Proprietor adds house-made sausage to menu

A.J. Gillinger has been in the restaurant business since April 1, and he says he loves it.

"I'm having a good time," says the retired Grapevine Police Department officer who bought the former South Prairie Oyster Market.

The distinctive building on Grapevine's Main Street had been the oyster market for 22 years. As it sits a little apart from the storefronts to the north, the oyster market property has become something of a standalone landmark on the city's busiest street.

It's been AJ's on Main since Gillinger bought it on March 27.

Gillinger went to Afghanistan after he retired from the police department and returned ready for something different.

He had known the previous owner of the restaurant since 1998, and started helping out at the restaurant.

Eventually, he decided to go ahead and buy it.

Gillinger has expanded the menu to include a complete selection of barbecue—brisket, pulled pork, and smoked chicken.

But one of the most popular additions is the sausage, which Gillinger grinds and seasons himself at the restaurant, he said.

Tamales, chile, steaks and shrimp also are served.

Business has been "very good," Gillinger says. "We have a lot of new customers."

651 S. Main St., Grapevine, 817-488-6112, www.ajsonmain.com

Hours: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Sat.