CoServ on the Road Tour 2024: Justin

By Nicholas Sakelaris | October 29, 2024

These boots are made for walking. Justin Discount Boots and Cowboy Outfitters was named after the town. Photos by BRIAN ELLEDGE
These boots are made for walking. Justin Discount Boots and Cowboy Outfitters was named after the town. Photos by BRIAN ELLEDGE

CoServ will conclude the 2024 Road Trip on the far west end of our service area in Justin, a town known for its boots and western wear. But if that’s all you know about Justin, you’re missing out!

First, a little trivia. Which came first, the city or its most popular business?

It’s a common misconception.

Like most North Texas towns, Justin was founded in the late 1880s and named after a railroad employee, Justin Sherman. Some 90 years later, the Wallace family opened Justin Discount Boots and Cowboy Outfitters, naming the business after the city.

Today, the business takes up 90,000 square feet in three buildings in downtown Justin. From head to toe, the products they sell have slight imperfections or are discontinued, which means they’re sold at a discounted price. If you love Western Wear and haven’t visited this third-generation family business, what are you waiting for?

Walking around all that fresh leather and denim will work up an appetite but fortunately it’s a short trip to some locally-owned restaurants you won’t find anywhere else.

If you’re craving a burger, it’s hard to beat Outlaw Burger & BBQ. The Dionis family has specialized in barbecued ribs, brisket and burgers since the 1950s.

Nearby, another family-owned gem, Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant, is known for its drinks, authentic Mexican cuisine and spacious outdoor patio.

The boot manufacturing company was named after the founder, Herman Joseph (H.J.) Justin. Though H.J.’s grandson John Justin Jr. did help the Wallace family start the store with his discounted merchandise, the two aren’t officially affiliated.
The boot manufacturing company was named after the founder, Herman Joseph (H.J.) Justin. Though H.J.’s grandson John Justin Jr. did help the Wallace family start the store with his discounted merchandise, the two aren’t officially affiliated.
Italian sprinkle cookies made at Santini’s Sweets & Gelato.
Italian sprinkle cookies made at Santini’s Sweets & Gelato.

When it’s time for dessert, stroll over to Santini’s Sweets and Gelato for some ice cream, muffins, cookies and coffees – all made by hand from the Santini family’s Italian recipes. Get your orders in early for special treats, including the Sicilian Brioche Gelato that takes two days to make!

If you’re feeling artsy, The Classy Cactus Antique Mall is the place to go with 10,000 square feet of treasures made by local artists.

Finally, there’s Texas Patina and Mercantile 1887 Delicatessen and General Store, both owned by Jennifer Green. Texas Patina specializes in boutique clothing while Mercantile sells everything from cookies and cakes to freshly sliced deli meat, jams, jellies and preserves.

Justin is a proud, historic city with much more to offer – this is just a quick overview of places to go! We invite you to support the local businesses and experience everything this community has to offer.

WHERE TO EAT:

OUTLAW BURGER

Founded by Yodi Dionis, this restaurant features his famous barbecue, grilled burgers, and hand-cut fries in a rustic, laid-back setting.

MARGARITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

This highly rated Mexican restaurant features a huge menu selection from grilled jumbo shrimp to chile relleno burritos. They also have a full lineup of beers, cocktails and wine.

You can find some of the best burgers and BBQ in Justin, Texas at Outlaw Burgers and BBQ.

You can find some of the best burgers and BBQ in Justin, Texas at Outlaw Burgers and BBQ.

WHERE TO SHOP:

JUSTIN DISCOUNT BOOTS & COWBOY OUTFITTERS

Rows and rows of discounted boots from Justin, Tony Lama, Nocona and more stretch as far as the eye can see. The original owners still work here and their grandchildren are now part of the business, too.

MERCANTILE 1887

Modeled after a “general store” and referencing the year Justin was founded, this store has a little bit of everything. Baked goods are made with love using family recipes passed down for generations.

TEXAS PATINA

Located next door to Mercantile 1887, this boutique clothing store sells everything from kimonos and robes to graphic t-shirts and jeans.

CLASSY CACTUS ANTIQUE MALL

It doesn’t get more Texas than this! They’ve got gifts and decorations from dozens of artists and the booths rotate so there’s always something new to see!

Mercantile 1887 and Texas Patina.
Mercantile 1887 and Texas Patina.
You can find clothing, accessories, bath and decor items at Texas Patina.
You can find clothing, accessories, bath and decor items at Texas Patina.
Some of the many baked goods you can find at Mercantile 1887. They bake fresh cookies and cakes every week.
Some of the many baked goods you can find at Mercantile 1887. They bake fresh cookies and cakes every week.

THINGS TO DO:

JUSTIN FUN DAY

This annual event hosted by the city brings together local vendors, a Ferris wheel, carnival rides, a petting zoo, live music, food trucks and a watermelon eating contest.

THE MULE BARN

In addition to great food and beer, this downtown hangout frequently hosts concerts from all genres of music.

JUSTIN OLD TOWN CHRISTMAS

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, 12-6 p.m.

Don’t miss this fan-favorite event! There will be holiday cheer in every corner including tree lighting, parade, pictures with Santa, live entertainment, a live rein-steer and more!

Tree lighting begins 5:30 p.m.
Light Up Parade starts at 6:30 p.m.