Local Take: Dallas
Local Take is your key to our favorite destinations, unlocked by those who know it best.
Stephanie’s Dallas
Meet Stephanie Seay, a Dallas Blogger who came to Texas by way of Oregon, Tennessee, and New York. City-folk at heart, Stephanie and her husband were drawn to Dallas for its vibrant lifestyle and abundance of art and culture. Stephanie’s lifestyle blog, The Seayside, is a reflection of all her favorite things, including travel, art, fashion, and community. When she’s not busy curating her blog, caring for her two young boys, and chasing after her three rescue pups, Stephanie enjoys volunteering with local Dallas organizations, including Equest, Operation Kindness, Cattle Baron’s Ball, and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. Her local take on Dallas offers the inside scoop on the city’s best hotels, restaurants, shops, and hidden gems.
courtesy of Marianne Rodriguez
Stay
The Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is a Texas icon. It’s intimate, upscale, and known for its service. It is our favorite spot for a romantic adult staycation. Even if you’re not staying, don’t miss the Mansion Bar. Pull up a chair at this sophisticated bar, order a Texas Margarita, and keep your eyes peeled for a celebrity sighting. Billy Joel has been known to pop in and play the piano. The Joule, on the other hand, is perfect for a girls getaway. It’s housed in a revitalized 1920s neo-Gothic landmark building in the heart of Dallas and has the most magical spa. The Crescent Court is a business and family-friendly hotel known for its amenities. It’s also home of Nobu Dallas…how many places can your order Nobu to your room?!
See + Do
Klyde Warren Park is the most popular outdoor space in the city. It is always bustling with people, enjoying the large playground, outdoor events, and fitness programs. While there make sure to stop by Abe's Flavor Flave and grab a taco while you enjoy the scenery. The Katy Trail is a walking, biking, running, and skating path in uptown Dallas. It's the perfect place to exercise and has great stops along the way, like the Katy Trail Ice House, where you can grab a drink and watch the game after your workout. The Dallas Arboretum stretches across 66 acres and has incredible views of the lake and the city. Their seasonal displays and programming are cherished by Dallas families and are not to be missed! White Rock Lake is the perfect place for a picnic, there are so many beautiful places along the water to stop and spend the afternoon.
Dine
The Charles is my favorite place in the city to grab Italian food. The eclectic decor and welcoming staff make it the perfect place for a date night. The Bar Charles, is a sexy, fun extension of the restaurant — a nice place to start or end your night. Brunch at Al Biernat’s is a must. But if you stop in for happy hour or dinner, it is one of the best places to people watch. Tei An is a local favorite known for its chic atmosphere and amazing sushi. You can’t leave without trying their curry soba noodles! Of course, when in Dallas, a lingering ladies lunch is practically required. Grange Hall is just the spot. Their snob sandwich — two pieces of buttery brioche, one topped with Texas style egg salad and Petrossian caviar, the other piled high with smoked salmon and créme fraîche — is a must try. Make sure to order it "extra snobby!" Miriam Cocina Latina is elevated Tex Mex with beautiful views of Klyde Warren park. I love their spicy skinny margarita and their enchiladas verdes. Or, if you’re simply looking for small plates and a great wine selection, try Trova, a new addition to Dallas.
Shop
NorthPark Center is home to many of Dallas’ best stores, including high end designers from across the world. Shoppers and art enthusiasts are also captivated by the world class art collection featured there. Of course, you can’t visit the Lone Star State without trying on some cowboy boots. If Miron Crosby in Highland Park Village doesn’t scream Texas, I don’t know what does! Being from Oregon I love a good bookstore. In Dallas, Interabang is my go-to independent bookshop. I love their varied selection and gorgeous displays. Stanley Korshak is a high-end family owned emporium showcasing everything from bridal gowns, to home goods, and all that lies between. I also love the Jan Showers Showroom. There is no shortage of beautiful things in the showroom of this world renowned interior designer and author. You’ll find items from her collections as well as antiques from around the world.
Discover
Fount Board and Table is known for their gorgeous and very instagrammable cheeseboards. It is perfect for grab-and-go for a picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks. The Samurai Collection in the Dallas Harwood District showcases a varied collection of samurai art and objects. It is a truly unique collection and worth stopping in to see. The 42 Murals Project is an urban art project that showcases art from local, national, and international artists on the historic buildings of Deep Ellum. They are always evolving and fun to discover and explore as you walk around this vibrant neighborhood.
