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City Guide: Dallas

written by John Philp December 2, 2020

Well, this one hits close to home—quite literally. I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, and am a proud Texan. Some of you might have started following along while I was living in Chicago for six years, or more recently in New York City, but Dallas has always been my baseline. It’s one of my most requested cities for recommendations, and I’ve always felt slightly ridiculous that I never put together a proper guide… until now. So here it is—easily my biggest city guide yet.

Dallas has always been a food and shopping destination, but it’s known for a few other things too. It’s the home of “America’s Team,” the Dallas Cowboys, the backdrop of the iconic TV show Dallas, and the birthplace of everything from 7-Eleven to Neiman Marcus. It’s also home to Highland Park Village, often considered the first shopping center in America, and the larger-than-life State Fair of Texas. And of course, there are the more somber historical moments—like the assassination of John F. Kennedy—that still shape the city’s identity today.

Dallas’ history runs deeper than most people realize. What started as a modest trading post in the 19th century quickly grew into a major hub thanks to railroads, oil, and banking. By the mid-20th century, Dallas had established itself as a powerhouse of commerce in the South, blending old Texas grit with a forward-looking, business-first mentality. That mix of industry and ambition is still very much present—you feel it in the skyline, the neighborhoods, and the constant sense that the city is evolving in real time.

Culturally, Dallas is a bit of a paradox—in the best way. It’s polished but still distinctly Texan, where high fashion and luxury sit right next to dive bars and barbecue joints. There’s a strong appreciation for design, from the architecture in the Design District to the way restaurants and hotels are styled, but it never feels too precious. It’s also a city that loves to socialize—big group dinners, long brunches, nights that turn into something more. And while it’s grown and modernized a lot over the years, there’s still that underlying Southern warmth and familiarity that makes it feel easy and approachable.

I’ve been gone for the better part of a decade, mostly popping back into Dallas for holidays, birthdays, or friends’ weddings. And every time I come back, there’s always a new place that I “have to try.” Entire neighborhoods have evolved into hot spots—Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts, the Design District—all bringing their own energy to the city. To be honest, I probably don’t know every single new place worth going right now, but this list is built on my staples—the Dallas institutions I grew up with, mixed with the places that have stuck with me over time. I may have gone a little deep on some of these, but I couldn’t leave anything out. To make it easier, I’ve marked my favorites with a *—because some places just deserve it.

American

- *Hillstone – The former Houston’s, and still one of the most reliable meals in the city. They just nail everything, especially the Hickory Burger, ribs, and fries!
- *R+D Kitchen – A sister spot to Hillstone with the same polished, consistent feel. Don’t miss the Osaka-style pressed sushi roll, plus the carnitas sandwich, dip duo, and deviled eggs.
- *Honor Bar – Another Hillstone favorite with a slightly more casual vibe. The deviled eggs, kale salad, and crispy chicken sandwich are all go-to orders.
- Louie’s – A true neighborhood staple serving up hot pizza and cold martinis. It’s casual, a little chaotic, and always a good time.
- *Bubba’s – A retro-style diner known for some of the best fried chicken in Dallas. Great for breakfast sandwiches or a quick, classic comfort meal.
- Mermaid Bar – A bright, slightly nostalgic café inside Neiman Marcus. It’s a fun lunch stop with classic American dishes and a full bar.
- *Neighborhood Services -A dimly lit, buzzy spot from chef Nick Badovinus serving elevated American comfort food. The fried asparagus is a must.
- The Henry – A high-energy, beautifully designed restaurant that works for just about anything—coffee, brunch, or dinner. Always lively with a strong all-day menu. They have great crispy rice!
- *Hudson House – A neighborhood favorite with a great raw bar and one of the best burgers in the city. Easy, consistent, and always busy.
- Celebration – A homestyle Dallas classic serving comfort food like pot roast, fried chicken, and cobbler. It’s casual, nostalgic, and very local.
- Drake’s – A swanky, Old Hollywood–inspired steakhouse with a strong cocktail scene. It’s a bit of a scene, but fun for a night out.
- *Montlake Cut – A seafood-focused restaurant with a Pacific Northwest influence. Great for fresh fish, oysters, and a more polished dinner.
- Beverly’s – A refined neighborhood bistro with seasonal seafood, steaks, and a great cocktail program. It’s polished but still approachable. They’ve got a great brunch, too!
- Georgie’s – Chef Curtis Stone’s Dallas restaurant combining a butcher shop feel with elevated dining. It’s more refined and great for a longer dinner.
- Gemma – A relaxed, coastal-inspired spot with a California feel. The menu is seasonal and consistently well executed.
- Angela’s Cafe – A laid-back diner serving classic breakfast and lunch staples. Nothing fancy—just reliable and easy.
- Shug’s Bagels – A go-to for great bagels and breakfast sandwiches. Simple, casual, and always hits.
- Breadwinner’s – A longtime brunch favorite known for indulgent, comfort-heavy dishes. Expect a wait, especially on weekends.
- Nick & Sam’s Grill – A more casual offshoot of the steakhouse with a broad, comfort-driven menu. Great for brunch or an easy dinner.
- Casa Brasa – A high-energy, design-forward restaurant that leans into bold, fire-driven cooking with Latin influences. Expect everything from sushi and seafood to open-flame grilled dishes in a dramatic, “vibe-heavy” setting.
- DL Mack’s – A classic neighborhood spot that feels like a polished version of your go-to American tavern. Think elevated comfort food, a great bar scene, and an easy, reliable dinner option.
- Brentwood – laid-back neighborhood restaurant with a cozy, upscale feel. It’s the kind of place you go for a relaxed dinner that still feels a little elevated—solid across the board. Thier ribs and chicken tenders are a must!
- Jack & Harry’s – A New Orleans–inspired chophouse blending French influences with coastal Southern flavors. The menu leans into dry-aged steaks, seafood, and classic cocktails, all served in a warm, slightly clubby setting.

Steakhouse & Seafood

Bob’s Steak & Chop House – A Texas-born classic known for big, no-nonsense steaks and a warm, wood-paneled atmosphere. It’s old-school in the best way.
Al Biernat’s – A longtime Dallas favorite with a lively bar scene and consistently great steaks and seafood. It’s polished, social, and always a solid choice.
Del Frisco’s – A classic, over-the-top steakhouse experience with prime cuts, seafood, and an extensive wine list. It’s big, bold, and very Dallas.
Truluck’s – A refined seafood-forward spot known for its stone crab, strong wine list, and more elevated feel. Great for a dressier night out.
3 Forks – A clubby, upscale steakhouse with a broad menu and plenty of private dining spaces. It leans more traditional and polished.
S&D Oyster Company – A cozy, New Orleans–style seafood spot that’s been around forever. It’s casual, charming, and the crab dip is a must.
Cafe Pacific – A Highland Park institution for seafood and steak. It’s elegant, classic, and known for impeccable service.
Papas Brothers Steak – Widely considered one of the best steakhouses in Dallas. Exceptional steaks, an incredible wine program, and a more refined, serious dining experience.
Nick & Sam’s – A high-energy, see-and-be-seen steakhouse with a strong nightlife feel. Great food, but also very much a scene.
Ocean Prime – A sleek seafood and steak spot with a lively atmosphere and a great patio. It’s modern, social, and well-executed.
Greenpoint – A relaxed, coastal-inspired seafood spot that feels easy and neighborhood-y. Great for oysters, light bites, and a casual dinner that still hits.
Clark’s Oyster Bar – A polished, East Coast–style oyster bar with a great patio and a consistently strong menu. Come for the oysters and martinis, stay for the whole experience.
Lover’s Seafood Market -A seafood market-meets-restaurant from a local favorite chef. Fresh, high-quality fish with a slightly more refined feel, but still approachable.

