Highland Park's Best-Kept Restaurant Secrets
Paige
👀Enjoyed the lounge at Sweet Tooth and the art exhibit! 🎇 It's Showtime - Tropical citrus and pineapple combo that'll make sparks fly! 💜 My Whole Life is a Dark Room - Mescal base with some fruity notes and a shrunken head of course. 💚 The Beetlejuice - Our classic green cocktail with hints of melon, citrus, and pineapple (you'll wanna keep an eye out for this one 👁️). 🔥Headless Manhattan - Spooky twist on the espresso martini featuring pumpkin and flames!
Just Dallas Things
I feel like good service & quality food has been a little hard to find in Dallas these days! One of my favorite spots for lunch & brunch is definitely an exception🍝 James at Al Biernat's Oak Lawn took excellent care of us today and the food was amazing as always👏🏼 Most people think of Al Biernat’s as a fancy dinner spot, but you should definitely give it a try during the day! The prices are great and the food will have you coming back week after week☕️✨ Ordered: Bread Basket with Whipped Herb Butter, Brad’s Grilled Pear Salad, Tortilla Soup, Wild Boar Bolognese, Latte with House-Made Biscotti Want to Try Next: Escargots & Tortellini, Herb Roasted Chicken, Lump Crab Angel Hair Pasta
Just Dallas Things
It’s not SMU Homecoming Weekend without a night out at Javier’s🍸 The staff is always extremely friendly and the atmosphere is so much fun! I’ve 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 🔥 (literally!) It’s made with Rum, Kahlua, Brandy, Amaretto liqueur, Coffee, and homemade Whipped Cream. It’s delicious & the star of the show every time✨ Minimum order of 2 but you won’t regret it! Oh and if you’re looking for something to try in the cigar room, go for an Espresso Martini and a Vanilla Cigar😘 What are your Javier’s favorites?
VICTORIA northtx.gemz
DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD || DALLAS 🍸 🍒 WHAT THEY’RE KNOWN FOR: the coldest martinis, steaks, and pastas! They have a such a unique menu to choose from. 🍒 THE VIBE: old Hollywood vibes. They do have a dress code they would like you to adhere to but I find that they’re not actually strict about it. 🍒 PRICE: ~$90 + $20 tip 🍒 WOULD I COME BACK? Yes! Second time here. •••• Overall Rating: 11/10 - This is probably my favorite special occasion restaurant of all time because every time I come here I’m just obsessed with the food and ambiance! The service is always a 10/10 too. - They have the best martinis- my personal favorite are the French 75 (tastes like a light sparkling lemon drop) and the espresso martini WITH reposado tequila (you gotta ask for the tequila!). - Omg…. YOU HAVE TO TRY THE OZZY PIZZA. It’s absolutely delicious. The steak on it was cooked perfectly and this is the perfect size for two people or to share amongst a larger group so you can enjoy the other dishes. - The salmon crispy rice was pretty average but honestly I love any sushi and I was craving it so it satisfied my craving! - Overall, DRAKE’S HOLLYWOOD you’ll see me again!!! A classic old Dallas staple.
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.
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.
STEPHANIE
Local Tap And Table is a Cajun restaurant in Dallas that sits on the Katy Trail. Most people know it for brunch, but they also have a really great dinner menu and a good vibe during the week! 🥂 They also launched new food items, and as always, everything was spot on. Some of my favorites were: 🦞 Fried Crawfish Ravioli 🍝 Pontchartrain Pasta 🥖 Crawfish Bread 🍜 Birria Ramen 🍹 Bacardi Mango Chile Fever Parking is free during the week! There’s a run club called runitup that meets here on Tuesdays! It’s free to join, but it does get packed, so if you want a more chill vibe, come any other day during the week! ✨
See also
Top Dining Spots in West Dallas: Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Places
Discovering Local Dining Gems in Highland Park, Dallas
Highland Park, a charming enclave near the bustling city of Dallas, is known for its upscale aura and vibrant dining scene. If you’re a foodie looking for the best local restaurants, you’ll find that Highland Park has a culinary treasure trove that promises to satisfy even the most discerning palates. This guide peels back the layers of Highland Park’s dining experiences, revealing those hidden gems that create unforgettable memories. Whether you're planning for brunch, dinner, or a night of cocktails, these local insights will help you navigate the epicurean landscape of this Dallas neighborhood.
