Explore Plano's Hidden Dining Gems

Discover the hidden culinary gems of Plano, just a stone's throw away from Dallas, with exclusive insights from Kikihub's vibrant local community. Unveil the best-kept secrets of trending local restaurants and unforgettable dining experiences, from swanky dinner spots to charming brunch escapes. Indulge in gourmet delights with insider tips that highlight must-try menu items and one-of-a-kind signature cocktails. Get authentic foodie recommendations and honest reviews that only locals can provide, ensuring your next meal is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you're a brunch enthusiast or a dinner aficionado, our platform offers a peek into Plano's dining scene's heart, complete with local insights you won't find anywhere else. Unleash the foodie in you and explore Plano through the lens of those who know it best, making every meal a culinary adventure.

This is a Dallas hidden gem 😍.
It’s a super cute Alice in Wonderland inspired brunch spot with amazing food.

I see why the lines out the door, like every plate we ordered was so good. Our favorites: avocado toast, salmon benedict, and their tacos. They have freshly squeezed juices and a full cocktail bar. The espresso martini and mango passion mimosa are a must! But honestly you can’t go wrong with any of their drinks. It’s definitely one of my favorite brunch spots especially when the service, food, and drinks all hit the marks.

Minnie

September 19, 2024 17:33

This is a Dallas hidden gem 😍. It’s a super cute Alice in Wonderland inspired brunch spot with amazing food. I see why the lines out the door, like every plate we ordered was so good. Our favorites: avocado toast, salmon benedict, and their tacos. They have freshly squeezed juices and a full cocktail bar. The espresso martini and mango passion mimosa are a must! But honestly you can’t go wrong with any of their drinks. It’s definitely one of my favorite brunch spots especially when the service, food, and drinks all hit the marks.

At Nico’s grill & bar, adults can enjoy delicious Mexican food while kids play on the enclosed playground!
This family-friendly restaurant is an excellent choice for parent of young kids who have a hard time sitting still. Weekend brunch features an omelette bar, fresh waffles, plus specials on mimosas and Bloody Marys.

Dallas fun fam

July 22, 2024 08:16

At Nico’s grill & bar, adults can enjoy delicious Mexican food while kids play on the enclosed playground! This family-friendly restaurant is an excellent choice for parent of young kids who have a hard time sitting still. Weekend brunch features an omelette bar, fresh waffles, plus specials on mimosas and Bloody Marys.

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! ✨

STEPHANIE

August 6, 2024 15:57

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! ✨

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.

The Dallas Morning News

August 25, 2024 17:28

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.

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.

VICTORIA northtx.gemz

October 3, 2024 15:46

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.

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?

Just Dallas Things

October 12, 2024 18:19

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?

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

October 16, 2024 07:58

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

Discover the Hidden Gems of Local Restaurants in Plano Near Dallas

Unique Dining Experiences You Can't Miss

Nestled just a stone's throw from Dallas, Plano offers an array of dining experiences that every foodie must explore. From local favorites that have been serving for decades to the new, trendy spots making waves, this area is brimming with hidden gems. For brunch lovers, be sure to hit up the popular 'Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar,' where the farm-to-kitchen ethos brings fresh, delightful flavors to the table. Your taste buds will thank you for the house-made fluffy pancakes and fresh-squeezed juices. Plano's downtown area is particularly rich in unassuming yet exceptional eateries. For a truly local experience, swing by 'Jorg's Cafe Vienna,' an Austrian bistro that offers hearty meals and an inviting atmosphere. Indulge in their famous Wiener Schnitzel, served with a side of traditional potato salad, and soak in the European charm in the heart of Texas.

Best Spots for Dinner and Cocktails

For those looking for a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere for a dinner date or night out, consider 'Sixty Vines.' Located in the charming Shops at Legacy, it’s not just a restaurant but a spot for the perfect night out with its extensive wine-on-tap options. Pair your glass of rosé with their artisanal pizzas or enjoy the roasted half chicken with a rich pan jus. A lesser-known spot well worth the visit is 'Urban Crust', an upscale pizza place with a rooftop bar that offers sweeping views of the city. Perfect for those who enjoy a good cocktail with their meal, this restaurant offers a robust cocktail menu. Don’t miss their signature ‘Urban Amaretto Sour,’ a delightful blend that captures both sweet and sour notes perfectly.

Top Brunch Spots for Weekends

Brunch in Plano can be a delightful experience filled with local flavors and creative dishes. 'XO Coffee Company' in downtown Plano not only serves some of the best coffee in the area but also dishes out delectable brunch options, like the Avocado Toast topped with poached eggs and crispy bacon. For a more casual vibe, 'Bavette Grill' offers American bistro cuisine and a brunch menu that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. Their Chicken & Waffles, drizzled with maple syrup and served with a side of fruit, are a must-try. Another hot spot for a brunch outing is 'The Biscuit Bar'—as playful as its name suggests. Their biscuits come in all forms, whether smothered in gravy, sandwiched with crispy chicken, or sweetened with butter and jam. Their Mimosa flight, a trio of creatively flavored mimosas, adds the perfect touch to your mid-morning gathering.

Spill the Local Dining Secrets

Locals often head to 'Love & War in Texas,' a venue that combines excellent Texan food with live music. This spot isn’t just about dining; it’s a cultural experience celebrating all things Texas, from steaks to Tex-Mex specialties. For real local lore, try the Wild Boar Quesadillas—a dish you won’t easily find elsewhere. When craving Asian cuisine, insiders will point you toward 'Kura Revolving Sushi Bar.' It’s not just about the quality sushi; the fun aspect of picking your plate off a conveyer belt adds a unique element to the dining experience. Their dessert options, like the mochi ice cream, offer a sweet finish to your meal.

Popular Yet Underrated Places

While places like 'Mexican Sugar' get a lot of love for their ambiance and handcrafted cocktails, there are plenty of other noteworthy spots that don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. 'Holy Grail Pub,' for instance, serves some of the best gastro-pub fare in the area. Their Truffle Fries and the Irish Mule cocktail are local favorites, making this place a revered spot among Plano’s dining elites. Another underrated gem is 'The Keeper.' This seafood haven focuses on sustainability, and the freshness of their dishes reflects it. Frequent visitors rave about the Grilled Octopus and their extensive cocktail menu, offering a drink to complement every dish.

Gastronomic Hubs in the Area

The Kura Revolving Sushi Bar often steals the show, but 'Kirin Court' is where savvy locals go for genuine dim sum. With food carts wheeling around laden with various types of dumplings, buns, and rolls, this place offers a festivity of flavors. It's the type of hidden secret that foodies live for—a place where the gastronomic traditions of a culture can be savored in every bite. Lastly, for a fine dining experience that remains largely under wraps, try 'CraftWay Kitchen.' This new addition to Plano’s dining scene offers sophisticated dishes that balance creativity with comfort. Their weekend prime rib special draws a loyal crowd, and their crafted cocktails have gained a steady following. Get the insiders' scoop on what’s trending and indulge in a richer dining experience in Plano by exploring these under-the-radar spots. The varied dining landscape of Plano, near Dallas, offers something for everyone, from brunch enthusiasts and dinner connoisseurs to cocktail aficionados and those simply looking for local insights on great places to eat.