Discover Dallas Through Casey Brown’s Lens: Stories, Spots, and Sweet‑Spot Picks
If you’re seeking Dallas residents who are shaping the city, you might already know Casey Walker Brown, founder of Streets, Beats and Eats. Her blog and Instagram create a vibrant, positive community—perfect for Dallas lovers. During this interview, we discovered she grew up in the same Kansas town as my cousins—preschool buddies and all!
Q: You’re not originally from Dallas. What were your first impressions, and which spots did you fall in love with?
Coming from the modest town of Hutchinson, Kansas, I headed to Dallas after college in Fort Worth—Go Frogs! Walking through diverse neighborhoods was my first way to learn the city. Even without a planned itinerary, strolling helped me anchor places in my mind. I also dove into Dallas’s live‑music scene—places like House of Blues, Club Dada, American Airlines Center, and Bomb Factory made unforgettable memories. I’m hopeful the scene will rebound post‑COVID.
Q: Have you staycated in Dallas? Where have you stayed, and what hotels are on your bucket list?
I love staying at The Adolphus and the Omni in Downtown Dallas. Yet, I’ve got a growing list of must‑visit hotels: the new Pittman Hotel in Deep Ellum and Virgin Hotel Dallas in the Design District are top picks for future staycations.
Q: Favorite brunch, lunch, dinner—what’s on the menu?
Choosing a favorite is like picking a favorite child—here’s my lineup: breakfast at Bread Winners, lunch at Las Palmas, and dinner at Pie Tap Pizza Workshop & Bar. Dessert? Both Azucar and Cauldron are my go‑to sweet spots.
Q: Fall is your favorite season. What Dallas fall activities do you love?
No Dallas fall guide is complete without Autumn at the Arboretum—an absolute must. Though I’m a Kansas City Chiefs fan (and can’t watch games live), I enjoy catching them at bars like Dibs on Victory. A newer gem? Drive‑in movies—perfect once temperatures dip.
Q: Where would you be on a free afternoon or evening in Dallas?
I’m a Deep Ellum native—strolling the streets, soaking in live music, and spotting art around every corner. I shop or simply browse at Flea Style, unwind at Green Room, and spend patio nights with friends at Dot’s Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard.
Q: Favorite place to relax—coffee shops, spas, gyms?
I’m a fan of Vivian’s Boutique Spa in Lower Greenville; Joel is my favorite therapist. I also hit the gym at Fit Social Club and enjoy sessions at Session Pilates.
Q: You’re a foodie, but what non‑food recommendations do you have?
Check out Dallas’s indoor mini‑golf spot, Another Round, and The Fabrication Yard in West Dallas. Explore boutique fitness studios, catch the sunset from Reunion Tower, hop on the McKinney Avenue Trolley for drinks at multiple stops, and belt out karaoke at Bryan Street Tavern—my go‑to birthday bash spot.
