Super Bowl LVIII was not the only good game in town Sunday evening, as one local restaurant brought the community together with friendly rivalries, hoorahs, high-fives, and homemade chili.
Located in the heart of historic downtown Richardson, The Tavern on Main Street is a popular gathering place serving the community for over four decades. Situated in the heart of the city, the building has a captivating past that dates back to the late 1800s. With its timeless charm and inviting ambiance, it has become the epitome of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
“Like a lot of Richardson, The Tavern has its own history, but it is also evolving like our downtown area is — it honors the past while embracing the future,” said City Manager Don Magner to The Dallas Express.
The restaurant’s legacy is reflected not only in its architecture and decor but also in the memories of countless patrons who have shared stories, spirits, and meals here. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or meeting new ones, The Tavern is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Tavern is renowned for its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, with all the food made from scratch daily, including “the best steaks around,” owner Jerry Harkins declared. These aren’t just words, as The Tavern’s pulled pork, ribs, and chicken fried steak are just a few of the mouth-watering delights that Harkin’s chef, who came from the culinary field under Wolfgang Puck, creates with excellence.
On February 11, two showdowns occurred: The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the San Fransico 49ers in overtime, 25-22, and The Tavern’s homemade chili cook-off commenced, with three winners taking home gift certificates and bragging rights.
Judges for the community cook-off included Richardson notables such as City Manager Don Magner, Mayor Bob Dubey, and former city council members Kendal Hartley and Scott Dunn.
“This is a place of community in the City of Richardson,” said Dubey. “Good food and good people.”
Magner echoed these sentiments. “Small businesses like The Tavern are really the heart and soul of Richardson. As we continue to recreate the Core District, small businesses are going to be of the utmost importance, so anything that we can do as a city or individually to help them be successful, that’s what we want to do.”
If you’re looking for a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with delicious food, friendly service, and a full bar, The Tavern on Main Street is the perfect place to visit. Live music performances by Jerry Don Branch & Co. every Thursday, karaoke nights on Fridays and Saturdays, as well as foosball, pool, and large-screen TVs are just a few of the added perks to enhance your experience.
