Royer’s Round Top Cafe

Best known for its twice-a-year antiques fairs, Round Top is a tiny pinhead on the Texas map, a laid-back country town with a picturesque town square and sweet-as-pie towns people. There’s even a sign posted that says “If you’re in a hurry, go to Houston.” That sign, of course, is at the famous Royer’s Round Top Café.


Royer’s is the heart-and-soul of Round Top, serving “contemporary comfort food” in a cozy, be-signed space. Bud Royer lives by the saying “Life is too short” and plans his menu accordingly. The jalapeno cheese soup was a fiery hit, as was the chicken corn chowder with cilantro. I had the grilled shrimp BLT, with spicy grilled shrimp sitting atop a soft roll with thick, sweet bacon. The sandwich was chock-full and tasty, though the fries were unimpressive.


Royer’s is firstly famous for its pies, and FYI, you’ll pay 50 cents more if you want your slice without ice cream. Why? Because pie is supposed to be eaten with ice cream, that’s why. So after lunch we split the sampler plate, our choice of four slices, generously topped with Amy’s vanilla ice cream.


We chose the Butterscotch, Tollhouse Chocolate Chip, Apple, and Strawberry Rhubarb… and I liked them in that order. With flaky crusts filled with rich flavors and a slick sweetness, the pie alone makes this place worth the trip. Antiques weekend or not.

Royer’s Round Top Café - 105 Main Street, Round Top, Texas