12 essential Fort Worth restaurants
These long-running restaurants have earned enthusiastic followers for their food, ambiance, and flare.
Hailee Moore/Localite Staff
January 10, 2024
While Fort Worth’s culinary scene is bursting at the seams with excellent new additions and novel fare, this city still loves tradition. Whether you’re a Funky Town newcomer or a proud lifelong citizen, these are 12 restaurants you’ll want to keep returning to, time and time again. Think of this as your quick-hit starter list when you’re thinking of recommendations for your next night out or coworker lunch.
Bonnell’s Fine Texas Cuisine
4259 Bryant Irvin Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76109
The farm-to-table restaurant, which has received awards, blends regional influences to create the perfect rendition of “fine Texas cuisine.” The menu is carefully prepared with locally sourced meats, cheeses, produce, herbs, wild game, and seafood from the Gulf. You can savor your meal in an elegant yet casual atmosphere that captures the essence of Fort Worth.
Zeke’s Fish and Chips
5920 Curzon Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
This casual spot is your go-to for everything seaside, from perfectly fried cod (and every fixin’ in the book) to fresh-made dipping sauces. Don’t forget to start with a bowl of gumbo or clam chowder, but try not to fill up: You’ll want to save room for sweet desserts like the Magic Bar.
Nonna Tata
1400 W Magnolia Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
If you manage to secure a spot at this small restaurant that overlooks Magnolia Avenue, be prepared for a one-of-a-kind experience. The family recipes and handmade pasta dishes are authentic and will transport you to Italy. Remember, it’s a BYOB establishment, so don’t forget to bring the perfect bottle of wine. Additionally, you can pay in Euros if you have any on hand.
Japanese Palace
8445 Camp Bowie, Fort Worth, TX 76116
A Fort Worth landmark since 1975, Japanese Palace has been wowing patrons with flashy displays of culinary showmanship from their Japanese teppanyaki cooking tables. Not in the mood for the grill? Try the expansive sushi and sashimi menu or a bento box.
Joe T. Garcia’s
2201 N Commerce St, Fort Worth, TX 76164
This place holds a special place in the hearts of many Fort Worth locals who have been coming here for years, be it for after-church meals or celebratory parties. While Joe’s is known for its ambiance, the menu does offer some classic dishes, such as sizzling fajitas and strong margaritas, that are sure to pack a punch.
Galligaskins
5817 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Opening in the early ‘70s (technically in Dallas, but with the longest-running location in Fort Worth), the owners sought to bring Boston-style subs to the Lone Star State. The subs are made with house-cut meats and cheese, and the fan-favorite is the cheesesteak sub. The soups are freshly made every day and make a perfect side dish to this hearty fare.
Saint-Emilion
3617 West 7th, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Nestled in the heart of the Fort Worth Cultural District, Saint-Emilion has served classic French fare from escargot to steak au poivre, executed to perfection every time. The charming atmosphere paired with authentic cuisine is an experience worth coming back to.
Lucile’s Stateside Bistro
4700 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Brunch is basically a sport in Texas, and while the players come and go, VIPs like Lucile’s continuously dish out some of the best breakfasts and classic lunch dishes around. Opt for the crowd favorites like eggs Benedict or chicken-fried steak, or try out their new menu items. We hear the fried green tomatoes are worth writing home about.
Los Asaderos
1535 North Main Street, Fort Worth, TX 76164
For more than 30 years, this authentic Mexican restaurant has amassed regulars who come back for the excellent service and recipes straight from the family. When it gets chilly, try the Caldo de Res chased with a margarita on the rocks to feel that all is right with the world again.
Aventino’s Italian
5800 Lovell Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Family-owned Aventino’s has been serving traditional Italian comfort food for more than 40 years. With only 15 tables, this intimate dining space is perfect for an intimate evening with loved ones, though reservations are strongly suggested. Try the Focaccia Mozzarella plus Tortellini Aventino’s, or ask for a recommendation — the staff provides top-notch options for the undecided.
Charley’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers
4616 Granbury Road, Fort Worth, TX 76133
Nestled in a tiny spot on Granbury Road, this burger joint offers more than meets the eye. You’ll find your standard burger fare with some welcome surprises, like the Great Burger (dubbed “Matt’s favorite,” a person we’d like to know), served with double meat, double cheese, Canadian bacon, and bacon. Combine it with some onion rings and some tea or lemonade, and you’ll be transported to a ‘50s drive-in.
