November 12, 2009

Ocean Prime Dallas

Small steak and seafood chain that channels a retro supper club (dark wood, schmancy drapes, snazzy cocktails) in the heart of Uptown. The Prime Hour (4-6 p.m.) menu dishes cheap bites like $5 truffled deviled eggs.

  Downtown, Food & Drink, Bar Menu, Classic Cocktails

September 8, 2009

NYLO Dallas/Las Colinas Dallas

Swanky, new pet-friendly hotel that’s totally affordable. The kick-ass pool turns the Irving hideaway into an urban oasis. Delish cocktails and a hip library full of books and games tickle the senses.

  Las Colinas, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, Dog Friendly

September 8, 2009

Urban Crust Dallas

Affordable wood-fire pizzeria with surprisingly fancy starters. Top billing goes to 32 Degrees, the rooftop bar with a huge chunk of ice to keep sips (don’t miss the fruitinis made from local produce) chill.

  Downtown Plano, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, Romantic

January 15, 2008

La Cubanita Dallas

The setting is reminiscent of Old Havana — complete with a faux-worn facade, antique furniture, and a handsome mahogany bar (which houses an impressive collection of premium rums) perfect for crafting a refreshing mojito. The semiopen kitchen turns out tropical fare, ranging from the expected pressed Cuban sandwich and yucca fries to Caribbean-kissed grilled shrimp and papaya salad.

  Knox & Henderson, Food & Drink, Alfresco, Brunch

August 15, 2007

Fearing's Dallas

Fearing’s is just what you might expect from a resto inside the tony Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. It’s swank — and it’s over-the-top Texas to the bone. Beloved chef Dean Fearing turns out Southwestern delights like barbecue shrimp tacos, apple-smoked bacon-jalapeno chicken, and scallops with tangerine essence. The Rattlesnake Bar is packed with pretty women and the fat wallets who love them.

  Arts District, Food & Drink, Alfresco, Boozehound

March 22, 2007

Angelika Dallas Dallas

Indie movie theater with nice, large screening rooms. Best in show: The theater sells wine, beer, and champagne for movie consumption. Students, take your ID on Tuesdays for a free bag of popcorn.

  Gold Coast, Culture, Classic Cocktails, Film Buff

December 15, 2006

Tillman's Roadhouse Dallas

  Bishop Arts District, Food & Drink, Classic Cocktails, Lunch Spot

July 24, 2006

Beckley BrewHouse Dallas

What once was a crack den (true story) is now home to Beckley BrewHouse — part coffeehouse, part neighborhood restaurant. Sip on a coffee-centric martini made by a friendly barista behind a blue tile counter, then peruse the collection of take-a-book, leave-a-book titles. The kitchen turns out yummy pizzas, burgers, and a surprise weekly special. Smoking not allowed.

  Kessler, Food & Drink, Alfresco, Classic Cocktails