Founder of Craft Restaurant and Beer Market finds ‘perfect’ location in luxury area
DALLAS — This article was originally published by our content partners at the Dallas Business Journal. You can read the original article here.
A popular Canadian restaurant chain known for its huge beer selection will make its U.S. debut in Dallas — and it’s in part thanks to the owner of the Dallas Stars.
Craft Restaurant and Beer Market announced Jan. 13 plans to open its first U.S. location in early 2026 at Preston Center. The flagship location will be in a 10,500-square-foot space and feature a 360-degree bar at its center with more than 100 beers on tap, including Texas brews.
The Calgary-based chain, started in 2011, chose to come to Dallas because of a partnership between founder PJ L’Heureux and Dallas Stars owner Tom Gaglardi, whose Northland Properties Corp. also owns the successful Moxies restaurant chain. L’Heureux and Gaglardi began partnering in 2019, setting the stage for Craft’s expansion into the United States.
Gaglardi bought the Stars in 2011. He brought Moxies to Dallas in 2016 with its location at the Crescent in Uptown. Moxies has since added locations in Southlake and Plano.
With Gaglardi’s business experience, understanding of the market and community ties, Dallas emerged as an ideal choice. L’Heureux described Dallas as a “natural fit for Craft.”
“Our large restaurant footprint, commitment to local products, and dedication to community are what Texas is all about,” L’Heureux said in a statement. “Texas and specifically the Preston area of Dallas, with its booming economy, diverse culture, and love for craft cocktails and beer, is the perfect place for us to begin this exciting new chapter.”
The restaurant will be located at 5974 Northwest Hwy., in what used to be a Medical City ER. Construction to renovate the space is set to begin in March and has an estimated cost of $4 million, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Such filings are preliminary and often subject to change but can provide an early look into construction plans.
Canadian boutique interior design firm Way of Normal and Irving-based ID Studio 4 are partnering to design the restaurant. Guests can anticipate a “modern yet welcoming interior,” featuring warm woods and industrial accents, according to the announcement. The restaurant will also include a 5,250-square-foot rooftop patio, complete with a full bar, booth seating, lush greenery and a games area.
The restaurant’s menu will have some local flavor by partnering with Texas-based breweries and food suppliers.
Craft sees the Dallas opening as the first step in the company’s broader plans to establish a strong presence in key American cities over the next decade.
“CRAFT has always been about bringing people together, and we’re thrilled to share our passion for craft beer, exceptional dining, and community building with our friends in the Texas market,” L’Heureux said.