Rusty Taco to Open Inside Dallas Lakewood Theater
The taco chain is moving into the historic theater lobby to replace the space formerly occupied by Double Dave's.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Dining Out
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Rusty Taco announced in October 2026 that it will open a new restaurant inside the historic Lakewood Theater lobby in Dallas. The space was previously occupied by Double Dave's, which will cease operations at the venue.
Why it matters
The move brings a well-known local brand into a historic community landmark, offering dining options for visitors to the theater and The Balcony Club. This expansion represents a new chapter for the venue, which has undergone various transformations since it opened in 1938.
Rusty Taco currently maintains 24 restaurant locations across eight states. The Lakewood Theater building itself is approximately 90 years old, having originally opened for business in 1938.
The players
Rusty Taco
A restaurant chain founded in 2010 that currently operates 24 locations across eight states.
Lakewood Theater
A historic East Dallas landmark that opened in 1938 and now houses the Bowlski's bowling alley.
The Balcony Club
A music and social venue that will continue to operate on the second floor of the Lakewood Theater.
Double Dave's
A restaurant chain that is ceasing its operations inside the Lakewood Theater lobby.
The details
The upcoming restaurant will occupy the lobby area previously utilized by Double Dave's. While construction is set to begin soon, the new site will offer a smaller menu compared to standard Rusty Taco restaurants, with food service also available to patrons of The Balcony Club located on the second floor.
Timeline
1938: The Lakewood Theater began operations as a movie house.
2010: The original Rusty Taco opened on Greenville Avenue.
2013: Rusty Taco founder Rusty Fenton died.
2019: Lakewood Theater was transformed into the bowling alley Bowlski's.
October 2026: Rusty Taco announced its expansion to Lakewood Theater.
Culture Shift
The addition of Rusty Taco follows the pattern established by the 2019 transformation of Lakewood Theater into Bowlski's by continuing the adaptive reuse of the historic building. This reflects a broader trend of integrating fast-casual dining into long-standing community landmarks.
Patrons of the theater and The Balcony Club will soon have direct access to food from the new taco location. Visitors should expect a smaller menu than they might encounter at other Rusty Taco locations when the site eventually opens.
The takeaway
Historic entertainment venues often require new partnerships to remain active hubs for the community. Residents can look forward to dining options that complement the existing nightlife at the theater location.
Further reading
For more on the local food scene, see our Dining Out section.
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