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The 38 Essential Dallas Restaurants, Spring 2023

Simply the best restaurants in the Metroplex

by Courtney E. Smith Updated
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by Courtney E. Smith Updated

The Dallas-Fort Worth is a sprawling Metroplex of 9,286 square miles. And in that land mass, there are a lot of great restaurants. This list aims to guide visitors and locals alike to great new locations, up-and-coming eateries, and established restaurants at the top of the food game, all at various price points and featuring the numerous cuisines that shine in DFW.

Eater Dallas’s list of the 38 Essential Restaurants in fair North Texas is updated quarterly. This fall’s update sees a nearly complete overhaul, ushering in a fresh list of places to go and delights to taste. The latest updates see new additions in sushi, with Tatsu and Namo entering the list, pizza from Mister O1 and Pie Tap Pizza Workshop + Bar, Taco Y Vino, arguably the city’s hottest restaurant since it opened, El Carlos Elegante, and the return of TJ’s Seafood Market, Anise, and Nonna.

Call ahead to ensure each restaurant is open and for updates on current offerings, as these things change constantly. Wear a mask when required, tip well, and try to order directly from the restaurants if you’re ordering delivery.

Check out the Eater Dallas Heatmap for the newest restaurant openings any given month.

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Ari Korean BBQ

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The fun of Korean barbecue is all in cooking it yourself. But the craft of it is in the meat the restaurant uses. Ari Korean BBQ has locations in Carrollton and Plano, both worth traveling to eat at, and has some of the best cuts around. Try the bulgogi, marinated short rib, and thin-sliced prime brisket. And in Carrollton, there’s a new upstairs lounge with cocktails and DJs.

2625 Old Denton Rd #800, Carrollton, TX 75007
(469) 892-2166
(469) 892-2166

Kirin Court

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Dim sum in this Richardson Chinese restaurant is served on pushcarts, from which the diner can select from 45 dishes. Go with what looks and smells the most delicious on any given day. That might be old favorites such as fried pork spring rolls and soup dumplings, or it might be time to taste the shrimp paste stuffed eggplant and pork and preserved egg congee makes that list. Bring enough friends to fill a big banquet table or share your table with strangers, but don’t feel like you need to stop with dim sum. Chinese mains, from Mongolian beef to Kung Pao chicken, are also available.

221 W Polk St #200, Richardson, TX 75081
(214) 575-8888
(214) 575-8888

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Roots Southern Table

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At chef Tiffany Derry’s restaurant, prepare to be tempted by the cast iron cornbread and pimento cheese toast, staples in any Southern kitchen. Then, dive into some inventive main courses, like jerk lamb chops and the Texas redfish prepared with harissa. Crafty Texans know they should finish with a piece of German chocolate cake. 

13050 Bee St Suit 160, Farmers Branch, TX 75234
(214) 346-4441
(214) 346-4441

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Mike's Chicken

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Some days just call for excellent fried chicken. Mike’s, at it’s original location near Oak Lawn or at the new North Dallas location, always delivers. The crust is crispy and the biscuits are flaky — and while that’s all great, Mike’s lands on this list because it is kind enough to offer a plethora of dipping sauces for every kind of preference and because the mac and cheese is chef’s kiss perfect.

7752 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230
(214) 377-9692
(214) 377-9692

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TJ's Seafood Market & Grill Preston Royal

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It’s hard to beat a lobster roll from TJ’s. Matter of fact, it’s hard to be any seafood from TJ’s. Order its fantastic crab cakes, fish tacos, warm lobster dip, or the almond-crusted cod, which is newly added to the permanent menu. Or place your order at the counter to go and add some surf to your turf barbecue this spring and summer.

6025 Royal Ln #110, Dallas, TX 75230
(214) 691-2369
(214) 691-2369

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Rex's Seafood and Market

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No matter the season, Rex’s Seafood and Market has what diners crave — and has it so fresh they can buy right out of the case. If grilled salmon, fresh oysters, blackened redfish, or tucking into a plate of hot fish and chips sounds good, Rex’s is the move.

