Today, I'd like to talk about institutions. No, not institutions like Harvard, Yale, or even our own University of Texas. I'm speaking about a very different kind of institution. In San Antonio the growth of the city is such that landmarks vanish, sometimes seemingly overnight, in the name of "progress". In the last year, we have seen the closing of Earl Abel's venenerable eatery to make way for a new residential tower. However some institutions still endure. The Tip Top Cafe at 2814 Frederickburg Road has been in business since 1939. The neighborhood is by no means upscale, but the restaurant is going strong, the atmosphere is unique, and the food is great! The fried shrimp plate offers some of the best I've ever had anywhere. Beware of ordering the chicken fried steak unless you are really, really hungry, and a "serving" of onion rings would feed a family of four! Stop by some time soon. You won't be sorry!

Entrees Steaks and Chops Chicken Fried Steak Hamburger Steak with Grilled Onions Grilled Ham Steak Calf Liver with Grilled Onions Breaded Pork Chops (2) Grilled Pork Chops (2) Hot Beef with Brown Gravy Breaded Cutlet with Cream Gravy Hot Pork with Brown Gravy Served with French Fries, Salad, Gravy and Roll Steaks Large T-Bone Steak New York Club Rib Eye Steak Served with Choice of Baked Potato or French Fries, Salad and Roll Seafoods Oysters, Half Dozen Oysters, Dozen Fried Shrimp Deep Sea Scallops Seafood Platter (Two Shrimp, Three Oysters, Three Scallops and Fish Fillet) Grilled Tilapia Fried Fish Fillet Broiled Cod Combination Platter (Six Oysters and Three Shrimp) Served with French Fries, Cole Slaw, and Roll Fried Chicken One-Half Fried Chicken All White Meat (two pieces) Chicken Livers (grilled or fried) Fried Chicken Tenders Served with choice of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes, Salad and Tea Biscuit Mexican Dishes Mexican Dinner (Taco, Enchilada, Tamale, Rice and Beans) Enchiladas Homemade Chili Beef Tacos (2)