After 15 years of service, the historic Dallas gastropub, Meddlesome Moth, has closed its doors due to rising rent prices. Owner Shannon Wynne expressed his sorrow, noting the restaurant's role in developing the Design District. Wynne designed the space meticulously, incorporating unique features such as stained-glass windows from the Hard Rock Cafe and Texas-themed art.

Meddlesome Moth was the first restaurant in Dallas' Design District, which Wynne believed would thrive despite initial doubts about the area's safety. However, increased rent made it financially unsustainable to continue operations without raising prices by 20%.

Meddlesome Moth joins a growing list of restaurant closures in Dallas, including Fernando's Tex-Mex and Trompo, which also faced rent increases. Restaurant real estate expert Andy Anderson notes that Dallas' competitive restaurant market is driving up rental rates, squeezing out longtime operators in favor of those with more financial backing. Anderson advises restaurant owners to secure long-term leases to mitigate the impact of rising rental costs.

Chef Chad Kelly, who started his career at Meddlesome Moth, returned to bid farewell, reflecting on the restaurant's significance. Wynne, who still manages other restaurants in North Texas, acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the closure. He remains hopeful that new occupants will make their mark on the space.