Top 10 Trendy Restaurants in Dallas Locals Are Raving About

Dallas is home to a lively and vibrant restaurant scene. And it’s only continuing to grow. Whether you’re in the mood for some Asian-fusion dishes or classic Texas BBQ, you can find both of these cuisines and more in this charming Southern city. Of course, navigating such a large restaurant and bar scene can be challenging. That’s why we did all the heavy lifting for you and arranged a list of the top 10 trendy restaurants in Dallas. Check out the full list now!

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1. Gemma

Modern American bistro with a laidback, coastal vibe

2323 N Henderson Ave, Suite 109 | Lower Greenville | gemmadallas.com

Upscale dining and Instagram-worthy plates seamlessly come together at Gemma. Located in Lower Greenville, Gemma offers a charming and posh atmosphere perfect for guests looking for a new drink or dinner spot. 

On the dinner menu, you’ll find an array of creative dishes like the Mahi-Mahi Ceviche and Goat Cheese Tortelloni. Feeling thirsty? Try a seasonal cocktail or sparkling wine! Just don’t forget to finish off your meal with a sweet dessert. We recommend the Banana Pot de Creme.

“Gemma was my 2nd Fine-Dining Choice for our weekend in Dallas, but man did our food Deliver! I'm a sucker for game meats and found the Rabbit Pappardelle to be absolutely divine. They didn't skimp on the meat and the swiss chard was a nice, slightly bitter, contrast to the richness of the creamy thyme sauce.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Gemma.

2. Dragonfly

Chic, contemporary bar serving up New American dishes with Asian influences

2332 Leonard St | Uptown Dallas | hotelzaza.com

Located inside the Hotel ZaZa, Dragonfly offers a breathtaking culinary experience featuring a stunning dining room and a diverse menu of classic American dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Dragonfly is perfect for any event, whether it is a breakfast date or a business dinner. 

Guests can start their meal off with a craft beer or splashy cocktail. For the main entree, they have a savory selection of dishes like the Burrata Bucatini and Pan Roasted Redfish available to them. Lounging by the pool? Dragonfly offers a small Pool Bites menu featuring savory plates like Whipped Feta Dip and Crispy Jalapeno Calamari. 

“This place was really yummy and the ambiance is nice for a Sunday Funday. The lamp pops were delicious and I honestly don't eat much lamb or meat that is medium-well. The s'mores pudding was so good I'm disappointed I had to share it. The drinks were delicious. I'll be back.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Dragonfly.

3. Harper’s

Elevated cocktails and cuisine offered in a modern, upscale atmosphere

2525 Elm St | Deep Ellum | harpersdallas.com

Prepare for an unforgettable dining experience at Harper’s. Located in Deep Ellum, Harper’s offers a sophisticated, yet friendly, environment for guests. Many of the dishes infuse global culinary techniques while staying true to their American roots. Inside, you’ll find a gorgeous dining room enhanced by overhanging vegetation that makes you feel as though you’ve been transported to a lush garden.

Some of our favorite dishes on the menu include the Seared Scallops Au Poivre, Untraditional Tagine Chicken, and Chilean Sea Bass. Don’t forget to pair your entree with one of their signature wines or cocktails. Just want to stop by for a drink? Harper’s offers an abundance of great Happy Hour deals as well

“The entire experience was great! Bartenders were all very sweet and helpful with the menu, drinks were on point and the vibe/ambiance was fun and upbeat. We had several appetizers... The tuna sashimi was my favorite and comes with a really fun dry ice presentation when brought out.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Harper’s.

4. Wok Star Chinese

Sleek, modern restaurant known for its savory Chinese dishes

8041 Walnut Hill Ln | Northeast Dallas | wokstarchinese.com

Texas is mostly known for its Southern comfort dishes and Tex-Mex cuisine. However, you can also find a variety of great Asian restaurants like Wok Star Chinese here! Located in Northeast Dallas, Wok Star Chinese offers savory plates made from fresh, premium ingredients sourced from Chinese suppliers. Guests can sit inside its colorful, modern dining room or enjoy a meal outside on its pet-friendly patio!

Dumplings, spring rolls, bao buns, hand-pulled la mian, fried rice, and more delicious Chinese plates are featured on the restaurant’s extensive menu. If you still have some room for dessert at the end of your meal, we recommend trying their Cookie Dough Egg Rolls or Chocolate Bun!

“Authentic yet modern, Wok Star delivers on flavor and experience! The traditional soup dumplings were amazing and the Wok Star Hot Chicken is the best dry rub in town.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Wok Star Chinese.

5. ArtPark at Trinity Groves

Colorful outdoor park and beer garden in Trinity Groves

331 Singleton Blvd, Suite 100 | Trinity Groves | theartparktrinitygroves.com

Autumn in Dallas is gorgeous. Why not enjoy the crisp fall air and dine outside at ArtPark? Situated in Trinity Groves, this stunning beer garden offers plenty of tables so you can kick back and enjoy a craft cocktail on a sunny day. 

