Regulars at Watters Creek Village in Allen showed up craving bruschetta and lobster bisque this week and instead got a taped-up farewell note. Brio Italian Grille has quietly pulled out of the shopping center, locking the doors at its restaurant row location and leaving its North Texas presence centered on a single nearby outpost in Southlake.
Community Impact first spotted the paper sign, which reads, "We thank our loyal guests for their continued support and hope to return to the area in the near future." The brand's own locations page now lists the Watters Creek address as "Closed," according to Brio Italian Grille.
Why More Brio Doors Are Shutting
The chain's parent company has been trimming its footprint after filing for Chapter 11 last year, a restructuring that has sparked a series of sudden closures across the country, according to industry coverage. Restaurant Dive reports the company pointed to inflation, lagging foot traffic at certain shopping centers and stiffening competition as it sought court protection.
Where To Find Brio Nearby
For North Texans who are not ready to give up their pasta and flatbread fix, there is still one option within a reasonable drive. Brio's Southlake restaurant at Plaza Place remains listed as open on the brand's site, with regular hours and reservations available on weekdays and weekends, per Brio Italian Grille.
Watters Creek's Restaurant Shuffle
Watters Creek itself is hardly going dark. The center has been cycling concepts in and out, with a handmade-pasta spot debuting there in December, as previously reported by Hoodline. The outlet's feature, pasta hotspot, highlighted the chef-driven addition to the Allen dining scene.
Given the visibility of Brio's former space on restaurant row, it is likely to catch the eye of both local operators and national brands. For now, though, the only official word is still that printed note hinting at a possible return. We will update this story if Brio or the property manager announces new plans for the site, and readers can keep an eye on Brio Italian Grille for any changes to its list of openings and closures.
