Our Story
A new restaurant in beautiful downtown Saint Maries. We look forward to serving our community for many years to come. Come in and enjoy a glass of wine and an appetizer, or stay longer and enjoy a full-course dinner.
Our History
Terry and Michella Davenport moved to the Saint Maries community in 1998. They have spent the last 25 years serving their hometown in various ways. Terry has been a physician, jail chaplain, and volunteer track coach. Michella volunteered as an art teacher and took on photography to fill a need for local students. In 2022, they purchased the Timber Country buildings with the intention of building a photo studio. Within months, they came to the conclusion that the area needed a nice sit-down restaurant. That realization began a 2.5-year renovation to bring you The Royale. There have been several inquiries regarding the name. Since the Davenport is already taken, it was decided to name it after one of the Elk you will see over the bar. Shep and Lew are the only things we kept from Timber Country. Lew is a Royal elk, and he is the inspiration behind the name.
Connections to the past
Michella grew up in her family's steakhouse in Missouri. Ted Williams Steakhouse was well known in the Midwest, as it was located on historic Route 66. The nine-foot fiberglass bull on top of the unique round design made the building a landmark for I-44 travelers.
Full Family Affair
We are thrilled to be a truly family-run business. Stephen Davenport, affectionately known as Mr. Cheese by local students, has assumed the position of Sous Chef. Alena Davenport returned from living in Nashville to run front of house. She brought her fiancé, Jason Waters, on board to run business operations. We look forward to bringing fine dining options to our community.
Shep and Lew
Loved by Many
