Willow Lake Watering Hole and Mercantile — Restaurant in Wimberley

Emma and myself first visited Willow Lake in late May or early June of 2024. I don't remember what drew us there that night, the Stratocrackers probably came and got us.

It took over a month after their opening on April 8 2024 (the day of the Total Solar Eclipse!) for us to discover Willow Lake, but you can't get us out of there now. It felt like home that very first night. They're so pet friendly! Chloe and Greg love Emma and all pets so much; Emma has become an absolute mascot at Willow.

Willow is usually populated by many colorful (and a few notorious) locals. You can find them at the Bullshit Corner of the bar (there’s a bronze plaque there).

The music is always outstanding and crowd pleasing. Usually free. The best tacos (daily) and pizza (weekends) in Wimberley are made available on site by Luise at Un Mundo de Sabor and Conner at Oh My Pizza Pie! Dig in! Super affordable, as are the drink specials (happy hour-$1 off everything 12-7 daily)

Chloe Zen Glasscock had a vision when she and Greg McBride acquired the property. Check out the painting by (and gifted by) local artist Tim Liebrock on the fireplace mantel of this historic house as it appeared to Tim (and many others) in about 2015! Chloe, her daughter Rennie, son Ezra, Greg and local artist Brandon Massey helped implement Chloe’s vision masterfully! Rennie also contributed much in the vision department (I’m sure those 3 guys contributed here, as well) of what became Willow Lake Watering Hole and Mercantile. The decor is perfectly (though eclectically) suited to the rustic surroundings that Chloe and crew accentuated and augmented. Brandon Massey and myself have art on those historic walls all the time, plus many others.

Every 4th Friday Willow Lake hosts what has become the desired destination point of the monthly Wimberley Art Crawl! Galleries and shops all over town stay open late, 5-8pm ,many with free snacks and drinks, some with live music. But the festivities really start at Willow Lake! With live music beginning at 7:30, face painting, glitter tattoos, spin art and a playground and snake pit (JK) for the kids! And lots of guest artists filling the yard with tents and booths…and the festivities go into the night….at Willow Lake! Emma and I are proud to have been welcomed into this absolute family. It’s become our home away from home! Make it yours!

The overall atmosphere is absolutely astounding! Stop depriving yourself of this excellent kid and pet friendly venue in the heart...

My experience last night had me hydratin’ quite uh bit as my mouth was agape throughout my inaugural visit. No photographs would do this place justice. One has to be present in order to take in, not only the visual, but soak in the atmosphere of this latest (Greatest?!) addition to “downtown” Wimberley. From the ample parking to the enormous wraparound porch to the exquisitely designed, furnished, and accessorized interior (by Chloe, I understand) I was constantly, pleasantly, surprised and impressed by its quality, craftsmanship, and beautifully accessorized environment. What drew me in was the unmistakably recognizable alluring music generated by our very own local treasure, Bob Slaughter, who I’m sure will become a “Regular” performer here. And, based upon the initial lineup of very talented Musicians, this “Watering Hole” portends to be THE “Watering Hole” of The Texas Hill Country, and beyond! Congrats to all involved in its inception, design, and build. I’ve found my New Local Hangout! You will, too. Seeyuh there, Stanley...

We hosted our son’s wedding welcome party at Willow Lake Watering Hole and Mercantile in May 2025, and it was absolutely perfect. Owners Greg and Chloe went above and beyond to bring our vision to life for a 230-person celebration. The Jesse Stratton Band (with a fiddler added at the bride’s request!) played amazing music, the twinkle-lit outdoor pavilion was magical, and the bar service was top-notch all night.

As out-of-towners, we needed local help, and Greg truly delivered. He connected us with a rideshare driver (Chris) and even arranged late-night pizza delivery from Marco’s when nothing else was open. His response? “I’d want someone to do this for my daughter.”

This wasn't just a venue, it felt like being welcomed by good neighbors who genuinely cared. Thanks to Greg, Chloe, and their team, our weekend in Wimberley was...