Fort Worth Chef & Austin Favorite Tim Love Launches Unique New Croquet Cocktail Club  

Renowned Texas chef and entrepreneur Tim Love is launching a new and unique concept: Stewart’s Croquet & Cocktails. Love, who serves as the official chef for Austin City Limits and co-founded the Austin Food & Wine Festival, is known for his Lonesome Dove restaurants in both Austin and Fort Worth (the latter celebrating its 25th anniversary this summer).

Opening this spring in Fort Worth’s River District, Stewart’s will blend the timeless elegance of croquet with the artistry of craft cocktails and “amped-up country club food.” The destination promises to unite high-end culinary experiences with casual, social entertainment.

Situated along the Trinity Trail at 4424 White Settlement Road, Stewart’s is named after Love’s father, Stewart, and draws inspiration from Love’s cherished memories of playing croquet on his father’s farm in Tennessee. 

“This is the place I want to be at 3 p.m., having a cocktail and a light bite before dinner, unwinding from the day,” Love says. “It’s a country club for the people — a place where anyone can come together and enjoy life’s simple pleasures without the usual barriers.”

“Elite club feel without the membership”

The design of Stewart’s will reflect Love’s vision of inclusivity and sophistication. Refurbished from a 1940s grocery store/deli, the 1,100-square-foot indoor space will feature a vintage mid-century modern style, blending sleek lines with warm wood accents and plush seating. Indoors, seating for 28 guests, including a private dining room for up to eight (through a secret bookcase), will provide an intimate yet refined setting.

Outdoors, a sprawling 15,000-square-foot lawn will welcome guests for croquet games, live entertainment, and relaxation. With full service available, patrons will enjoy refreshments in branded cups while playing croquet. Stewart’s will even offer traditional “Croquet Whites” jackets and sweaters for guests to borrow, ensuring everyone feels part of the experience.

The menu at Stewart’s will feature modern takes on classic country club fare, such as lobster rolls, shrimp cocktail, and steak frites. Designed as a venue for sharing bites rather than full meals, it will also showcase interactive cocktails, complete with tableside presentations and signature drinks.

Stewart’s will join Love’s nearby ventures, Hotel Otto and Gemelle, to form a destination for dining and leisure along the Trinity River. Stewart’s unique blend of leisure and culinary excellence will likely make it a popular Fort Worth destination.

“I love croquet, and I love cocktails,” Love says. “And, Fort Worth needs a good spot for both.”

Stay tuned for more details at www.cheftimlove.com.

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