6713 W Northwest Hwy, Dallas, TX 75225
(214) 758-0566
(214) 758-0566

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Jia Modern Chinese

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In the Park Cities, find Chinese food with Szechwan influence at Jia, plus sushi and a touch of Thai. It’s cloth napkin fancy, but owner Jia Huang wants guests to hang around awhile, so the hospitality is front and center. The menu is small and curated without being Americanized. Try out the Chinese Garden Feast, a vegetarian meal made with yams, black mushrooms, snow peas, celery, and lotus root or the crispy beef. The chicken lettuce wraps are also worth raving about.

8411 Preston Rd Ste 132, Dallas, TX 75225
(214) 888-0155
(214) 888-0155

Meridian

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The best new restaurant of 2021 remains one of the top dining destinations in the city. Chef Junior Borges has only gotten better since this modern Brazilian destination opened. Borges has made some changes to the menu, opting for a prix fixe menu to put fine dining within reach, which allows customers to pick four dishes for a set price. The wine pairing to go with it is reasonable and worth opting into. And there’s a bar menu, which includes the X-Tudo burger, a delicious, oniony, cheesy meal available in limited amounts daily.

5650 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 659-6382
(469) 659-6382

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Anise

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Anise has a new chef, as Tony Ibarra takes over the reins of it and La Mina in the Village. And he’s been making the menu his own and revamping the kitchen. Some longtime favorites at the Mediterranean restaurant will stay, like the bacalao (cod) fritters and the crispy octopus. But there are a lot of new flourishes from Ibarra on the menu that make it worth revisiting.

5630 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 659-6376
(469) 659-6376

Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House

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While the Bourdain burger, a simple double patty smash burger, and the Frito pie might be predictable orders at this neighborhood burger joint, they’re part of the always reliable, always delicious menu that keeps folks coming back. The other secret ingredient at Goodfriend in East Dallas is the atmosphere: it feels good to be here.

1154 Peavy Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 324-3335
(214) 324-3335

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Sadelle's Highland Park

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When is brunch not just brunch? When it’s the experience Sadelle’s Highland Park provides. For most of us, this is a real treat yo’ self spot with soft interiors and a bagel tower option that will make diners feel like they aren’t just having brunch, but have conquered a small country and brunch is the reward. Go back and try every iteration of the eggs Benedict as well, because its worth it.

1 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205
(469) 290-6009
(469) 290-6009

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Knox Bistro

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Wondering where to brunch? Keep Knox Bistro in mind, and get a sticky pecan bun for the table. French fare, from the Croque Madame to the French omelet with Boursin to the perennial favorite of hanger steak with eggs and pommes frites, will delight. This is also a nice lunch and dinner spot, but brunch is where the bistro mood fires on all cylinders. 

3230 Knox St #140, Dallas, TX 75205
(469) 250-4007
(469) 250-4007

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Sister Restaurant

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A little Italian, a little Mediterranean, a lot of great design and delicious food — that’s Sister in a nutshell. Pop into this Greenville Ave. location one evening and try the branzino, the Moroccan spiced chicken, and the olive oil cake. Then linger over one of the signature cocktails, either in the big, comfy booths or sitting on the patio out front. That’s the whole point of a restaurant with a neighborhood vibe: eating great food and checking out the neighborhood.

2808 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 888-8660
(214) 888-8660

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Sachet

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Trying everything on the Spanish gin and tonic menu is reason enough to visit Sachet on Oak Lawn. But this Mediterranean restaurant from co-owners Allison Yoder and Stephen Rogers is so much more than a great wine and cocktail menu. It’s easy to make a meal of small plates, from green fava falafel to mushrooms cooked in a wood-fired oven with bean puree. But the entrees, especially the lamb chop duo, are symphonic. 

4270 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 613-6425
(214) 613-6425

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Nonna

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If someone asks where to eat Italian in DFW, the immediate answer is Nonna. Julian Barsotti owns several restaurants around town, including the newly rechristened Barsotti’s, but this remains his best. It’s elevated food with a neighborhood feel, intentionally brings Texas flavors into Italian tradition, and remains serious about quality. 

4115 Lomo Alto Dr, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 521-1800
(214) 521-1800

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Carte Blanche

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Carte Blanche opened and immediately took the Dallas dining scene by storm. It offers a tasting menu put together daily based on availability of ingredients, so whichever option you choose, you’re putting your taste buds in the capable hands of the staff. It’s a journey worth taking. But, if that’s not for you, the bakery items are also a phenomenal weekend treat.

