Dallas Restaurants: Good Eats in Texas

In the last few years, I’ve made several trips to Dallas, Texas. I try to experience something new every time, including trying some great food along the way. Be sure to check out my Dallas Highlights Post! I’m sure this post will be updated several times since I’ll be in Dallas again in two weeks, so here is my (current) list of the best Dallas Restaurants:

Dallas Restaurants Guide

Downtown Dallas

Campisi’s has delicious Italian food and has been a staple of Dallas Restaurants for over 40 years. It has a dark, intimate atmosphere, so it’s great for a date night.  I went with a large group, and we ordered several appetizers that included Bruschetta, Artichoke Hearts, and Calamari. I enjoyed every bite. For the main course, you can build your own pasta or pizza, or you can choose from their pre-made selections. Go before 5 to enjoy Happy Hour. 

Chop House Burger: While I don’t eat red meat, I’ve heard a lot of people recommend this burger joint. I loved their ahi tuna burger, and their truffle parmesan fries were out of this world. Apparently, they also have really good milkshakes, but I was too full to even contemplate dessert. 

The Commissary is great spot for coffee and dessert. Usually, I research the best places to eat in the cities that I visit, but blue tiles on the outside of this bakery stood out to me as I was exploring Downtown Dallas at night. I enjoyed some delicious gelato as I strolled the streets back to my hotel. Do note that Commissary closes at 7pm. 

Dallas Farmers Market: If your group is having a hard time deciding on a particular cuisine, try the Dallas Farmers Market. It’s an upscale food court with several different vendors providing food. Then, your group can meet in the provided tables.

Bishop Arts District

Pier 247: This local place has outdoor and indoor seating with reasonably priced, delicious seafood. We ordered several entrees and ate family style.

Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ– can’t go to Texas and skip the BBQ. Lockhart’s is known for great meat that doesn’t need any sauce. Expect a line and no vegetarian options.

Emporium Pies– Be prepared to see a line out that door at this little pie shop, but it’s worth the wait. The key lime is good, but the Cloud 9 is out of this world- as the name suggests.

Knox Park

Velvet Tacos: This place was so good I visited twice in two days. I tried four different tacos and two side items- everything was delicious! My favorites were the Shrimp & Grits taco and a side of crisp tots with a local egg.  Expect a long line around lunchtime, but these guys are quick on service. Also, I usually save money by just drinking water because a coke is a lot cheaper at the grocery store. However, after ordering, I realized that Velvet Taco has a local soda provider, and I would have probably splurged and tried it.

The Porch: More of a sit-down, casual dining experience. Specializing in Southern comfort food this is another local favorite in the Knox Park area of Dallas, but be prepared that The Porch has a pricier menu.

Uptown Dallas:

The Shell Shack: The Shell Shack is the only thing I can recommend in Uptown Dallas, because it’s the only place that I’ve eaten at in that area. Anytime I mention going to Dallas, somebody will recommend the Shell Shack. As usual with seafood, it is a pricier dinner option, but they have delicious seafood. Be prepared to get your hands dirty as you crack open some crab legs.

Have any other recommendations for Dallas Restaurants? Leave them in the comments and don’t forget to pin!