February 2022
news and updates

PLACES + SPACES
FIRE STATION PARK

Let’s Roll! Fire Station Park is fully funded and moving to construction! 

On a beautifully sunny January 12, the Near Southside community came together to sip hot chocolate and celebrate the fantastic news that the Fire Station Park dream will soon become reality. The Near Southside, Inc. team worked hard to raise the $600k needed to trigger an equal match by the City of Fort Worth, and the event celebrated a very generous donation of $300k from Dickies and The VF Foundation (philanthropic arm of Dickies parent company) that allowed us to reach that lofty goal. Their primary sponsorship grant was followed by generous gifts from the Scott Foundation, Ryan Foundation, Meta Alice Keith Bratten Foundation, and the Amon Carter Foundation – and that wasn’t the end of the story. Heartwarming contributions came through a grassroots fundraising effort, led by the local skate community and Magnolia Skate Shop, that brought our total to $680,000, far exceeding our initial goal. NSI will continue to work with the City of Fort Worth as they select a contractor and begin construction this spring. The goal is to have the skate park portion of the park completed by October 2022. Design team includes Pacheco Koch and New Line Skateparks.

More Fire Station Park information including updated design, renderings, and video: https://www.nearsouthsidefw.org/fsp
MAGNOLIA AVENUE TREES

Time to tidy up! This week the trees along Magnolia Ave will have the string lights removed to receive a trim for required clearance and visibility. Our friends at SPSD have worked with the Near Southside, Inc. team for the last several years to keep our trees happy and healthy, and they will once again help us with their professional expertise to keep Magnolia Ave looking great! Once the trees have been limbed up, we will work with a contractor to re-hang string lights, implementing an alternative lighting application that will deliver a similar aesthetic and be a healthier condition for the trees. For any questions or concerns please reach out to Allison Docker at [email protected]
SOUTH MAIN VILLAGE PARKLET

Notice anything different along South Main Street? A brand new public parklet has recently been installed just across the sidewalk from the plaza space adjacent to Hot Box Biscuit Club and Red Productions. As part of the City of Fort Worth’s pilot program, Near Southside, Inc. established the parklet to create an inviting platform of benches and planters that functions as a public space accessible to all pedestrians and visitors in South Main Village. Fabricated and installed by BrotherSister Design and 6572build, this park was initially envisioned by our architect friends at Studio 97w . Near Southside Inc. will maintain the parklet and plans to collaborate with a local artist to add a creative touch to the planters. Check out the parklet at 313 S. Main Street Fort Worth, TX 76104
THE SOUTH MAIN SQUEEZE

You know we love a good pilot project, and the next one we are working on will introduce a unique and unexpected social space to South Main Village called The South Main Squeeze. An existing public alley connecting South Main Street and Bryan Ave is too narrow for vehicular through traffic, but will be re-imagined as a lively public patio. Our NSI team, along with the adjacent business owners of Roots Coffee, Emporium Pies, Rancho Loma Vineyards, Winton and Waits, Apothenne, and The 4 Eleven, collaborated on an adaptable and flexible design concept, one that will still allow commercial deliveries when needed.

The re-imagined space will feature seating areas, moveable planters, overhead lighting, and artistic enhancements throughout the alley. We are working with the City of Fort Worth on agreements to allow the space’s activation very soon. As an additional bonus, the South Main Squeeze provides a direct pedestrian connection to The Skinny, the public park located on Crawford Street.
DIG INTO DEVELOPMENT
MAGNOLIA LOFTS

Providing housing options for all is a primary Near Southside goal, and we’re excited about the steady flow of projects delivering units affordable to those working in the district’s healthcare, service, and creative sectors. This month we highlight one of these projects directly aligned with one of our employment anchors. The Magnolia Lofts project (working name subject to change) is located on Magnolia Ave. one block east of S. Main Street, and is a partnership between The NRP Group and JPS Medical Center, delivering:

  • 67 total residential units
  • 60 units will be for those earning up to 60% of the area median income
  • 7 units will be market rate or without income restrictions

  • Community amenities including a children’s playscape, business center, fitness room, children’s activity room, and community lounge/kitchen

  • Units equipped with energy-star appliances, granite countertops, modern cabinetry and flooring, spacious balconies, and storage

  • Approximately 2,000 sf of commercial/retail space leased to JPS for internal or external use

Construction is expected to kick off 2nd half of 2022.
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN TO HISTORIC TEMPLE BETH EL

This next update is especially exciting to share, considering the historic property involved. Last August’s newsletter included news of the historic Temple Beth El’s listing for sale, which we admit triggered some anxiety, as the property was not locally designated as a protected landmark. That update emphasized how important the property’s preservation and sensitive restoration would be. Today, we couldn’t be more pleased to announce that the remarkable civic history of this treasured property will continue! We applaud and congratulate Trinity Presbyterian Church on their successful acquisition, just closed this month. And we wish them well on all steps involved in launching the next life for the 1920 landmark in South Main Village.