European

*Rise n°1 – A cozy French bistro known for its soufflés. The move is to start with the Rise salad, go for a savory soufflé (the Southwest chicken is a favorite), and finish with something sweet.
*Ziziki’s – My go-to for Greek in Dallas. You can’t skip the Ziziki bread, Greek salad, and chicken souvlaki—it’s all consistently great.
Cafe Istanbul – A lively Turkish spot with a great patio and a fun atmosphere, especially on weekends. Expect classic dishes and a more energetic dining experience.
Toulouse – A warm, classic French bistro that’s always busy. The onion soup and steak frites are the go-to orders.
Kuby’s Sausage House & European Market – A longtime Dallas staple for German comfort food. Think sausages, sauerkraut, and beer, plus an attached market that’s worth browsing.
*Le Bilboquet – A polished French spot with a bright, upscale feel. The Cajun chicken is what everyone comes for.
Cafe Madrid – A classic Spanish tapas bar with a strong wine list. It’s cozy, a little old-school, and great for sharing plates.
Barcelona – A more modern tapas spot with a broad menu and an extensive wine list. It’s lively, easy, and great for groups.
Mercat Bistro – A charming French café-style spot that works for breakfast, lunch, or brunch. Light, classic dishes in a bright, bistro setting.
La Duni – A unique mix of European and Latin American flavors. Known for standout dishes like their ribs and great cocktails (the pisco sour is a must).
Parigi – A neighborhood bistro with a more refined feel and a creative, seasonal menu. It’s polished but still approachable.
Bistro 31 – An elegant, understated European-style bistro in Highland Park Village. Great for a more dressed-up lunch or dinner.
Paradisio – A bright, coastal Mediterranean restaurant centered around a beautiful courtyard. Great for drinks or a relaxed dinner.
Mister Charles – A glamorous, design-forward spot blending French and Italian influences. It’s polished, a little over-the-top in the best way, and perfect for a dressed-up dinner with a strong martini.
Avra – A sleek, upscale Greek restaurant centered around pristine seafood and simple, high-quality ingredients. Think whole fish, olive oil, and a bright, airy dining room that feels straight out of the Mediterranean.
Le Bistro Bar Sardine – A charming, Parisian-style bistro with a cozy, romantic feel. Classic French dishes, good wine, and one of those spots that feels perfect for a slower, more intimate dinner.
Mamani – A beautifully designed, Mediterranean-leaning restaurant with French and Italian Riviera influences. It’s light, elegant, and perfect for a longer, wine-filled dinner with a great patio scene.

Mexican

- *Mi Cocina – “MiCo” is as much about the scene as it is the food. It’s the place to sip and be seen—order the sunset fajitas and a Mambo Taxi and you’re set.
- *Javier’s – A longtime Dallas staple for Mexico City–style cuisine with a more upscale feel. Great margaritas, a lively dining room, and the cigar bar adds to the whole experience. I love their queso fundido, pollo a la parrilla!
- *Jose’s – A more refined, modern Mexican restaurant that still keeps things approachable. The street corn and quesadillas are must-orders, and everything on the menu is consistently good.
- Mia’s – A busy, longtime favorite known for its brisket tacos and classic Tex-Mex dishes. It’s casual, a little chaotic, and always hits.
- Rafa’s – A colorful, no-frills spot serving classic Mexican dishes and strong margaritas. Great for a relaxed meal or weekend brunch.
- *Torchy’s Taco – The Austin import that still delivers. Creative tacos, great queso, and consistently one of the better fast-casual options—go for the Baja shrimp or green chili pork.
- *Taco Deli – Another Austin favorite with a huge menu of tacos, especially for breakfast. It’s BYOB, casual, and always reliable.
- Rusty Taco – A casual taco joint serving both classic and creative options. Easy, no-fuss, and a good everyday spot.
- El Fenix – One of the original Tex-Mex institutions in Dallas. It’s old-school, nostalgic, and still a go-to for tamales and fajitas. Thier tamales con carne are my favorite – and don’t forget the sopa-people for deseert!
- Muchacho – A more modern Tex-Mex spot with a warm dining room and a great patio. A good mix of traditional and slightly more regional dishes. Their Mango Margs are incredible.
- El Carlos Elegante – A more elevated, Mexico City–inspired restaurant with a focus on high-quality ingredients and a wood-fired grill. It’s refined, a little more design-forward, and great for a longer dinner.
- Doce Mesas -A more elevated take on classic Tex-Mex with a polished, modern feel. Great margaritas, strong all-around menu, and an easy spot for a lively dinner.
- The Mexican – One of the most over-the-top dining experiences in Dallas right now. Big, bold, and very scene-y—come for the elevated Mexican dishes, stay for the tequila and the energy.
- Las Palmas – A modern Tex-Mex favorite with a great patio and consistently solid food. It’s polished but still fun—perfect for a long, margarita-filled meal.
- El Molino – A more traditional, low-key Mexican spot focused on authentic flavors and simple dishes. It’s casual, no-frills, and all about the food.

