Los Vaqueros, a beloved Tex-Mex restaurant in Fort Worth, is officially announcing its last day at its original location on North Main Street. The restaurant, which has been a staple of the Northside community for nearly 30 years, will close its doors at 3 p.m. on December 22. Los Vaqueros will reopen at its new location in the historic Stockyards Exhibits Building at 2513 Rodeo Plaza on December 26, just in time for the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.
For the Cisneros family, who have operated Los Vaqueros since its founding in 1982, the decision to remain open through the holiday season was emotional, according to a release. The restaurant has been the site of countless family gatherings, and the family wanted to ensure a smooth transition while allowing patrons to enjoy one final Christmas season at the iconic location.
“We couldn’t imagine leaving before Christmas,” said Vicki Cisneros, president of Cisneros Restaurants Inc. “This building has been home to so many special moments for us and our community.”
The new Los Vaqueros location at 2513 Rodeo Plaza will be housed in the historic Stockyards Exhibits Building, a site known for its rich Western heritage. The building is located near the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame and the John Wayne: An American Experience Museum. Los Vaqueros will honor the history of the Stockyards with a commemorative plaque recognizing the first indoor rodeo, which, according to the Lone Star State, took place in the area.
The new restaurant location will feature modern amenities, including a banquet room for 100 guests, a Fiesta Room for 50, and an outdoor patio. Additionally, "Los Vaqueros After Dark" will offer late-night Tex-Mex options, with extended hours until 1 a.m. on weekends.
The move to the Stockyards also brings new parking arrangements to consider. Free parking will be available Sunday through Thursday at the Billy Bob's Texas lot, and valet services are in the works for added convenience. The restaurant is also exploring a designated drop-off area for easier access.
Founded by Johnny and Amelia "Kiki" Cisneros, Los Vaqueros has been a family-run establishment since 1982. The restaurant’s name, meaning "the cowboys," is a tribute to their sons, Johnny and Michael. Today, the restaurant continues to serve up scratch-made Tex-Mex dishes that highlight the family’s passion for quality ingredients and traditional flavors.
As Los Vaqueros bids farewell to its original location on North Main Street, it invites patrons to celebrate one final holiday season before the move. Be sure to visit Los Vaqueros before December 22 and join the Cisneros family for one last meal in the iconic location.
“We’re excited to begin this new chapter in the Stockyards,” Vicki said. “We look forward to welcoming old friends and new guests to our new location at Rodeo Plaza.”