Trending Local Restaurants
One of the hottest spots in Highland Park's dining scene is Flora Street Café. This trendy restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie, famed for its inventive dishes that blend traditional Tex-Mex with contemporary flair. Its cozy interior combined with impeccable service makes it an ideal choice for both casual dining and special occasions.
Another trending restaurant that consistently impresses is Taverna, an Italian eatery renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas. Nestled in Highland Park Village, this cozy spot is perfect for brunch. Recommendations from locals frequently highlight their truffle fries and duck ravioli as must-try items.
Exceptional Brunch Spots
Start your weekend with a delightful brunch at Rise n°1, a French-inspired soufflé bistro that's been a staple in the community. This charming spot transports you to a Parisian café with its whimsical decor and exceptional soufflés. Whether you opt for a savory ham and Gruyère soufflé or a sweet Grand Marnier version, the experience is divine.
For a perfect lazy Sunday brunch, Park House is an exclusive member-only club that offers one of the best brunch experiences in Highland Park. Although access requires membership, catching an invite is worth it for the luxurious atmosphere and an extensive menu featuring mouth-watering avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, and gourmet omelets.
Dinner Destinations
Dinner in Highland Park is a magical experience, with numerous options that cater to various tastes. The Honor Bar, located in Highland Park Village, stands out for its sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Their famous Ding’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Honor Burger, combined with hand-cut fries, crafted cocktails, and a wide selection of wines, make it a go-to dinner destination.
For an upscale dining experience, Al Biernat’s is an institution. Known for its exquisite steak and seafood offerings, Al Biernat’s has been serving the Highland Park community with distinction. Patrons routinely rave about the crab cakes, lobster risotto, and prime rib, all of which make for a memorable dinner outing. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass from their extensive wine list.
Craft Cocktails and Lounges
If cocktails are on the agenda, The Mansion Bar at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek should be your go-to. With its opulent décor and expertly crafted cocktails, it’s an elegant escape for those looking to unwind. Locals commend the bar's signature drinks, like the Mansion G&T and the Bishop Smash, as well as their impressive assortment of premium spirits.
Another local favorite is Le Bilboquet, a chic bistro that’s a great spot for both dinner and drinks. This Highland Park staple offers an elegant ambiance and a refined take on French cuisine. Their cocktail menu is exceptional, featuring classics like the French 75 and unique creations like the Cucumber Martini. It's the ideal spot to sip and savor your evening.
Local Insights and Hidden Gems
While well-known establishments are certainly worth visiting, Highland Park is also home to several lesser-known gems favored by locals. One such place is Nonna, a cozy Italian eatery that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tucked away from the more tourist-heavy areas, Nonna is celebrated for its artisanal pizzas and fresh, house-made pasta dishes. The grilled octopus and the tagliatelle Bolognese are local favorites.
For those seeking a more eclectic experience, Trinity Hall Irish Pub presents a welcoming environment with an impressive selection of international beers and traditional Irish fare. Locals appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and regular live music performances, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a pint with friends.
A Foodie's Paradise
Highland Park's culinary scene is diverse and full of personality. From trendy hotspots and elegant eateries to hidden gems and exclusive clubs, there's something to suit every mood and preference. The neighborhood's charm, combined with its array of delectable dining options, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of Dallas’s culinary offerings. So, the next time you find yourself in Highland Park, let these local insights guide your dining adventures and uncover the true flavors of this sophisticated Dallas neighborhood.
