Hilltop Restaurant and Herb Garden

Hilltop Restaurant and Herb Garden (known as Hilltop Herb Farm Restaurant), a famous East Texas landmark founded by renowned herbalist and cook, Madalene Hill, has been part of The Retreat at Artisian Lakes (formerly Chain-O-Lakes Resort & Conference Center) for the past 15 years. The quaint dining room overlooks a lake and is surrounded by windows to enjoy the breathtaking view. Outside, a deck provides additional al-fresco seating surrounded by trees and potted herbs. The staff is always happy to provide baskets of leftover bread to feed several varieties of fish and turtles. The Hilltop Herb Garden and a quiet gazebo are located within walking distance. Under the direction of Executive Chef Kevin Palm, Hilltop's cuisine is based on the herbs grown in the adjacent herb garden. The herbs are also the basis for the variety of jellies, chutneys, relishes, teas and other specialty items produced in Hilltop's kitchen and sold both at the restaurant and at the Gift Shop located at the Hospitality House.Special Holiday offerings include Valentine's Day Dinner and Dance, Easter Sunday Brunch, Mother's Day Brunch, Father's Day Brunch, Thanksgiving Brunch, Olde Thyme Family Christmas Dinner and Caroling and New Year's Eve Dinner and Dance.Chef Kevin Palm conducts cooking classes and demonstrations, with prior reservations, for groups of 12 or more. Because of its location, reservations are required for all meals and special events.