Asian

*Asian Mint – A go-to for Thai that’s always consistent. The chicken satay and pad thai are staples, and the glass noodle dish is worth ordering every time.
*Shinsei – A longtime favorite blending sushi and Asian-inspired dishes. The crispy Brussels, hoisin baby back ribs, and pork steam buns are all standouts—plus great sushi rolls.
*Nobu – The Dallas outpost of the iconic brand, serving refined Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. It’s polished, scene-y, and great for a higher-end dinner.
*Royal China – One of the best spots in Dallas for authentic Chinese. Known for its handmade dumplings and some of the strongest dim sum in the city.
Oiishi – A strip-mall gem with a mix of sushi and Asian dishes. It’s casual, a little under the radar, and consistently good.
Sushi Kyoto – A small, no-frills sushi spot with a loyal following. Go for the Monkey Brain, crispy rice, and specialty rolls.
Oni Ramen – A casual ramen spot with build-your-own options and a laid-back vibe. Great for something quick and satisfying.
Nori Handroll Bar – A warm, minimalist handroll bar focused on fresh temaki and small plates. It’s simple, well done, and a great sushi experience.
Uchi Dallas – A staple for sushi in Dallas with a more modern, creative approach. The tasting menu is the move if you want to try a bit of everything.
Uchiba – The more casual, bar-forward sister to Uchi. It’s great for cocktails, sushi, and a more relaxed version of the Uchi experience.
Tei Tei Robata Bar – A longtime Dallas favorite for Japanese cuisine, especially robata-style grilling. It’s more traditional, intimate, and consistently excellent.
Feng Shui Dallas – A newer, upscale Asian concept in Uptown with a very design-forward feel. It’s more of a “scene” spot but worth knowing.
Anchor Sushi Bar – A newer sushi concept with a polished, slightly preppy aesthetic and a strong menu. Feels fresh compared to older Dallas sushi spots.
Night Rooster – A brand-new, high-end Chinese restaurant in the Design District from a Top Chef alum. It’s more refined and modern, with a serious fine-dining angle—one of the biggest recent openings in Dallas.
Neighborhood Sushi – A refined, low-key sushi spot from the Uchi team that keeps things simple and really well executed. It’s more relaxed than Uchi, but still delivers on quality and consistency.
DOMODOMO – A sleek, modern sushi concept known for its signature handroll sets and minimalist approach. It’s polished, a little different, and perfect for a more curated sushi experience.
Ten Ramen – A casual ramen spot focused on rich broths and simple, well-done bowls. It’s quick, cozy, and always hits when you’re craving something comforting.
Elephant East – A stylish, Southeast Asian–inspired spot with bold flavors and a fun, social energy. Great for sharing plates, cocktails, and a lively dinner that leans a little more scene-y.

Italian:

Prego’s – A family-run Italian spot serving classic Southern Italian dishes. Think red-sauce pastas, thin-crust pizza, and a very old-school, comforting feel.
Penne Pomodoro – A bright, casual Italian bistro that’s great for an easy lunch or dinner. Simple pastas, pizzas, and a no-fuss atmosphere.
Sprezza – A more elevated Italian restaurant with a polished but comfortable feel. Great for pasta, pizza, and a slightly more refined night out.
*Terilli’s – A longtime Dallas favorite with a fun, slightly funky vibe. Italian classics, strong martinis, live jazz, and a great rooftop make it a go-to.
*Carbone– A modern Italian spot from NYC with a more minimalist feel. It’s elevated but still rooted in classic Italian flavors. Have to get their spicy rigatoni!
Olivella’s – nown for recipes rooted in Italian tradition, especially their pizzas. A solid, casual option for classic Italian fare.
Eno’s – A neighborhood favorite and a go-to for great pizza. It’s casual, consistent, and always a hit. One of my family favorites!
*Campisi’s – One of Dallas’ most iconic Italian spots, known for its pizza and classic dishes since the 1940s. Don’t skip the crab claws.
Fachini – An upscale Italian restaurant with a more glamorous feel. Great for a dressed-up dinner and a more indulgent menu.
Coal Vine’s – A stylish Uptown spot known for thin-crust pizza and a lively atmosphere. Great for a casual but slightly elevated night.
Cane Rosso’s – A go-to for authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Casual, lively, and consistently one of the best pizza spots in the city.
*il Bracco – A chic Italian spot with a great patio and strong all-around menu. If you’re there for brunch, don’t miss the carbonara and their signature frozen cocktail.
The Charles – A beautifully designed, high-energy Italian spot in the Design District. Wood-fired dishes, strong cocktails, and a scene that leans more nightlife than quiet dinner.
Pizzana – The LA favorite known for its neo-Neapolitan pizzas has landed in Dallas. Light, chewy crusts, high-quality ingredients, and a more refined take on a casual pizza night.
Elephante – A coastal Italian-inspired restaurant with a bright, airy feel and a very social atmosphere. Great for cocktails, shareable plates, and a long, lively dinner.
Poco Fiasco – A fun, more casual Italian spot from the same group behind The Charles. Think pizza, pasta, and spritzes in a laid-back but still design-forward setting.