Special thanks to Pastor Brian Davis and church leaders Cameron Mitchell, Fred Cauble, Harold Hebert, and others for their collaboration with NSI in exploring all pre-development issues, including coordination of street and utility upgrades on Galveston and Peter Smith. Look for more details on renovation plans and schedule soon.
SKYVIEW AT CRAWFORD

The Skinny park on Crawford Street has quickly become a favorite spot for South Main Village residents, and we’ll soon see another project bringing more neighbors to The Skinny and surrounding businesses. Skyview at Crawford is the proposed residential project by Skyview Capital and KinoD, proposed for currently vacant lots immediately south of the park.

The project will deliver a 4-story, 47-unit boutique luxury apartment building located at 400 Crawford Street. Skyview at Crawford will offer a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom units with walk-out access to The Skinny, restaurants, and coffee shops. All bedrooms will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology like keyless entry, Bluetooth speakers, smart thermostat, stainless steel appliances, kitchen islands, quartz countertops, & walk in closets. The project will also feature covered parking and is slated for completion by spring of 2023.
MAGNOLIA HIGHLINE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Site activity has started on the long-awaited redevelopment of the Magnolia block between Adams and Washington Ave. Urban Genesis is the development team behind the Magnolia Highline project. The development of the former FWISD site, which has now been cleared for construction to begin, will incorporate a full block of ground floor storefronts along Magnolia — spaces ideally suited for the next generation of local businesses — and three floors of residential units above. Parking is located at ground level, tucked behind the retail spaces, under the upper floor units, and also shielded from view along Adams and Washington. NSI thanks FWISD for delivering decades of civic milestones on this block, including the recent launches of both the World Languages Institute and the Young Women’s Leadership Academy. We’re fortunate to see an exciting new future, shown in the rendering below, taking shape for this important Magnolia block. Leasing information for both retail and residential to be shared soon.
COMMUNITY REMEMBRANCES
DENNIS WEVERKA
Dennis Weverka was a dear friend to NSI and a major contributor and collaborator on community initiatives going back to the 1980s. We were saddened to lose Dennis last month and our thoughts are with his wife Kathy, son Mitch, and all of his family and friends. 

As a Ryan Place resident and Near Southside business owner, Dennis took an active interest in our organization in its earliest days, becoming a fixture on our Marketing Committee and a key partner on events including the first ArtsGoggle, where he and Kathy volunteered their business Design Resources Studio on Park Place as one of the original ArtsGoggle venues. From those first days all the way through his later role in recent years as an incredibly helpful health insurance broker for small businesses and organizations including ours, Dennis was always the friendliest guy in the room, and it was contagious. Thank you Dennis for making this journey more enjoyable for all of us. 
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
AIA CHAPTER PRESIDENT MATTHIJS MELCHIORS
Congrats to one of the Near Southside's very own for being selected for an important leadership role. It is an honor to have Evans and Rosedale Village's MEL/ARCH principal Matthijs Melchiors serve as the 2022 chapter president for the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Under his leadership a rewarding and exciting year is ahead as we finally get to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the chapter. “I look forward to working with and for you all”, says Matthijs Melchiors. Now that is the spirit of partnership! Matthijs, you're making your Near Southside community proud.
1201 Evans Ave Suite 300, Fort Worth, TX 76104
DO GOOD IN THE HOOD
IT TAKES A VILLAGE!

As December 2021 approached, Near Southside, Inc. launched an end of year giving campaign. We reached out to the community to ask for your financial support to finish the year with a balanced budget and start 2022 strong. Seemingly overnight, our financial goals were met as dozens of you stepped forward with donations of all sizes. The Near Southside's generosity delivered yet again. Our sincere thanks to all who made a gift to the organization, and special thanks to these top donors who pushed us across the goal line:
GRIEF SUPPORT CENTER
FOR CHILDREN

Since 1989, The WARM Place has been a close companion over 40,000 children and their families along their grief journey. This mission has adapted and continued to provide support for local families through the landscape of COVID-19. Their program, led by trained volunteers, provides a safe environment for children to express feelings and emotions as well as the opportunity to meet with children and families who are experiencing situations similar to their own. Recently KERA sat down with the clients and counselors of The WARM Place to talk about how the pandemic has impacted the organization. Learn more about how this important Near Southside non-profit is continuing to meet the needs of the community. 809 Lipscomb St, Fort Worth, TX 76104
NEAR SOUTHSIDE ARTS
ARTSGOGGLE REGISTRATION DEADLINE APPROACHING
ArtsGoggle presented by Trinity Metro is Fort Worth's premier festival of local arts. This free-to-the-public, family-friendly event annually hosts more than 1,000 visual artists, 50 musical performances, artistic displays of every kind, food, drink, and fun for everyone. Unlike any event in Fort Worth, the festival exclusively focuses on highlighting the work of local artists, musicians, and performers of all media and experience levels. ArtsGoggle attracts a crowd of 60,000+ patrons that are as diverse as the event's Near Southside neighborhood. Visitors are invited to park their cars and rediscover this revitalized urban district by Trinity Metro transit, by foot, or by bicycle, including Fort Worth Bike Sharing bikes. Save the date for the return of ArtsGoggle on Saturday, April 23 from Noon-10pm.

