When Fort Worth crosses your mind, here's what you should do--pack up the car, put on this playlist and drive until you see the friendly, twinkling lights of Funky Town.
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I like to think that Fort Worth is one of the best kept secrets in the southern US. Even with a growing population of 750,000, the city feels as casual and approachable as a small town. But not to worry, there's still plenty to do. Whether you're an art aficionado, coffee enthusiast, cowboy or foodie, Fort Worth offers a little slice of something for everyone. Here's a guide to my favorite places around Cowtown:
EAT
Railhead BBQ
2900 Montgomery Street
This is a great casual place to get delicious barbecue and watch a football game, sitting under the glow of neon beer signs. I'm also a fan of their cheeky t-shirts that say "Life's too short to live in Dallas."
2900 Montgomery Street
This is a great casual place to get delicious barbecue and watch a football game, sitting under the glow of neon beer signs. I'm also a fan of their cheeky t-shirts that say "Life's too short to live in Dallas."
Thai Select
4630 Southwest Loop 820
Don't be fooled by appearances. This small restaurant may be located in a nondescript strip center, but it's the best, authentic Thai food I've found in Fort Worth.
4630 Southwest Loop 820
Don't be fooled by appearances. This small restaurant may be located in a nondescript strip center, but it's the best, authentic Thai food I've found in Fort Worth.
King Tut
1512 West Magnolia Avenue
I first visited this restaurant after returning from a trip to Egypt with an appetite for Mediterranean cuisine. The owner is so sweet and eager to share stories about his homeland. The entrees are flavorful and well-priced. My favorite thing about the restaurant is the cheesy decorations--including kitschy tablecloths and golden sphinxes.
Spiral Diner & Bakery
1314 West Magnolia Avenue
A cool vegan restaurant that you don't have to be vegan to like. The decor is fun & they've got a great drink menu. Don't try to go on a Monday because they're closed "for a day of rest."
Shinjuku Station
711 West Magnolia Avenue
Named after the famous train station in Tokyo, this Japanese restaurant has a memorable ambiance and menu. Order "tapas style" and try the roasted shishito peppers and seaweed salad. Request to sit outside if the weather is fair and if you have to wait, order a drink by the bar. It's fun to watch the bartenders make the specialty cocktails right in front of you. I highly recommend the Shinjuku Old-Fashioned.
Esperanza's
2122 N Main St
Anyone from Fort Worth will tell you that Joe T. Garcia's is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. When it comes to atmosphere, I have to agree, but as far as food is concerned, I actually prefer their sister restaurant next door. Esperanza's has a bakery with hard to find Mexican pastries, and their breakfast is terrific. I always order the migas.
1512 West Magnolia Avenue
I first visited this restaurant after returning from a trip to Egypt with an appetite for Mediterranean cuisine. The owner is so sweet and eager to share stories about his homeland. The entrees are flavorful and well-priced. My favorite thing about the restaurant is the cheesy decorations--including kitschy tablecloths and golden sphinxes.
Spiral Diner & Bakery
1314 West Magnolia Avenue
A cool vegan restaurant that you don't have to be vegan to like. The decor is fun & they've got a great drink menu. Don't try to go on a Monday because they're closed "for a day of rest."
Shinjuku Station
711 West Magnolia Avenue
Named after the famous train station in Tokyo, this Japanese restaurant has a memorable ambiance and menu. Order "tapas style" and try the roasted shishito peppers and seaweed salad. Request to sit outside if the weather is fair and if you have to wait, order a drink by the bar. It's fun to watch the bartenders make the specialty cocktails right in front of you. I highly recommend the Shinjuku Old-Fashioned.
2122 N Main St
Anyone from Fort Worth will tell you that Joe T. Garcia's is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. When it comes to atmosphere, I have to agree, but as far as food is concerned, I actually prefer their sister restaurant next door. Esperanza's has a bakery with hard to find Mexican pastries, and their breakfast is terrific. I always order the migas.
The Woodshed
3201 Riverfront Drive
The latest venture of local celebrity chef, Tim Love, this smokehouse is perfectly nestled on the Trinity River. It boasts a menu of salads, sandwiches, tacos, barbecue, and family-style dishes. The patio is the ideal place to enjoy one of the 25 craft beers on tap with friends, and there is often live music in the evenings.
3201 Riverfront Drive
The latest venture of local celebrity chef, Tim Love, this smokehouse is perfectly nestled on the Trinity River. It boasts a menu of salads, sandwiches, tacos, barbecue, and family-style dishes. The patio is the ideal place to enjoy one of the 25 craft beers on tap with friends, and there is often live music in the evenings.
Food Trucks
Both the Fort Worth Food Park and Cowtown Chow Down have a rotating schedule of food trucks, live music events, and free wifi. If you want a quick and cheap eat that's also unusual, check out the hours and schedule on their websites.
Both the Fort Worth Food Park and Cowtown Chow Down have a rotating schedule of food trucks, live music events, and free wifi. If you want a quick and cheap eat that's also unusual, check out the hours and schedule on their websites.
