Dallas’s Freshest Dining Spots to Explore in 2021
Dallas continues to impress diners with an ever‑expanding culinary landscape. After a challenging year that saw many beloved spots close, 2021 offers fresh opportunities to savor new flavors and create lasting memories.
Catbird
Perched in the new Thompson Hotel’s downtown tower, Catbird offers a contemporary menu, an award‑winning cocktail list, and panoramic views from its terrace lounge. Share small plates or enjoy a signature French 75, then unwind by the fire pits on the terrace.
Chimalma Taco Bar
Chimalma brings a modern twist to traditional Guadalajara dishes. Highlights include crispy rasps topped with braised pork, cabbage, and house‑made salsa, paired with the Old Fashioned Mexico—an elegant Latin spin on the classic.
Dahlia Bar & Bistro
With a Southern‑European flair and a lush cocktail garden, Dahlia offers a relaxed neighborhood vibe. Instagram‑worthy, its shared waffle board is a perfect starter for two.
Eataly
After launching in Turin in 2007, Eataly’s Texas debut opens at NorthPark Center, featuring three restaurants, a gourmet market, and an extensive wine selection. A must‑visit for lovers of Italian fare.
Elm & Good
Inside the historic Pittman Hotel, Elm & Good redefines the upscale American tavern. Ideal for breakfast before exploring Deep Ellum or a late‑night Paloma upon return.
Encina
Encina’s Oak Cliff location champions seasonal ingredients and a straightforward yet adventurous menu. Weekend brunch or dinner showcases goat tacos, twig flatbread, and confit turkey hash.
Harwood Arms
Step into a quintessential British pub atmosphere with Harwood Arms. The dim woods and warm lighting set the stage for classics like Fishwich and a Black & Tan, the perfect pint companion.
Heim Barbecue
Fort Worth’s renowned Heim Barbecue now graces Dallas near Love Field. Texas Monthly named it a Top 50 BBQ joint in 2020, and its pork ribs, bacon‑burnt ends, and twice‑baked potato salad live up to the acclaim.
Nine at The National
Just below Catbird on the ninth floor of the Thompson Hotel, Nine offers brunch and breakfast options that complement the hotel’s evening fare.
Palmer’s Hot Chicken
Located at Mockingbird & Abrams, Palmer’s Hot Chicken features a covered patio and a menu with three heat levels. The Big Dark—two thighs and leg quarters—paired with honey‑glazed Brussels sprouts and cheesy grits is a must‑try.
Rise & Thyme
On the edge of the AT&T Discovery District, Rise & Thyme serves quick breakfast and hearty lunch options. The turkey club on the patio offers a great spot for people‑watching.
Son of a Butcher
Across from Trader Joe’s on Greenville Avenue, this retro slider bar delivers boozy shakes, waffle fries, and cheese curds. The outside mural by Booker T. Washington High School adds a local touch.
The Second Floor at The Exchange
Two chefs, two concepts, one rooftop patio—The Second Floor lives on the second floor of the soon‑to‑open Exchange Hall in the AT&T Discovery District, boasting sweeping views of Commerce Street.
Thunderbird Station
Thunderbird Station transforms a former service station into a retro‑styled patio bar in Deep Ellum. With bright blue décor, beers under $5, and budget‑friendly appetizers, it’s a great spot for casual drinks.
Toller Patio
Claiming to be Dallas’s most colorful and dog‑friendly patio, Toller Patio offers heated seating and a smores kit for chilly evenings. Happy Hour runs weekdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Yardbird
Near Klyde Warren Park, Yardbird has been a brunch staple since its opening. Its Southern‑style menu features Maine lobster Benedict, fried green tomato BLT, and the iconic chicken‑watermelon‑waffles.
Yo! Lobster
At Highland Park Village, Yo! Lobster serves authentic lobster rolls alongside soups, salads, and shellfish dishes. Takeout is available, and Happy Hour runs daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
