Isaac Rousso Reopened Historic Old Mill Inn
The Fair Park restaurant offers a refreshed dining option for visitors during the 2026 State Fair.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Dining Out
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Operator Isaac Rousso has reopened the historic Old Mill Inn in Dallas. The restaurant, located within Fair Park, provides fairgoers a full-service dining space featuring both indoor and outdoor seating.
Why it matters
The project aims to give visitors a seated dining alternative to the typical fairground food experience, offering shade and a slower pace for those attending the State Fair.
The restaurant occupies a building constructed in 1936, now featuring seating for 120 guests indoors and 300 on an outdoor patio. The operator manages 13 other concession stands at the fair.
The players
Isaac Rousso
The experienced operator manages 13 concession stands at the State Fair and won a Big Tex Choice Award in 2024.
The details
The Old Mill Inn, situated at 3611 Grand Avenue, has been restored with Mexican tile floors and original wood accents. The menu serves a variety of items including pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and cheese boards.
Timeline
The building housing the restaurant was originally constructed in 1936.
A soft opening for the restaurant took place in June 2026.
The State Fair opened its gates to the public on September 25, 2026.
The State Fair is scheduled to close on October 18, 2026.
Culture Shift
The renovation follows the established pattern of preserving and repurposing historical structures within the Fair Park grounds. This project reflects a broader movement to modernize legacy fairground spaces while maintaining their original architectural character.
Fairgoers can now plan for a sit-down meal in a climate-controlled lounge or the outdoor wine garden rather than relying solely on grab-and-go stands. The restaurant provides a specific destination for those looking to escape the heat during the fair's duration.
The takeaway
The Old Mill Inn offers a unique blend of historical atmosphere and modern dining convenience for State Fair attendees. Visitors should prepare for potential crowds and check operating hours as the fair season moves toward its October closing date.
Further reading
For more on the local food scene, see our Dining Out section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cravedfw.
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Do you prefer a sit-down meal when attending local fairs or festivals?
