If you’re a young adult in Dallas—or just young at heart—you already know the city’s food scene has everything from hidden gems to big-name spots that keep everyone talking. But where do you start when you want to make the most of Big D’s delicious diversity? Whether you're on the hunt for late-night tacos or need a spot with the perfect photo-op, these ten Dallas restaurants have you covered!
Having lived in Dallas since graduating college in 2020, I've experienced my fair-share of the delicious cuisine that Dallas has to offer. My wife, Rachel, and I are frequent restaurant-goers so allow me to introduce you to the local favorites. Friday and Saturday nights are typically spent perusing a collection of our nearby regular spots and venturing abroad to the finer dining Dallas has to offer.
Featured below are my personal favorites and go-to spots. If you're looking for something a little stronger - subscribe to www.vinnyhale.com to see my favorite cocktail bars and hangout spots, coming out soon!
Location: Lower Greenville
Vibe: Cozy, jazz-infused, and effortlessly romantic.
The Lowdown: Terilli's has been a Lower Greenville staple since the 1980s, known for its “Italian with a twist” approach and lively atmosphere. This charming spot combines classic Italian fare with a Texas flair, featuring signature dishes like “Italchos” (Italian nachos) that keep people coming back for more. The dim lighting and live jazz music (shoutout to piano man featured below) create an intimate, sophisticated setting that’s perfect for date nights or celebrating with friends. To top it off, Terilli’s rooftop bar offers a fantastic view of the Dallas skyline, making it an unforgettable destination for a night out. Rachel and I personally enjoy this one for all of our special occasions.
Chelsea Corner
Location: Knox-Henderson
Vibe: Lively, vintage-cool, and neighborly.
The Lowdown: Chelsea Corner is a true Dallas classic that first opened in 1974 and has been revitalized into a modern neighborhood hangout. The restaurant combines nostalgic charm with a casual, inviting atmosphere, where patrons can enjoy everything from brunch to late-night bites. Its menu is packed with elevated comfort food, like their famous Chelsea burger and truffle mac and cheese, alongside a great selection of craft cocktails. The spacious patio—complete with a cozy fireplace and games like cornhole—creates a relaxed, social setting ideal for catching up with friends or unwinding after a busy day. My personal favorites being the buffalo chicken dip and the pool table hidden next to the bar in the back. Beware of college football gamedays and weekend night life, as this bar is frequented by local university students who are sure to ~enhance~ the atmosphere through their entertaining behavior.
Truck Yard
Location: Lower Greenville
Vibe: Fun, casual, and Instagram-ready.
The Lowdown: Imagine an outdoor playground, only with food trucks, live music, and retro decor. That’s Truck Yard! It’s the perfect spot for chilling with friends, enjoying gourmet food truck eats, and grabbing a craft beer in an eclectic setting. Don’t miss the Philly cheesesteaks that are big enough to last you a week! Anytime the weather dips below 70 degrees, Rachel and I are out the door and on our way to bask in the sun, enjoy a cocktail, and listen to some live music - plus dogs are allowed.
Katy Trail Ice House
Location: Uptown, right off the Katy Trail
Vibe: Outdoor beer garden meets laid-back Texas roadhouse.
The Lowdown: Katy Trail Ice House is the ultimate casual hangout for locals, conveniently set along the popular Katy Trail. Known for its sprawling patio and Texas-sized drinks, this spot is all about outdoor fun and socializing. It’s the place to go for cold beers, margaritas, and Texas BBQ classics like brisket sandwiches and loaded nachos (although my personal favorite is the cheeseburger...with a side of ranch). The laid-back, dog-friendly patio makes it perfect for an afternoon with friends (and pups), especially when the weather’s nice. It’s always bustling, and on weekends, it’s packed with trail-goers stopping by to refuel, giving it a festive and upbeat vibe every time.
The Charles
Location: Dallas Design District
Vibe: Bold, glamorous, and Italian with a modern twist.
The Lowdown: The Charles is a show-stopper, combining Italian-inspired cuisine with Dallas flair. This upscale eatery is known for its striking decor, featuring dark wood, luxurious velvet, and eye-catching art, creating a moody and elegant atmosphere. The menu is full of inventive Italian dishes, from house-made pastas to wood-fired meats, with seasonal ingredients that make every dish feel special. The cocktails are as artful as the decor, making The Charles a top choice for both romantic dinners and special gatherings. It’s a feast for the senses in every way and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Dallas’s high-end dining scene.
