Roy's Grille

Restaurant · Irmo

Roy's Grille

Restaurant · Irmo

1

7971 N Woodrow St Ste D, Irmo, SC 29063

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Roy's Grille by null
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Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
Roy's Grille by null
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Roy's Grille by null
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Highlights

BBQ, Korean cheesesteak, burgers, and soul food served from Exxon  

Google Rating
4.7
(492)
Featured in Eater
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7971 N Woodrow St Ste D, Irmo, SC 29063 Get directions

roysgrillesc.com

$ · Menu

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7971 N Woodrow St Ste D, Irmo, SC 29063 Get directions

+1 803 359 0994
roysgrillesc.com

$ · Menu

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dine in
takeout
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Last updated

Aug 8, 2025

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The Legacy of Food at Southern Gas Stations Is Rooted in Black Survival - Eater

"Roy’s Grille, off of Main Street in the small town of Lexington just outside of the state’s capital of Columbia, serves up Southern food and convenient meals like barbecue and burgers at an Exxon station. Owner Chris Williams carries some of the foods you’d find at many Southern gas stations, but when he opened in 2014, he also wanted to bring other less typical dishes to the proverbial table, like ribeye steaks. However, he quickly found out that his gas station patrons were looking for familiar foods that were inexpensive and fairly easy to eat. 'People are reluctant to come into a gas station and buy upscale food,' says Williams. 'They were used to things such as gizzards, bologna sandwiches, and chicken that has been sitting out for two hours.' Still, Williams added twists on those familiar dishes to his menu: He makes his food from scratch, and added shrimp and grits, barbeque, and bacon made right outside — items that aren’t as suited to eating on the road, but are welcome comfort if a traveler has time to spare to sit and eat. 'A lot of people who hear about us say, ‘A gas station, get outta here. I’m not going to eat out of there,’' says Williams. 'I knew that would be people’s response going into it, but I wasn’t worried because I knew we had a good product.' Roy’s Grille is also part of a longer history. Esso stations (the predecessor to ExxonMobil) were once known to be one of the only national gas stations that employed Black people in addition to allowing them to stop, shop, and dine during the Jim Crow era. That continues with Williams’s business, a testament to the long-standing tradition across Southern gas stations of offering food and respite to their communities and hungry travelers alike." - Amethyst Ganaway

https://www.eater.com/22442991/black-owned-gas-station-food-southern-america-history
View Postcard for Roy's Grille
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Kezaira W.

Yelp
My husband is a huge fan of this place, and it's easy to see why! We stop by at least every other week to grab some delicious food, and it never disappoints. The customer service is outstanding:friendly, welcoming, and always a pleasure. We're so glad they opened in Irmo! The ambiance is cozy and laid-back, making it a great spot for a quick lunch. We usually pick up dinner, and it always hits the spot. If you haven't tried them yet, you're seriously missing out. Do yourself (and your family) a favor and give them a try!
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Ebony S.

Yelp
I was excited to go try the food!! The employees didn't seem inviting and excited to work there but the service was fast. The food was hot and good!! I also had the Korean Eggrolls!! They were great!!!
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Ben B.

Yelp
I kick myself in the a$$ for not finding this spot sooner. I will put this down as my cheat on my diet spot because it's that good a place. I came here on a whim and it didn't disappoint. I got the double cheeseburger with bacon and it's was outstanding! Two nicely sized patties with some crisp bacon. The lettuce and other adornments were fresh. Got some hot fries to go with it. The ONLY issue I had with them was I had to use mustard packets because they didn't have any to put on my burger. The tea and brownie was good diversion as well from the norm for me as well. I will be back and who knows it may not be on a cheat day!
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Felicia g.

Yelp
A small hole in the wall in IRMO SC that is a must try!! I'm from Nc so I like vinegar based bbq but they'd did NOT disappoint. We got a pulled pork bbq plate with 3 side (Mac and cheese, bussin, collards, a bit seeeter than I like but was fresh not canned so I enjoyed them regardless and coleslaw, it tasted a bit like a green apple, which was good in my opinion but some may not like that) We ordered through DoorDash so we didn't order directly through them, which caused issue due to them being out of the original side I wanted (candy yams) but assuming that they ran out already and had only been open for 5 hours let me know they would have been good too! My husband had the ribs and he moaned so loud when he bit into them, so I'll take that as they were also AMAZING!
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Thomas B.

Yelp
Three of us visited this restaurant today and were so glad we did. We shared the Award winning Carolina Korean cheese.steak and it was amazing. We also tried the ribs and pork nachos which were also excellent. My mother in law says that the sweet potato fries were the best she has ever had. Chris the owner was very cordial and made us feel welcome for sure. We will return another time. Thanks Chris.

Frank M.

Yelp
Sorry. $17 is a little strong price for just a cheeseburger; since there are several options in the area. The BBQ did smell good.
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Carol R.

Yelp
Seriously good bbq with excellent customer service. The pulled pork platter and award winning Carolina Korean cheesesteak were top notch. Don't forget the house made mustard sauce!
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Bob P.

Yelp
What a great find. We've struggled since we moved here to find good bbq. Search no more. We had the brisket sandwich and it was out of this world! Tender, tasty on a brioche bun with sweet potato fries. Can't wait to come back for some ribs
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Maura C.

Yelp
Melt in your mouth brisket, cute decor, lovely people. So glad to have a great bbq place so close. Excited to go back!
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Vicky R.

Yelp
I went to Roy's for the first time based on a friend's high praise. I got the pulled pork, baked beans, and potato salad. The pork was really moist. You can chose among 6 sauces to put on it. I chose the vinegar and the mustard base. I liked the vinegar, but wished it had just a little more heat. I did not grow up on mustard based sauce so that was a new taste for me. The baked beans had a good flavor. I loved the flavors. I was very disappointed in the potato salad that was total mush. I would try this place again and order something different.
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Desiree R.

Yelp
Thinking of giving this place a try? Don't think, just do! You will keep on coming back, pinky promise. Flavor bomb in your mouth. Customer service is the way every restaurant should be. My husband and I live in South East Columbia and happily drive across town to eat here. I just wish food didn't make one gain weight cause I would try the entire menu! Well played Roy...well played.
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Charles B.

Yelp
Amazing food, the best bbq I've had in SC hands down. The brisket was super tender, jalapeño potato salad is delicious! Try the nachos with pulled pork!

Attorney A.

Yelp
I just finished eating the Korean cheesestrak egg rolls, w/ fries, and Mac and cheese. Everything was on point and the vibe, as well as customer service was exceptional! I would post a picture, but its all gone. ​​ E!!!
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Bill R.

Yelp
Great ribs and chopped que. don't miss this place. Also friendly service. Sides good also.
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Keith B.

Yelp
I had the double cheese burger, sweet potato fries, both were delicious, the fries were the best I've ever had! The burger was perfect, definitely will return, the service was quick and the people were very friendly! The restaurant was very clean including the restroom.

Nancy Brock

Yelp
Got a Philly cheesecake with extra onions and no cheese. Combo with a drink $24 Totally not worth it in my opinion. Food was average and so so overpriced
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Jade W.

Yelp
I decided to take the ride out to Irmo to finally try Roy's Grille. Parking was good, and the restaurant was clean and pretty spacious. Customer service was pretty standard for this day and age. The lemonade was really good. The sweet tea was really sweet. The grilled chicken nachos were delicious. I opted out of the BBQ. They were really good. I ordered a brisket plate with macaroni and cheese and collard greens. I was not a fan of the brisket. It was like it had been cooked like a pot roast. Also, I did not enjoy the macaroni and cheese. The collard greens were okay. I wish I would have tried the ribs instead of the brisket. If I do return, it will be for the nachos.
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Aaron H.

Yelp
Still love this place. Keep up the great work. Really enjoyed the chicken jerk nachos.

Mikaela

Yelp
My husband and I have been trying somewhere new when we go out since we moved here. This place is so cute, staff is wonderful, and the food was delicious.
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Jamie C.

Yelp
Everything is always delicious! The Korean Cheesesteak is my favorite thing but the bbq is delicious too! They have cheesesteak minis for a special sometimes and the portion is perfect. The staff is always friendly and the seating is casual and welcoming.
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Ami A.

Yelp
Amazing sweet and spicy pork BBQ nachos! The potato and bacon salad and Mac and cheese were delicious too. The owner is warm and welcoming. He has been catering for over twenty years, opened a brick & mortar in a gas station and finally has his own spot in Irmo. Lots of well deserved accolades.

Cheryll S.

