Traveling is all about going to a destination and experiencing it in a new way. For a lot of Texans, Dallas is most likely a place you have been before, maybe for work, sports, or family. With that being said, the next time you go to Dallas, what if you went in like you had never been before? 

This itinerary is all about where to stay and what to do, but mostly where to dine. There are so many cool restaurants in Dallas that allow you to enter into other cultures or allow you to fully enter into a specific vibe~like a dive bar at the bottom of a high-class hotel.

Staying

The Kimpton Pittman, located in Deep Ellum, is ready to WOW guests through making each person feel important and while creating memorable experiences. 

If I had to describe this hotel in one word it would be intentional, they are really good at anticipating the need, behind the need. A big example of this is their “Forgot it? We’ve got it” card that features a list of personal items such as curling irons, lint rollers, and anti-static spray. If they don’t have what you need, they will go out and get it for you! 

When I checked in I was greeted with a welcome cocktail that felt like it was catered to me, it was a champagne based drink, one of my favorites! 

When you walk outside the back of the lobby you are greeted with a fireplace surrounded by seating that overlooks a cool Deep Ellum mural and a heated outdoor pool. 

Their lobby, a blend of old and new, with many different seating options, is home to their hosted evening social hour. They have an assortment of white and red wines available for your enjoyment. 

Morning coffee and tea service, loaner bikes/kids scooters, and in-room yoga mats all add to their theme of intentionality. 

Doing

The Bishop Arts District is home to a wide variety of boutiques, funky restaurants, cool coffee shops, and galleries. Located in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of South Dallas, this is the perfect area for a leisurely walk. 

Looking for something new and different? Hat Making at Flea Style: begin the process by picking out a plain hat, the color of your choice. Then you move on to the accessories and choose additions that match your personality. After you have made your selections, you work with one of the stylists to create a beautifully designed hat.

Dining

Lexy’s 

The Brand: The perfect place for a girls night out; the whole place is decked out in pink roses, a champagne vending machine, and other aesthetic decor. 

The Bev: Rosé fits the environment, but the Screaming Monkey cocktail is also a goodie, especially if you are a matcha fan! 

The Bites: Brisket & Avocado Croquettes, Lexy’s Salad, Lexy’s Fried Rice, and the Truffle Fries. 

Elm and Good

The Brand: American farmhouse that exudes Texas charm while maintaining a sophistsicated atmosphere. 

The Bev: During Black History Month, $1 from every Old-Fashioned goes to historically black colleges and universities. 

The Bites: Start your day with the Croissant Breakfast Sandwich. 

Catbird 

The Brand: THE glamorous cocktail lounge situated on the 10th floor of the Thompson Dallas hotel. 

The Bev: The Catbird (Tequila 512 Reposado, Campari, lime, grapefruit foam). 

The Bites: East Coast Oysters 

 The Finch 

The Brand: Newly opened in November 2022, The Finch is ready to receive your next big occasion, Sunday brunch, or casual weekday meal. 

The Bev: The Finch 75, their take on the classic cocktail (grey goose essences – white peach & rosemary, italicus, lemon, prosecco). 

The Bites: As far as brunch goes, the brunch pizza was a unique and delicious concept. 

Rodeo Bar 

The Brand: First opened in 1981, they have continued to stay true to their motto: “Texas grit and authenticity”. 

The Bev: Real Cold Cocktail or Rodeo Ranch Water 

Rye

The Brand: American small plates and cocktail lounge centered around bringing people together in their cozy and chic dining room. It’s the type of restaurant that you could stay in for hours surrounded with good company. 

The Bev: Gini Hendrix (London dry gin, butterfly pea gin, campari, lemon, simple syrup, grapefruit bitters, dry hopped tincture), or The Spiced Old-Fashioned. 

The Bites: Locally sourced with an always rotating menu with handcrafted small plates. 

Isla & Co. 

The Brand: The opportunity to enjoy true Australian cuisine and hospitality without the 20 hour flight.  

The Bev: Australians are known for their intentionality with coffee so the Espresso Martini or the Flat White is how you have a G’Day.

The Bites: Australian coastal influenced dishes, along with European and Southeast Asian as well. Some crowd favorites include: Sausage Rolls, Mushroom Toast, and the Kale Beet Salad. 

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Cover Photo Courtesy Visit Dallas

A lover of all things travel, pretty running trails and good coffee, Analise Flatt is a Senior at Stephen F. Austin State University studying Mass Communications with a minor in Travel and Tourism. Check out her Instagram to stay updated on her latest travel adventures.