Favorite Dallas Restaurants Closed This July

Rising Challenges in Dallas' Restaurant Scene

Dallas, a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle and ever-changing culinary landscape, has seen a number of restaurant closures recently. These changes reflect the challenges faced by local businesses, from shifting consumer preferences to financial pressures and personal decisions by owners. Here's a look at some of the most notable closures and what they reveal about the current state of dining in the area.

CBD Provisions: A Temporary Hiatus with a Return Plan

One of the restaurants associated with the Joule hotel, CBD Provisions, will be closing for a period of time to undergo a redesign and menu update. The establishment, which opened over a decade ago, plans to return in 2026 with an enhanced design and a reimagined approach to its offerings. This move highlights the ongoing effort by many restaurants to stay relevant and meet evolving customer expectations.

Niwa BBQ: A Closure Amid Neighborhood Struggles

Niwa BBQ, a popular spot in Deep Ellum known for its Asian barbecue served at the table, announced its closure after nine years of operation. While the exact reasons for the closure were not explicitly stated, the news comes amid what is being referred to as a “state of emergency” in the neighborhood. Deep Ellum has experienced a mix of growth and decline, with new businesses moving in and long-standing local favorites struggling to keep up with rising crime rates and changing foot traffic patterns.

CheapSteaks: A Shift in Focus

Another Deep Ellum staple, CheapSteaks, closed at the end of June. One of its three owners, Jeff Beihler, has taken over the space and plans to reopen it as Dusty’s. Unlike the previous concept, which combined cheap steaks with live music, the new venture will focus more on DJ performances, with food playing a secondary role. The menu may be limited to just a hamburger and a hot dog, signaling a significant shift in the restaurant’s identity.

Red Stix: A Strategic Move

Chef Uno Immanivong announced the closure of the University Cities location of Red Stix on July 13. While no specific reason was given, she confirmed that the Farmer’s Branch location remains open. Additionally, she plans to open a catering and test kitchen soon. The closure of this six-year-old location suggests a strategic decision to streamline operations and explore new opportunities.

Staycation Coffee: A Complex Closure

Staycation Coffee, one of the Metroplex’s most beloved coffee shops, surprised its customers by announcing a planned closure in September. The shop had been working on relocating to a new location but instead opted for a temporary “hiatus.” The owner cited health issues, financial strain, and a sudden lease termination as key factors. The situation also involved a miscommunication regarding city funding, which complicated their relocation plans. Despite the closure, there is hope for a potential return in the future.

Swank: A New Chapter

Chef Luke Rogers left his restaurant on Beckley Avenue after his lease with local legend Sharon Van Meter expired. He has decided not to renew the lease and is seeking a larger space for his new venture. The new restaurant will be located half a mile away near White Rock Brewing Company, though the opening date has not yet been announced.

Brix Barbecue: A Change in Direction

Brix Barbecue, a well-known barbecue joint featured on Texas Monthly’s top 50 list for 2025, will close both its Fort Worth and Dallas locations on August 17. Owner Trevor Sales shared on Facebook that while he loves the barbecue business, he has decided to move on due to changes in his personal life and career. He plans to continue cooking through his private dining concept, Tallow, indicating that this may not be the end of the brand.

Bodacious Bar-B-Q: A Legacy Ends

After 34 years of operation, Bodacious Bar-B-Q in Arlington is closing early in August. The closure is attributed to the lease not being renewed. However, the other locations in Tyler, Kilgore, and Sulphur Springs, which are independently owned, will remain open. The owner of the Arlington location hopes to find a new location to continue the legacy.

OG Cellars: A Short-Lived Venture

OG Cellars, a wine bar in Grapevine, closed its doors at the end of June after only a year in business. In a Facebook post, the owners stated that the current economic climate made it unsustainable to continue operating. This closure underscores the challenges faced by small businesses, even in areas with a strong cultural presence.

These closures highlight the dynamic nature of Dallas’ restaurant scene and the various factors that influence the success or failure of a business. From personal decisions to economic pressures, each story adds to the broader narrative of change and adaptation in the city.