17 Incredible Restaurants in Dallas, TX
Embark on a culinary journey through Dallas - a city where food is not merely a necessity but a celebration.
This is a city where age-old family recipes mingle with innovative culinary concoctions.
A city where the diversity of cultures and cuisines is as vast as the Texas horizon.
The opportunity to sample an impressive spectrum of flavors and styles is abundant within the city limits.
From tantalizing Tex-Mex and savory barbecues to exotic international cuisine and farm-to-table freshness, Dallas offers an appetite for discovery.
The culinary landscape in Dallas is as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.
A thrilling gastronomical adventure awaits, ready to be savored.
This isn't about chasing the latest food trend or finding the most Instagrammable dishes.
It's about unearthing the true flavors of Dallas and celebrating the restaurants that make the city shine brighter.
So, prepare for a delicious journey to discover incredible restaurants in Dallas, Texas.
Maguire's Bistro & Bar
It's a Saturday night, and the city is coming to life, the perfect time to duck into my favorite hidden gem, Maguire's Bistro & Bar.
They have mastered the art of customer service, making you feel welcome, and always have spectacular menu and beverage suggestions.
I recall one night, meeting a group of my friends here.
We had orchestrated a night to celebrate our friendship, and Maguire's Bistro & Bar was our chosen venue.
The rooftop patio is a delightful spot – the ambiance, complemented by the twinkling city lights and the friendly chatter, makes it a perfect place to unwind.
The food here is simply divine.
Their Maguire’s salad is a fan favorite and a staple in my orders.
The fresh crunch of the greens, coupled with the perfect balance of dressing, makes it a must-have.
The restaurant has simplified its menu since its old days, but the quality and taste have remained consistent.
The smoked salmon appetizer is another dish that never disappoints, with its delightful smokiness and melt-in-the-mouth texture.
However, the star of the show is their tuna.
Fresh, well-cooked, and perfectly seasoned, it's a seafood lover's dream, although I do wish they were a bit more generous with the serving size.
Roodie's
Let me tell you about one of my favorite little watering holes tucked away in the heart of Dallas.
It's known as Roodie’s at Craft & Growler.
This spot has quickly become my go-to for spectacular food and craft beer.
I first discovered Roodie's at the Dallas Farmers Market and was instantly amazed by their tacos and hotdogs.
Yet, it was their brisket tacos, adorned with a green sauce that tasted like it's from another world, that truly stole my heart.
Every bite is a delightful surprise that transports your taste buds on a joyous journey.
And if you're lucky enough to go on a day when they serve their fries, you're in for a treat!
The craft beers are another delight you shouldn't miss.
They offer a range of brews that complement their menu perfectly, making each dining experience a harmonious blend of flavors.
Don Chabe Steak
It's not every day you stumble upon a place as enchanting as Don Chabe Steak.
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Dallas, this unassuming steakhouse has quickly become my go-to spot for those lazy afternoons when the craving for a hearty steak dinner is simply too potent to be ignored.
From the moment I stepped foot in this steakhouse, I knew I'd discovered something special.
The aroma of perfectly seasoned steaks wafting through the air was enough to make my stomach growl in anticipation.
And let me tell you, the food didn't disappoint.
Every bite of the succulent steak, perfectly cooked and seasoned, was a burst of flavor in my mouth, a culinary experience I never knew I needed.
Aside from the main course, the white rice, mashed potatoes, and fries were delectable in their own right.
I found it impressive how even the side dishes at Don Chabe Steak were not lacking in flavor.
And the chips!
Freshly made and served with salsa and queso that were nothing short of excellent.
I remember reaching for seconds, thirds, and then some.
But it wasn't just the food that won me over.
At Don Chabe Steak, the service is as warm and inviting as a hug from an old friend.
Presumably run by a mother-son duo, the restaurant exudes a homely charm that's hard to find these days.
It added a unique personal touch to my dining experience, making me feel like a part of the family.
Locura Small Bites
You know that feeling of stumbling upon a hidden gem right in your own backyard?
That's exactly what I felt when I first tried Locura Small Bites.
It was a typical weekend, and I was in the mood for something different, something beyond the usual burger and fries.
So, I decided to give Locura Small Bites a chance.
And boy, was I in for a treat!