2114 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 434-1538
(214) 434-1538

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Neighborhood Services

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Winter is as good a time as any to tuck into some comfort food, and for lunch or dinner get a little of what sounds good in American and European fare. Wedge salad? Of course. Steak frites? Got it. Personal pizza with crispy pepperoni cups? Naturally. Schnitzel? Why not.

3848 Oak Lawn Ave Ste 210, Dallas, TX 75219
(972) 803-5563
(972) 803-5563

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Jalisco Norte

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For those in search of authentic Mexican food, it’s hard to beat the classics at this spot. The pollo con mole, carne asada with molcajete sauce, and beef short ribs served birria-style are all home runs.

3858 Oak Lawn Ave #470, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 443-5183
(214) 443-5183

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Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza Turtle Creek

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There’s no pie in Dallas quite like the star pizza. Since Mister O1 dropped on the scene, it’s been one of the most distinctive pizzas in town, made with some of the best ingredients. Visit for a thin pie, or try the star pizza with its ricotta-stuffed crust. It’s one perfectly sized plate of pizza delight.

3838 Oak Lawn Ave suite p175, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 432-4434
(214) 432-4434

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Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen

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Soups with rich broth and delicious noodles. Shaking tofu rice. Rice paper rolls. Vietnamese coffee. Sangria with a kick of Hennessey. These are a few delights waiting in Nong Vietnamese Kitchen on Lowest Greenville. Owner Carol Nguyen named the place for her mother and intends to introduce Dallasites to the best of Vietnam. 

1907 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 250-7183
(469) 250-7183

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Rye

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Rye has been making big moves since it opened, pushing the boundaries of creative fare. Recently, the restaurant announced a program to add 3% to the bill, not as a cost of product increase but to offer the staff benefits, including healthcare. It deserves a lot of support. So stopy by and order the pork belly lollipops and the Icelandic hot dog, the latter of which does a bang-up job of recreating the flavors of a street food dish with elevated ingredients. The vegan chile relleno is also well executed.

1920 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(972) 803-3391
(972) 803-3391

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Thunderbird Pies

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Over the glut of thin crust pizza sweeping the city? It’s time to indulge in the Detroit pizza craze. The thick, moist crust with crispy burnt cheese edges on this Lakewood spot’s pizzas is another side of enjoying a pizza. Brought to you by the folks behind Cane Rosso, it shares some menu options — so get the Honey Bastard with hot soppressata, bacon marmalade, and habanero honey on a very fluffy crust. There are also options with pineapple for those who swing that way and straight veg for the non-meat eaters. 

7328 Gaston Ave #110, Dallas, TX 75214
(469) 577-1077
(469) 577-1077

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Namo

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Namo in the West Village sources most of its products from Japan, encompassing sushi, sake, and whiskies — and they’re excellent. But the warm vibes of the tiny sushi bar inside make it memorable. It feels unpretentious and cozy and is built in a way that guarantees the crowds are small (it holds 12) and that eating is a shared experience. Drop by for its special events, including a weekly omakase service. 

3699 McKinney Ave #305, Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 484-5151
(214) 484-5151

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The Mansion Restaurant

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Step into old school Dallas with a night at the Rosewood Mansion restaurant or bar. The Mansion has a new chef and new head of its bar program, so a lot of changes are happening on the menu — while some long-standing favorites (yes, we mean the tortilla soup) remain. One luxurious must-order is the charred octopus with pepita pesto and cilantro — it’s a perfect bite.

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 443-4747
(214) 443-4747

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Pie Tap Pizza Workshop + Bar

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Pie Tap may have one of DFW’s most underrated pies. The light crust is made with wheat flowers, wheat germ, olive oil, water, and salt. That’s it. It keeps the pies simple, with classic flavors and an Americanized barbecue chicken pizza. And it maximizes the pie by offering “dipping bones” sauces to stick pizza crusts in. It also offers pasta, salads, sandwiches, and lollipop chicken wings that are killer. 

