The Royale: True to It’s Name

JC toasts the season with a Royale Eggnog

My friend, a confirmed vegetarian, suggested I try Royale, a family pub in the South Tower Grove area. 

“Their Beet Reuben on Marble Rye is the BOMB!” she said.

A Royal Treat

So off to Royale I went along with, Robin, JC, and Lucy.

Once inside the neighborhood watering hole, you can nestle into a cozy booth. Or choose a place at a high top table, or the bar.

Happily, you can also grab lunch or dinner everyday except Tuesday and Wednesday. If it’s warm enough, be sure to hang out in the relaxed courtyard, a dog-friendly space behind the restaurant. 

Lentil Soup 

Pub Grub to Swoon Over

Pick from an eclectic menu: brisket tacos (highly recommended); grass-feed, local, griddle burger; veggie burger on ciabatta, Brussels sprout salad with balsamic glaze; Cajun pot pie; gnocchi, hummus, as well as gluten-free and vegan offerings. Slake your thirst with one of the many choices of craft beers.

Steve F. Smith has owned the local hotspot since 2005. During that time, Royale has been recognized by The Riverfront Times as “Best Neighborhood Bar” and for “Best Burger.”

The inside of Royale’s Fish Taco

A Pub with Political Pizzazz

But there’s another unique feature at Royale. Smith has labored for years in the Democratic vineyards. Photos of political grandees hang above the bar. What’s more, the neighborhood hub provides an outlet for political buffs to share ideas, watch debates, or just lick their wounds.

Smith explains his willingness to encourage the political meetups saying, “The Revolutionary War, that led to the creation of our country, was hashed out in taverns.”

Chicken Pozolé, a Mexican comfort food, made with hominy grits, pork broth, and spices.

The Royale BLAT (includes avocado) served with a helping of Billy Goat Chips

The partial-face portraits lining the walls add to the whimsical atmosphere.

The exterior sets the tone.

“How about dessert?”

Our Next Stop Was a Sweet One

JC multitasks outside Ted Drewe’s.

A Bit of Swag to Help Remember the Day

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The Royale Food & Spirits. 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd.,

Open 5 days a week: Mon 4p.-midnight; Thu, 11:30-midnight; Fri-Sat 11:30-1a; Sun 11:30a-11p; Closed: Tue-Wed.

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