After what has seemed like a Texan-sized drought of restaurant openings, it seems like things are starting to pick up in Dallas again. Maybe it's all of those blue bonnets that sprouted a few weeks back, or the honeysuckle that just began to perfume the streets recently, but Dallas seems renewed this spring, which is a good enough reason as any to get out there and explore some new restaurants.
There are plenty of old standbys here, and a few new comers, but I get the sense that a tide has been set in motion. Come summertime you might not even recognize Dallas' dining scene, but for now, here's where to spend that precious dining income.
Luscher's pictured above This latest creation my Brian Luscher may be the greatest blue-collar gustatory shit show Dallas has ever encountered. Loosen your belt? It's best you leave your belt at the door. Start with hot dogs, two at a time, and then make your way through an Italian beef while slugging local beer.
Special note: you should permanently block off Tuesdays on your calendar. This is when Luscher's offers beef tallow fries. Fries were almost always cooked in rendered beef fat long ago, but then the American Heart Association had to go and ruin the party. Tuesday's at Luscher's are for kicking it old school. Come visit and then go home and nap to that Elvis Costello vinyl record that's been sitting lonely on your shelf lately.
Proof + Pantry The dining room here is as packed as ever, bolstered recently by a party DJ porron brunch that will completely destroy your Saturday. The restaurateurs behind Proof + Pantry recently announced a second restaurant is in the works, which will surely tax the staff. Better get in sooner than later while the staff's attention remains undivided.
Gemma At the least, you deserve some time at the bar with a warm cup of tea and a chocolate-y pine nut tart. You could pull this sort of hit and run any given night, but if you have more time, you really ought to stay for a proper dinner. This little Henderson Avenue gem is still going strong and in addition to a positive review here, the DMN recently anointed the place restaurant of the year.
Front Room With Michael Elhert behind the pass, Front Room has really settled in. Not only is the Park Cities hotel restaurant good enough to keep hotel guests on the property, it's good enough to bring Dallas diners in. I'm trying to imagine what it's like to have Elhert's burger delivered to your room every evening. If I could afford the nightly rate, I'd consider moving in.
Blind Butcher Patio season is back, and Blind Butcher has one of the best. Grab a seat and start with charcuterie boards, continue with the sausages and wrap things up with a meat pie, washing every bite down with a solid selection of beer. Don't miss the house beers served in glassware that can completely obscure your face. You could put in a very long session here.
Café Momentum The ultimate feel-good restaurant, Café Momentum allows you to go out and pamper yourself while doing good for your community. With such reasoning, you could just leave your credit card on file with the host and eat here every day the restaurant is open. Please note Café Momentum is only open Thursday, Friday and Saturday every week. Thank God for your wallet, no?
Remedy I don't know if this place can actually cure your ailments, but I'm positive it can make you feel a whole lot better about them. Remedy is the sort of restaurant that will take you back to all those nostalgic food memories of your youth, and then violently smash them to bits. Remember your favorite slice of coconut cream pie? You're about to forget it.
Earlier this year, Mr. Max surprised us all when the Irving Izakaya was suddenly raised from the dead. The new owners are from Las Vegas and they've kept Mr. Max as Mr. Max should be: a quaint little restaurant with delicious snacks where everyone gets shitfaced on soju and sake. Don't believe me? Go see for yourself. And if you're still feeling pensive check in next week when we review the restaurant proper.
Monkey King Noodle Co. This Deep Ellum takeout has customers buzzing about every time I drive by it. Customers stand at the window ordering food, and the stand on the street slurping from cups of noodles. If you have a canine friend, you might bring it along with you. Soup bones have been handed out in the past, and dogs deserve to eat well, too. They're also under some pressure from the city and looking at relocating, soon. This could be your last chance to dine at the original location with all of its charms and quirks.
Small Oak Cliff is going crazy for this place. Small takes the old brewpub model and turns it on its head, with inventive beers and an adventurous kitchen. Not ready for chicken feet? OK, have another beer. Still not ready for chicken feet? OK, maybe that's just not your thing, but there are plenty of other dishes to get excited for, too.
