The Owl Drug Store and Soda Fountain hearkens to the days when the local pharmacy was also the town’s general store. Not only do the pharmacists in downtown Coleman provide what you need for what ails you, but the crowd around the breakfast and lunch counter offers a healthy dose of local hospitality.
The Owl’s grill and soda fountain is famous between Austin and Abilene for their hamburgers. The ladies who work the tight space at the grill right next to the booths and chrome stools will fix your sandwich to your specification without a hint of judgment.
The food is remarkably good, or maybe it’s the sweet seasoning of the friendly service that makes the meal so satisfying.
The front of the store is a gift shop wonderland stacked to the ceiling where it’s Christmas all year. The walls are decorated with the mementos of the grateful community the drugstore serves.
It is remarkable that the town of 4,700 would be a culinary oasis on the Texas prairie. Other eateries in the county seat worth trying are Rancho Pizzeria, also in downtown; and Amber’s Creekside Steakhouse out on the U.S. 84 Bypass.
The Owl Drug Store Soda Fountain and Grill is at 312 S. Commercial Ave. in Coleman. The grill opens Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm and on Saturday from 8am to 2pm. If you’re in a hurry, order ahead at 325/625-2178.
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This article appears in May 6 • 2016.
