SUNDANCE SQUARE STOCKYARDS CULTURAL DISTRICT NEAR SOUTHSIDE
Y OUR P ASSPORT T O C ENTER C IT Y L IFE
July 2009
Your Guide to a
m e m r u S AY c T at i o n S
Fun in the Stockyards | Worthington Bank | IMAX at the Omni | Police & FireямБghters Memorial
INSIDE
Summer Staycation Your guide for Fort Worth summer fun ....................
Stockyards Where to have fun in & out of the sun ....................
Worthington Bank Bank responsibly.....................................................
The Foodie Pages
6 7
Table Scout ................................................. 10 You Gotta Try This......................................... 10 Beat the Clock ............................................ 11
IMAX at the Omni
Great summer features..........................................
Police & Firefighters Memorial
12
13 July Entertainment What’s going on around Cowtown ........................ 14 Dedication for fallen heros .....................................
JULY • 2009 DOWNTOWN FW is a free monthly publication distributed in the Fort Worth center city, and supported by the downtown Public Improvement District. The entire contents of DOWNTOWN FW are copyright 2005 by DFWI and JSW Publishing. NO portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the express written permission of the publication. DFWI Mission Statement To be the catalyst for transforming Downtown Fort Worth into a vibrant place to live, visit, enjoy and conduct
business through aggressive leadership of programs, projects and partnerships.
The Pl a ce ToIn Downtown Live
4
Andy Taft, President 777 Taylor St., Suite 100 • Fort Worth, Texas 76102 817-870-1692 • www.dfwi.org Editor Stacey Pierce, Director of Marketing and Communications Downtown Fort Worth, Inc. • stacey@dfwi.org Advertising Director Kristen Jenkins Marketing Director Dana Crumbliss-Mariani JSW Publishing 817-321-9724 Business/Operations Trish Bermejo Art Director/Layout Editor Amy Royer
The
Depot Lofts 555 Elm Street 866-641-6535
www.thedepotapts.com myspace.com/thedepotlofts Mon - Thurs: 10am - 6pm Fri & Sat 10am - 5pm Sunday 1pm - 5pm
URBAN LIVING on the PARK
What’s So Hot at So7? The Summer Sales Release of our ArtHouse Loft condominiums is soon to be in full swing.
downtown fort worth
j u ly 2 0 0 9
Here’s a sneak peek to heat things up – select homes will be value priced between $20K and $80K OFF the previous prices. With interest rates at some of the lowest levels in history, now is the time to buy!
2
Don’t delay, the So7 Summer Sales Release is for a limited time only. So call or come visit us today at our Sales Center located at 2604 Museum Way across from Montgomery Plaza.
LOFTS Model Homes Now Open VALUE PRICED This is not an offer to sell, nor a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state $20K - $80K OFF or province in whichrestrictions and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. This advertisement is void where prohibited by law. The prices, plans, amenities, availability IT’S GETTING HOT and improvements shown are subject to change without notice. All pictures, photographs, and images are owned or licensed by Playground Destination Properties Inc., Broker or its affiliates. Any use, reproduction or distribution of pictures, photographs, and images without IN HERE! written permission is expressly prohibited.
817-885-7700 If you haven’t already had the chance, check out So7 online at www.sosevenfortworth.com/sohot
Experience the Near Southside... Experience the Near Southside... The best dining & entertainment Fort Worth has to offer The best summer fun Fort Worth has to offer. Se 5 June 7 Fort Worth South, Inc.Oc pt. 4 . t. 2 Aug presents
FIRSTFRIDAY ONTHEGREEN Bring your family, blankets, chairs, pets & friends for the latest in a series of live music events at Magnolia Green Park.
Magnolia Avenue & Park Place Restaurants Friday, April 3rd Show Starts @ 6pm Food & beverages available. No outside coolers/containers please.
Admission is Free however we ask that everyone donate a can of food for the Tarrant Area Food Bank.
Center
special thanks to our April Sponsors
the
for
Healing Arts
1100 Block of Lipscomb (between Rosedale & Magnolia)
www.centerforthehealingarts.net
Urban Living: Lofts, Townhomes, & Bungalows Fort Worth South, Inc. www.fortworthsouth.org 817-923-1343
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm • Closed Sunday
1622 Park Place Ave • Fort Worth, TX 76110 817-9CHADRA (817-924-2372) chadramezza.com
••••••••••• Fort Worth South, Inc. www.fortworthsouth.org•••••••••••
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
Relax on our herb-filled patio, or enjoy FREE HUMMUS at the bar during HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 4pm-7pm
j u ly, 2 0 0 9
A Taste of the Mediterranean
3
m m e u r S
P
lanning a “staycation” doesn’t mean investing in a plastic backyard pool or loading up on movie rentals. The key to a great staycation is to treat it like a regular vacation - plan ahead and set aside time to enjoy yourself. You may not be heading to an airport, but you can still pack up your bags and follow a fun-filled itinerary right here in Fort Worth. We’ve made it easy and mapped out four perfect staycation schedules for your summertime pleasure.
Y A c T a tio n S
Stay
Play
Eat
SUNDANCE SQUARE
Take advantage of The Ashton Hotel’s “Summer Stay and Save” special and enjoy overnight accommodations and breakfast for two for $179. Listed on the National Register of Historical Places, this luxury boutique hotel provides a charming getaway well-suited for couples or girlfriend groups. Get tickets to a show at Four Day Weekend, the improvisational comedy venue that involves the audience in the fun. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.
downtown fort worth
j u ly 2 0 0 9
Go where the locals go for the best, freshest seafood in town - Daddy Jack’s. Specializing in New England-style seafood with a dash of Texas Style, Daddy Jack’s will give you the sense of being on a beautiful oceanfront vacation.
