Uncover Irving's Hidden Entertainment Gems
Dallas Magazine
DIFF Shorts Film Festival August 23 to August 25 Watch an array of short films this weekend at the DIFF Shorts Film Festival. The event offers more than just screenings; it features panel discussions and Q&A sessions to learn more about the films and the filmmakers behind them. Founded in 2006 on the principle that film should be placed on the same pedestal as other art forms, DIFF is committed to supporting short films and the filmmakers who bring them to life. We believe short films are a unique and powerful medium for storytelling, deserving of the same recognition as feature films.
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.
Dallas Hidden Gems
All my Japanese food lovers out there probably already know about the original location of Mr Max (located in Irving), but did you know they recently opened up a second location?! Mr Max’s first location is an award winning restaurant, that was listed on Yelp’s ‘Top 100 Places to eat in the US’. They’ve had so much success that they’ve opened their most recent location in Richardson to help supplement the the waits that you’ll experience upon arrival. With that being said, don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a table, as it is a Mr Max tradition! Food Deets: - 5 Piece Sashimi ($38) - Kobe Beef Skewers ($9.50) - Karaage with Tatar Sauce ($8.50) - Grilled Shishito Peppers ($7.00) - Tonkotsu Ramen ($11.95) - Chashu Pork Rice Sandwich ($5.75) Drinks: - Fresh Grapefruit Chuhai ($8.50) - Kirin Large ($7.50)
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. 🌽🔥
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
Dallas Magazine
Ari’s Pantry An Italian-focused grocery-and-provisions store that opened on West Davis Street this winter. The first time we met Ari Lowenstein, he told us, “I opened this place because I was tired of driving to Jimmy’s.” His little shop doesn’t sell sandwiches or wine, but it has everything else, from top-notch imported meat and cheese to homemade tomato sauce. There are great pastas, jams, and even cookbooks. This fall, a new commercial kitchen will allow Ari’s to bake breads and sell take-home meals such as lasagna. Signature Offering: You can find everything you need to make your own pizza here, from homemade tomato sauce to hot salami—plus expert staff advice on topping combos. Got some pizza dough and leftover broccoli? They’ll help you find the perfect cheese. Secret Weapon: You might be offered a free bundle of fresh herbs with your purchase.
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?
See also
Dining in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Dining Experiences, Foodie Favorites, and Trending Spots
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Toddler Art Class in Dallas at Dallas Museum of Art🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ The Dallas Museum of Art offers classes specifically for toddlers 2-3 years old! ❤️ Little ones learn about works of art, sing songs, and create their own masterpiece! ❤️ After class is over, there are more hands-on activities to explore in the Center for Creative Connections. There’s also a small play area with books, blocks, and other toys! Good to know: - These classes fill up fast! I recommend checking DMA’s website often to see when new class times are added. - Classes are only $10 per child. Adults and non-participating siblings are free. - Parking in the garage at the museum can be pricey! We circled the block to find metered parking to save some money. - Toddler art projects are simple but still very engaging for little ones.
Dallas Magazine
Breakfast sandwich, Alamo Club This is a righteous sandwich. You can tell because it comes with a hash brown inside, but really, everything about it is exactly what it should be: the buttered bun, the well-done egg, the jalapeño condiment. It’s the model of a breakfast sandwich. I like it so much, I ate it outdoors.
The Dallas Morning News
12 seats, 3 chefs, 16 courses: dinner at Shoyo is one of the most joyful meals in Dallas! Shoyo is an omakase sushi bar that serves 16 courses for $175, with just 12 seats and three Nobu veteran chefs. This makes dinner at Shoyo sound like a visit to a fine-dining temple. Shoyo mixes tradition with playfulness, craft with camaraderie. You can spend weeks fretting over securing a reservation, setting phone alarms before the next batch of tables is made available, keeping your weeknights free in case of a last-minute cancellation. Then, in the moment of the meal itself, all that hassle is forgotten.
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.
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
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
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.
See alsoDiscover Your Community in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Discussions, Anonymous Posts & Events
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 Love List
✨🍣 ALL YOU CAN EAT KOREAN BBQ, SUSHI AND SHABU EXPERIENCE We were driving around Carrollton a few weeks ago and wanted to try somewhere new so we hit up Bros Korean BBQ & Sushi. Here are a few things you should know before you go! The prices are really good for the amount of food you get. First of all, if you’re not a huge eater this might not be the spot for you - but if you can put back some food then go hungry and have yourself a feast. At lunch, Korean BBQ is $25, dinner is $39. If you want to add on unlimited sushi it’s just $10 more, then if you want to add on shabu too, it’s just $5 more. If you’re new to Korean BBQ (or hot pot) the servers there are really helpful, just let them know it’s your first time and they’ll walk you through everything you need to know. We only did the Korean BBQ and sushi this time, but if you’ve been for hot pot too, let us know how it is and if we should go back! Add it to the Love List ✨💕
Dallas Magazine
Conduit Gallery Nancy Whitenack started Conduit Gallery 40 years ago in a live/work space in Deep Ellum. Over the past few decades, she’s established herself as one of the city’s most reputable gallerists. The gallery features a variety of emerging and established artists, some of whom have been on her roster since the early years. Whether you’re looking to scoop a dining room-friendly piece or explore new voices in the regional art scene, Conduit Gallery is a reliable stop.
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.
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.