Pro-tip: When you're done with dinner, ask your waiter for an invite to the after-party and they'll walk you through the kitchen to a high-end, yet quaint speakeasy/cocktail bar in the back.
Las Palmas
Location: Knox-Henderson/Uptown
Vibe: Vintage tropical meets modern chic.
The Lowdown: A lowkey celebrity hotspot - Las Palmas brings a touch of old Hollywood glamour to Dallas with a Mexican twist. The restaurant’s interior is filled with lush greenery, warm tones, and retro touches, giving it a relaxed yet upscale vibe that feels like a tropical escape. The menu puts a refined spin on Mexican classics, featuring dishes like elevated enchiladas, flavorful ceviche, and unique small plates, all bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Their margaritas and craft cocktails are also a highlight, perfect for sipping on the gorgeous patio. Las Palmas is an ideal spot for everything from casual get-togethers to stylish nights out, capturing a classic, stylish charm with a Dallas flair.
Sixty Vines
Location: Uptown Dallas, TX
Vibe: Airy, Napa Valley-inspired, and effortlessly stylish.
The Lowdown: Sixty Vines brings a slice of California wine country to Dallas with its open, vineyard-themed atmosphere and focus on sustainability. The space is bright and inviting, featuring greenery, rustic wood accents, and long communal tables that make it perfect for socializing. The highlight here is the innovative “wine on tap” system, which offers an impressive selection of wines by the glass, making it easy to try new varieties without committing to a full bottle. The menu is designed for pairing, featuring fresh, seasonal dishes like wood-fired pizzas, shareable small plates, and vibrant salads. Sixty Vines is ideal for brunch with friends, a casual dinner, or a relaxed evening sipping wine in a chic setting.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
Location: Uptown Dallas, TX (with other locations across the metroplex)
Vibe: Classic steakhouse elegance meets modern sophistication.
The Lowdown: Perry’s Steakhouse offers an upscale dining experience perfect for special occasions, business dinners, or a stylish night out. Known for its luxurious, moody ambiance with dark wood, soft lighting, and sophisticated decor, Perry's has mastered the art of blending traditional steakhouse charm with a contemporary feel. The menu is centered on high-quality steaks and signature cuts, with their famous seven-finger-high pork chop as a standout dish. Extensive wine and cocktail options elevate the experience, and the attentive service adds to the restaurant’s premium atmosphere. With live jazz music on certain nights, Perry’s delivers a classic yet vibrant dining experience that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
Hudson House
Location: Highland Park, Dallas, TX (additional location in Lovers Lane)
Vibe: Coastal-chic, casual yet refined.
The Lowdown: Hudson House brings a slice of East Coast charm to Dallas with its New England-inspired decor and seafood-focused menu. This lively spot combines a casual, welcoming atmosphere with a touch of elegance—think cozy booths, nautical accents, and a marble-topped bar that feels straight out of a Hamptons eatery. Known for fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and their signature cheeseburger, Hudson House excels at blending classic coastal dishes with Texas flair. The cocktail menu is equally impressive, with martinis that pair perfectly with the seafood fare. Whether for brunch, happy hour, or dinner, Hudson House is a go-to for those seeking laid-back luxury and a taste of the coast in Dallas.
Gemma
Location: Knox-Henderson, Dallas, TX
Vibe: Cozy, intimate, and effortlessly stylish.
The Lowdown: Gemma is a beloved neighborhood gem offering a refined yet unpretentious dining experience. With its warm, inviting decor featuring cozy banquettes, eclectic artwork, and a soft color palette, Gemma feels both upscale and welcoming, perfect for date nights or celebratory dinners. The menu showcases seasonal New American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and inventive flavor combinations. Signature dishes like the ricotta cavatelli and crispy duck wings are complemented by an impressive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails. Known for its attentive service and relaxed elegance, Gemma is a standout choice for a thoughtful and delicious meal in Dallas.
Honorable Mention:
Wrap-Up: Dallas is a foodie paradise, and with so many unique spots, you’ll never run out of options. So next time you’re craving something new and fun, grab some friends and hit up one of these top spots. You’ll get great food, a fun atmosphere, and memories that’ll keep you coming back for more. Enjoy!
Vinny Hale
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