Top 5: Eats in Dallas

From authentic Mexican to creative craft cocktails, Dallas's food and drink scene nods to international influences but remains distinctly Texan

By National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Published 9 Apr 2019, 00:21 BST, Updated 12 Jul 2021, 13:45 BST

Top Knot, Dallas

Photograph by Heather Hawkins

Top Knot  
Hip yet laid back, the light-filled Top Knot is a great place to spend an evening. It boasts a really creative pan-Asian menu with small plates ranging from sushi to bao. Sharing dishes include crispy chicken katsu with miso mustard or charred cauliflower with farro and creme fraiche. And best of all, it offers sake on tap.

Atwater Alley 
Located in an alley with an unmarked door, this secret bar serves up some of the best craft cocktails in Dallas. Both floors boast bars stocked with an impressive array of fresh ingredients and garnishes. I love to tell the bartenders what spirit I'm in the mood for and let them choose what drink to make.

Meso Maya  
Meso Maya is a local favourite for authentic Mexican food. Located within walking distance of the Dallas Arts District and other popular attractions, its downtown location has a great outdoor patio space. I recommend making reservations in advance so you can skip the line and get straight to the food.

Victor Tangos  
With its cool, low-key vibe, excellent food, and creative cocktails, Victor Tangos is one of my favourite restaurants in Dallas. The menu is always changing and the plates — like ahi tuna nachos or burrata with sweet and sour aubergine — are sized for sharing, making it a fun place to go with friends.

Chicken Scratch/The Foundry  
For me, Chicken Scratch and The Foundry represent what I love about Texas. There is nothing better than ordering drinks and fried chicken from their huge shared outdoor patio. Filled with picnic tables and a stage that features live music, it's the perfect place for a casual night out.

By Dr Nicole R Myers: Oversees the Dallas Museum of Art's European collection from the medieval period up to 1945. Before joining the DMA, Myers worked at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Published in the December 2017 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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