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10 Restaurants With A Twist In Dallas, Texas

Backyard Pallet Stage
Backyard Pallet Stage | © Jamie Paxton

Dallas is the commercial and cultural hub of Texas, and a great place to find good, hearty food; primarily BBQ and other meat-heavy dishes. We list 10 great places here where the food is delicious and the experience just a little bit different.

Catfish Plantation

Restaurant, Seafood, Cajun

Catfish Plantation, Waxahachie
© Nicolas Henderson/Flickr
For an eerie experience, the place to be is the haunted Catfish Plantation. The food here is amazing, and so are the stories; staff and patrons alike are all excited to tell their scariest tales. The restaurant is located in an old Victorian house close to Downtown, and is a highlight for both food lovers and those who love the unexplained.

The Boxcar

The Boxcar is off the beaten path, but is worth the trip. They have done major renovations to the venue, and there is almost always something going on such as live music or karaoke. The Boxcar features a dance floor and two patios for hanging out on through hot summer nights.

Buy The Book

Cafe, American

Buy the Book is a great place to start your day. Smooth jazz and coffee smells will draw you in and the light and bright surroundings will help you prepare for your day. In the evening, the venue is big enough for most events and has hosted many a local party.

The Back Porch Coffee House And Madeline's Bakery

Bakery, Cafe, Food Court, Restaurant, Canteen, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Tea , Coffee

Backyard Pallet Stage
© Jamie Paxton
At The Back Porch they serve coffee, lunch and dinner but go even to try the pastries, crafted by Madeline, a self-taught pastry chef. Come at the weekend and you can listen to local bands play on the unique pallet stage. The menu is well thought out and prepared fresh every morning, which lends the place a homey feel.

Toshio's Taste Of Japan

Bar, German

Toshio’s is located in the historical Rodgers Hotel, a beautiful place that has been kept well preserved by the owners. The sushi bar always draws a good crowd and beyond its food options it’s worth remembering that the hotel is 103 years old and is a piece of history in its own right.

Rock'N R Bar And Diner

Bar, Diner, Pub, Wine, Beer, Cocktails, American

College Street Pub
© Jamie Paxton
If you want good food, great music, and amazing service, this is the spot for you. Owner Tony Ripley is passionate about music and he regularly books the bands and hosts the open mic nights. The food is wonderful, plus, the kitchen is always open and they have a late night special after 10pm. Come here for Texas music, Texas food, and a great Texas experience.

College Street Pub

Pub, American, British, Wine, Beer, Pub Grub

The College Street Pub is like being in two places at once; in the heart of Texas and in rainy London. This spot is small, but makes up for it with big tastes and serves up Texas takes on British cuisine. They also have a great patio where you can listen to live bands or simply enjoy your fish and chips al fresco.

The Dove's Nest

The Dove’s Nest started out as a tiny kitchen in the back of a shop, and has grown into a phenomenon. New Southern Cuisine is served to around 100 people everyday. After you eat, you can enjoy the local knick-knack shops selling the most delightful trinkets and antiques this side of the Mason-Dixon line.

Serengeti Grill

Restaurant, American

While this spot is not technically in South Dallas, this is a favorite hang out for Texans near and far. Located inside a game park, the restaurant has two huge windows through which to scope out the wildlife while you eat.
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