Named after a nearby World War I military training camp, much of Camp Bowie Boulevard’s history has been preserved in the buildings and the boulevard still laid with red bricks. Just a short drive from downtown, it is home to legendary spots in Fort Worth including bakeries, boutiques, eateries and shops.
EAT
Lucille’s, a time-honored Fort Worth mainstay, is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and breakfast on the weekends. Their classic chicken fried steak is one of the best in the city and the menu of burgers and sandwiches includes a lobster roll, Reuben and fabulous grilled cheese. Sit at their intimate bar to sip a cocktail or snack on fried green tomatoes.
Camp Bowie has lots to choose from if you’re looking for Italian fare. Bella Italia serves Northern Italian and wild game specialties in a beautiful, decorative setting. For wood-fired pizzas in a casual dining space, head to Olivella’s Pizza and Wine, which recently expanded its dining area to the space next door. The longstanding chain Campisi’soffers classic Italian fare and thin-crust pizza. Piatello Italian Kitchen is a cheery spot for house made pastas, pizza, cocktails and Italian coffee.
Zoli’s Pizza is a great place to take the kiddos! With an outdoor terrace, playground, delicious New York-style pies, beer and cocktails, the whole family is sure to enjoy this one. Gemelle is an Instagrammer’s dream, with an adorable outdoor patio, neon signs and beautiful craft cocktails. Their menu is a mix of Italian favorites and daily specials, and they serve a specialty drink to guests every night at sunset.
In addition to Gulf Coast inspired seafood, premium steaks, an extensive wine list and southern hospitality, Fitzgeraldalso has live music and wine tastings. For a sushi fix visit Tokyo Café, the bright, airy space with sushi, bowls and build-your-own bento boxes.
The award-winning Kincaid’s Hamburgers is a local favorite with all the burger joint classics and crinkle cut fries in an unfussy setting. The lunch-only spot, The Lunch Box, serves sandwiches, soups, salads and quiches. Lettuce Cookoffers creative breakfasts, sandwiches and salads in a fun locale, complete with a classic Fort Worth mural on the side of the building.
Some of Fort Worth’s favorite dessert spots are on Camp Bowie. The historic Blue Bonnet Bakery, located in the sanctuary of an old church, will wow you with its petite fours and festive themed cookies and cupcakes.
Can’t decide between a hot dog or ice cream? Curly’s Frozen Custard has both! Drive through or walk up to the window to enjoy on their astroturf patio. Fort Worth Fudge and Toffee has everything to satisfy your sweet tooth with 15 flavors of homemade fudge and tons of treats and candy options.
NIGHTLIFE
For the wine-lover, Winslow’s Wine Café’s cozy interior is the perfect place to indulge with friends. Their outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy the Texas weather with a chilled glass of wine.
If dive bars are more your speed, check out Sarah’s Place, a friendly neighborhood bar that stays open late.
SHOP
Roy Pope Grocery is a historic boutique grocery store with a large beer & wine section, butcher counter, hot deli and outdoor seating.
For women’s boutiques check out Birdie’s, Hemline, You Are Here, Hale House, Mayfair or Beehive for stylish finds. For luxury home goods, visit P.S. the Letter where you can find wedding registries, bedding, jewelry, dishes, luggage, fashion accessories and furniture just to name a few.
Visitors with a green thumb can head to Grow Plant Shop to find indoor and garden plants, pottery, handmade baskets and apothecary items.
If you’re looking for antiques, head to the shopping center on the corner of Camp Bowie Blvd and Belle Place. Antiques in Fort Worth, Carter Bowen Antiques, Pease-Cobb Antiques, and K. Flories Antiques are all located here.
The Chapel Hill Shopping Center has stores like The Container Store, World Market, Central Market, James Avery Jewelry Store, Orvis Retail Store, Men’s Warehouse and LOFT.
ENTERTAINMENT
The Ridglea Theater was built in 1947 and hosts screening events, film festivals, orchestras, corporate functions, weddings and concerts. It still maintains authentic details such as the original terrazzo tile floor, murals and a grand balcony.
Art on the Boulevard is an artists’ co-operative that wants artists to express themselves without boundaries. Their collection is mostly local and modern art, and they host events such as “Art and Margaritas” and Gallery Nights. William Campbell Gallery is a veteran gallery space with a variety of contemporary art by nationally recognized artists.