1212 Oak Lawn Ave #131, Dallas, TX 75207
(469) 677-0997
(469) 677-0997

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El Carlos Elegante

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A night at El Carlos is well spent eating Latin American-inspired dishes. Like all its restaurants, this one from Duro Hospitality isn’t exactly Mexican or South American; it’s Latin-ish. The company’s chefs worked together, going on exploratory trips around Latin America to develop dishes drawing inspiration from Indigenous cultures, Mexico City street foods, and more. Pro-tip: tell the server your budget and if you have any preferences, and let them curate your plates and drinks. They’re well-trained and fully capable.

1400 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 277-1800
(214) 277-1800

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Ellie's Restaurant & Lounge

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This fall, Ellie’s in the Hall Arts Hotel got a new chef. Anthony Hsia is working wonders with the menu, bringing innovative cuisine to the Napa-inspired spot with notes of Scandinavia, Asia, and Middle Eastern cuisine — still all rooted in pairings with great California wines and a Napa-esque dining experience.

1717 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201
(972) 629-0924
(972) 629-0924

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Tatsu Dallas

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Chef Tatsu is a master of simple treatments of nigiri that highlight both the quality of the fish (almost everything he serves is flown in from Japan) and his culinary skill as a sushi chef. The small dining room at this restaurant makes it challenging to land a reservation, but it’s worth the effort. And worth the price tag to enjoy an omakase service here.

3309 Elm St ste 120, Dallas, TX 75226
(469) 271-7710
(469) 271-7710

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AllGood Cafe

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Visit a piece of Deep Ellum history and see some live music while you’re at it. Dallasites of a certain age know that not only is this a great spot to get a chicken fried steak smothered in gravy, but it’s home to a wonderful community that’s seen the neighborhood, and the local music scene, through 20 years of history.

2934 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 742-5362
(214) 742-5362

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Revolver Taco Lounge

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Revolver has expanded its offerings with a gastro taco lounge next to the Deep Ellum taqueria. But the wonderful tacos here haven’t changed a bit. Stop in for fresh-made wagyu steak, duck breast, and whatever tacos the Rojas family cooks on any given day. And the Sunday brunch served buffet style is not to be missed.

2701 Main St #120, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 272-7163
(214) 272-7163

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Off the Bone Barbeque

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The smell of barbecue, which wafts all up and down the block, will get you. The pecan smoked baby back ribs keep many people coming into Off the Bone down in Cedars. But the blue cheese and bacon cole slaw and the honey spiced baked beans are awfully special, as are the wings.

1734 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
(214) 565-9551
(214) 565-9551

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Restaurant Beatrice

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Eater Dallas’s best restaurant for 2022 is now one of the best new restaurant finalists in the James Beard Awards. Go there for shrimp and grits, fried chicken, vegan gumbo — all the Cajun staples. In a kitchen helmed by Michelle Carpenter of Zen Sushi and chef Terance Jenkins, who worked in New Orleans kitchens including Commander’s Palace, Louisiana favorites are a step above newspaper-on-the-table casual but never stuffy. 

1111 N Beckley Ave, Dallas, TX 75203
(469) 962-2173
(469) 962-2173

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Don Artemio Restaurant

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Don Artemio opened its first U.S. location in Fort Worth, serving the cuisine of Northern Mexico. The menu highlights traditional Aztec and Mexican dishes, serving mussels in chipotle sauce, seared sea bass with mole, and grilled ribeye with porcini sauce.

3268 W 7th St, Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 470-1439
(817) 470-1439

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Nova

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It’s probably been too long since the last time all of us visited Nova, the little midcentury gem in Oak Cliff. This is where your trusted hospitality service industry folks head after a hard day at work, as well as a neighborhood favorite. And the team are constantly adding new dishes — so try out the seared duck breast, a new favorite, or stick to the Moroccan half chicken, an old fave.

1417 W Davis St, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 484-7123
(214) 484-7123

Taco Y Vino

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On the outskirts of Bishop Arts lies Taco Y Vino, a spot for clever tacos, Mexican-inspired dishes, and a great deal. The chile relleno taco and the tuna crudo tostada will impress. But it’s hard to do better than the deal of the century: six tacos with proteins of the diner’s choice and a bottle of wine for $40.

