A Yard House is set to take over the former TGI Fridays site at 5217 S Padre Island Dr in Corpus Christi. According to a state filing from June 26, 2025, the existing building will be torn down. In its place, a new 9,672-square-foot restaurant will rise by July 2026.
Yard House is a national chain known for its huge beer selection and upscale sports-bar atmosphere. The new restaurant will cost an estimated $5 million and is scheduled to begin construction on October 6.
The Site Has Seen Major Changes Over Time
This stretch of S Padre Island Dr wasn’t always packed with businesses. In 1956, aerial images show the area was still farmland. The commercial boom came later, and by the early 2000s, the TGI Fridays building had taken shape.
The restaurant operated for years before closing sometime after early 2022. That year’s Google Street View still shows TGI Fridays signage and branding. The building has remained intact ever since, though it will soon be demolished.
Yard House Enters a Busy Retail Hub
The upcoming Yard House joins a high-traffic corridor that includes Olive Garden, Ojos Locos, La Palmera mall, and PetSmart. The site also neighbors stores like James Avery and AT&T.
The brand is entering a competitive market, but the location is strong. Easy access from SH-358 and proximity to established retailers gives Yard House a solid starting point.
Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by F.E.M