“Dining Secrets: Southlake's Hidden Foodie Gems”


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?


STEPHANIE
I definitely get why people really like this spot! 🔥 JOA GRILL is a top notch Korean BBQ spot in Dallas that really surprised me when I went! The food, drinks, and vibes were excellent and it was perfect for a nice date night! ✨ This is an elevated Korean BBQ concept, so your server cooks you meats for you (if you’d like) and they have a nice menu of specialty items to go with your main course! 🙌🏾 If you like Korean BBQ, then I recommend trying the TASTE OF JOA. It’s made for 2 people and comes with plenty of meats to share! 🥩 If you want something other than Korean BBQ, I highly recommend the OCTOPUS & the MUSSELS! They were both amazing! 🔥 This is a great spot for date night or a fun group dinner! It’s really a gorgeous spot! 🙌🏾


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


Dallas fun fam
At Nico’s grill & bar, adults can enjoy delicious Mexican food while kids play on the enclosed playground! This family-friendly restaurant is an excellent choice for parent of young kids who have a hard time sitting still. Weekend brunch features an omelette bar, fresh waffles, plus specials on mimosas and Bloody Marys.


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
One of the best burgers in Dallas-Fort Worth can be found at Rodeo Goat. They’ve got a variety of options to suit any taste buds! We love to sit on the patio as they have beautiful fish tanks and a great outdoor area. Parents will also appreciate the weekday happy hour!


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
See also
Dining in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites, and Trending Spots


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!
Discover the Hidden Gems of Dining in Southlake Near Dallas
Southlake, located just minutes away from Dallas, is a haven for food lovers seeking diverse culinary experiences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, finding the best dining spots can elevate any outing. From sumptuous brunches to exquisite dinners, this guide will delve into Southlake’s must-visit dining destinations, revealing the local secrets that make each spot special.
Local Dining Experiences
What makes dining in Southlake unique is its blend of high-end restaurants and cozy, off-the-beaten-path eateries. A local favorite, Joe’s Cafe, serves up traditional American breakfast and brunch with a flair. Residents rave about the cafe's fluffy pancakes and fresh, organic omelettes. Another gem is Wildwood Grill, where the rustic ambiance meets sophisticated American cuisine. This spot is especially popular for its wood-fired pizzas and mouth-watering steak options.
For those seeking an international touch, Truluck’s offers fresh seafood delivered daily, creating a coastal dining experience right in the heart of Southlake. Their crab dishes and lobster bisque are the talk of the town. If your taste buds crave a European flair, visit il Calabrese Ristorante for authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Foodie Favorites
Ask any Southlake local about their favorite dining places, and you'll find Feedstore BBQ and More mentioned frequently. Known for its perfect brisket and hearty portions, this BBQ joint offers a slice of traditional Texan hospitality. Similarly, Kincaid’s Hamburgers is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts. This place has earned a reputation for its juicy, hand-crafted patties and fresh toppings.
Looking for something more upscale? Moxie's Grill & Bar is a trendy spot that combines a casual dining atmosphere with exquisite dishes like seared salmon and mushroom steak. This place is also praised for its innovative cocktail menu, making it a hot spot for both dinner and drinks.
Trending Spots
Southlake’s dining scene is always evolving, with new restaurants making a mark. Del Frisco's Grille is a contemporary American eatery known for its vibrant social scene and delightful dishes such as truffled mac and cheese. The Grille is perfect for both a romantic dinner or a lively get-together with friends.
Another trending spot is Brio Tuscan Grille. This restaurant has become popular due to its warm, Italian villa-inspired decor and a menu bursting with traditional Tuscan flavors. Locals can't get enough of its pasta dishes and oven-roasted pizzas.
Local Insights for Brunch
No dining guide is complete without mentioning the best brunch spots. Southlake locals swear by Milk & Honey, a chic cafe offering an array of delicious brunch options from avocado toast to artisan lattes. For a cozy brunch with a southern twist, head over to Lulu's Kitchen. This spot is particularly famous for its biscuits and gravy, alongside a variety of freshly-baked pastries.
The weekend brunch at Craft & Vine Taproom and Eatery is another can't-miss experience. With its extensive selection of wines and craft beers, it's a perfect spot to relax and unwind while savoring gourmet dishes such as smoked salmon benedict or chicken and waffles.
Dinner and Cocktails
When it comes to dinner and cocktails, Southlake doesn’t disappoint. Copeland's of New Orleans offers an exceptional dinner menu inspired by Creole cuisine. With dishes like shrimp étouffée and crawfish étouffée, paired with expertly crafted cocktails, it's a go-to for a memorable night out.
For a more intimate setting, Trio New American Cuisine provides a refined dining experience with a modern twist. Their seared scallops and filet mignon are perfect for special occasions, while the meticulously curated wine list complements any meal beautifully.
In terms of cocktails, Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill stands out. The extensive menu of craft brews and signature cocktails alongside hearty pub fare makes it a favorite for locals looking to wind down their day in style. Don't miss their happy hour for some fantastic deals!
Insider Tips
When exploring Southlake’s dining scene, timing is everything. Weekends can be bustling, so making reservations ahead of time is advisable. For those spontaneous nights out, many restaurants have cozy bars where you can wait and enjoy a drink in good company. Also, keep an eye out for seasonal menus – Southlake eateries often celebrate local produce and festivities with special dishes that are not to be missed.
Whether you're indulging in a hearty brunch, savoring a gourmet dinner, or exploring the latest trending spots, Southlake near Dallas offers a myriad of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Locals and visitors alike relish the unique blend of flavors, warm hospitality, and the exclusive secrets that make each dining adventure memorable. Dive into the heart of Southlake’s culinary scene and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey.