Routes, Drive Times & Road Tips to Big BendBig Bend sits deep in far West Texas. Whether you’re coming from El Paso, Midland/Odessa, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, or Dallas/Fort Worth, choose the route that matches your arrival town and the part of the park you want...
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Alpine, Texas Food and Drink
Reata Restaurant
Reata Restaurant is the original location of what has become a celebrated Texas culinary institution, offering fine dining in Alpine since 1998. The name (Spanish for rainbow) reflects both the stunning mountain views that surround the restaurant and the colorful, vibrant cuisine that has made Reata a destination for food lovers from across the state and beyond. With 1,233 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate on Facebook, Reata has earned its place among the top restaurants in West Texas.
OpenTable reviewers consistently praise the experience, with one noting, ‘We love Reata!’ Another guest commented on the ‘great dining experience’ and highlighted the ‘outstanding service.’ The restaurant’s reputation for quality dining has attracted locals, travelers, and celebrities who appreciate the commitment to excellence.
At a Glance
Location
203 N 5th St, Alpine, Big Bend Texas
Alpine’s Premier Dining Destination
Reata occupies a prominent position on North 5th Street in downtown Alpine, occupying a historic building that has been thoughtfully restored. The dining room features exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and western artwork that create an atmosphere balancing elegance with the relaxed sensibility of West Texas. Large windows frame views of the surrounding Davis Mountains, particularly striking at sunset when the peaks take on dramatic colors.
Legendary Texas Cuisine
Reata’s menu celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Texas and the American Southwest with refined preparations and premium ingredients. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its Southwestern cuisine that blends Mexican, Native American, and ranching traditions into a distinctive regional style. Signature dishes include tortilla soup (available by cup or bowl), bacon-wrapped shrimp with onion jam, and jalapeno and cilantro soup that showcase the kitchen’s command of bold flavors.
A Texas Culinary Institution
Founded in 1998, Reata Restaurant grew from a vision of celebrating West Texas heritage through exceptional cuisine and warm hospitality. The success of the original Alpine location led to expansion with additional locations in Fort Worth and Dallas, but the Alpine restaurant remains the spiritual home of the brand. Over nearly three decades, Reata has become synonymous with quality dining in West Texas.
Practical Information
Located at 203 North 5th Street in Alpine, Reata is open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM, with lunch service on Sunday and Monday from 11:30 AM to 2 PM. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season and for large parties. The dress code is casual to business casual. Private dining is available for special events.
Explore More While You’re Here
Reata Restaurant pairs naturally with some of the most popular destinations in the Big Bend region.
Big Bend National Park
The Persimmon Gap entrance to Big Bend National Park is about 55 miles away on US-385, a straight shot toward the Chisos Mountains, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande corridor. Plan a full day or more — the Chisos, Santa Elena Canyon, and the Rio Grande are all inside that gate.
Marathon
Marathon is about 25 miles away on US-90, a historic railroad town of galleries, lodging, and a quiet main street before the park. It is the usual overnight on the drive in from the east, and a good reset after days in the desert.
Terlingua Ghost Town
The historic Terlingua Ghost Town is about 70 miles away, with nearby dining and sightseeing that bring the area’s mining history to life. The old porches, the cemetery on the hill, and the nightly gathering at the Starlight Theatre are the usual finish to a Big Bend day.
