The Dallas Guide
Encanto Pops
Permanently Closed
"Inspired by their childhood in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, the Diaz siblings (three sisters and a brother) have taken the classic paleteria and updated it with brilliant, imaginative flavors. There are two varieties of pops—cream-based and water-based. And all of them, from prickly pear and café de olla to mango avocado, can be dipped in milk or dark chocolate or drizzled with the family’s secret chamoy recipe."
Emporium Pies
Pie shop · Bishop Arts District
"This adorable shop specializes in spectacular pies, whether you like them creamy and topped with thick, brûléed meringue or filled with fresh fruit with a crumble on top. Owners Megan Wilkes and Mary Sparks change the menu four times a year to reflect the season, but the super popular Smooth Operator (chocolate cream with a pretzel crust) and Drunken Nut (bourbon and pecan) are available all year long."
The Wild Detectives
Book store · Bishop Arts District
"This independent bilingual bookstore is an amazing spot, day or night. In the morning, stop by for Oak Cliff Coffee Roasters and breakfast tacos; in the evenings, the place transforms into a full-service bar with tapas and a lively backyard. Their events, like Shakespeare in the Bar and poetry and book readings, are absolutely fantastic."
The Joule
Hotel · Downtown
"Housed in the former Dallas National Bank—and boasting some of the best places in town to eat, drink, and shop (CBD Provisions, Midnight Rambler, Tenoversix, and Taschen, to name a few)—the Joule is more of a cultural epicenter than a hotel. It's brought in a brand of laid-back cool to downtown Dallas that was formerly nonexistent. Plus, whether you book a Mini Joule (a tiny hotel room boasting just the basics) or a suite (views of the city from on high), all rooms are tastefully and luxuriously appointed with Frette sheets and modern yet plush furnishings, no matter the size. An awesome art collection, a rooftop pool, and the Espa spa are the cherry on top."
The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Hotel · LoMac
"You pretty much know what to expect from a Ritz hotel and you also know what to expect from Dallas, which is a kind of over-the-top fanciness and an appreciation for the finer things gone a little larger than life. The Ritz Dallas is a perfect conflation of the two. Granted, the rooms are a little traditional, as is the restaurant, and lobby décor, but what else would you expect? It’s the impeccable service, the kids' activities on offer, the days spent lounging by the pool, the Bentleys on call to take you around the city, and the sprawling spa complex that make the stay."
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek
Hotel · Turtle Creek
"Originally the private residence of oil tycoon Sheppard King, the Mansion was purchased and renovated into a hotel and restaurant in the 1980s. Since then, it’s been a Dallas institution known for understated, perfectly executed luxury. Beyond the pressed linens, each room—beautiful, large, stately—has its own wide balcony. The restaurant feels like a 1920s formal dining room, and the menu has tortilla soup and beef tenderloin. Weekends at the Mansion Bar are a fun, well-kept secret—the Sinatra-esque Hunter Sullivan keeps the crowd dancing until the bar closes. "
House of Dear Hair Salon
Hair salon · Cityplace
"Holly Dear’s Uptown hair studio is always packed. Whether you book an appointment with one of the founders (you might have to wait) or one of the other super talented stylists, this is place to go for edgy-but-lived-in cuts and colors. It’s known for natural-looking balayage, but you can also get braids and blowouts at the bar in the back. "
SoulCycle Preston Hollow
Indoor cycling · Devonshire
"It was only a matter of time. As SoulCycle studios populate almost every neighborhood in New York, it’s no surprise the indoor cycling studio has made its way to Dallas. On any given morning, sixty or so riders pile into a candlelit studio for forty-five minutes of high-intensity pumping cardio—and sweat, a lot of sweat. There’s also a second location in Uptown. "
The PilatesBarre
Pilates studio · Greenville Ave
"Drawing from a combination of techniques from Pilates, strength training, cardio, and ballet, Meghann O’Leary, the founder of The PilatesBarre, has put together a roster of classes diverse enough to avoid repetition fatigue. Using a revamped Pilates machine known as the BarreFormer, the fifty-minute sessions target both big and small muscle groups. Classes are small, and the instructors are very hands-on and ready to get in there and make adjustments. "
Blushington Dallas
Permanently Closed
"A cheery space that resembles a blowout bar (champagne pours are always on offer), this is the place you come to get ready for drinks, dinner, a wedding, you name it. On the menu: a full makeup application, brow touch-ups, fake-lash application, a twenty-minute Tata Harper facial. It's great for groups if you're traveling with a pack. They make house calls, too. "
Rise Nation Dallas
Permanently Closed
"The classes at Rise Nation are only thirty minutes for a reason—that amount of time on the VersaClimber, a vertical machine that tones both your arms and legs by simulating a fast-paced rock climbing experience—completely exhausts muscles and leaves limbs shaky. First-timers should definitely take the beginner class, to learn the proper form and pace, and prepare to be totally exhausted after the low-impact workout. "
ROSSI PARK
Beauty salon · Dallas Market Center
"Come to this relaxed, cozy salon founded by Joshua Rossignol and Sarah King Lynch for a transformative haircut, color, or extensions. Rossignol’s textured cuts give hair a natural lift; Lynch was a student of LA colorist Tracey Cunningham and is especially brilliant at creating perfectly sun-kissed blonde. And the rest of the small team is talented and skilled, too, so book freely. At the back of the salon there’s a fully equipped photography studio for rent, should you need head shots, glamour shots, etc. "
Pink Pedi
Nail salon · La L'aceate