Visit Dallas
Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15-Oct. 15 National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. During this month and throughout the year, the National Park Service and our partners, share history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans of past and present. Join us for the 7th annual Dallas Arboretum Hispanic Heritage Celebration on September 14-15, 2024. This two day celebration will feature food, vendors, live music, cooking demonstrations and, of course, the Quinceañera Fashion Show.
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.
See alsoNetworking Events and Local Insights in Farmers Branch Near Dallas
Dallas Magazine
Various Small Fires After establishing itself as a Los Angeles staple for the last 12 years, Various Small Fires opened its third location in Dallas in 2022. For owner Esther Kim Varet, a Trinity Christian Academy alum, this was a sort of homecoming. Varet, who is Korean, opened her second location in Seoul in 2019. That move proved to be savvy, as the international art fair, Frieze, now has an annual event there. The small downtown Dallas storefront brings a more global sensibility to the city’s curatorial makeup. This is a good place to take the pulse of the broader art market. A lot of the artists VSF has represented go on to be art stars.
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!
Dallas Magazine
Erin Cluley Gallery The last 10 years in the Dallas gallery scene has seen a lot of openings and closings, but Erin Cluley Gallery remains a constant. She has a solid line-up of artists, many of whom live and work in the region. She is regularly collaborating within the community and she creates smart, thoughtful programming in her space. Be sure to pick up any materials her team assembles about the exhibition, as this is a gallery dedicated to inviting visitors into the artistic inspiration and process.
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Family Friendly Italian Restaurant with Green Space in DFW: CiboDivino in Dallas🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ CiboDivino Marketplace is a delish, family friendly Italian restaurant in Dallas! ❤️ This specific location at Sylvan Thirty has a huge lawn area where kids are encouraged to run and play! It was inspired by the Mercati di piazza in Italy where family and friends can share food & drinks. ❤️ The menu features Italian staples like pasta, pizza, and salad. Good to know: - While there isn’t a kids menu, I ordered the butter noodles for my kid. Cheese pizza is another great option for picky eaters! - CiboDivino is open daily from 12-9pm
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!
Dallas Magazine
Daisha Board Gallery Since opening her first space in 2021, Daisha Board has run one of the city’s most inclusive galleries. The art program is dedicated to marginalized communities, which the gallery defines as artists of color, LGBTQIA+ identifying artists and artists with disabilities. The exhibits often contain big, bold works and the exhibition openings are fun parties. She shut down the original location last year, moving the gallery operation to the location on Bataan Street.
Dallas fun fam
🗓️ Kidpreneur Market What’s Happening: ✨ Explore curated family booths with creative, community-driven displays. 🎯 Support a great cause with all proceeds benefiting CECPTA for parent education, children's programs, and community outreach. 🎈 Enjoy free activities including a fire truck display, bounce house, face painting, and more! Don’t miss out on this wonderful event to connect with your community and support an amazing cause! 🕑 9/14 💲 FREE
See alsoExplore Cocktails in Farmers Branch Near Dallas: Local Insights on Trending Rooftop Bars & Nightlife
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
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.
Discovering Local Entertainment in Irving Near Dallas
A Vibrant Nightlife Scene
Irving, just a stone's throw from Dallas, boasts a bustling nightlife that's perfect for locals and visitors seeking a lively evening out. From sleek rooftop bars with stunning skyline views to hidden speakeasies, Irving offers something for everyone. One local favorite is the Mustang Park Plaza, where you can enjoy craft cocktails, live music, and delicious bites. These trending spots make Irving a premier destination for night owls.
The Live Music Experience
Music aficionados will find an array of venues in Irving that feature both local and touring artists. The Toyota Music Factory is a must-visit, offering a variety of performances, from indie bands to big-name acts. It's not just a concert hall but a full entertainment district with dining and nightlife options. For those who prefer intimate settings, local coffeehouses like Java Me Up host open mic nights and acoustic performances, shining a spotlight on emerging talent within the community.
Cultural Hotspots and Artistry
Art and culture are alive and well in Irving. The Irving Arts Center showcases rotating exhibits and holds theater performances, concerts, and dance recitals. This venue is a hub for local artists and provides an immersive cultural experience. Additionally, the Mandalay Canal Walk at Las Colinas features public art installations and offers a picturesque setting for art lovers to enjoy mural paintings and sculptures while strolling by the water.
Community Events and Festivals
Irving hosts numerous community events and festivals that put the spotlight on local entertainment. The annual Canal Fest is a celebration of global cultures with diverse entertainment, including music performances, dance, and family-friendly activities. The Irving Main Street Event is another popular festival that features live music, artisan booths, and delectable food trucks, creating a vibrant atmosphere that draws people from all over the Dallas area.
Irving's Best-Kept Secrets
Local insights reveal several hidden gems that tourists may overlook. For example, The Cellar at City Hall takes the bar scene underground with an intimate setting perfect for unwinding. For a unique experience, catch a show at the Irving Symphony Orchestra, where classical music comes to life. Another insider tip: visit the rooftop bar at Texican Court for craft drinks and panoramic views of the area.
Engage with the Community on Kikihub
Tap into local secrets, recommendations, and honest reviews about Irving’s entertainment scene through the Kikihub platform. Whether you're exploring new nightlife spots, seeking the next trending artist, or simply wanting to have fun and make the most of what Irving has to offer, Kikihub users provide invaluable insights directly from the community. Join the local chat to stay ahead of the curve and discover all that Irving's entertainment scene has to offer.
