Top Anonymous Recommendations in Downtown Dallas
Just Dallas Things
Welcome to the neighborhood, D.L. Mackāsšø This cozy Chicago-style tavern does not disappointšš¼ 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. ITāS SO GOOD. Cheers to many more nights at Mackāsš„āØ Ordered: Garlic Knots, Lemon Drop Martini, Beeās 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, Iāve been going ever since I was a little girlš” There is something about the smell of corn dogs frying and Big Tex waving āHowdy, Folks!ā that makes me feel at homeš My first stop is always Fletcherās to get the best corny dog on the planet. I know itās controversial, but Iām team mustard AND ketchupšā¤ļø Next I tried some 2022 food winners ~ if youāre 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 Bismolš¤Ŗ Try some new foods, ride the Ferris Wheel, play games & win big at the Midway, and end your night with the beautiful Illumination Sensation performancešš
Just Dallas Things
Itās not SMU Homecoming Weekend without a night out at Javierāsšø The staff is always extremely friendly and the atmosphere is so much fun! Iāve 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 š„ (literally!) Itās made with Rum, Kahlua, Brandy, Amaretto liqueur, Coffee, and homemade Whipped Cream. Itās delicious & the star of the show every timeāØ Minimum order of 2 but you wonāt regret it! Oh and if youāre looking for something to try in the cigar room, go for an Espresso Martini and a Vanilla Cigarš What are your Javierās favorites?
Dallas fun fam
Weekend at Klyde Warren Park š²FREE 9/28 | 12 - 2 PM | Build Your City by AD EX: Unleash your inner architect in this interactive lesson! šļøāļø š± 9/28 | 11 AM - 8 PM | Vegandale: Join us for a vibrant veganfest filled with delicious new foods to try! š®āØ ā 9/29 | 8 AM - 12 PM | Coffee & Cardio: Swing by The Salty for 50% off coffee for fitness goers! Donāt forget, we offer free fitness classes on the East Lawn every weekend! šļøāāļøā š¹ 9/29 | 11 AM - 2 PM | Piano in the Park: Come play the piano and share your musical talent with us! š¶š³ š· 9/29 | 2 - 3 PM | Jazz Becuzz: Relax and enjoy an afternoon of jazz and spoken word performances! š¤š· See you in the Park!
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
NATUUR || DALLAS š š WHAT THEYāRE KNOWN FOR: having Erewhon smoothie ādupesā. News flash- itās not really a dupe they just have the iconic coconut cream inside which makes it similar. However, their smoothies are so good in their own way!!! š THE VIBE: sooo cute inside! There are a few tables inside. Thereās red smiley faces inside and itās very simple grab and go. š PRICE: ~$30 (half price smoothies during happy hour 2pm-4pm on weekdays) š WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! ā¢ā¢ā¢ā¢ Overall Rating: 9/10 - Iāve been hearing that the strawberry wave from here is the Hailey Bieber smoothie dupe and as someone who has had it from Erewhon- it is NOT a dupe- however itās still really delicious! - Thereās a reason Erewhon charges $25 for a smoothie because they have a whole bunch of sea moss, vitamins, elixirs in their smoothies. - However, smoothies are still really good despite not having as many of those ingredients and way more affordable at $9 a smoothie and even cheaper during happy hour when you buy 2! - I want to go back for sure and try more of their smoothies and smoothie bowls! The employees are very nice and everything is super fresh and tastes really good. - The lemonberry had the slightest taste of lemon itās very good and creamy! The mellow mango has a strong ginger taste but tastes super fresh and healthy! The strawberry wave tastes like a typical tropical strawberry smoothie but it was super refreshing too.
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
JOE LEOāS TEX MEX: Great food and a solid Tex Mex place! š š WHAT THEYāRE KNOWN FOR: Iām not sure but it seems to be a local Dallas staple for years now. I only just found out about it. Itās pretty cute inside. Chips and salsa were fire >>> š THE VIBE: pretty casual, laid back, local Dallas vibes. š PRICE: ~$22 + $5 tip (my beef taco salad only) š WOULD I COME BACK? Yes. ā¢ā¢ā¢ā¢ Overall Rating: 8.5/10 - This is definitely a solid place to grab lunch or dinner! If youāre 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 friendās 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! Iāve had wagamama many times before since I lived near one when I was in NYC. Itās 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 youād like to go with! FYI - Thereās free parking! They can validate parking for 2.5 hours in the building garage.