Yelp
The food at Roy's Grille in Irmo is outstanding. Roy & his staff are professional & efficient. Roy smokes his meat in a smoker in the parking lot and the aroma is wonderful! I live about 4 blocks from the restaurant & if I have to drive down Broad River Road, I always drive past the restaurant just for the smell! I highly recommend!
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Steven R.

Yelp
The Big Pig sandwich is AMAZING! Definitely more than enough meat to leave you satisfied and so good, you'll want more. Great place with great people. Do yourself a favor and don't miss this place!!

Michael T.

Yelp
Service and Food Was Great. Ambiance was okay but the food and service overshadowed the rest that's why I'll give 5 stars
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P H.

Yelp
What an outstanding business! Absolutely a gem. I decided to take my kiddos for takeout. My son had pulled pork plate my daughter had hamburger and I had bbq nacho with blackened chicken. I so much enjoyed my decision. My daughter had said her burger was just fine she had a side of okra she absolutely loves. My son had side of okra and the best sweet potato fries. I plan on going back. What a gem.
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Gordon Y.

Yelp
Cuisine: 8 Service: 8 Decor: 4 Value: 9 Overall: 8 BBQ served at a gas station!!! As one of my friends said, "This will likely be either epically good or bad." Thankfully, it was the former and not the latter. Let me first clarify that this little shop was tucked away next to the convenient store at a gas station, with a smoker outside. Walking in you'll find one table for four and a couple others for two. Behind the counter were two friendly staff members that took our order and told us a bit about the owner of the joint. Apparently, they have won several awards over the years for the best BBQ in the area. Here's a rundown of our meal. Beef Brisket - sweet bbq sauce, tender and juicy Pork Ribs - spicy bbq sauce, a bit dry but tasty Beef Cheeks - slow braised to perfection, wow! Pull Pork - vinegar based, smoky and delicious Fried Whiting Fish - awesome seasoning, crispy & moist Jerk Chicken Legs - nice little kick and ton of flavor The sides were pretty good too. Our favorites were the Mac & Cheese, Potato Salad, Fried Okra, and Sweet Potato Fries. If this is not considered a neighborhood hidden gem, I don't know what is. I am looking forward to coming back to try more of their yummy stuff.

Lenny O.

Yelp
Tan man on the brisket was incredible. The people working were friendly and outgoing and really loved what they do.

J B.

Yelp
Delicious food! Brisket and the meatiest rib I've ever seen. 10/10. Lots of choices of sauces, something for everyone. Sides we tried - Mac and cheese, beans , potato salad and hash (rice and bbq). All were really good. Staff were helpful and welcoming. Owner thanked us for coming and we chatted for a minute. All great, we are driving through on vacation, but if we are in the area we'll be back. Quality food.
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Mandy N.

Yelp
To be in an Exxon, and only have one smoker, BBQ was pretty damn good! My husband and I were trying to kill some time while we waited out a car accident on the interstate. Yelped some BBQ places and this seemed to be a local favorite. Not hard to get to, average gas station parking. The smoker is right outside and smells are heavenly. They have their own little stand inside the Exxon, even have a separate door. There are a couple tables and chairs inside and one of the staff members held the door and wiped a table down for us right away. Both men working were very polite and accommodating. We ordered the BBQ rib plate and a pulled pork sandwich. We got the ribs with a tomato based sauce and the sandwich with the 'bold and beautiful.' Both sauces were excellent and I wish we would have asked for a little extra on the sandwich. Ribs fell off the bones though. We also got green beans and mac n cheese as sides -- pretty yummy as well! I have zero complaints about our meal. Being part of a gas station, you've got all kinds of people coming in and out. There was a guy who hovered while we ate, took an interest in talking to our infant daughter, and asked us for a couple bucks for food. I assume he was a regular because one of the guys working shooed him off at least twice and apologized. Seemed harmless, but I get why he's be a downer for business. All in all, I'd eat here again!
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John C.

Yelp
I had the Korean cheesesteak sandwich with the potato salad. Both were very good - as good as Fire and Spice had which was the business that was here before Roy's. The service was excellent and I like the ambiance better than their old location. All in all - great food, service, and atmosphere!
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Raymond W.

