical escape in a bowl. A bed of mixed greens is topped with juicy mango, avocado, and a zesty pineapple salsa, creating a symphony of flavors that transport you to a sun-drenched island. Grilled shrimp or chicken can be added for an extra protein boost, making this salad a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Handheld Eats
For those seeking a delightful and portable meal, the Root Cellar Cafe’s handheld eats offer a tantalizing array of flavors and textures. The Caribbean Stacker is a culinary adventure, featuring a juicy jerk-seasoned chicken breast nestled between two fluffy cornbread waffles, topped with a zesty mango salsa and a drizzle of creamy jalapeño ranch dressing. Each bite bursts with a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, transporting your taste buds to the tropics.
The Holy Aioli is a sandwich lover’s dream, showcasing the cafe’s commitment to quality ingredients. Succulent slices of turkey and ham are layered with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all nestled between two halves of a buttery brioche bun. The star of the show, however, is the housemade garlic aioli, a rich and flavorful spread that elevates this sandwich to heavenly heights.
For those seeking a classic with a twist, the Brewhouse Burger is a must-try. A juicy, hand-pattied beef patty is grilled to perfection and topped with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a tangy root beer barbecue sauce. Served on a toasted brioche bun, this burger is a testament to the cafe’s dedication to creating unique and memorable flavors using the finest ingredients.
Beverage Menu
At the Root Cellar Cafe, the beverage menu is carefully curated to complement the flavors of the dishes and provide a well-rounded dining experience. The cafe takes pride in offering a diverse selection of locally-sourced and craft options, ensuring that every sip is as unique and flavorful as the food itself.
The beer menu features a rotating selection of craft brews from local and regional breweries, showcasing the best that Texas has to offer. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, there’s something for every beer enthusiast to enjoy. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal.
For wine lovers, the Root Cellar Cafe boasts an impressive wine list that spans a range of varietals and regions. Whether you prefer a crisp white to accompany your salad or a bold red to complement your steak, the carefully curated selection is sure to delight your palate. The cafe also offers a variety of locally-sourced wines, highlighting the talent of Texas winemakers.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more spirited, the Root Cellar Cafe’s cocktail menu is a true standout. Crafted with fresh ingredients and premium spirits, these unique concoctions are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic favorites to innovative creations, each cocktail is a work of art, expertly balanced and bursting with flavor.
Dietary Accommodations
The Root Cellar Cafe takes pride in catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re a committed vegan, a gluten-free enthusiast, or simply seeking healthier options, their menu offers a diverse selection to accommodate your requirements.
For those following a plant-based lifestyle, the cafe’s vegan offerings are both delicious and satisfying. Indulge in their flavorful vegan pasta dishes, where they skillfully combine fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs to create a symphony of flavors. Additionally, their vegan salads are a true delight, featuring a variety of crisp greens, vibrant veggies, and tantalizing dressings.
Gluten-free diners can rejoice in the cafe’s thoughtful and delectable options. From gluten-free pasta dishes to hearty salads and appetizers, the Root Cellar Cafe ensures that every bite is both flavorful and safe for those with gluten sensitivities or intolerances.
For those with other dietary restrictions or preferences, the cafe’s knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist. Whether you’re seeking dairy-free, nut-free, or low-carb options, they will happily guide you through the menu and make recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
The Root Cellar Cafe in San Marcos, Texas, offers a truly exceptional dining experience with its diverse and high-quality menu. From appetizers to house specialties, soups and salads to handheld eats, each dish is meticulously crafted using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and unique flavor combinations that tantalize the taste buds.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meatloaf, a juicy ribeye steak, or a delightful pasta dish, the Root Cellar Cafe has something to satisfy every craving. With their commitment to providing an unforgettable culinary journey, this cafe stands out as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and local residents alike.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the remarkable flavors and exceptional service that the Root Cellar Cafe has to offer. Visit their website at rootcellarcafe.com to explore the full menu, check out the latest specials, and make your reservations today. Experience the best that San Marcos has to offer and embark on a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget!