1. Organic Outpost
Set the tone for organic style with a rehearsal dinner at Casa de Luz. This Austin establishment specializes in turning out vegan and organic cuisine that tastes as good as it looks. Parties can take place in the outdoor garden or in a private room for up to 80 people. (512) 476-2535
2. Barbecue Bites
Make room for the groom’s passions: The Salt Lick in Driftwood is a true Texas-style barbecue joint with an open barbecue pit. The menu: barbecue of course. Think, all-you-can-eat beef brisket, pork ribs, sausage, and barbecue chicken. (512) 894-3117
3. Sunset Cruise
Dine on the water aboard a barge cruising down the San Antonio River. Just choose your favorite cuisine—Italian, Mexican, barbecue -- and one of Riverwalk’s restaurants will provide a catered meal for 20 of your closest family and friends. (210) 244-5700
4. Fine Wines
Wine lovers? Then gather your guests for a sit-down dinner in a private wine cellar. At Courtyard on St. James in Houston you can host a wine-paired dinner for 20 to 50 surrounded by hundreds of bottled vintages. (713) 621-0555
5. Scenic Seating
For a room with a view, head to The Eyes Over Texas atop the Tower of the Americas in San Antonio. Wedding planner Tracy R. French of the French Connection led us to this sky-high revolving restaurant, which seats up to 250 guests and has stunning views of Alamo City. (210) 223-3101
6. Hidden Gem
Forty-eight miles east of Dallas sits a large ranch with an even larger following. The Four Winds Steakhouse in Wills Point has an elegantly rustic private room, which seats 60. The menu: high-end cooking like lobster tails and filet mignon. (903) 873-2225
7. Foodie Find
If to you, the rehearsal dinner is really about the dinner, check out Sambuca Restaurant in Dallas, Addison, and Houston. The menu: global cuisine including fresh seafood, authentic pastas, and gourmet desserts. After the meal, music lovers can linger to watch live acts take to the stage. (214) 231-0048
-- Christa Vagnozzi
Photo: Courtesy of Casa de Luz
See More: Rehearsals + Brunches , Rehearsal Dinner