BBQ

*18th & Vine – Kansas City-style smoked meats & chef-crafted entrees served in a rustic space with a music venue.
*Pecan Lodge – One of the most well-known BBQ spots in Dallas, and still one of the best. Go for the brisket, ribs, and loaded sides—it’s the full Texas BBQ experience.
Dickey’s – A longtime Texas BBQ chain that started in Dallas. It’s more casual and convenient, but still a solid option if you’re looking for something quick.
Terry Black’s – The Austin import that delivers on classic Central Texas BBQ. Brisket, sausage, ribs—it’s all done really well, with strong sides to match.
Smokey Rose – A more polished, restaurant-style BBQ spot with a wood-fired smoker, craft cocktails, and elevated sides. Great if you want BBQ with a slightly more refined feel.
Son of a Butcher – Not traditional BBQ, but worth including if you want something fun and casual. Known for sliders and a laid-back vibe—more of a quick stop than a BBQ destination.
Lockhart Smokehouse – A Bishop Arts staple bringing traditional Central Texas BBQ to Dallas. Order by the pound, grab some sides, and keep it simple.

Burger:

*Jack’s Burger House – The iconic Dallas burger spot. Thin, flavorful patties, crispy fries, and their signature seasoning salt that keeps you coming back.
*Hopdoddy – The Austin import known for craft burgers and a more elevated fast-casual feel. Don’t skip the chili cheese fries.
Goff’s – A true old-school burger shack that’s been around since the 1950s. Simple burgers, shakes, and a nostalgic, no-frills vibe.
Adair’s Saloon – A classic Deep Ellum dive known for live country music and surprisingly great burgers. It’s gritty, casual, and very Dallas.
Twisted Root – A classic Deep Ellum dive known for live country music and surprisingly great burgers. It’s gritty, casual, and very Dallas.
Chip’s – A family-friendly staple known for classic, old-school burgers. It’s simple, reliable, and has been around forever.
Keller’s Drive-In – A true Dallas institution with carhop service and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere. Come for the experience as much as the burger.
OSK – A small, no-frills burger spot known for doing the basics really well. It’s under-the-radar but consistently solid.
Maple & Motor – A no-frills, cult-favorite burger joint that’s all about simplicity done right. Greasy, classic, and consistently ranked among the best in Dallas.
Slider & Blues – Grew up on the original and after being closed for almost 15 years, it’s back! A laid-back burger spot known for its sliders and no-frills, neighborhood feel. It’s simple, solid, and great for an easy, casual bite when you’re not trying to overthink it.

Sandwich:

*East Hampton Sandwich Co. – An elevated take on the classic sandwich shop with more refined, ingredient-driven options. Great for a quick lunch that still feels a step above.
*The Great Outdoors – A casual, local favorite for subs and croissant sandwiches. It’s simple, nostalgic, and perfect for an easy, no-fuss meal.
Empire Bakery – A family-run bakery known for artisan breads, pastries, and really solid sandwiches. Great for breakfast or a lighter lunch.
*EatZi’s – A European-style market with an incredible selection of prepared foods, baked goods, and specialty items. The hummus and cornbread are standouts, and it’s perfect for grabbing something to-go.
Roly Poly Sandwiches – A counter-serve spot known for wraps, soups, and lighter fare. It’s quick, reliable, and good for a casual lunch.
Great American Hero -A longtime Dallas staple for classic sandwiches. It’s small, no-frills, and all about doing the basics really well.
Mendocino Farms – A more modern sandwich concept with creative combinations and fresh ingredients. It’s polished, fast-casual, and great for an easy, elevated lunch.
Snarf’s Sandwiches – A cult-favorite sandwich shop from Colorado that just expanded into Dallas. Known for oven-toasted sandwiches and strong Italian-style options.