Reata Restaurant (Fort Worth)
310 Houston Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102 (Moving to 530 Throckmorton St. in July 2024)
For an experience that looks, feels, and tastes like Texas, visit Reata restaurant for brunch, lunch, or dinner. With four stories and a rooftop bar, you may still have trouble finding a spot during the busiest hours, thanks to its near cult status. Diners rave about the carne asada, tenderloin tamales, and (of course) the chicken-fried steak, but it’s hard to find a miss at this landmark eatery.
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The big picture: 8 of Phoenix’s coolest movie theaters
From state-of-the-art offerings to classic drive-ins, Phoenix offers plenty of ways to take in a show.
Going to the movies is fun again! While the last three years put a damper on the big screen, the last half of 2023 saw Hollywood roar back with a vengeance, thanks to culture-defining events like “Barbenheimer.” Throughout 2024, a slew of action-packed flicks and big-name projects are scheduled to keep moviegoers hooked.
Of course, a great film deserves a great theatrical experience. The Phoenix area is home to more than three dozen theaters, ranging from large chain multiplexes to independent cinemas — there’s even a drive-in for a fun retro night out under the stars.
Whether you’re into the latest Hollywood megahit, arthouse foreign films, or midnight B-movie horror bonanzas, this city has it all. Here are eight of the best places in the Valley to get your film fix.
Fat Cats Mesa
5846 E. Longbow Parkway, Mesa, AZ 85215
More than just a movie theater, Fat Cats is a one-stop playground for family entertainment. Just like other theaters, the eight state-of-the-art auditoriums show first-run films, from G-rated kids’ flicks to R-rated thrillers. But that’s where the similarities stop. Fat Cats also offers an indoor arcade with two-player and virtual reality games, a bowling alley with 20 lanes, and glow-in-the-dark mini golf. Spend an afternoon partaking in some friendly competition, then order dinner at the concession stand — the menu includes kid favorites such as pizza, burgers, and chicken tenders, along with adult-worthy salads, sandwiches, and cauliflower-crust pizzas. Also, Fat Cats Mesa is a Certified Autism Center that fosters an inclusive environment.
Harkins Arizona Mills 18 w/ IMAX
5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Tempe, AZ 85282
This massive theater complex houses 18 auditoriums, all with stadium-style seating and plush electronic reclining lounge chairs. But the biggest attraction here is the six-story-tall IMAX screen — the only 70mm IMAX in Arizona. The giant screen’s advanced digital projection delivers lifelike, crystal-clear 2D and 3D images.
Harkins Moonlight Cinema
7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Arizonans love winter’s cooler weather. And the Harkins Theatres’ Moonlight Cinema series offers a one-of-a-kind movie experience under the stars. The theater hosts an open-air cinema concept on its rooftop every Friday and Saturday during the fall and winter months. Award-winning movies from recent years are projected onto a huge screen while guests recline in beach chairs and listen through high-fidelity stereo headphones. All of the theater’s concessions, including its signature Big Screen Burger, flatbreads, fresh-baked cookies, popcorn, and beverages, are available for purchase.
Landmark Scottsdale Quarter Theatre
15257 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 230, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Celebrating 50 years in 2024, this eight-screen theater showcases Hollywood’s hottest hits, but it is best known for its film series and special screenings of indie and foreign films. Movie buffs can rejoice in seeing epic movies, such as “The Godfather,” “Jaws,” “Serpico,” and “Easy Rider,” on the big screen. Also, there are regular midnight showings of camp classic “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” complete with a live shadow cast.
Majestic Tempe 9
1140 E. Baseline Road, Tempe, AZ 85283
This multiplex, with additional locations in Chandler and Gilbert, regularly showcases repertory films alongside new releases. In addition to cult favorites, anime, and black-and-white film canon staples, the theater chain also screens horror classics as part of its weekly Cinematery series. The food and drink menu offers traditional items, including pizzas, burgers, quesadillas, and nachos. Popcorn flavors range from truffle parmesan and spicy cheddar to churro, while larger dishes include meatballs and goat cheese, Hatch green chile pork stew, and all-day brunch.
Pollack Tempe Cinemas
1825 E. Elliot Road, Tempe, AZ 85284
At Pollack Tempe Cinemas, you can see various films, from recent blockbusters to second-run dramas and family-friendly classics — all for $3.50 per ticket! And Discount Thursdays are only $2.95. The theater recently underwent a $1 million renovation, with upgrades including a remodeled snack bar, games in the lobby, life-size holograms of celebrities, and an extensive collection of movie memorabilia on display. It’s no wonder this theater has been named one of the “Coolest Movie Theaters Across America.”
