I’m sure many of you know I’m a foodie at heart (just watch my Instagram stories)! It could’ve been effortless to “copy and paste” a simple list, but I wanted a curated list of personal favorites that I feel represent Dallas eating in the best way possible. Below you’ll find several different categories of Dallas restaurants along with reasons I love them and what I’d recommend ordering! I’ve only listed the places that I would take my friends to because you all are like my friends! I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT YOU ALL THINK!!!! ENJOY 🙂
TOP 10 FAVORITE DALLAS RESTAURANTS
Everything I’ve tried here has been insanely good! Surprisingly, the chicken is one of the best dishes which I don’t normally order chicken when I go out to eat. You must try the burger too! Then grab a drink at Goose Bar in the back!
Choose whether you’re in the mood to be good or bad… Either way you can’t go wrong. One of my absolute favorite spots in my neighborhood where you’ll find phenomenal steak, and of course some incredible pastas.
Speaking of pasta… This is Leigh’s first restaurant and she killed it. The only thing I have to say is you MUST order the lasagna.
My #1 “go-to” spot when anyone asks me for a recommendation! I’ll actually go sit at the bar by myself some nights just because I love the ambiance so much. If you’re a fan of octopus it’s a must try!
This new sushi spot is quite small, but full of flavor! I got to sit next to the owner one night and taste soooo many good things! I loved getting to learn all about how he started the restaurant, and he actually built a lot of it on his own!!
My favorite brunch spot for almost anything… They have the healthiest pancakes ever so I never feel guilty ordering them! Everything is sourced from the best ingredients so I know I’m eating truly good food.
If you want the best pasta you’ve ever had in your life you better get your reservation now. I book a reservation here every year for my birthday!
Get the pappardelle… I promise you will fall in love. This is my absolute favorite date night spot. Not only is their pasta made fresh every day, but their menu is all-around incredible. And, if you are an oyster lover they’ve got you covered!
I was so surprised at how amazing the food was here! It’s always a popular spot so I recommend making a reservation, but if you’re like me then I always prefer to sit at the bar. I’ve only been a couple of times, but everything I’ve had did NOT disappoint.
Do you like cheese? Do you like queso? And do you love Mexican? Then you need to go to Javier’s. It’s a local spot that has been here for I don’t even know how long. I love their food, but they have this after-dinner cocktail that they light on fire that’s absolutely delicious. And, be sure to check out the Cigar Bar!
DALLAS RESTAURANT GUIDE: BY CATEGORY
AMERICAN
Honor Bar
Quarter Acre
Hudson House
Neighborhood Services
The meatballs!! You have to order them for an appetizer, but I’ve for sure ordered them as my entree.
Hilstone
I grew up going here whenever we would come down from Oklahoma to visit my aunt. All I can say is it’s just good. It’s our “go-to” whenever my parents come to town because it never disappoints.
ASIAN
BRUNCH/BREAKFAST
Cafe Brazil
Literally can never go wrong with this place… Great for hangover brunch haha. Get the pumpkin pancakes when they are in season!
Jonathan’s
The wait might be 2 hours, but it’s worth it! Chicken and waffles…that’s all I’m going to say.
BURGERS
Keller’s Burgers
Off Site Kitchen
A little hole in the wall with a lot to offer! So if you want a juicy drip down your hand’s burger this is the place.
BBQ
Smoky Rose
This place is a little bit outside of Dallas, but it’s top-notch. I had my birthday dinner (not on my actual bday bc that’s’ Lucia night) there with my girlfriends last year, and it exceeded my expectations. And the venue is so pretty!
COCKTAILS
Apothecary
Goose Bar
Bowen House
Great first date spot!!
COFFEE SHOPS
Boulangerie
Best almond croissant ever. Actually, all of their pastries remind me of being in Paris.
Halcyon
My favorite is their iced lavender almond milk latte.
DATE NIGHT
Gemma
I feel guilty saying this, but I had the rabbit pappardelle and oh my goodness… This place is one of those spots where I always try to go to when mom and dad are in town (or when I find a husband).
ITALIAN
Sprezza
So I think I could eat my weight in pasta and pizza here! Definitely at the top of my list for date night spots, but don’t plan on doing anything after bc I’ll be in a wine and pasta coma…
Dolce Riviera
Beautiful outdoor seating area! In addition, it’s a great spot for dinner or drinks with friends or another couple.
LUNCH SPOTS
Bird Bakery
Chicken salad + mini cupcake + hibiscus tea = the perfect lunch. And, another Insta worthy photo spot!
Honor Bar
If you want to do some shopping (or window shopping for me) in Highland Park Village and need a really great salad or glass of rosé you’ll love this place.
MEXICAN
Mi Cocina
Because everyone needs a Mambo Taxi experience! Best (and strongest) margs in town + brisket tacos = true love!
El Bolero
If you want an Insta worthy picture you’ve gotta go here! They are opening a new location so close to me too, yay!!
PATIOS
The Rustic
Great for outdoor live music, and a Texas vibe. Definitely get the burger!
Happiest Hour
Their rooftop patio is a close second to HG… If you’re going to a concert or game at American Airlines Center this place is perfect for drinks and pretty views.
PIZZA
Pizzana
Pie Tap Pizza Workshop + Bar
They make their own bread which is so light and fluffy! Order the cheese fondue for an appetizer or get it with your pizza to dip the crust in!!
STEAKHOUSES
Georgie
Drake’s
Nick & Sam’s
My personal favorite, but we live in Texas so you’ve got your pick of delicious steakhouses. Moreover, Mac n’ cheese is the reason this is my favorite spot!
SUSHI
Shinsei
Another Dallas spot the locals love! If it was closer to me I’d go more often!
WINE BARS
Time’s Ten Cellars
Great spot for events or just a casual girls’ night!
Alright, that completes my Dallas restaurant guide! Since the restaurant scene changes fairly frequently here in Dallas, I’ll be updating this list a lot. So be sure to check back! Also, share your favorite dishes/drinks from these places below so I can try them out!!
Smoky rose is not outside Dallas. It’s in Dallas!
Great post! Reading about all these yummy spots has me in the mood for delicious pizza and mexican food! Now I’m hungry all over again, haha!
Tabitha
https://shopsiloe.com
Love love your pics! What about Mercat for brunch! Makes you feel like you’re on vacay.
Superb blog! would love visit all these places & taste the dishes they offer.
PLEASE post addresses of the restaurants!!
Googling BBQ and found this page listing the Smokey Rose. This place goes beyond BBQ, amazing location and food!
Do a bars and nightclubs one, that would be fun.