Fort Worth is losing some great ramen: Kintaro Ramen, the ramen shop on West Seventh Street from chef Jesus Garcia, will close for good on September 9.

News of the closure was posted on Facebook, with an expression of gratitude to customers.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of Kintaro Ramen West 7th, effective September 9th, 2024," the post said. "We want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has dined with us and supported us over the past four years. Your patronage has been the cornerstone of our success, and we truly appreciate each and every one of you."

The Fort Worth location was a spinoff of the original Kintaro that Garcia and partner Han Le opened in downtown Arlington in 2019. That location remains open.

"The Arlington location is still going strong, and will be our sole focus," Garcia says.

Garcia was the original owner of the Oni Ramen restaurants in Fort Worth and Dallas, which he debuted after making a name for himself as executive chef at Little Lilly Sushi and prior to that, at Sushi Yoko.

He initially opened the Fort Worth Kintaro as a ghost kitchen, doing delivery and take-out, before relocating the concept into the former Oni Ramen space at 2801 W. 7th St. (They also had a location in Farmers Branch which closed in 2022.)

The restaurant was acclaimed for its selection of broths, including miso, tonkotsu (pork), chintan (chicken), curry, and creamy cabbage broth; plus favorites like dumplings and steamed buns.

Garcia says business at the location "did okay" although they only really had one truly profitable year in 2018.

Simultaneously, they've been dealing with aging AC units that need to be replaced. Garcia's partners struck a deal with the landlord that required shutting down the location for an extended renovation. Garcia says he felt it was best to place his focus on Arlington for now.

Meanwhile, the closing note asked for job leads for their staff.

"As we approach our final days, we want to also address an important matter," it said. "Several of our dedicated employees will be seeking new opportunities. If you know of any openings at your restaurant or within your network, please reach out to us for a contact list of our talented team members. Your support in helping them find new positions would be greatly appreciated."