The Old Mill Inn, one of Dallas’ most historic dining landmarks, is making a comeback. Originally built in 1936, the Fair Park staple has remained dormant since the pandemic. This summer, the Old Mill Inn will return as a fully operational restaurant, bar, and patio.
Built in 1936 for the Texas Centennial and World Fair, the building was designed as a replicate of McKinney’s Burrus Flour Mill using some of the mill’s original timber. At the time, the rustic venue was comprised of three model kitchens, a flour mill, and tea room. Here, the restaurant served an assortment of scratch-made southern comfort foods.
Over time, the venue has hosted several State Fair staples, including the Borden’s Dairy exhibit, Youngblood’s Fried Chicken, El Chico, and finally, the Old Mill Inn. During the pandemic, the Old Mill Inn closed its doors.
However, longtime State Fair of Texas concessionaire, Isaac Rousso, recently acquired the property. Rousso plans to completely revive the restaurant into a fully operational bar and restaurant.
“The Old Mill Inn is one of the most magical, irreplaceable buildings in all of Dallas,” said Rousso in a press release. “When I walked through those doors, I saw everything it could be — the history, the architecture, the soul of it. I’m not just reopening a restaurant. I’m restoring a Texas treasure, and I’m doing it right.”
Notably, the revitalized inn will feature a ranch-style gathering hall, restored paddle wheel, an expansive patio seating 300 patrons. While the full menu has yet to be released, it will include numerous dishes by Rousso. Patrons can expect a menu of burgers, flatbreads, wraps, charcuterie, salads, and Cuban pulled-pork sandwiches.
Rousso, himself, is a staple at the State Fair of Texas. Rousso’s Concessions is a multiple-award winner at the State Fair, including awards for “Best Taste”, “Most Creative”, and “Best Sweet” – the latter for cotton candy bacon on a stick.
With plans to reopen the Old Mill Inn in full later this summer, the restaurant is presently in a soft opening phase – offering special previews during the World Cup festivities from 11 am – 3 pm until July 19. A complete opening is scheduled for late summer, just ahead of the State Fair.
Old Mill Inn at Fair Park is located at 3611 Grand Ave in Fair Park.