"This airy, brick-walled nail salon was one of the first in Dallas to go clean, nontoxic, and sustainable. Local fashion designer and nail artist Lucy Dang is dedicated to making every treatment a safer, more luxurious experience for both customer and technician. All the products used—there are effervescent bath bombs, custom-blended aromatherapy oils, and rich shea butters—are made in-house. Get the VIP, which combines a shoulder massage, collagen-boosting treatment, multiple scrubs, and a mud mask, all made specifically for feet: It’s beyond relaxing. "
VITAL Fitness Studio
Permanently Closed
"This incredibly cool-looking downtown gym has kick-ass boxing classes, muscle-soothing yoga classes, heart-pumping cycling, and super toning TRX, which works every single muscle in your body and looks a bit like some sort of BDSM setup. When the weather’s nice, the studio hosts fitness classes at the Joule’s outdoor art space, the Eye. Bonus: Book a fifty-minute or longer session at the neighboring Spa at the Joule and your class is free. "
We Yogis
Permanently Closed
"This studio takes its mantra of “yoga for all” very seriously. There are ten types of classes, at all different levels, as well as options for kids and teens. Some of the best: deep stretching, an energizing vinyasa flow set to rock music, and sculpt classes warmed with an infrared sauna. There’s even a class for families to take together, where kids sing “Row Your Boat” while parents hold the boat pose. (They have several locations throughout the city, including one on Lovers Lane.) "
Truck Yard
Bar · Belmont
"Park it in the yard and snack it up with some of the city’s best food trucks without having to chase them down. Window hop from BBQ and burgers to pad thai and po' boys, order beers while you wait, and then pull up a lawn chair to one of the picnic tables under the breezy trees and let the face stuffing begin. There’s really no better way to spend an afternoon."
Bodybar Pilates Dallas
Pilates studio · Knox/Henderson
"This super challenging Pilates studio offers cutting-edge classes to tone strong, lean muscles. The fifty-minute classes incorporate reformer work, the chair, and a restorative stretch-and-release class that’s designed to work on tight fascia and increase flexibility and mobility. "
Hotel ZaZa Dallas Uptown
Hotel · LoMac
"To some, the décor may seem a little wild; to others, Zaza’s flamboyance is a welcome relief from the neutrals that characterize most hotels. The bones are Mediterranean—tile floors and soaring ceilings—but the guest rooms are a thematic riot, ranging from Moroccan-inspired to Moulin Rouge. The beds are roomy and comfortable, dressed in Italian linens, and the spa has an excellent facial program including impressive peel- and laser-based treatments. While the pool isn’t huge, its location—in a very Zen-ish garden with just a few lounge chairs—feels intimate. It’s the kind of place you want to relax with a book for a few hours before getting ready for a night out. The house bar is good times guaranteed, especially on weekends, thanks to the skilled mixologists, but the nearby Arts District means there are plenty of walkable options for dining, drinking, and wherever the evening may take you."
The Spa at the Joule
Hotel · Downtown
"The sleek subterranean spa beneath the the Joule hotel offers both traditional and experimental spa treatments in a relaxing environment. Many of the facials use Tata Harper products; body treatments include Swedish massage, cupping therapy, and Thai table massage; and there are brow treatments from threading to microblading by local brow expert Rula Sharkawi. There’s a steam room with a giant amethyst shining in the corner (thought to encourage tranquility), a sauna, showers, and the Vitality Pool, a body-temperature pool with jets that gently massage the skin. Book a 50-minute or longer service and get a free spin, kickboxing, or yoga class at the neighboring Vital Fitness Studio. "
The Spa at The Crescent
Day spa · LoMac
"This sprawling spa complex operates out of the Hotel Crescent Court, so tasteful luxury is a given. With that in mind, a full day is well spent here: They offer private yoga and Pilates classes, a health-centric café, and treatments that range from the basic (manis and pedis) to the intense (hardcore lymphatic-draining treatments). We love that the spa is open to kids, too, with a full menu of kid-friendly treatments (and snacks in the café)."
The Rustic
New American restaurant · Cityplace
"State pride is strong at this Uptown restaurant and bar—note the life-size metal longhorn outside the front door and the huge Lone Star flag made of Shiner beer cans that hangs over the bar. The pretty outdoor space, named Pat’s Backyard for part-owner and country singer Pat Green, has live music on the weekend, and there’s tons of room for kids and dogs to run around. "
Sachet
Mediterranean restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"Husband and wife Stephen Rogers and Alison Yoder opened Dallas favorite Gemma more than four years ago, and it’s still hard to get a reservation. Their newest project, Sachet, takes the same fresh approach to Mediterranean food in a much more casual, laid-back setting. The menu's small plates (all on pretty white pottery) are meant to be shared: We love the tabbouleh, roasted eggplant dip, and pickled turnips with Syrian lentil purée. The floor-to-ceiling wine cellar is impressive and filled with little-known varietals, not to mention amazing ouzo. If you’re not able to get a table, the high-top bar is fantastic for people (and plate) watching. "
Meso Maya Comida y Copas
Mexican restaurant · International Center
"Appropriately set inside a former tortilla factory, this restaurant mixes Oaxacan- and Mayan-style dishes from chef Nico Sanchez. The Budin Azteca, something of a tortilla lasagna, and Cochinita Pibil (braised pork) are absolutely transporting, and the serrano-berry margarita is incredible (hell, try the avocado one, too). The lush patio is perfect for an afternoon cocktail, and there’s a cute, casual small taqueria, La Ventana, where you can get street tacos and drinks. "
The French Room
Restaurant · Downtown
"When the French Room opened in 1912, it was one of the fanciest restaurants in Dallas. More than a hundred years and a serious restoration later, it still is. The dining room is very Versailles, with pastel glass chandeliers and gilded crown molding. Chef Michael Ehlert’s menus are all prix fixe—three or seven courses. The latter is deliciously experimental, full of surprises and thoughtful wine pairings."
