Too often we associate French cuisine with stuffiness, arrogance, overpriced fare or some combination of the three. Thankfully, Dallas has Knox Bistro to show off the best that French cuisine has to offer in a much more approachable fashion. Knox Bistro’s menu offers ingredients that aren’t at all complex but are so brilliantly executed that they taste like something new and fresh. There are delicate soufflés, naturally, exquisite seafood (don't sleep on the brilliant branzino) and perfectly prepared vegetables. It's all reminiscent of chef-partner Bruno Davaillon's home in the Loire Valley. His team, including executive chef Michael Ehlert, creates a casually elegant meal that should change anyone’s mind about French cuisine being too pretentious to enjoy.

Top pick: Soufflés may be the essence of French cooking, and Knox Bistro’s chocolate dessert soufflé borders on a religious experience. It’s light yet rich, chocolaty yet still bright, and should almost be a requirement to end your meal. ($$)