Though technically in the Dallas Arts District, chef Teiichi Sakurai’s much-lauded Japanese restaurant is worth venturing just slightly out of Downtown. Swing by for lunch for a bowl of perfect green tea soba, or splurge at dinner on a stunning omakase service paired with the city’s finest noodles.

This underground steakhouse is back after a hiatus, with a renovated dining room and a new chef. For years the unique spot had been a quality date-night destination, and a solid option for voracious carnivores. In addition to the Allen Brothers steaks, find indulgent lobster and king crab rigatoni, plus plenty of new veggie dishes like roasted parsnip and Yukon potato puree.

“Eat, drink, and change lives” is the motto of this nonprofit eatery, which is largely staffed by at-risk youth seeking a culinary education as they prepare southern plates full of smoked fried chicken and collard greens, among other compelling dishes. Led by Chad Houser, the menu at Cafe Momentum promises surprising fresh takes on many familiar dishes.

Equal parts cocktail bar and restaurant, The Woolworth serves up quality drinks and equally solid fare. Hearty options like steak frites and sliders are a perfect foil to boozy libations like the Kentucky Blue, a mix of blueberry-infused rye whiskey, lime juice, and sweet vermouth poured over a perfect ice sphere.

If the laid-back vibe isn’t appealing enough, a trip to CBD Provisions is essential if only for one reason: the pig head carnitas. One half of a roasted pig’s head is served on a board alongside tortillas and plenty of fixins’ for most-excellent DIY tacos. Note: reserve this dish 24 hours in advance.

City Hall Bistro is the Adolphus’ stunning mid-century designed eatery, a far cry from the homely cafe that was there before the hotel’s big renovation. Diners will find Southern European-inspired cuisine including fresh pastas, burgers and small sharable plates, plus a menu of crowd-pleasing cocktails.

This tucked away Downtown Dallas sushi bar enjoyed a bout of Internet fame and a bolster to business after the grandson of Kang Lee, who’s worked at the restaurant for nearly 15 years, made a TikTok video about the restaurant back in March. TikTok fandom aside, the gem offers a quiet respite from the city, with quality sushi and a comfortable atmosphere.

With its thin-crust pies and rumored ties to infamous mobster Jack Ruby, Campisi’s is an iconic Dallas institution. The downtown location has hosted thousands of rehearsal dinners, office lunches and date nights.

Wood-grilled steaks, fish and vegetables are served family style inside this Argentinian steakhouse. Start with an order or two of the restaurant’s famous empanadas served with chimmichurri sauce and a big salad, and enjoy your favorite cut of meat, sliced and served tableside.

Tucked into the corner of Main and St. Paul Streets is the gorgeous Partenope, named for an Italian siren and created by husband-and-wife team Dino and Megan Santonicola. Duck in for some of the finest pizza in Dallas, plus Italian cocktails and an intimate, romantic vibe.