Mac & Ernie's Roadside Eatery - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

This restaurant was amazing. The beautiful drive out was topped by really good food. I had the quail and coleslaw, both were fantastic.

Out of the way roadside diner worth the drive (it is 45 minutes for us). Very large menu for the size of the establishment. Extremely friendly staff with one of the cleanest diners we've seen...period. Party of 2 on a Friday for lunch. From order to food ready was just under 15 minutes. They update their menu weekly (check their website). Prices are reasonable and portions are good. Deer burger was rated as excellent as was the shrimp. The sweet potato waffles fries were rated as the best sweet potato fries we've had.

The whole team is welcoming, friendly, and eager to ensure you have a great experience. Food is fantastic and fresh. While the entire menu is good, I like the Combo Wambo with fries and corn dip for appetizer.

The food is very original, very good for the price.

OMG ! I LOVE THIS PLACE. Today we tried the Triple D. A Red Deer burger with balsamic onions and Blue Cheese. You can order it with a different cheese if you so choose....but don't! 😉

Awesome service, delicious food. Service is very family/friendly! Love the food and recommend this place to all who love food!

Outstanding food! Not your run of the mill menu. Super friendly staff. The fried catfish is to die for!!

Lovely place, the service was amazing and the food was delicious. I highly recommend if you are in the area.

It is so delightful to encounter a place where the owner/manager clearly cares enough about doing things well and serving customers some really good food that she takes good care of her team and the restaurant. Texas rural excellence is how I would describe Mac and Ernie's. We found it thanks to two random encounters with people who raved and said you have to try our favorite little restaurant. We drove 50 miles to Tarpley on eclipse day, and it was worth it.

Eat good, relax ,nice place, good setvice, the cabrito burguer was great, the chicken salad sandwich too

Absolutely worth the drive! We're in the area from Washington and made a side trip to try Mac & Ernie's. It was well worth the drive! Our party had the DDD burger, the Philly cheese steak, a grilled pb&j, sweet potato fries, and regular fries. Everything was amazing! The food is very reasonably priced for what you're getting. It's a little longer wait as everything is made fresh when you order, but it's worth waiting for. No complaints from our crew! Even the kiddo ate her lunch.

I’m obsessed. The food, the people, the atmosphere…this is one of my favorite places HANDS DOWN. You must try the burger!!!

Great place! Had the catfish/shrimp basket with fries. The breading was perfect, not too much and tasted great, the red sauce was the best I've ever had, and I don't like red sauce on fish usually. The fries were even good after they got cold, the true test. Can't wait to go back!

Some of the best food in the hill country

What a great find! We’ve eaten here a couple of times. I love the location and the authentic Atmosphere for a side of the road jewel. The locals love it!

I've missed out on my Friday lunches a few weeks, but glad I made it In this week just before the winter break. Great food and they are always smiling! Will definitely be back after the holidays!

The DDD burger and sweet potato fries worth the best!!! It’s a beautiful 1 hour drive out of San Antonio, and worth it.

Amazing food! Great service!! Must come again. Good thing I’m a local.😊

Worth the drive. We always get the fried shrimp.

Love this place! Even though they are the only game in Tarpley, they meet high standards of service and quality. There is something on their diverse menue for everyone. Highly recommend.

The DDD burger was definitely a great burger. Good size and not overloaded with too much. The onions and blue cheese were the perfect balance to the lean Red Deer patty. Great atmosphere and a nice friendly welcome to Tarpley, Texas.

Delicious food; personable and attentive staff. Possibly one of the best things about Tarpley. Most Tarpley elements are near perfect but M and E ties the place together in an indefinable manner. And the food. There's nothing close to its quality for hundreds of miles.

Wonderful! Great place to eat with inside and outside seating.

The quail and the salmon are fantastic (everything looks fantastic but I’ve only tried those two) the carrot cake is excellent, nice wine selection.

Beautiful little restaurant with surprisingly incredible food! The DDD burger is a must have, absolutely delicious.

Prepare to have your taste buds enchanted! The fried porkchops, pork loins, and quail were expertly cooked, golden and delicious. The garlic aioli added an irresistible touch. The green beans with walnuts and baked potato played perfect supporting roles. With a charming outdoor dining area, live music, and an impressive selection of wine and beer, this place effortlessly blends celebration and comfort. The staff's warm and friendly demeanor only enhances the experience, creating a truly welcoming dining atmosphere. An absolute must-visit for a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more and feeling right at home.

Great food. Outside tables + inside.

I've only made it for lunch but I've never had anything bad here!

Kind of tiny inside,but plenty of seating outside... Food is Phenomenal and Dessert is a MUST!!!

Awesome! Stopped here on the way back to San Antonio from Garner State Park. Got the “DDD” Burger, so good! Sweet potato fries on the side and it was the first time I’ve ever ordered sweet potato fries and they actually came out crispy. 5-star fries! I added them to my burger and the extra crunch was amazing!

