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At Last, Candlelite Inn Reopens Today!

Hi! I’m Keela McGraw, Arlington Texas Today co-founder and Realtor. I’d love to help you find your next home. Click here to search current homes for sale in the area.

It has been 999 days since the last meal was served here.

And you’ve been on edge awaiting its re-emergence.

Can’t blame you. It always seemed like the perfect place. Atmosphere. Food. Drinks. Memories.

The best guacamole ever.

The wait is officially over. Make your way to 1202 E. Division St, where everyone’s favorite Candlelite Inn swings its doors open again today at 11 a.m.

The menu is the same — an eclectic mix of Tex-Mex, steaks and Italian fare. There is nearly twice as much space, including a new bar, banquet area and private dining room. The ambiance will be familiar with its recognizable Christmas lights, private booths with jukeboxes and red checkerboard tablecloths.

You will find a beautiful new mural depicting Arlington’s past and present on a wall.

What makes this story extra special is the Arlington community that has supported Alan Petsche since he acquired the restaurant in 2011. Not only are 5,000 locals on the restaurant’s Facebook page, but another page was created when the original reached its friends limit. It now has over 2,000 members.

Spend one minute on either Facebook page and you’ll notice the passion and fond memories customers have for this place.

40 employees (including several past team members) and former owner Bill Testa (now Candlelight Inn manager) will be serving old faves like Mexican meat salad, italian steak, spaghetti, pizza and more.

As for today’s relaunch, if you’re fortunate enough to snag a table, give the gang a break if kinks are still being ironed out. You can bet your bottom dollar the restaurant will be busy. But whether you get in today, tomorrow, this weekend or next week, expect that excellent vibe (and grub) you’ve come to know and love.

What else is left to say about the restaurant the Keith family started in 1957 (which also was the first to serve pizza in Tarrant County)? Kudos to Alan and his team for helping bring the Candlelight Inn back to life. Cheers to another 50+ years.