- Teresa Gubbins, Culture Map

An iconic Dallas restaurant institution is about to decamp: The Stoneleigh P, also known as The P, which has brought an eclectic restaurant and bar experience to Uptown Dallas since 1973, is closing down its original location at 2926 Maple Ave.

According to a release, the lease is up and the restaurant will relocate in 2024 to a new address, still TBD.

Though they may not be in the same location, the owners vow that The P will prevail, with the same food, drinks, and sense of community as the original.

Founded by Tom Garrison, Robert Alexander, Teresa Alexander, Alan Cahil, and Richard Windburn, The P has remained in the same location with the same family ownership.

 

Originally a pharmacy called the Stoneleigh Pharmacy, Garrison turned the place into a restaurant and bar, coining it the iconic nickname, “The P.”

The P was originally a safe haven for the “anti-establishment” crowd of Dallas, catering to musicians and creatives. However, over the years, the P has welcomed an array of Dallas locals, visitors, and legends.

Celebrities!
Throughout the years, the Dallas staple has been frequented by many notable figures including President Jimmy Carter who hosted a fundraiser for his presidential campaign, Stanley Marcus of Neiman Marcus who loved the lentil soup, and Kenny Loggins who hosted his 40th birthday party.

Although Dallas has evolved immensely since the restaurant’s initial opening, the Stoneleigh P has stayed true to its core values. With a family-like staff, two of the general managers have held their positions for 38 years each.

Legendary events include underwear modeling competitions, danceathons, parties with irrelevant themes, and a Mariah Carey-inspired Drag Show.

In 1980, The P endured a fire that burned it down, but it was rebuilt in the same location.

In 2017, Tom’s daughter, Laura Garrison, took over as general manager. Following in her father’s footsteps, Laura hopes to live up to his legacy and further grow their restaurant.

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