DFW has been home to some of the oldest restaurants in North Texas that have become iconic staples in the community. From Tex-Mex joints to cozy cafes, these eateries have been serving up delicious dishes for decades, dating back to the early 1900s. Let’s take a look at eight of the longest-standing restaurants in Dallas-Fort Worth that continue to satisfy hungry diners to this day.
El Fenix: Founded in 1918 by Miguel Martinez, El Fenix is often credited with popularizing Tex-Mex cuisine in North Texas. With multiple locations across the region, this restaurant has been a favorite for generations, serving up classic dishes like enchiladas and tacos. Not really sure why this matters, but Miguel actually started Martinez Cafe before El Fenix took off, back in 1916.
Paris Coffee Shop: Established in 1926 by Vic Paris, this Fort Worth gem has been dishing out comforting comfort food for over a century. The cafe changed hands over the years but remained a beloved spot for locals. Maybe it’s just me, but the fact that it was renovated and reopened in 2022 after being sold in 2021 is pretty interesting.
The Original Mexican Eats Cafe: A Fort Worth institution since 1926, this family-owned restaurant has a rich history, with former President Franklin D. Roosevelt even dining there in the 1930s. Their signature dish, the “Roosevelt special,” continues to be a crowd favorite. Who knew that a presidential visit could lead to a menu item that stands the test of time?
Carshon’s Deli: Since 1928, Carshon’s Deli has been serving up delicious kosher deli fare to the Fort Worth community. Founded by Jewish immigrant David Carshon and his wife, Ella, the deli has moved locations over the years but has maintained its commitment to quality food. Not really sure why this matters, but their move to Cleburne Road in the 1970s marked a new chapter for this longtime establishment.
Joe T. Garcia’s: A beloved Tex-Mex spot near the Fort Worth Stockyards, Joe T. Garcia’s has been a family-owned institution since 1935. Known for its famous patio and margaritas, this restaurant has expanded over the years to accommodate its growing popularity. Who knew that a small dining room could turn into a hotspot for celebrities visiting Cowtown?
El Chico: Another pioneer in bringing Tex-Mex cuisine to the masses, El Chico opened its first Dallas location in 1940. Founded by Adelaida Cuellar, this neighborhood spot quickly became a favorite among locals for its authentic flavors. Maybe it’s just me, but starting out selling tamales at a county fair seems like a humble beginning for such a popular restaurant.
Campisi’s: Touted as the home of Dallas’ first pizza, Campisi’s has been a favorite spot for Italian cuisine since 1946. Started by Italian immigrants Carlo and Antonia Campisi, this restaurant has grown over the years to include multiple locations across DFW. Not really sure why this matters, but the fact that they got one of the first liquor licenses in Texas after prohibition is pretty impressive.
Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse: Originally opened in 1958 by Sonny Bryan, this smokehouse has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue for over six decades. With a rich family history in the restaurant business, Sonny Bryan’s has become a go-to spot for delicious smoked meats. Maybe it’s just me, but the Bryan family sure knows how to cook up some tasty barbecue.
These restaurants have stood the test of time, becoming beloved landmarks in the Dallas-Fort Worth dining scene. With their rich histories and delicious menus, it’s no wonder they continue to attract diners from near and far. Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex, comfort food, or barbecue, these long-standing establishments have something for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for a taste of history, be sure to check out one of these iconic eateries in North Texas.
