A true Galveston landmark, Star Drug Store has been on the island forever. For more than a century, it’s been a fixture in the historic downtown. Way back in the day, customers came to the Star Drug Store for their medicinal needs. At the turn of the twentieth century, pharmacies began adding soda-fountain counters. Star was no exception and added theirs in 1917. It was hugely popular and remains at the store today. At some point they added a robust breakfast and lunch menu, and I like to think that the counter invited some tables along, completely taking over the whole joint and pushing the drug store-part out.

Growing up, my grandmother was a short order cook who worked the little diners alongside the commercial vessels in Los Angeles and Long Beach harbors in California. When I go to Star, I look at the menu and think of her  –  those grilled cheese sandwiches, patty melts, French toast, pancakes, hashbrowns  –  she is all over that menu for me. Star Drug Store is a beloved place on historic Galveston Island where I find beautiful childhood memories over a plate of pancakes.