Healthy:

Dive – A bright, coastal-inspired spot serving lighter seafood dishes and health-conscious plates. It’s fresh, clean, and an easy option when you want something on the lighter side.
*Flowerchild – A go-to for feel-good, health-forward food in a colorful, upbeat space. Whether you’re vegetarian or not, the Mother Earth Bowl is always a safe bet.
Juiceland – The Austin favorite for juices, smoothies, and quick, plant-based bites. Great for something fast, fresh, and on-the-go.
*Southpaws – A solid option for protein-packed smoothies and healthy bowls. The Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a must.
The Market at Bonton Farms -A unique South Dallas spot built around a working farm and community mission. The food is fresh, sustainable, and worth going out of your way for.
Start – A fast-casual concept focused on healthier American staples. It’s quick, modern, and great for a convenient but better-for-you meal.
True Food Kitchen – A well-known spot for health-conscious dishes with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. It’s polished, consistent, and easy for groups.
*HG supply Co. – A paleo-inspired restaurant with a strong menu of bowls, proteins, and cocktails. The vegan queso is surprisingly great, and the rooftop is perfect in good weather.
Short Stop – A low-key local favorite known for its chicken salad. It’s simple, nostalgic, and one of those under-the-radar spots people swear by.
Two Hands – An Aussie-inspired café with a clean, beachy feel. Great for brunch, coffee, and lighter, health-forward dishes.
Little Ruby’s – A New York import with an all-day café menu that leans fresh and simple. Great for breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner. Their cripsy rice salad and Malibu bowl are both fantastic – and don’t sleep on thier brussel sprouds!

Coffee:

Drip – A small, under-the-radar spot that’s all about the coffee itself. Minimal, no-frills, and a favorite for people who actually care about a good cup.
La La Land Kind Cafe – Bright, playful, and very “Dallas.” It’s aesthetic, yes—but the drinks are actually good, and the brand has a strong mission behind it.
Weekend – A stylish café inside The Joule hotel serving artisanal espresso and great pastries. It’s polished, central, and perfect for a quick downtown stop.
Otto’s – A European-style café tucked inside The Adolphus with great coffee and even better pastries. Feels a little more refined than your typical coffee shop.
Wild Detectives – A bookstore-meets-coffee shop with a relaxed, intellectual vibe. Great for a slower morning or hanging out with a book.
The Merchant – A sleek downtown café that leans a bit more elevated. Great coffee, clean design, and a good mix of locals and business crowd.
Boulangerie, Village Baking Co. -A go-to for coffee paired with some of the best pastries in Dallas. It’s more bakery-forward, but absolutely worth the stop.
Ascension Coffee – One of the anchors of Dallas’ coffee scene, with multiple locations and seriously well-sourced beans. Great for a proper sit-down coffee or even a full brunch.
Maman – A charming, French-inspired café with a warm, rustic feel. Great for coffee, pastries, and a light breakfast or lunch—feels like a little escape from the city.

Sweets & Bakeries:

JD’s Chippery – A longtime Dallas cookie staple that keeps things simple and really good. The cookies are the main event, but don’t skip the muffins or the hand-squeezed lemonade.
Steel City Pops – A fun stop for craft popsicles in bright, refreshing flavors like blood orange or Arnold Palmer. Light, easy, and perfect on a hot day.
Nothing Bundt Cake – oft, rich bundt cakes topped with their signature cream cheese icing. The mini cakes and bite-sized options make it dangerously easy to overdo it.
Pokey-O’s – The go-to for ice cream sandwiches in Dallas. Fresh-baked cookies with Blue Bell ice cream in the middle—it’s hard to beat!
Jenny’s Splendidn Ice Cream – One of the best ice cream spots around, known for creative, seasonal flavors and super creamy texture. Always worth a stop.
Emporium Pies – A Dallas favorite for indulgent, made-from-scratch pies. Flaky crusts, rich fillings, and a cozy vibe make this a must. We get our Thanksgiving pies from here!

