8 Must-Visit Restaurants in Downtown Dallas, TX
With a rapidly evolving restaurant scene, Dallas has quickly jumped onto the map when it comes to cuisine. Dallas has always had the barbecue and steak scene on lock but now new restaurants are popping up to give the city, its residents, and even tourists a chance to see what the city is all about. Below are several, of what we believe to be, must-visit restaurants in Downtown Dallas for you to check out.
1. Bob’s Steak & Chop House
4300 Lemmon Ave., Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 528-9446
When you have steak on your mind – Bob’s is the place to be. A staple going back to 1993, Bob’s Steak & Chop House won’t blow you away with an adventurous menu, instead, they stick to what they know and do well – and that’s meat. They get you started with a delicious house-made loaf of bread that has a nice crust around it and is soft and airy on the inside. But you don’t go there for the bread – you go to Bob’s for their incredible meat that’s seasoned lightly and cooked to sheer perfection. Start with a bowl of their fantastic lobster bisque, and finish with one of their mouth-watering desserts. Bob’s Steak & Chop House is a dining experience, worth experiencing.
2. Lawry’s The Prime Rib
14655 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75254
(972) 503-6688
If you are a fan of dinner with a story – Lawry’s The Prime Rib is right up your alley. The story of the family and restaurant dates back all the way to the early 1880s before becoming what it is today. If you find yourself here, you certainly must have the mouth-watering prime rib, however, the other entrees are just as strong – also headlined by their delicious broiled Atlantic Lobster Trails Trio which comes with delightful herbed orzo pasta. Whether it be the lobster, the prime rib, or really anything on their menu – you can tell it is composed of only the highest quality of ingredients. At Lawry’s, you can really tell they care.
3. Al Biernat’s Dallas
4217 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 219-2201
After being trained at the historic The Palm in Beverly Hills, Al Biernat refined his craft before ultimately blessing us with another one of Dallas’s top steakhouses – Al Biernat’s. Whether you’re looking for a sensational steak or buttery succulent lobster this is another absolute gem to visit. If you’re looking for an absolutely decadent meal, start off with the chilled seafood tower before indulging in one of their steaks. Hesitating about choosing between steak and lobster? The Air, Land, & Sea comes with Texas quail, buffalo, tiger prawn, diver scallop, and a port wine foie gras demi. Al Biernat’s is also a bit unique as it’s a classic steakhouse that also has Vegan options as well led by a sensational grilled portabella enchilada. If you’re looking to really liven things up – get an order of the lobster macaroni and cheese to really complete the meal!
4. Café Momentum
1510 Pacific Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 303-1234
Café Momentum is a non-profit restaurant primarily staffed by at-risk youth seeking a culinary education. The restaurant teaches critical life skills to at-risk teen interns and allows them to grow in a nurturing environment while working side-by-side with established chefs. Café Momentum’s program is amazing, but their food is even better. Dishes are Southern-inspired and use fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. The smoked fried chicken dish here is outstanding: served with mashed potatoes, collard greens, a buttermilk biscuit, and black pepper gravy. The NY strip, sweet tea brined double-cut pork chop, and mac and cheese are also impeccable. Finish your meal off right with some delicious smores and savory fried pie. With a beautiful purpose for the community and great food, Café Momentum definitely belongs on our best restaurants in downtown Dallas restaurants list.
5. Texas Spice
555 S Lamar St, Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 652-4810
Texas Spice captures the true flavors of Texas and places an emphasis on fresh ingredients and southern-style food with a slight twist on hometown classics. With a farm-to-table concept, the freshest ingredients are used to craft the most tasty dishes. The rustic interior at Texas Spice makes this spot an ideal casual dining experience that is perfect for gathering with friends. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, tasty dining options here include entrees like french toast or Texas-style waffles for breakfast and chicken fried steak or deviled eggs for lunch or dinner. Stop by on Saturday and Sunday mornings for their breakfast buffet and you won’t be disappointed by the plethora of delicious options available. It is no wonder that Texas Spice is one of the best restaurants in downtown Dallas!
6. Partenope Ristorante
1903 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 463-6222
If you’re searching for some of the best pizza in Downtown Dallas, you need to check out Partenope Ristorante. This amazing pizzeria offers an impressive wine list and local beers, authentic and delicious Neapolitan pizza, and incredible pasta dishes. You can start your dining experience with the classic bruschetta and then go for the trifolata pizza as your entree, which is made with mozzarella, tomato sauce, Jimmy’s sausages, sweet drop peppers, mushrooms, and basil. If you’re more of a pasta person, you can never go wrong with the fusilli al pesto. Finish your meal on a high note with the savory tiramisu or limoncello panna cotta, and it’ll make your dining experience one you’ll never forget.
7. The Zodiac Room
1618 Main St Level Six, Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 573-5800
This upscale restaurant is perfect for a fancy lunch or dinner with the ladies. Located inside the original Neiman Marcus store, this fine dining spot serves up American favorites that you are sure to love. They get you started with the complimentary consommé with fresh popover and strawberry butter, however, if you’re feeling particularly hungry, be sure to also order the delectable pasta e fagioli soup. Continue your meal with the delicious sauteed salmon with brussel sprouts and farro. Not a huge fish fan? Try the Tuscan grilled chicken melt sandwich instead or the classic grilled cheese sandwich. Besides great food, The Zodiac Room also offers quite an impressive wine list.
8. CBD Provisions
1530 Main St STE 100, Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 261-4500
Located inside the Joule Hotel in downtown Dallas, CBD Provisions is a modern and upscale restaurant serving Texas style eats and fantastic cocktails and drinks. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu at CBD Provisions features seasonal produce, prime cuts, and signature Texas flavors in a stunning environment, making this spot perfect for any meal of the day. The famous Berkshire pig head carnitas are a must-try here and so are the Texas chilli and mussels frites. Don’t skimp out on the cocktails; Award-winning bartender Gabe Sanchez whips up the most tasty drinks. Try the spring fling with strawberry cured vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh pineapple, and ginger syrup, or the CBD swizzle with reposado tequila, pineapple amaro, fresh lime, and velvet falernum. Stop by for happy hour with select cocktails and wines for only $7 from 4 to 7 pm. With an emphasis on true southern hospitality, CBD Provisions is a must-try the next time you find yourself in downtown Dallas.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink around Dallas, check out our Dallas city page.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on November 10, 2020 and last updated on November 13, 2023.
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