Update: Dallas Steakhouse Legend Al Biernat Dies at 69, Memorial Open to Public

Al Biernat has passed away. A celebration of his life on Monday, Dec. 2, will be open to the public.

November 20, 2024

Image: Al Biernat in a very usual spot, working the host stand at his steakhouse.

Al Biernat in a very usual spot, working the host stand at his steakhouse. Al Biernat's

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Update: A service for Al Biernat is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 2, at 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church (1707 San Jacinto St.). The service is open to the public, and valet will be provided. Biernat's family is also collecting messages, stories and photos from friends and customers. Email [email protected] or write to 4217 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas, TX 75219, c/o Al Biernat's Personal.

click to enlarge

A family favorite photo of Al Biernat on a bar in a ski suit.

Jonathan Zizzo

On Wednesday, The Dallas Morning News reported that Dallas restauranteur Al Biernat, 69, has died after a battle with Bulbar-onset, a rare form of ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease. Biernat was diagnosed with the disease in early 2024.

Biernat was a leader and legend of hospitality in Dallas. He started his career in the restaurant industry waiting tables, then worked at The Palm in Houston before becoming the general manager at The Palm in Dallas in 1984.

He and his wife, Jeannie, opened his namesake restaurant in 1998 on Oak Lawn Avenue. Lauded in the high-profile dining scene of Dallas, it's a restaurant to see and be seen in. In 2023, after the Texas Rangers won the World Series, they celebrated at Al Biernat's. A long list of celebrities have dined there, including Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz and Alex Rodriguez. The steaks and wine list were both meticulously curated, and the seafood was flown in from around the world.

In September of this year, Biernat, who was very open about his illness, posted on Facebook about his "cruel disease that is affecting more people every year. Sure, I want a miracle for myself, but I want that for everyone who is struggling with this disease."

On Sept. 22, Biernat signed off, writing, "I no longer have the strength or dexterity in my hands to post or respond. You all have been more than supportive. I appreciate your friendship and prayers."

Sarah Blaskovich at The Dallas Morning News has a full tribute to Biernat, which is certainly worth the read.

Culture Map reports that both the Oak Lawn restaurant and the North Dallas restaurant on Spring Valley Road will remain open.

Lauren Drewes Daniels is the food editor of the Dallas Observer. She started working as a freelance writer in 2013 and became editor in 2021. She covers Dallas' evolving dining scene, the many openings and closings as well as trends and breaking news. She oversees annual lists including Top 100 Bars and Top 100 Restaurants and contributes to the Best of Dallas. If you have a tip about an amazing pastry, pie or taco, let her know.

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