There’s something for everyone at The Commonwealth Texas
By BOBBIE JO YOUNG | Photos courtesy of THE COMMONWEALTH TEXAS
The Commonwealth Texas isn’t just a dining establishment — it’s a destination. An elegant fusion of upscale dining and relaxed family fun, The Commonwealth embodies the vision of its founders, Josh and Kerri Pearson, and Jerrod and Kristi Wittman. What began as a shared dream has quickly evolved into one of the most talked-about venues in Central Texas. The name itself embodies the purpose of The Commonwealth — for the well-being and common good of the people.
The Visionaries
Josh and Kerri met while attending the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Married for 22 years, the Pearsons are proud parents of three children and seasoned entrepreneurs with three businesses under their belts. Kerri’s sister, Kristi, and her husband, Jerrod, who also met at UMHB, are the co-owners and have been married for 24 years with four children.
Both couples felt that Temple was missing something — a place where families could gather for a meal, where friends could enjoy an evening out, and where the experience was as important as the food.
“We wanted to provide a place where people could do more than just eat and go home — a place for people to enjoy experience dining,” Kerri said.
Where Dining Meets Leisure
The Commonwealth is not your typical restaurant. Spanning 10,000 square feet on three acres, the establishment boasts various features that cater to a broad spectrum of guests. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated night out or a casual family dinner, The Commonwealth delivers.
Membership is not required to enjoy what The Commonwealth has to offer. Non-members can dine in the main restaurant or outdoors, where they are treated to a menu that is as diverse as it is delicious. With four different chefs, each bringing their unique culinary styles to the table, The Commonwealth’s seasonal menus promise something for everyone. From perfectly smoked meats to scratch-made sauces, the attention to detail is evident in every dish.
But dining at The Commonwealth is about more than food. The venue is designed to be a place where people can gather, relax and have fun.
Three pickleball courts offer guests the chance to have some competitive fun, while the spacious outdoor patio, complete with turf and yard games, provides the perfect spot for a laid-back evening. One patron exclaims, “It feels like you’re in Austin or Dallas when you walk in — not Temple.”
The stylish Jerrod also serves as general manager, adding his own polished brand to The Commonwealth. He handles the marketing, incorporating wit and clever humor. Catch this in action every Friday at noon by tuning into the podcast he co-hosts with Josh, a kindred spirit with an equally contagious sense of humor. Their show, “Watch Us Drink,” is available on their Facebook page.
More Than Dining
For those who want to take their Commonwealth experience to the next level, the membership option offers exclusive perks that make it genuinely worthwhile. Members have access to special events each month, such as five-course wine pairings and spirit tastings. These events often feature reps and experts who bring product knowledge and, of course, some great swag.
One of the most intriguing aspects of membership is access to the posh speakeasy, a hidden gem located upstairs behind a cleverly disguised bookcase. The speakeasy offers a unique, intimate atmosphere where members can enjoy a quiet drink or a game on the golf simulation machine. The space also includes an outdoor deck, perfect for soaking in the Texas sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Members also enjoy the benefit of spirit lockers, where they can store their purchased selection of liquors. When they visit, they can enjoy their spirits without paying extra for mixers, creating a personalized and cost-effective way to enjoy their favorite drinks.
The membership has proven immensely popular, with nearly 140 members and an additional 200 people on the waitlist — a testament to the appeal of The Commonwealth’s offerings.
Thoughtful Design, Local Flavors
Walking into The Commonwealth Texas is an experience in itself. The building, designed with flair and attention to detail, is a visual treat.
Kerri Pearson, who took the lead in decorating the space, has created an environment that is both elegant and modern. From the specially ordered California stucco exterior to the dining chairs upholstered in rich buttery leather, every aspect of The Commonwealth was carefully crafted to create a warm and stylish atmosphere. The nine bathrooms, each designed by local artists and designers, add a playful touch, with each one boasting a different theme.
Inside, the space is divided into different areas, each offering its own unique ambiance. Two bars are stocked with an impressive selection of more than 350 spirits and 40 wines. The bars also offer 10 beers on tap, ensuring that there is something for everyone. For those looking to indulge in something special, Kerri’s “Cause-Mo” — a signature cocktail with a cause — donates $2 from every purchase to a different nonprofit each quarter, combining good times with a good cause.
The outdoor area is equally impressive, with a large deck that features comfortable seating and a turf area where children can play while their parents relax nearby. Live music, which began in September, will add another layer of entertainment to the already vibrant atmosphere.
The Commonwealth Texas is deeply committed to supporting local businesses, reflected in its choice of vendors. It partners with local suppliers like True Harvest and Iron Table, ensuring that the ingredients it uses are as fresh and local as possible. It also offers a local beer brewed exclusively for it by Bold Republic Brewing Company.
A Venue for All Occasions
Whether you’re looking to host an event or enjoy a night out, The Commonwealth has you covered. The venue can accommodate large groups, making it an ideal location for parties, corporate events and family gatherings.
Reservations are necessary to hold events or claim full rooms but are not required for dining in or showing up when the mood strikes.
For those who prefer a more active evening, The Commonwealth’s pickleball courts have open play four nights a week. A drink trailer, humorously named “Pour Choices,” is conveniently located near the courts, and the kitchen also offers charcuterie and family-style options for players who work up an appetite.
Kevin Koonce, an already loyal member, says The Commonwealth is “a spot for neighbors to gather, hang out, get to know each other, and have a true sense of community.”
The Future of Dining in Temple
As The Commonwealth Texas continues to grow in popularity, it is clear that Josh, Kerri, Kristi and Jerrod’s vision has struck a chord within the community. By creating a space that offers both high-end dining and relaxed fun, they have filled that niche in Central Texas. Their commitment to quality, community and experience has made The Commonwealth not just a restaurant, but a destination.
“The Commonwealth Texas brings together community and possibility — to redefine what the neighborhood watering hole should be,” Jerrod said.
The Commonwealth Texas
Address: 11830 West Adams Ave., Temple
Phone: 254-677-6722
Website: thecommonwealthtexas.com
Facebook: facebook.com/thecommonwealthtexas
Instagram: instagram.com/thecommonwealthtexas/