Drinks:

*Katy Trail Icehouse – This Austin-style beer garden has dozens of brews on tap & a roomy patio affording a view of the Katy Trail. There’s a reason this is the most profitable bar in Texas! You’ve got to get their “bottlecaps” (fried jalapenos with ranch!) and wash them down with a cold Texas beer!
The Rustic – Down-home venue with locally sourced American eats, Texas brews & an outdoor patio with live music.
The Happiest Hour – Stylish bar offering choice bites, cocktails & a large deck with city views in a bustling ambiance!
Truck Yard – Complex housing food trucks in an expansive, retro outdoor space with treehouse & trailer bars. They’re also serving up some of the best Philly Cheesesteaks in town!
Dot’s Hop House – Industrial-style bar with huge open-air courtyard serving craft brews, cocktails & casual fare.
Bowen House – Set inside a historic home, this bar has a cozy, slightly upscale feel. Great cocktails, great patio, and a really easy place to settle in for the night.
Bar Colette – A newer, more intimate cocktail bar with a refined, almost European feel. It’s small, focused, and all about the craft.
Chelsea Corner – A charming American spot with a garden-like patio that’s one of the best in the city. Great for brunch or a relaxed dinner, especially when the weather’s nice.
RH Rooftop – A beautifully designed rooftop inside Restoration Hardware with a light, elevated menu. It’s more about the setting—airy, polished, and perfect for a long, leisurely lunch.
*Desert Racer
Leela’s Wine Bar – Relaxed wine bar with dozens of wines on tap, small plates & oysters served in a comfy environment.
Midnight Rambler – A subterranean cocktail lounge tucked beneath The Joule with a seriously cool, moody vibe. The drinks are creative and constantly evolving, and it’s one of the best cocktail spots in the city.
Lounge 31 – A classic, polished lounge inside Highland Park Village. Great for a drink after shopping with a slightly more upscale, social crowd.
Caché – A tucked-away, New Orleans–inspired cocktail lounge sitting above S&D Oyster. It’s intimate, a little moody, and feels like a true hidden gem—great cocktails, a small space, and one of those spots you only know about if someone tells you.
Tiny Victories – A small, design-forward cocktail bar with a more minimalist feel. The drinks are thoughtful and a little more on the refined side.
Paradiso – A bright, stylish spot with a strong cocktail program and a great patio. It leans more restaurant, but it’s just as good for drinks.
Drake’s Hollywood – A high-energy, Hollywood-inspired restaurant and bar with a strong cocktail program. It’s a bit of a scene, but fun for a night out.
Billy Can Can – A lively, Western-inspired bar and restaurant in Victory Park. Think strong cocktails, a fun atmosphere, and a bit of Texas flair.
Alice – A more upscale, nightlife-driven spot with DJs and a high-energy crowd. It’s definitely more of a “going out” destination.
Apothecary – A moody, almost “mad scientist” cocktail bar where drinks get experimental in the best way. Think clarified cocktails, infusions, and a more technical approach.
Columbian Country Club – A stylish cocktail lounge that’s great for early evening drinks. The cocktails are sharp, and it’s an easy, social spot.

Shop:

NorthPark Center – The largest and most popular shopping center in North Texas, with a mix of luxury and contemporary brands. It’s more of a full-day shopping stop with a huge selection under one roof.
Highland Park Village – The most iconic shopping destination in Dallas and one of the first open-air shopping centers in the country. It’s packed with luxury brands and designer boutiques, and the whole area feels polished, walkable, and very “Dallas.”
Forty Five Ten – A fashion-forward boutique with a strong mix of high-end designers and emerging brands. It’s one of the best places in the city if you’re looking for something more directional.Curiosities – A go-to for curated antiques and one-of-a-kind finds. It’s the kind of place you can wander through and always discover something unexpected.
Deep Vellum Books – A small, independent bookstore with a strong selection of thoughtfully curated titles. They also host readings and events, which gives it a great local, community feel.
Dolly Python – A fun, slightly eccentric vintage shop packed with clothing, antiques, and unique pieces. The cowboy boot selection alone makes it worth stopping in.
Good Records – A classic record shop with a mix of new and used vinyl, plus music memorabilia. It’s a great stop if you’re into digging for something a little more niche.
Culwell & Son -A true Dallas institution for classic menswear. Think traditional tailoring, sport coats, and a more old-school, elevated approach to dressing.
STAG Provisions – One of my favorite menswear shops! This Austin-based men’s lifestyle shop has a well-edited selection of classic apparel and accessories that never go out of style. Stag also peddles everything from grooming essentials to vintage furniture pieces, art, books, classic vinyl albums, and even taxidermy, making it a one-stop destination for all that is masculine and cool.
W Durable Goods – A smaller, more under-the-radar spot known for handcrafted leather goods. Everything feels well-made and built to last.
We are 1976 – A charming boutique with a mix of stationery, prints, books, and small home goods. It’s thoughtful, design-forward, and easy to spend time in.

