Al Biernat's Oak Lawn, Dallas restaurant closes, but plans new location

Dallas institution shutters after 21 years in Oak Lawn, eyes new location in the Design District

The beloved neighborhood spot known for its upscale comfort food and extensive craft beer selection has closed its doors in Oak Lawn after more than two decades, but plans are in the works for a new location in the Design District.

Al Biernat's, a fixture in the Oak Lawn dining scene for 21 years, closed its doors at 4217 Oak Lawn Ave. on Sunday, January 15, 2023, according to a statement from the restaurant's ownership group, the Front Burner Restaurant Group. The closure comes after months of speculation about the restaurant's future, as the Oak Lawn area has undergone significant change in recent years.

In a statement, Front Burner Restaurant Group said that the decision to close Al Biernat's Oak Lawn was "difficult" but that it was the "right decision for the long-term health of the brand." The group also said that it is "actively looking for a new location in the Design District" and that it hopes to open the new Al Biernat's "later this year."

Al Biernat's was founded in 2001 by restaurateur Al Biernat, who died in 2018. The restaurant quickly became a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its upscale comfort food menu, which featured dishes such as the signature chicken-fried steak, meatloaf, and fried green tomatoes.

In addition to its food, Al Biernat's was also known for its extensive craft beer selection, which featured more than 100 different beers on tap. The restaurant was also a popular spot for live music, with local and national acts performing regularly.

The closure of Al Biernat's Oak Lawn is a loss for the Dallas dining scene, but the restaurant's plans for a new location in the Design District are a sign that the brand is still going strong. The new location will be larger than the Oak Lawn location and will feature a similar menu and craft beer selection.