Located in The Shindig Park, this place is a casual dining spot that has quickly become one of my favorite culinary escapes right here in Dallas.
Their menu is quite diverse, but what got my attention was their unique blend of Mexican and Asian-inspired dishes.
I couldn't resist trying their famous elotes and I must say, it was a delightful surprise!
The corn was perfectly grilled, tender yet smoky, and the blend of spices just hit the spot.
The best part was their honey butter chili sauce that added a punch of flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the corn.
Next up was their Pork Belly.
It was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the flavorful marinade ensured every bite was an explosion of flavors.
The portion was generous, leaving me delightfully satisfied.
Without a doubt, Locura Small Bites offers a gastronomic adventure that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
Gorji Restaurant
Have you ever walked into a place and felt instantly at home?
That's the feeling I found when I stepped into Gorji Restaurant.
Nestled in our city, Gorji’s is the embodiment of a perfect evening.
The warm, inviting ambiance, the inviting aromas wafting from the kitchen, and the gentle clinking of glasses are a symphony of sensory delights.
The classy yet cozy interior is a stage for the real star of the show – the food.
You know the feeling when you take a bite of something, and for a moment, all you can think is, "This is it. This is the best thing I've ever tasted." That's Gorji’s for me.
Every dish I've tried has been an elevated version of Mediterranean cuisine, each bite bursting with flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
Did I mention the desserts?
They’re like little pieces of heaven that melt in your mouth, leaving a trail of happy sighs.
The wine list at Gorji’s is impeccably curated, each bottle promising to be a delightful companion to your meal.
But what sets Gorji’s apart even more is the service.
They have a knack for making every occasion feel special, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just having a quiet dinner.
I could go on and on about Gorji’s.
But trust me, you need to experience it to truly understand what I’m talking about.
So next time you're planning a special evening or just want to treat yourself to a remarkable culinary experience, remember Gorji’s.
It's our little gem in the city that never fails to impress.
Ginzaro Sushi
Every now and then, I get hit by an intense craving for sushi.
And when that happens, I know there’s only one place in Dallas that can satisfy my palate – Ginzaro Sushi.
With their classic rolls, sashimi, and poke bowls, Ginzaro Sushi has become my quick go-to spot for delicious and affordable Japanese seafood.
What makes Ginzaro Sushi stand out is their commitment to delivering fresh fish.
It feels like every bite you take is a journey to the shores of Japan.
You can taste the quality in every piece of sushi and sashimi they serve.
The first time I ordered their rolls, I was blown away.
The fish was so fresh that I felt like it was a mistake to put such high-quality fish into a roll!
Every visit to Ginzaro Sushi also comes with a side of excellent customer service.
Another surprise from Ginzaro Sushi was their monkey brains – an adventurous dish that was surprisingly delightful.
The taste was incredible and left me eager to return and continue exploring their menu.
But a visit to Ginzaro Sushi wouldn’t be complete without mentioning their sushi rice and miso.
It’s remarkable to find a place that knows the importance of these two often-overlooked elements of sushi.
Quarter Acre
I still remember the first time I stepped foot into Quarter Acre, a delightful spot nestled in the heart of lower Greenville.
My taste buds were instantly tantalized by the unique blend of southern hospitality and New Zealand inspired dishes.
Intriguing, isn't it?
As I perused through the menu, I had expected a typical health-conscious restaurant that might compromise on taste.
Much to my delight, it was far from it.
Each dish had its own distinct flavor profile, leaving me with a sense of delightful curiosity.
The mashed potatoes, let me tell you, are simply amazing.
The ambiance is intimate and inviting - the perfect place for a friendly gathering or a romantic date night.
I still can't get over the crispy pork belly, small in size but packed with flavor, served with an avocado whip that gave it an interesting twist.
The grilled octopus was simply delicious and left me wanting more.
The beef short rib was an explosion of flavors.
The eggplant - not so much my cup of tea, but if you love eggplant, it could become your favorite.
This unique spot also boasts a great wine selection.
However, on my next visit, I am keen on trying their signature cocktails.
And did I mention the outstanding service?
It's Michelin quality, contributing to an overall superb dining experience.
The atmosphere is comfortably soothing and significantly less noisy than many other places.
Their ingenious pairing of flavors is what impressed me the most.
