Alli Talley

February 22, 2021

Lubbock, Texas - Bring The Whole Family!

Alli Talley

February 22, 2021

Way back in 2019, we hopped in our Prius and took a road trip across the country. We hit the wide open road with our trusty dog Sally, and headed to West Texas. We spent four days eating incredible food, drank plenty of chiltons (IYKYK), and found as many puppy-friendly adventures as possible.

How our lives have changed.

A new year, a new car, a new pandemic, a new kid… ha! 2020 was a whirlwind, and we were craving a little normalcy. Why not head back to some of our favorite destinations with the whole family?

In November we hopped back in the car, with a few more bags, and headed back to our beloved Lubbock. And although we were in the midst of Covid-19 (right in between spikes), we found the same charm and flavor as our last visit. Whether you’re driving from California or somewhere in Texas, Lubbock is an amazing spot for the whole family. Here are some of our favorite Lubbock locales, including a few new names since our last visit!

STAY

While there are plenty of solid hotel options in Lubbock, they really upped their game in 2020 with the addition of the Cotton Court. The Cotton Court is part of the Valencia Hotel Group, a small chain of laid back, trendy hotels that are scattered around Texas and California. Spread out over acres of landscaped courtyards, the Cotton Court has a stunning pool, lawn games, space for live music, fire-pits, and outdoor dining. Perfect for families! (And they are SUPER pet-friendly!)

And the rooms! They incorporate luxury, local style, and hip design… and they’re incredibly spacious. Smeg refrigerators, comfy beds, cool light fixtures… we could’ve stayed so much longer!

Love the design, the space, and the SNACKS!

EAT

When we talk about Lubbock, we’re most often reminiscing on Evie Mae’s BBQ. This popular family-run establishment gave us a new appreciation for BBQ, and we go back every time we are in town! When you go, try a little bit of everything… but our favorite is the brisket! (And don’t be scared of the line, it moves fast. And it’s SO WORTH IT.)

With the pandemic still in effect, we had to get creative with a few of the new spots we tried while we were in town. We had Thai Pepper’s to-go in our hotel room, and it was so tasty! The wait was long, but again, totally worth it. Another new favorite of ours is Dirk’s for fried chicken! We sat outside (due to Covid and Sally) and had a savory assortment of chicken, fries, green beans, and mashed potatoes. A true Texas feast!

If it’s your first time in Lubbock, we’d say you can’t miss La Sirena Cocina and the Funky Door. At La Sirena Cocina you can indulge in scrumptious latin-fusion plates and a variety of “coctel artesenales” (we recommend the ones with tequila!). We love the salsa trio, the crispy brussel sprouts, and the chicken pot pie! If you want to get adventurous with your cocktail, try the “Last of the Oaxacans”. The Funky Door has INCREDIBLE fondue and tasty burgers. They currently have a “Quarantine Essentials” menu with great deals on both food and drinks. When life heads back to normal, it’s a perfect date night spot for a delicious meal and soothing live music.

A trip to Lubbock without a trip to Evie Mae’s would be a disaster…

DRINK

If you’ve been following us for awhile, you know that there are two types of drinks in our book… coffee and alcohol. For coffee, we were obsessed with Yellow House Coffee, Gold Stripe and Sugar Brown’s on our first trip to Lubbock. We visited them all again this time around, and loved the new “Lobby by Sugar Brown’s” that was a 2 minute walk from our room at Cotton Court.

This time around we found two new coffee shops on the booming Lubbock scene— Monomyth Coffee and TOVA Coffeehouse. We said numerous times that Monomyth would be our spot if we were Lubbock locals. As I, Bobby, am a self-proclaimed coffee snob (I’m not proud of it, I just like good coffee), I was right at home at Monomyth. (Not among snobs, but really good coffee.) We went to TOVA one morning for breakfast and coffee, and loved the vibe and their mission - they’re a non-profit shop combating poverty in Lubbock and beyond. So cool!