213 W Eighth St, Dallas, TX 75208
(469) 372-0022
(469) 372-0022

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Lucia

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To believe in the raves that Lucia consistently gets is to eat there, and this year the James Beard Awards took notice and put it in the finalists for Best Restaurant. The cozy atmosphere, the personable staff, and most significantly, the inventive twists on Italian food, which are not too far from the original but just different enough to make it an experience, are worth putting your name on the reservations waitlist to experience. 

287 N Bishop Ave, Dallas, TX 75208
(214) 948-4998
(214) 948-4998

Written by the Seasons

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Bishop Arts has quickly become a favorite neighborhood for Dallasites to explore, and Written by the Seasons is one of the best people-watching restaurants in the area. This spring and summer, take advantage of its menu of sharable bite-sized dishes, an impeccable wine list, and as many cocktails as you can handle while watching the crowds amble by in the indoor/outdoor dining area that’s set back from Davis Street.

380 Melba St, Dallas, TX 75208
(469) 580-1185
(469) 580-1185

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Goldee's Barbecue

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Goldee’s became the must-try barbecue spot in the Metroplex after some prominent mentions in the press. And it delivers. Head on out and get in line one morning for brisket (you can buy a whole one and cut the line), ribs, sausage, and turkey with all the traditional sides. Nothing fancy, just great smoking.

4645 Dick Price Rd, Fort Worth, TX 76140

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Ari Korean BBQ

2625 Old Denton Rd #800, Carrollton, TX 75007

The fun of Korean barbecue is all in cooking it yourself. But the craft of it is in the meat the restaurant uses. Ari Korean BBQ has locations in Carrollton and Plano, both worth traveling to eat at, and has some of the best cuts around. Try the bulgogi, marinated short rib, and thin-sliced prime brisket. And in Carrollton, there’s a new upstairs lounge with cocktails and DJs.

2625 Old Denton Rd #800, Carrollton, TX 75007
(469) 892-2166
(469) 892-2166

Kirin Court

221 W Polk St #200, Richardson, TX 75081

Dim sum in this Richardson Chinese restaurant is served on pushcarts, from which the diner can select from 45 dishes. Go with what looks and smells the most delicious on any given day. That might be old favorites such as fried pork spring rolls and soup dumplings, or it might be time to taste the shrimp paste stuffed eggplant and pork and preserved egg congee makes that list. Bring enough friends to fill a big banquet table or share your table with strangers, but don’t feel like you need to stop with dim sum. Chinese mains, from Mongolian beef to Kung Pao chicken, are also available.

221 W Polk St #200, Richardson, TX 75081
(214) 575-8888
(214) 575-8888

Roots Southern Table

13050 Bee St Suit 160, Farmers Branch, TX 75234

At chef Tiffany Derry’s restaurant, prepare to be tempted by the cast iron cornbread and pimento cheese toast, staples in any Southern kitchen. Then, dive into some inventive main courses, like jerk lamb chops and the Texas redfish prepared with harissa. Crafty Texans know they should finish with a piece of German chocolate cake. 

13050 Bee St Suit 160, Farmers Branch, TX 75234
(214) 346-4441
(214) 346-4441

Mike's Chicken

7752 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230

Some days just call for excellent fried chicken. Mike’s, at it’s original location near Oak Lawn or at the new North Dallas location, always delivers. The crust is crispy and the biscuits are flaky — and while that’s all great, Mike’s lands on this list because it is kind enough to offer a plethora of dipping sauces for every kind of preference and because the mac and cheese is chef’s kiss perfect.

7752 Forest Ln, Dallas, TX 75230
(214) 377-9692
(214) 377-9692

TJ's Seafood Market & Grill Preston Royal

6025 Royal Ln #110, Dallas, TX 75230

It’s hard to beat a lobster roll from TJ’s. Matter of fact, it’s hard to be any seafood from TJ’s. Order its fantastic crab cakes, fish tacos, warm lobster dip, or the almond-crusted cod, which is newly added to the permanent menu. Or place your order at the counter to go and add some surf to your turf barbecue this spring and summer.

6025 Royal Ln #110, Dallas, TX 75230
(214) 691-2369
(214) 691-2369

Rex's Seafood and Market

6713 W Northwest Hwy, Dallas, TX 75225

No matter the season, Rex’s Seafood and Market has what diners crave — and has it so fresh they can buy right out of the case. If grilled salmon, fresh oysters, blackened redfish, or tucking into a plate of hot fish and chips sounds good, Rex’s is the move.