Like how they serve the lamb with a few grilled pickles or the rich, beefy-flavored short rib served medium.
The fried quail was an unusual treat, served with a PB&J side that was a surprisingly good mix.
'Not a pavlova' dessert was a winner - a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
But remember, if you want one of their signature bone-in ribeye steaks, be sure to reserve it ahead as it's pretty popular among patrons.
And I must say, it's definitely worth sharing.
Quarter Acre has left an unforgettable imprint on my gastronomical journey.
From the moment I walked into the time I walked out, it has been nothing short of a delightful dining experience.
And as a local, I can't wait to go back.
Kanny's Restaurant and Lounge
Every city has its hidden gems, and here in Dallas, one of those gems is Kanny's Restaurant and Lounge.
Nestled in the heart of the city, it's become my go-to spot for an impromptu dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch.
You could say that I stumbled upon this place by accident, but now it feels like destiny.
The first time I walked through the doors of this establishment, I was met with an array of fragrant aromas and a warmth that felt like a home away from home.
From the moment you sit down, you'll notice the incredible attention to detail.
The menu is filled with delicious options that cater to every palate.
I remember my first meal - their signature abula - like it was yesterday.
It was a culinary experience that I can only describe as a burst of flavors, unlike anything I had tasted before.
During one of my visits, I was pleasantly surprised with two complimentary shots of tequila.
The food arrives promptly every single time.
No matter how packed the restaurant gets, the service is always top-notch.
Every time I leave, I find myself eagerly looking forward to my next visit.
Mixtitos Kitchen
Don't ask me why it took me so long to discover Mixtitos Kitchen, a culinary hotspot in Dallas, because honestly, I have no good answer.
But boy, am I glad I did!
The moment you walk in, it's like you've been teleported to a foodie's paradise.
The atmosphere is both relaxing and intriguing without being overwhelming.
It's the kind of place that feels intimate, even when every table is occupied.
But let's talk about the food - the real star of the show.
I've had sushi, fajita tacos, and salmon.
Each dish, better than the last, was an absolute delight.
One standout was the fish and shrimp soup, paired with toasted and buttered bread - a match made in heaven.
Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked.
And don't even get me started on the fries.
Believe me when I tell you they're the best in town.
The drinks are just as captivating.
They create specialty drinks that are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.
And here's a bonus: you get chips, green salsa, orange salsa, and queso as soon as you sit down.
Yes, you read that right!
What sets Mixtitos Kitchen apart from other restaurants, though, is the hospitality.
It's above and beyond.
And did I mention its late closing hours on Mondays?
It's like a weekend retreat for those of us in the food industry.
Plus, they have live music and mixologists on weekends.
Sounds like the perfect spot for a night out, right?
Now, the next time you're in Dallas and craving a culinary adventure, you know where to go.
Trust me, Mixtitos Kitchen is not a place you want to miss.
And don't forget to thank me later!
Written by the Seasons
Living in the heart of the city, I've come across countless restaurants and eateries, but none quite like Written by the Seasons.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm no food critic, but I know a fantastic dining place when I see one, and this restaurant is undoubtedly one of them.
The first time I stepped into Written by the Seasons, I was taken aback by the inviting atmosphere.
It's a quaint little place, charming in its simplicity and elegance.
One visit and you're part of the family, that's the kind of vibe this place has.
Everyone's been raving about the smoked pecans, and let me tell you, they lived up to the hype.
They're this delightful little surprise that kicks off your meal just right.
And the scallops?
Absolute perfection!
You know a restaurant is top-tier when they've mastered this delicate seafood dish.
Now, I have to mention the summer menu.
It's an explosion of flavors, each dish carefully crafted to complement the season.
The salads, with their unique fruit pairings, were a fresh twist that had me going back for more.
And the best part?
They've got a plethora of options for my gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian friends.
I appreciate a place that caters to all dietary preferences so thoughtfully.
One Friday night, luck was on my side, and I managed to grab a seat at the bar.
The cod fritters, tuna crudo, seafood stew, and, to top it all off, the cheesecake for dessert were nothing short of culinary masterpieces.
The service was top-notch, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.
EighteenOOne Restaurant
Whenever my stomach craves an epicurean adventure, I find myself drawn to EighteenOOne Restaurant.