For the afternoons and beyond, there are two breweries that can’t be missed. We enjoyed both The Brewery LBK and Two Docs Brewing on our last visit, and we will on our next as well. The Brewery LBK has really good beer and is a solid date night spot if you order food from the West Table (or start at the brewery and end at the West Table). Their wraparound patio is also perfect for dogs or loud babies (hehe, our reality now). Speaking of being outdoors, Two Docs is a perfect spot for craft beer, four-legged friends, and the whole family. Two Docs consistently has a solid variety of beers on tap and rotating food truck partners serving up unique street food.

If you’re more of a wine-o, head to Burklee Hill or McPherson Cellars. We got lunch and a bottle of wine to-go from Burklee Hill one afternoon, and the club sandwich was one of the highlights of our trip. Their dry rosé was easy-drinking and perfect to enjoy outside our room while Jude napped. We didn’t have a chance to get to McPherson Cellars on this trip, but may still have a bottle of Mouvédre from last year - we brought a few home :) We’ve also heard English Newsom Cellars is a must for next time… we’ll be there!

Note - all of the above restaurants, breweries, and wineries have Covid-safe protocols that make them accessible and safe in this new reality we live in. From takeout to socially distant patios, they have taken steps that made us feel safe during our time in Lubbock.

The whole fam at Two Docs… I think Sally had some beer ha.

If you’re in the mood for shopping, we are big fans of Mountain Hideaway and California T’s. Bobby was obsessed with the clothing and adventure gear at Mountain Hideaway, while Alli LOVED all the color at California T’s. We both came home with plenty of souvenirs. If you’re in the mood for an afternoon of shopping local and capping it off with dinner, consider Cactus Alley. There you’ll find several local vendors, as well as Gold Stripe Coffee Roasters and La Sirena.

With a child under one, our list of things to do typically revolves around eating and drinking since they’re usually pretty easy to entertain. But soon enough we’ll be seeking out all the family friendly activities a destination has to offer. During this trip, we loved exploring At’l Do Farms! From the barnyard, to the cow train, to the corn maze (!), Jude was in heaven! Another activity that was great for little kids was Prairie Dog Town. Jude was totally zoned in as the little prairie dogs pop in and out of their holes… So cute!

If you have older kids, 4ORE Golf is such a fun spot to spend an afternoon. A driving range with serious technology, there are a variety of games you can play. And they have really yummy food! If you want to go the more educational route for an afternoon, the National Ranching Heritage Center will allow your family to immerse themselves in the Wild West. They have replicated houses and cabins where families can explore and really feel what it would have been like to live in that time. Definitely an upgrade from reading about it in a book...

If you’re traveling with a four-legged friend, Lubbock is very dog friendly! We have a whole blog that’s a guide to all the dog-friendly adventures Sally went on during her first time in Lubbock. This time, a highlight for her was running around Phil Hoel Park. And probably having a few nibbles of brisket from Evie Mae’s :)

Jude got over the maze and just wanted to play in the hay.

Contemplating if it’s worth jumping in :)

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a family and pets, Lubbock has something for you. The pandemic (and the newborn) slowed us down a little on this trip, so we’ll definitely be back again soon. We’ll be craving Evie Mae’s and Monomyth Coffee in no time!

Alli Talley

May 17, 2019

Texas, USA

Our Dog Friendly Guide to Lubbock, Texas

Alli Talley

May 17, 2019

Texas, USA

Road tripping through the US with Sally, our lovable little bernedoodle has been quite the adventure. It’s what we would imagine traveling with a toddler would be like - lots of “potty breaks”, frequent nap times, the occasional stop to “get the wiggles out”... you get the picture. We’ve also learned that some towns are more dog friendly than others. One place that has really impressed us with their dog-friendly options is Lubbock, Texas. Honestly, if Sally could talk she’d already be begging us to take her back!

Here’s our Dog Friendly Guide to Lubbock, Texas. You can rest assured that all of these places have been Sally approved!

