“The Castle on the Hill”

“From the moment you pass the gate that surrounds the Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills, you feel as if you’ve left the bustle of San Antonio behind you.” This is the description given by John Griffin, the dining editor of the San Antonio Express-News. This atmosphere is created by the twisted drive, the abundance of oak trees, and the splendor of this stately mansion that has been converted into a restaurant.

As you leave your car with the valet, you continue on your journey through the rustic elegance of the estate. The hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplace, original hand-d-stained glass windows, and elegant, yet comfortable ambiance create the perfect setting for a romantic evening.

The grounds surrounding the house are littered with even more live oaks, which conceal the quaint private dining house. The courtyard surrounds a fountain and hand-tiled walkway, captivating visitors. This setting is ideal for a moonlight promenade, an intimate and pleasant addition to an already unforgettable evening.

Aside from the impact that the ambience of the restaurant has, the history of the house itself will leave it’s own impression. Chester A. Slimp and his family began construction of their “country place” in 1929. At that time they had a clear view of what was then downtown San Antonio. In 1931 they completed what would come to be known as the “Castle on the Hill.” When the municipality of Castle Hills evolved, it adopted the name of the landmark it surrounds.

The private dining hall was later erected as a surprise art studio for Mrs. Helen Slimp, a popular local artist of the time. It was built in less than sixty days during the summer of 1936 while she was on retreat with friends in Santa Fe. The pine rafters in the building are from east Texas and the walls of the building are built with double offset ledges for displaying her artwork. Mrs. Slimp continued to paint in the studio into her late eighties.

The two-story, four bedroom, three and a half bath rock residence had its own water and heating plants with automatic controls and electric and telephone service. Although it was considered to be “out in the country” during that period, the home had as many modern conveniences as the time permitted.

As time passed, all but 2 1/2 acres of the original 44 acres remains. Shopping centers and office complexes surround the gates of the property, which withhold a paradise inside.

In October 2001, Jason Dady along with his wife, Crystal, and brother Jake opened The Lodge Restaurant. Minimal renovation was done or was necessary, to convert this historic residence into a fine dining restaurant. Rewiring, air conditioning, creating an ADA compliant restroom and adapting the kitchen were the majority of the construction project. Attention to the landscaping and the addition of a rear parking area were also necessary projects. Overall, the goal was to preserve the historic ambiance of this unique property.

Today, the history of the Slimp Estate continues to unfold. Guests continuously share their stories with us about their past experiences and how this historic property was a part of their life.

Back to top