6713 W Northwest Hwy, Dallas, TX 75225
(214) 758-0566
(214) 758-0566

Jia Modern Chinese

8411 Preston Rd Ste 132, Dallas, TX 75225

In the Park Cities, find Chinese food with Szechwan influence at Jia, plus sushi and a touch of Thai. It’s cloth napkin fancy, but owner Jia Huang wants guests to hang around awhile, so the hospitality is front and center. The menu is small and curated without being Americanized. Try out the Chinese Garden Feast, a vegetarian meal made with yams, black mushrooms, snow peas, celery, and lotus root or the crispy beef. The chicken lettuce wraps are also worth raving about.

8411 Preston Rd Ste 132, Dallas, TX 75225
(214) 888-0155
(214) 888-0155

Meridian

5650 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206

The best new restaurant of 2021 remains one of the top dining destinations in the city. Chef Junior Borges has only gotten better since this modern Brazilian destination opened. Borges has made some changes to the menu, opting for a prix fixe menu to put fine dining within reach, which allows customers to pick four dishes for a set price. The wine pairing to go with it is reasonable and worth opting into. And there’s a bar menu, which includes the X-Tudo burger, a delicious, oniony, cheesy meal available in limited amounts daily.

5650 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 659-6382
(469) 659-6382

Anise

5630 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206

Anise has a new chef, as Tony Ibarra takes over the reins of it and La Mina in the Village. And he’s been making the menu his own and revamping the kitchen. Some longtime favorites at the Mediterranean restaurant will stay, like the bacalao (cod) fritters and the crispy octopus. But there are a lot of new flourishes from Ibarra on the menu that make it worth revisiting.

5630 Village Glen Dr, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 659-6376
(469) 659-6376

Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House

1154 Peavy Rd, Dallas, TX 75218

While the Bourdain burger, a simple double patty smash burger, and the Frito pie might be predictable orders at this neighborhood burger joint, they’re part of the always reliable, always delicious menu that keeps folks coming back. The other secret ingredient at Goodfriend in East Dallas is the atmosphere: it feels good to be here.

1154 Peavy Rd, Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 324-3335
(214) 324-3335

Sadelle's Highland Park

1 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205

When is brunch not just brunch? When it’s the experience Sadelle’s Highland Park provides. For most of us, this is a real treat yo’ self spot with soft interiors and a bagel tower option that will make diners feel like they aren’t just having brunch, but have conquered a small country and brunch is the reward. Go back and try every iteration of the eggs Benedict as well, because its worth it.

1 Highland Park Village, Dallas, TX 75205
(469) 290-6009
(469) 290-6009

Knox Bistro

3230 Knox St #140, Dallas, TX 75205

Wondering where to brunch? Keep Knox Bistro in mind, and get a sticky pecan bun for the table. French fare, from the Croque Madame to the French omelet with Boursin to the perennial favorite of hanger steak with eggs and pommes frites, will delight. This is also a nice lunch and dinner spot, but brunch is where the bistro mood fires on all cylinders. 

3230 Knox St #140, Dallas, TX 75205
(469) 250-4007
(469) 250-4007

Sister Restaurant

2808 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206

A little Italian, a little Mediterranean, a lot of great design and delicious food — that’s Sister in a nutshell. Pop into this Greenville Ave. location one evening and try the branzino, the Moroccan spiced chicken, and the olive oil cake. Then linger over one of the signature cocktails, either in the big, comfy booths or sitting on the patio out front. That’s the whole point of a restaurant with a neighborhood vibe: eating great food and checking out the neighborhood.

2808 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 888-8660
(214) 888-8660

Sachet

4270 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219

Trying everything on the Spanish gin and tonic menu is reason enough to visit Sachet on Oak Lawn. But this Mediterranean restaurant from co-owners Allison Yoder and Stephen Rogers is so much more than a great wine and cocktail menu. It’s easy to make a meal of small plates, from green fava falafel to mushrooms cooked in a wood-fired oven with bean puree. But the entrees, especially the lamb chop duo, are symphonic. 