4
A Mambo Taxi. Summer calls for lots of lounging in the sun with a cold libation in hand, whether on the beach or on the patio at Mi Cocina. Plan for this one before a night out. People watching on Main Street is prime at dusk. Buy your souvenirs at Leddy’s Ranch, whether it’s a shiny belt buckle to commemorate your Sundance Square stay, or a super cute dress to show off when you return home. Bring Fort Worth-themed trinkets back to your friends from Retro Cowboy, including t-shirts, key chains and postcards. Plan for a movie at the AMC Palace 9 Theatre, pizza at Uno Chicago Grill followed by ice cream at Marble Slab Creamery. Grab a slice at Uno Chicago Grill.
Drink
Shop
For the
Kids
SOUTH DOWNTOWN
At the Omni, of course. With amazing balcony views, a rooftop pool and bar and world-class dining, you’re staycation could end here if desired.
Try one of South downtown’s elite spas for a day. At the Shertaon’s BeauBelle, exfoliate your stress away with the Hydro Therapy Salt Scrub, which includes a relaxing Vichy shower and essential oil massage. At the Omni’s Mokara spa, located on the pool level of the hotel, get polished with the Sweet Tea Body Gloss treatment. Finish with the Texas Pecan and Brown Sugar Manicure and Ruby Red grapefruit pedicure. At Bob’s Steak and Chop House in the Omni Hotel. Enjoy prime steaks and grab a drink after at the hotel’s bar, Whiskey and Rye. A visit downtown is not complete without a stop at Zambrano Wine Cellar. Let sommelier Cef Zambrano recommend a crisp white wine perfect for sipping on his quaint street-side patio. Find eclectic goods at the Kimbell Museum gift shop, located on the Omni’s first floor. The Omni offers a “Summer Weekend Family Package” for only $112 per night with a two night minimum. Plenty of The deal includes an Omni Kids bag of goodies wine-ing at and milk and cookies at turndown. Don’t Zambrano forget to hop on Molly the Trolley, downtown wine Cellar. Fort Worth’s newest shuttle service, and ride around downtown with ease! (On Saturdays Molly makes stops in the Stockyards, perfect for catching a glimpse of Fort Worth’s cattle drive.)
CULTURAL DISTRICT
Enjoy fresh seafood at daddy Jacks.
Book a room at the new Residence Inn on Museum Way and be close to Fort Worth’s rapidly developing Seventh Street corridor, including Montgomery Plaza and So7. Explore five renowned museums all within walking distance - Amon Carter Museum, Kimbell Art Museum, Modern Art Museum, National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Many of the museums offer free or discounted admission on certain days, as well as classes and fun after-hours events. Recently featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, a visit to Fort Worth is not complete without a stop at Fred’s Texas Café. Take your Fredburger outside on the patio that’s as comfortable as your own backyard and enjoy live, local music. A frosty schooner at Angelo’s, which is the coldest in Fort Worth, hands down. This legendary barbecue joint hasn’t changed their style since Angelo George opened it in 1958.
we all scream for Marble Slab ice cream! Kick up your heels in a new pair of boots from the Justin outlet Store.
Find staycation keepsakes at the shops on Foch Street, including Milagros Frames and Gifts, offering unique jewelry, gifts and home décor. For the guys, visit Backwoods on Seventh Street, where fishermen and outdoorsmen will find canteens, outerwear, kayaks and fishing flies. Spend a day at the Fort Worth Zoo. Parents and children alike will be fascinated with the lush wildlife and scenery that has made the Fort Worth Zoo one of the top-rated in the nation.
Unique jewelry & gifts from Milagros frames and Gifts.
Get great gifts at the Kimbell Gift Shop.
FORT WORTH SOUTH
Some are surprised to find bed and breakfasts right here in Fort Worth, including the Texas White House located on 8th Avenue. While there’s no Oval Office, there is a “Longhorn Suite,” where guests will feel very presidential kicking up their boots in noble fashion. The Texas White House was deemed by one guest as “fit for visiting royalty,” and with elegant amenities such as the inviting wraparound porch, formal dining room and even an in-room, two-person sauna, it’s hard to disagree.
Magnolia Avenue is quickly becoming restaurant row and choosing one dining option is difficult, but for our staycation, we love Scampi’s Mediterranean Café. Open for lunch and dinner; stop by for their new Italian nachos with homemade pasta chips, signature creamy Alfred sauce, grated Parmesan, Italian sausage, banana peppers, and Kalamata olives. Scampi’s is BYOB except for Thursdays when they serve you complimentary wine with your meal. Spend your Saturday afternoon visiting Fort Worth’s award winning Rahr Brewery. You won’t be alone. More than 600 locals visit the brewery weekly beginning at 1 p.m. for live music, barbecue and tastings. Put this stop at the top of your itinerary. Bring home a pair of boots the Justin Outlet Store, one of Fort Worth’s oldest and most respected brand names. Give the little ones some fresh air and take them to Fort Worth’s Fire Station Park. Located on the edge of the historic Fairmount district, the park features a playground and plenty of room for a picnic. For indoor fun, register the kids for a children’s art class at Arts Fifth Avenue.
or pamer yourself at Sheraton’s BeauBelle of omni’s Mokara Spa.
j u ly 2 0 0 9
relax with a cold one at Angelos...
