A little history before I review this spot: The story goes that Tony and Rita Krueger were driving around, discussing life, aspirations, and a possible change of pace. They stopped into that famed small town watering hole, and upon walking through those old wooden doors, Rita said "This is it." Tony and Rita bought The Kenney Store on February 26, 2013 at 10:00 am and opened it up on the same day at 3:00 pm. They jumped in headfirst and never looked back. Starting as just a "beer joint" and gathering place, The Kenney Store slowly turned into a restaurant, bar, and now, a full blown live music venue. Their view - "If you are looking for a place to enjoy great food and live music, you're home." That's how this spot became well known in Kenney, Texas.
I've been here a few times in the past year and I knew I would write about it sooner or later. In fact, just a short drive from the city of Brenham and you find yourself in Kenney, Texas. The feel you get when you walk in the front door is like stepping back in time a little. Like you're back in the 1960s. The dance floor and stage to the left with tables to the right takes you back to the days when a Friday night dinner is Texas was a really big deal. Note: There are additional rooms and even outdoor seating in the back. In my opinion, there's not a bad seat in the house. My waitress (named Alma) was very friendly, and helpful. I had ordered the hamburger steak, with mashed potatoes , green beans, onion rings and a fresh garden salad. When it was served to me (in record time, no less) said to myself - "That was a lot of good food right there!!" While enjoying my meal, I reviewed the entire menu. In my view, the food is just right for the atmosphere and you will find something you like; something for everyone. Additionally, the Kenney Store has live music on the weekend and the entire staff bragged about it. I'm sure it's lots of fun.
During my second visit, about 6 months later, I brought my wife. I said to her - "This is something you really need to experience." We had a very nice server (Joshua) who made some nice recommendations (thank you, Josh)! We started the dinner off with the Chips & Green Sauce and might wife devoured about 70% of it on her own. For my entree, I ordered the Cheeseburger and my wife ordered the Ribeye Steak Bites. We were both blown away by the flavor and portion size! We shared our meals together and honestly could not decide which entree was better. We clearly both enjoyed our meals very much!! My hamburger patty was thick with great flavor (both cheese and beef), it was amazing! My wife posted on Instagram - "You definitely need to check out this place if you haven't been and I'm looking forward to coming back and trying something else and to see some live music next time!!" Now, keep in mind that this was her first visit to the Kenney store. How's that for a ringing endorsement?
What I love the most about this establishment is that they specialize in homestyle cooking. I don't care where you grew up. It's just sooooo good. Excellent old decor, staff that are professional, quick and so friendly. The food, what can I say, it was all tasty, generous portions and reasonable.
On my final visit before writing this blog post, I returned once again with my wife. We both had the lunch special(s) - chicken fried chicken with mashed potatoes (skin still on), fried okra, roll and sweet tea. The other special was homemade meatloaf and we were a little bit late and it was all gone! My wife ordered soup and 1/2 sandwich and she bragged about both of them for a long time. Another one of their signature dishes is a spinach and artichoke burger so that will have to be for our next trip. Once again, it was such a pleasant experience and I thought about the food all afternoon.
Simply put, this is more than just a restaurant, The Kenney Store is a place for families and friends to gather and have a good time - the great food is just a perk. You could spend ages sifting through the extensive menu, with everything from deli items to juicy steaks and gourmet mac and cheese. Enjoy live music by local artists on select nights, and don't you dare leave without a slice of pecan pie. You are sure to create fond memories at this family owned place!
811 South Loop 497, Kenney, TX 77452
(979) 865-2404
www.thekenneystore.com
Comments