ACTIVITIES:

Bruno Steel House: If you’ve read our previous blog about Lubbock, you’re already aware of how cool this home is. What we failed to mention is that it’s also a great place to bring your pup! Located above a sparkling lake in Ransom Canyon, there are nature trails nearby and plenty of areas for you and your dog to explore!

Wagner Park: One thing we LOVE about Lubbock (and Texas in general) is their abundance of spacious green parks. Wagner Park was one of our favorites, and we’re pretty sure it was Sally’s favorite too! Pack a picnic, bring a book (and maybe a squeaky ball), and you’ve got the makings for a perfect afternoon!

Texas Tech University: Texas Tech University is the nation’s second largest campus, which means there is a lot of space to walk and explore with your pup! There’s even an app (called Art Trek) that acts as your tour guide as you wander past the various artwork around campus. It tracks your location and can share about the 100+ pieces of art throughout the four campuses of the Texas Tech system. It’s a fun way to see the school, and exercise your fur baby!

Sally wishes our home had a view like this!

RESTAURANTS:

J’s Creamery: Does an all-natural frozen custard shop count as a restaurant? We sure think so! J’s Creamery is not only mouth-wateringly good cones, sundaes, splits and more, they also offer “Puppy Cones” for dogs! Better yet, they’re free with a purchase!

The Range: A driving range/restaurant/bar/outdoor games concept that’s dog friendly… does it get any better than that? The Range is really something special, and is truly fun for the whole family. Sally was so mesmerized by our golf strokes, that we almost forgot she was there!

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop: While we didn’t get a chance to go to Fuzzy’s (there was just too many restaurants to try!), Lubbock locals swear by this place. Praised for their chips and queso and crunchy tacos, Fuzzy’s outdoor patio is also a great dog-friendly option!

DRINKS:

The Brewery LBK: This modern, downtown brewery has a big wrap-around covered patio that’s perfect for warm, summer afternoons. You may even spot Mayor Dan Pope, who loves pups just as much as he loves a cold beer! Make sure you snap a pic if you do! ;)

Two Docs Brewery: At Two Docs Brewery, the atmosphere is just as amazing as their beer! Our favorite place to sit with Sally is on their outdoor patio - where you’ll find plenty of picnic benches and an area for cornhole!

The Garden: This lively craft beer garden has games, live music, and some of the best weekly specials in town. Not only that, but they love dogs! We spent an entire evening there, playing games, making friends, and relaxing with with Sally. It was fun for the whole family!

Sally had to read all the rules first :)

The Garden is a great spot to hang out for a drink!

This is just tapping the surface on all of the dog friendly places and activities in Lubbock. We’re sure to be roadtripping through again soon, and when we do, we’ll be sure to add to this list. In the meantime, we’d love to know what it’s missing! Feel free to leave a comment and let us know where we need to bring Sally next time we’re in town - and check out our Guide to Lubbock for more not-to-miss spots!

Alli Talley

May 17, 2019

Texas, USA

Lubbock, Texas :: Don't Underestimate This Gem of a Town

Alli Talley

May 17, 2019

Texas, USA

If you’ve been following along on Instagram, you probably know that we’re on a big cross-country roadtrip with our Bernedoodle, Sally. We’re two weeks in, and it’s been nothing short of a blast. Sure, we have our moments where we get really sick of driving, or where we ask ourselves “Why did we bring our dog again?” - but 98% of the time we’re loving it. ;)

Our first destination was Lubbock, Texas. Chances are you’ve heard about it before, but you probably don’t know much about it. If you’re like us, your first thought is that it’s “just another little town in Texas”, but we’re happy to report that Lubbock is indeed SO MUCH MORE. From an expanding culinary scene, to a lively and art-focused downtown, plenty of dog-friendly activities, a bustling nightlife… Lubbock is a town that needs to be on your radar. We’ll break it down for you:

THE FOOD SCENE IS TOP-NOTCH

If there’s one thing we learned from our time in Lubbock, is that you won’t leave hungry. (We honestly contemplated devoting this entire blog to what we ate!) This town is a foodie’s dream, and no matter what you’re craving, they’re making it and it’s good. We were blown away not only by the sheer amount of restaurants in Lubbock, but the quality of everything we enjoyed - and we never had to wait for a table, either! A few of our favorites were:

The Funky Door: Wine lovers, this is your place. With over 650 labels of wine, nightly live music and a diverse and decadent menu, The Funky Door is a must. Another must is the “Funky Door” Fondue and their homemade Squash Lasagna - Bobby’s still raving about it!

La Diosa Cellars: Eclectic, romantic, and cozy all in one, La Diosa Cellars is our pick for an intimate and unforgettable date night. Specializing in Spanish tapas and pitchers of mouth-watering sangria, their menu is every bit as eclectic as the decor. Be sure to try the “Sardinias”, broiled Spanish sardines “floating” in garlic butter. (This rec is coming from somebody (Alli) who hates sardines, and this dish won me over!)

Evie Mae’s Barbeque: Now, we’ve had our share of BBQ over the years, and we’re excited to report that Evie Mae’s is one of the best (if not THE best) we’ve ever had. Order the “#6”, which is a glorified sampler of every meat they serve and two sides. People come from all over to enjoy a delicious Evie Mae’s feast, so prepare to wait in line. But if you’re over 21, they have FREE beer for while you wait. No brainer…

La Sirena Cocina: Lubbock locals call it “Latin-Fusion”, we call it “Really-Delicious”. Head to La Sirena Cocina yourself, order the Fried Avocado Tostada, The Kale Salad, and the Stacked Enchilada, and let us know what YOU call it! We’d be there weekly if we lived in Lubbock!

Holly Hops Ice Cream Shop: Bring your poodle skirts, leather jackets, and your cameras! We’re pretty sure you can’t find a cuter 1950’s-style ice cream shop than Holly Hops, with its retro decor, drool-worthy menu, and picture-perfect presentation. It’s like stepping back in time!

Incredible views and SO much wine at The Funky Door

Incredible appetizers at La Diosa Cellars

Here’s a close up of our INCREDIBLE spread

We may have eaten all of this. Don’t judge.

THERE’S A LOT TO DO

“Ok, so there’s a lot of good dining options in Lubbock, but what do you do besides eat?”

We’re so glad you asked. Just like there’s a plethora of restaurants in town, Lubbock has a plethora of activities - and it’s rich in history, too. Whether you’re there for a weekend or a week, you most definitely won’t run out of things to do. Here’s some spots that shouldn’t be missed:

The Bruno Steel House: Robert R. Bruno Jr. was a famous inventor, artist, and businessman, who in the early 1970’s began construction on a whimsical steel house in Ransom Canyon - just about 20 minutes outside of Lubbock. He lived and worked on his home until he passed away in 2008, and while it remains unfinished, it’s an architectural masterpiece nonetheless.

The Range: If you’re like us, you enjoy hitting up your local driving range from time to time. Well, imagine a driving range that’s dog friendly, has a full bar, woodfired pizzas, and outdoor games! They have specials every day of the week, our favorite being $3 margaritas on Wednesdays! (Another local range is “4ore”, which is more like Top Golf - we’d definitely check this spot out next time too!)

Texas Tech University: At 1,839 acres, Texas Tech University is the nation’s second largest campus, and it’s absolutely beautiful. We spent an entire morning walking around the grounds of the campus, admiring the buildings and their wide array of public art sculptures. There’s even an app (called Art Trek) that acts as your tour guide as you wander past the various pieces. It tracks your location and can share about the 100+ pieces of art throughout the four campuses of the Texas Tech system. Such a fun way to see the school!