4270 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 613-6425
(214) 613-6425

Nonna

4115 Lomo Alto Dr, Dallas, TX 75219

If someone asks where to eat Italian in DFW, the immediate answer is Nonna. Julian Barsotti owns several restaurants around town, including the newly rechristened Barsotti’s, but this remains his best. It’s elevated food with a neighborhood feel, intentionally brings Texas flavors into Italian tradition, and remains serious about quality. 

4115 Lomo Alto Dr, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 521-1800
(214) 521-1800

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Carte Blanche

2114 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206

Carte Blanche opened and immediately took the Dallas dining scene by storm. It offers a tasting menu put together daily based on availability of ingredients, so whichever option you choose, you’re putting your taste buds in the capable hands of the staff. It’s a journey worth taking. But, if that’s not for you, the bakery items are also a phenomenal weekend treat.

2114 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 434-1538
(214) 434-1538

Neighborhood Services

3848 Oak Lawn Ave Ste 210, Dallas, TX 75219

Winter is as good a time as any to tuck into some comfort food, and for lunch or dinner get a little of what sounds good in American and European fare. Wedge salad? Of course. Steak frites? Got it. Personal pizza with crispy pepperoni cups? Naturally. Schnitzel? Why not.

3848 Oak Lawn Ave Ste 210, Dallas, TX 75219
(972) 803-5563
(972) 803-5563

Jalisco Norte

3858 Oak Lawn Ave #470, Dallas, TX 75219

For those in search of authentic Mexican food, it’s hard to beat the classics at this spot. The pollo con mole, carne asada with molcajete sauce, and beef short ribs served birria-style are all home runs.

3858 Oak Lawn Ave #470, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 443-5183
(214) 443-5183

Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza Turtle Creek

3838 Oak Lawn Ave suite p175, Dallas, TX 75219

There’s no pie in Dallas quite like the star pizza. Since Mister O1 dropped on the scene, it’s been one of the most distinctive pizzas in town, made with some of the best ingredients. Visit for a thin pie, or try the star pizza with its ricotta-stuffed crust. It’s one perfectly sized plate of pizza delight.

3838 Oak Lawn Ave suite p175, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 432-4434
(214) 432-4434

Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen

1907 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206

Soups with rich broth and delicious noodles. Shaking tofu rice. Rice paper rolls. Vietnamese coffee. Sangria with a kick of Hennessey. These are a few delights waiting in Nong Vietnamese Kitchen on Lowest Greenville. Owner Carol Nguyen named the place for her mother and intends to introduce Dallasites to the best of Vietnam. 

1907 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(469) 250-7183
(469) 250-7183

Rye

1920 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206

Rye has been making big moves since it opened, pushing the boundaries of creative fare. Recently, the restaurant announced a program to add 3% to the bill, not as a cost of product increase but to offer the staff benefits, including healthcare. It deserves a lot of support. So stopy by and order the pork belly lollipops and the Icelandic hot dog, the latter of which does a bang-up job of recreating the flavors of a street food dish with elevated ingredients. The vegan chile relleno is also well executed.

1920 Greenville Ave, Dallas, TX 75206
(972) 803-3391
(972) 803-3391

Thunderbird Pies

7328 Gaston Ave #110, Dallas, TX 75214

Over the glut of thin crust pizza sweeping the city? It’s time to indulge in the Detroit pizza craze. The thick, moist crust with crispy burnt cheese edges on this Lakewood spot’s pizzas is another side of enjoying a pizza. Brought to you by the folks behind Cane Rosso, it shares some menu options — so get the Honey Bastard with hot soppressata, bacon marmalade, and habanero honey on a very fluffy crust. There are also options with pineapple for those who swing that way and straight veg for the non-meat eaters. 

7328 Gaston Ave #110, Dallas, TX 75214
(469) 577-1077
(469) 577-1077

Namo

3699 McKinney Ave #305, Dallas, TX 75204

Namo in the West Village sources most of its products from Japan, encompassing sushi, sake, and whiskies — and they’re excellent. But the warm vibes of the tiny sushi bar inside make it memorable. It feels unpretentious and cozy and is built in a way that guarantees the crowds are small (it holds 12) and that eating is a shared experience. Drop by for its special events, including a weekly omakase service. 