Deadline: TODAY, February 15, 2022 Apply now!
EMERGING ARTIST RESIDENCY DEADLINE APPROACHING
This program is part of Arts Fort Worth’s ongoing commitment to support the creation of arts for all. With an emphasis on emerging practices, this program provides one artist with a non-residential studio space at Arts Fort Worth, 1300 Gendy Street in the Cultural District of Fort Worth. This program aims to help practicing artists offset the cost of living by providing free studio space for a period of twelve months; $6,000 stipend for materials (paid in $500 monthly installments); and studio visits with established regional artists. The residency will culminate in a solo exhibition in our galleries. This opportunity would serve as a unique cultural integration project between artists, community, schools, and established museums/cultural centers in the area. Arts Fort Worth - Emerging Artist Residency is made possible through with the generous support of the Donny Wiley Memorial Fund at North Texas Community Foundation.
Deadline: TODAY, February 15, 2022 Apply now.
LIVE FROM THE SOUTHSIDE
TWO SHOWS TAKE AIM AT STAGE WEST

ON THE EXHALE
When a senseless act of violence changes her life forever, a college professor finds herself inexplicably drawn to the very weapon used to perpetrate the crime - and to the irresistible feeling of power that comes from holding life and death in her hands. Peering down the barrel of a uniquely American crisis, this perspective-bending, one-woman tour de force intimately examines our collective grief over a national epidemic that we all want to end.

Performance Schedule: 2/10/22 - 2/27/22
ADDED PERFORMANCES: Sat, Feb 26 at 2:30 and 7:30 and Sun, Feb 27 at 2:30
Thursdays 7:00
Fridays & Saturdays 7:30
Sundays 2:30 (all Sundays require proof of vaccination)
Thursday, Feb 17 ASL Interpretation Post Show Conversation with Director Harry Parker
CHURCH AND STATE
You want to talk about the separation of what now?

Three days before his bid for re-election - in the wake of another school shooting - a U.S. Senator has a life-altering crisis of faith, triggering an off-the-cuff comment which sends the entire campaign into a tailspin. His wife and campaign manager try to contain the damage, but in a country where religion influences politics and politics have become a religion, how do you reach the people and stay true to yourself? A timely and fast-paced story that is simultaneously funny, heartbreaking, and uplifting.

Performance Schedule: 1/27/22 - 2/20/22
Thursdays 7:30
Fridays & Saturdays 8:00
Sundays 3:00
ASL Interpretation Thursday, Feb 10 
Patrons needing to see the interpreters should purchase seats numbered 1-4 in the Right section.
Post Show Conversations:
Feb 5, featuring PR specialist Mindia Whittier
Feb 19, featuring Director Jenna Burnett

Read about the shows here. Buy tickets here.

821 W. Vickery Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76104
THE PLEASURE TRIALS AT 'PHIB

Amphibian Stage celebrates the launch of their 2022 mainstage production season with tickets to the world premiere performances of The Pleasure Trials (February 11 - 27) by playwright Sarah Saltwick on sale now. The Pleasure Trials is an important premiere for the company as it marks a full circle partnership between Saltwick and Amphibian from early creative support in 2016 during the developmental reading of the play where the playwright workshopped the piece with actors and a live audience to the first professional staging of the work next month. This hilarious and deeply human play follows two women conducting clinical trials on a new female libido enhancement drug. When Rachel and Callie launch the trial, willing participants come out of the woodwork looking for an internal revolution. Quickly after the first dose, the effectiveness of the medicine is undeniable, but the overwhelming pressure for its success may corrupt the experiment and everyone involved. The Pleasure Trials is an insightful and entertaining examination of women, sexual desire, and the burden of meeting expectations. 

Thursday; 8 pm curtain: $25 per ticket
Fridays and Saturdays; 8 pm curtain: $40 per ticket
Sunday; 2 pm curtain: $40 per ticket

Velvet Box’s Sex Educator & Therapist Dr. Celeste Holbrook will host unique “Desire Discussions” after each Sunday performance.
Feb 20: The Keys of Desire - Learning to unlock desire and arousal.
Feb 27: How Much Sex Should We Be Having? - What really matters when it comes to sex frequency.

Read about the show here. Buy tickets here.

120 S Main Street. Fort Worth, TX 76104

BIG NEWS! Shasta and the friendly folks at Art Tooth have gotten super savvy about asking for your support to keep their great arts-centered programming front and center here in the Near Southside. They've started a Patreon!

