Whether you’re interested in tasting unparalleled Tex-Mex and barbecue (washed down with a cold margarita, of course) or a fine diner with a view, these seven restaurants reign supreme.

Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck

If you want to treat yourself, make reservations at Five Sixty, Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant at the top of the tower that serves modern Asian cuisine. While you take in the full 360-degree view of the city as the room rotates, explore the extensive sushi menu or go full-Texan with a 32-oz prime rib steak. Dinner will set you back a pretty penny, but another option is to visit during happy hour—for almost the same price as a ticket to the viewing platform, you can enjoy a drink or two and the same fabulous view.

300 Reunion Blvd. | +1 214 571 5784

Neighborhood Services

Neighborhood Services is consistently named one of the best restaurants in Dallas. While the food is delicious and the decor trendy, the atmosphere is delightfully Texas casual. There’s not much you won't like on the New American menu, but the dry-aged burger was named one of the 2015 best in Dallas by D Magazine. Other crowd pleasers are the fried little asparagus, butcher’s meatballs, and crab and green chile dip to start.

5027 W. Lovers Lane | +1 214 350 5027

Smoke

If you’re looking for a spot to Sunday brunch, look no further than Smoke to find some true Texas cooking. With very reasonable prices and a homey vibe, the restaurant boasts a menu that blends the southern and Mexican traditions of Texas. Two standouts for brunch are the pulled whole hog BBQ eggs Benedict and the blueberry and house made ricotta pancakes.

901 Ft. Worth Ave. | +1 214 393 4141

Pecan Lodge

When it comes to food, Texas is famous for two things: barbecue and Tex-Mex. Pecan Lodge is the best barbecue joint in the city (and it was ranked number two in the state by Texas Monthly). Be prepared for long lines, but the wait is well worth it to try the meticulously prepared brisket (as well as a wider range of barbecue offerings like pulled pork and a “Hot Mess” loaded baked potato). Top it off with a local beer and a bowl of banana pudding, and you’ve officially tasted Texas.

2702 Main St. | +1 214 748 8900

Mr. Mesero

It’s hard to choose a favorite Mexican-influenced restaurant among the many on offer in Dallas, but Mr. Mesero is definitely at the top of the list. Billed as “American + Mexican” food, the menu has a delicious range of offerings. From refreshing takes on traditional Mexican fare like tacos and enchiladas to burgers and a “Big D” dog, visitors can get the best of Texas in one meal.

4444 McKinney Ave. | +1 214 780 1991

Zen Sushi

Sushi is a religion at this Bishop Arts District hotspot. Chef Michelle Carpenter puts her own spin on her creations with local flavors like chili sauce, cilantro, and sriracha. Credited with creating the caterpillar role, Carpenter has a distinct approach to sushi that can be tasted in every bite. For a real splurge, try the omakase 10-course tasting menu that will set you back $120 per person (and needs to be reserved in advance).

380 W. 7th St. | +1 214 946 9699

Mi Cocina

Mi Cocina may be a chain restaurant, but ask any of the locals (who will fondly call it MiCo), and they’ll tell you: it’s the go-to spot for affordable but delicious Mexican food in Dallas. Get just about anything on the menu for a taste of what Tex-Mex is all about. It’s a great place to bring the family or for a casual business lunch, but keep in mind that locals flock to Mi Cocina like it’s their family dinner table.

Various locations throughout Dallas

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