10 Best Restaurants in Dallas You Need to Try in 2025

Dallas is a city where culinary traditions meet bold innovation. From smoky Texas barbecue to elegant sushi experiences and global flavors, the dining scene is constantly evolving. If you’re wondering where to eat in Dallas right now, here’s our guide to the top 10 restaurants you don’t want to miss.

 
1. Tatsu Dallas
This Michelin-starred sushi restaurant has quickly become a Dallas legend. Known for its intimate omakase experience, Tatsu combines artistry and precision for one of the most unforgettable meals in the city.

Best for: Date nights, sushi lovers, special occasions.

 
2. Pecan Lodge
Ask any local about barbecue, and you’ll hear one name: Pecan Lodge. Their smoky brisket, tender ribs, and addictive mac & cheese make it one of the most popular BBQ joints in Texas.

Best for: Classic Texas barbecue, casual group dining.

 
3. Cattleack Barbeque
A Bib Gourmand favorite, Cattleack is a must for true barbecue enthusiasts. The “Toddfather” brisket sandwich is legendary, and their banana pudding is worth saving room for.

Best for: BBQ connoisseurs, weekend food trips.

4. Mi Cocina
A Dallas Tex-Mex institution since 1991, Mi Cocina is perfect for enchiladas, queso, and margaritas in a neighborhood setting. It’s comfort food with a community feel.

Best for: Tex-Mex classics, family outings.

 
5. The Charles
Bold décor, Italian-inspired dishes, and a lively atmosphere make The Charles a must-visit in the Design District. Their grilled entrees and pastas fuse Mediterranean style with Dallas flair.

Best for: Stylish nights out, Italian cravings.

 
6. Lucia
Hidden in Bishop Arts, Lucia is famous for handmade pasta and house-cured charcuterie. With only a few tables, reservations are essential — but well worth it.

Best for: Pasta lovers, intimate dining.

7. El Carlos Elegante
Upscale Mexican dining at its best. From bone-in pork chops to vibrant ceviche, El Carlos Elegante blends sophistication with flavor in the heart of the Design District.

Best for: Upscale Mexican cuisine, special celebrations.

 
8. Mot Hai Ba
This Bishop Arts favorite brings an eclectic mix of Vietnamese, French, and Italian influences. Seasonal menus and inventive plates make every visit a new experience.

Best for: Adventurous foodies, unique flavors.

 
9. Onesan Dim Sum & Sushi
Rated highly on OpenTable, Onesan delivers elevated dim sum and sushi in a refined atmosphere. Perfect for groups who want variety and precision on the same table.

Best for: Dim sum brunches, sushi nights.

 
10. Sachet
Resy’s #1 Dallas pick in 2025, Sachet serves fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes in Highland Park. Known for its bright flavors and stylish dining room, it’s one of Dallas’s hottest tickets.

Best for: Mediterranean flavors, trendsetting diners.

Why These Restaurants Stand Out

• A balance of local traditions (barbecue & Tex-Mex) and international influences (sushi, Italian, Mediterranean).
• Featured by trusted sources like Michelin, Resy, Eater, D Magazine, and Southern Living.
• Located across Dallas’s most vibrant neighborhoods — from Deep Ellum to Bishop Arts and the Design District.
   
  Final Bite: Showcase Your Restaurant in Dallas
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