More Fort Worth Food News ― January 2026

Just in time of Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo season, Rodeo & Rye debuts in Arlington. We’ll tell you where to find a proper Sunday roast, and where a few of your favorites are moving soon, in this round of Fort Worth Food News.

Rodeo & Rye

The Arlington spot formerly known as Hayter’s Lounge is now Rodeo & Rye. Its grand opening is January 17, and the hours will be from 11 am to 10 pm. Pitmaster Brandon Hurtado is the new owner, with his Hurtado Barbecue located just next door (one of the area’s best). So, the rebrand comes complete with a new menu featuring some Hurtado magic. Plus, Rodeo & Rye will serve up lively 90s country bar vibes and cold drinks like the Honky Tonk Highball ― a bourbon-based Ranch Water.

A new Cowboy Brisket Bowl has layers of Mexican rice, charro beans, and chopped brisket topped with Oaxaca cheese, cilantro lime crema, and candied jalapeños. And, a new Pork Belly Brisket Grilled Cheese features gooey Gruyère cheese with smoky pork belly, garlic aioli, and candied jalapeños.

Original ChopShop

The healthy eating chain is coming to Fort Worth’s Near Southside. It will be located at the northeast corner of Main Street and Pennsylvania in the Medical District. That’s near Panther City Barbeque and Summer Moon Coffee.

Original ChopShop began in Arizona and is now headquartered in Plano. This will be the 28^th shop nationwide and the 10^th location in North Texas. There is one in Southlake and Alliance as well.

They serve fresh-squeezed juices, protein shakes, and super fruit bowls. The bowls and salads can all be modified to make them your own. One fan favorite is the Thai Coconut Chicken Bowl with peanut sauce. And, the namesake Chopped-in-Shop salads are paired with house-made dressings. You can add grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, or tofu for protein.

The Chumley House

Duro Hospitality’s European-inspired steakhouse, The Chumley House, expands its British flair with a new menu item. They are introducing a Proper Sunday Roast for two. It will be available exclusively on Sundays, during dinner service from 4:30 to 9:30 pm, priced at $150 for two people.

The new Sunday Roast is designed as a shared experience. The roast is a 36-hour slow-cooked prime short rib, paired with a Yorkshire pudding. Accompaniments include crispy marble potatoes dressed in caramelized onion and herb butter, served atop seasoned labneh, harissa-glazed carrots finished with fresh herbs, and a rich mushroom Madeira gravy.

Movers & Shakers

There are some movers and shakers of mention this month, too. Two notable names are on the move to a new location, and one unique take out frozen margarita company has shuttered ― for now.

Loft 22 Cakes

This local stand-out bakery (made famous during Covid for its clever toilet paper cakes) is on the move from its original home in South Main Village. Tareka Lofton was a contestant on Dr. Seuss’ Baking Challenge in 2022, hosted by Tamera Mowery-Housley as well.

While the new home of Loft 22 Cakes is being finalized, don’t worry, you can still order cakes online. Lofton and crew will be working out of a commercial kitchen to keep the creative layer cakes and fancy frostings top-notch.

Bella Italia

Bella Italia is making a big move after decades. It held court at the corner of Camp Bowie and Merrick for a generation (since its opening in 1988).

The famous Italian eatery, by chef Carlo Croci, is a Westside staple featuring wild game like elk, antelope, and ostrich, plus homestyle Italian specialties. According to Camp Bowie District, it’s not closed for good. Bella Italia is just moving into the former Fitzgerald space, in the Ridglea section of Camp Bowie, with a reopening planned for this spring.

Muy Frio Margaritas

For now, the unique frozen margarita company, which was located across from LOCAL Design Studio, has closed. The owners say they are looking for another small spot to reopen and are available for drink catering and deliveries. If you need a margarita machine for an upcoming party or event, help this small business out.

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