Yelp
Lemme speak on this.... Roy's Grille... WELCOME TO IRMO!! To the FIRE n SPICE loyalists look closely the Korean Cheesesteak survived the transition. The EXPERIENCE: service was friendly. The food was cooked to order fresh. The remodel was a new and remodeled space that was warm and welcoming for sure..., especially for the first day! The FOOD: Korean Cheesesteak: this was a great homage to F&S's version. The flavors were spot on from the bread's taste and texture... to the juices that the shaved steak is cooked in. It was tender, flavorful just like I remembered with an Asian flare and punch to it with the pepper jack cheese and spicy mayo. The only knock was that this is a smaller sub than the F&S original. Bacon Jalapeno Pimento Cheeseburger: THIS!!! NOW HERE THIS..... for all you pimento cheese cheeseburger-loving fans..... this is FRFR next level. I teared up a bit after my mouth and processed all the flavors. I could eat this every day.... the house-made pimento cheese is as good as Dipratos if not better (I believe it to be). Buttered buns... who don't like their nubs buttered??? The double smashed burger patties were SEASONED (I believe with his own blend) masterfully and even with all of the burger fixings... none of them were lost or muddied on one another. Well done brother!! SIDES: I preferred these savory collards, and the crinkle-cut fries were nicely seasoned crinkle-cut fries. The only way to improve on the fries is to level up to fresh cut like Five Guys..... but I enjoyed his burger far better than any I've ever had there. The sum TOTAL: I believe Roy's Grille is here to stay. Like F&S, Roy's knows who they are... and they have the following they do because they focus on their strengths which are their uh-mazing sandwiches and complimentary sides. F&S had no true rival in Irmo (and I believe in COLA).... and I can safely say the same about Roy's. The hours of service (11a-6 or 8p) afford the lunch crowd and early dinner crowd Tues-Sun an opportunity to enjoy his sandwiches, burgers, and plates. You can be sure I'll try his BBQ at some point, and those that know me already know to wait for that review (pitmasters, and BBQ JUDGE, small business owner on deck)!!!! In closing Roy's used to do a limited breakfast menu, and if that ever returns... that might be a total game changer in little humble Irmo. #fearlessFOODIE #anHONESTRayview

Melonie F.

Yelp
My husband and I drove over to Roy's grill having seen the excellent reviews. We got there about 7:15 but there was no one there. I assumed that it was gonna be open until 8 o'clock if it's advertised that way.

Fran A.

Yelp
We love this little restaurant! The nicest people run it and the food is amazing. I highly recommend the bread pudding. It comes out warm and the ice cream is homemade!

Myron J.

Yelp
Food is outstanding. I Love Daaxin this food is great fired. Everything is good about this restaurant. Want me to say?

BJ K.

Yelp
Amazing barbecue! What a tasty little place; giving comfortable relaxed, wholesome vibes. Nothing fancy here; the food is the star. Chris hits it out of the park on all counts. Brisket and pork were tender, moist and flavorful. The "smoke" was on point; gentle yet pleasantly present. Seasoning was flavorful, yet not overpowering the gently smoked meats. Sides were the bomb! Chris's take on potato salad, mac-cheese, green beans and coleslaw were unique and great accompaniments to the deliciously smoked meats. Sauces were varied and flavorful. He kicked up the heat on my vinegar based sauce perfectly! Chris's mom was tending the register and she's absolutely lovely! Keep up the great work Chris--we were "teased" in by a Southern Living article (https://www.southernliving.com/roadside-restaurants-8603139) and hopefully you'll see more guests seeking a very special South Carolina barbecue experience. KUDOS!
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Kat S.

Yelp
Great food! Casual dining. Brisket sandwich was really good. I notice they do lots of carry out. I was talking to 2 older ladies and they eat there at least twice a week. Locally own. If you want great food come here. I promise, You will not be disappointed. I cat wait to go back.

Chad M.

Yelp
Roy's Grille catered the food for our son's recent USC graduation party (by his request). The BBQ, collards and mac and cheese were amazing. Best of all was how the owner Chris Williams took care of us to make sure everything was just right. His signature BBQ sauces are special and something you really have to try. If you want BBQ, eat in (the restaurant is spotless clean) or carry out, you cannot go wrong with Roy's Grille. Five stars!
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David F.

Yelp
Great BBQ! We got pulled pork & ribs, fried okra, and sweet potato fries. Also had banana pudding and bread pudding for dessert. Everything was excellent and very reasonably priced for the quantity you get. On top of that, the staff was really friendly and helpful. You can tell they wanted to make sure you have a good experience. That goes a long way. We'll definitely be back next time we're in town.
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Emily E.

