Pre‑Game Dining Guide: Top 11 Eats Near Dallas' American Airlines Center
Editor's note: This blog was created before COVID‑19 regulations were put in place. Please use it as inspiration for future travel to Dallas. If your adventures bring you into the city, check with each business you visit for current visitation information, follow local guidelines and practice social distancing. Go Mavs and Go Stars!
Victory Park is one of Dallas’ most vibrant neighborhoods. The buzz builds as you stroll through Victory Plaza toward the American Airlines Center (AAC) clutching your ticket. Then comes the perennial pre‑game dilemma: “What’s for dinner?” We’ve distilled the options into 11 walkable, mouth‑watering locales that’ll get your team’s spirit soaring.
Happiest Hour
5‑minute walk to AAC
The name says it all. Happiest Hour offers generous seating and sweeping views of the arena, perfect for catching up with friends before the game. Their local draft selection and cocktail menu set the tone, while the “happytizer” lineup—chicken wings, pulled‑pork sliders, and loaded cheddar fries—keeps the appetite humming.
Cook Hall
5‑minute walk to AAC
Cook Hall elevates classic American bar fare with a sophisticated twist. The menu showcases upscale comfort food: southern‑fried chicken bites, homemade chicken soup, a chocolate layer cake, and a share‑worthy cheese board. Reserve a spot for the Pecan‑Crusted NY Cheesecake to pair with an Old Fashioned.
Olivella’s Neo Pizza Napoletana
7‑minute walk to AAC
USAToday has dubbed Olivella’s the “best pizza in Texas,” and we agree. Family‑run and Naples‑authentic, the spot offers two patios and full bars, so you won’t wait for a drink. Beyond Neapolitan and Roman pizzas, they serve sandwiches, pastas, and desserts, with allergy information clearly listed and a willingness to accommodate requests.
Mesero
5‑minute walk to AAC
Mesero delivers the quintessential Tex‑Mex experience. Vibrant décor, enticing aromas, and communal plates featuring two types of nachos, three queso varieties, ceviche, and flautas define the menu. Don’t miss the Frozé—frozen rosé, vodka, and Licor 43—for a spirited start.
L'Italiano Bistro & Bar
1‑minute walk to AAC
Just across the street from the AAC, L'Italiano offers a contemporary, upscale Italian bistro. Victorian windows and French doors invite you to sip wine and indulge in dishes such as bruschetta, baked pasta, fried calamari, and fried mozzarella—fuel for a night of cheering.
Imoto
4‑minute walk to AAC
Chef Kent Rathbun’s Imoto brings East‑Asian flavors to Dallas with signature dishes like Korea‑fried chicken, sriracha‑butter roasted king crab, and a sushi bar featuring sashimi and handmade rolls.
HERO
2‑minute walk to AAC
HERO, a concept by HG Sply Co, is a game‑day hotspot. A vast indoor‑outdoor space, arcade games, and a menu that ranges from tuna poke salads to Texas‑Philly sandwiches ensures there’s something for every palate.
Billy Can Can
5‑minute walk to AAC
Billy Can Can reimagines a 19th‑century saloon with a modern twist. Dishes include roasted snapper, scallops and grits, and buffalo tenderloin. Their extensive drink menu features craft beers, signature cocktails, and a curated wine list.
Dibs on Victory
3‑minute walk to AAC
Close to the AAC, Dibs offers casual, shareable bites—nachos, fried pretzels, and the famed 24‑K Gold Trophy Wings. Happy hour runs Monday‑Friday, 4‑7 p.m., and a late‑night menu starts at 10 p.m.
House of Blues
8‑minute walk to AAC
Live music and Southern‑inspired fare make House of Blues a staple. Choose from jambalaya, pulled‑pork sandwiches, or brisket tacos, with family‑style options for groups.
The Henry
8‑minute walk to AAC
New to Uptown, The Henry delivers New American dishes in a relaxed setting. Highlights include pork ribs, wild shrimp boil, and grilled portobello tacos. Happy hour features $6 wines, $4 draft beers, and budget‑friendly appetizers like guacamole and truffle fries.