Your donation via Patreon allows Art Tooth to continue offering regular art installations in the #artsouth gallery at the South Main Micro Park. Donating just $5 a month makes you an official Art Tooth patron that receives exclusive content and event news. Now, they just need some patrons. Please sign up and spread the word!

Art Tooth at the South Main MicroPark 125 S. Main St, Fort Worth, TX 76104
THIRD THURSDAY ART WALK
THIS WEEK

Third Thursday Art Walk is back! This Thursday the Near Southside will be hosting IM Terrell students in the Visual and Performing Arts program. Come take a tour through the neighborhood from 6-9pm on Thursday, February 17 and support these talented artists. Check out this incredible list of venues hosting the students.

SiNaCa Studios is looking to expand their staff beyond the glass studio. The Front of House position is a customer service and data entry position. Attention detail and ability to complete repetitive tasks is a must. This staff member is frequently the first and last point of contact for patrons, students, and artists. SiNaCa is looking for multiple candidates that can remain task-oriented through inevitable daily distractions. Email your resume to [email protected] to learn more.
1013 W. Magnolia Ave Fort Worth, TX 76104
CUFFLINK ART - SOLO EXHIBITON
Adam Fung's possible magic is opening at Cufflink Art on
March 26, 2022.

Adam Fung's possible magic examines how we navigate trajectory within the Anthropocene’s precarious states. Primarily using painting as means to survey the condition of the planet, Adam Fung considers a range of research interests that touch upon issues such as eco-anxiety, climate change, the history of landscape imagery, and interconnected systems also known as hyperobjects. Intentionally working with oil paint, these slow moving, layered surfaces are a resistance to the slickness, speed, and expectations of the digital world or media we encounter daily. Each work employs a dynamic color palette that speaks to the dichotomy of beauty and destruction in contemporary landscapes. With each encounter we must ask ourselves: what lies over the seen and unseen horizon?

Visit the website or email for more information. 120 S. Main Street, Ste. 149 Fort Worth, TX 76104
iter8 health innovation update
NANOSCOPE THERAPUTICS MAKES THE NEWS

Bedford-based Nanoscope Therapeutics Inc., a member of TechFW, is a clinical-stage, biotechnology company, has received clearance from the Food and Drug Administration to begin a Phase 2 human trial of its Multi-Characteristic Opsin (MCO-010) gene therapy in Stargardt patients. MCO-010 is designed to restore vision in Stargardt patients, a rare genetic eye disease that results when fatty material builds up on the macula — the small part of the retina needed for sharp, central vision.

“This is another important milestone for Nanoscope, giving us the opportunity of conducting a second clinical trial in the U.S. of our proprietary MCO gene therapy platform, designed to restore vision for patients suffering from retinal degenerative diseases,” says Sulagna Battacharya, CEO of Nanoscope, in a statement. “Currently, there are no approved treatments for these conditions.”

Nanoscope Therapeutics is a TechFW member, a 501(c)3 nonprofit startup accelerator and business incubator since 1998.

MEET TIMELY MD

This beautiful office that blends in seamlessly on Adams St. at the northern edge of the Fairmount Historic District is home to one of the most remarkable success stories of the Near Southside’s health innovation community. Congratulations to Luke Hejl and his teammates at TimelyMD on the remarkable expansion of their tele-health network, serving college and university students across the country. TimelyMD recently secured $60 million from investors, and their rapidly growing roster of partnering universities now totals over 150, including top tier universities such as Duke, Johns Hopkins, Notre Dame, and many more. Hear all about Luke’s story on Cameron Cushman’s Innovate Fort Worth podcast. Make sure to stay to the end to hear Luke’s shout-out to the Near Southside and his choice of Hayden Blackburn and the TechFW team as favorite FW innovators. Colleges and universities trust TimelyMD to provide complete clinical care, advanced technology, and expert guidance to improve their students’ physical and mental health. As the leading virtual health and well-being solution for students in higher education, TimelyMD is inspiring the digital transformation of campus health and the future of student care. About 125 employees (2/3 in DFW area). 1315 S. Adams St.
Texas Health Announces New Internal Medicine Residency Program

Texas Health Resources has announced that it won approval for an internal medicine residency program at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, and a combined program at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Denton and Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford. The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education granted approval, the Arlington-based Texas Health said.

“This is an exciting opportunity that plays a big role in the future of medicine in North Texas and nationwide,” Andrew Masica, Texas Health's senior vice president and chief medical officer of Reliable Health, said in a release.

The three-year programs, which start accepting residents in 2022, are intended to give physicians academic training and hands-on experience as they start their careers.
JPS embarks on $800 million expansion and renovation

Plans are in motion for a major renovation and expansion of JPS Health Network, part of the $800 million Bond Construction Program that Tarrant County voters approved in 2018.

Big-picture plans include building new patient towers, an ambulatory surgery center, and a psychiatric hospital. But, before any of those projects can start, JPS first needs to resolve an issue it's dealt with ever since its main campus opened 83 years ago, according to a JPS newsletter: parking. Read more here
Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center Fort Worth shares that a big project is in the works.

