Unless you’re a rancher or otherwise in the agriculture industry, you may not know there is a dining option ubiquitous in Texas but hidden from view. Nearly every small and not so small town here has one, yet most people drive past it regularly without knowing what they are missing. First, do you know where the nearest Livestock Auction or Sale Barn is to you? Second, do you know you can enjoy delicious meals there? Come along as we dive into the secret world of Sale Barn dining!
Places to Eat
Exposed! The Secret (and Delicious) World Of Sale Barn Dining
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According to Circle G Catering’s David Goerke, longtime chef for the Seguin Cattle Co., the menu there consists of a special of the day or a big, juicy hamburger. Both options are homemade and, at $8 per person with iced tea and dessert, priced extremely well. Each week sees a rotation of meal options, including fried fish, pot roast, fried pork cutlets, and BBQ. Plus, every fifth Wednesday of the month, carne guisada is usually featured. All are welcome, and in fact, about half of food sales are to non-auction patrons. Even local companies get in David’s delicious cooking by picking up plates for their employees!
Photo: @swedrone via Twenty20
Are your taste buds tantalized yet? Here are six tips for enjoying a meal at a Livestock Auction Barn.
- Defer to those in the industry if not participating in the auction, as their timeline is short, they have been working since early morning, and they have many miles to go.
- Wear your stretchy pants or that belt with one extra notch.
- Comfort food is king. Think brisket, chicken fried steak, BBQ sandwiches, and of course, hamburgers. Expect meat, meat, and more meat!
- Enjoy the social aspect but don’t butt into conversations.
- Every cafe is different! Cooks can be on-staff, catering crews, or 4-H Club volunteers.
- Menu sizes range widely as do operating hours. Some cafes are open 24 hours, others just for lunch, and still more open ‘until the sale ends.’
Photo: @luca.mara via Twenty20
Thank you so much to Facebook people who responded with their favorite livestock auction/ sale barn dining spot! Below is a listing of Livestock Auction and Sale Barns with a place to eat, sorted by days of auctions. Where are you going to try first?
Mondays:
Tuesdays:
Wednesdays:
Thursdays:
Fridays:
Saturdays:
