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Distinctive Mason- Lea Lou Co-Op
Photo by Jackrabbit Studios

Andy Smith knows all too well the meaning of “there’s no place like home.” With German roots running deep like so many of the Hill Country founding families and with a hefty dose of determination inherited from his great-great grandmother, who was the first female banker in Texas, Andy is no stranger to shaking up a dream and making it a reality. Lea Lou Co-Op, alive and thriving on the Square in Mason, Texas, is representative of Andy’s own forward-thinking spirit and imagination. Taking the first letter from the names of each of the important women in his life, Andy’s daughters; Liza, Emarie and Ada along with Tommie Lou for his mother; Lea Lou Co-Op was born.

The owner of The Plateau Café in Fredericksburg, Texas, from 1990-2004, Andy sold that restaurant to a member of the Crouch family. It became what is now Hondo’s, located on Main Street.

In 2014, Andy purchased the historical Grosse hardware store in Mason. His penchant for the eclectic inspired the first incarnation of Lea Lou and led to what has today become a full-service restaurant serving up seafood, mesquite-smoked steaks, and craft pizza. The restaurant proudly boasts a full kitchen, featuring a selective and well-curated menu. On any given night, there may be a special chef in the kitchen or a beautifully crafted meal showcasing a wide range of culinary diversity. With rich woods, rock walls, specialty lighting and local art covering the walls; Lea Lou is reminiscent of an old Texas Roadhouse.

The site has grown to include the 21 Club, a full- service bar, complete with pool tables; the Cattle Barron’s Blain, seven well-appointed boutique hotel rooms; the event center, which doubles as a dance hall and a showcase for the likes of Gary P. Nunn and Max Baca & The Los Texmaniacs. The event center features outdoor dining, dancing, and a firepit. The event center is available for group gatherings such as weddings and other private parties.

Each lodge is designed with the influences that made Mason what it is. Local Indian tribes that inhabited the landscape in and around Mason, Spanish explorers, Mexico, and cattle were all instrumental in the development of the unique décor. Further evidence of Lea Lou’s growing popularity came recently in the form of a mention in Texas Highways Magazine, “How 10 Small Towns in Texas Have Adapted and Flourished.”

Upcoming events such as the Lea Lou Summer of Love Festival , the Crawfish Festival , music events for Round-Up Weekend, and live music guests always bring crowds and visitors from all parts of Texas. Events are well advertised in advance which makes weekend planning easy.

Look no further for a combination of personality, laid-back comfort, friendly style, and great food. Be sure to look for Andy if you visit. He will not be difficult to find. Lea Lou is Andy Smith.

Since Lea Lou is located on the Mason square, it is convenient to visit the numerous shops surrounding the area and other sites of interest for visitors.

The Manager of the lodge is Sherie Culpepper and she can be reached at 325-805-3401 for inquiries about availability and booking. In addition, bookings for the lodge can be made through airbnb.com. You can also follow Lea Lou on Facebook. Their address is 114 San Antonio Street, Mason, Texas 76856, and their telephone number is 325-347-1234. Visit lealoutx.com for more information.

Texas Hill Country Magazine