East Dallas Insider: Top Local Recommendations
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
Just Dallas Things
Is there anything more Texas than the State Fair? As a Dallas native, I’ve been going ever since I was a little girl🎡 There is something about the smell of corn dogs frying and Big Tex waving “Howdy, Folks!” that makes me feel at home💕 My first stop is always Fletcher’s to get the best corny dog on the planet. I know it’s controversial, but I’m team mustard AND ketchup💛❤️ Next I tried some 2022 food winners ~ if you’re a pickle lover, the pickle pizza is to die for! I loved every bite. If you have a sweet tooth, the fried rocky road + bluebell is 10/10 for me! I usually end with a Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Leg from Hans Mueller (IYKYK). My other all-time favorites include fried oreos, fried PB&J, Funnel Cakes, and a swig of Pepto Bismol🤪 Try some new foods, ride the Ferris Wheel, play games & win big at the Midway, and end your night with the beautiful Illumination Sensation performance🎆🎉
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.
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.
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.
See also
Discover Top Dining Experiences in East Dallas: Foodie Favorites and Trending Spots
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
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.
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
STEPHANIE
A friend recommended this spot to me and she was absolutely right 🫶🏾✨ Plomo Quesadillas Bar is a new quesadilla bar in Dallas that is the perfect spot for a quick, quality bite! They’re open late every day and stay open until 4am on the weekends! 🌙 I’m always looking for solid spots that are quick, but still have good food, and this is one of them! The quesadillas are fresh, the service is great, and they have a parking lot so it’s easy to stop by! 🔥 Hands down, I recommend the CHORIZO MAC AND CHEESE and the QUESO! For quesadillas, there’s only two rules: add Doritos and ask them to make it dirty! Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with any option! 🌮
STEPHANIE
One of my personal favs! ✨ Sassetta is a beautiful Italian Restaurant is one of my go-to date night spots! The interior is romantic, the service is great, and the food is always delicious! 🙌🏾 This spot opens at 11am, so it’s perfect for a lunch date or an evening in the city! The menu is full of Italian favorites and I’ve yet to try a dish I don’t like here! 🥂 I highly recommend the RIGATONI PASTA & the BOLOGNESE PASTA. Both are amazing! 🍝 I also recommend asking to sit along the windows. It’s a ground level view, and such a nice vibe while eating ☀️ This a great spot for a date night, girl’s night, or to grab a solo drink in the city! 🍸
Dallas Magazine
Trek to the African American Museum The museum has several permanent exhibits, like the Billy Folk Art Collection, plus visiting and temporary exhibitions that highlight African American history and culture across the U.S. The African American Museum is the only one of its kind in the Southwestern Region devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. It has one of the largest African American Folk Art collections in the U.S. The institution hosts a number of lectures and specialty events throughout the year—don’t miss the Summer Music Under the Dome concert series. Free.
STEPHANIE
10/10! This was such a fun experience! 🙌🏾💐 Pur Noire is a black owned urban winery that just opened its second location in Dallas! The first location is in Houston, so this is a great activity if you’re in either city! ✨ The vibe is elevated but still relaxed, so it’s a great spot to unwind or meet a friend! You can grab a glass to sip or do a customized tasting to try a few different wines! They also have a free wine club for true wine lovers! This gets you exclusive perks, like access to the members only tasting room, and discounts on bottles, events, etc! I definitely recommend! 💕
See alsoExplore the Vibrant Community in East Dallas: Anonymous Local Discussions & Events
The Dallas Morning News
For the first time, the traditional Battle of the Burgers at Rodeo Goat is raising money for a good cause. Through July 31, the restaurant’s Radio G.O.A.T. and Birria Burger are the stars of the burger competition. For every vote they get, $1 goes to KERA, the community-supported radio station in North Texas. As of July 24, 11,441 votes had been cast. The creation is the Radio G.O.A.T., made with a beef patty, double pepper jack cheese, roasted green chiles, prickly pear barbecue sauce, cactus fries, and micro cilantro. As of July 24, this burger had 7,148 votes. Its competitor is the Birria Burger, which features a beef patty with birria de res, a corn tortilla, queso Oaxaca, radish slaw, and cilantro-avocado spread. As of Wednesday, it had 4,293 votes.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Just steps away from the American Airlines Center, Happiest Hour is a vibrant and spacious venue. In fact, it is the largest patio bar and lounge in Dallas. Offering 12,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor lounge, the prime spot for alfresco vibes is the stylish second floor rooftop, surrounded with impeccable views over Victory Park and the Dallas skyline. Packed with plenty of atmosphere, from the casual post-work and pre-game sessions, to more upscale late night vibes, the large rooftop menu comes filled with signature cocktails, wines on tap and more than 50 different beer selections.