Kalachandji's
Vegetarian restaurant · Mount Auburn
"Plopped down in the middle of a quiet residential neighborhood, Kalachandji's Hare Krishna Temple feels a little random. But the pay-as-you-wish Ayurvedic vegetarian and vegan buffet restaurant alone is worth the trip: Get the cardamom-turmeric rice, vegetable curries, daal, and sweet tamarind tea. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon here, so go for it. There are also great yoga classes, a calming meditation room, and Tai Chi in the garden. "
Spiral Diner & Bakery
Permanently Closed
"Incredibly delicious vegan nachos, burgers, cheesesteaks, and fresh ginger shots are the reason the Spiral Diner has been wildly popular for fifteen years and counting. Plant-based comfort foods, whether we’re talking about BBQ sandwiches or ice cream sundaes or fresh juices, are what we (and local superstar Erykah Badu) love most. It’s also super cozy, especially if you can snag one of the booths."
The Grape
Permanently Closed
"If it’s your first time at this Greenville Avenue institution, we suggest you order the burger. They make only ten a day, and they sell out. Pair it with a glass of dry champagne. Yes, really. We also love the mushroom soup, and we really love Sunday brunch (you’ll need a reservation). At night, the Grape turns into a romantic date spot with a fantastic wine list. "
Dallas Farmers Market
Farmers' market · Farmers Market District
"In 2016, the Dallas Farmers Market underwent a major renovation, and one of the unused buildings was transformed into the Shed—an amazing indoor local food hall. We love nourishing bone broth from Stocks and Bondy, Mexican furniture at the Dallas Antique Company, truffle-infused cheese from Scardello, and, of course, the fresh local produce."
Dallas Farmers Market
Farmers' market · Farmers Market District
"In 2016, the Dallas Farmers Market underwent a major renovation, and one of the unused buildings was transformed into the Shed—an amazing indoor local food hall. We love nourishing bone broth from Stocks and Bondy, Mexican furniture at the Dallas Antique Company, truffle-infused cheese from Scardello, and, of course, the fresh local produce."
Bullion
Temporarily Closed
"Everything about Bullion is dazzling, from the gold-scaled building (designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki) to the French menu by Michelin-starred chef Bruno Davaillon. Get drinks in the lounge (may we suggest ordering the French 75?), then continue to the gilt-intensive dining room for classic and contemporary French dishes. The canard à l’orange, roasted duck with orange marmalade, is especially good. The restaurant has a hydroponic farm in the building next door—pretty spectacular if you can sneak in a tour. "
Cafe Momentum
New American restaurant · Downtown
"The entire team at this beautiful New American dinner spot is made up of teenagers released from juvenile delinquent facilities. Their yearlong internships at the Café give them both life and job training. The seasonal, local menu from head chef Chad Houser is fresh and original, and the vibe is in every way uplifting: One wall is devoted to a collaborative art piece titled the “I’m Thankful Plate Project,” where past interns have written about gratitude on plates from the restaurant. "
Renee Rouleau Skin Care Spa - Plano
Permanently Closed
"An appointment at this cozy spa starts with a diagnosis: Renée Rouleau believes there are nine distinct skin types and has created regimens to care for all of them. The aestheticians (all trained by Rouleau) walk you through each step of the facial and—more importantly—how you can maintain the results after leaving the spa. We love the super thick and cool Phyto-Bubble Mask, which combines marigold, rosemary, and lime tree extracts to soothe and increase circulation and feels particularly amazing. Rouleau herself, with pastel-pink hair and gorgeous skin, is also available for one-on-one video consultations. "
Origin Kitchen + Bar
Restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"Distilling down to the essence of American cuisine these days is tough, especially with the new crop of chefs redefining it into a type of New American fare. Origin, however goes back to basics, serving the traditional, hearty American food that fueled our childhood dinners. Tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs on a bed of creamy, goat cheese grits, burgers made with the finest American bison, buttery Brussels sprout salads. Come hungry—and we mean hungry—and start with predinner drinks at the white subway-tiled bar. Appetite whetted, scoot into one of the cozy booths for what can only be described as an all-American feast, accompanied by a robust wine list. "
Ziziki's
Greek restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"A seat on the sunny patio at Ziziki's with a tableful of salty, tangy, fresh traditional Greek food is a pretty ideal way to spend a summer afternoon. The spanakopita—flaky filo pastry stuffed with seasoned spinach and feta—is a fail-safe crowd-pleaser. The keftedes (lamb meatballs in a sharp tomato sauce) are ideal to share, as are the souvlaki skewers. No meal here is complete without a bowl of Ziziki's heavenly baklava-flavored ice cream to round it off. All the buttery, sweet, nutty tastes of baklava in creamy, cold form. "
Dallas Contemporary
Non-profit organization · Dallas Market Center
"This non-collecting museum has been pushing the boundaries of the Dallas art scene for thirty years. Mary Katrantzou and Richard Phillips are just a few of the artists who have shown work here, and entry to the museum is always free. Members get access to the show-opening parties, which are absolutely worth it. "
Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ
Barbecue restaurant · Dallas Market Center
"Amazing smoked ribs, jalapeño hot links, queso topped with brisket, tons of local beer on tap, plus the Gentleman’s Handshake (a Lone Star with a shot of whiskey) are absolutely reasons to come here. But the huge backyard is the real draw. Among the picnic tables and twinkling lights, a fifty-foot-tall, fully functioning Ferris wheel runs every evening. It’s the perfect place to go on a warm evening, especially if you have kids. "
Fair Park
Park · Wheatley Place
"The Texas State Fair is everything you might expect: country-and-western shows, livestock competitions, roller coasters, and food booths that will fry just about anything. Less expected are the tiny homes exposition, where every dwelling is less than 300 square feet, and the vegan-food pavilion. Open for only three weeks a year, the fairgrounds are filled with ornate Art Deco buildings built in the 1930s, and there’s also a lake you can paddle across in a swan boat. "
Joanna Czech
Facial spa · Downtown
"Dallas friends swear they’ve experienced the best facials of their lives at the hands of Joanna Czech, who incorporates LED therapy into her treatments. After studying biology in Poland, she made a name for herself in NYC before setting up shop in Dallas in 2012. Instead of selecting a treatment from a menu, your aesthetician analyzes your skin, discusses goals with you (which could be anything from treating sun damage to glowier skin for an event that evening), and then gets to work. Every facial focuses on treating and supporting the lipid (top) layer of skin, and you can add on microcurrent, hyaluronic acid patches, oxygen infusion, microneedling, and more as you need. Some of our favorite clean lines are used in many of the facials, including Dr. Barbara Sturm, Grown Alchemist, and Vintner’s Daughter."
