Downtown Grapevine

By Faith Wright, Travel Advisor

Whether you are looking for unique places to eat, a variety of spots to sip on something, or ample stores to shop til you drop, Downtown Grapevine has it for you! 

On my most recent trip to Downtown Grapevine in November 2021, I ate at a fabulous place called Main Street Bistro & Bakery. While scrumptious pastries and coffee can be ordered walk-up style in one entrance of the building, the other entrance is for Chez Fabien Bistro. A long wooden bar, funky decor, exposed brick and stunning arches will greet you as you walk in. Shortly after you will experience the wonderful smells of an array of breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner options. 

First thing first - drinks. The wine and beer selection is impressive, but the cocktails are the real gemstone of the menu. I ordered the 316 S. Martini, a stunner of a drink consisting of Deep Eddy vodka, Chambord liqueur, pineapple juice, prosecco and a raspberry garnish. It was a SERIOUS cocktail, especially for brunch time, but it was worth every full, complex, delicious sip. Needless to say, one was enough even for this Olympic day drinker.

As a vegetarian, I know how tiresome is to constantly be ordering a salad or grilled cheese off the menu as those are your only available options. Not so with Chez Fabien Bistro! I ordered a mushroom ravioli with the richest, creamiest sauce complemented with three generous slices of delightfully crispy garlic bread. I left feeling satisfied, not uncomfortably stuffed, and feeling I had treated my palette to an extraordinary experience. Other items we sampled included light and airy waffles, delightfully crunchy fish & chips, and chocolate chip pancakes complete with extra chocolate chips to add on top. 

After you have enjoyed an amazing meal, time to walk it off by doing some shopping! Downtown is full of little craft, trinket and specialty shops where you can wander, stroll, browse and discover something surprising and unique. Places for fun snacks, candy and beverages are there for a pick-me-up as you need it. 

Before you leave, be sure to sit for a minute in the park area. Use the time to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Downtown Grapevine. Take a moment to reflect on what was your favorite part, what you didn’t get to that is going on your list for next time, and what upcoming events were advertised. 

With all Downtown Grapevine has to offer, you are sure to have been enriched by your travels.