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The Absolute Best Restaurants Near Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX

DL Mack’s
Olivella’s
Red Stix
Kuby’s
Knife
Inside DL Mack's in Dallas, TX
DL Mack’s
Margherita Pizza at Olivella's Pizza and Wine in Dallas, TX
Olivella’s
Sandwich from Red Stix Street Food in Dallas, TX
Red Stix
Exterior of Kuby's Sausage House in Dallas, TX
Kuby’s
Steak from Knife in Dallas, TX
Knife

Find yourself around Southern Methodist University? Whether you’re just in the neighborhood or you’re living on campus, there’s tons of dining options for you to check out. When we visit the area, we can’t help but find ourselves gravitating to a few favorites that embody Texas cuisine in fun and creative ways. You’ll be able to order some amazing food while exploring this exciting area of Dallas. Check out this list for some of our favorite spots near Southern Methodist University. 

Inside DL Mack's in Dallas, TX
Photo Credit: Yelp.com

DL Mack’s

6501 Hillcrest Ave, Dallas, TX 75205
(214) 217-0036

DL Mack’s has been around for years, and it is found within the Park Cities neighborhood of Dallas. It is the quintessential American tavern that offers elevated American classics. You’ll know when you’re close because you’ll see the red and green exterior. Inside, there’s a modernized diner feel with a bar, subway tiles, and cozy booths. You’ll want to start by perusing the cocktails and wine offerings. Then, you can dive into the food offerings. There’s something for everyone, which is why this is one of our go-to places. There’s pizza, fish, steak frites, chicken tenders, and more. Relax inside or out on the covered patio. They’re open until 10 on Fridays and Saturdays, too, so it ensures you always have a place to go and eat.

Margherita Pizza at Olivella's Pizza and Wine in Dallas, TX
Photo Credit: Yelp.com

Olivella’s

3406 McFarlin Blvd, Dallas, TX 75205
(214) 528-7070

Whether you consider yourself a Texan or not, Italian food is an important part of the food scene. Olivella’s is a local chain that offers a casual take on pizza and wine. You will find wood-burning ovens that help to deliver the kind of crunch and flavor that you look for in a pizza. There are all sorts of exciting flavors such as the Rustica and the White Truffle, or you can build your own. Should you not want pizza, there are always pastas, paninis, and other items on the menu. There’s also a brunch on the weekends that includes some incredible cocktails – can you say mimosas!? 

Sandwich from Red Stix Street Food in Dallas, TX
Photo Credit: Yelp.com

Red Stix

6501 Hillcrest Ave, Dallas, TX 75205
(972) 913-4883

Every major city has street food, and Dallas is no different. Red Stix serves its street food inside of the PNC Bank building with the help of a counter-service eatery. You’ll find the menu offers Asian fusion that includes various noodle and rice dishes. You can build a personal bowl where you’ll get to choose your protein, sauces, and dressings. You won’t want to miss out on the signature stix, either, which makes it easy to eat on the go. Once you order at the counter, you can choose to grab a seat anywhere, including at the counter where you can watch as the cooks work tirelessly in the kitchen.

Exterior of Kuby's Sausage House in Dallas, TX
Photo Credit: Yelp.com

Kuby’s

6601 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205
(214) 363-2231

Throughout Texas, you’ll find various pockets of German culture. It’s a great way to embrace the delicious food and the incredible wine. Kuby’s, found in the Snider Plaza, is a sausage house that allows you to indulge in not only sausage but also sauerkraut and beer. The meat market and European-style deli has quite a bit to offer, so bring your appetite. The outside looks as though you’ve entered a portal into Bavaria. The inside features a rustic dining room as well as seating at the bar. You can try all sorts of different wurst plates as well as house specialties like the Jager Schnitzel. Be sure to always ask about the soup of the day as it’s made fresh. Oh, and don’t leave without a slice of German coffee cake, trust us.

Steak from Knife in Dallas, TX
Photo Credit: Yelp.com

Knife

5300 E Mockingbird Ln, Dallas, TX 75206
(214) 443-9339

Knife is the brainchild of Chef John Tesar. If his name sounds familiar, it may be because he was a contestant on “Top Chef” or because he has been a nationally acclaimed James Beard-nominated chef. The restaurant is also Michelin-Starred. The steakhouse sits inside The Highland Dallas, offering elegant seating throughout the modern dining room. You’ll find old-school steakhouse items like filet mignon and bone-in sirloin as well as more exotic options like a 180-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye. Tesar also does a great job of pushing the taste buds with such things as a bacon tasting board, tartare, and more. Of course, if you’re not that adventurous, burgers and pasta are also featured. The cocktails are just as exquisite as the rest of the menu. Plan on making reservations and staying for a few hours.

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Restaurant recommendations kindly provided by: @dallasfoodnerd | www.dallasfoodnerd.com

Dallas Food Nerd was founded in 2011 by Elysa and Rory Ellis. The brand grew to become a community project of 20+ writers in North Texas who happen to like food, probably a little too much. Check out their website and social media pages for restaurant recommendations, new menu releases, recipe videos, product reviews and more nerdy fun!