Fuzzy's Taco Shop
2917 West Berry Street
Maybe I just love this place because it was one of my old college haunts, but their fish tacos are really amazing, topped with feta, cilantro, and tomatoes. Order chips & queso for the table--you won't be sorry.
2917 West Berry Street
Maybe I just love this place because it was one of my old college haunts, but their fish tacos are really amazing, topped with feta, cilantro, and tomatoes. Order chips & queso for the table--you won't be sorry.
DRINK
The Flying Saucer
111 East 3rd Street
Admittedly, I haven't been here since they moved from the historic Land Title Block building, but their beer selection is unbeatable. (It's the only place in town I can find my favorite German schwarzbier.) They offer daily specials and trivia night is on Tuesdays.
111 East 3rd Street
Admittedly, I haven't been here since they moved from the historic Land Title Block building, but their beer selection is unbeatable. (It's the only place in town I can find my favorite German schwarzbier.) They offer daily specials and trivia night is on Tuesdays.
The Library Bar
611 Houston Street
I don't enjoy the weekend crowd at the Library, but if you're up for some Tuesday night socializing, go play "Not Your Grandma's Bingo" at 10 pm and drink $1 Tecates.
Embargo
210 East 8th Street
You either love it or hate it, but this latin club's mojitos are legendary. They also sponsor free salsa lessons for those of us who are rhythmically challenged and dance competitions for those who aren't.
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar
621 Houston Street
Always a crowd-pleaser, Pete's is a fun place for big groups or if you just feel like a good old-fashioned sing-along.
Capital Bar
3017 Morton Street
When the weather is nice, the backyard is the place to see and be seen. Live music or DJ, there is always musical entertainment and dancing at Capital. No cover charge on Wednesday and Thursday.
Bar Louie
2973 West 7th Street
Bar Louie is usually crowded, but the atmosphere is chill. The cocktails are pricey but delicious. Though the rooftop bar no longer offers much of a view, it's still picturesque and nice on a summer night.
Rahr & Sons Brewery
611 Houston Street
I don't enjoy the weekend crowd at the Library, but if you're up for some Tuesday night socializing, go play "Not Your Grandma's Bingo" at 10 pm and drink $1 Tecates.
Embargo
210 East 8th Street
You either love it or hate it, but this latin club's mojitos are legendary. They also sponsor free salsa lessons for those of us who are rhythmically challenged and dance competitions for those who aren't.
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar
621 Houston Street
Always a crowd-pleaser, Pete's is a fun place for big groups or if you just feel like a good old-fashioned sing-along.
Capital Bar
3017 Morton Street
When the weather is nice, the backyard is the place to see and be seen. Live music or DJ, there is always musical entertainment and dancing at Capital. No cover charge on Wednesday and Thursday.
Bar Louie
2973 West 7th Street
Bar Louie is usually crowded, but the atmosphere is chill. The cocktails are pricey but delicious. Though the rooftop bar no longer offers much of a view, it's still picturesque and nice on a summer night.
Rahr & Sons Brewery
701 Galveston Avenue
A local brewery that offers tours, events, and collectible pint glasses.
A local brewery that offers tours, events, and collectible pint glasses.
BE MERRY
Blue Mesa
1600 S. University Drive
The best bargain for Happy Hour. $4 drinks and a free quesadilla & nacho bar that doesn't skimp on portions. Get there early; the patio is always packed.
1600 S. University Drive
The best bargain for Happy Hour. $4 drinks and a free quesadilla & nacho bar that doesn't skimp on portions. Get there early; the patio is always packed.
2600 West 7th Street #175
The best margaritas in town and a Happy Hour that lasts all day Monday-Thursday. They should just call it Happy Days.
The best margaritas in town and a Happy Hour that lasts all day Monday-Thursday. They should just call it Happy Days.
WAKE UP
Avoca Coffee
1311 West Magnolia Avenue
This is my go-to coffee place in Fort Worth. There are just enough seats and outlets to accommodate busy bodies on their laptops, and the coffee is amazing. Did I mention they often have free samples of Dude, Sweet Chocolate? Coffee, free wifi, AND chocolate! I think I'll just move in, thanks.
Paris Coffee Shop
704 West Magnolia Avenue
Not a coffee shop at all. It's actually a diner with a cheap and delicious breakfast menu. Very southern--think cheesy grits and biscuits with gravy. I include it here, because the drip coffee is surprisingly good.
1311 West Magnolia Avenue
This is my go-to coffee place in Fort Worth. There are just enough seats and outlets to accommodate busy bodies on their laptops, and the coffee is amazing. Did I mention they often have free samples of Dude, Sweet Chocolate? Coffee, free wifi, AND chocolate! I think I'll just move in, thanks.
Paris Coffee Shop
704 West Magnolia Avenue
Not a coffee shop at all. It's actually a diner with a cheap and delicious breakfast menu. Very southern--think cheesy grits and biscuits with gravy. I include it here, because the drip coffee is surprisingly good.
Buon Giorno Coffee
915 Florence Street
A favorite of students and local musicians, Buon Giorno also makes a really mean cup of coffee. And by mean, I mean sensational.