Snap Kitchen
Restaurant · LoMac
"Snap Kitchen has revolved around grab-and-go meals since 2010, making it one of the older companies in the relatively new healthy premade meal space. There are convenient pickup locations in Austin, Houston, Dallas, and Chicago, and while it doesn’t technically do delivery, you could easily arrange one through TaskRabbit. Snap also offers a twenty-one-day "commit" program, which offers healthy takes on hearty meals, like gluten-free beef stroganoff, bison quinoa hash, chicken butternut squash macaroni, and fettuccine and vegetable “alfredo.” The cooking style is relatively free from the niche health foods that turn some people off of clean eating, making it an easy transition for health-food rookies. "
True Food Kitchen
Health food restaurant · Galleria
"Dr. Andrew Weil's bastion of healthy, balanced eating is a welcome change to the famously rich local cuisine. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant serves vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free food with a focus on ingredients that are sustainable and organic. Carnivores will love the grass-fed bison burger, followed by a Double Brown Stout from Dallas brewery Deep Ellum."
Las Almas Rotas
Mexican restaurant · Deep Ellum
"Drinking Mexican beer or mezcal in the back bar here is a singular experience: A statue of St. Jude, the patron saint of desperation, watches over the room. The entire bar (the name means “the broken souls” in Spanish) is a shrine to Mexican culture. And the food—homemade tacos and salsas—and drinks are absolutely authentic. Get the El Topo, a combination of the mineral water Topo Chico, lime juice, and tequila. "
Double Wide Bar
Bar · Deep Ellum
"Inside this double-wide trailer you’ll find one of the strongest cocktails in the city. The deceptive vanilla-vodka-and-coffee-liqueur-spiked Yoohoo Yeehaw comes straight out of an old Slurpee machine, is topped with a Maraschino cherry, and tastes like a Tootsie Roll. Drink it on the patio, which is decorated with toilets that artfully overflow with plants, or on one of the couches inside. There’s also a small stage where DJs play vinyl and there’s fantastic live music. "
Round-Up Saloon
Gay night club · Turtle Creek
"A gay country-dance club where everyone is welcome, this is one of the best places to dance in Dallas, whether you’re in work clothes or drag. Early in the evening, there are very serious two-steppers on the floor, but the moment it’s 10:30 p.m., contemporary music comes on and the dance floor is flooded. "
Cross Faded Barbershop
Permanently Closed
"It’s hard to tell that behind this Deep Ellum three-chair barbershop business there’s a really fantastic bar. During the day, cuts and shaves come with a free beer. At night, down a winding hall, a large, dimly lit back-room bar offers Prohibition-era-inspired cocktails and a stage where local musicians play everything from country rock to rap. The off-menu special—a vaporized shot of vodka—is potent and, oh yes, worth trying. "
Lee Harvey's
Bar · Cedars
"Exactly what you want in a dive bar: nice bartenders mixing strong drinks, a jukebox, and a huge dog-friendly yard. There’s live music in the vein of Mumford and Sons on the weekends. And sitting by the fire pit in the fall is absolute heaven."
MUTTS Canine Cantina - Dallas
American restaurant · Cityplace
"The city’s first dog-park/restaurant mashup is absolutely packed on beautiful days—dogs can run off-leash in the one-acre park while owners hang out in the outdoor beer garden. The laid-back restaurant is popular in its own right: The menu focuses on burgers and hotdogs, and adorably, there are options for the canines, too."
The Grapevine Bar
Lounge · Stemmons Corridor
"There are many reasons to visit the Grapevine: potent Tangaritas (frozen margaritas mixed with Tang), pickup games on the basketball half court, and the rooftop with amazing views of the downtown skyline. The laid-back dive bar straddles a few neighborhoods, so it’s almost always busy with an interesting crowd—perfect for people watching."
