‘THE DINING DIVAS’ DIVAS
EDITOR’S NOTE: Each month, the Boerne Star sends its “crack team” of restaurant reviewers to an establishment in the area. These ladies — who have assumed the names of Pam, Erin, Nellie and Kelly, from TV’s “The Office” — select a restaurant, show up unannounced, and take in all the establishment has to offer. This month: 28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen.
The Dining Divas are back after a short hiatus, prompted in part by the devastating flooding that swept through the region. We took time to reflect on the tragedy and honor the mourning community before returning to what we love: exploring Boerne’s culinary landscape.
This time, we were one diva short, as Pam was enjoying a well-deserved family vacation, leaving Erin, Kelly and Nellie to savor the experience.
We ventured over to 28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen. With more than 300 5-star Google reviews piquing her curiosity, Kelly was eager to explore this new-to-her gem. The atmosphere at 28 Songs Brewhouse was vibrant and welcoming, buzzing with families and large groups enjoying time together.
Despite the crowd, we found ourselves at a bar-height table, which Kelly initially feared might be uncomfortable. To her delight, it proved to be surprisingly cozy and convenient, offering a great vantage point to soak in the lively scene.
With plenty of time to peruse the menu brimming with diverse options and adorned with charming vintage graphics, Kelly settled on the BBQ brisket pizza.
The pizza began with a foundation of perfectly cooked dough, crisp yet chewy, and was slathered with tangy BBQ sauce. It was topped with melted mozzarella and tender, smoky brisket that melted in the mouth.
When Kelly inquired about customizations, the staff suggested adding pickles and pickled onions. The pickles brought a crisp, tangy bite, while the pickled onions added a sweet-spicy zing. This quirky combination turned a standard pizza into a standout dish, cementing Kelly’s loyalty.
Erin’s choice was the golden fried chicken sandwich, a true indulgence. The chicken featured a crisp, golden crust that shattered with each bite, revealing juicy, tender meat inside, a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The creamy provolone cheese melted seamlessly, adding a rich, smooth contrast.
At the same time, the herb mayo delivered a fresh, aromatic kick with hints of dill and parsley that tied the dish together beautifully. Paired with a generous serving of crispy golden fries, the meal offered a delightful mix of crunch, richness and flavor.
Nellie dove into the beverage and burger offerings, starting with the impressive drink menu. She sampled two standout beers from 28 Songs’ local brews:
• 28 Songs Summer Moon (American Pale Ale). Brewed in Boerne, this crisp, easy-drinking pale ale is a refreshing choice. Its light golden hue and subtle hoppy aroma linger pleasantly on the palate, making it an ideal companion for a warm Texas evening.
• 28 Songs Shillelagh Law (Irish Stout). Another Boerne-crafted gem, this classic dry Irish stout boasts a deep, dark color and creamy head. It offers a smooth, roasted flavor with hints of coffee and chocolate.
For her meal, Nellie opted for the cheeseburger, a quarter- pound, house-made beef patty that stood out for its imperfect, rustic shape, a testament to its fresh, handcrafted quality.
Topped with all the fixings and melted American cheese, the burger was served on a toasted brioche bun where the bread-to-filling ratio was spot-on, ensuring every bite was manageable.
Nellie paired it with a side salad featuring blue cheese dressing, which arrived in a perfect portion, leaving her with satisfying leftovers to enjoy later.
From the warm vibe to the innovative dishes and local brews, 28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen offered a heartfelt return for the Dining Divas. We look forward to revisiting this Boerne treasure ... perhaps with Pam in tow next time.
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