Irving Dining Gems: Local Secrets & Trends
Just Dallas Things
Welcome to the neighborhood, D.L. Mack’s🍸 This cozy Chicago-style tavern does not disappoint👏🏼 Everything was delicious, but the cracker crust honey truffle chicken pizza really did it for me. They also use Banana Hazelnut Infused Cold Brew in their Espresso Martinis and o.m.g. IT’S SO GOOD. Cheers to many more nights at Mack’s🥂✨ Ordered: Garlic Knots, Lemon Drop Martini, Bee’s Knees Cocktail, The McCarthy Salad, Honey Truffle Chicken Pizza, Cheeseburger, Espresso Martinis Want to Try Next: Mozzarella Sticks, Pesto Rotini, Harry Caray Special Pizza, Southside Cocktail
Paige
👀Enjoyed the lounge at Sweet Tooth and the art exhibit! 🎇 It's Showtime - Tropical citrus and pineapple combo that'll make sparks fly! 💜 My Whole Life is a Dark Room - Mescal base with some fruity notes and a shrunken head of course. 💚 The Beetlejuice - Our classic green cocktail with hints of melon, citrus, and pineapple (you'll wanna keep an eye out for this one 👁️). 🔥Headless Manhattan - Spooky twist on the espresso martini featuring pumpkin and flames!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
LAS PALMAS || DALLAS 🌴 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: their super strong margaritas and happy hour! Kept hearing about it so had to try it. 🍒 THE VIBE: super dark inside, sultry, the outside of the restaurant is completely different than what you get inside. It’s giving western Mexican romantic restaurant 🤣 🍒 PRICE: ~$35-$40 per person? That’s with a drink! 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Maybe! Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - Solid Tex-Mex food and you can’t go wrong with it. If you’re looking for reliable food in Dallas and you’re with a group of picky eaters and y’all are about to have a night out- this is the perfect place to eat and pre-game. - The margaritas were a bit too strong for a happy hour weekday pick-me-up (personally for me but I know some people love to get slammed mid day 😂) but they were good and only $8 during happy hour. - The fajitas were the star of the show! Absolutely solid! I loved the steaming hot theatrics the fajitas here provide. The tortillas were amazing (we got corn and flour). I love the grilled jalapeños. The rice and beans were flavorful. - I didn’t have the cheese tacos because I was too full but Sweta said they were good! The fajita fiesta easily feeds 3 people, it’s huge! - I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here but like I said if you’re in Dallas, having a night out with picky eaters, this is a solid pre-game dinner spot.
Just Dallas Things
I feel like good service & quality food has been a little hard to find in Dallas these days! One of my favorite spots for lunch & brunch is definitely an exception🍝 James at Al Biernat's Oak Lawn took excellent care of us today and the food was amazing as always👏🏼 Most people think of Al Biernat’s as a fancy dinner spot, but you should definitely give it a try during the day! The prices are great and the food will have you coming back week after week☕️✨ Ordered: Bread Basket with Whipped Herb Butter, Brad’s Grilled Pear Salad, Tortilla Soup, Wild Boar Bolognese, Latte with House-Made Biscotti Want to Try Next: Escargots & Tortellini, Herb Roasted Chicken, Lump Crab Angel Hair Pasta
Just Dallas Things
It’s not SMU Homecoming Weekend without a night out at Javier’s🍸 The staff is always extremely friendly and the atmosphere is so much fun! I’ve narrowed down my favorite menu items and they include (1) The Perfect Margarita, (2) Smoked Chicken Nachos, and (3) Cafe Pierre ~ this dessert drink is 🔥 (literally!) It’s made with Rum, Kahlua, Brandy, Amaretto liqueur, Coffee, and homemade Whipped Cream. It’s delicious & the star of the show every time✨ Minimum order of 2 but you won’t regret it! Oh and if you’re looking for something to try in the cigar room, go for an Espresso Martini and a Vanilla Cigar😘 What are your Javier’s favorites?
Dallas Love List
🫧 UNDERWATER THEMED DUMPLING RESTAURANT IN THE DFW SUBURBS🫧✨ Is anyone else wondering why all the coolest places are going to the burbs? We were shopping recently (the home goods burbs are elite, just a little pro tip) and we saw an unassuming dumpling restaurant and headed inside. When we walked in our jaws literally dropped, I’m not being dramatic, that actually happened. It’s called Juicy Dumplings and everything inside was themed to make you feel like you’re dining underwater. They were playing music video sing-a-longs the whole time we were there and it was the most fun experience. The soup dumplings and chili wontons were good too! Are they the best in town, no I wouldn’t say that but they were very tasty, we’d order them again!
