Fine dining to debut at revitalized 1930s Fort Worth Public Market in spring

A much-anticipated redevelopment of downtown Fort Worth’s historic landmark market is now open.

Wilks Development executives officially opened senior active living community The Harden at Public Market Sept. 18. The first move-ins are expected in October. 

Wilks built a 223,704-square-foot addition onto the ’30s-era farmers market building with one- and two-bedroom apartments that range from $1,546 to more than $3,000 per month.

The reimagined 15,365-square-foot historic market space will include a cafe, cocktail bar and fine-dining restaurant, all to be run by Fort Worth chefs Jenna and Micah Kinard. Those are expected to open in the spring. The space also includes 4,500 square feet for a leasing office and fitness center.

“We may phase them in, but it looks like they’re on schedule to finish within a couple of weeks of each other,” Wilks Development spokesperson Nicole Ellis said of the food and beverage concepts.

Kyle Wilks, one of the company’s principals, said he expects those to become a destination spot.

“1,000%,” he said.

Chefs Jenna and Micah Kinard at the Fort Worth Public Market during construction and restoration of the space. (Courtesy photo | Wilks Development)

Jenna Kinard is planning a “refined Texas flair” concept she is calling Madrone. It will feature upscale dining with chef’s tasting menus and private dining, with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. She is the former executive chef at Max’s Wine Dive, the Hotel Drover’s 97 West and Jellico’s at the Westin Southlake. 

Willow will serve as a cocktail bar and lounge offering elevated craft beverages, a VIP experience and a premium liquor locker program.

The Kinards’ Public Market Cafe & Goods will be a community-driven space featuring freshly baked treats, coffee and locally made products, according to Wilks.

The Kinards plan to grow hydroponic produce on-site, including microgreens, herbs and tomatoes. They also will curate goods from regional farmers and makers.

“This city has shaped me personally and professionally — and now, alongside my husband, Micah, it continues to shape how we dream and create together,” Jenna Kinard said in a news release. “We see this not just as a culinary venture but as a calling — to bring people together through exceptional food, drinks and hospitality while honoring the legacy of Fort Worth’s Public Market.”

Wilks had talked to Jenna Kinard about a development in Parker County, Ellis said. But she landed at the downtown development, 1400 Henderson St., because of her interest in Fort Worth.

“Jenna’s very passionate about Fort Worth and the history of the building, and really wants to honor it,” Ellis said.

Oklahoman John Harden opened the building in 1930 as a farmers market that included spaces for retailers and other vendors. It closed in 1941 and has been vacant since 2002. Wilks bought it in 2015.

The property’s apartments start at 723 square feet and $1,546 per month in rent for a one-bedroom, one-bath floor plan. They go up to a two-bedroom, two-bath floor plan and 1,473 square feet for more than $3,000 per month. The property has 164 one-bedroom apartments and 35 two-bedroom ones.

In June 2023, Wilks estimated restoration costs at $54 million and said the firm had applied for state and federal tax credits that would refund up to 45% of eligible expenses.