Very small but Great food!!! Get there before noon on Sunday if you don't want to wait in line!! Seats are available outside too!! DDD Burger was Awesome and big enough for my mom and I to share!!! PHENOMENAL Cheesecake and Carrot cake!!! Big enough for the 4 of us to share!!!

We had the fish tacos and the DDD burger with a side of Shrimp and corn dip for an appetizer. Soooooo good. The staff were great. Kennedy had the best suggestions. Well worth the drive from South Carolina for the experience. Oh....and the banana pudding secret recipe is a secret for a reason...to keep you coming back for it.

The food is really good and the staff is amazing ! Highly recommended this eatery

We went for Sunday brunch. With fish and shrimp it was very good.

First time but not my last. Love this place. Great menu selection and incredible, delicious, savory food!

The food is wonderful here. Put this on your bucket list. The owner and staff are great. Thanks for your hospitality.

This highlight of Tarpley stays busy and is a great place for a scratch cooked dinner either at their restaurant, or to-go. Specials rotate constantly

Amazing red deer burger at quaint eatery.

Let me say this. If you ever even sorta enjoy food, COME EAT HERE! This place is absolutely bomb. I got the lamb chops which you would not expect from this sort of place if you just drove by. They were cooked and seasoned perfectly. Absolutely five star quality! My wife got the pork tenderloin kebab and it was great as well. Service is fast and friendly, and you can even bring your own liquor! They do sell wine by the glass and bottle as well as beer and bottled drinks. I'm gonna go back to get a burger at lunch ASAP. I cannot recommend enough to come give this place a try, you will not be disappointed!

One out of the way joint with very tasty food! Took us three hours round trip to go, not including eating and hanging out. When we are back in the area again, I will be going. 😍

Best burger I've had in ages! I live in Austin and seriously, nothing there compares to the food at Mac & Ernie's. They are serving 5 star food in one of the prettiest places in TX. I am very glad I opted to have banana pudding for dessert, wow was it good!

Great place to stop and take a break while out riding. Burgers are great!! Owner and staff are awesome!!

Check this joint out after driving by several times and seeing several times on DDD. Fish basket and hamburger were on point. Good selection of beer and wine as well. Super friendly staff. We will be back! Made it back! Great meal! Combo Wombo and fried shrimp were on point. Ice Cold Beer! Will be back when in the area.

The best burger and fried catfish we’ve ever had! Don’t miss out on the banana pudding either. This place is a gem.

Like it was on tv. Just have to say if your a Verizon customers you have no service for a few miles. Att and T-Mobile are fine in the area. Staff was really helpful and friendly. Worth the drive out.

Wow, in the middle nowhere you find rhis great family owned eatery and it delivers big time. Try the Triple D burger featured in Guy Fieri on Diners,etc-Foid Network. It's made of New Zealand Red Deer and it's worth the trip. Try their Sweet Potato Home fries with a zesty dip. Also the Cabrito (Baby Kid goat) burger that's very good. Try their home cole slaw. Others such great sandwiches and home desserts. Ask for Marsha (Owner) and the rest of the friendly staff. Enjoy!!!

Lovely little restaurant with grade A food always!

Such a great burger. Such flavors. Generous size as well. This is a great diner and on the way to a yearly trip we make.

Tasty food, big portions, affordable prices. Wish you didn't have to pay for water tho

Best fish tacos I’ve ever had! The creamy cilantro sauce is amazing🤤 The staff is so sweet and personable. Highly recommended!

Been wanting to try their Fry-Fecta for many years. Finally got out here. Well worth the trip! Friendly service makes everything so much better. 😋

Had regular hamburger and it was good.

First visit since ownership change and the food is just as great as before.

Was absolutely a welcomed surprise of deliciousness !!! The entire staff is so Friendly , they truly make the experience so Feel Good while enjoying amazing food. We will definitely be back when we are even within 20 miles or so. Well worth the drive!!

Nice country roadside cafe. Combo Wabo will fill you up. Moderately expensive!

Awesome!! The DDD burger was excellent. The cabrito burger was just as good and so was the fried catfish. We rode our motorcycle 300 miles just to get a taste of Mac and Ernie's. The service was excellent as well. Thanks guys. We'll be back and recommend to anyone if you're anywhere close by. You won't regret it.

Best of the best in Roadside Eateries!! 3 years later...Still the best damn food!!!

I knew Mac & Ernie's existed but I just didn't take the time to stop. I was headed to Utopia but decided to turn around and head here instead. You walk in and order at the counter at the front. The first thing the lady told me was it was going to be a 45 minute wait. It was kinda off putting at first but with it feeling like 102 outside, I decided to wait. I had the intention of ordering a burger. 🍔 But I remembered my brother telling me that the fish was good so I ordered the Catfish & Shrimp combo with coleslaw. Everything was excellent. The fish & shrimp were fried crispy without being grease soaked. The accompanying tarter sauce was homemade and had a strong dill flavor. The slaw was finely chopped and included broccoli in it. It wasn't sweet but was great just the same. Would I go back? I definitely would. I still want to try that burger!

Got the shrimp and catfish basket it was incredible and I also got the BLT and it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. I love this place! It’s a must go!