See also
Top Dining Spots in West Dallas: Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Places
The Dallas Morning News
Food From Galilee Nestled in University Parkās 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 Beastās brunch gets into the game with a bazlama, a relative of a Middle Eastern flatbread. Itās folded around the restaurantās own sage breakfast sausage, eggs, arugula, and Thomasville Tomme, a tangy aged cheese made from raw cowās milk. The result is big enough to shareāif 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 canāt 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. Itās a creamy summer delight, which is good, since seating here is in the great (shaded) outdoors.
Dallas Magazine
Turkey sandwich, Encina Encinaās 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? Thereās 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 canāt 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. Itās 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 jalapeƱo condiment. Itās the model of a breakfast sandwich. I like it so much, I ate it outdoors.
Dallas Magazine
Ariās 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, āI opened this place because I was tired of driving to Jimmyās.ā His little shop doesnāt 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 Ariās 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 salamiāplus expert staff advice on topping combos. Got some pizza dough and leftover broccoli? Theyāll help you find the perfect cheese. Secret Weapon: You might be offered a free bundle of fresh herbs with your purchase.
See alsoDiscover the Vibrant Community in West Dallas: Local Insights, Events, and Anonymous Discussions
Dallas Hidden Gems
We just checked out the Operators Club in the West End historic districtās 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 āOperatorsā 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
Shania dfw.topsites
ANTOJIITOS MENTIIRAS is definitely a must-visit! They serve up mouthwatering āantojitos,ā also known as tasty Mexican street food! Their corn in a cup (topped with hot cheeto, takis, or traditional toppings) is outstanding ā 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. š½š„
Dallas fun fam
š Colorful New Indoor Playground in DFW: bb pinata in Dallasš Why we love it: ā¤ļø BB PiƱata is a super cute and colorful new indoor playground in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas! ā¤ļø Kids will love the soft play area, imaginative play houses, plus an area with coloring pages and toys! ā¤ļø This spot felt super clean and chill on a weekday morning. Good to know: -Admission is $18.99 for an all-day play pass that allows you to come and go! - Socks are required for kids and adults! If you or your kiddo forget them, they have socks available for purchase. - Iād say this spot is best for kids ages 2-7 who enjoy imaginative play and donāt need huge climbing structures to get their energy out. My 4 year old daughter LOVED it and was not ready to leave after two hours. - There was plenty of street parking here, but it is metered. On a weekday morning I only payed 85 cents for two hour parking, but itās probably a bit more on weekends. - Hours are Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 6 PM, Saturday: 9 AM - 7 PM, Sunday: 9 AM - 6 PM
STEPHANIE
A friend recommended this spot to me and she was absolutely right š«¶š¾āØ Plomo Quesadillas Bar is a new quesadilla bar in Dallas that is the perfect spot for a quick, quality bite! Theyāre open late every day and stay open until 4am on the weekends! š Iām 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 itās easy to stop by! š„ Hands down, I recommend the CHORIZO MAC AND CHEESE and the QUESO! For quesadillas, thereās only two rules: add Doritos and ask them to make it dirty! Otherwise, you canāt go wrong with any option! š®
Dallas Magazine
Thursdays on Tap On the hunt for a date night? Head to the Perot Museum for another Thursday on Tap, to experience the museum after hours. The event will include food trucks, live performances, and access to current exhibitions. Plus, get full access to the Museum and all our exhibit halls, including our traveling exhibition, T. rex: The Ultimate Predator (through September 22). This program is for ages 21+, so whether youāre looking for a fun date night or a unique place to meet up with friends or coworkers, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the Museum without the daytime crowds or kids (we love them, but Thursday nights belong to YOU). August 15, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
STEPHANIE
One of my personal favs! āØ 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! šš¾ This spot opens at 11am, so itās perfect for a lunch date or an evening in the city! The menu is full of Italian favorites and Iāve yet to try a dish I donāt like here! š„ I highly recommend the RIGATONI PASTA & the BOLOGNESE PASTA. Both are amazing! š I also recommend asking to sit along the windows. Itās a ground level view, and such a nice vibe while eating āļø This a great spot for a date night, girlās night, or to grab a solo drink in the city! šø
The Dallas Morning News
Thrillers, documentaries and kabuki: The inside scoop on this yearās Asian Film Festival of Dallas The Asian Film Festival of Dallas kicks off its 4-day run at Dallasā Angelika Theater on Thursday. The festival returns to the basics in this 23rd edition delivering over two dozen drama, action, thriller and documentary films about Asians and Asian Americans. Thomas Schubert, executive director of the festival, gives us the inside scoop on this yearās festivities including opening night, filmmakers in attendance and his ācanāt missā picks which include a swashbuckling kabuki play captured on film. The 23rd annual Asian Film Festival of Dallas will take place between July 25th-28th.
