The Sheraton Georgetown Texas Hotel and Conference Center created accommodations for visitors when it opened in July. However, its restaurant, Brix and Ale, is providing a place for residents and visitors alike to gather.

“I think Georgetown was looking for another nice dining option; we were happy to add to that,” Sheraton General Manager Rita Healy said. “It is still very comfortable, and I think that’s what people are enjoying.”

The Sheraton created the restaurant’s contemporary American pub concept, but Healy said there is only one other Brix and Ale in the country.

With the hotel's ability to create its own take on the menu, it was important to make it locally focused, Healy said.

“We [took The Sheraton’s] concept, and then we used our local influence to make it a really authentically local experience,” she said.

With Executive Chef Luis Quezada and others, Healy said she helped shape the menu to fit with Georgetown and reflect the surrounding region.

“We honed the menu to what [the] chef and his team do really well and what our guests are telling us they love,” Healy said. “We will continue to do that.”

Quezada, who started cooking in 1999, said that using local and regional products is crucial.

“I think as a chef here in Texas, you have access to a lot of great food, and that pretty much dictates everything,” Quezada said. “All you have to do is use simple techniques, and the food speaks for itself.”

Fresh Gulf seafood is used in several dishes, and local craft beers—even some from Georgetown’s Rentsch Brewery—are featured on the menu.

Brix and Ale offers a wine menu including 12 different options specifically on tap. Wines are available in 2-ounce or 6-ounce pours as well as bottles.

Healy said the goal is to not only provide gourmet food, but also to listen to the customer.

“What has always been important to [us] is not only the food, but making sure our service goes along with it,” Healy said.

Brix and Ale 1101 Woodlawn Ave., Georgetown 737-444-2750 www.sheratongeorgetowntexas.com Hours: Mon.-Sat. 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. (brunch) 11 a.m.-2 p.m., (a la carte brunch) 11 a.m.-3 p.m.