Take a dance, music or art class at Arts Fifth Avenue, the unique performing arts center located in the heart of the Fairmount District.
downtown fort worth
Go wild at the fort worth Zoo.
5
T
here may be no better spot in town to enjoy summer than the Stockyards. When the sun ducks behind the clouds for a bit, you can window shop at any one of the dozens of retailers near the intersection of Exchange Avenue and Main Street on the North Side. When the sun feels like it’s right on your shoulder, there are a few dozen dining and entertainment options that have functional A.C. units and aren’t afraid to use them. The Stockyards’ nightlife scene Kick up your heels in the Stockyards. has never been better, which is saying a lot considering the long, storied history of Stockyards nightlife. (The Fort, after all, is where the Wild West began.) We all know how great East Exchange Avenue is. Most of the clubs there have been in business for a long time. One of the most legendary is the White Elephant Saloon, whose walls are still covered in dozens of cowboy hats and, based mainly on the happy-hour and weekend crowds, is as popular as ever. Both kinds of music – country and western – can be heard live seven nights a week. Legends such as Leon Russell, Don Williams, Billy Joe Shaver, Roy Clark, Red Steagall, and Charlie Daniels have graced the stage at the White Elephant, along with numerous Fort Worth boys, including Stephen Pointer, Tommy Alverson, and Brad Hines, who still oversees the regular open-mic there. Another hot East Exchange spot is Booger Red’s Saloon, located next door to the celebrated H3 Ranch restaurant. Named after legendary bronc-buster Samuel Thomas Privett (1858-1926), Booger Red’s has been a go-to spot since 1984 and offers a wide variety of cigars, wines, spirits, domestic and imported beers, and reportedly Fort Worth’s “most complete” array of tequilas. Feelin’ brave? Try one of the saloon’s signature drinks, either a “Anita Rita” margarita or a 16-oz. Buffalo Butt Beer. Each bottle o’ Buffalo Butt is served in an iced bucket. Enjoy your drink on their saddle barstools for a real western experience. As dependable as East Exchange is, it’s not the only game in town. The nightlife on West Exchange has improved dramatically, thanks to the addition of several new nightclubs, including the Longhorn Saloon. As big as a barn and decked out with one of the best sound systems in all of Fort Worth, the Longhorn has been hosting some of
the most powerful C&W and alt-country bands from here to Austin. Recent performers include Billy Joe Shaver, Charlie Louvin, Hank Williams III, and many more. Two doors down, and a few steps downstairs, is Lola’s Saloon-Stockyards, the companion club to Lola’s Saloon-Sixth in the West 7th Street corridor. Lola’s Stockyards, located right below the stalwart Star Café, is a delightful spot for happy hour or a nightcap. The red velvet drapery, black accents, and dim lighting lend Lola’s-Stockyards the feel of a cowboy speakeasy. No password required. Across the street is another relatively new establishment, Filthy McNasty’s. A livemusic venue that’s neither filthy nor nasty but clean and friendly, the cavernous Filthy’s regularly hosts a mix of cover and original bands, and the dancefloor is bigger ’an half o’ Texas. Don’t be fooled: The old West Exchange standbys are still going strong. Honkytonk, old-timey C&W, and Western Swing still swing at Pearl’s Dancehall Saloon, and Rodeo Exchange still claims to have the best drink prices in town. During happy hour, all domestic longnecks are $1.75. Domestic longnecks – and margaritas – are $1.75 on ladies’ nights (Thursdays and Fridays), and on Saturday nights, happy hour goes all the way ‘til 9 p.m. Free dance lessons on Tuesday nights, starting at 7:30 p.m. West Exchange is also home to the Cantina Cadillac, open Thursday through Sunday. And don’t forget Rodeo Plaza, home of the Neon Moon Saloon (a party spot for the young crowd) and, of course, Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk. A murderer’s row of talent is slated to play there this summer, including Joe Ely (July 3), Diamond Rio (July 4), Johnny Cooper (July 10), Eddie Money (July 11), Ray Wylie Hubbard (July 17), Hayes Carll (July 18), Bleu Edmondson (July 24), Mark Chesnutt (July 25), Brandon Rhyder (July 31), Rick Springfield (Aug. 1), Asleep At The Wheel (Aug. 7), Ronnie Milsap (Aug. 8), Stephen Pointer Band (Aug. 14), Sammy Kershaw (Aug. 15), The Bellamy Brothers (Aug. 21), Sara Evans (Aug. 22), Cory Morrow (Aug. 28), and Chris Cagle (Aug. 29). For more information, visit www.billybobstexas.com. Dining in the Stockyards is everything you’d expect it to be: steaks, barbecue and more steaks. Right next to the White Elephant, in the part of the club formerly known as the White Elephant Beer Garden, is The Love Shack, home of the hamburger topped with a quail egg. The Shack’s owner also owns another place, the Lonesome Dove, on Main Street, for more haute cuisine. The Every other food option is Grade-A: H3, Riscky’s BBQ, Cattleman’s and more. Our vegetarian friends can always order two sides of baked potatoes or extra veggies. See ya in the Stockyards. Yee. Haw.
