Nostalgic Eats: There’s One Black-eyed Pea Left In Texas, But Is It Worth The Trip?

Do you remember "90s Fancy" restaurants? I sure do- it was a different time, when Olive Garden felt like you had to wear your Sunday best and put your napkin on your lap (I still do the latter, just in case my momma walks in).

One of those 90s fancy places was Black-eyed Pea, which, despite its "down home" Southern-style comfort food, still felt like a place where you had better behave- or maybe that was just because I only ever went there with a grandparent.

Black-eyed Pea is a Texas orginal- the first location was opened in Dallas in 1975. That location stayed open for 40 years until it closed along with nearly every other still-standing location in 2016.

The Black-eyed Pea had suffered two bankruptcies and changing consumer tastes. It wasn't quite so "fancy" anymore.

However, a few locations stayed open- a handful in Colorado and the very last Black-eyed Pea in Texas, which is still operating today in Arlington at 4000 Bagpiper Way.

Looking at their website, this Black-eyed Pea still offers the same stick-to-your-ribs food you likely remember from childhood- meatloaf, pot roast, catfish, roasted turkey breast, and even beef liver and onions.

The sides are the same, too- fried corn on the cob, baked squash casserole, and whipped sweet potatoes. The sides were always my favorite- unique yet familiar and delicious.

So, is it worth it to drive to Arlington from your neck of the woods for a taste of the past? I'd think so- like any restaurant with many reviews, there are glowing reviews and disappointed ones- but the restaurant takes the time to answer each one. That's all I need to know- is that they still care about making great down-home food.

I know the next time I'm in Arlington, perhaps for a Ranger's game, I'll drop by this magic time portal- where else will I get to taste being eight years old again? Unless I go to one of the very last Pancho's (also in Arlington)- but why not both?