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The Driskill Hotel was built in 1886 by cattle baron, Jesse Lincoln Driskill.
Jesse moved from Missouri to Austin in 1849. Gaining his riches from supplying beef to the confederate army, Jesse built himself a show place to "show off" is grand fortune.
Unfortunately, due to high reservation charges, ($2.50 - $5.00 per night, including meals), Driskill could not compete with his competitors who were charging, $.50 - $1.00 per night. Forcing Driskill to close the hotel in 1887.
The hotel passed hands several times through the turn of the century. Even Driskill's brother owned the hotel after Jesse lost it in a hand of poker.
In 1934, future President, Lyndon Johnson met Claudia Taylor for their first date at the Driskill Dining Room. Claudia would later be known as Mrs. Lyndon Johnson.
The Driskill boasts some prestigious awards such as:
AAA Four Diamond Award – 2009
Travel and Leisure Magazine – 500 – The World's Best, 2008
USA Today Top 100 Restaurants – 2006
Executive Chef, Jonathan Gelman and his culinary team prepared for us, a farm to table meal. This meal was a true masterpiece.
Executive Chef Gelman is a Hawaiian native. His culinary journey brought him to study under renowned Chef, Ferdinand Metz.
Gelman apprenticed with the US Team at the Culinary Olympics. Gelman was also a member of the American Culinary Federation's 1996 California team. The team received several gold and silver medals.
Restored to its original grandeur, the Driskill stands for the beauty and elegance that only Texas can offer.
The Driskill remains an important historical landmark in the United States. The hotel is even listed as one of the most haunted hotels in the United States.
Visit their website: www.driskillhotel.com
- Welcome to Austin, no bull!!
Executive Chef, Jonathan Gelman of the Driskill Hotel
Executive Chef Gelman with his culinary team.
Marsha Diamond presiding over her Jersey court.
Executive Chef Gelman and Chef Golden contemplating the presentation.
"Now that's a clean kitchen!!!!!!!"
"No I won't come to your house to cook."
Vision's fabulous new display
New hire initiation – Tracey Turnquist is on for the long haul.
"We couldn't pay the bill so the chef put us to work."
"Ya'al in foodservice right?"
The beautiful Debbie Reynolds was at the hotel having cocktails with friends!!! You never know what stars come out at night. Deep in the heart of Texas.
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