h
Two Distinctive Properties One Prestigious Address Introducing Colonial Park and Gallery 1701
Quality - Comfort - Convenience
downtown fort worth
j u ly 2 0 0 9
Fort Worth’s Perfect Urban Lifestyle
6
Visit our leasing office and move in today! 1800 Rogers Road • Fort Worth - 76107 • 817-698-0422 www.colonialparkapts.com • www.gallery1701.com
BANK RESPONSIBLY WITH WORTHINGTON BANK
Swing into the Zoo on the Safari Shuttle
W
hen the recession first hit last year - and so many banks and financial institutions went to Washington with their hands out for a bailout - local community banks s. saw that some of the public thought they were part of the problem. But local community banks were not part of the subprime mortgage mess and other risky lending practices. Fort Worth-based Worthington National Bank has received national media attention for an ad campaign this year that seeks to separate this strong community bank from the bailout banks. Print ads and billboards from Worthington convey that message: “Don’t feed the animals. Big banks” and “Just say no to Bailout Banks. Bank Responsibly” and “Did your banks take a bailout? We didn’t.” “We just were getting tired of being associated with these [Troubles Assets Relief Program] banks,” said Greg Morse, CEO of Worthington National Bank. “We have always seen our role as being a part of the community, an asset that people and businesses can rely upon, and an institution that adds to the community, and doesn’t take away from it.” Morse has said in past interviews “big banks got greedy, and got into some serious troubles that were probably driven by greed.” He also told the Fort Worth Business Press that “Those big banks acted like a bunch of kids, and if they were my kids, I’d have them Places in time out.”
Takes You Places
The-T.com • 817-215-8600
501 Carroll, Suite 634
(Behind Montgomery Plaza)
Fort Worth, TX 76102 (817) 878-4200 frankiescleaners.com
Serving Downtown & The Seventh Street Cooridor
High quality cleaning Free Pick up and Delivery at condo, apartment or office. We are a “Green Cleaner”. 20% Off
with this Ad
j u ly 2 0 0 9
Worthington National Bank started in 2002, and has seen a steady growth rate due to what Morse refers to “as being committed to the needs of our customers, and not just a quick profit. The bank now has $180 million in total assets, and $21 million in equity capital. But Worthington is very active in the community in more ways than just taking in deposits and making loans. The bank restored the ground floor of its downtown Fort Worth location in the Burk Burnett Building (500 Main St.), one of Fort Worth’s original skyscrapers, built in 1914. The bank has also restored its Arlington location as well. Fine Texas art is displayed at each location. “Our whole philosophy is that we want to invest in our community,” Morse said. “This includes our business, but also restoring buildings, backing the art community, and being very involved with local charities. We take being a leader in our community very seriously.” Morse has 25 years of experience in the banking business, and served on the board of directors of many area charities, including: Tarrant County Blue (an organization dedicated to helping the families of fallen police officers), Wish for Wings, Fort Worth Police Foundation, the Arlington Library Foundation, and the Arlington Police Foundation. On the bank’s website, the slogan that Worthington tries to live by is “We do more than just close deals, we open relationships.” That includes, Morse said, being a modern bank but having an old-fashioned way of doing business. “Call us, and you’ll reach real people,” he said. “Come to our branches, and you’ll meet friendly and knowledgeable bankers.” So if you want a relationship with a bank that doesn’t need bailout money that comes out of your taxes, maybe Worthington National Bank can fit your financial needs. For more information, call 817.303.1200 or visit the website, www.worthingtonbank.com.
From now to October 31st, ride the Safari Shuttle from the Intermodal Transportation Center at 1001 Jones St. to the Fort Worth Zoo! It sure beats swinging from the trees at just $3 to ride there and back or free with a TRE Day Pass. A shuttle runs every half hour from 10am to 7pm on Saturdays. Parking is available at street meters on Jones St.
Frank Matthews, Owner
downtown fort worth
s
“Our whole philosophy is that we want to invest in our community we take being a leader in our community very seriously”
7
DOWNTOWN PARKING GUIDE www.fortworthparking.com
CULTURAL DISTRICT
g
p
28th
To Downtown
To I-35W
dam s
ry
Camp Bowie
Mo ntg om e
NATIONAL HISTORICAL STOCKYARDS DISTRICT g
Arc
oge rs
hA
B
Stocky ards Bl vd.
Ge
nd y
Wil lR
26th
a
B
nel
r
ger
s
25th
To D
W. Exch an
B
ow nto
B
ge Ave.
wn
d
c
l
Stock yards B
Wil
l Ro
b
Dar
ste
Plaza
nca
E. Exch
Rodeo
W. La
To I-30
lvd.
ange Av e.
B
Tan d
24th
e
y
B
j
Rip
Har
Ellis 23rd
g
Main
ersit Univ
North
21st
Cre
Harley
stli
y Nile C it
23rd 22nd
y
i
Packe rs
W.R .
Wa tt
ley
merce
Ge
f
Joh
nd
y
nso
n
Tow
t/
N. Com
net
er
Bur
ne
SUNDANCE SQUARE HISTORIC STOCKYARDS CULTURAL DISTRICT
To F
ort
Wo rt
hZ
oo
20th
cG
n Tri
ani
★
Bot
ity
ard
s
il Tra
en
To D
B
n
tow
1
Amon Carter Museum 3501 C B i Bl d 817 738 1933
7
Kimbell Art Museum 3333 C B i Bl d 817 332 8451
12 Will Rogers Memorial Center
3401 W L
A
817 871 8150
Y
Outdoor OUR Sculptures:
Billy Bob’s C Texas P ASSPORT T O C ENTER ITY L IFE 1
ON THE MOVE WITH THE T
j u ly, 2 0 0 9
Join the thousands of North Texas residents who enjoy public transportation in Fort Worth. Whether your destination is home, work or play, one of the T's services is just right for you!
