If you’ve never been to Texas, your first thoughts of Dallas might just be of football and barbecue. But this vibrant big city has so much more to offer and is filled with so many amazing things to do. This time last year, Dusten had a business trip to Dallas that I joined him for, and we had such an amazing time during our two weeks there. There are plenty of things to keep you busy on a trip to Dallas, from museums, sports, and nightlife; but one of my favorite things in Dallas was experiencing the amazing food and vibey restaurants. Whether you’re a local or you plan on visiting sometime in the future, below are 10 great date night spots to add to your list of places to go in Dallas.

-Catbird. Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Catbird has the best rooftop views you’ll find in all of Texas. This vibey spot is located on the 9th floor of The National building and the views make you feel like you’re sipping cocktails in NYC. Dusten and I went for after-dinner drinks, but they also serve food here as well. This was my favorite aperol spritz I’ve ever had.

Hours: Sun-Thurs 4pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 4pm-12:30am

-Carbone. This upscale Italian spot is famous for their spicy vodka pasta and is notoriously difficult to get reservations for at their NYC location. The Dallas location features stunning decor, amazing service, and the same favorite menu items from NYC. Reservations open up 30 days in advance on the Resy app. We unfortunately didn’t get to try this one on our trip, but it’s on my list for our next visit.

Hours: Open everyday from 5pm-11pm

*Photos by @madisonbdavid on Instagram

-Monarch. Also at The National building downtown, this stunning two-Michelin star spot features pasta, steak, and seafood with another beautiful view of downtown Dallas. There is valet parking downstairs and guests are greeted with a glass of champagne at the reception desk before being brought up to the 49th floor on a private elevator. This is definitely a special occasion type of place that would be great for a birthday or anniversary.

Hours: Sun-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri & Sat 5pm-11pm

*photo by @katiestjohn on Instagram

-Paradiso. This Southern-European inspired restaurant in Bishop Arts is so incredibly beautiful and was one of our favorite spots we went to on our Dallas trip. The decor is stunning, the food was delicious, and they also have really beautiful craft cocktails. I’d recommend trying the black truffle spaghetti.

Hours: Lunch everyday from 11am-3pm/ Dinner hours Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri & Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun 5pm-9pm

-Sky Blossom. This Asian-fusion restaurant is another popular rooftop spot downtown that is actually known for their extravagant cocktails (they’re stunning). For dinner, we ordered the dumplings, beef bao, and shaken beef, which was all delicious. I recommend making reservations, as they wouldn’t let us sit outside on the (empty) rooftop patio without one.

Hours: Open everyday from 11am-11pm

*photo by @always.hungry.19 on Instagram

-Lombardi Cucina. This is another great italian spot that has such a beautiful interior. If you’re looking for an instagram worthy picture for your date night, definitely add this to the list.

Hours: Mon-Thurs 4pm-10pm; Fri & Sat 4pm-11pm; Sun 11am-10pm

*Photo by DallasSites101

-Elephant East. If you’re craving Asian food, check out this beautifully decorated Pan-Asian place downtown. The dimly lit interior is filled with decor from all over Asia, making you feel like you’re dining in another country. There is also free valet parking, making this an easy date night spot.

Hours: Fri & Sat 5pm-midnight; Sun, Wed, & Thurs 5pm-10pm; Mon & Tues closed

*Photos by @elephanteastdal on Instagram

-Delucca. Delucca is essentially an upscale Cici’s pizza, in the best way possible. You pay $25 per person and are treated to 19 different all you can eat gourmet pizzas (including dessert pizza), that are brought around to tables like a Brazilian steakhouse. Endless pizza, delicious cocktails, and beautiful decor make this the perfect date night restaurant.

Hours: Mon-Thurs 4:30-9pm; Fri & Sat 4:30-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

*Photos by DeluccaDallas

-Drake’s Hollywood. If your date night is celebrating a birthday, without a doubt you should head to Drake’s. This stunning old-Hollywood themed restaurant treats everyday like a celebration, and their signature desserts are brought out with extravagant sparklers on them.

Hours: Sun-Thurs 4pm-10pm; Fri & Sat 4pm-11pm

*Photos by @drakeshollywood

-The Mister Charles. This new upscale french & Italian restaurant is located in a historic Highland Park building and offers a very luxurious dining experience. Although they just opened this Summer, the restaurant already has raving reviews and is worth the splurge for a special occasion date.

Hours: Sun-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri & Sat 5pm-11pm

*Photos by @themistercharles

I hope these provide inspo for your next date night in Dallas! Let me know if there’s any must-see spots I left out.

XO