The Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, City of Irving and the Irving Heritage Society welcomed the new operators of Big State Fountain Grill, Rick Fairless and his wife, Susan, to the Heritage House on June 1 for Irving Heritage Society’s Annual Meeting. While at the meeting, attendees heard the Fairless’vision for the Irving icon.
At the meeting, the couple announced their upcoming plans to remodel and reopen Big State. Plans include keeping the historic and iconic soda fountain, grill, several menu items and longtime staff members of Big State Drug Store, Leland Hallett and Sheryl Taylor.
Fairless emphasized Big State will be a ’50s-themed, family restaurant that will showcase Irving’s history. The Fairless’ also plan to incorporate a gift shop and jukebox with 1950s music.
“Big State has been a cornerstone of Irving since 1948, and it is wonderful to have a sixth-generation Irvingite continue the spirit of Big State for future generations,” said Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce Director of Business and Visitor Services Don Williams. “This will become a catalytic project for the redevelopment of Heritage Crossing.”
The Fairless’ plan to have Big State remodeled and reopened this fall.
