Dallas is a cosmopolitan city of wonders. In one day, you can explore, eat, shop and experience this one of a kind city. We’re here to help you make the most of your visit. So, skip the tourist traps and experience the local color of these hidden gems. As they say in Dallas, “Big Things Happen Here!”
Eat
Start with breakfast at All Good Café. This café in the iconic Deep Ellum neighborhood lives up to its name. It really is all good! Don’t miss the combination chicken fried steak and eggs! Everything at this classic diner is designed to please and the kitschy décor will have you mesmerized. You won’t find burgers, fries or TVs but you will find some of the best food from ingredients sourced in the neighborhood. Hundreds of paper cranes adorn the ceiling and classic music posters hang on the walls. Owner, Mike Snider, is always present to make guests feel at home. Live Texas music is featured on Thursday-Saturday nights. Sunday brunch is a slow, relaxing affair to allow everyone to enjoy the morning and recover from the weekend. It all works.
For lunch and drinks, stop by Full Circle Tavern where the staff serves up the Bad Ass Burger for those who are not faint at heart. Maybe the slow roasted beef of the Italian Stallion or Jacques Po-boy with its Louisiana crab cake goodness is more your speed. Regardless, the fun, convivial atmosphere will keep you coming back. Dine on the patio where you will have exceptional views of the iconic downtown Dallas skyline.
The Green Door Public House is a cozy American restaurant for lunch, drinks or dinner. The two story building, built in the 1800s, was moved brick-by-brick to its current location near Farmer’s Market. The restaurant’s “prohibition-era” décor speaks to the building history during this time period when speakeasy owners would signal potential customers by painting their door green.
Shop
Shop Lula B’s for that weird and wonderful item that you didn’t know that you needed. Step down the block to the Dallas Mozzarella Company and learn how mozzarella is made from the pioneer artisanal cheesemaker, Paula Lambert. Though the company started from humble beginnings, today, the company produces over 30 award winning cheeses that are highly sought after by restaurants through the US. Her production facility gives tours and offers visitors an opportunity to purchase cheeses to take home. Finish with a long meander through the extensive offerings at Bill’s Records. As the largest used record store in Dallas, music lovers can happily immerse themselves for several hours looking through vintage vinyl, posters and music memorabilia.
Play
Poor David’s Pub
Since 1977, Poor David’s Pub has hosted the best of Texas, regional and national bands. Settle in for an evening of music and revelry. From the iconic to the ground breaking, the best bands in the state have graced the stage at Poor David’s. While you’re there, be sure to meet Poor David, the owner.
Experience
For the best in Art Deco architecture, tour Fair Park. Home to the iconic State Fair of Texas, Fair Park is the world’s largest collection of 1930s Art Deco exposition buildings. An informative cellphone walking tour will guide you through this classic collection. Museums and sculptures are also featured throughout the 227-acre park.
During the heat of the afternoon, slip into the Crow Collection of Asian Art. This small museum will give you an exquisite view of the best of modern and ancient Asian art.
Roof top at NYLO
Finish your day with a glass of wine on the rooftop deck at the Nylo Hotel South Side. This boutique hotel, housed in a historic property, is one of the best kept secrets in Dallas. It is a prime location to watch sun set while the lights come up in downtown. The combination of the view, a softly lapping infinity pool and artworks by local artists in unmatched. It is the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Dallas has so many new experiences and great food around every corner. The best plan is to skip the tourist sites and visit the truly world-class places that the locals visit. You’ll leave with a lot of memories, many new friends and plans to return.
