🍦 Shake Shack, Velvet Taco + More Coming to Georgetown

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Hope you had a chance to check out Tuesday’s events issue—May’s shaping up to be a good one. If you missed it, you can catch up right here.

Last week we asked what kind of local business you'd love to see open. The winner? A dog-friendly beer garden. Instant classic. Coming in second: a drive-thru breakfast taco spot. Also elite.

It’s not a drive-thru, but the new Velvet Taco coming to Georgetown (details below!) looks seriously good. I peeked at the Round Rock menu and it’s definitely not your average taco.

And hey—if anyone's sitting on startup cash and looking to bring the beer garden to life, you’d have customers lined up! Probably dogs too.

In today’s Scoop:

• 🌳 Big Things Coming to Old Settlers Park

• 🏗️ New Shops Coming to Georgetown

• 🌿 New State Park in the Works for Central Texas

• ♨️ Food Scenes to Check Out

🐄 Looking for a local farmer?

We just came across Shirttail Creek Farm — a hidden gem out of Brenham you might’ve spotted at Austin farmers markets or their two micro-groceries, Local Pastures.

They’ve been farming regeneratively since 2016, focused on healthy land and happy animals. Their eggs have deep-orange yolks — the stuff of legend. They’ve also got pasture-raised chicken, pork, juicy ground beef — even whole cows if your freezer’s ready. 🐄🥚

Use code LOCAL for $10 off your first $100 order. You can get it shipped or pick it up at the market!

Check them out here!

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

🛠️ Old Settlers Park Adds Maintenance Facility

Big changes are coming to Old Settlers Park! Round Rock just gave the green light to build a new maintenance facility, with a $2.18 million contract now in place.

It’ll include a warehouse, remote site, and pole barn — all to help keep the park in great shape as it keeps growing. Work kicks off soon with fencing and utility setup.

The project’s paid for by voter-approved bonds, and city staff say they’re keeping a close eye on costs with the economy being a bit uncertain.

This is just one part of a bigger plan — think new trails, pavilions, and sports courts rolling out through 2027. Read more here.

🏗️ New Shops Coming to Georgetown

A fresh spot to eat, shop, and gather is coming soon! Bluebonnet Plaza, a new retail center by Endeavor Real Estate Group, is breaking ground near Wolf Ranch and Wolf Lakes Village.

Look forward to favorites like Shake Shack, Velvet Taco, Chipotle, and more, plus a Frost Bank and local services. The first phase is already 65% leased and expected to open by mid-2026—with more good things to come in phase two. Stay tuned, neighbors! Read more here.

🌿 New State Park in the Works for Central Texas

Texas just bought 1,100 more acres in the Hill Country, bringing a future state park to over 3,000 acres. It’s about 10 miles upstream from Lake Buchanan—around 90 minutes from Round Rock.

The land has river access, spring-fed creeks, and limestone cliffs. Think Colorado Bend vibes, but more raw and less crowded. The state’s asking for public input soon, so locals can help shape it.

Funded by the $1B Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, this is one of Texas’ biggest park projects in years.. Read more here.

💆‍♀️ Viva Day Spa + Med Spa – Round Rock

Viva is where Round Rock locals go to unwind, refresh, and maybe sneak in a little wrinkle-zapping magic. The team here is kind, professional, and seriously good at what they do — think tension-melting massages, glow-boosting facials, and med spa treatments that don’t feel clinical.

It’s bright, clean, and calming without being overly fancy. I went in for my first visit recently, and Kai gave me one of the best massages I’ve ever had. He took his time working out knots I’ve had for years and finished with an amazing scalp massage that I’m still thinking about. I will definitely be back! Check them out here.

Our Favorites

🔥 Brotherton’s Black Iron Barbecue – Pflugerville

Barbecue lovers know that sometimes the best bites come from the most unassuming spots. At Brotherton’s, you’ll find smoky brisket with perfect bark, juicy jalapeño cheddar sausage, and pork ribs that keep locals coming back.

Don’t skip the sides—green chili mac and tater tot casserole steal the show. This is casual, top-tier barbecue with serious neighborhood pride. Check them out here.

🌽 Arepitas – Round Rock

This hidden gem is serving up Venezuelan goodness with Texas-sized charm. The arepas are stuffed to the brim, the empanadas are golden perfection, and the guava pie? You’ll definitely want to save room for it!

Friendly faces, comfy vibes, and portions so big you’ll definitely need a to-go box—or three. First time or fiftieth, it always feels like dinner at a friend’s place. Learn more.

We’re adding a new section at the end of each newsletter: just memes. No agenda — just stuff that made us laugh and might brighten your day too.

If you’re into it, let us know! If you’re not, that’s helpful to hear as well. We’re here to keep you in the loop on what’s happening around town AND give you a reason to smile.

Want the inside scoop on Leander, Cedar Park, & Liberty Hill? Sign up for our sister newsletter, Leander Scoop!

That’s a wrap for this week. For your daily dose of local news, head to roundrockscoop.com. Catch you next week!

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