3699 McKinney Ave #305, Dallas, TX 75204
(214) 484-5151
(214) 484-5151

The Mansion Restaurant

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219

Step into old school Dallas with a night at the Rosewood Mansion restaurant or bar. The Mansion has a new chef and new head of its bar program, so a lot of changes are happening on the menu — while some long-standing favorites (yes, we mean the tortilla soup) remain. One luxurious must-order is the charred octopus with pepita pesto and cilantro — it’s a perfect bite.

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 443-4747
(214) 443-4747

Pie Tap Pizza Workshop + Bar

1212 Oak Lawn Ave #131, Dallas, TX 75207

Pie Tap may have one of DFW’s most underrated pies. The light crust is made with wheat flowers, wheat germ, olive oil, water, and salt. That’s it. It keeps the pies simple, with classic flavors and an Americanized barbecue chicken pizza. And it maximizes the pie by offering “dipping bones” sauces to stick pizza crusts in. It also offers pasta, salads, sandwiches, and lollipop chicken wings that are killer. 

1212 Oak Lawn Ave #131, Dallas, TX 75207
(469) 677-0997
(469) 677-0997

El Carlos Elegante

1400 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207

A night at El Carlos is well spent eating Latin American-inspired dishes. Like all its restaurants, this one from Duro Hospitality isn’t exactly Mexican or South American; it’s Latin-ish. The company’s chefs worked together, going on exploratory trips around Latin America to develop dishes drawing inspiration from Indigenous cultures, Mexico City street foods, and more. Pro-tip: tell the server your budget and if you have any preferences, and let them curate your plates and drinks. They’re well-trained and fully capable.

1400 N Riverfront Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207
(214) 277-1800
(214) 277-1800

Ellie's Restaurant & Lounge

1717 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201

This fall, Ellie’s in the Hall Arts Hotel got a new chef. Anthony Hsia is working wonders with the menu, bringing innovative cuisine to the Napa-inspired spot with notes of Scandinavia, Asia, and Middle Eastern cuisine — still all rooted in pairings with great California wines and a Napa-esque dining experience.

1717 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201
(972) 629-0924
(972) 629-0924

Tatsu Dallas

3309 Elm St ste 120, Dallas, TX 75226

Chef Tatsu is a master of simple treatments of nigiri that highlight both the quality of the fish (almost everything he serves is flown in from Japan) and his culinary skill as a sushi chef. The small dining room at this restaurant makes it challenging to land a reservation, but it’s worth the effort. And worth the price tag to enjoy an omakase service here.

3309 Elm St ste 120, Dallas, TX 75226
(469) 271-7710
(469) 271-7710

AllGood Cafe

2934 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226

Visit a piece of Deep Ellum history and see some live music while you’re at it. Dallasites of a certain age know that not only is this a great spot to get a chicken fried steak smothered in gravy, but it’s home to a wonderful community that’s seen the neighborhood, and the local music scene, through 20 years of history.

2934 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 742-5362
(214) 742-5362

Revolver Taco Lounge

2701 Main St #120, Dallas, TX 75226

Revolver has expanded its offerings with a gastro taco lounge next to the Deep Ellum taqueria. But the wonderful tacos here haven’t changed a bit. Stop in for fresh-made wagyu steak, duck breast, and whatever tacos the Rojas family cooks on any given day. And the Sunday brunch served buffet style is not to be missed.

2701 Main St #120, Dallas, TX 75226
(214) 272-7163
(214) 272-7163

Off the Bone Barbeque

1734 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215

The smell of barbecue, which wafts all up and down the block, will get you. The pecan smoked baby back ribs keep many people coming into Off the Bone down in Cedars. But the blue cheese and bacon cole slaw and the honey spiced baked beans are awfully special, as are the wings.

1734 Botham Jean Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
(214) 565-9551
(214) 565-9551

Restaurant Beatrice

1111 N Beckley Ave, Dallas, TX 75203

Eater Dallas’s best restaurant for 2022 is now one of the best new restaurant finalists in the James Beard Awards. Go there for shrimp and grits, fried chicken, vegan gumbo — all the Cajun staples. In a kitchen helmed by Michelle Carpenter of Zen Sushi and chef Terance Jenkins, who worked in New Orleans kitchens including Commander’s Palace, Louisiana favorites are a step above newspaper-on-the-table casual but never stuffy. 

1111 N Beckley Ave, Dallas, TX 75203