Best Places To Eat Before A Show In DFW
No need to go to Broadway to see a show when you can relish in a wonderful selection of performing arts venues right here in the Metroplex. As entertainment and eating go hand in hand, enjoying a pre-performance dinner at these DFW restaurants is sure to start your evening off on a perfect note. Keep in mind that most evening shows begin around 7 p.m. or 8 p.m., so reserve well in advance and let your server know that you're on your way to the show.
Ferré
215 E. 4th St.
Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 332-0033
www.ferrerestaurant.com
Those attending a performance at the Bass Hall will enjoy the variety of restaurants and nightlife available at nearby Sundance Square, including Ferré, a fabulous contemporary Italian restaurant located directly across the street. The menu features something for everyone—from bruschetta and brick-oven pizzas to pasta, seafood and steaks. Be sure to save room for the scrumptious desserts or if you want to keep it light, the velvety chocolate martini is the perfect way to start the night.
Tillman's Roadhouse
2933 Crockett St.
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 850-9255
www.tillmansroadhouse.com
If you're going to a show at Casa Mañana, you will find yourself right in the middle of Fort Worth's Cultural District and within a few blocks of the great restaurants scattered throughout the 7th Street corridor. Tillman's Roadhouse, located two blocks over from the theater, is a fun dining spot with an eclectic menu of creative offerings and top-notch cocktails that will boost anyone's spirit. Dishes like crispy pork belly with Dr. Pepper glaze, shrimp and grits and gourmet burgers are worthy of a standing ovation and the table-side s'mores are the perfect finale.
Related: Best Bars For Foodies In DFW
Cafe Des Artists
1722 Routh St.
Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 217-6888
www.cafedadallas.com
The outstanding performance venues at the AT&T Performing Arts Center as well as the neighboring Meyerson Symphony Center has transformed the Arts District into the heart and soul of downtown Dallas. You'll have no problem finding a place to eat within walking distance from the district, however if you want to get in on a real steal, take advantage of the Performing Arts Center's restaurant deals available to those attending a show. Pre-performance, three-course dinners are offered at 10 participating restaurants at prices ranging from $35 to $75. One of the best nearby restaurants on the list is the new trendy Cafe Des Artists— offering a broad range of selections for $55— including everything from butternut squash soup to lobster risotto and raspberry creme brulee.
Cook Hall
2440 Victory Lane
Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 397-4111
www.cookhalldallas.com
Whether you're going to a concert or a big game at the American Airlines Center, you'll be in good company with the selection of bars and restaurants in the Victory Park area. One of the newest hot spots is Cook Hall, a gourmet gastropub located inside the W Hotel. The phenomenal menu offers everything from small plates of snacks and gourmet sandwiches to steaks, seafood and ribs. If you're going to a show between Monday and Friday, take advantage of the 5@5 happy hour featuring discounted drinks and $5 small plate options. Eating here comes with benefits, including two hours of complimentary valet parking and $5 for each additional hour after that, making it a better deal than parking at the A.A. Center.
Cool River Cafe
1045 Hidden Ridge
Irving, TX 75038
(972) 871-8881
www.coolrivercafe.com
Many of the area's best concert venues take place at Grand Prairie's Verizon Center, but unless you want fast food, you'll be hard pressed to find much else in the general vicinity. However, Irving is only 20 minutes away and there you'll find a host of interesting dining options, including the Cool River Cafe offering up everything from fantastic steaks and seafood in the restaurant to a great selection of tantalizing appetizers and less expensive menu options in the bar. Even better, Cool River offers drink specials every day of the week, so you can get the party started before the big show.
Related: Best Concert Halls & Theaters In North Texas
Ilene Jacobs is a freelance writer living in Dallas, Texas. Ilene enjoys writing about a variety of topics, ranging from food, fitness and travel, to kids, pets and senior care. You can find some of her work at Examiner.com.
