If you live in Mansfield, odds are you’ve passed it by a million times without knowing it. Tucked away downtown, Steven’s Garden and Grill has been quietly serving up satisfaction since 2001. A recent motif in my life, this restaurant’s local spirit and health-conscious menu are immediately endearing.

All vegetables served at Steven’s are grown in its namesake garden, which provides a pleasant view to guests as they walk in. There’s really nothing unpleasant about it; you get a feel for old Mansfield as you gaze at the walls. Pennants of Texas college teams hang from the ceilings, the walls are neatly adorned with posters advertising upcoming local events, and the staff is as friendly as any you could imagine.

Steven’s offers barbeque, seafood, and Mexican cuisine in addition to traditional grill food. Among their specialties are fish tacos and “pulled piggy”, pork smoked slow enough to “pull” off the bone. There is nothing fried on the menu; burgers are complemented with chips or vegetables.

Unlike many restaurants today, the burgers at Steven’s are actually grilled as you order them. A customer requesting their burger medium will receive it as such. I was delighted with the precise preparation of my meal. All burgers at the restaurant are served on a wheat bun, with fresh homegrown lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions. As you bite into their well-peppered burgers, you get the sense that you are eating right.  

If you feel like something a tad more indulgent, their dessert menu includes a classic brownie sundae, homemade bread pudding, and three types of cobbler.

Also worth noting are the meat market specialties found alongside the typical menu. Commonplace meats like brisket and sausage are available, along with various seasonal fish, and novelties like ostrich patties, described by the staff as “nice!”