Dallas Delights: Top Restaurants Defining Big D's Dining

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Gillian Spatz

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  • Dallas

  • Active Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • Food & Wine

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  • Sightseeing

Dining in Dallas
Curator’s statement

Dallas, a city where urban sophistication meets Texan charm, is a treasure trove of experiences. It boasts a thriving arts scene, including the renowned Arts District, and a diverse culinary landscape that ranges from authentic Texas barbecue to upscale dining. The city's vibrant sports culture, highlighted by dedicated fans of the Cowboys and Mavericks, adds to its dynamic allure. As a must-visit destination, Dallas offers a unique blend of cultural richness, diverse gastronomy, and a passionate sports scene, providing visitors with an immersive journey into the heart of Texas life and traditions.

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Where to stay in Dallas

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Fairmont Dallas

Timeless elegance in the heart of the Lone Star State.

Fora Perks
  • Hotel / resort credit.

  • VIP welcome & amenity.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek

Palatial hotel with stunning lodgings and an iconic estate restaurant excellent for a romantic weekend staycation.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Thompson Dallas

A handsome new addition in the high-rise The National building, with 219 rooms and suites and a full-service spa.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

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Things to do in Dallas

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a nationally acclaimed 66 acre display garden.

Discover the dynamic spirit of Dallas, a city where Southern hospitality meets urban sophistication. This guide invites you on an epicurean adventure through Dallas's diverse culinary landscape, featuring everything from smoky barbecue joints to high-end dining experiences. Coupled with an array of vibrant activities, from exploring the historic arts district to indulging in the city's lively entertainment scene, Dallas promises a travel experience filled with flavor and excitement.

1. Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. It's located in the former Texas School Book Depository building, where evidence of the JFK assassination was found.

2. Explore the Dallas Arts District: The largest urban arts district in the United States, it's home to many renowned institutions like the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center, offering a rich cultural experience.

3. Stroll Through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Enjoy 66 acres of beautiful gardens on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake. It's known for its seasonal festivals, educational programs, and stunning floral displays.

4. Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science: A family-friendly destination offering interactive exhibits in areas like paleontology, space, and technology. It's a great place to learn and engage with science in a fun way.

5. Enjoy the Reunion Tower: Known for its distinctive glowing ball, the Reunion Tower offers a 360-degree view of the Dallas skyline. It's a great spot for panoramic photos and dining with a view.

6. Discover the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum: This museum offers insights into the presidency of George W. Bush, with exhibits on significant events of his administration, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina.

7. Experience the Dallas World Aquarium: Situated in the West End Historic District, this aquarium and zoo showcases an impressive array of marine and wildlife species, offering an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.

8. Take a Tour of AT&T Stadium: Home to the Dallas Cowboys, this stadium is a marvel of modern engineering. Guided tours include access to the locker rooms, field, and private suites.

9. Visit the Klyde Warren Park: This 5.2-acre public park is built over a freeway and features a children's park, a dog park, food trucks, and free activities like yoga, concerts, and outdoor films.

10. Explore the Bishop Arts District: A small shopping and entertainment district in North Oak Cliff, known for its diverse nightlife, unique boutiques, art galleries, and variety of restaurants.

Places to eat & drink in Dallas

Fearing's Restaurant is created by celebrity Chef Dean Fearing.

Pecan Lodge

A renowned barbecue haven in Deep Ellum, Pecan Lodge is celebrated for its smoky, meaty goodness, especially its beef brisket and homemade sausage.

Fearing’s Restaurant

Led by celebrity chef Dean Fearing, this restaurant in the Ritz-Carlton offers elevated American cuisine with Texan roots, featuring the Maple-Black peppercorn-soaked Buffalo Tenderloin.

Tei-An

A high-end Japanese soba house in Dallas, Tei-An serves handmade soba noodles and a variety of contemporary dishes, including the White Seaweed Salad and Soba.

Knife

Chef John Tesar’s Knife redefines the steakhouse concept with traditional and rare cuts, all sourced from Texan ranches, including the notable 240-Day Dry-Aged Rib Eye.

Abacus

Known for its fusion cuisine, Abacus merges Asian, Southwestern, and American flavors, offering dishes like the Lobster-Scallion "Shooters" in Red Chile-Coconut Sake.

Lucia

Situated in the Bishop Arts District, Lucia is an intimate Italian restaurant famed for its handcrafted pasta and salumi, including the House-Cured Salumi Platter.

CBD Provisions

Located in The Joule hotel, CBD Provisions is celebrated for its modern Texas brasserie approach to hearty, local, and sustainable cuisine, with Berkshire Pig Head Carnitas as a signature dish.

Homewood

Chef Matt McCallister's Homewood focuses on local ingredients and modern techniques to offer innovative comfort food, like Handmade Pasta with Seasonal Ingredients.

Uchi

The Dallas branch of the famous Austin sushi restaurant, Uchi, is known for its blend of traditional Japanese and modern fusion dishes, including the Hama Chili.

As your journey in Dallas concludes, you leave with a taste of its rich culture and culinary diversity. The city's blend of iconic Texas flavors and innovative cuisine, paired with its array of activities and attractions, makes Dallas a must-visit destination. Whether you're savoring world-class barbecue or exploring the arts, Dallas offers a unique experience that captivates the heart of every traveler. Plan your visit to Dallas and immerse yourself in a city where every meal and moment tells a story.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, 8 Enchanting Family-Friendly Experiences in London.



Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Dallas.