Baylor S&W All Saints Medical Center is drawing up exciting plans for a project at the northern edge of their campus, proposed to combine medical office space, hotel rooms, and an expanded parking garage. The development will respond to pressing needs on several fronts to expand overall capacity of the Near Southside’s medical district. We’re excited to see those final plans currently taking shape in the Magnolia-based offices of design firm HKS.
NEW IN THE NEAR
HARD WORK PAYS OFF FOR DR. JOHN TATE ON SOUTH MAIN STREET

Dr. John graduated Parker University in December 2019 with a passion for healing his community. He had seen so many lives changed by chiropractic care and now that he held his license in his hands, he knew exactly what he wanted to do. Dr. John wanted to open his own clinic, where he could provide chiropractic care to his community and watch people’s lives change in front of his eyes.

Once Dr. John found his ideal location at 126 S. Main Street, he continued to work full time, while going to fix up his clinic in the evening, often time coming home well past midnight covered in paint, sweat, and tears. With the help of his friends and many trips to Home Depot, he opened his clinic in August 2021 and has happily been serving the community since.

At Elite Chiropractic the focus is on the client experience, and whole body health. Learn more about Dr. John Tate and this new Near Southside business.

The Aces Jiu Jitsu Club mission is to empower others with fun, fitness, and self-defense through BJJ at their newest location in the Near Southside! Your introductory session is free.

Aces instructor Marcos Oliveira is a multiple time black belt Jiu Jitsu, and Judo world champion. He also holds a background in wrestling (Brazilian national squad) and is a former professional Mixed Martial Artist (8-3). Professor Marcos earned his black belt under Master Ricardo Liborio.

Instructor Charles Blanchard is a second degree black belt, and former professional mixed martial artist under 6th degree black belt Master Ricardo Liborio who is one of the founders of American Top Team, of the Carlson Gracie lineage, and one of the pioneers of mixed martial arts in America.

This is just a glimpse of the caliber and wealth of martial arts knowledge available at Aces Jiu Jitsu Club
906 Pennsylvania Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

Warren and Jules, owners of Make Something Beautiful, are on the move as they settle into a new office space at Connex in Evans and Rosedale Village.
This powerhouse has a penthouse view from their- top-floor shipping container office space which is perfect for those who look at the world from a different point of view. These creative neighbors fit in perfectly next to MEL/ARCH, the Connex owners/designers.

ABOUT MSB
We are Make Something Beautiful—a video production company based in Texas. We create, films, commercials, documentaries and other creative work that helps support and leverage brands. If there is one thing we have learned in our 15 years of creative storytelling it’s this: stories should do more than exist, they should add something to the world.

Next time you're looking for a smile, check out their video page.
1201 Evans Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104

The newest salon to the Near Southside aims to open another welcoming home for people to relax, get pampered and look their best. Candice Maude comes from two amazing sisters Krystal Neely and Chelsea Neely who have built up a massive local following through the years.

Founded by the granddaughters of two women who understood what it means to work with your hands to create something beautiful, Candice Maude is a luxury salon located in the heart of the Near Southside.

This salon is their love letter to their grandmothers, to Fort Worth, and everyone who has ever been seated in their chairs. For years, the ladies have had a vision for a luxurious salon experience that honored the innate beauty of their clients.

We look forward to welcoming this new salon in the historic 212 S. Main building next to Nickel City.
More details coming soon.
212 S. Main Street, Fort Worth, TX 76104
Coyote Creek Construction is a Fort Worth-based firm specializing in exterior and interior renovations, remodels and additions. Owner Benjamin Hipps and the team have just closed on the former Cannon Chinese Kitchen as the new home for this growing construction business now based in the Near Southside. Renovations are now underway.
304 W. Cannon Street
Corene Hess is one of the most sought-after hair artists in DFW. Hess has been working in hair for 13 years as a Loreal Professional artist teaching hairstylists across the country and a NY Fashion Week hairstylist. Hess' dream of opening her own salon, Salon Atlas, has finally been realized. Her new Near Southside salon is open for business at
710 S. Main Street
Panther City Salon is moving and expanding! They will now be a part of the BRAND NEW 701 building. The salon is also under new management and we’re eager to meet managing partners Brittany DeVille and Rebecca Foster. Come 2022 they will have luxury amenities and suites available to accommodate stylists, estheticians, lash artists, and more!
701 W. Magnolia Ave.
FOOD + DRINKS
RECENT OPENINGS
THE RADLER RIDING HIGH AND OPEN LATE

The former home of The Bearded Lady and Magnolia Tree Tavern has a fresh coat of paint and big renovation indoors. The Radler is a Texas Hill Country themed biergarten. Taking its name from the German word for cyclists, as well as a nod to the fruity beer and soda combos that quench your summer thirst, owners Trey Floyd, Brendan Wilbanks and Morgan Roberts are dishing up a menu with German fare such as pretzels, brats and a full list of craft and import beers. Their patio expansion sets the stage for a full house indoors and out.
Monday through Friday 3:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM

1229 7th Avenue Fort Worth, Texas 76104
A casual watering hole inside the Supreme Golf Warehouse is now open for business. Featuring pool tables, pub games and a classic “dive bar” feel, Distribution Bar offers beverages in a casual lounge space. We look forward to a return of live music on their outdoor stage soon.
201 S. Calhoun Street
West Jax Cigars & Spirits is a premium cigar lounge located in Park Place Village that boasts an impressive spirit selection and 2 oz pours. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or a novice, you can find something to suit your taste.
OPEN EVERY DAY
Mon-Wed: 2pm-10pm
Thu-Sat: 12pm-12am
Sun: 12pm-11pm
1708 8th Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76110
The newest tenant in the SoMa airstream, Crunchy Girl Granola is serving up tasty, healthy treats that we promise is more than just granola. But let's talk about that granola! Sweet, savory, crunchy, seasoned and spectacular - you can order it on a myriad of treats from dipped strawberries to smoothie bowls. Owner Gina Prop has something you’ll enjoy!
125 S. Main Street
TRE MOGLI IS HIRING AS THEY PREPARE TO OPEN THE DOORS

The sign is up at the fourth concept from Stefon Rishel's Trident Restaurant Group. This scratch-made family style Italian restaurant will face historic S. Main Street and offer private dining and large family tables. Indoor renovations of this former factory space show a radical transformation, with elegant touches and a kitchen fit for someone who knows what to do with a flame.

Watch for an opening announcement soon. Or join the team by emailing [email protected].

401 S. Main Street.

Longtime Near Southside bartender Megan McClinton opened Tricks of the Trade, a unique bottle shop and spirits store in the historic Greenlee Building at the corner of S. Main Street and Broadway Avenue, just before the holidays. Have you stopped by yet?

So what's the difference between a bottle shop and a liquor store? A lot. Mostly, it's the spirit of the space (see what we did there) and the carefully curated selection. Tricks of the Trade is designed to provide shoppers with an opportunity to explore lesser known brands, inform them of industry trends and offer access to a skilled staff that can help you assemble the perfect cocktail kit or expansion to your personal bar. With knowledge of small-batch and artisan spirits and mixers, the store hosts regular educational classes. Megan has a few upcoming events, so keep track of her FB and IG for product updates and ways to get involved in a class.

219 S. Main Street
Fort Worth, TX 76104

In the former Jim's Lock and Key space on Magnolia Avenue at Fairmount Avenue, construction is wrapping up on a new micro distillery and restaurant space from Richardson-based (but now Fort Worth-proud) Lockwood Distilling. Lisa and the team have poured a lot of heart and soul into this really cool new indoor/outdoor spot. The Fort Worth Lockwood Distilling menu will vary slightly from their Richardson fare but promises to offer delicious drinks made from the expansive list of spirits they made including Whiskey, Bourbon, Bourbon Cream Liqueur, Gin, Vodka, Rum. They are famous for their various flavored spirits such as hibiscus vodka and cinnamon rum. Opening last month, reports are already in that this new Near Southside hangout is doing it right and dishing up a great time with fare worthy of an IG post. Stop by to welcome them to the Near Southside!

1411 W. Magnolia Ave.
Fort Worth, TX 76104
OPENING SOON
Evans Avenue Addition

Four years since the start of their company, HustleBlendz is soon to open their flagship store in Suite #101 of Connex. They are super excited to be the “in-house” coffee shop for Connex tenants and the community at large, and add a great new retail business to the Evans and Rosedale Village where many other landmark projects are taking shape such as Ms. Opal Lee's National Juneteenth Museum that is proposed across Rosedale from the new coffeehouse. Founded in 2019 by Tweety and Patrice Angwenyi, the husband and wife team has dedicated their lives to creating this company. Their love of coffee propelled the idea of combining faith and coffee in a new business. We're eager to welcome them to their new home at Connex and will make certain to share an opening date as soon as announced.

1201 Evans Ave, Suite 101 Fort Worth, TX 76104
Magnolia Makeovers
THE BEAST AND COMPANY WILL ANNOUNCE OPENING DATES SOON! Exactly one year ago today Chef Dustin Lee stepped into the shuttered Mamma Mia's Restaurant on Magnolia Avenue. Ever since then, he has been hard at work building the dream of a New American fine dining restaurant in one of Magnolia's prime storefronts. This hardworking restaurant space has experienced a full renovation, from new kitchen walls to an elevated dining room. Take a look at that transformation photo by photo here. Along the way, Dustin welcomed a crucial teammate, Chef Michael Arlt.

