The original Dodie’s is now Charlie’s Creole Kitchen. (Photo by Emily Charrier)
Let’s be clear about one thing: the original Dodie’s on Greenville did not close. A legal dispute forced the business to find a new name in Charlie’s Creole Kitchen, but that’s where the changes end; the menu, the staff and the 27-year history are exactly the same.
Charlie McGuiness opened the original Dodie’s way back when on Lower Greenville. Years later, he helped his son, Chris, open the second Dodie’s location some 10 blocks away on the same avenue. But when Chris’ operation went bankrupt, he sold the trademarked Dodie’s name to new owner Reef Entertainment, according to CBS DFW. Reef turned around and sued the original Dodie’s and won, forcing the business to find a new name.
Woodrow grad Abel Gonzales opened Republic Ranch on Ross Avenue.
Champion State Fair fried food chef Abel Gonzales, a Woodrow Wilson grad, has opened a party place with a Mexican twist on the edge of our neighborhood. Situated at 3121 Ross Ave., Republic Ranch is part restaurant, part bar and part entertainment venue complete with a pool and gaming arena. Describing itself as a “Mexican crossover of Tex-Mex and Tex-Tex,” you can expect to find dishes like brisket nachos and pulled pork tacos.
In addition to undoubtedly decadent foods, Republic Ranch will have multiple bars and patios, a corn hole area, arcade, pool tables and picnic areas. The pool is not for swimming, but it does add a tropical touch to the decor.
Gonzales, it must be noted, is a five-time Big Tex Choice Award winning chef who has earned the moniker “Fried Jesus.” He earns credit for inventing both fried butter and friend Coca-Cola, and as a Woodrow Hall of Fame graduate.
