Inside Dallas Dining: 5 Questions with Restaurateur Julian Rodarte, Margarita Mile Ambassador

Julian Rodarte’s 2018 was a whirlwind of culinary milestones. He faced his father, Beto Rodarte, in a televised showdown against celebrity chef Bobby Flay on the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay.” The same year marked the two‑year anniversary of Beto & Son, the flagship restaurant that now anchors his culinary empire. Following these achievements, Julian was honored as the official ambassador of the renowned Margarita Mile, a title he embraces with pride.

Cooking and creating in the kitchen is such a big part of your life. When you’re not the one preparing, where do you go to indulge?

My go‑to is Royal China in North Dallas. As an avid fan of Asian cuisine, I consistently find the menu to be a revelation. The soup dumplings and dumpling sampler are non‑negotiable, and I love chatting with owner George—he’s become a mentor and a pillar of hospitality in my culinary journey.

I also head to Town Hearth in the Design District for a casual, yet stellar steak experience. The place’s millennial vibe makes it ideal for a relaxed date night.

What’s your favorite Dallas neighborhood and what do you love about it?

Every corner of Dallas offers something special, but Trinity Groves—and West Dallas as a whole—has captured my heart. The views from its patios are breathtaking, and the diversity of restaurants means there’s always something new to try.

For drinks, I’m drawn to Uptown. My favorites there include Parliament, Tipsy Alchemist, Standard Pour, and the Rattlesnake Bar at the Ritz‑Carlton.

You're hosting a group of friends for a weekend visit to Dallas. What’s on the agenda?

We start at Klyde Warren Park, where the food trucks offer a delightful array of options. The Dallas Farmers Market follows, providing a lively, communal atmosphere—perfect for a Saturday morning outing.

Experiencing Dallas through the Margarita Mile is a must; the route delivers not only exceptional margaritas but also high‑quality cuisine at every stop.

Trinity Groves never sleeps. Saturday nights feature salsa at Beto & Son, Friday nights showcase live performances at Souk, and Sundays call for a brunch and beer pairing at Luck.

What should a first‑time Dallas visitor experience?

Explore as many neighborhoods as you can. Each area offers unique photo opportunities—great for social media—and a distinct culinary vibe. It’s part of the millennial mindset to capture every corner of a new city.

Dine broadly. Rather than staying at one restaurant, I recommend a neighborhood‑wide tasting tour. The city’s food scene is expansive and vibrant.

What’s something about Dallas that would surprise a first‑time visitor?

Dallas’s progressive food scene. While barbecue, Tex‑Mex, and steakhouses are staples, visitors often overlook Japanese gems like Tei‑An and Uchi or Italian spots such as Sasetta and Lucia—each offering world‑class experiences.

Julian Rodarte – one half of the duo behind the stellar Beto & Son.