Construction is underway on a new downtown restaurant in Fort Davis, Texas, as celebrated chef Dylan McShan, along with business partners Amber and Baxter Box, move forward with plans to open The Sleeping Lion.
Work is now in progress at 211 State St., a longtime commercial building that was recently listed for sale and has since been taken off the market. The property had been marketed as the future home of The Sleeping Lion before being removed from listings.
McShan, who is based in Marfa, Texas, confirmed in a recent message that he is the chef and owner of the project.
The building sits in the heart of Fort Davis’ downtown district and has housed food and retail businesses for decades. The site includes approximately 0.15 acres and fronts State Street, one of the town’s main corridors.
McShan brings extensive experience to the project, with a background in major culinary markets including Houston and California. He worked in James Beard–recognized kitchens such as Pax Americana and Underbelly in Houston and later helped open Rosie Cannonball. He also spent time at Manresa in California before relocating to West Texas.
Since moving to the region, McShan has operated Easy Wind Catering and developed a reputation for seasonal, hyperlocal cooking through private events, pop-ups and outdoor dining experiences.
Previous profiles have highlighted his focus on working with regional producers and adapting menus to available ingredients.
The Sleeping Lion is expected to reflect that approach, emphasizing seasonal menus, local sourcing and live-fire techniques.
The project adds to growing interest in downtown Fort Davis, which serves both residents and visitors traveling through the Davis Mountains area. A chef-led, full-service restaurant would expand dining options in the community.
No official opening date has been announced. McShan has said he is available to discuss the project and answer questions by phone or email as work continues.
More details are expected as construction progresses.