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
Enjoy The T Downtown Free Zone! Ride anywhere in downtown for free! The free zone extends east to Jones Street, north to Belknap, south to Lancaster and west to Henderson Street.
8 8
DOWNTOWN FORT WORT
JUNE 2008
To I-35W
own
al
Centr
To I-30
8
Miss Molly’s Hotel Bed & Breakfast
ide rth S
No
15
Stockyards Station
FREE PARKING DOWNTOWN Downtown’s vibrant nightlife, entertainment, retail and restaurant scene would be almost impossible without abundant, convenient parking. Established in 1995, the downtown TIF provides 2,830 free evening and weekend public parking spaces for downtown visitors. In addition, Sundance Square retailers provide validation at the Sundance Square Gateway and Chisholm Trail Lots listed to the right. Daytime patrons of Sundance restaurants and retailers receive 2.5 hours of free parking and AMC theatre patrons receive up to 4 hours validation in these two lots. Both the TIF sponsored and Sundance Square parking lots listed are free in the evenings after 5:00 p.m. and on weekends.
Calhoun between Weatherford & 1st Streets Evenings after 5pm & Weekends
B
SUNDANCE GARAGE I
C
SUNDANCE GARAGE II
Commerce between 1st & 2nd Streets
Calhoun between 3rd & 4th Streets
D
CHISHOLM TRAIL LOT 3rd Street - Evenings after 5pm & weekends Merchant & AMC Theater Validations
E
SUNDANCE GARAGE III
F
SUNDANCE SQUARE GATEWAY LOT
3rd Street between Taylor & Throckmorton
G
CRESCENT
H
CITY PLACE GARAGE
Calhoun between 5th & 6th Streets Bass Performance Hall Patrons Only
Belknap Street between Throckmorton and Taylor
Base Maps Courtesy of
No Longer Available to the Public
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
A
TARRANT COUNTY FAMILY LAW GARAGE
j u ly, 2 0 0 9
H
9 JUNE 2008
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
9
Piola Italian Restaurant and Garden
3700 Mattison Ave., 817-989-0007 Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm; dinner Mon-Sat 5pm-10pm Lunch sandwiches & pizza, about $7; dinner entrees $12-$22 (chef specials generally $25-$32) Is dining al fresco impossible during a Texas July? Not at Piola, where modern Italian cuisine and a lovely shaded patio combine to beat the summer heat. Just remember your sunscreen and a few simple guidelines. Dusk is the perfect time for Piola’s garden patio. Planned little more than a year ago, this Italian-villa-style patio is now in full, lush bloom, with Boston ivy climbing the cedar and wrought-iron fencing and herbs flourishing in scattered Romanesque pots. A vine-covered, L-shaped pergola provides support for several ceiling fans, but after the sun sets the best breezecatching spots are in the open, near the rock waterfall that doubles as a birdbath. And since most people won’t think to brave the outdoors, you might have this lovely space (and your “Roman Emperor unwinding after a tough day battling the Gauls” fantasies) all to yourself.
polished wood floors make Piola feel like a cozy family home, all the more so when charming owners Bobby and Donna Albanese greet you at the door and make you welcome. Here’s the place to enjoy Albanese-family recipes of hearty comfort food, like “Grandma’s lasagna,” eggplant parmigiano, and baked ziti, as well as newgeneration creations like the cappuccinocrusted pork tenderloin with blackberry demi-glace. The kitchen staff is highly talented but not show-offy: Old-school or modern, each seemingly simple dish is made exceptional with small culinary touches, like the shaving of black truffle that brings out the smokiness of chicken fettuccine. High noon ... outdoors? Sure - but this time you’ll probably want to sit in the shade, right beneath a ceiling fan. Appetizermatching from the dinner menu makes for a great lunch - try pairing a Mediterranean
salad with grilled bruschetta, or eggplant rollatine with insalata misto (mixed greens). Lunch-only offerings include a “pizza trio” - a personal-size pizza that’s one third margarita, one third green olives and capicola, and one third spinachartichoke Alfredo. Inside or out, lunch or dinner, you’ll receive not only wonderful food but fabulous service. Even though the patio feels far from the madding crowd, course timing is perfect, thanks in part to a back building that houses a small bar and prep area. Enjoy the sun, the breeze, the food, the service - the contentment that comes with every meal at Piola.
