Fort Worth’s dining sector experienced notable transitions during June, characterized by the departure of several established venues and the introduction of new culinary concepts. The month saw the end of operations for multiple businesses while others expanded or relocated within the city.
Several long-running establishments ceased operations. On The Border, a Tex-Mex chain with a 44-year history in North Texas, shut down all company-owned locations on June 12. While franchise locations in five states and South Korea continue to operate independently, the corporate presence in the region ended. Gauchos Brazilian Steakhouse is reportedly moving into the former On The Border site at 6536 Northwest Loop 820 Freeway in Lake Worth, though it appears to be an independent business. Fixe Southern House in Clearfork also closed permanently on June 11 after eight years, with owner Keith House providing no specific reason for the shutdown, even as the flagship Austin location remains open. Leaves Bakery and Books will close on August 15 after years of operating on West Magnolia Avenue. La Playa Maya Stockyards on North Main Street is scheduled to close on July 5, ending its tenure at the 1913 brick landmark, though three other locations remain open. Ribbee’s BBQ closed on June 21 after losing its lease, with owner Jonny White planning to open a new barbecue restaurant in Brooklyn this fall.
New and relocated concepts are entering the market. Barry Bagels has signed a 30-unit franchising agreement for Texas, with the first location set to open in Aledo by the start of the 2026-27 school year. Dirdie Birdie, a miniature golf course and restaurant, will open on July 8 in the former Bottled Blonde building in the West 7th area, featuring 12 Fort Worth-themed holes. Emma and Travis Heim, who retired from barbecue last year, opened One Trick Pony Pizza Tavern at 313 S. Main Street, serving Chicago-tavern style pizzas and craft cocktails. Sunrise Scones, a new brick-and-mortar shop by baker Gretchen Seegel, opened at 309 W. Daggett Ave. in South Main Village.
Existing businesses are also making changes. El Sombrero and its sister restaurant Arizola’s now offer weekend breakfast starting at 8 a.m., featuring items such as enchiladas with eggs and chilaquiles. Chef Michael Riemenschneider, who trained under Gordon Ramsay, is consulting on upgrades at Beren Meze and Grill, with owner Çaglar Unlu aiming for a Michelin Guide listing. The Botanic Garden Cafe will close on June 30 and reopen in the fall as Flora House under Westland Hospitality, with chef Juan Rodriguez designing the new menu and interior. Piattello Italian Kitchen is relocating to The Shops at Clearfork, targeting a November opening with expanded hours. The Sour Boule announced a second location in Willow Park with an expanded menu. Sam Won Gardens reopened as Sam Won Korean Cuisine under new owners at 5201 McCart Ave. after the previous owners retired, offering a similar menu at higher prices. Tommy’s Hamburgers is reopening its Camp Bowie Boulevard location after a May 2025 roof fire, featuring a full remodel and new menu items including a kimchi burger and wine margaritas.