In addition to their open-air seating plan, ArtPark is also known for their savory handcrafted food, frozen drinks, outdoor TV sets, and beautiful views of Downtown Dallas. Some of their signature menu items include the Pretzel Crisps, Smoked Pork Ribs, and Hoftmann Hotdog. You can also indulge your sweet tooth with delicious desserts like the frozen custard and baked apple tart.

“New bar with a spacious outdoor patio space that just opened up in Trinity Groves, across the strip of restaurants! Colorful umbrellas and picnic tables are scattered across the green grass, surrounded by equally colorful murals, creating a lively space!” - Yelp Review

6. Milagro Tacos Cantina

Cozy taco spot perfect for kicking back and relaxing with friends

440 Singleton Blvd, Suite 100 | Trinity Groves 

Craving some delicious, authentic tacos? Make sure you add Milagro Tacos Cantina to your bucket list! This charming restaurant offers an exciting array of creative and savory tacos. Burritos, burgers, and veggie bowls are also available! You really can’t go wrong with anything here. 

Thirsty? Treat yourself to a margarita or cocktail! The House Frozen margarita is a hit among guests. But, again, you can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu. So sit back, order whatever piques your interest, and get ready to enjoy some of the best tacos of your life!

“Amazing versions of classic tacos plus some unique spins like salmon and grilled octopus. Very delicious tacos. Great in-house sauces. Excellent drinks. This place is legit!!” - Yelp Review

7. Roots Southern Table

Warm and friendly Southern restaurant located in Farmers Branch

13050 Bee St | Farmers Branch | rootssoutherntable.com

Roots Southern Table offers hearty Southern dishes inside a modern, rustic environment. Led by Chef Tiffany Derry, this charming restaurant in Farmers Branch pays homage to modern Southern cuisine. Many of the dishes are inspired by Tiffany’s culinary heritage that was shaped by family dinners featuring field-to-table dishes. 

The Cast Iron Cornbread is a favorite among guests and is great for starting off the dinner on the right foot. Cocktails are, of course, also available and are perfect for complementing the cornbread. Other top dishes on the menu include the Sea Scallops and Jerk Lamb Chops. 
“Top notch service. The food, PHENOMENAL. The drinks, THE BEST (bartender makes the BEST drinks). The staff is very professional and the owners are very involved and friendly. A great place to dine and unwind.” - Yelp Review

8. RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas

Luscious rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city

3133 Knox St | Uptown Dallas | rh.com

Who doesn’t enjoy a nice rooftop restaurant? If you’re in for seeing stunning views of Dallas, you’ll want to make a reservation at RH Rooftop. Located at The Gallery on Knox Street, RH Rooftop welcomes you into its sophisticated and elegant dining space with open arms. 

RH Rooftop is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Seats fill up quickly, so making a reservation is recommended. While you peruse the menu, don’t forget to order a glass of wine or a cocktail! The menu contains a variety of great dishes, so don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations.

“I absolutely loved RH Rooftop!  From the moment I walked in, it was a lovely vibe. It's almost like there was something in the air...so calming and inviting. The lighting was amazing, perfect for brunch pictures, loved the aesthetics, the noise level was perfect and we loved our waitress, she was the best!” - Yelp Review

9. Carte Blanche

Rustic fine dining spot located in Lower Greenville

2114 Greenville Ave | Lower Greenville | carteblanchedallas.com

Treat yourself to a special night at Carte Blanche. This rustic fine dining restaurant is open from morning to evening. In the morning, Carte Blanche serves a variety of fresh, housemade baked goods made from locally-sourced ingredients. In the evening, the restaurant transitions to a formal tasting menu. Guests can order off the 4-course or 12-course menu. 

The Blueberry Galette and Almond Croissant are popular breakfast dishes. On the dinner menu, you’ll find savory plates like the Foie Gras and the Dry Aged Duck Breast. Carte Blanche is a fine dining venue, so make sure you dress in your best clothes here. 

“I had a lovely dinner 12-course dinner at Carte Blanche last month and enjoyed their pastries the following morning. I would highly recommend Carte Blanche for anyone who wants a unique foodie experience in Dallas!” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for Carte Blanche.

10. The Porch

Charming gastropub offering upscale comfort food

2912 N Henderson Ave | Lower Greenville | theporchrestaurant.com

Finishing off the list of the best trendy restaurants in Dallas is The Porch. Located in Lower Greenville, The Porch is known for its savory lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Both outdoor and indoor seating is offered.

The all-day menu features classic Southern dishes like the Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Chicken Fried Steak. For brunch, you’ll find savory meals like the Hot Fried Chicken & Biscuits and Steak & Eggs. A full drink menu featuring cocktails, beer, and wine is also available for your enjoyment. 

“Get here early for Sunday brunch because there's a line at the door before it opens! From start to finish, our experience here at brunch was lovely. The server was very patient with us, knowledgeable of the menu, and gave the perfect recommendations.” - Yelp Review

Purchase a GiftYa card for The Porch.

While we all love our go-to restaurants and bars, there’s nothing wrong with changing things up every once in a while. Dallas is home to dozens of fun and trendy restaurants. So why not branch out and try some for yourself?

Are there any great restaurants and bars in Dallas that you love that didn’t make the list? Let us know!