YOU GOTTA TRY THIS
j u ly 2 0 0 9 downtown fort worth 10
Cool your palate with light, fresh Italian dishes. Start with a chilled salad like the timeless insalata caprese, milky mozzarella and sliced Roma tomatoes dressed with pesto and a slick of topshelf balsamic vinegar, or the chunky lobster-avocado salad with housemade tarragon dressing. For a main course, the go-to summer-friendly choice is the grilled salmon - but if the Chilean sea bass is offered as a chef’s special (it often is), hook it; on a recent visit, the fish’s buttery, sweet flavor was well-matched with a spicy arrabiata sauce. Lemony chicken picatta, grilled just-off-the-boat shrimp, and penne caprese with fresh tomato sauce are other great summer-heat choices. The finishing touch: a scoop of pomegranate sherbet. But, but, it’s over 100 degrees out here! Heat-wimps are more than welcome in the lovely dining area of this renovated 1940s bungalow. The stucco walls and
Gloria’s Grand Meltdown
Gloria’s boasts the Grand Meltdown as their “signature margarita”. This frozen drink is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day, but be warned: this margarita packs a serious punch! If the $9 price tag seems a big steep, rest assured that the friendly bartenders at Gloria’s will give you your money’s worth. The 16 oz swirl is a perfect blend of sweet sangria, tart margarita and is topped off with a generous shot of Grand Marnier. Add a little squeeze of fresh lime juice and this refreshing flavor combo is literally a fiesta for your tastebuds... and can really help to adjust your attitude about the heat. The Grand Meldown $9.00 at Gloria’s • 2600 W 7th Street #175 • 817-332-8800 •gloriasrestaurants.com
Beat Clock the
Short lunch break? Grab a quick and tasty meal in under an hour!
T&P Tavern, 221 W. Lancaster Ave., 817-885-8878 punch of curry. Hot sandwiches, like the classic Reuben on rye ($7.99), are pressed for extra texture-crunch. All sandwiches come with tortilla chips and a lovely smoky salsa. The service: Officially, it’s DIY: order at the kiosk and give your name, and you’ll be summoned when your food is ready for pick-up. In practice, the counterworkers are extraordinarily friendly and helpful, happy to discuss the merits of each sandwich and help with decision-making if needed. The verdict: The kiosk and seating area take up only a tiny part of this soaring space, so during non-rush hours a lone diner might feel very small. Bring your friends along, or stop by on a Saturday night when live music is featured, or join the after-work crowds from the neighboring Texas & Pacific Lofts - when it’s filled with fun and laughter, T&P Tavern is the downtown place to be.
Time out: 1:00 pm
j u ly 2 0 0 9
Time in: 12:40 Pm
downtown fort worth
The setting: Remember that “T&P” stands for Texas and Pacific - it’ll help you find this worth-seeking-out bar and grill. It operates out of a kiosk in the historic T&P train station at the south end of downtown, tucked in the 5,000-square-feet, 40-feet-high, deco-gorgeous hall between the front lobby and the Trinity Railway Express train tracks. Once you find the place, you won’t want to leave - thanks in part to the full bar, which includes a large selection of Texas beers. The menu: Devised by chef-about-town Johndavid Bartlett, T&P’s menu is simple -a dozen sandwiches, a few quesadillas, a daily soup - but delightful. Longsimmered beef, smoky Gouda, and caramelized onions are piled high on a French roll in the not-too-spicy Cajun pot roast po-boy ($7.49). A chicken-salad sandwich ($6.49) melds a Waldorf salad - apples, walnuts - with grilled chicken-breast chunks, chow-chow, and a flavor-
11
SALES & SERVICE Financing Available Repairs on All Brands
PARTS APPAREL ROAD MOUNTAIN FITNESS BMX CRUISERS ADULT THREE WHEELERS LOWRIDERS AND MORE BUY AND SELL USED BIKES & SKATEBOARDS
downtown fort worth
j u ly 2 0 0 9
bicyclecenteroffortworth.com
12
183
e.
White Settlement Rd.
Hw
ity
ro
y.
ers
bo
niv
ks
Dr.
Av
Jac
N. U
w
. lvd
am
rih
h Ep
sB
ak
rO
ve
Ri
ve.
gA
Lon
University Dr.
(6 miles from downtown)
W
Roberts Cut Off Rd.
5434 River Oaks Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76114 817-377-1925
I-30
N. H
Downtown
en
de rs
on
F lutter, Swim, or Catch Bugs all summer long.
STOMP
Your Way to the Omni for Great IMAX fims this Summer
A
midst the dust from the construction and the smell of fresh paint wafting through the air, a Fort Worth institution has reopened its doors. Since 1983, more than 10 million movie-goers have sat in awe in the hallowed seats of the Omni Theater, one of the most popular attractions of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. While the finishing touches are still being put on the rest of the museum, the nation’s largest IMAX theater this side of the Mississippi River is already showing multiple films every day. And thanks to some recent upgrades, the Omni experience is better than ever. Even though the Omni Theater has been enhanced, the experience is still rich with all of the charming things that made it great to begin with. For many natives of the Fort, the familiar walk through the dimly lit hallway, in the shadows of the mechanical guts of the massive projector wheel and impressive speaker system is woven into their DNA - an experience on par with their first baseball game or a favorite summer camp. The virtual helicopter ride on the panoramic theater’s 120-foot-wide screen still provokes oohs and ahhs from the audience. The difference is now the theater experience has been enriched even more. Until a few years ago, the theater could only show films up to one hour in length. Thanks to new technology, the theater can show films up to two and a half hours long. Technology has also helped the film quality. The picture is brighter, clearer, and better defined. The Omni now features new guests facilities, a concession stand, LED lighting, and an even better sound system - four times better than the previous system. All the changes have allowed the Omni to enhance the learning experience and entertainment value of their world-class features. It also enables the theater to show mainstream movies in a stunning new light. Currently, the theater is showing A Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian until July 12. Dinosaurs Alive will run until Aug. 8, Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk, narrated by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., throughout the summer. For a closer look at creepy, crawlies, Bugs will be showing all dinosaurs Alive summer long; Dolphins, a look at the deep sea’s bottle-nosed showing until Aug. 8. intellectuals will be running through July; and Ride Around the World, a journey through horse-riding culture that examines the lives and history of cowboys, gauchos, baqueanos, and the like, opens July 13 and runs through Aug. 2. dolphins showing through July.
