Best Dallas Restaurants For A First Date
There's nothing wrong with a noisy sports bar or a hole-in-the-wall taco stand, but when you're on a first date it's all about location, location, location. Here are the top destinations that have an inviting atmosphere, a sophisticated menu, and bar options that invite you to linger for another drink or two.
Toulouse Cafe & Bar
3314 Knox Street
Dallas, TX 75205
214.520.8999
www.toulousecafeandbar.com
Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner or dessert. It's a French-style bistro with a lovely patio. (The tables are pressed close together, trés Parisian.) Get a plate of their house specialities to share: mussels and pomme frites. And don't miss their list of champagne cocktails—it's the most extensive in Dallas.
Park
1921 Henderson Avenue
Dallas, TX 75206
214.824.3343
www.parkhenderson.com
It's the most charming patio in Dallas, complete with split-wood benches and sparkling lights. Their menu is equally winsome and features local, seasonal, sustainable, and organic ingredients. An excellent cocktail menu makes Park a triple-threat with drinks showcasing herbal components like basil and thyme. Just one note of caution, they're closed Mondays.
Victor Tangos
3001 N. Henderson Avenue
Dallas, TX 75206
214.252.8595
www.victortangos.com
Gourmet small plates intended for sharing plus tasty cocktails equal the recipe for a perfect night out. Start with the warm herb goat cheese dip served with tomato jam and crostini. And if you love tacos—who doesn't?—get an order of the mini crispy carnitas tacos.
Local
2936 Elm Street
Dallas, TX 75226
214.752.7500
www.localdallas.com
Nestled in the Boyd Hotel, the oldest standing hotel in Dallas, Local is a hidden treasure with an intimate atmosphere, exposed brick walls, and some of the best New American cuisine in Dallas. (Their seared Hudson Valley foie gras on Texas toast with wild blackberry compote is a foodie revelation.)
Crú Wine Bar
3699 McKinney Avenue, Suite 107
Dallas, TX 75204
214.536.9463
www.cruawinebar.com
Their darkly lit interior sets a really nice mood. Sip by the bottle or sample different varieties on one of their wine flights. While they do serve full entrées, their cheese trays and small plates are an excellent choice for two.
Rise No. 1
Inwood Village, Suite 220
Dallas, TX 75209
214.366.9900
www.risesouffle.com
Such a great concept for a restaurant! Rise No. 1 is a soufflé salon & wine bar that celebrates the crowning jewel of French cooking. Try a savory soufflé like truffle-infused mushroom or creamed spinach. For dessert, explore your sweet options, including Grand Marnier and chocolate.
The Grape
2808 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, TX 75206
214.828.1981
www.thegraperestaurant.com
If your date consists of after-work drinks, The Grape has an excellent happy hour in the bar & patio with cocktails, beers, wine and tasting plates on special. While their burger has been named "Best in Texas," it's only available on Sunday & Monday. Any other day of the week, try the Coq au Vin Blanc.