Yelp
Amazing food, amazing customer service, Roy is such a sweet genuine guy and makes AMAZING food I mean AMAZING! He really does cook from his heart. 10/10 highly recommend!
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D.K. M.

Yelp
Ordered a Carolina Korean BBQ sandwich and OMG that sandwich was amazing!!! Also ordered the regular cheesesteak and it was very good too! Had the rib platter which was excellent! Good sides to choose from. Best place for cheesesteaks in Columbia!

Miriam H.

Yelp
All of our food was DELICIOUS! Four of us ate four different dishes and were well satisfied in both flavor and portions. He asked if I wanted whipped cream in my scrumptious peach cobbler, and whipped up a fresh batch on the spot--even torched it to caramelize the top. Most importantly for me, the chef knew all of his ingredients well and could advise me what to eat to avoid allergens. It's SO rare for me to be able to eat at restaurants. We definitely will be back.
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James C.

Yelp
Found this jewel on trip to Chapin! Flew in headed to my brothers house and hit Google yo get some lunch. Had the Bacon Jalapeño pimento cheese burger with collards !! Was great!
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Gregory C.

Yelp
Good food, good prices. Passing thru Lexington SC I stopped for a meeting and grabbed lunch afterwards. Roy's Grille showed up on Yelp with a single $ price rating. For just under $11.00 I got three bones (pork ribs), collard greens, and pasta salad. The ribs were meaty and tender. They have three or four different flavors. I got sweet and spicy. They were only mildly spicy. In fairness, it should be noted they were prepared yesterday. At this price point, this is an acceptable trade for me. The greens and pasta salad dishes were savory and well seasoned. The staff was helpful, explaining the menu choices and checking to see if I needed anything after receiving my food. Disposable plates, a small (but not over-tabled) dining room, and being situated in the corner of an Exxon station give it a bit of a divey feel, but one that is just fine for the "lunch" drive by. There were a number of people dining in and they had steady carry out traffic while I was there. Roy's Grille was a good spot for lunch. Though I live in another town, I will definitely consider coming again if in the area.
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Kathleen R.

Yelp
First time eating at Roy's Grille for lunch today. Three people. Three different meals. All three were excellent. Highly recommend. Would definitely go again. Service was excellent. Chris was very helpful what to order and he was right on. Can't say enough about such a great experience. Thanks again Roy's Grille for a great lunch.

Lynda B.

Yelp
Today was my daddy's birthday and I took him to Roy's!! I had the best hot fried fish fish best coleslaw, hush puppies, and fries! The service was good place nice and clean. Honestly, it is my favorite place to eat. Oh and we got a little complimentary bread pudding. Dang it's good.

Aaron W.

Yelp
The Korean Philly is hands down one of the best I've ever had. Wait time was not long at all and has a pretty cool staff. Will definitely go back.

Yolanda B.

Yelp
Awesome the food was great. I will definitely be going there again. They heave this great seafood Pasta salad.
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Ron V.

Yelp
I'd like to write a review but i"m going to put in this instead....can't give it any rating because we didn't get to eat there...but I guess I have to rate it. I'm giving it five stars for now since I don't want to hurt it's rating for this review...I'll updated it when I return!!! We arrived around 11:30 (seven of us). We'd never been before and I'd read the great reviews on Yelp (it was my idea for us to go there). Unfortunately, one of our guys checked it out upon arriving early and said they didn't have enough seats. It is small, attached to the Exxon station, so I went inside and checked it out. Yelp didn't say much about the seating so I assumed our lunch group would have no problem. Roy's has about 4-5 very small round tables with two chairs and a small rectangular table with 3 chairs. I told the guys that we could easily sit and eat, since nobody was in the restaurant at this time, but they felt that we usually sit together and talk over the world's problems and that we'd be taking up so much of the tables and chairs...they wanted to go elsewhere. The smoker was going full blast out in the parking area and it smelled Delicious! I would've liked to have stayed but was voted down...BUT...I will be back! Sorry for the incomplete review but it looks and smells worth a try. Thanks to Mr. Rick, I didn't get to try Roys. Next time we'll just leave him at home!!!!
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Laura S.

Yelp
The girl at the counter definitely did not want to be there. Not friendly whatsoever - kinda rude. She just points you to napkins, we had to go get our own napkins, silverware. Never asked if we needed anything (which we did) and then had the nerve to tell us to bus our own tables! There was not another customer in the place. Never again!