A popular Canadian beer and dining concept is heading south. CRAFT Restaurant & Beer Market, known for its sprawling tap selection and elevated casual fare, chose Dallas' Preston Center for its first U.S. location.
Founded in Calgary, CRAFT built a reputation across Canada for combining community-focused hospitality with an impressive beverage program. Its Dallas debut will stay true to that formula, with over 100 beers on tap, including local Texas brews, alongside scratch-made dishes and seasonal cocktails.
CRAFT's expansion into the U.S. was made possible through a partnership between founder PJ L’Heureux and Tom Gaglardi, owner of the Dallas Stars and Moxie's Restaurants. Gaglardi’s deep local ties and hospitality experience helped land the concept in Dallas as the starting point for its American rollout.
“CRAFT has always been about bringing people together, and we’re thrilled to share our passion for craft beer, exceptional dining, and community building with our friends in the Texas market,” said L’Heureux in an official statement.
Designing a New Kind of Beer Hall
The new 10,500-square-foot restaurant will blend Canadian design sensibilities with a Texas twist. Designed in partnership with Canadian firm Way of Normal and Dallas-based ID Studio 4, the space will feature warm woods, industrial accents and a dramatic 360-degree bar.
Upstairs, a 5,250-square-foot rooftop patio will include a full bar, games, booth seating and greenery, built with both casual evenings and private events in mind. The restaurant is expected to open in early 2026.
“We’ve always believed that the road to our success is through the connections we build with the communities we are part of. Dallas is a natural fit for CRAFT,” said L’Heureux. “Our large restaurant footprint, commitment to local products, and dedication to community are what Texas is all about. Texas and specifically the Preston area of Dallas, with its booming economy, diverse culture, and love for craft cocktails and beer, is the perfect place for us to begin this exciting new chapter.”
Local Partnerships and Regional Focus
Though this will be the brand’s first U.S. outpost, CRAFT plans to root itself in the Texas community. The restaurant will source ingredients from regional vendors and partner with local breweries to feature beers unique to the area. Sustainability is also a focus, with energy-efficient systems and locally sourced materials incorporated into the design.
What’s Next for CRAFT
Dallas marks the first step in CRAFT’s long-term U.S. growth strategy. While specific locations have not yet been named, the team aims to expand into other major American cities over the next decade.
For now, Preston Center will be the place to watch as CRAFT introduces its blend of beer-forward hospitality and modern design to a new market.
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