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Science museum · West End Historic District
"Opened in late 2012, the new science museum is a must-see, not only for its stunning permanent exhibits and traveling shows but also for Thom Mayne’s groundbreaking sustainable building, which boasts a glass-enclosed staircase that cuts right through the structure. There is so much to see here that you might want to break it up into a couple of trips, but our favorite by far is the gems and minerals hall, which among other phenomena, includes an amazing five-foot geode. Plus, if you have little ones, the Children’s Museum alone is practically worth the day trip with all its requisite slides, crawl spaces, and sandpits."
Forty Five Ten
Boutique · Downtown
"Brian Bolke and his late partner, Shelly Musselman, revolutionized Dallas retail when they founded the original Forty Five Ten in 2000. Now no visit to the city is complete without spending a few hours getting happily lost in the latest iteration on downtown's Main Street. You’ll find everything from Proenza Schouler, Marni, and Delpozo to Kelly Wearstler home accessories and Diptyque candles under one spectacular roof. The beautifully renovated industrial-style dark-brick-and-glass building is also home to an amazing art collection—including works by Mario Testino and Bruce Weber, as well as Catherine Opie's 700 Nimes Road—plus an excellent rooftop restaurant with amazing views and an Assouline bookshop."
Forty Five Ten
Boutique · Downtown
"Brian Bolke and his late partner, Shelly Musselman, revolutionized Dallas retail when they founded the original Forty Five Ten in 2000. Now no visit to the city is complete without spending a few hours getting happily lost in the latest iteration on downtown's Main Street. You’ll find everything from Proenza Schouler, Marni, and Delpozo to Kelly Wearstler home accessories and Diptyque candles under one spectacular roof. The beautifully renovated industrial-style dark-brick-and-glass building is also home to an amazing art collection—including works by Mario Testino and Bruce Weber, as well as Catherine Opie's 700 Nimes Road—plus an excellent rooftop restaurant with amazing views and an Assouline bookshop."
Miron Crosby
Boot store · Knox/Henderson
"This is where to get cowboy boots. Handmade in a factory that’s been making custom boots for more than 150 years, these are the best. Full stop. The classic silhouette comes in three heights, and you can find classic stitching, metallic chili-pepper appliqués, cactus embroidery, an especially chic rock-and-roll constellation inspired by the West Texas sky—you name it. "
Dolly Python
Antique store · Freedman Town
"What you fall in love with when you wander into this vintage store meets flea market depends on the day: We’ve taken home a taxidermy mouse wearing a top hat, hand-painted ceramics from local musician Sarah Jaffe, and rare vinyl from Bucks Burnett’s meticulously organized booth. The selection of vintage clothes, arranged by decade, is fantastic. On the weekends, Nancy Lloyd gives disturbingly accurate tarot readings. "
The Greenway Shop
Permanently Closed
"Friends Hallie Lamont and Flauren Bender, who first met at a music class for their babies, turned their love of clean beauty products into a tightly edited shop inside of popular children’s boutique, Madre. Here, goop clean beauty shop favorites like Kypris, Shiva Rose, and Kosas line the shelves. For new mamas, there’s kid-friendly sunscreen and shampoo by Babo and body wash from Pai. "
S E T & C O.
Permanently Closed
"Husband and wife Jennifer and Adam Littke’s incredibly charming home and kitchen store is one of the best places in Dallas to find handmade ceramics, textiles, cookbooks, and more. The clean, modern pieces have a laid-back California vibe, and they make gorgeous gift boxes—you can choose a premade one or create your own—always tied beautifully with herbs. "
The Taschen Library
Book store · Downtown
"Just inside the art-filled lobby of the Joule hotel, this small library is lined wall-to-wall with gorgeous books from the German publisher. On the weekends, they host a delightfully unfussy afternoon tea (with champagne). While the books themselves are remarkable, the ceilings—tiled with mid-century mosaics by Millard Sheets that were salvaged from the wrecking ball in 2006—are spectacular, too. "
Proof + Pantry
Permanently Closed
"We like the way this New American gastropub thinks. And cooks. And mixes a drink. The menu is made for sharing and organized by bulk (big plates that feed a few folks), land, sea, soil, and sweets, making it easy to navigate between baked burrata and the ham tasting plate (though no easier to choose). The cocktails are categorized by proof: no (seasonal sodas), low (sherry and shrubs), and high (lots of gin, in the very best way). It’s all the better for knowing what kind of night you’re getting yourself into."
Credo Clean Beauty
Cosmetics store · Plano
"This beauty store stocks a huge assortment of skin care and makeup from some of our favorite brands (de Mamiel, Ilia, Kypris, and RMS Beauty to name a few) along with our own goop by Juice Beauty. Bring in your makeup bag, and the Credo team will help you find clean, cruelty-free replacements for everything. There’s also a Tata Harper spa that offers facials, waxing, makeup lessons, and more. "
Oddfellows
American restaurant · Bishop Arts District
"Oddfellows is a celebrated brunch institution in Dallas—on Saturdays, the wait for the duck chilaquiles and fried chicken is hours long. But stop by in the morning or afternoon during the week and you'll find a quiet coffeehouse, perfect for nursing a coffee and emptying out a full inbox (the Wi-Fi is just as strong outside on the patio). They're especially proud of their espresso, which is made in a gleaming, luxury La Marzocco machine. "
Opening Bell Coffee
Coffee shop · Cedars
"Every town needs an arty coffee shop with open mic night and free Wi-Fi—with eclectic décor, oversize couches, and great coffee, Opening Bell is straight out of central casting. While the extremely full entertainment calendar makes this more of a daytime study location, there are plenty of tables, so you can find a seat even late in the afternoon. You'll also find all the requisite snacks and drinks, including a long tea menu, doughnuts, and a weirdly good breakfast taco."