Food was great and the atmosphere was great too. Plenty of different suggestions to fit almost anyone. Kudos Marsha Jo. Russell

Great little spot in the Texas Hill Country. Not fussy...laid back for family dining and adult dining. Nice selection of wine too. Very hospitable.

Phenomenal catfish and shrimp, everything is always great!

Staff very friendly. Food good.

Visited last Friday for lunch and had the Philly Cheese Steak and sweet potato fries this time and it was DELICIOUS!!! Stop by if you get the chance...you won't be disappointed.

Excellent food and service from this wonderful family owned business. We enjoyed the ribeye steak and mahi-mahi. We also had the superb banana pudding and took home the scrumptious carrot cake.

He wasn't open when we stopped yet the owner came out & greeted us started telling us what he was doing to the place, is going to be great! He gave us a tour and a piece of brisket he just made was fabulous!! His attitude, excitement & he is the friendliest man makes you want to go back there and let everyone you can tell to go there too.

I eat at this restaurant quite often and I have never been disappointed. I love their way of cooking quail.

Oh darn ...I wish I had photos! but the steak was excellent ....medium rare! Love the welcoming positive atmosphere, menu, etc.... just really really really wish yall would graduate from disposable plates at least to melamine or even really really stiff paper disposable... just doesn't do your good food justice to serve it on thin divided styrofoam plates....too small for your very generous portions! And... if any items supoer hot when seved ...it WILL melt in spots. the only glitch with the atmosphere i think, is a conversation interrupting.... sound of a very loud electric blending or chopping tool in the kitchen. Find a way to muffle that...and the atmosphere is perfctly fun and sublime! Rock on chicas !🤟

Didn't see Mac or Ernie. Good eatery on the roadside where BF road meets Hwy E

Excellent Food, Excellent Service! Marsha Jo was a delight to meet and made us feel at home!

I visited this place in the summer and we were surprised by the service we experienced. Staff was friendly and food was excellent. If we ever visit Tarpley or Hondo area again in the future, we definitely will stop by for lunch or dinner whatever the time may be.

Smallest town I have ever stopped in and have an amazing ribeye bake potatoe and green beans that could easily make Houston's fine dining jealous.

The food was really good. Real nice staff

It was wonderful so was the service

Amazing. Took the ride up there from Castroville and it was well worth it.

it was fantastic the fried shrimp was delicious but the Sweet potato fries were superb

The love put into the food is very evident. The coleslaw is the best I’ve EVER come across. I mean like it’s suspiciously good. The Shrimps are colossal and the catfish is the real deal. These women know how to throw it downn.

Wonderful staff and excellent food!!

Go with an open wallet! Menu sounded good, but nothing on it is cheap, so hubby decided he'd rather have Italian.

Awesome atmosphere and staff. Food was the best.

We're in central Texas. We walk into Mac & Ernie's and tell them we don't eat gluten, garlic or onion. Quietly, l'm thinking to myself "Good luck." She says"OK, your best bet will be the ribeye, no seasoning, salad no onion and baked potato w butter and sour cream." We said yes and we were smiling the rest of the night! Thanks, M & E 😊

Second time at Mac & Ernie’s was just great as the first time. I had the catfish basket with sweet potato fries. The catfish was tasty and the sweet potato fries were yummy with a nice crunch. And, the employees were very friendly with smiles. I’m definitely going back.

You have to eat here. Food was really good.

Absolutely delicious! A local recommended since we were from out of town. This is a must stop when in Tarpley Texas

The DDD burger was so good!!! Our group stopped on the way to float the Medina river today for lunch and we ate outside. The young lady at the front was so friendly and gave us great recommendations on what to eat. We had a great time hanging outside and the food was delicious!

This restaurant was pretty awesome, and I can't wait to go back

What a nice little place to come and enjoy food while you're visiting the hice country. The food is amazing and very tasty. Coming back soon!

Great American Diner. The food was fresh cooked and plentiful. The staff were cheery and helpful. My fried catfish was delicious. My wife's steak just right. Plus you get visited by the local chickens. Perfect

Amazing food and lovely people!

Good food, recommend showing up early as they run out of options easily

I had chicken, it was delicious. My friend had catfish and shrimp which was also very good. I highly recommend this place.

Great place, with great service and delicious food. We had a reservation and were very well served. I recommend their fried catfish 😋

Great off the highway dinning place.

Lots of different options, all of it was scrumptious..we will be back

Great food, fun staff. Highly recommend!

Every meal we've had here has been stellar, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner. And, when you need a country drive it's the perfect place to head.

Fun place to go. Nice country ride. Red deer butger and cabrito burger tasted good.

All in all an amazing restaurant. Totally worth the 1-hour drive from Kerrville through rolling hills. Go via Medina and not Bandera.

If you haven't tried it, GO NOW, do pass go!!!! Their food is great! Their service is great! The atmosphere is great! It's been a while since we have been there, but it won't be that long again. Take a nice relaxing drive or ride and stop for a great meal and a cold beverage.

Loved dinner!! Weather was beautiful. Great outside seating.