Dallas Delightful Discoveries
🔥 Just got my spice fix at AJ's Hot Chicken, and let me tell you—it was worth every bite! 😋 Their sliders at a heat level of three had the perfect kick, just enough to make you sweat but keep you coming back for more. 🌶️ The friendly service made the experience even better, and I couldn't resist trying their mozzarella sticks and wings—both spicy, crispy, and oh-so-good! If you're in the mood for a flavorful adventure, this spot has got you covered. 🍗✨
See also
Dining in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites, and Trending Spots
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD || DALLAS 🍸 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: the coldest martinis, steaks, and pastas! They have a such a unique menu to choose from. 🍒 THE VIBE: old Hollywood vibes. They do have a dress code they would like you to adhere to but I find that they’re not actually strict about it. 🍒 PRICE: ~$90 + $20 tip 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! Second time here. •••• Overall Rating: 11/10 - This is probably my favorite special occasion restaurant of all time because every time I come here I’m just obsessed with the food and ambiance! The service is always a 10/10 too. - They have the best martinis- my personal favorite are the French 75 (tastes like a light sparkling lemon drop) and the espresso martini WITH reposado tequila (you gotta ask for the tequila!). - Omg…. YOU HAVE TO TRY THE OZZY PIZZA. It’s absolutely delicious. The steak on it was cooked perfectly and this is the perfect size for two people or to share amongst a larger group so you can enjoy the other dishes. - The salmon crispy rice was pretty average but honestly I love any sushi and I was craving it so it satisfied my craving! - Overall, DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD you’ll see me again!!! A classic old Dallas staple.
Dallas Magazine
Best Meal With A View in Dallas: Mirador The downtown penthouse restaurant reopened after its pandemic hiatus with the same beautifully sunlit dining room and a fresh new menu that includes seasonal bistro lunch fare and a glamorous afternoon tea service. There are restaurants with higher views and aspirations. Mirador offers a gentler touch of luxury.
Shania dfw.topsites
🥟✨HIDDEN GEM✨🥟 Bushi Bushi a locally owned and operated gem is perfect for classic dim sum and Chinese food, all made from scratch. The atmosphere is casual yet elegant. What’s unique is the minimal interaction with staff—you order via a QR code, and a little robot delivers your food and drinks. And if you come here, you absolutely must try the orange chicken! It’s hands down one of the best in Dallas, with the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. POPULAR ON THE MENU: 🥟 Soup Dumplings with Crab Meat 🧡 Orange Chicken (the best I’ve tried in DFW) 🍜 Chicken Pan-Fried Udon with Black Pepper 🍝 Stir Fried Rice Noodles
Shania dfw.topsites
🥟✨HIDDEN GEM✨🥟 Bushi Bushi Dim Sum a locally owned and operated gem is perfect for classic dim sum and Chinese food, all made from scratch. The atmosphere is casual yet elegant. What’s unique is the minimal interaction with staff—you order via a QR code, and a little robot delivers your food and drinks. And if you come here, you absolutely must try the orange chicken! It’s hands down one of the best in Dallas, with the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness. POPULAR ON THE MENU: 🥟 Soup Dumplings with Crab Meat 🧡 Orange Chicken (the best I’ve tried in DFW) 🍜 Chicken Pan-Fried Udon with Black Pepper 🍝 Stir Fried Rice Noodles
Minnie
I’m back for the second time at this hidden gem! It’s a fast-casual spot by day, but at night, the speakeasy part opens up. This speakeasy is totally unexpected, and once you’re inside, they give you a menu book with the history of the place, details to the artworks, and their meanings, along with a drink menu. They host “Ode to Nepal” live music nights on Wednesdays with local Nepali artists and will also be starting a Nepali Bazaar outside the restaurant every Sunday afternoon, promoting Nepali handmade products! So, tag a friend you’d like to go with! Taipo (Behind the Door)
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Kid Friendly Patio Restaurant with Yard Games: Shake Shack in Uptown Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ Shake Shack in Uptown Dallas has a huge kid friendly patio! ❤️ There are yard games like ping pong & corn hole, a large grassy lawn, and plenty of shaded tables. ❤️ This is the perfect lunch or dinner spot when exploring Klyde Warren Park, the Perot Museum, or riding the uptown trolley. Good to know: - There is free restaurant parking in the parking garage of The Crescent Hotel. Make sure to validate your ticket at the restaurant! - It’s open daily for lunch and dinner.
