The Lonesome Dove Western Bistro

Lonesome Dove Western Bistro in Fort Worth, Texas

Overview

Lonesome Dove Western Bistro, opened in 2000 by Chef Tim Love in the Fort Worth Stockyards, redefined urban Western cuisine with bold, inventive flavors and high-quality steaks, wild game, and seafood. Over the years, it has become a local icon and national influence. Chef Tim Love rose to prominence when he defeated Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto in a “Chile Pepper” battle on Iron Chef America, cementing his reputation as a culinary trailblazer.

Why Go

• A culinary pioneer in Texas, renowned for redefining Western fine dining
• Chef Tim Love’s Iron Chef victory brought national attention to the restaurant
• Celebrated for 25 years of influence with special tasting menus and signature wild game dishes

Menu & Format

• Extensive menu of wild game, steaks, seafood, and creative starters crafted with urban Western flair
• Special anniversary tasting menus showcase Love’s most iconic dishes
• Don’t miss the famous ancho chile chocolate cake, a dessert tied to Love’s Iron Chef win

What to Order

For adventurous diners, start with wild game appetizers like the rabbit-rattlesnake sausage or elk sliders. Steak lovers should consider the signature beef tenderloin or wild boar ribs. Always finish with the ancho chile chocolate cake—its smoky, spicy-sweet flavor is legendary.

Atmosphere & Vibe

Located in the historic Stockyards, the bistro blends rustic charm with refined dining. Expect warm wood accents, cowboy-inspired art, and a lively dining room that feels both sophisticated and true to its Western roots.

Price Range

À la carte entrées generally range from $30–$65, with wild game and specialty cuts priced higher. Tasting menus for special events can run around $200–$250 per person. Desserts like the ancho chile chocolate cake are about $12–$15.

Good to Know

• Reservations: Strongly recommended, especially on weekends
• Chef’s Legacy: Tim Love is considered one of Fort Worth’s most influential chefs
• Payments: Major credit cards accepted

Best For

• Food enthusiasts seeking innovative Western-style cuisine
• Special occasions and celebrations
• Diners wanting to taste Fort Worth’s most iconic dessert

Writer’s Tip

Ask your server about off-menu chef specials—Tim Love is known for seasonal creativity. And whatever you do, save room for the ancho chile chocolate cake; it’s a piece of Iron Chef history you can actually eat.