Bubba's Cooks Country - Dallas
Restaurant · Greenville Ave
"This is just like Grandma used to make—if your grandmother was from West Texas and happened to be famous for her fried chicken. Still in the same converted Texaco Station where it opened in 1981, Bubba’s (the big daddy of the Babe’s Chicken boutique chain) has a retro diner vibe that sets the perfect stage for a Southern comfort food feast with all the trimmings: green beans, mashed potatoes, and black-eyed peas. There's also a drive-through."
White Rock Coffee
Coffee shop · L Streets
"Run by Nancy and Bob Baker, White Rock Coffee is literally a mom-and-pop operation—there's nothing glamorous about this local spot, but the excellent coffee (roasted by Nancy and Bob themselves) and laid-back vibe make it a mainstay. While there's always a steady stream of customers, it never feels crowded, so it's a good place to get stuff done. The original Highlands Lake location has a spacious lofted space (that's where most of the outlets are), while the new express location has a drive-through if you don't have time to park."
Murray Street Coffee Shop
Coffee shop · Deep Ellum
"The décor choices here—an Oriental rug, couch/chair/coffee table seating vignettes, big wide garage-style windows—feel residential, which makes it a comfortable place for work. The coffee is pretty Goldilocks perfect (strong, but not too strong), though the real draw here are the sandwiches, served on olive-oil-toasted ciabatta. "
Dive Coastal Cuisine
Seafood restaurant · Greenville Ave
"You’ll find clean eats with a sunny disposition here. Chef Franchesca Nor keeps her fresh seafood-and-veggie-forward fare simple but never, ever boring at this bright and cheery lunch and dinner destination in Highland Park. The super casual, mid-century modern space is a great spot to go with friends and share a few salads, ceviches, and tartares. Or dig into a hearty wrap or sandwich all to yourself. Bonuses: It’s very kid-friendly and practically gluten-free."
Lucia
Italian restaurant · Bishop Arts District
"Plan ahead if you think you’ll want to snag one (or two) of the thirty-six seats at this Italian restaurant in the heart of Bishop Arts. But size isn’t the only thing that makes this one of the very toughest tables to snag in town: Chef David Uygur has had a hard-core following since his Lola days. Foodies flock to Lucia to get a bite of his house-cured salumi, creamy risottos, and Texas Wagyu short ribs. Discuss the deliciousness over milk chocolate and buttermilk panna cotta."
Avila's Mexican Restaurant
Tex-Mex restaurant · Oak Lawn
"We may have found the home of the chimichanga. With a menu that features a mix of old family recipes and local flavors, Avila’s is a must for authentic Tex-Mex. Tacos, tamales, and quesadillas will satisfy any hankerings for Mexican, but if you want to get into the local realness, then go for the chili relleno, chicken mole, and guisado de puerco (pork stewed in a rich pepper sauce) served with rice and beans. Just give in to the queso and order extra chips. This is one hole in the wall you won’t want to miss."
Maple & Motor
Hamburger restaurant · Oak Lawn
"For anyone who thought that fried baloney sandwiches were pure fiction, this roadside pit stop—where they are served either with mayo, lettuce, and tomato or “cowboy-style” with chili, cheese, and chopped onion—will be a revelation. For everyone else, there are flat-top brisket sandwiches, grilled cheese, BLTs, and quite possibly the best burger in town (but in a town like this, we know these are fighting words)."
Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ
Barbecue restaurant · Bishop Arts District
"Get in while the getting is good at this Central Texas–style smokehouse: When the day’s brisket, pork chops, chicken, and sausages run out, that’s that. If you’re not sure what to order, don’t be shy—ask for a sample. Meat is sliced to order and handed over wrapped in butcher paper, and the pickles, onions, bread, and crackers flow freely. Round out your Big Tex–worthy meal with blue cheese slaw, baked beans, and extra extra creamy mac ’n’ cheese. "
Le Bilboquet
French restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"This classic French bistro is wonderfully familiar (probably because it’s exactly like the original in New York). You’ll find the same classics, like chicken paillard, steak frites, and saffron-infused mussels—it’s both reassuring and delicious, though the crowd is what makes it fun."
Tei-An
Japanese restaurant · Arts District
"This sleek, minimalist destination inside One Arts Plaza is best known for its noodle dishes: hand-cut buckwheat soba served cold with dipping sauces, tonkatsu ramen served in a thick and hearty broth, and bowls of piping-hot udon loaded with Japanese mountain vegetables of the season. Explore the daily specials or leave the meal in the hands of chef Teiichi Sakurai, who will take you on an all-out trip through the best seasonal flavors Japanese cuisine has to offer from the land and the sea. In short, the omakase is worth the splurge."
rise
French restaurant · Devonshire
"There’s something pretty charming about this Francophile restaurant located in Inwood Village. As its name suggests, the specialty here is the soufflé, which they’ve totally mastered in all its forms, both savory and sweet. Each comes prettily plated on traditional French dishware, making it the kind of fanciful place you might take your daughter for a special treat. If you’re just along for the ride and not a huge fan of the dish, there are plenty of healthier, equally French-inflected options to choose from. "
Shinsei Restaurant
Pan-Asian restaurant · Devonshire
"While the menu at Shinsei might be a little offputting with its pan-Asian ambition—it offers not only Japanese sushi but also some Korean BBQ dishes along with plenty of Chinese-American options—the truth is the food is well, great. It’s no surprise, though, as the owners are Lynae Fearing and Tracy Rathbun, the wives of two of Dallas’s most established chefs. We tend to opt for the sushi and tempura dishes and find ourselves enjoying the Dallas-style innovations, including using jalapeño as an ingredient in the rolls. The gorgeous interiors—mid-century Swedish gone to Japan—are a plus. "
FT33
Permanently Closed
"Matt McCallister is probably Dallas’s most talked-about chef, and with good reason: The food served at FT33 comes in the guise of modernist cuisine—it’s no surprise he’s cut his teeth at both Alinea and Daniel—but is still rooted in local, seasonal ingredients that he crafts into homey, relatable food. In other words, don’t be fooled by the super polished plating, the sleek Nordic-style restaurant interiors, and the seriousness of the seven-course tasting menu: It’s all delicious."
Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck
Permanently Closed
"Spot the landmark 560-foot building with the glowing ball illuminating the Dallas skyline and you’ll have found Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck. The celebrity chef’s pan-Asian restaurant and lounge on the tippy-top floor of Reunion Tower marks his first fine-dining destination in the city. Come sundown, tuck into crispy lobster and shrimp spring rolls as you take in the 360-degree view."
Gemma
New American restaurant · Dallas
"Owners (and lovebirds!) Allison Yoder and Stephen Rogers brought their passion for friendly fine food and wine with them when they left their posts running Press—one of Napa Valley’s must-go dining destinations—to return to Rogers’s hometown. They poured it all into Gemma and opened the restaurant earlier this year. Always expertly executed but never too fussy, the menu covers a lot of ground, from crudos to duck confit with fried rice, so come late when reservations loosen up and the $2 oysters make an appearance."
CBD Provisions
American restaurant · Downtown
"This gem at the Joule does far more than serve the hotel's own guests with a tight, well-edited menu of exactly what we all want at every meal: In the morning, it’s the frittata; at lunch, it’s a healthy quinoa bowl; and at dinner, it’s pretty much anything that can be served with a side of their award-winning fries. Beyond feeding the hotel’s guests—and from very early in the morning until very late—it stands as one the best casual dining destinations in Dallas. "
Nonna
Italian restaurant · Oak Lawn
"Luckily it’s not on Mars, but even if it were, fans of chef Julian Barsotti’s trattoria would tell you it’s worth the trip. Tucked away in a nondescript Highland Park strip mall (which locals will describe as “across from Whole Foods”), the upscale Italian joint is one of the city’s most beloved destinations for salumi, perfectly crisp thin-crust pizzas, and classic bolognese, with a terrific wine list to round out the meal. "
Pecan Lodge
Barbecue restaurant · Deep Ellum
"The wait can be a long one, especially because Pecan Lodge sticks to a schedule that’s dictated by meat quantities. In other words, if they run out of meat in their on-site smoke pit that day, you won’t be enjoying Dallas’s best BBQ. We were, however, lucky enough to get our hands on their world-renowned brisket, and it was perfectly smoked, absolutely decadent, huge, and totally delicious. The ribs are equally insane."
Drip Coffee
Coffee shop · Cityplace
"The interior of Drip Coffee is really well laid out for work, with a slew of compact tables set up in rows just begging for a laptop or stack of books. The owner is a coffee-industry veteran who roasts the beans himself in small batches; devotees buy the beans in big batches."
Cultivar Coffee Roasting Co.
Coffee shop · Casa View
"This coffee bar shares a space with the taco joint Good 2 Go Taco, which means they have unusually good food options for a working coffee spot. Both the tacos and the espressos are neighborhood favorites, so you’ll want to arrive early to snag seating."
Four Day Weekend- Dallas
Comedy club · Belmont
"Honestly, Weekend Coffee's retro graphic identity and associated swag are reason enough to visit (that, and the fact that it's located in the goop-favorite Joule Hotel), but the cold coffee here is some of the best in Dallas. It's a pretty tiny operation and seating is limited, but those who arrive early enough are rewarded with seats in leather chairs overlooking the room. "
Martinengo Carla
Women's clothing store · Preston Center
"At first glance, this looks like it’s solely devoted to eveningwear—and eveningwear is its mainstay. But these aren’t your average cocktail dresses: Mary Katrantzou, Chloé, and Balenciaga all line the racks, along with Pierre Hardy shoes and a smattering of jewels."
Highland Park Village
Shopping mall · Knox/Henderson
"Occupying a sprawling corner of one of Dallas’s busiest thoroughfares, Highland Park Village has been reigning supreme over the Dallas shopping scape since the '30s—in fact, it was the country’s first shopping center and gained historic landmark status because of that. It also has to be one of the country’s fanciest: Stella McCartney, Hermeès, Harry Winston, Tom Ford, and Chanel all have outposts here. (It is also home to the goop pop.)"
Ylang 23
Jewelry store · Preston Center
"Ylang 23 offers an encyclopedia’s worth of jewelry designers (its website is one of the better sources online). Whether it’s tiny stack rings from Jennifer Meyer or opal-bedecked earrings from Nak Armstrong, there is something for every price point."
Neiman Marcus
Clothing store · Vickery Meadows
"Neiman’s was born in Dallas, and no trip to Texas is complete without a visit to the mother ship (there’s the original downtown and a bigger outpost in Northpark). Here, you’ll experience the sort of service that Stanley Marcus described in his epic book, Minding the Store, which is a must-read for anyone who loves retail. But we digress: The shoe department here is particularly epic, and dressed models still roam the floors, making it a wonderfully old-world experience."
