Historic Belton building gets new life as The Gin at Nolan Creek
By Lisa Carlisle | Photos courtesy of The Gin
Belton is an old city with a new feel. As the city grows, we are seeing an increasing trend in the old meeting the new. Amazing historical buildings getting new life and ownership, and nothing highlights this better than our very familiar Gin at Nolan Creek. The Gin has been a local staple for almost 100 years, having been through several transformations to become the beautiful restaurant and event space it is today.
The transformation grows further under the recent new veteran ownership and operation of Travis and Sarah Trumbull. Together they bring 20 years of restaurant experience as well as a fresh take on the direction they want to take The Gin.
“We are so excited to be the new owners of The Gin at Nolan Creek,” Sarah said. “This place has always been special to us, and we can’t wait to share our vision for the future with everyone.”
The Trumbulls hope to enhance their menu, increase community involvement, as well as highlight the atmosphere and ambiance of the event spaces.
“We want to make The Gin at Nolan Creek the best it can be,” Travis said. “We are dedicated to giving our customers an unforgettable experience every time they visit.”
This sincerity is instantly reflected the moment you’re welcomed by the friendly staff.
The main dining area once housed The Gin’s large cotton machinery, it remains open with high ceilings, original beams, warm woods and stunning fixtures. Well placed dining tables offer beautiful views of Nolan Creek. The wait staff is kind and happy to make suggestions, starting with an array of appetizers like thick-cut onion rings or the delectable Cotton Balls. The menu includes southern favorites like a hefty size portion of chicken-fried steak and crispy golden fried catfish.
It also features several new flavor packed items like the brisket quesadilla and the refreshing avocado tacos. Top it off with some too-tempting-to-pass-up southern classic desserts such as peach cobbler or the modernized donut “bread” pudding.
Following a series of descending stairs, the former press foundation stands regally, remade as a bar ready to serve drinks for anyone’s taste.
The bar is fully stocked and offers custom-crafted cocktails like The Gin’s signature Texas Bluebonnet Margarita as well as a full wine list.
Following the ascending staircase, walking alongside stained-glass windows, you’ll find the converted loft dining space.
The Gin at Nolan Creek has two party rooms to accommodate a host of events. The Banquet room in the former seed house, can seat up to 70 people with indoor and outdoor space. This special room has an 100-inch screen and projector set up, ready for any occasion. The second event space, the Board Room, features a private balcony accessed by The Gin’s original wooden sliding doors from 1927. The balcony overlooks the creek, and it is perfect for family or work functions.
The Gin at Nolan Creek a fantastic and unique location for a casual lunch after visiting the creek or a romantic dinner with craft cocktails. At The Gin, you will feel a part of both the history and the beautiful growth in Belton.
Sarah and Travis Trumbull want their patrons to know, “We are not in the restaurant business, we are in the people business. Our mission is to give back to our community, not only through donations and sponsorships, but by creating a work environment that betters the lives and futures of our team through our core values, which, in turn, will create quality food and memorable experiences for our guests.”
Come by The Gin at Nolan Creek for some Southern comfort food and a bit of history. Make sure to say hello to Ginny, The Gin’s beloved cat mascot.