Dallas fun fam
Dallas: balancing great food and child-approved fun! Medieval Times is a kid-friendly attraction where you eat a medieval-style dinner and watch knights joust right in front of you! It feels like you’ve stepped back in time, and it’s a good time for everyone! Make sure to book a reservation in advance! Medieval Times is based upon authentic Medieval history and is the true story of a noble family with documentation dating back to the 11th Century. Medieval Times began with two dinner/ entertainment complexes located in Majorca and Benidorm, Spain. The first North American Castle in Kissimmee, Florida opened in December 1983. Medieval Times’ Castles have since entertained more than 72 million guests.
Dallas fun fam
Riding the M-Line Trolley is a great way to explore Uptown Dallas with kids! There are 39 stops for the M-Line Trolley, but our favorite is at Klyde Warren! You’ll find this trolley stop just north of the intersection at Olive and Woodall Rogers Freeway. You’ll head north through Uptown, do a loop of almost the entire route, and eventually head back south to Klyde Warren. Trolley stops and schedules are available on Google Maps using the public transit feature. You can even download the Dallas Trolley app to track the trolleys along the route.
Dallas Love List
🐈⬛THERE’S A CAT CAFE IN DALLAS Whiskers and Soda is a casual cafe where you can mix and mingle with cats and kittens while you relax and work. Located in the heart of Dallas with cats ready to find a permanent home! It’s $16 an hour to walk in and pet them, plus can enjoy a little treat from the cafe while you’re there!☕️ Whiskers and Soda also boards cats on the other side of the cafe, so if you need someone to take care of your cat while you’re away, they’ve got you covered!
Exploring the Best of East Dallas: Local Recommendations
Dive into East Dallas's Culinary Delights
East Dallas is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts, offering a myriad of delectable choices that cater to all palates. If you’re a fan of authentic Mexican cuisine, Taquero Mucho on Lower Greenville should be at the top of your list. This beloved local spot has gained a following for its mouth-watering tacos and refreshing margaritas. For a taste of Tex-Mex, El Arañazo offers some of the best nachos and enchiladas in the area.
Of course, no food exploration is complete without dessert. Make a stop at Hypnotic Donuts for their widely acclaimed unique donuts and biscuits. Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer savory options, this spot has gained cult status among locals for good reason. Don’t forget to try their signature Elvis donut – a delightful mix of peanut butter, bacon, and banana.
Immerse Yourself in East Dallas's Art Scene
Art aficionados will find plenty to admire in East Dallas. Start with a visit to the Bath House Cultural Center, located on the shores of White Rock Lake. This art center offers rotating exhibitions, theater performances, and various workshops, providing a hub for creative engagement. Check out the White Rock Lake Artists Studio Tour for an inside look into the working spaces of local artists, an event cherished by those in the know.
If you’re looking to bring home a piece of East Dallas, head over to the eclectic Curiosities Antiques & Vintage. This shop not only offers a fantastic collection of antiques and vintage items but also features works by local artists. It’s the perfect spot to find a unique souvenir or a piece to add to your art collection.
Discover Hidden Gems in East Dallas
Locals often share a fondness for the lesser-known spots that give East Dallas its unique charm. The Treehouse is an architectural marvel hidden amongst the dense foliage of Little Forest Hills. It’s a fantastic spot for a peaceful retreat or for those Instagram-worthy photos. Another hidden gem is the Aldredge House on Swiss Avenue. This historical mansion provides a glimpse into the opulence of Dallas's past, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
Nature lovers should not miss the serene atmosphere of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. This 66-acre garden is known for its beautiful seasonal displays and themed gardens. It's a picturesque setting perfect for a relaxing picnic, leisurely stroll, or vibrant photoshoot amidst the floral beauty.
Stay in the Loop with East Dallas's Trending Topics
To keep your finger on the pulse of what’s trending in East Dallas, local insights and real opinions are invaluable. Platforms like Kikihub allow you to connect anonymously with locals, providing real-time information on trending eateries, hike spots, and upcoming events. For instance, the annual White Rock Lake Festival is a hot topic among locals, offering live music, food trucks, and artisan vendors. It’s an event you won’t want to miss if you're in town during its run.
Another trending attraction is the Ruby Room's Thursday trivia night. This cozy bar has become a local favorite, providing a perfect combination of challenging trivia, delicious drinks, and a lively atmosphere. It’s an excellent way to mingle with East Dallas residents and learn quirky facts about the area.
Explore East Dallas Like a Local
To truly explore East Dallas, one must embrace the eclectic nature of the neighborhood. The Santa Fe Trail serves as a favorite among locals for biking, jogging, or simply enjoying a scenic walk. The trail stretches from Deep Ellum to White Rock Lake, offering a perfect blend of urban and natural landscapes.
For a taste of local culture, spend your Saturday morning at the White Rock Farmers Market. Here, you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafted delicacies from local vendors. The market is more than just a place to shop; it’s a community gathering spot where you can meet local farmers, chefs, and artisans who are passionate about their work.
