By Charlotte Pompa
Dallas is one of the best cities for a spectacular food and drink scene beyond barbecue. Although I will never turn down a plate of brisket, sometimes the aesthetic of the restaurant is what makes it worth visiting. Now that midterms are over, it is the perfect time to celebrate the versatility of Dallas’ dining. Whether it is a romantic Italian restaurant, a savory Chinese restaurant, or a swanky lounge, Dallas has thousands of options all within a convenient location. For those foodies that want an aesthetic experience instead of only good food, here are ten restaurants that SMU girls said to be their favorite in Dallas that make you feel like you’re not in Texas.
Le Bistrot Bar Sardine is the best restaurant to feel as if you were transported to a chic Parisian corner restaurant without leaving far from campus. With its dim lighting, vintage decor, and classic French dishes like escargot and steak tartare, this restaurant brings the charm of France straight to Snider Plaza. Le Bistrot Bar Sardine is perfect for a romantic dinner or a classy night cocktail with friends that is close to campus.
On the same street as Bar Sardine, Jack & Harry’s offers a classy dining experience. With its sleek design, art deco details, and creative cocktails, this spot feels more like a trendy New York bistro than the typical Snider Plaza restaurant. Jack & Harry’s makes for the perfect chic dinner outing for those looking for a convenient yet more upscale dining experience.
Walking into Town Hearth feels like a glamorous 1950s steakhouse with a bold and modern twist. With its crystal chandeliers, vintage motorcycles, and submarines in a fish tank, Town Hearth is destined to leave a lasting impression on all of its customers. Its great-quality steak and craft cocktails offer an upscale difference compared to the typical Texas dining experience. According to numerous SMU students’ parents, it is ranked highly among their favorite places to dine while visiting.
Monarch offers both some of the best Italian food and views of Dallas. On the top of the Thompson Hotel, this luxurious Italian restaurant has panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. The sleek and sophisticated ambiance aligns with their handmade pasta and wood-fired meats, making it the ideal spot for special occasions or to treat yourself. After having dined here multiple times, I believe this restaurant has never failed to meet its reasonably high expectations.
If you’re craving Japanese cuisine, Uchi is the perfect location. Renowned for its innovative sushi and sashimi offerings, this modern restaurant truly makes the customers feel like they are eating fish from Tokyo. Uchi successfully combines traditional Texas hospitality with Tokyo flair. For sushi lovers, the omakase tasting menu is a must.
Although it is located in Dallas, The French Room successfully aligns with the French origin in its name. The French Room is a luxurious escape from Dallas into old-world European elegance. The scenery is surrounded by gilded ceilings, hand-painted murals, and a menu that reads like a classic French cuisine.
Sister perfectly balances Italian and Mediterranean influences with a chic atmosphere. Their menu offers an array of food, from house-made pasta and fresh seafood to playful cocktails. Their unique combination provides a refreshing break from the traditional Texas Italian and Mediterranean restaurants.
Javier’s is an escalated version of the typical Tex-Mex restaurant. This high-end Mexican restaurant offers the known and loved traditional Mexican foods and a touch of sophistication. With its dark wood interiors, vintage cigar lounge, and authentic Mexican dishes, Javiers feels more like Mexico City than a spot in Dallas off of the Katy Trail.
Mister Charles brings the luxurious essence of two of the favorite European cuisines, Italian and French, to Dallas. Mister Charles finishes their delicious food with a stunning ambiance. With its polished marble surfaces, lavish chandeliers, and a menu that blends French and Italian influences, this restaurant is the sometimes-needed escape from the expected Texas dining scene.
Cover image by Caroline Williams
