A longtime sports bar in Fort Worth is closing after 25 years: Woody's Tavern, which has resided at 4744 Bryant Irvin Rd. #946 in an unassuming center near the intersection of I-20 and 183 since 2001, will observe its final day at that address on February 26.

While no one is coming out and stating that it's a leasing issue, owners Rich Gee and John Hinkle do say they are seeking another location where they can possibly reopen the bar.

"Woody’s has always evolved and changed as times and needs have," the owners said in a statement. "We want — and most parts of town need — fresh-made food, great vibes, and space to stretch out, and a great place to watch sports."

"We have outgrown this space and are excited for the future," they said. "When we have our new spot locked down will definitely let y’all know where to find us. We have always been hard to find and hard to leave … now we will just be easier to find."

The duo opened the tavern to fill a need for a sports bar and hangout spot in southwest Fort Worth. Woody's became known for its better-than-your-average-bar food, which combined subtle Philadelphia touches with a home-cooking flair.

Signatures included house-made meatballs in marinara sauce — available as a side order or piled onto a toasted Amarosa roll, the iconic Italian sub roll from Philadelphia that's an essential ingredient for authentic cheesesteaks and hoagies.

Keeping to the Philly theme, they were also a "Steelers bar" — a destination for fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers during NFL season. But they featured shirts and memorabilia from a variety of teams hanging on the quaint wood-paneled walls, as well as a busy array of decorative items such as a bicycle hanging from the ceiling, TVs of all sizes, a half-dozen pool tables, arcade games, and even a popcorn machine.

The kitchen regularly turned out comforting house-made soups, stews, and chili, topped with grated cheddar and served with Fritos on the side. Prices were more than affordable, with soups for $4.50 and a pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and potato chips for $8.

They also featured regular daily specials such as $3 ground beef tacos on Tuesdays, or mac & cheese for $6, topped with choice of pulled pork or bacon, on Mondays. Wednesdays were chicken salad day, featuring a surprisingly upscale chicken salad with dried apricots, Craisins, and red onion, served with Club crackers, for $6.

Not surprisingly, there were plenty of drink specials, including $3.50 pints of beer and a daily 50-cents-off happy hour until 8 pm.

They endeared themselves to the neighborhood by hosting numerous charitable events and benefits such as bike and toy drives for kids, as well as "bar Olympics" with family-friendly UNO tournaments.

They recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, stating "[we're] working on finding our new location for the next 25!"