One of Texas’s beloved independent grocery stores, Roy Pope Grocery, closed for good this week after serving Fort Worth since 1943. The grocery’s last day was Sunday, and the property will soon turn into a new restaurant concept, aiming to honor its rich history.
Roy Pope and his wife Rose started the grocery store alongside a laundromat. Over the years, it became famous for its butcher counter and deli, offering favorites like chicken-fried steak and King Ranch casserole. Their success allowed Roy to open Carriage House, a fine-dining restaurant that thrived for many years.
In a heartfelt Facebook post, the Roy Pope team expressed gratitude to its loyal customers. They see this transition as a chance to breathe new life into the space while keeping the essence of Roy Pope alive.
Gigi Howell from Westland Hospitality Group, which manages restaurants like Curly’s Frozen Custard and JD’s Hamburgers, shared plans for the property. Westland will transform the grocery into a restaurant, naming it after Roy Pope to pay homage to its legacy.
Bourke Harvey, a managing partner at Westland, revealed to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that the new Roy Pope restaurant will serve classic Southern American dishes. He emphasized the commitment to great food and hospitality while respecting the shop’s deep history.
As the new venture develops, locals are eager to see how the restaurant will reflect what made Roy Pope special. The community’s mixed reactions highlight a sense of loss but also excitement for what’s to come.
This closure underscores a broader trend in the grocery industry. According to a recent report from the National Grocers Association, more than 12% of independent grocers have closed over the last decade, a significant shift in the market. These changes often spark discussions on community impact and the importance of supporting local businesses.
While Roy Pope Grocery may be gone, its spirit will carry on through the new restaurant, bridging the past with future culinary experiences.
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