A recent filing shows that Black Bear Diner aims to begin construction on a new location at 3715 S Highway 161 on May 18. According to public records, the project is expected to be completed by December 15, 2026. A representative from Black Bear Diner confirmed to What Now Dallas that the new location will be corporate-owned.
The chain is known for its rustic design that evokes the mountains and forests of Northern California, as well as its comfort food with large portions, homestyle cooking, and an “all-day breakfast” concept.
The 4,800-square-foot location will be situated within one of Grand Prairie’s fastest-growing commercial corridors and will be built inside a newly constructed building.
Black Bear Diner was founded in 1995 by Bruce Dean and Bob Manley. The restaurant originally started with an investment of $40,000 and has since expanded into an over 166-location chain in the US. Since announcing in 2021 on its official franchise portal its plans to expand across Texas through a mix of new-built locations and restaurant alterations, Black Bear Diner has grown its presence. Now, the chain operates 29 Texas locations, including a restaurant in Odessa that opened in March 2026.
In 2023, What Now Dallas covered a previous Black Bear Diner project planned for Grand Prairie at 2204 I-20 Frontage Road that involved renovating an existing space. However, that location ultimately did not move forward.
