After two decades, Reata closes its doors in Sundance Square, but will soon re-open at a new spot

After more than two decades in Sundance Square, Fort Worth’s beloved Reata restaurant bid farewell to its longtime location on Sunday night, marking the end of an era while looking forward to new beginnings on Throckmorton Street.

“It’s a little bittersweet. We’re excited about the future and moving to the tower,” said Mike Micallef, president of Reata Restaurant.

Following the non-renewal of their lease in Sundance Square, the restaurant embarked on a search for a new home, bringing them back to their original Fort Worth roots.

“We first came to Fort Worth in May of 1996, opening at the top of the Bank One Tower when it was still an office building. After the tornado in 2000, we moved to Sundance Square. Now, we’re returning to the tower, which has since been converted to condominiums with retail space,” explained Micallef.

For Micallef and his family, who launched the first Reata in Alpine, Texas, it’s a full circle moment.

“Moving from one space to another is like moving houses, but on a larger scale with 15,000 square feet indoors and 7,000 more on the outdoor patios. We have a great team, and I’m confident the transition will be smooth,” Micallef added.

Reflecting on the move, Micallef acknowledged the sentimental value of their Sundance Square location, where Reata has been a cherished venue for weddings, anniversaries, and other significant life events.

“It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s family, it’s Fort Worth, it’s Texas,” said Deborah Ferguson, a Fort Worth native and NBC 5 Today morning news anchor, who joined the final night’s festivities at Reata.

As patrons shared stories and memories, Micallef recounted amusing anecdotes, like customers joking about their multiple “first and last dates” at Reata.

“People have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and just life’s big moments here. It means a lot to so many,” said Micallef.

Amidst the nostalgia, customers packed the restaurant on its closing night, including Marc Rhoten, celebrating his 23rd wedding anniversary with his family, expressing mixed emotions about the move but looking forward to Reata’s return to its original location in the tower.

While acknowledging the loss of their iconic rooftop with its stunning views of Sundance Square, Micallef expressed confidence in carrying forward Reata’s essence to their new space.

“As we close our doors tonight, we’re filled with gratitude and anticipation for what lies ahead,” Micallef concluded during a heartfelt toast in the dining room on Sunday.