See alsoNetworking Events & Socializing in West Dallas: Trending Community Gatherings & Local Insights
The Dallas Morning News
Me Enloteces, Dallasā all-pink elote stand, debuts new location in Bishop Arts. Me Enloteces, the Dallas elote stand that became a social media sensation by offering everything in pink, has debuted a new fixed location in Bishop Arts. With nearly 18,000 followers on Instagram, this small elote shop had offered its food in Dallas and other cities at a mobile stand for months. Now, they have an establishment with a patio. āIt fills my heart so much to see our customers come in and sit down to enjoy their afternoon with friends or family,ā said Aidee Del Villar, owner of Me Enloteces. āThis achievement is not only ours, but also theirs because they always supported us, and now we can offer them a space where they can enjoy themselves.ā
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 restaurantās 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 youāve stepped back in time, and itās 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 Timesā Castles have since entertained more than 72 million guests.
Dallas Love List
š¦THE ONLY BUTTERFLY GARDEN IN DALLAS We know itās hot outside, but donāt worry this 2-story butterfly house complex is indoors!āØ Butterfly House + Garden is a non-profit organization featuring butterflies from all over the world as well as garden trains and replica historic buildings, the snake & reptile shack, the 1936 historic Worldās Fair Centennial House, an outdoor childrenās playscape featuring a rock climbing wall, a rope bridge, sandbox, ponds and fountains!šš¦ Open daily 10AM - 5PM
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Perched on top of the classic hotel The Statler in downtown Dallas, the beautiful Waterproof is a pool bar by day and a rooftop lounge by night. Both stylish indoor lounge and open-air terrace, where the outside part offers both a refreshing rooftop pool and panoramic views over the Dallas skyline. Visit for sunny and relaxing afternoon cocktails, or come for the nightly, more swanky and vibrant atompshere. During the colder months, the terrace turns into Winterproof, with some really cool and cosy rooftop igloos.
Dallas Love List
ā¾ļø OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - VISIT THE MLB LIFE EXPERIENCE AT ALL-STAR VILLAGE THIS WEEK IN ARLINGTON ā¾ļøāØ If you havenāt heard yet, Arlington is home to the 2024 Major League Baseball All Star Week. Even if you donāt have tickets to the Derby or All-Star game, you can still visit the MLBLife space at Esports Stadium, as a part of the All-Star Village Fan Festival. The MLB Life Experience features live music performances, unique ballpark food, panel discussions with artists and player fashion stylists, The Show mini game competitions, Home Run Derby VR booths, custom sneaker customization, interactive art and so much more. For only $35, you can access this space and other fun All-Star Village activations! MLB Life at Esports Stadium and All Star Village are open July 14th 10am - 8pm, and July 15th-16th from 10am - 6pm.
See alsoCocktails in West Dallas: Top Local Cocktail Bars, Trending Rooftop Bars, and Nightlife Insights on Kikihub
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
At the 19th-floor of the Statler Hotel, a true Dallas icon, you find the exclusive indoor/outdoor urban oasis the Waterproof bar and pool. Here you can swim with an epic panoramic view of surrounding downtown Dallas and enjoy delicious cocktails and bites. Waterproof is open for everyone, but to access the pool you need to make a reservation for a cabana. As the sun sets the energy picks up with life DJ entertainment, bottle service and ever more impeccable views. There is also an outdoor resort-style pool on the 4th floor, called The Statler Pool, offering loungers, cabanas and a relaxing experience.