Minnie
This is a Dallas hidden gem 😍. It’s a super cute Alice in Wonderland inspired brunch spot with amazing food. I see why the lines out the door, like every plate we ordered was so good. Our favorites: avocado toast, salmon benedict, and their tacos. They have freshly squeezed juices and a full cocktail bar. The espresso martini and mango passion mimosa are a must! But honestly you can’t go wrong with any of their drinks. It’s definitely one of my favorite brunch spots especially when the service, food, and drinks all hit the marks.
See alsoDiscover Your Community in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Discussions, Anonymous Posts & Events
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
JOE LEO’S TEX MEX: Great food and a solid Tex Mex place! 💓 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: I’m not sure but it seems to be a local Dallas staple for years now. I only just found out about it. It’s pretty cute inside. Chips and salsa were fire >>> 🍒 THE VIBE: pretty casual, laid back, local Dallas vibes. 🍒 PRICE: ~$22 + $5 tip (my beef taco salad only) 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. •••• Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - This is definitely a solid place to grab lunch or dinner! If you’re craving Tex Mex, add this to your list because they do it right. - The steak in my taco salad had SO much flavor. The salad was lowkey drowned in their jalapeno ranch making it not so healthy- however the ranch was actually SUPER spicy. I loved it!!!! I would get it again next time. - I had a little bit of my friend’s brunch fajitas that were half chicken and half jalapeno sausage and she loved it I also loved it as well! - Service was great. Vibes were great. They have a huge patio that does have misters for the hot days. Inside is not that big but is pretty cute. Parking was a breeze.
Minnie
YAY wagamamaUSA! Their first location in Texas is in Dallas! I’ve had wagamama many times before since I lived near one when I was in NYC. It’s a popular ramen shop from the UK with pan-Asian and Asian comfort food. I stopped by for their new menu, which includes the Ahi Tuna Nachos, Korean Fried Chicken Bao, Miso Sweet Potato Bao, Karaage Chicken Bao, and Chili Hoisin Duck Bao. They also have sake-based cocktails with SOTO sake: Vietnamese Espresso Martini, Matcha Mule, and Passion Fruit Paloma. Tag a friend you’d like to go with! FYI - There’s free parking! They can validate parking for 2.5 hours in the building garage.
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
NORI HANDROLL BAR 🍙 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: hand rolls! They have classic Japanese appetizers too like Karaage and takoyaki. 🍒 THE VIBE: sultry and intimate. We went during the daytime though so it was a bit more empty but I can tell this is a vibe for a date night! 🍒 PRICE: ~$80 for two people 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! •••• Overall Rating: 10/10 - We got king salmon, torched crab, dakutoro, & negitoro hand rolls. Absolutely phenomenal quality. I’m gonna say something controversial but I thought it was better than Hatsuyuki in Fort Worth but they are in two different cities so take it as you will! - The king salmon had the largest piece of salmon I was obsessed! The negitoro was out of this world. I will say the dakutoro was slightly fishy but I enjoyed the balance of the radish. - I liked this Handroll place had other ingredients inside of the Handroll to complement the fish. - The chefs and employees were extremely nice and attentive. I highly recommend coming here!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
OISHI SUSHI & PAN-ASIAN🥢 •••• 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: very popular sushi restaurant. 🍒 THE VIBE: really small interior with patio seating. Recommend a reservation on weekends. 🍒 PRICE: varied per person but we honestly got way too much food LOL. Average should be $20-$50 per person based on cocktails and quantity. 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. •••• Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - Great sushi spot with TONS of choices for sushi lovers AND non-sushi lovers. There’s just so many options you really can’t go wrong. - Please get a lychee martini their martinis were absolutely phenomenal! - Space was limited, I had a reservation but it didn’t work out but they were accommodating setting another reservation but this place was extremely busy on the weekends which is good for them! - The thing that stood out to me was the service here! The hostesses were nice when I brought a birthday cake for my friend. The server was so friendly. They really made this casual restaurant such a beautiful experience! I love the employees here!
The Dallas Morning News
La Bodega Rotisserie If you want to save money and have a family or friends meal where sharing is key, you can go to La Bodega Rotisserie in Oak Cliff and buy a rotisserie chicken with sides that can easily feed a group of four or five people for less than $50. Your package of rotisserie chicken, plus fries and salad, can be a delicious dinner any day of the week or a one- or two-person weekend lock-in meal if you plan to stay home and marathon a series.
The Dallas Morning News
Every time I go to Kirin Court, I’m amazed at the prices. Dumplings, egg rolls, steamed buns and the like are just a few bucks. This dim sum restaurant is an especially great stop if you’re dining with friends who love to share.
