Christmas is Back and So Are the Margaritas at Campo Verde in Dalworthington Gardens

Some of its over-the-top Christmas decorations are gone, but the miniature train at the destination restaurant Campo Verde still circles the dining room.

Yes, Campo Verde Mexican Bar & Grill re-opened June 6 at its legendary location at 2918 W. Pioneer Parkway in Dalworthington Gardens. A soft opening June 5 gave friends, politicians, and media a preview of what the “new” yet old look was. Even though it was June, Christmas decorations were still decking the halls of this Mexican hangout.

Chef Mouhssine “Moose” Benhamacht and partner Liesl “Li” Best of Barbary West Hospitality revealed their new take on the beloved Tex-Mex destination that’s open for Tex-Mex favorites and signature margaritas. They’re the team behind Cafe Americana in Arlington, and this Tex-Mex spot is the pair’s newest venture. The restaurant, a brightly-painted eye-catcher along Pioneer Parkway in the 1.8-square-mile town of Dalworthington gardens, bordered by Pantego but mostly assumed to be Arlington.

Pantego Is a Town Within a City, But It Has That Neighborhood Feel

40 Years of Tinsel

For more than 40 years, the kitschy Christmas lights were a magnet for those needing their Tex-Mex fix with a side of Christmas. Why settle for Flag Day or Father’s Day or 4^th of July when you can go full-tilt ho-ho-ho? But in early January of this year, the beloved spot closed its doors, leaving locals wondering where they’d get their hit of guac with a side of tinsel.

There was talk about financial woes and maybe a bad health department inspection, but that’s all in the rear-view mirror now. The floors, that some said were better not looked at, have been replaced, the place has been scrubbed, the holiday glitz edited a bit, and the Christmas lights twinkle brighter.

Still Shiny

So fear not, Campo Verde is making a comeback and is ready for walk-in business again. Chef Moose promises a fresh twist on the cuisine and cocktails, but the fun still shines as brightly as Rudolph’s legendary nose.

“Campo Verde is where sweet memories were made and celebrations were held by generations of families in this community,” the chef said in a prepared statement. “We’re bringing it back to life—with heart, flavor, and joy.”

Benhamacht was named executive chef in 2019 for Live! By Loews in Arlington, and has worked alongside famed chefs in other cities. Now he combines his skills with the Tex-Mex menu with a little Christmas magic on the side.

Reservations are available now at TheCampoVerde.com.