Gil's Broiler & Manske Roll Bakery, a beloved gem in San Marcos, TX, has been delighting customers for decades with its warm atmosphere and mouthwatering offerings. Known as the city’s oldest restaurant, this charismatic establishment serves up not just good food, but a slice of local history. Customers rave about the chili burger, perfectly juicy and flavorful, and the exquisite Manske rolls—a cinnamon roll that's hard to beat, even after 51 years of life, according to a delighted patron.
The vibrant vibe is enhanced by friendly staff, including a notable young employee who brings a touch of joy to the dining experience. Guests appreciate the blend of classic music from the '60s and '70s that complements the nostalgic decor adorned with vintage photos. The service is both prompt and personable, making every visit feel special, whether it's a casual meal or a trip down memory lane.
If you're in the area, Gil's Broiler & Manske Roll Bakery is a must-visit for anyone yearning for hearty American fare combined with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. With reasonable prices and a unique blend of flavors, this spot truly embodies the spirit of San Marcos.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Gil's Broiler & Manske Roll Bakery
EAT THE RICH
Jun 8,2025
I truly wish I can give this place a million stars. They are deserving. Christian and the crew are the type of people you want to come to when you’re in need of an meal. This special hole in the wall - in the heart of San Marcos has the best food, customer service, and vibe. The phots speak for themselves
Shana Simonson Black
Jun 1,2025
The Bestest and I mean Bestest roll I've ever had in 51 years of life. Service was great the lill dude in my photo's works there and was ready to pose for my review he didn't even know I'm doing. Great lill dude and wonderful service and reasonable prices. Thank you, Gil's Broiler & Manske Roll Bakery
Josh
May 27,2025
A bite of history just off the square, Gil's boasts of being San Marcos' oldest restaurant. I enjoyed their chili burger with some water water and loved their cinnamon roll ("manske roll"). I appreciate a place that seems to serve fast food but cares enough to only serve you your dessert at the end of your meal, when it can be perfectly warm. Gil's has several tables & booths under a wall of old photos of the city. Parking is available along nearby streets.
Max
May 7,2025
Went back to visit San Marcos and show my other half the great spots of my college years! Waaay better than I remembered. Manske rolls are always a MUST!
Marc T Morelli
May 7,2025
Friendly employees, beer, music from the 60s and 70s, and a history dating back to the 40s. Fantastic burgers and make sure to try the delicious Manske Rolls they are famous for. Overall good vibe for a campus burger joint.
Kyle Hendrickson
Apr 10,2025
Cristian was awesome, he was running the place by himself(coworker called in). He was very positive and upbeat even though he was slammed. He was apologetic about the wait times as he was just one person. Food was good
Foodie & Entertainment Junkie
Mar 26,2025
I just bought my boyfriend and I burgers from Gil's on Tuesday August 3rd, 2021. We haven't had burgers from there since we were kids. We're from San Marcos. The burgers tasted just the way they should be. The fries were good. To top it off we had a Manske Roll too. Delicious as always. Just as I remember. If you're not from here you should go by Gil's and try a burger and a Manske Roll. You won't be disappointed.
Rebekah Bruce
Mar 15,2025
Hands down the best burger I have had in quite some time! We love discovering unique burger joints when visiting new towns and this one did not disappoint. The fries are fresh, the burgers had amazing flavor, and the buns didn't taste like stale old bread like most fast food hamburger buns.
Reviews For Gil's Broiler & Manske Roll Bakery