The Dallas Morning News
Food From Galilee Nestled in University Park’s Snider Plaza, this humble Mediterranean spot serves loaded gyros, shawarma sandwiches and a plethora of appetizers that allow for variety on a budget, such as kibbeh, hummus and cabbage rolls. At lunchtime, meals are served on styrofoam plates; dinnertime gets an upgrade to something sturdier. The zingy chicken and rice soup is part of my order on every visit. Platters are generously portioned and come with rice or cucumber yogurt and a choice of soup or salad.
See alsoNetworking Events and Local Insights in Farmers Branch Near Dallas
Sheen
✨❇️AFRAH-A Must Visit Spot❇️✨ If you like to go around and experience different cuisines then this place should definitely be on your list. The service here is top notch & the ambience is pleasant, giving all the European vibes. It has been around for 2 decades now & still maintain its service & quality 💯 Featured Items: 🍱Afrah Sampler For (2); Hummus, Baba Ghannouj, Fried Kebbe, Falafel and Grape Leaves. 🥗Fattoush. 🧆Kebab Combo. 🍥Akkawi Pie 🥙Hummus & Pita Bread. 🥤Lemon Mint Smoothie. 🍹Fruit Cocktail. 🥧 Kunafa. Do check out this place if you haven’t already! Enjoy their service & varieties of items they offer✌🏻
Dallas Magazine
The brunch bazlama, Petra and the Beast Does a bread folded in half count as a sandwich? Petra and the Beast’s brunch gets into the game with a bazlama, a relative of a Middle Eastern flatbread. It’s folded around the restaurant’s own sage breakfast sausage, eggs, arugula, and Thomasville Tomme, a tangy aged cheese made from raw cow’s milk. The result is big enough to share—if you like other people enough.
Dallas Magazine
Chicken burger, Ookuma Japanese Burger Crispy breaded chicken, a fistful of pickles, and a blanket of tartar sauce are all this burger needs. As I wrote previously, you can’t eat the burger without a mountain of napkins, thanks to the housemade tartar sauce loaded with chopped egg. Miraculously, the fried chicken stays crisp underneath. It’s a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
Dallas Magazine
Turkey sandwich, Encina Encina’s brunch burger is stealing a lot of attention these days, and its blue corn pancakes are a smash hit. But can I put in a good word for the most boring-sounding dish on the brunch menu? There’s so much good detail in this turkey sandwich. The little bit of avocado, the arugula and peppers for depth of flavor, bread that complements the rest. Oh, and bacon. Everything about this construction is oh-so-right.
Dallas Magazine
Ookuma Japanese Burger Crispy breaded chicken, a fistful of pickles, and a blanket of tartar sauce are all this burger needs. As I wrote previously, you can’t eat the burger without a mountain of napkins, thanks to the housemade tartar sauce loaded with chopped egg. Miraculously, the fried chicken stays crisp underneath. It’s a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
Everything Arlington and DFW
🍕 SLIDERS, SHAKES & SLICES (including boozy shakes for 21+!) for the whole fam in Grand Prairie at SERIOUS EATS 🍕 Located in EpicCentral, Serious Eats is a yummy spot for a bite with the fam. 🍕 Order at kiosks and your name is called when your food is ready. 🍕 Choose from monster slices of pizza, sliders, fries, tots and onion rings. Be sure to save room for a gourmet shake! (You just need one- it’s enough for 2 or 3 people!) 🍕 Full bar available along with boozy shakes for anyone 21 and over (I loved the Vincent Vega shake- YUM!). 🍕 Indoor & outdoor seating available, but you may have to wait a bit during busy times for a seat inside (we did!). 🍕 This spot is located next to the new climbing gym at EpicCentral so kids can play before or after they eat. 🍕 Sit outside & you can watch the Illuvia water & light show while you dine! 🍕 Pro Tip: the pizza slices are big enough that you’ll be full with one but the sliders are small so you may want two! Have you tried Serious Eats yet?