The food here never disappoints - it's always a rendezvous of fresh, delicious flavors.
Their Cobb salad is a masterpiece, with grilled chicken that's so tender and juicy it practically melts in your mouth.
The fish-shaped pizza and Mac-n-Cheese are also a treat for the taste buds and shouldn't be missed.
A consistent patron since 2017, I've watched as the restaurant has strived to enhance their menu, ensuring a balance between quality and affordability.
It's not your typical fine dining establishment.
The premise is simple: to offer an enticing culinary journey for patrons of the Aquarium without the intimidating prices.
And I must admit, they've succeeded.
The food quality and presentation are commendable, giving a high-end dining feel without burning a hole in your pocket.
Moreover, it's heartening to see how EighteenOOne has been conscious about dietary preferences.
Their recent menu upgrade features a few gluten-free options.
While the options might seem limited, the four main entrées are a decent start for a small menu.
Plus, the ice cream dessert is gluten-free - which is a win in my books!
The prices might have seen a slight hike over the years, but it's a minor compromise for the quality you receive.
I mean, who wouldn't love to dine in a restaurant located in an aquarium museum, offering a culinary tour of various countries at fair prices?
It's a win-win from every angle.
Brass Ram
There's a certain thrill when you walk through the doors of the Brass Ram.
It's like stepping into a classic steakhouse from a bygone era, where the ambiance is as important as the meal itself.
Picture this: dark, polished wood, a long welcoming bar, and the sound of clinking glasses wrapped in the murmur of conversation.
Now, add to this picture an impeccable service and a menu that's simply divine.
That's your quintessential night at the Brass Ram.
And speaking of the menu, oh, what a delight.
The prime rib at the Brass Ram, for instance, is nothing short of a masterpiece.
I've tasted prime ribs at various places around the city, but this...this is different.
It's tender, juicy, and seasoned just right.
The flavor just melts into your mouth, making you savor each bite.
One of the surprising delights at the Brass Ram is their Yorkshire pudding.
I’ve never been a fan of Yorkshire pudding, but one bite of theirs and I was hooked.
It's fluffy, light, and the perfect accompaniment to the prime rib.
Here, even the smallest details are perfected to a T.
Did I mention the drinks?
The Brass Ram's bar is a sight to behold.
It's long and inviting, with a superb line-up of cocktails and a massive whisky list.
Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or a cocktail lover, this place is sure to impress.
The prices might be on the higher side, yet the overall experience at the Brass Ram makes it worth every penny.
Whether you're planning a special dinner or just a night out in Dallas, the Brass Ram should be on your list.
AT Bistro | Au Troisiéme
Let me take you on a little culinary journey right here in our beloved city.
Have you ever had the chance to dine at AT Bistro | Au Troisiéme?
It's a rare gem, a place where I find myself returning to again and again.
The moment you walk in, you are enveloped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere that speaks volumes about its phenomenal service.
It's not just about the service, though.
The food is to die for!
I've found myself, on more than one occasion, savoring the unique gastronomic marvels on offer.
My most recent outing involved sampling the Smash Burger, BLFGT, and the AT Caesar w/Fish - each one was a mind-blowing 9-10/10.
It felt like a culinary adventure as I explored the menu with great delight.
Of course, a visit to AT Bistro would never be complete without their mouth-watering Bang Bang Shrimp Appetizer.
It's a must-try!
I often find myself visiting the bistro just for that particular delicacy.
And have I mentioned the prices?
You'd be hard-pressed to find a place with such high-quality food and service that is as reasonably priced as this one.
Add to that the delightful patio atmosphere, and you've got yourself a little sanctuary in the heart of Dallas.
Salum Restaurant
There's nothing quite like a night out at Salum Restaurant, where you can kick back, relax, and take a culinary journey with his seasonal New American eats.
Each visit is a new experience, with the menu changing regularly to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients.
The food here?
Simply divine.
On my last visit, I decided to indulge in the halibut with risotto, a decision I certainly didn’t regret!
The fish was cooked to perfection, and the risotto was comforting and creamy.
Perhaps the biggest surprise of the night was the San Dimas mezcal.
It was my first time trying it, and it was a taste revelation.
My family visiting from New York City were just as impressed when I took them for a late lunch.
