Last Call for J. Black's
Popular Austin bar closes Dallas location after 5 years in business
After five years of serving cocktails and upscale pub grub on trendy Henderson Avenue in Dallas, J. Black's Feel Good Kitchen & Lounge will close on May 2.
According to a statement from Manera Restaurant Group, which is J. Black's Austin-based owner, the uptick in bars opening on Henderson and surrounding areas created increased competition for business. "With the resurgence of Lower Greenville, the Henderson Avenue location saw a downturn in business, which eventually led to the closing," the statement reads.
Co-founder Sean Fric said he regretted the closure. "Unfortunately, this location didn't work out as long term as we would've hoped," he said. "But we love Dallas and appreciate the five great years we had here on Henderson."
J. Black's opened on May 2, 2010, with reasonably priced drinks in a comfortable setting including a showpiece patio at the entrance. It was among the first to host a "bloody Mary bar" with help-yourself toppings.
The bar will remain open for the next two weeks, ending with a two-day Last Call closing weekend party on May 1-2. Doors open at 4 pm both days and will feature "clear the shelves" drink specials throughout the weekend.
"Manera Restaurant Group would like to thank their loyal patrons, neighbors, vendors and most importantly their dedicated staff for whom the success of J. Black's would not have been possible," the statement reads.
The company will renew its focus on the J. Black's locations in Houston and Austin, while also preparing to launch new concepts in Austin.
