Hilltop Restaurant, a famous East Texas landmark founded by renowned herbalist and cook, Madalene Hill, has been part of The Retreat at Artesian Lakes for over 24 years. The quaint dining room is surrounded by windows to enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake and woods it overlooks. An outdoor deck provides additional seating surrounded by trees and potted herbs. The garden and a quiet gazebo are located within walking distance.

 

Now operated by Scott and Jolee Neal, the restaurant offers casual resort fare for dinner (5:00 to 9:00 p.m.) on Fridays, and for lunch and dinner (11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) on Saturdays, and custom catering menus for special events and retreats.

Holidays such as Valentine’s, Easter, and Mother’s Day are celebrated with special menus.

Hilltop also offers a variety of jellies, chutneys, relishes, teas and other specialty items produced in the kitchen and sold both at the Restaurant and at the resort’s Gift Shop located inside the Hospitality House.

The Wedding Garden

Adjacent to Hilltop Restaurant, the Wedding Garden is of course a preferred venue for wedding ceremonies.  Beautifully landscaped with colorful flowers and a variety of annual and perennial plants and bushes under the shade of giant pine trees, the garden has granite-covered paths leading to a central “aisle” leading to the ceremony site, a metal arch set on a stone ledge.

The “aisle” is flanked by lawns on which natural wood chairs are set up for the events.  The garden offers several spots ideal for photography before, during and after the ceremony.  There is also a covered area where standing-height tables are set-up for Hors D’oeuvres and Champagne Toasts.

Horse-drawn carriages are offered to deliver the bride to the garden’s entrance.  

The reception rooms at Hilltop Restaurant are within walking distance.  Another option many wedding parties choose is a large tent set up on the parking lot right in front of the restaurant.