It was love at first sight for Denise, and it will be for you, too, as you step across the front door threshold (as thousands have done since 1904) and become engulfed within the memory-filled rooms of this beautiful old Victorian-style home in Madisonville, now known as the Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. Owners Michael and Denise Emanuelli invite you to create your own memories with family and friends as you greet, dine, talk, and laugh the hours away together in this remarkable inn and dining establishment. Purchased by the Emanuellis in December 2021, the refurbishing has moved forward beginning with the gutting, redesigning, and equipping of a full-scale professional kitchen in which Chef Paul Aguilar brings his culinary expertise to life. Prime rib is only the beginning!

Denise, having enjoyed tea in many castles throughout Europe, wanted to offer the same charming experience to others, even to the extent of taking pastry classes to prepare the proper fare for teas. With the purchase of this exquisite property, and the addition of a truckload of antiques from Arizona, the restoration is taking shape, and the parties have begun. From baby showers, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, and more, the inn is once again brimming with the voices of young and old, couples and families, social and civic groups, book clubs and bridge clubs, all making new memories at Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. 

As Denise noted, “Everyone in Madisonville has a Woodbine story. We quickly realized it was more than just a local restaurant. People had a lot of memories attached to her. It was important for us to get this project underway as soon as possible.”

Plans include a bed and breakfast utilizing the eight guest rooms and private baths, and a suite, with all guests welcome to enjoy afternoon tea. The refined-casual dining restaurant is open to the public (serving lunch from 11-2 Tuesday through Friday, dinner from 5:30-9:30 Thursday through Saturday, and Sunday brunch from 11-2). When the inn is fully renovated, those hours may change, so a quick look at the website will be in order. Prime rib, dry-aged steaks, and other fare are procured from local suppliers to ensure the highest quality and freshness possible. Future plans also include a garden to supply fresh herbs and vegetables for Chef Paul’s skillful artistry, his culinary goal always being to delight to your eyes and thrill your palate.

Now that your interest and appetite are whetted, let’s take a brief look at the lengthy history of this unique property. Built in the late 1800s by Jewish Russian immigrants Jake and Sarah Shapira, the original hotel burned to the ground and was rebuilt in 1904 at the same and present location. The hotel and restaurant were a popular destination for locals and travelers for over 100 years. In fact, the building entered the national Register of Historic Places in 1980, becoming a Texas Historic Landmark in 1982. It was constructed of two kit houses (most likely purchased at a Sears & Roebuck from either St. Louis or Kansas City). The original edifice had sixteen rooms with accommodation for eight guests, with the only indoor plumbing found in the owners’ suite. Plumbing was later added throughout. In its infancy, the hotel prized its reputation of having the only telephone in town (the telephone booth now on display at the Madison County Museum).

Over the years, the property has undergone a plethora of renovations under the watchful eyes of several different owners (and name changes as well). Originally the Shapiro Hotel, it has also been known as the Wills Hotel and The Woodbine Hotel, and with the recent purchase by the Emanuallis, is now renamed the Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. For a more in-depth look at the fascinating history of the property, please visit the website. The Woodbine has played an integral part in the fabric of Madisonville life over the years and is, without doubt, woven into the hearts and memories of many of its families. If one would look in photo albums through past years, you would find family gatherings, birthday celebrations, weddings, and community events all set against the backdrop of this historic and beautiful structure. Michael and Denise hope to encourage families and friends to continue this historic saga, to build new memories, to capture fresh images of celebrations and friendships, to enjoy new experiences around the table with good food and good friends. And, as the weather settles into a springtime feel, the refurbished outdoor seating, the newly installed fountain, and the meticulous landscaping will provide a peaceful setting as guests sip wine and savor the culinary offerings of the day. Beer and wine are now available, with other alcoholic beverages on the menu soon.

The Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. Your search for excellent culinary fare, beautiful and cozy surroundings, and a place where friendships can thrive is found at 209 N Madison Street in Madisonville, Texas. Bring your appetite. Bring your senior for photos. Bring your wedding guests and celebrate. Just come and enjoy, and let this historic and beloved inn and restaurant be woven into your future memories. If you have photos and stories to share that took place at Woodbine Inn and Restaurant, recently or in the past, please submit to the email address listed below.

Woodbine Inn and Restaurant
209 N Madison St
Madisonville, TX 77864
936-241-5003
woodbineinnandrestaurant.com
email:  woodbineinnandrestaurant@gmail.com