Roadhouse Cinemas
9090 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
The Scottsdale location of this Arizona-owned and -operated modern multiplex offers in-seat dining but also has a full-service restaurant and bar, where guests can dine before or after a movie. The eight intimate auditoriums plus three tiny screening rooms feature comfortable leather recliners, and food and drinks are brought to your seat with the push of a button. The menu includes a range of comfort dishes, including appetizers, sandwiches, pizza, and desserts. During the cooler fall and winter months, Roadhouse’s outdoor patio transforms into an open-air cinema, with free showings of classic movies every Saturday night.
West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In
5650 N. 55th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85301
In the mid-20th century, Greater Phoenix was home to more than 20 drive-in theaters, thanks to an abundance of open land and year-round mild temps. Today, only one remains, the West Wind Glendale 9. Part of a family-owned and -operated chain with additional theaters in California and Nevada, it opened in 1979 and continues to show first-run movies. Nine screens display crystal-clear digital images, and audio is beamed directly into your car stereo. Audience members can watch while in their cars or enjoy the fresh air while relaxing on folding chairs. A concession stand in the center of the property offers candy, popcorn, sodas, and light bites.
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Where to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day in DFW
People will honor Dr. King’s legacy throughout North Texas.
Each year, on the third Monday in January, the nation celebrates one of the most famous civil rights activists, Martin Luther King Jr., whose contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and enduring legacy continue to shape American society. Across the Metroplex on Jan. 15, there are opportunities to celebrate and honor the principles of Dr. King as communities gather for rallies, events, parades, and more. The day is also federally recognized as the National Day of Service, and local groups offer plenty of ways to give back. Read below to find out how you can mark this momentous day.
Dallas
2024 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Week
Dallasites can participate in a week of events that honor Dr. King’s life and raise visibility about today’s important issues. The main event is the MLK Day Parade, hosted by H.E.L.P. and the City of Dallas, which begins at 10 a.m. on Jan. 15. The procession starts at the Fair Park intersection of Robert B. Cullum Blvd. and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and ends back at Fair Park. More than 250 groups have entered and will celebrate via floats, drill teams, and bands. Other events in this week-long commemoration include a prayer breakfast, job fair, youth summit, candle lighting ceremony, community clean-up day, black-tie scholarship awards gala, and more. See the full calendar of events to see how you can participate.
Arlington
Advancing the Dream Celebration
Arlington’s annual multi-day event is packed with opportunities to serve, celebrate, and see performances from local groups. On Jan. 15, there are three ways to join in:
- The Zeb Strong Jr. MLK Day of Service (9 a.m. to 12 p.m.), where hundreds of volunteers gather at Mission Arlington and embark on projects to help the local community.
- The Day of Service Festival (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.) features story time, step teams, “I Have a Dream” readings, dance performances, and the Army Band of the Southwest.
- The MLK Youth Extravaganza (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.) is held at the Fielder Church Metro Center.
You can enjoy poetry, jazz, step shows, talent showcases, historical exhibits, and more throughout the week. See the full list of events to plan.
Fort Worth
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Parade and Rally 2024
The Greater Fort Worth Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Committee is hosting a parade and rally at 11 a.m. in downtown Fort Worth. There will be floats, classic cars, performances, and more on the route, which concludes at Sundance Square and Plaza. Stay at the Plaza for a community rally, which organizers say “will highlight community unity, the living hope of Dr. King’s dream, and a commitment to justice for all humankind.”
Grand Prairie
Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and Celebration
Head down to Grand Prairie City Hall at 10 a.m. on Jan. 15 to see the annual parade, which stretches from downtown Grand Prairie to David Daniels Elementary School. At 11 a.m., there will also be a celebration at the Dalworth Recreation Center. If you can’t make it to either, purchase tickets for the MLK Gala on Jan. 12 or visit the MLK Expo on Jan. 13, which focuses on health, entrepreneurship, and STEM.
Denton
Join the Denton Park and Recreation Department’s full day of events on Jan. 15, starting at 11 a.m. with a flag football game at Fred Moore Park, followed by a march ending at the MLK Recreation Center, where attendees can enjoy refreshments and community.
Mesquite
Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Community Celebration
The NAACP is hosting a parade starting at 10 a.m. in Downtown Mesquite, followed by a celebration at 1 p.m. at the Mesquite Arts Center, featuring Eddie Tealer, Ph.D., the President of Dallas College – Eastfield.
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