John Steinbeck famously said, “Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word.”
1845 Taste Texas, the new Lakeside upscale steakhouse and hot spot being raved about all over, not only serves up a fabulous dining experience, but restaurateurs Alan Mann and Marty Bryan have written a love letter to our great state with their latest collaboration. The restaurant name itself – 1845 - pays homage to the year, as Marty likes to say, “Texas annexed the rest of the United States.” Designed Like Dallas. Tastes like Fort Worth. This perfect mix is apparent the moment you walk through the doors and take in the gorgeous black, white, navy and gold decor.
Your five senses will be engaged in a way that elevates your dining experience. From the richness of the elegant velvet booths to the softer lighting and artwork that includes the regal Sir Loin watching over all patrons with his “Eyes of Texas” - no detail has been spared thought. Even the music being played has been meticulously chosen to incorporate only Texas born musicians across all genres and multi-generational in nature.
1845 Taste Texas is a modern steakhouse that expertly delivers classic, Cameron 44 Farms quality filets, and ribeyes, but will further engage your senses with new favorites such as the 30 oz smoked pork chop finished over an open flame and glazed with a spicy plum sauce. Compart pork belly is enveloped by a uniquely Texan Dr. Pepper glaze and Lockhart fried quail also is part of the eclectic Texan menu. Chicken fried steak is a popular dish along with blackened redfish and several salads and sandwiches.
Signature cocktails hold their own with a nod to Clyde Barrow and Jim Bowie, among other Texas icons. The first a Western Son’s Blueberry vodka, Lemon, Red Wine and Blueberries libation is sure to become as wanted as its namesake. The second cocktail is as stately as the Alamo hero himself with Oak & Eden Rye, Grapefruit, Agave, Jalapenos, and Rosemary. The cocktails are refreshing and carefully formulated to appeal to any taste and the beer and wine list will more than satisfy.
The 1845 menu has been carefully curated and local partners chosen who share a passion and vision similar to Marty and Alan’s own. Texas distilleries and 44 Farms out of Cameron, among others, have proven to be successful partners. Marty explains, “We serve food with integrity. Our goal is to put the best possible meal on the plate.” You may notice that salt and pepper are not on the tables and rarely does a patron request them. According to Alan, this is a reflection that, “The food is perfectly seasoned and prepared.” The key is buying the best ingredients available and preparing them in a savory and thoughtful way sure to delight the taste buds. The meats are organic – hormone and antibiotic free, humanely raised and only fed an all-natural diet.
Marty reflects, “Every restaurant must have a story. 1845 Taste Texas is authentic Texas. We want people to feel welcome and comfortable and that coming into the restaurant is an experience.” Often guests are celebrating a milestone or want to enjoy a special evening. 1845 delivers on every level – the food, the music, the décor. The restaurant also has two private rooms with WIFI and large screen TVs that seat up to 40 each or a combined 90, a terrific option for holiday outings, corporate dinners, engagement parties and the like.
Alan and Marty attribute the success they have enjoyed to date to the team they have built. Marty maintains, “Our people have a culture advantage. Some have worked with us over the years. We hire the right people and help them create and add value.” In addition, as owners, the duo have worked tirelessly to support and protect their team and customers particularly during COVID concerns. They’ve invested in special cleaning processes and supplies, but most importantly they meet folks where they are and do it in a way that does not disrupt their ability to serve their guests well.
If you are ready to check out 1845, while they do not take reservations, they do accept “call aheads” to put you on the list. If it’s a Thursday through Saturday ask for the patio where live music is also on menu. Prepare to be wowed and then thank all the stars in the Texas sky that 1845 Taste Texas calls Lakeside home.
2401 Lakeside Pkwy, Flower Mound
Hours:
Monday - Thursday 4pm -10pm
Friday & Saturday 4pm -11pm
Sunday 4pm-9pm