Forestwood Antique Mall & Garden Tea Room
Antique store · Preston Hollow
"In a state known for its antique fairs, you’re bound to stumble across great vintage troves, this one being one of the very best. As its name suggests, it’s an antique mall, not a shop, and you should expect to spend some time. You’ll find everything from Murano glass chandeliers to Art Deco dining tables to Chinese lacquered everything. Bonus: They ship everywhere."
The Restaurant at Grange Hall
Restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"Grange Hall, with its gothic, cabinet-of-curiosities vibe, is the yin to Dallas’s glitzier yang. There’s a pretty gorgeous range of home goods—Ted Muehling candlesticks, Astier de Villate ceramics, Cire Trudon candles—along with really stunning jewelry. They just opened an on-site café, too, that serves artfully arranged food and an encyclopedia's worth of teas. This is inarguably one of Dallas’s very best stores."
The Restaurant at Grange Hall
Restaurant · Knox/Henderson
"Grange Hall, with its gothic, cabinet-of-curiosities vibe, is the yin to Dallas’s glitzier yang. There’s a pretty gorgeous range of home goods—Ted Muehling candlesticks, Astier de Villate ceramics, Cire Trudon candles—along with really stunning jewelry. They just opened an on-site café, too, that serves artfully arranged food and an encyclopedia's worth of teas. This is inarguably one of Dallas’s very best stores."
Studio Sebastian
Women's clothing store · Greenville Ave
"Operating out of the same airy corner space since 2000 (the business dates back to 1997), husband and wife Sebastian and Kobie Ahmadi have been showing prominent international designers from Tom Ford to Matthew Williamson in their beautifully appointed, whitewashed showroom. They are often the first to get new and interesting labels (particularly since Barneys shuttered its doors in Dallas), including Paul Andrews."
Taco Cabana
Taco restaurant · Northwest Dallas
"This store was once literally housed in a cabana on owner Merry Vose's property. However, when her covert, by-appointment operation was shut down by the city, she took her fan base to Lovers Lane. It's equally easy to miss there, which only adds to the allure and sense of discovery upon spotting the unmarked lavender door. The same mix of pretty, affordable labels—MiH, Monrow, Steven Alan, Nili Lotan—abounds. Vose has since opened a bigger sister store, Canary."
V.O.D.
Boutique · International Center
"Shop owners Jackie Bolin and Liz Thompson were the first to bring a new breed of understated labels to Dallas (and quite possibly to Texas as a whole)—for one, they’re known for their Isabel Marant buy. But they also stock Alexander Wang, Acne, Thierry Lasry, Coqui Coqui candles, and a trove of vintage in collaboration with Archive in Austin. You’ll find Chanel, YSL, Dior, and Hermès."
CANARY
Clothing store · Bluffview
"Merry Vose’s Cabana is a siren song in Dallas for all the women who love pretty, easily wearable labels, and so in response, she opened up Canary—a bigger, splashier store just down the street. The space is equally homey and filled with a mix of lesser-known finds like Christian Wijnants, SEA New York, and Each x Other."
Dallas Museum of Art
Art museum · City Center District
"The permanent art collection here cannot be dismissed: There are Monets, Manets, and Rauschenbergs, plus one of the largest Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections in the country. But all that said, the museum’s design and local crafts holdings from around the world are just as impressive, from pre-Columbian artifacts to African masks and ceremonial attire to Eero Saarinen’s Tulip Chair. Admission is free. Photo courtesy of the Dallas Museum of Art. "
Nasher Sculpture Center
Museum · City Center District
"Adjacent to the Dallas Museum of Art and open to the public since 2003, this private collection, owned by the Nasher family, is one of the most stunning in the world, including works by everyone from Auguste Rodin and Paul Gauguin to Richard Serra, Ellsworth Kelly, and Tony Smith. The grounds match the work with a sprawling garden by Peter Walker and a glass Renzo Piano pavilion that barely interrupts the landscape. And not to be missed (from May until October): The Nasher hosts the ’til Midnight program, staying open late for film screenings and outdoor concerts. "
Midnight Rambler
Bar · Downtown
"The Joule’s subterranean mixology bar is somewhere between hipster and Texas classic, serving up some serious old-school cocktails with a twist, in a glam setting concocted by the gang behind the store Tenoversix (which also has a concession in the hotel). Green marble cocktail tables, brass bar stools and accessories, and a walnut ceiling are elegant enough for the Texas environs, while the cocktails—with names like Sister Cel-Ray and Savory Hunter—have a bit more bite. "
Deep Ellum Brewing Company
Permanently Closed
"We’ve developed a soft spot for Deep Ellum’s local, craft-brewed beers that you’ll find in a lot of the hipper eateries across Dallas. If anything, it’s fun to see a couple of twenty- and thirtysomethings make a successful business out of a passion project. If you’re in town with a beer connoisseur, the weekly brewery tours and open house are absolutely worthwhile. "
The Gallery Lounge
Bar · Convention Center District
"This rooftop bar at the NYLO—the latest in a crop of younger, hipper hotels—offers spectacular views of the city’s South Side. Come for sunset drinks by the pool or at the bar, take in the Dallas skyline, and make a meal of it, too, thanks to a menu of substantial snacks—hot dogs, tacos, salads, and the like. "
Cedars Social
Tex-Mex restaurant
"While the menu of decadent foods like crisp pork belly tacos, queso fundido, and grilled rib eye is a definite plus, the real draw to this retro-themed bar is the extensive drinks menu, care of mixologist Leann Berry. The plush seating and ’70s lounge chairs make this bar even harder to leave—especially true when you’ve made the journey out to this part of town, as it’s a little off the beaten track. "