I’ll admit it, Dallas is not my favorite city, but I was born there. I’m grateful my Dad moved us to Austin before I hit puberty. 😉
Over the past 15 years, I have traveled many times to perform in Dallas. Only in the last five years have I actually wanted to stay and linger for a while the next day.
Last weekend my niece was in Dallas and we drove up to visit her. She lives in Illinois, so this was a golden opportunity for us to see her within driving distance.
photo by Carlos Jackson
check-in and STAY…
We have been staying at the Belmont Hotel for the past five years, anchoring us in the Oak Cliff neighborhood. It’s not the most desired location, since the neighborhood can still be pretty rough, but I’ve never felt unsafe.
This is a classic motor court, built in 1946 in the Art Moderne style – a counterpoint to Art Deco. Restored in 2005, it has an unparalleled view of the Dallas skyline. We always try to get a Deluxe room; most of them have views and run from $129 a night.
The lobby and lounge feature artwork from different artists throughout the year. Currently they are presenting a collection from Lisa Lindholm, a local of the Oak Cliff neighborhood. You should stop by the bar in the evening for a drink and check out the collection – it’s really beautiful. Don’t forget to step outside and admire the view!
head to UPTOWN for DINNER…
I can’t remember exactly how we found it, but I’m sure we searched for “tapas” and discovered Si Tapas in the Uptown neighborhood – a quick drive from the Belmont.
I actually eat tiny eels here. I place them on the warm bread they replenish often. Add a plate of boquerones in olive oil with raw garlic. Mmm…we don’t have anything like it in Austin…yet. Totally unpretentious and the real deal.
it’s time for BRUNCH…
We usually go over a weekend, so brunch at Bolsa, also in Oak Cliff, is a must. I get a flat-bread with arugula, goat cheese, and roasted grapes. Great wine list and creative menu. Bonus: it’s housed in an old garage.
Bolsa bar
walk around the BISHOP ARTS DISTRICT…
Visit Dude, Sweet Chocolate and taste delicious artisan chocolate, marshmallows, and other yummies – all for sale.
Get that afternoon espresso pick-me-up at Espumoso.
I really like the curated gallery of items at We Are 1976. It is a working design studio with a really nice collection of artisan goods for sale.
Be sure to see what’s going on at the Dallas Museum of Art. Currently (through June 9, 2013), there is a Cindy Sherman exhibit we would have gone to if we’d had more time. Check out my friend Lindsay’s review of the exhibit!
As we’re heading back to Austin, we pop into Bolsa Mercado for a fresh smoothie or snack. It’s great for stocking up on travel snacks, or picking up a bottle of wine if you decide to stay another night.
I’ve started to look forward to these quick trips. Dallas, I think I like you. 🙂