When it comes to living in Amarillo, time has a funny way of flying by. It feels like just yesterday we were popping champagne and counting down to the new year, yet here we are, already well past the halfway mark of 2026. Before you know it, the holiday season will be right back on our radar.
The Fast-Paced Evolution of Amarillo’s Food Scene
If there is one thing for certain, it’s that Amarillo changes in the blink of an eye. We see places open, and we see some of our favorites close. It’s the culinary circle of life, and nothing highlights that rotation quite like watching a beloved Amarillo establishment close its doors.
We naturally mourn the loss of a favorite eatery, but almost immediately, curiosity takes over: What’s going to take its place? Nobody likes seeing an empty building sitting vacant for long.
Ownership Transitions: Thai Arawan and Wesley’s BBQ
Amarillo has lost several restaurants so far in 2026. Some restaurants closed for just a short time and got new owners, like Thai Arawan and Wesley’s BBQ.
From Flavors of India to Class 1 BBQ and Beyond
Then there are some that have been here for a while and shut down with not much warning, like Steak Express and Flavors of India. Luckily, the building that housed Flavors of India wasn’t empty long. That circle of life thing took over and Class 1 BBQ moved in.
We lost a food truck in Dillo’s Burger Bus, but I have seen Tyler bring it back a bit at an event, hinting at the fact that they may make a comeback. We love to see stories like that…