Carrollton Hotspots: Unveiling Top Local Dining Secrets
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 Hidden Gems
Dumont Little Elm Cafe Dumont opened their new cafe that offers the trifecta = bubble tea, coffee, and ice cream! Enjoy handmade ice cream with international flavors, ranging from Hokey Pokey (Australian) to Kheer (Indian). If you’re looking to quench your thirst, they also offer freshly made espresso drinks + bubble teas! Food Deets: - Iced Latte ($5.45) - Affogato ($6.75) - Ice Cream ($3.99 - $6.99) - Bubble Tea / Fruit Tea ($5.95)
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.
See also
Dining in Little Elm: Trending Spots, Foodie Favorites, and Local Insights Near Dallas
McKinney Local List
We checked out the new Crimson Coward Crimson Coward is a Nashville hot chicken place, and wow, the spice levels are no joke! Mild was perfect for my kiddo, and medium was plenty for me. The Crimson sandwich was perfect—I loved the slaw. The fried onion had a lovely light batter, and the fries had perfect seasoning and came in a large portion. You can’t bring a kiddo here and not get the mac and cheese. It’s so velvety, creamy, and delicious.
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.
See alsoCommunity in Little Elm: Anonymous Discussions, Trending Topics, and More
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.
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.
Dallas fun fam
🌟 Indoor Play Area in DFW: Play street museum🌟 Why we love it: ❤️ Play Street Museum is a toddler friendly children’s museum and indoor play area! This location is inspired by the city of Frisco. 🤩 ❤️ Little ones can explore a variety of playhouses! They can pretend to work in a veterinarian office, an ice cream shop, and be a firefighter! ❤️ This is also a great spot for indoor birthday parties! You can easily book weekday and weekend parties online. ❤️ Add on experiences like the Slime Lab, Canvas Painting, or Pottery to your visit! Good to know: - Playtime is booked on a reservation basis to ensure a safe environment with regular sanitization between sessions! Make sure to book in advance as time slots can sell out.
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.
See alsoLocal Networking Events in Little Elm Near Dallas: Trending Community Gatherings & Socializing Insights
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.
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!
See alsoBest Cocktails in Little Elm Near Dallas: Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Nightlife | Kikihub
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.
Minnie
Korean aunties just know how to make the best Korean food 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. I’ve had Mamas Kitchen on my list for a while and finally had the chance to stop by. Their side dishes are sooo good. No wonder they start selling it to go. If you’re looking for good food, a no fuss kind of place - this is it!
Discover the Best Local Restaurants in Carrollton
If you're hunting for the ultimate dining experiences near Dallas, look no further than Carrollton. This charming suburb is brimming with trendy spots that cater to foodies eager to uncover hidden culinary gems. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxed brunch or a sophisticated dinner complete with cocktails, Carrollton offers an array of options that will leave your taste buds tantalized.
The Food Scene in Downtown Carrollton
Downtown Carrollton is the epicenter of local restaurants, offering a mix of new hotspots and longtime favorites. A standout here is Babe’s Chicken Dinner House. Known for its family-style service and mouth-watering fried chicken, it's a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience comfort food at its finest. For a trendy night out, try Twisted Root Burger Co.. Their gourmet burgers and eclectic decor attract a vibrant crowd, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and fun nights out.
Unmissable Brunch Spots
Weekend brunches in Carrollton are more than just meals—they're an event. Jam + Toast is a local favorite featuring classic American breakfast dishes with a twist. Think fluffy pancakes, farm-fresh omelets, and their famous avocado toast. For those seeking international flavors, Rodeo Goat offers a Tex-Mex inspired brunch buffet. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails for a truly unforgettable experience.
Dine with Local Flair
If it's unique local insights and hidden gems you're after, Zenna Thai & Japanese Restaurant should be on your radar. Serving an extensive menu that masterfully blends Thai and Japanese cuisines, Zenna offers a relaxed ambiance with a hint of exotic flair. For an immersive dining experience, ask the locals about their less-known sushi rolls and specialty dishes. Another hotspot, Cane Rosso, offers artisan pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, using recipes passed down through generations.
Sophisticated Dinner Options
When night falls, Carrollton transforms into a haven for sophisticated dining. EG Steak, a Brazilian steakhouse, is perfect for a romantic evening or celebratory feast. Their rodízio-style service means an endless stream of grilled meats, ensuring you'll leave fully satisfied. For a touch of Mediterranean elegance, Ziziki’s offers authentic Greek dishes like lamb souvlaki and spanakopita, paired with fine wines from their extensive list.
Chic Cocktails and Craft Beers
No dining experience is complete without a visit to Carrollton's local bars and cocktail lounges. The Tavern is an upscale bar known for their meticulously crafted cocktails and wide selection of craft beers. This spot provides local insights into Carrollton's burgeoning nightlife scene. Another gem is Sidecar Social, where you can enjoy innovative drinks, live music, and even retro arcade games. And for those who appreciate a classic setting, The Old Crow is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and expertly mixed cocktails, making it a staple for locals in the know.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking to explore new dining experiences, Carrollton's local restaurants offer something for everyone. Seek out these vibrant locales and you'll quickly see why this suburb near Dallas is a must-visit culinary destination.
