Round Top, Texas, is widely known for its antique shows that attract thousands of visitors annually. However, there's much more to this charming small town that makes it a destination worth exploring beyond the markets.
Andrea Schutter Riebeling, a real estate agent with Champions Farm/Ranch REHS Group, moved from Houston to Round Top 11 years ago and hasn't looked back. "Round Top is not a country town – there is a lot to see and do here. So many friends I grew up with in Houston visit regularly."
For nature enthusiasts, Round Top is home to several parks and nature reserves with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. The quaint downtown area offers a variety of locally owned shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can also explore the town's history through its historic buildings, some of which date back to 1885.
"Of course, people visit for the antique shows, but there are several other annual events, including the Chili Cook-Off, Christmas parade, 4th of July parade, and the Round Top Wine Walk," says Riebeling. "Festival Hill also hosts amazing concerts that are a big draw for people from all over Texas."
Riebeling shares her top three must-try restaurants when visiting Round Top.
Duo Modern: The Restaurant at Market Hill
WHERE: 1542 Hwy 237, Round Top, TX 78954
WHAT: Houston chefs Nate Pineda and Gino Llanes curate ever-changing seasonal menus at Duo Modern: The Restaurant at Market Hill. The chefs aren't beholden to a particular style or cuisine but let the season's ingredients inspire them.
CONTACT: markethillroundtop.com; 800-732-3722
Round Top Smokehouse
WHERE: 185 Henkel Circle, Round Top, TX 78954
WHAT: Houston restaurateur Lee Ellis, pitmaster Gilbert Arismendez and Cat Huynh partnered up to open Round Top Smokehouse. The trio serves up an eclectic menu of Central Texas-style barbecue, including brisket and pork spare ribs. The rotating sides include coleslaw, garlic noodles, and more.
CONTACT: roundtopsmokehouse.com; 832-245-3545
JW’s Steakhouse
WHERE: 122 S. Hauptstrasse Street., Carmine, TX 78932
WHAT: JW's Steakhouse is located just down the street from Round Top in the small town of Carmine. The relaxed restaurant serves traditional southern-style food, including certified Angus beef steaks, chicken fried steak, and an assortment of burgers, sandwiches, and seafood.
CONTACT: jw-steakhouse.com; 979-278-4240
Andrea Schutter Riebeling, a real estate agent with Champions Farm/Ranch REHS Group is a native Houstonian and Round Top transplant. She has over seven years of real estate experience in the Round Top and Chapel Hill areas. Contact her at (832) 816-1000.