Dallas Hidden Gems
We just checked out the Operators Club in the West End historic district’s Coca-Cola building, and the experience did not disappoint! This gem is the perfect spot to grab a bite or catch a game in the downtown area, as it pays homage to the American “Operators” and hard working people everywhere that get it done on the daily. We loved everything we sampled, but we will definitely be ordering the Pasta Zepp on our next visit! Food Deets: - Butcher & Farmer Board ($24) - Gochujang Duck Drumettes ($14) - Max & Cheese Burger ($19) - New Orleans Tasso ($22) Drink Deets: - Manhattan Project Draft - Irish Maid
See alsoExplore Cocktails in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Insights on Trending Rooftop Bars & Nightlife
Shania dfw.topsites
ANTOJIITOS MENTIIRAS is definitely a must-visit! They serve up mouthwatering “antojitos,” also known as tasty Mexican street food! Their corn in a cup (topped with hot cheeto, takis, or traditional toppings) is outstanding – the top pick in DFW! They also offer over-the-top shakes, fresas con crema, aguas frescas, prepared maruchan, mangonadas, and more! They prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients in all their dishes. 🌽🔥
The Dallas Morning News
One of North Texas’ best bakeries has opened in Dallas’ Half Price Books La Casita Coffee is open now, serving croissants and espresso. Coming soon: brunch. La Casita, a croissant shop and brunch restaurant that started in Richardson, opened Aug. 20, 2024, in the former Black Forest Coffee. La Casita Coffee sells espressos, matcha drinks and the pastries it’s become locally famous for: croissants, cruffins, muffins and the like.
Local Dining Experiences in Irving Near Dallas
Unearthing Hidden Culinary Gems
When exploring Irving, a bustling hub just a stone’s throw from Dallas, the local dining scene reveals a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the mainstream eateries and chain restaurants, Irving is home to unique spots that offer a more intimate and authentic dining experience. From family-run establishments serving up classic Tex-Mex to up-and-coming bistros with inventive menus, the city caters to diverse culinary preferences and tastes.
Foodie Favorites: Must-Try Local Spots
For the food enthusiast keen on delving into Irving’s rich gastronomic offerings, a trip to Mama’s Daughter’s Diner is a must. Known for its down-home comfort food and welcoming vibe, this locale has long been a neighborly favorite. Equally revered is Andalous Mediterranean Grill, where the flavors of the Mediterranean transport diners to sun-soaked coastal shores with each bite. Don’t miss out on Empa Mundo Empanadas, a small local joint serving delicious empanadas that are perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
Trending Spots: Where Locals Love to Dine
In Irving’s evolving culinary landscape, several trending spots have emerged, capturing the attention of both locals and visitors alike. The Ranch at Las Colinas is a prime example, blending rustic Texas charm with sophisticated cuisine. On the other hand, Pacific Table, with its coastal-inspired fare, has become a go-to spot for those craving fresh, vibrant dishes. For a unique dining experience, visit Hugo's Invitados, where every dish is made from scratch, featuring organic and non-GMO ingredients that serve to elevate Texas flavors to new heights.
Brunch and Cocktails: Weekend Indulgences
When the weekend rolls around, Irving offers indulgent brunch options and delightful cocktails. Whiskey Cake stands out not only for its namesake dessert but also for its farm-to-kitchen menu that includes a standout brunch. Paired with a signature cocktail, it makes for a perfect weekend treat. For a vibrant and upbeat brunch, head to Gloria's Latin Cuisine, where you can pair delectable Latin dishes with refreshing cocktails like mojitos and margaritas.
Dinner Delights: Evening Dining Elegance
The dinner scene in Irving brings elegance and sophistication to the table. Lamberti’s Ristorante & Wine Bar is a classic choice for an intimate dinner, where you can savor authentic Italian dishes paired with a fine selection of wines. Via Real offers a unique Southwestern fine-dining experience, making it a popular spot for special occasions. Additionally, Olivella’s Neo Pizza Napoletana takes pizza to a gourmet level, presenting handcrafted pies in an upscale yet cozy setting.
Restaurant Local Insights: What Locals Are Saying
Leveraging insights from the local community through platforms like Kikihub can unearth real opinions and secrets about where to dine in Irving. Locals often rave about the cozy ambience and exceptional service at Shawarma Press, where Mediterranean wraps and platters are the talk of the town. Similarly, seafood lovers will find no shortage of praise for Fish City Grill, where fresh, flavorful dishes come with generous portions. Restaurants like Pinstack bring more than just meals to the table, offering a mix of entertainment and dining that’s perfect for families and groups.
Locally-Cultivated Tastes
The dining landscape in Irving mirrors the city’s commitment to local, fresh ingredients and inventive gastronomy. From farm-to-table delights to globally inspired cuisine, Irving’s dining options are as varied as its multicultural populace. Villa’s Grill, a local Brazilian steakhouse, for instance, boasts an impressive selection of meats carved at the table, providing an authentic churrascaria experience. Moreover, the vegetarian and vegan communities are not left behind, with places like The Green Gator offering plant-based dishes that don't skimp on flavor or creativity.