Admission to the theater is $7 for adults and $6 for kids and seniors for the educational features, and $12 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors for the long features.. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History Plus members get free admission, and Discovery members get $2 off. The museum also offers an Omni/ Cowgirl Museum combo price for $12 for adults and $10 for kids and seniors.
Funds continue to be accepted, and donations should be sent to: PO Box 101537, Fort Worth, TX 76185-1537 Checks should be made payable to Fort Worth Police & Firefighters Memorial.
j u ly 2 0 0 9
For more information visit www.cfwfallenheroes.org
downtown fort worth
two high walls of names that list randomly the fallen police officers, firefighters and marshals. The oldest record of death is that of Columbus Fitzgerald, killed in 1877 when he was shot while trying to stop a brawl near Cold Springs Race Track on the Northside. The most recent is Dwayne Freeto, killed in 2006 while assisting a motorist on I-35, when a car struck his patrol vehicle. Designed by Fort Worth architects Gideon Toal, the Memorial also features black granite kiosks that take visitors through several eras of Fort Worth history and tell the stories of some of our fallen heroes. A decomposed granite path winding through the trees guides visitors to the sculptures and walls of names. The City of Fort Worth donated five acres on the north end of Trinity Park for the project, and more than 800 individuals and companies gave a total of $1.2 million to fund the project. Balfour Beatty Construction oversaw the memorial’s construction. The memorial project is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit overseen by a board of directors, whose membership includes Fort Worth police officers, firefighters, senior city officials, and corporate leaders. The board co-chairs are Bob Kolba and John Stevenson. The project coordinator is Linda Fulmer.
photo by Amy Royer
citywide Dedication ceremony for the Fort Worth Police & Firefighters Memorial, located in Trinity Park off West 7th Street, was held Friday, June 5 at 9:30 a.m. The dedication marked an important milestone for Fort Worth, the only U.S. city of its size without a memorial to honor its fallen officers until now. The Fort Worth Police and Firefighters Memorial honored three deputy marshals, 55 police officers and 37 firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty since the city’s earliest days. It is designed with the flexibility to continue honoring individuals killed in the line of duty in the future. At the dedication, 95 fallen heroes were remembered through the reading of their names and the dates of their decease by law enforcement leaders. Reverent choral music by Schola Cantorum of Texas, bagpipes, and the posting of colors played for the event, which was heavily attended by city leaders, peace officers, firefighters and the general public. Mayor Moncrief rang the same Masonic bell used to announce the deaths and funerals of the city’s earliest peace officers and firefighters. The 227-year-old bell came to Fort Worth in 1855 and is still owned by Fort Worth Masonic Lodge #148. Massive bronze sculptures of a firefighter, police officer and riderless horse, sculpted by Jack Wilson, form the heart of the memorial. Adjacent to the sculptures are
photos by Glen Ellman
A
Recognition. Reflection. Remembrance.
13
ENTERTAINMENT
downtown fort worth
j u ly 2 0 0 9
J
14
uly is time to reflect on just how awesome our country is. Look at all the month has rural Wisconsin. Described by the New York to offer: the Fourth of July and all of the myriad celebrations thereof; America’s pasTimes as “soul-satisfying,” Spitfire -- one of time, baseball, is in full, um, swing; outdoor concerts and festivals; and, thankfully for the most produced plays in the country -Texans, there’s lots of stuff to do indoors, including live theater and music. Like most features a “rural, indigenous folk sound” proud, upstanding, patriotic cities, the Fort has all of the, uh, bases covered ... based on the Scandinavian and Celtic Starting with the Cats, North Texas’ cultures prevalent in the Cheese State. Stage winningest minor league baseball team. Put West’s Jerry Russell is the director. For the Cats and fireworks together, and you’ve got more information, visit www.stagewest.org one heckuva party. On Sat., July 4, before the or call 817-784-9378. hometown boys take on the Pensacola Pelicans July also is when the Fort Worth Weekly at 7:05 p.m., the area outside LaGrave Field announces the winners of its annual Music will be packed with live music, water shows, Awards contest. After the Grammysand games and activities (including pony style ceremony, on Sun., July 12, native rides, bounce houses, a longhorn cattle herd, Fort Worthian and new inductee to the and tours of the nearby Trinity Trails). The Fort Worth Music Hall of Fame James air above the ballpark on the near North Side, Alt-country singer-songwriter James McMurtry will perform at the Longhorn of course, will be full of explosions. The Cats’ McMurtry performs at Longhorn Saloon in Saloon in the Stockyards (121 W Exchange fireworks show, according to the organization, the Stockyards on Sun., July 12. Av, 817-386-5962). McMurtry, the son of is one of the biggest of its kind in North Texas. legendary author