Smoked scallop with buttermilk squash as served by the Royal Sonesta.: J. Patric Schneider photo
The people have spoken: The Popular Choice Award from Sunday’s Rodeo Uncorked Best Bites restaurant competition was Royer’s Round Top Café. In second place, Jonathan’s The Rub.

But that was only part of the story in the foodie competition, part of Rodeo Uncorked, marking its 10th year as one of Houston’s largest and most popular food and wine events. Rodeo Uncorked, held Sunday night at Reliant Center, functions as the kickoff to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

The restaurant competition, which involves Houston area restaurants competing for a handful of awards, also serves as a perfect foil for the International Wine Competition (many of the winning wines were served Sunday night).
J. Patric Schneider photo
These are the winners of the Best Bites awards:

Tasty Traditions Award: Bread pudding from Joyce’s Seafood and Steaks.
Rookie Award: Mango caramel from Cacao & Cardamom Chocolates.
Showmanship Award: Catering to Your Tastebuds.
Trailblazing Appetizer/Entrée Award:
1st place: Barbecue short ribs from Killen’s Barbecue
2nd place: Mini pork crispy tacos from Molina’s Cantina
3rd place: Short rib sliders with shaved ham and debris from Frank’s Americana Revival.
Two-Stepping Bread/Cheese/Dessert Award:
1st place: Mango caramel from Cacao & Cardamom Chocolates.
2nd place: Bread pudding from Joyce’s Seafood and Steaks.

About 70 restaurants, which include 30 newcomers to the event, competed in Rodeo Uncorked Best Bites.