Take A Walk Around Ferris Wheelers, Dallas’ New Playground For Grown-Ups

On Monday, Ferris Wheelers Backyard & BBQ finally made its debut as the newest barbecue joint in the piping-hot Dallas Design District.

Ferris Wheelers occupies a relatively small building at 1950 Market Center Boulevard that belies the massive outdoor patio that awaits in the back. Indoors, the dining room has been decorated with vintage metal signs and Texas memorabilia, giving it the feel of an old-school barbecue joint. There’s plenty of indoor seating for small groups, but the real appeal of Ferris Wheelers is in the giant space outdoors.

On the patio, an open-air bar serves up fresh, cheekily-named cocktails and large counter-height tables and picnic tables offer plenty of seating options for larger crowds. In addition to the 50-foot-tall Ferris wheel that serves as a focal point for the patio area, bar games like giant Jenga and cornhole are set up in the back for a little booze-fueled competition.

The new restaurant features barbecue from pitmaster Doug Pickering, who borrowed from a number of regional styles to create the menu of smoked meats at Ferris Wheelers. Classic Texas brisket is, of course, a major player on the menu, but less-common proteins, like a honey-smoked turkey breast and Carolina-style pulled pork round out the meaty offerings. Order up a half-pound on a plate, or enjoy all of the meats piled together into a hearty sandwich.

Ferris Wheelers is now open, starting at 11 a.m. on the weekdays. The outdoor space, known as the Backyard, opens at 3 p.m. and stays open late. Before heading to the Design District for a plate of meat and a ride on the Ferris wheel, take a virtual walk around the restaurant.

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