Larry McMurtry, purveys a For tickets and more information, visit www. brand of alt-country-influenced rock that’s as biting musically as it often is lyrically. The fwcats.com or call 817-226-CATS (2287). singer-songwriter and marvelous guitarist is rather outspoken. For more information, visit The weekend of the Fourth will be www.fwweekly.com. full of non-deadly explosions in Music from the Weekly won’t stop there. From April ‘til October every the sky, naturally. At the Fort year, North Texas’ only independent newspaper presents Thursday Night Worth Botanic Garden (3220 Live, a series of concerts on the patio at Central Market (4651 W Fwy, Catch music and fireworks at the Botanic Garden Blvd) from 817-989-4700). Bands slated to play this July include Rattletree Botanic Garden this month. Thur., July 2, through Marimba (July 2), Chatterton (the 9th), Stephen Pointer with JZ Sat., July 4, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra presents an Old& Dirty Pool (the 23rd), and The Killdares (the 30th). Check out Fashioned Family Fireworks Picnic, featuring patriotic songs (a the Weekly’s web site or www.centralmarket.com for more info. lot of marches) and fireworks. Interested folks are encouraged to And the music in general won’t stop there. Bass Hall will be reserve a table or get their general-admission lawn tickets as soon as packed with sounds. From July 7 through July 12, Casa Manana’s possible. The concert is one of the most popular in town, according Summer Broadway at the Bass Video Games Live at to the Garden. Andres Franco conducts. will present the classic Bass hall will blow And on Sun., July 5, at the Botanic Garden, fireworks Little Shop of Horrors. On you away. choreographed to a performance of Tchaikovsky’s powerful 1812 Tue., July 14, Performing Overture by the FWSO will close the evening. A medallist of the Arts Fort Worth brings 2009 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition will sit in during you Video Games Live, the evening. For more information on 1812 or the Picnic, visit www. a multi-media experience. fwbg.org or call 817-871-7686. As the symphony plays As awesome as our country is, it’s not perfect and has never Blues in the Night at Jubilee theatre will music from Final Fantasy, been, as Blues in the Night will remind you. Songs by Bessie Smith, run until August 15. Halo, Metal Gear Solid, Duke Ellington, Johnny Mercer, and Harold Arlen, among many Warcraft, and more, stunning others, will fill Jubilee Theatre (506 Main St) Thursdays through Sundays from July 23 visuals will be projected on a big screen. For gamers through August 15. Directed by Jubilee’s and non-gamers alike. And on Wed., July 14, Ed Smith, Blues in the Night comprises 26 Performing Arts Fort Worth presents Yes with songs in all that “tell of the sweet, sexy, special guest Asia. For more info, check out and sorrowful experiences three women www.fortworth.com. have with the lying, cheating snake of a man who does them wrong,” according to the company. For more information, visit www.jubileetheatre.org or call the box office at 817-338-4411.
don’t miss the Killdares at Central Market thur., July 30.
Over at the Old Vic (821 W Vickery Blvd), Stage West will present a different though no less poignant look at out country ‘tis of thee. From Thur., July 9, through August 9, the company will put on The Spitfire Grill, a musical about a young woman just released from prison who decides to start over in
the Stephen Pointer Band plays Central Market thur., July 23.
Open for Lunch
MON-FRI 11am-2pm WED-SAT 5pm-2am
$2 wells all the time
TAPAS CANTINA
Happy Hour 5-8pm
1010 Houston St. • Downtown Across From Convention Center Restaurant 817.336.3124 • www.parkcentralhotel.com
OPEN BLUES JAM THURSDAY LIVE MUSIC-FREE WiFi
s
s
s
F Presents f
TNL
s
Free Concerts
09
Every Thursday on the Patio at
Shows Begin @ 6:00pm Get There Early!
4651 West Freeway
s
Fort Worth, TX
s
817.989.4700
go to f for band schedules
LIVE MUSIC jULy Wed, July 1
Wed, July 15
Pete Gallio
Pete Gallio Trio
Fri, July 3
Fri, July 17
The Texas Gypsies
Shelley Carrol
Sat, July 4 & Sun, July 5
Sat, July 18
Closed
Tatiana Mayfield Quintet
Wed, July 8
Kat Edmonson Fri, July 10
Ricki Derek & the Vegas Six Sat, July 11
Paul Unger Quartet featuring Nina Katrina
Sun, July 19
Mi Son Sat, July 25
Sandra Kaye & a Few Good Men Every Thursday
johnny Reno
Sun, July 12
Mi Son Tue, July 14
Ricki Derek & his Big Band
F f
"Top 100 Jazz Clubs" -DoWnBeaT MaGazine '09
Great Happy Hour Specials all month Long. Tuesday – Friday • 5pm – 7pm
Visit our website for details www.scatjazzlounge.com Hours: Tues-Fri 5pm-2am • Sat 6pm-2am • Sunday 7pm-1am • Closed Mondays
111 W. 4th, Suite 11 • 817-870-9100 • Downstairs - Sundance Square
j u ly, 2 0 0 9
Pete Gallio
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
Tue, July 7
15
DOWNTOWN FORT WORTH
j u ly, 2 0 0 9
WALK to terrific live theatres.
16
“ Hi,
it’s The Walking Guy. If you’re into live theatre like me, there’s a whole lot to applaud in Sundance Square®. You can see all kinds of great shows…from drama to comedy to musicals…at Circle Theatre and Jubilee Theatre. Plus, there’s hilarious improv from Four Day Weekend. So step up and grab some tickets soon. Until then, keep on walking.”
Downtown Fort worth’s orth’s EntErtainmEnt Ent rtainmEnt & shopping District EntErtainm
www.sundancesquare.com