The Lunch Box was originally opened in 1974 by Paula and Al Kilgore.  The original name was Paula’s Tea Room, and Paula was well known in Fort Worth for her famous chicken salad, pimento cheese and poppyseed dressing recipes among locals in the Camp Bowie area.

In 1978, Paula’s Tea Room was sold to Marless Deminico. She re-named it The Lunch Box. Marless continued to build the rich history and traditions of The Lunch Box over the next three years as the surrounding area continued to develop.

In July of 1982, Fort Worth locals Chris and Vicki Stellar purchased The Lunch Box hoping to provide great lunches to the Fort Worth community as they entered their professional careers.  The Stellars oversaw the expansion of the restaurant’s Camp Bowie home from 1,600 to 2,500 square feet by adding the “upstairs” dining room.  The Stellars two children, Adam and Kyle, were mainstays at The Lunch Box throughout the 1980’s and 90’s, helping customers, bussing tables and eating their fair share of chicken salad as they grew up.  Ms. Bobbie Stellar also greatly contributed to the operations, growth and success of the restaurant, always available to keep things on track and lend a helping hand with a smile.

The Stellars continued to expand The Lunch Box’s presence in Fort Worth as a favorite lunch destination and catering delivery service throughout the 2000’s as the 6333 Camp Bowie shopping center literally transformed around the long standing location.  During this time, Vicki returned to focus on her passion of teaching at Arlington Heights High School.

In July of 2012, the Stellars celebrated thirty years of owning The Lunch Box and elected to sell the business to the Khan family, a local Fort Worth family with four children who grew up as devoted customers of The Lunch Box and friends and fans of the Stellars.

In July of 2014, The Lunch Box underwent its first major remodel in over 30 years.  The seating area retained its famous green and yellow look, but in a refreshed and modern design.