OCTOBER 2017
PAGE 38
Celebrating 30 Years Texas Lil’s - an Icon in Old Town Temecula Most of us have no memory of Old Town Temecula in 1987. In fact, most of us were not living in the area at that time. Population which was about 20,000 in the late 80’s has become 100, 000+. It is probably safe to say that there are very few businesses that opened in 1987 that are still here today. But, Ron Walton, owner of Texas
Lil’s Mesquite Grill opened his restaurant and it is still in the same location, 30 years later. “When I opened Texas Lil’s, The Swing Inn was the only other restaurant in Old Town. I opened Texas Lil's in early 1987 and in June I married Becky. We have owned and operated the restaurant together for 30 years,� said Walton. “ In the early 90’s, when Ed Dool opened The Stage Stop, on 6th Street, we worked together to petition the City Council and Cal Trans to change the name of the street to Old Town Front Street,� explained Walton. That vision gave Old Town an identity which has helped it grow into the destination that it is today with 200 businesses: restaurants, boutiques and specialty food shops. Texas Lil’s continues to serve Classic American fare but often the customers are children and even grandchildren of the original patrons. “I love the customers,� added Becky. “We welcome the kids, grandkids and even the pets on our ‘pet friendly’ patio. Our guests have included a goat and a pot belly pig. If they are well behaved, they are welcome here,� she continued. “We have always offered the Kids Eat FREE menu every day,� added Ron. The Canine Menu includes grilled chicken breast, turkey dog, burger patty and meaty beef rib bones. Menu items are always accompanied by a bowl of water to wash it down. Pets that dine at Lil’s can meet frequent diner, Buckaroo, Becky’s pride and joy. On the 87 item menu, diners can choose from starters and small plates; Tex Mex items such as quesadillas, fish and street tacos; fresh salads including the Wedge and Becky’s chicken rice bowl; sandwich selections include Brisket Dip, chicken pesto and more; burgers 5 ways and 6 steak choices.