Growing up in the panhandle of Florida, Chef Arlt's homelife was surrounded by food. Whether it was watching and helping his mother make dinner of Puerto Rican rice, beans and pork or helping his grandmother make Southern staples like country ham, mac-n-cheese and banana pudding, it didn’t take long for him to find the passion for cooking and watching people gather at the table. At Johnson and Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina he worked as a cook in Emeril Lagasse’s restaurant, making southern and creole dishes like gumbo, courtbouillon and chicken and waffles that were so inspiring in their humbleness and pronounced flavor. Ultimately, the love for this regional cooking would lead him back to the Gulf Coast of Florida, where he would meet and work under his to-be mentor, Chef Lawrence Klang who taught him classical and new world techniques. Next Chef Arlt found a new chapter and style of food, specifically South Eastern Asian cuisine, in Portland, Maine. There, the levels of fine dining in Relais Chateaux helped to refine and balance exciting flavors that were unapologetic in a more elegant style. After years of working under Chef Klang, he would follow his wife to Chicago, where he would work at Cindy’s Rooftop under Chef Christian Ragano. Along with a talented team of chefs, he would help curate and execute menus that were vibrant and aggressively seasonal that secured Cindy’s the title as the best rooftop dining experience in the city. He would go on to represent Cindy’s in Hyatt’s Good Taste Series, where he won best chef in the Midwest.

The calling of the South would not be ignored, and after years of being in the Windy City, Michael moved to the DFW area. Meeting Dustin and seeing the beautiful and historic Magnolia Village, Chef Arlt now aims to bring his knowledge to guests of The Beast & Co. Supporting local purveyors, farmers and ranchers as well as working within the framework of seasons is key. Both chefs look forward to bringing honest, good food that will bring Fort Worth new and exciting experiences.

WATCH FOR AN OPENING DATE BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH

1000 W. Magnolia Ave.
Fort Worth, Texas 76104

Trey Neville's Mercantile building on 8th Avenue has long been home to great Asian food with Wabi House as an anchor tenant, but behind the scenes (literally, behind the building in a food truck) Ober Here's Chef Mark Guatelara has been dishing up bowls of Filipino heaven for long lines of foodies. Now, Mark is preparing to move indoors for a brick-and-mortar Near Southside Home. And he isn't alone. Trey and the Graham LTD team are beginning construction on a new mini food hall at the ground floor of The Mercantile. Ober Here will be joined by Sharetea, a boba tea bar with an impressive assortment of flavors from peach kiwi tea with aiju jelly to matcha red bean milk tea. This will be the second location for Sharetea, but they will neighbor a well-established national restaurant group, Burnin' Mouth, that has taken Nashville Hot Chicken on the road. Their chicken comes in five levels of heat, is paired with spicy krinkle fries, and the classic sides of coleslaw and house-made buttermilk ranch. Welcome to Mercantile Food Hall.
CHEBA HUT
Sitting in our office at the corner of 8th Avenue and Mistletoe Blvd, we noticed a coming soon sign pop up directly across the street from us in what was the former Super Chix space at The Mercantile. It looks like Wabi House and White Rhino Coffee are getting an additional neighbor to the Food Hall tenants. Cheba Hut is a “Toasted” sub concept that has been curing munchies since its start in 1998. Founder Scott Jennings decided to showcase the harmony between great tasting food and … well, a very specific counter-culture. The menu features over 30 signature sub sandwiches, as well as a variety of Rice Krispy treats, salads and munchies. Most locations also offer craft beer bars that feature local beers from neighborhood breweries. This location will be franchised by Chance Steed and details about late night hours and bar service are still forthcoming. Fort Worth native Chance Steed sees Fort Worth’s laid-back, friendly vibe as one akin to the fun-loving nature of Cheba Hut. His hope is for Cheba Hut Fort Worth to feel like a family business and a place where friends can meet up and enjoy good food while having a great time.

1217 8th Avenue Fort Worth, Texas 76104
Surely you've spotted the construction fences around Paris Coffee Shop. Extensive interior renovations are underway at this iconic breakfast and lunch restaurant. We've even seen them carrying out all of the kitchen equipment for a revamp of the spaces behind the curtain, too. Under the leadership of Lou Lambert, the new ownership team is guiding this Magnolia gem into its next chapter. They've promised to protect the same classic Paris-charm while adding a new back patio, menu updates and an interior makeover complete with a bar that serves up more than black coffee. 704 W. Magnolia Avenue
South Main Gains
Set to open in the summer of 2022, The Coupe is a new Near Southside bubble bar that will feature sparkling wines and light bites. They are the first of a handful of tenants at 314 S. Main Street where construction has just started. This former attorney's office has an exciting transformation planned as The Coupe and others (see next story ----->) arrive in South Main Village with some fresh ideas and an experience not yet offered in the district.
PARDE TACOS
John and Mario have been best friends since 7th grade. After figuring out that the oil & gas world was not their long-term dream, they decided to make the big leap into becoming restauranteurs. Using family recipes from Mario’s mother, Parde Tacos promises to bring new flavors to S. Main Street. This community-centered business is eager to open the doors and welcome you into their family with a meal soon.
314 S. Main St. Fort Worth, TX 76104
The space formerly occupied by Low Key Tavern, is soon to reopen with a very special addition to the Near Southside's (and Fort Worth's) music scene. Pinky’s Champagne Room & Velvet Jazz Lounges will have bubbles, booze & live jazz. A place for cool cats to break it down, imbibe and enjoy local music. Owners John Cocke and Dena Mangrum-Cocke, who both have worked in the food & beverage industry and are opening their very first place and we could not be more proud that they chose the Near Southside to build the dream. More to come soon. Check out these awesome side tables as a preview.
615 S. Jennings Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76104
has plans for new brick-and-mortar home with outdoor patio and expansive dining space.
1012 S. Main Street
What started as a taco trailer making appearances on the North Side and in the cultural district off of Morton at The Yard is now moving to their first brick and mortar home here in the Near Southside's South Main Village! Taqueria Acapulco has signed a lease at 1007 S. Main Street in the restaurant space beside Four Sisters - Taste of Vietnam. With the addition of Taqueria Acapulco this block of S. Main Street is starting to bustle as BRIX BBQ begins construction across the street and regular shows at Main at South Side are returning after pandemic postponements. We look forward to welcoming these new friends.
1007 S. Main Street
Fort Worth, Texas 76104
is expanding with renovations inside the Republic Street Bar for kitchen and dining which will help make a dent in the long lines that form daily for this top-notch barbecue that sure makes the Southside proud.
201 E. Hattie Street
Do you have news to share or a project we should know about? Let's talk!
NEAR SOUTHSIDE MAKING HEADLINES
MS. OPAL, WE SAY YES!

Lawmakers penned a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee on Monday urging them to honor civil rights icon Opal Lee with a Nobel Peace Prize. 
“We the undersigned members of the United States Congress, respectfully nominate Ms. Opal Lee to receive the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her work to establish Juneteenth as a national holiday and bring awareness to the contributions and struggles of African Americans in the United States, as well as her mission to create a more equitable society for humanity,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to the committee's chairwoman, Berit Reiss-Andersen.
The lawmakers said Lee worked tirelessly to help bring recognition to the date of ​​Juneteenth, also citing her decades of teaching and opposing white supremacy. 

 



 
 




 


 





 




 




















NEAR SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY CALENDAR
The Near Southside is home to hundreds of destinations such as restaurants, music venues, theaters, and galleries offering events and entertainment.
SOVEREIGN JEWELRY ESTATE SALE

February 17 & 18
10am to 6pm
Once a year Branden and Liza Smith host a truly special, one-of-a-kind estate sale event featuring jewelry that simply cannot be found anywhere else. Select from a collection of jewelry including Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Retro, Vintage, and Cocktail periods Plus contemporary treasures, exotic gems, and signed pieces.

207 S Jennings Ave
Fort Worth, TX 76104
HULL WORKS
HAPPY HOUR

February 17 5:30 - 7:30pm

Join Hull Work’s founder Brent Hull and fellow building craftsmen for shop talk, beers, snacks. This Building & Brews event will focus on the Arts & Crafts Movement (1880-1920). This period was a backlash against the industrialization of England and America. It was a reform movement, a positive reevaluation of hand craftsmanship. Bungalow, Four Square, Spanish Colonial Revival; Storybook; California Ranch and Tudor Revival house styles all emerged during the Arts & Crafts movement, often referred to as “the golden age of craft,” when carpenters and their hand tools were celebrated. What did craftsmen know during this period? How did they respond to the new popular demand for these house types? What materials and tools did they work with? What influence has the Arts & Crafts Movement had on building and architecture today? Learn all of these and more during Hull’s lecture. We hope to see you there! This event will be held in-person or you can join live on YouTube.

201 Lipscomb St, Fort Worth, TX 76104
GRAND CRU
LIVE MUSIC

Grand Cru is hosting a series of exciting and romantic events through the month of February. Make plans now for curated wine tastings, live music and more!

February 19 6:30 to 9:30 
Live Music with Brad Thompson


1257 W Magnolia Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104
CHILI COOK OFF AT THE HOP
 
February 26 11am-4pm

The Team Fed-Up Annual Chili Cook-Off is an event put on by a local Fort Worth cycling team that also functions as a 501(c)(3) charity. The purpose of the event is to raise money that supports their small operating costs, with all remaining monies going directly to the charities that they ride for, such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. They are passionate about their goal, and each rider will complete approximately 150 miles of riding over the two day event, this May 14-15.

Please come out to support them, as they work to raise funds for their cause! The chili will be tasty, the beer will be cold (and also tasty), and you will be supporting both a good cause as well as a handful of local businesses. Tickets $15, all you can taste! 

Near Southside, Inc. is a member-funded nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing the Near Southside of Fort Worth. For more than 25 years we have been leading initiatives to restore, reinvent and renew the Near Southside district and community. Learn more about getting involved today.