Along a charming street in historic Grapevine, a welcoming coffee shop pairs excellent lattes and pastries with something even more special. Howdy Honey has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its Western-inspired decor, house-made everything approach, and a secret ingredient that’s been alive longer than the United States itself. Their sourdough starter, affectionately named Ester, carries centuries of history in every loaf, connecting modern-day Texans to baking traditions that predate the Revolutionary War.
1. A Sourdough Starter With Centuries of Stories
Walking into Howdy Honey means stepping into a living piece of culinary history. The shop’s sourdough starter predates America’s founding, making it one of the oldest active starters in Texas.
Owner Ashton takes pride in maintaining this living culture, feeding it daily to keep the wild yeast and beneficial bacteria thriving. Every loaf baked at Howdy Honey contains a direct link to bakers who worked their craft before the Declaration of Independence was even signed.
The starter’s age gives the bread a complex flavor profile that’s impossible to replicate with commercial yeast. Customers rave about the tangy depth and perfectly chewy texture that only centuries-old cultures can produce…