Before I entered the building, the aroma of meat on an outdoor grill captured my senses. The overhead sign says Romie’s Grocery. While I sometimes judge a book by its cover, I know judging a restaurant by its name is a mistake. This former grocery store is now a restaurant, sports bar, and outdoor venue for social gatherings. Our table for two was cozy and private, even though a group of 12 was dining nearby. Couples and families enjoyed meals in the main dining area. At the same time, music lovers gathered on the patio to hear the evening musicians’ warm-up sessions. 

Each wall of the dining area has a different theme. Upon entering, I saw the word REVIVAL painted on a wall above a church pew. This wall is a touchstone to the importance of faith in a city that has seen and overcome many heartaches. Another wall was covered in a photographic collage of images, like an unfurled family and friends’ scrapbook.

A third wall pays homage to the original grocery store. Doors of a freezer cabinet line the wall, underneath a colorful image of notable towns in the area. Nearby, daily specials, chalked in bright 8″ letters, are easy to read from anywhere in the dining space.

Tonight’s specials included brisket nachos, shrimp po-boy with a side dish, or cheesy chicken over rice with a salad. I chose from the menu when the pimento cheese bacon burger caught my eye. The thick burger was served on a bun with dill pickles, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, onions, ketchup, and mustard. The generous share of pimento and cheese sauce had a zippy tang but was not overtly spicy. The cheese sauce covered the entire burger, and expecting a bit of overflow is undoubtedly reasonable. 

If you’re tracking the “Off the Wall” murals trail, see the Historical Landmark mural inside the patio space.