They couldn’t stop raving about the atmosphere, the service, and, of course, the food.
It's not every day that you get to see the kitchen in action while dining, making the experience at Salum truly unique.
If you’re looking for a phenomenal appetizer, the goat cheese dish is a must-try.
It's a mouthwatering sensation that sets the stage for the main course.
For meat lovers, the lamb served on a bed of mushroom bread pudding and an epic gravy will leave you speechless.
And the desserts, oh the desserts!
The apple crisp and crème brûlée are the perfect sweet endings to a delectable meal.
McRae's American Bistro & Cocktails
Have you ever walked into a place and felt an instant connection?
That's exactly how I felt when I first walked into McRae's American Bistro & Cocktails nestled in the heart of East Dallas.
It's got this old-world charm and warmth that instantly makes you feel like you've been teleported to another era.
Their menu is a testament to the richness of American cuisine and the drinks - oh, the drinks!
They are the perfect blend of sophistication and taste.
If you're a meat lover, their pork chop is something you wouldn't want to miss.
As for me, being a seafood enthusiast, their Atlantic salmon is my personal favorite.
But it's not just the food and the drinks that make me love this place.
It's the ambiance, the vibe - there's a certain coziness to it that I find extremely appealing.
It's like this beautiful blend of nostalgia and modernity.
And, despite the place being relatively new - they've just been open for a week or so when we visited - they've managed to give it an aura of a place that's been there for years.
The service was attentive, and it's a place to enjoy a great meal, a well-crafted cocktail, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Parterre
The first time I set foot in Parterre, it was as if I had been transported straight into the heart of New York City.
The ambiance, the vibe, and the whole atmosphere were just so vibrant and thrilling!
It's infectious, it pulls you in.
And the food?
Oh, the food is something else entirely!
I remember indulging in the spicy chicken and waffles, and let me tell you, it was absolutely divine.
Paired with a side of crispy fries and a beautifully designed vanilla latte, it was a meal that still lingers in my memory.
Each bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my tongue, making me crave more.
But Parterre is not just about the food.
It's about the experience.
I once attended a 40th birthday party there, and wow, was it unforgettable!
The drinks flowed freely, and a special charcuterie spread, a masterpiece crafted by the resident chef, was the highlight of the night.
And let's not forget the shrimp tacos and the kale side salad.
This pairing was just the right amount of spicy, the shrimp succulent and tender, the salad a refreshing balance full of crunch.
Each visit to Parterre is a new culinary exploration, and I'm always excited to see what they have in store.
Shivas Bar and Grill
Just when I thought I knew all the culinary delights my city had to offer, I discovered a gem tucked away in a charming corner of Dallas - Shivas Bar and Grill.
It was a typical Tuesday night. I was looking for something different to break the monotony of my usual dinner routine, and boy, did I hit the jackpot!
As I stepped into Shivas Bar and Grill, the warm, inviting atmosphere instantly won me over.
The stunning decor was the perfect backdrop to the symphony of aromas that engulfed me.
You can't help but be mesmerized by the exotic mix of spices that hang in the air.
The menu, a comprehensive list of Northern and Southern Indian delicacies, had something for everyone.
As a vegetarian, I was thrilled to find so many options.
I settled for the Paneer Tikka Masala and Garlic Naan.
The food was cooked to perfection, each bite exploding with delightful flavors.
What sets Shivas apart are the little things.
Attentive, friendly, and genuinely committed to providing an unforgettable dining experience.
On a separate occasion, I decided to try their seafood.
I remember being drawn in by the delectable smell of the Lobster and Shrimp in Coriander, Cumin Curry Cream Sauce as I walked down the street.
What followed was a culinary experience I won't soon forget.
The seafood was cooked to perfection, the flavors of the sauce blending perfectly with the lobster and shrimp.
When in Dallas, make sure to indulge in the authentic flavors of India at Shivas Bar and Grill.
Final Thoughts
After experiencing the vibrant culinary scene in Dallas, Texas, I can wholeheartedly attest that the city's gastronomy is an absolute delight.
Every restaurant on this list has left a lasting impression on me, and I can't wait to see what new culinary delights the city will offer next.
Whether you're a Dallas local or just visiting, you're sure to find a dish (or several) to fall in love with in this wonderful city.
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