Dallas, like most of the big cities in the US, boasts a thriving restaurant and bar scene. The “Big D” or “D-Town,” as locals call it, displays vibrant energy, culture, and diversity, which shines through the beloved gastronomic staples all across town. From trendy new hotspots to tried-and-true longtime favorites, these local restaurants dish up the best food in Dallas, Texas and should go on your culinary must-visit list as you decide where to grab a bite.

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Eat Your Way Through the Best of the Dallas Food Scene 

Breakfast & Brunch

San Martin Bakery 

Neighborhood: Uptown

You won’t regret starting your day by visiting this beloved Guatemalan bakery. The charming space, filled with tons of natural light and decked out with gorgeous greenery, serves up some of the best breakfasts and coffee in the city. They offer a huge selection of fresh pastries alongside classic Central American plates such as chilaquiles and motuleños. Uptown is the original location of San Martin Bakery, but a second one was recently added on the northwest side in Addison.

Beverly’s Bistro and Bar

Neighborhood: Oak Lawn / Design District

The impressive brunch at this upscale, bustling bistro showcases a wonderfully eclectic mix of Texan, French, and Jewish dishes inspired by places the acclaimed restauranteur behind Beverly’s Bistro has lived. Whether you choose fresh oysters on the half shell, a killer chicken schnitzel, or an exceptionally flavorful bowl of French onion soup, you can’t make a wrong selection here. Don’t forget to check out the extensive drink menu, complete with cocktails, mocktails, and an impressive selection of wine.  

Encina

Neighborhood: Oak Cliff

Encina serves up exceptional new American fare in laid-back, industrial-chic digs. They describe themselves as “uncomplicated yet adventurous,” taking creative approaches to classic dishes and executing them flawlessly. Don’t miss the blue corn pancakes or the bloody mary, featuring vodka infused with everything bagel seasoning.

Lunch

Terry Black’s BBQ 

Neighborhood: Deep Ellum

Texas takes barbecue seriously, and you’d be hard-pressed to find better than the legendary Terry Black’s. At this large and lively joint, as quintessentially Texas as it comes, the brisket is an absolute must-order. However, don’t miss out on a scoop of their heavenly banana pudding at the end of your meal. Just consider planning for a nap afterward!

Sachet

Neighborhood: Highland Park/Oak Lawn

This beautiful, bright lunch destination focuses on fresh Mediterranean flavors. Try a few of Sachet’s delectable starters to share family style. The must-order “salady” bowls combine simple yet elevated ingredients into a perfectly balanced meal sure to satisfy. The unusual Spanish gin and tonics feature their homemade tonic, a perfect and refreshing complement to your afternoon meal.

Dinner

Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen

Neighborhood: Lower Greenville

The innovative and authentic dishes offered by the woman-led team behind this swanky, modern Vietnamese restaurant earned them a coveted Bib Gourmand Award from Michelin. Start with one of their nearly ten different spring or egg roll offerings before digging into your Vietnamese curry or pho bowl. Ngon Vietnamese Kitchen is a culinary gem that lives up to the hype.

Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch

Neighborhood: Northeast

To get your Tex-Mex fix, head to this longtime staple. The owner of Mariano’s invented the frozen margarita in 1971, and they still mix up some of the best in Dallas. In addition to their margaritas, the locals adore their incredible salsas, mesquite-grilled fajitas, and house-made tortillas. The classic fare tastes flavorful, unpretentious, and simply delicious, the way Tex-Mex should. There are two Mariano’s locations in Dallas: one in the city’s Northeastern area and one in the North. 

Lucia

Neighborhood: Bishop Arts District

Lucia is located in a building that dates back to the 1920s, creating a rustic, intimate setting that accompanies its elevated but comforting Italian dishes. The menu changes frequently and focuses on seasonal ingredients, but you can expect to find a solid mix of creative and classic Italian offerings here. Their out-of-this-world plates of pasta alone would cause them to rank as a top-tier restaurant in Dallas, TX.

Dessert

Botolino Gelato

Neighborhood: Bishop Arts District, multiple locations

To satisfy your sweet tooth, head to Botolino for the best artisanal gelato in Dallas. Their flavors range from classic chocolate and vanilla to more complex creations like Egyptian rose mascarpone and figs. Absolute quality is the name of the game here, and you can taste the difference. They also offer a variety of other sugary confections, such as cakes and affogato, plus several rotating dairy-free sorbetto options. 

Chocolate Secrets 

Neighborhood: Oak Lawn

There’s no better way to round out a glorious, beautiful evening than digging into an assortment of bonbons, truffles, macaroons, and cakes while enjoying live music and a glass of wine. Chocolate Secrets‘ cozy ambiance is outdone only by its seriously divine sweets in creative flavors like ancho chili, PB&J, and Rosemary Caramel.

Drinks

Apothecary

Neighborhood: Lower Greenville

This easy-to-miss, speakeasy-style lounge tucked away next to Rye will blow you away with their creative cocktails. You can expect the unexpected from their carefully curated seasonal menus, but they will never disappoint. As a bonus, Apothecary offers several mocktails that are just as fun and tasty as their boozy counterparts.

Swizzle

Neighborhood: Swiss Avenue

You’ll forget you’re still in the heart of Texas as soon as you enter this whimsical island-inspired bar. Swizzle concocts delicious drinks in festive digs, from classic tiki cocktails to their specialty creations (one of which they serve in a spam can!). Whether you crave a tropical escape or just a strong drink, don’t miss this spot. 

Enjoy the Best Food in Dallas, Texas 24/7

Now that you’ve got a taste of Dallas’s culinary scene, it’s time to find the perfect place to call home. From a quiet escape to an exciting urban space, our housing experts at AptAmigo know how to navigate Dallas’s diverse neighborhoods to find the perfect apartment for you at the best price. Trust us to do the heavy lifting, and we’ll find you a home you’ll love coming back to.

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