To Do:

Walk/run the Katy Trail – A walking path built upon a historic railroad line that cuts through the city
Walk/run White Rock Lake – One of the most heavily-used parks in Dallas. This lake is surrounded by a running path and natural wildlife.
Visit The 6th Floor Museum – The Sixth Floor Museum chronicles the assassination & legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Explore different aspects of the history of Kennedy’s Presidency & assassination.
Visit the Dallas Arboretum – An extensive 66-acre botanical garden with seasonal exhibits!
Visit the Perot Museum of Nature & Science – With 11 permanent exhibit halls in the heart of Dallas, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science provides an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages!
Visit Klyde Warren Park – A 5.2-acre public park in Downtown Dallas, Texas. The park is over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway!
Shop & Dine at Highland Park Village – an upscale shopping plaza located at the southwest corner of Mockingbird Lane and Preston Road in Highland Park, Texas, and was the first self-contained shopping center in America. The Highland Park Village was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2000!
Shop at Northpark Mall – An upscale, enclosed shopping mall
Frontiers of Flight Museum at Love Field – an aerospace museum memorializing the pioneers of flight, from the 1920s, 30s, World War II, and to the jet/rocket age of today!
Nasher Sculpture Garden – An outdoor sculpture garden that houses collections of modern and contemporary sculpture.
Catch America’s Team, the Dallas Cowboys in action, or a ball game with the Texas Rangers!
See the Giant Eyeball – A 30-ft. tall, realistically rendered fiberglass sculpture of a human eyeball in a fenced garden. (1601 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201)
Dallas Farmer’s Market – since 1941, the Dallas Farmers Market has been filled with wholesome produce and the collective fruits of our labor.
The George W. Bush Presidential Library – George W. Bush museum with 9/11 “Situation Room’ Experience
Dallas Reunion Tower “The Ball” – Observation Deck and restaurant located at the top of one of Dallas’ most iconic skyline buildings!
Visit Medieval Times– A family dinner theater featuring staged medieval-style games, sword-fighting, and jousting.
Visit the Texas State Fair – an annual state fair held in Dallas at historic Fair Park. The fair has taken place every year since 1886 except for varying periods during World War I and World War II. The 2020 State Fair was canceled amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Starts last Friday of September and lasts 24 days
Dine & shop around Bishop Arts District- The hip Bishop Arts District is known for its diverse nightlife, chic independent fashion stores, and colorful street art. Dining choices range from Texas-style BBQ to Vietnamese pho, while relaxed bars pour everything from cocktails to house-brewed cider.
Visit Thanks-Giving Square – Public park featuring a sanctuary with amazing stained glass on the ceiling.
See a show at the Granada Theater – The theatre was built in 1946 as a movie house. In 1977, it was converted to a concert hall, only to revert to a movie theater soon after. In 2004 it was again opened as a concert hall.
Texas Live! – Vibrant entertainment food fair featuring a variety of restaurants, cocktail bars & giant sports TVs. Between Arlington Park and The Cowboys Stadium

At the end of the day, Dallas is one of those cities that reveals itself over time. It’s not always loud about what makes it special—but once you find your spots, your routines, your people, it really clicks. There’s this effortless mix of comfort and energy here that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. Whether you’re coming for the food, the shopping, or just passing through, I hope this guide helps you experience the Dallas I know and love. And if you discover a hidden gem or a new favorite along the way, you already know—I’m going to need that recommendation for my next trip back.

Stay Risky,

– John