The Buddy Holly Center: You can’t go to Lubbock without visiting The Buddy Holly Center. This iconic musician, singer and songwriter who helped pioneer the 1950’s rock and roll movement was born and raised in Lubbock, and they have built an inspiring center in his honor. You can tour the museum filled with memorabilia (including the glasses he wore), visit his sculpture, and see the house where his band (The Crickets) recorded!

The National Ranching Heritage Center: A museum of ranching history, the National Ranching Heritage Center features fifty authentic ranch buildings dating from the late 18th to the mid-20th century. It’s absolutely fascinating and beautifully done, and one of the most intriguing museums we have been able to visit. (Plan on spending at least a couple of hours, it’s extensive and not something you’ll want to rush through!)

Nothing beats a day at the range with some good drinks

Sally was annoyed that she couldn’t chase the balls :)

Alli trying to rock out with Buddy Holly

Family photo in front of the Buddy Holly Center

Los Corralitos building (circa 1780) at the National Ranching Heritage Center

An steam locomotive at the National Ranching Heritage Center

COFFEE, BEER, AND CHILTON’S - A PLENTY

If you like to drink, you’ll LOVE Lubbock. From their array of coffee shops and breweries to their eclectic cocktail bars and welcoming wineries - there’s something for everyone in this charming town! Due to our short visit we weren’t able to experience them all, but a few of the ones we did get to experience are:

Yellow House Coffee: This cute and cozy little coffee shop is as hip as it is delicious. We loved their coffee, and we also loved their avocado toast!

Gold Stripe Coffee Roasters: The two brothers behind Gold Stripe Coffee Roasters know what they’re doing - their coffee is strong and silky-smooth, and their cappuccino is just as tasty as it is pretty!

The Brewery LBK: Located right in the heart of downtown Lubbock, The Brewery LBK has a fun and intriguing variety of craft beers. They also have a full bar - where we experienced our first “Chilton” (Lubbock’s specialty cocktail), consisting of vodka, lemon juice, and club soda!

Two Docs Brewing Co: We’d quickly become regulars at Two Docs if we were Lubbock locals. Not only do they make some quality ales, their outdoor patio is a blast! It’s the perfect place to go unwind after a long day, play a few games of cornhole, and enjoy a fine selection of craft beer.

The Garden: A lively craft beer garden with games, live music, and some of the best weekly specials in town. It’s a great place to meet up with friends, or make friends! On Wednesdays they have $1.50 Domestics and Wells… we’re pretty sure that’s cheaper than water!

McPherson Cellars: What used to be a Coca Cola bottling plant in the 1930’s is now the industrial-chic winery and tasting room of McPherson Cellars. Whether you schedule a guided tour of the winery, or simply pop by for a tasting, you’ll instantly feel right at home... And you’re bound to leave with at least a bottle or two!

The wine at McPherson Cellars was tasty!

IT’S AN ARTIST’S TOWN

You can’t drive through Lubbock for more than five minutes without passing a colorful mural or spotting some intriguing street art. It’s everywhere! There are plenty of galleries and museums to meander through, but if your time in Lubbock is short, here’s a few murals that you’ll most likely spot in town:

The “LBK” mural (painted by artist Joey Martinez, located at 1219 Ave. A)

The Lubbock, Texas/Sunrise Mural (located at 1106 5th St.)

LUBBOCK (painted by artist Joey Martinez, 1413 19th St.)

The Made in LBK (located at Sugar Brown’s Coffee - also a must-visit, 1947 19th St.)

IT’S AFFORDABLE

And you want to know what the BEST part of Lubbock is?! It’s affordability! Lubbock has almost everything that a bigger, more well-known city has, but at a much lower price point. From accomodations (we stayed at the Hyatt Place and loved it!), to restaurants and activities, you’ll spend a fraction of what you would in a metropolitan city.

A cozy place to rest our heads (Sally too!) while in Lubbock

Have we convinced you to visit Lubbock yet? We sure hope so. We can’t wait to return and see more of the sights, experience more of their growing culinary scene, and hug our friends that we made while we were there…. Road trip, anyone? ;)