Inside Tammy Nguyen Lee’s Dallas Life: Food, Family, and Filmmaking
A proud Dallas native and SMU alumna, Tammy Nguyen Lee is deeply rooted in the city through her creative work and community leadership. She founded Against The Grain Productions, a Dallas‑based production house that champions Asian American voices, unity, and artistic expression. Her award‑winning documentaries have earned recognition from NAAAP 100, the Southwest Jewish Congress, SMU, and other esteemed organizations. Outside of film, she enjoys quality family time at Dallas’s favorite dining and cultural hotspots.
Favorite places to eat in Dallas?
As a family of five—three children under seven—Tammy and her husband balance gourmet adventures with kid‑friendly spots. When the kids decide, they head to Kula Revolving Sushi for inventive sushi rolls. For ramen and udon, their go‑to spots are Ramen Hakata and Ikigai Udon. Family visits with her parents bring them to Caravelle, Jin BBQ, or Pappadeaux.
Favorite spots for date night?
Before the kids arrived, date nights were a staple at Yutaka Sushi Bistro and Fearing’s at the Ritz‑Carlton. Today, rare but treasured, they try new restaurants like Town Hearth and Uchi, where a quiet atmosphere and exceptional cuisine meet.
Favorite places to take children?
Dallas’s vibrant Arts District offers the perfect playground for kids. The family enjoys memberships at the Dallas Museum of Art, Crow Collection of Asian Art, Perot Museum of Nature & Science, Dallas World Aquarium, and Dallas Arboretum. Klyde Warren Park is a beloved green space where they can run, play, and snack on food truck fare.
What's your favorite Dallas neighborhood and what do you love about it?
Tammy’s favorite neighborhood is Bishop Arts District, known for its eclectic shops, off‑beat charm, and culinary gems such as Oddfellows, Dallas Grilled Cheese Co., Stock & Barrel, and Boulevardier. She also loves the nearby Trinity Groves, home to concept restaurants like Chino Chinatown, Kate Weiser, and Cake Bar.
You're hosting a group of friends for a weekend visit to Dallas. Where do you take them?
When hosting friends for a weekend in Dallas, Tammy recommends kid‑friendly outings and the city’s premier shopping destinations, NorthPark and Galleria.
What should a first‑time Dallas visitor experience?
A first‑time visitor should explore the city’s museums and take a tour of Reunion Tower for panoramic views. Dallas’ culinary scene spans steak, seafood, BBQ, Tex‑Mex, Asian, Cajun, and New American, offering something for every palate.
What's something about Dallas that would surprise a first‑time visitor?
Dallas is far more than cowboy culture; its diverse people, politics, cuisine, and entertainment create a dynamic, welcoming community.
Headshot photo credit: David Loi