Stay Wired
2918 West Berry Street
915 Florence Street
A favorite of students and local musicians, Buon Giorno also makes a really mean cup of coffee. And by mean, I mean sensational.
Stay Wired
2918 West Berry Street
What this coffee house lacks in charm, it makes up for in a really smooth cappuccino. Also a computer repair shop, they can fix your laptop while you sip your coffee.
BRUNCH
Blue Mesa
1600 S. University Drive
Yes, the same place that is famous for its happy hour also has an incredibe Sunday brunch. The buffet is $18.95 for adults and $6.95 for children, but it includes an overwhelming spread of southwestern food as well as bottomless mimosas.
1600 S. University Drive
Yes, the same place that is famous for its happy hour also has an incredibe Sunday brunch. The buffet is $18.95 for adults and $6.95 for children, but it includes an overwhelming spread of southwestern food as well as bottomless mimosas.
2418 Forest Park Blvd
The first time I went to Sunday brunch at Sapristi, I opened the door to hear laughter and glasses clinking--always a good sign. The food is delicious and worth the occasional splurge. And no brunch is complete without a mimosa or bellini--both are good here.
SHOP
Stella's
3460 Bluebonnet Circle
Named after an adorable Jack Russell terrier, Stella's is a "shop of shops" and a great place to find unique jewelry and clothing.
3460 Bluebonnet Circle
Named after an adorable Jack Russell terrier, Stella's is a "shop of shops" and a great place to find unique jewelry and clothing.
Beehive
5122 Camp Bowie Blvd
A trendy boutique with the latest styles at prices that won't break the bank.
5122 Camp Bowie Blvd
A trendy boutique with the latest styles at prices that won't break the bank.
Cattle Barn Flea Market
Cattle Barn #1, Will Rogers Complex on Gendy St & Harley Ave
A true flea market inside a historic cattle barn, this weekly event defines everything I love about Fort Worth--it's hip, yet unpretentious. Stop in on Saturday or Sunday for bargains on costume jewelry, collectibles, old trunks, you name it.
Cattle Barn #1, Will Rogers Complex on Gendy St & Harley Ave
A true flea market inside a historic cattle barn, this weekly event defines everything I love about Fort Worth--it's hip, yet unpretentious. Stop in on Saturday or Sunday for bargains on costume jewelry, collectibles, old trunks, you name it.
Montgomery Antique Mall
2601 Montgomery Street
This antique house is massive with over 240 vendors. Anyone from avid collectors to casual browsers will find a souvenir to take home.
2601 Montgomery Street
This antique house is massive with over 240 vendors. Anyone from avid collectors to casual browsers will find a souvenir to take home.
PLAY
The Stockyards
Directions here.
No visit to Fort Worth is complete without a trip to the historic Stockyards. It's where Fort Worth gets its nickname, Cowtown. Watch the cattle drive, explore the maze, and shop for cowboy boots and souvenirs.
Billy Bob's Texas
2520 Rodeo Plaza
Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
3400 Burnett Tandy Dr
Kimbell Art Museum
3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
My favorite art museum in Fort Worth, the Kimbell has an impressive permanent collection, world famous rotating exhibitions, and a delicious lunch buffet.
Directions here.
No visit to Fort Worth is complete without a trip to the historic Stockyards. It's where Fort Worth gets its nickname, Cowtown. Watch the cattle drive, explore the maze, and shop for cowboy boots and souvenirs.
2520 Rodeo Plaza
Step inside the world's largest honky tonk and reaffirm all the stereotypes you have of Texas. Learn to two-step, watch the bull riders, and catch a concert inside the dancehall where music legends were born. Billy Bob's is like its own world, but everyone must experience it once.
Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
3400 Burnett Tandy Dr
Established in 1896, the FWSS&R is one of the oldest around. It's definitely worth checking out if you're visiting in January or February.
3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
My favorite art museum in Fort Worth, the Kimbell has an impressive permanent collection, world famous rotating exhibitions, and a delicious lunch buffet.
Trinity Trails
The Trinity River runs right through the heart of Fort Worth and right alongside is 40 miles worth of trails for walking, jogging, or cycling. Many improvements and projects are being planned for the Trinity River, so I imagine it will be an even cooler area 5-10 years from now.
The Botanic Garden
3220 Botanic Garden Boulevard
The Trinity River runs right through the heart of Fort Worth and right alongside is 40 miles worth of trails for walking, jogging, or cycling. Many improvements and projects are being planned for the Trinity River, so I imagine it will be an even cooler area 5-10 years from now.
The Botanic Garden
3220 Botanic Garden Boulevard
Escape from the city. Pack a picnic, fly a kite, or throw around a frisbee on the lawns of this 109-acre park. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is the oldest in Texas and the perfect place to take a walk or lie in the grass with a good book.
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I recently returned from a weekend trip to the Fort to say "see you later" to my college friends and old stomping ground. Saying goodbye to the city that had become my home was not easy, and I know I will miss many of the places I've listed here in this guide. Even though I'm off to a new destination right now, I like to believe I'll be back one day--maybe even permanently. Happy trails to you, Fort Worth, until we meet again.
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