Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q, Leon Springs, Texas

Poncho and Lefty drove more than 1300 miles with one thing in mind – trying some real Texas ‘Q. Both had heard of the wonders of Texas beef brisket, but had never tasted the real deal, cooked the real way, and in the real place. So off they headed to Leon Springs, Texas just outside of San Antonio, to visit a good pal and try some authentic Texas-style Bar-B-Q.

If you’re looking for the real deal, Rudy’s is it. Attached to a gas station and convenience store, the atmosphere at Rudy’s was all that Poncho and Left had hoped for. There was a wonderful open-air seating area (it never gets cold or wet enough in San Antonio to worry about the weather). Guests sit around a wood-burning fire that also serves to smoke Rudy’s famous meats.

Don’t get in line until you’re sure you know how things work. You’ll need to grab a long neck bottle of your favorite ale or soft drink out of the metal tub on your way to the counter, and you’d better be ready to place your order once you make it to the front of the line.

For the Georgia pair, Texas brisket was new experience. A lot like roast beef, only smokier and spicier, both Poncho and Left were impressed. They learned that Rudy’s meats are rubbed with spices and smoked over a slow burning oak fire. The “sauses” get added later on the side.

You can take some of Rudy’s Rub home with you. Poncho and Lefty highly recommend that you be sure to pick up a jar on your way out the door.

Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q
24152 W. IH 10
San Antonio, TX 78257
(210) 698-2141
http://www.rudys.com/

Galveston Island State Park, Galveston, Texas

As Poncho and Lefty drove along the coast from Louisiana to Texas, they planned to drive to Galveston Island to visit the state park. Their drive was delayed due to the fact that Hurricane Katrina removed many of the ferries from the area. By the time they made it to Galveston, it was late and the town was beginning to close down. There were no staff available at the park, so they filled out the late check in form and took their pick of the few empty spots. They where unable to get a visual on the park, as it was late and most of the other camping residents had retired for the night.

They used the lights of the Freestyle to brighten their spot long enough to set up their tent and settle in for the evening. Their only visitor this evening was a calico cat that they seemed to have disturbed from her evening rest. Once their site was set up, Lefty cooked a few camp fire pizzas while Poncho situated their sleeping space. The winds from the gulf were so strong they actually had to set up a tarp to shelter the cooking area to keep the stove lit. After supper they immediately turned in for the night.

The next morning the sun warmed their tent and the breeze from the ocean was strong and refreshing. It was not until they stepped from the womb of the tent that they were able to actually appreciate the park. There were hardly any trees in sight, though each site had a concrete structure to provide shelter for its picnic table. The Gulf of Mexico was less than a 100 yards from any of the camp sites. Poncho and Lefty made their way to the beach and were greeted with many smiles from their new neighbors. A few stopped wanting to share stories of their travels.

Needless to say Poncho and Lefty had a wonderful yet short stay at the park. The visitors center with is unique architecture was nice and the staff were all very helpful. Poncho and Lefty highly recommend this state park for an overnight stay. The bath houses were clean and tidy. Though watch your toes in the shower stalls, Lefty did see a fiddler crab escaping as he was freshening up.

Galveston Island State Park can be found at:

14901 FM 3005 Rd

Galveston, TX 77554

www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/galveston

409-737-1222