The Laurel Tree Brought to You by Chef Laurel Waters
The Creator of The Laurel Tree is the one and only Chef Laurel Waters. She earned Le Grand Diplôme in Cuisine, Pastry, and Wine from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, one of the most respected culinary institutions in the world. From there, she honed her craft in Provence, working in the kitchens of some of France’s most celebrated restaurants. She cooked at Le Moulin de Lourmarin under Chef Edouard Loubet, a two Michelin star restaurant known for its deep connection to local terroir, trained at L’Oustau de Baumanière with Jean-André Charial, also awarded two Michelin stars. She also worked at La Bastide de Moustiers, the Provençal farmhouse restaurant created by Alain Ducasse, where seasonal cooking and garden-driven menus define the experience.
This devotion to craft and ambition with flavor that her training inspired is ingrained in all that Laurel creates, and we are so lucky to have it continue to live on right here in Utopia, Texas.
The Restaurant
The Laurel Tree is styled after the traditional European “guest table,” where the meal is curated weekly according to the best seasonal foods, and what inspires the chef in their journey from adjoining restaurant garden to browsing in local farmers’ markets. Patrons are guaranteed their table for an entire meal service, so they can linger with friends and family over wonderful food for as long as they wish. All guests are welcome to stroll around the extensive and beautiful gardens before and after their meal, which include gorgeous seasonal flowers including poppy fields in Spring, an inventive herb garden, an antique gypsy caravan and a walled garden full of delights.
Evening meals include five courses for a fixed price of $69, including appetizer, soup, salad, dessert, and beverages. There are no hidden add-ons, no extra charges. Guests may choose between two main courses offered that day, while the rest of the menu reflects the chef’s vision for the season. Lunch is a four course delight, with a similar format (albeit different choices). Laurel’s cooking is a wonderful fusion of her French and Texan roots, as well as all of the tastes that she has enjoyed on her many travels. Guests are welcome to bring their own wine to share to complement their meal - glassware and corkscrews are provided at no charge.
A Community Staple
Over the years, The Laurel Tree has become a beloved staple in the Hill Country community. Guests return time and again to host visitors, for anniversaries, birthdays, and celebrations. Others make the drive from San Antonio for a standing lunch date. Many make the journey across the state, drawn by reading about The Laurel Tree in a magazine, enthusiastic word of mouth and the promise of an experience that is truly unique and delicious.