“[Phelps] called me and said, ‘Hey, Red, I’m done. You always said you wanted one. If you want it, it’s yours,’” Byboth said.
The business had fallen on hard times, and Phelps was willing to give the restaurant to Byboth. If Byboth had not accepted the offer, Love and War in Texas would have permanently closed after 23 years in business.
“I felt like I was saving it,” Byboth said. “This place has gotten to be a Plano institution, and it’s a noted venue in the state.”
From the beginning, Love and War in Texas focused on its state heritage and its concept for homegrown singers and songwriters.
Texas artists perform on the outdoor stage multiple nights a week; different regions of Texas are represented on the menu; and antler chandeliers and cowhide-covered bar stools all combine to create a Lone Star State ambiance.
The Texas-themed recipes Phelps developed for the menu two decades ago are still featured on the menu today. Byboth said the restaurant’s beef items represent the panhandle; barbecue is for East Texas; seafood is from the Gulf Coast, Mexican food represents South Texas; and wild game is from the Hill Country. Love and War in Texas also carries state spirits, including multiple Shiner beer options and Texas wines. Soon the eatery will offer bourbon from state distilleries.
“We have a plate that has quail and venison sausage,” Byboth said. “[Customers] won’t get that anywhere else.”
Walking the floor and talking to guests is Byboth’s favorite thing about owning the business.
“I really enjoy it when they say the food is fabulous,” he said. “I’ll have a rotten day—trying to find enough money or whatever—and I come in here, and these people are happy and clapping. That’s pretty cool.”
Love and War in Texas
601 E. Plano Parkway, Plano
972-422-6201
www.loveandwarintexas.com
Hours: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.-midnight
