Local Hidden Gems: Royd’s and Baked and Churned

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Royd’s

South Florida is full of amazing local hidden gems and Royd’s is one of my favorites! I remember walking in for the first time and thinking, “Why don’t more people know about this place?”

Image: Two kids and a mom sitting on a hay stack at Royd's
Royd’s in Homestead

How it All Started

Royd’s had its soft opening in 2021 and officially opened with a full menu in Spring 2022 but the story starts many years before this. Royd Lummus is a Miami native that had big dreams. He had plots of land where he raised ornamental and fruit trees but he knew he wanted to do more. Royd had the idea to create a Western-themed facility with different activities and delicious food. When deciding on food, he had a brilliant idea. 

If you are a Miami native, you have definitely heard of Casa Larios Cuban Restaurant. Royd grew up going and enjoying Quintin’s delicious Cuban meals. Quintin and his wife Maria Teresa had had some bad luck when trying to get back into the restaurant business but were not ready to put their aprons away. Royd approached them with his plans and, without a second thought, they were in! This was the beginning of what is now Royd’s. 

Things to Do

The first thing to catch your eye is the entrance. It looks like the backdrop of an old Western movie. As you open the doors, you see beautiful picnic tables, a mechanical bull, a play area for kids, and a stage set for live music. On the property, there are 3 food buses, each dedicated to something different. One bus makes fresh fruit shakes that are made from fruit grown on the land and it also makes finger-licking desserts like key-lime pie and flan. The second bus makes sandwiches. I ate the “pan con lechon” and it reminded me of Christmas day as a kid. Finally, bus number 3 is where all the Cuban staples are made. Many of Casa Larios’ famous dishes are served up fresh daily. 

Besides the food, there are many family-friendly activities:

  1. Of course, a crowd favorite, the mechanical bull.
  2. An adorable play area that feels like home. There are toys, books, crayons, and cornhole for the whole family to enjoy. 

    Image: A boy playing cornhole at Royd'sImage: A girl sits on a play structure

  3. Royd’s has a beautifully made dog park. There are 2 separate areas for big pooches and little pooches. 
  4. Animals! If you take a walk past the trees, you will find an array of animals that you can feed including a horse, a pig, goats, and chickens. 

5. Live music. Every weekend you can enjoy live music and dancing. 

When To Go

Royd’s is open 8:30 am-5:00 pm Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 am-7:00 pm on Fridays and Sundays, and 8:30 am-8:00 pm on Saturdays. It is located at 20800 SW 177th Ave (believe me it is worth the drive). You will be greeted by amazing servers, Royd’s wife, Maribel, and a host of smiling faces.   

For Sweet Treats: Baked and Churned

If you are craving something sweet after your lunch, head over to the newly opened Baked and Churned. Located on 89th and SW 40th Street, this little family-owned ice cream shop is one you do not want to miss. 

What It’s All About

As soon as you walk in, you see an endless row of gelato churning. You are encouraged to try different flavors (heads up, it is so hard to pick the best one!). All the gelatos are made in small batches. The fresh and natural ingredients make for a creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more. My favorite part? The waffle cones. Every cone and bowl is made fresh when you order!

Image: A freshly made waffle cone    Image: Churned ice cream

Besides the delicious treats, my favorite part of Baked and Churned is the staff. You are greeted with a smile and they make you feel like you are long-time friends. You can tell the owner loves what he does. The welcoming environment, combined with the best ice cream I have eaten, makes this a place that keeps people coming back for more!

Have any favorite local hidden gems? Share them below! And be sure to check out our Guide to All Things 305.

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