About
Elk Store Winery & Distillery was first established in 1895; at least, the original store was. It’s a far more modernized location today! Yet, it’s a really cool place to go when you want a good drink, not just a mixed drink, but a drink made by an experienced professional behind the bar.
The original location was founded by a 14-year-old boy named John Cyril Smajstrla, who left Moravia and arrived in Galveston. He spent time working as an indentured servant picking cotton to pay for his passage.
After years, he eventually was able to leave and settle in Elk, where he applied his skills, owned a few cotton gins, and founded Elk General Store.
And today, the store is owned by the great-grandchildren of that boy, Todd Smajstrla and Scott Hladky, who are brothers.
They work daily with a Kentucky copper still to produce small batch moonshine, rum, whiskey, gin, and whiskey and then bottle it at the Elk Store. Every batch of spirits is made in-house and by hand. That makes it one of the best locations for authentic products, made through generations of perfecting it.
The Elk Store Winery & Distillery feels like history, from the smells of the spirits to the history of the building itself—you can’t help but immerse yourself in the craft cocktails and stories!
Vibe
Elk Store Winery & Distillery is definitely an upscale location. They have a beautiful location and a welcoming atmosphere.
It’s generally a good place for couples, singles, or families with older children. And while not a requirement, many people dress up a bit when visiting. Don’t worry, though; it’s not stuffy at all.
Anyone, even if you’ve never had a glass of wine, can find something here to smile about. With the big, beautiful wood bar, soft lighting, and overall positive energy, the Elk Store Winery & Distillery makes for a great place to visit.
There are two areas of this historical restaurant—the tasting room and the spirit and wine bar. The tasting room is a bit more elegant and refined, while the bar is more laid back (go to the bar if you want to order food).
Elk Store Winery & Distillery: Menu & Drinks
With a nice collection of options for guests to enjoy, the Elk Store Winery & Distillery menu is incredible.
The Spirit & Wine Bar area offers some craft options, including moonshine (you just have to try it at least once) and excellent cocktails. If you are looking for one to try, my favorite is the Cool Hand Cuke, which features Shine, Jack Rudy elderflower tonic syrup, cucumber, lemon juice, club soda, lemon, and cucumber slices. It’s got a strong punch but is surprisingly refreshing.
When it comes to food, they do have some options that are hard to pass up (I have come just for the food before because it’s so good). I like the Cuban Sandwich, which is packed with meats. They slow roast pork for it, add in black forest ham, some yellow mustard, swiss cheese, and dill pickles.
I also recommend getting the Cheese Board if you are just looking for something to snack on with your wine and cocktails. It features Ile de France Brie, Block & Barrel Blue, Petit Basque, and a number of other items. It’s filling in itself and perfect for sharing with the table.
Local Tips
- They know their stuff, and if you are looking for hard-to-find liquor or want to buy a bottle of wine produced overseas, they can help you make that possible.
- The tasting room is where to go for wine tastings, and there are a lot of options from around the world.
- They have a wine club to join that can get you up to 20% off when you buy through the club (3, 6, or 12-bottle options shipped to you four times a year).
- Hosting an event? Ask about discounts on the small batch of handmade liquors by the case.