Discover Food Gems in Downtown Dallas
One of the most exciting aspects of Downtown Dallas is its vibrant food scene. For those craving authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, āEl Fenixā is a local favorite. Established in 1918, this iconic restaurant offers mouth-watering dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and their famous tortilla soup. For a more upscale experience, don't miss āCBD Provisions,ā a trendy brasserie known for its Texas-inspired cuisine, including their remarkable Berkshire pork chops and fresh seafood options. Locals swear by the house-made charcuterie as well, which pairs perfectly with one of their exceptional craft cocktails.
If youāre searching for a unique, off-the-beaten-path dining experience, head over to āThe Wild Detectives.ā This quirky spot combines a bookshop, a bar, and a light bites cafe, offering a unique atmosphere for food and literature lovers. Their avocado toast and freshly brewed coffee receive rave local reviews, making it a perfect place for brunch or a casual hangout.
Immerse Yourself in Downtown Dallas Entertainment
Downtown Dallas is teeming with entertainment options that cater to all tastes. The Dallas Arts District is a must-visit, especially for culture enthusiasts. Spanning 68 acres, it is home to world-class venues like the Dallas Museum of Art, Winspear Opera House, and the Meyerson Symphony Center. Don't miss out on the local secret of free admission on Wednesdays at the Dallas Museum of Art, allowing you to explore extensive art collections without spending a dime.
For those interested in live performances, the AT&T Performing Arts Center is the go-to place. Hosting a variety of events from Broadway shows to intimate concerts, this center is a cornerstone of downtown entertainment. Trending suggestions by locals include catching a show at the Moody Performance Hall, known for its eclectic mix of contemporary performances ranging from dance to experimental theatre.
Explore Nightlife Hotspots in Downtown Dallas
When the sun sets, Downtown Dallas comes alive with its dynamic nightlife scene. If youāre in search of a laid-back evening, āMidnight Ramblerā is an anonymous recommendation by locals for its speakeasy vibe. Nestled in the basement of The Joule Hotel, it offers crafted cocktails and a cozy ambiance thatās perfect for winding down.
For an experience bursting with energy, āHappiest Hourā is another top local choice. With a spacious rooftop patio and stunning views of the city skyline, itās an ideal spot for socializing and enjoying a vibrant atmosphere. They boast an extensive drink menu and delectable bar bites, making it a prime venue for mingling and meeting new friends.
If underground music scenes pique your interest, āThree Linksā in Deep Ellum, just a short drive from downtown, is celebrated for its live music shows featuring indie, punk, and rock bands. According to local reviews, the intimate venue and eclectic line-up make it a cultural gem worth exploring.
Gain Local Insights Through Anonymous Chats
For the freshest local insights and real opinions, check out the Kikihub website, a unique platform for anonymous chats about Downtown Dallas. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident looking for something new, engaging with locals through Kikihub can offer invaluable insider tips. From trending suggestions on pop-up events to secret spots only locals know about, this innovative resource provides a wealth of information at your fingertips.
Users frequently share anonymous recommendations on hidden gems, such as the lesser-known āKlyde Warren Park.ā This urban green space built over a freeway offers a serene escape with regular free events, food trucks, and even a dog park, making it a favorite among those in the know. Another local secret is āDeep Ellum Brewing Company,ā where one can discover craft beers made with passion and dedication frequently lauded in local reviews.
Uncover Unique Experiences with Kikihub
Beyond food and nightlife, Kikihub is indispensable for uncovering unique experiences in Downtown Dallas. One intriguing spot that locals recommend is the āGiant Eyeball,ā a 30-foot tall sculpture that serves as a quirky photo op and conversation piece. Situated in a private garden, itās accessible to those who know where to look.
If you're an art aficionado, local insights suggest visiting āMurals in Deep Ellum,ā where vibrant street art transforms the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. Frequent chats on Kikihub highlight these murals as must-see attractions, giving you an authentic feel for the city's creative spirit.
By leveraging Kikihubās anonymous chats, you can find trending suggestions for spontaneous adventures. One such adventure is the āDallas Trolley Tour,ā which offers a scenic and historical overview of the downtown area. Locals appreciate the hop-on-hop-off format, allowing you to explore various points of interest like the JFK Memorial Plaza at your own pace.
