Dallas, TX

Lee Diaz: This is a great stop for brunch or dinner. My go-to is the Buffalo Mac & Cheese. It has a blend of tangy spice with cheesy richness.

Lee Diaz: This is a great neighborhood coffee shop with excellent breakfast tacos, and occasional local musicians.

Lee Diaz: Fantastic brunch location with a tasty assortment of breads and pastries. A carafe (or two) of mimosas will definitely get the day moving.

Lee Diaz: Quality coffee options with a fantastic staff! It is also a great place to work from if you need a quick business retreat while on vacation.

Lee Diaz: Although it is open all day, this is a brunch staple in Dallas. Definitely consider the chicken & waffles... with the sauces on the side so you can season as you desire.

Lee Diaz: If you're looking for some amazing meats for a grill out, start here. Kuby's also offers great breakfast options -- try the breakfast biscuit (and prepare for a nap afterward), or dinner on weekends.

Lee Diaz: Although they have plenty of fantastic plates, you should definitely consider the chicken fried steak! It's excellent. Check out their website to see if there is live music the night you are visiting.

Lee Diaz: This is a more upscale BBQ experience with a broader offering of starters and sides than most BBQ spots. Try some great cocktails to pair with your meal.

Lee Diaz: A great Dallas brunch spot... however, you shouldn't overlook the fantastic menu that they offer for dinner. Some great options for the Gluten Free eater.

Lee Diaz: Tons of unique taco options, fantastic queso and tasty guacamole. You really can't go wrong. One of my favorites is the Trailer Park (get it Trashy), or something from the Secret Menu -- ask for it.

Lee Diaz: A local favorite for coffee and breakfast in the morning, but all the more, late at night when you want an excellent bite.

Lee Diaz: Discover a fantastic offering of unique donut flavor mixes, and for the non-donut eaters some excellent chicken biscuits.

Lee Diaz: Fantastic neighborhood bakery that is often missed even by locals. So, be in the know, grab an Americano, and select from a variety of amazing goodies -- the croissants are a must.

Lee Diaz: A great spot for a quick coffee break and relatively quiet location to get some work done. Plenty of space indoors and a patio in the front when the weather is nice.

Lee Diaz: Great stop for some excellent coffee AND freshly pressed juices. It is also a popular spot if you want to up your Instagram game.

Lee Diaz: A Dallas staple well-known by locals. This Italian shop offers all of those market finds you are looking for, with fantastic foods, especially the sandwiches. The prosciutto panino is a personal fave.

Lee Diaz: A perfect spot in the industrial district to get your caffeine fix and grab a bite. The Wi-Fi is strong just in case you need to knock out a little work. But parking can be tough, so be patient.

Lee Diaz: Incredible burgers. Not a lot of seating, so if you can, try to beat the lunch or dinner rush so you don't have to battle a line. The line does move AND the burgers are well worth the wait!

Lee Diaz: Pecan Lodge has become a MUST for BBQ fanatics visiting Dallas. A 2-meat plate should hit the spot. Try it with the mac & cheese and fried okra. If you are feeling daring, try the Hot Mess.

Lee Diaz: You can find an assortment of quality brews and fantastic flavors at Braindead. It's a great place to start or finish an afternoon or evening of exploring Deep Ellum.

Lee Diaz: Where music, tasty eats, and quality drinks meet. Bands play free shows on most nights. Grab a drink to sit on the rooftop patio. Or try a menu that boasts plenty of Gluten Free and Vegetarian options

Lee Diaz: Bar with a roaring 20s darker feel that offers some compelling flavors developed by local mixologists. I like the Smoking Gun (and you will too if you have an affinity for bourbon).

Lee Diaz: Quality stop if you are looking for some time to relax on a patio for a drink in your hand. Try a margarita and the jalapeño bottle caps to introduce a little spice to your life.

Lee Diaz: Aside from offering an excellent menu -- the Drunk Chick is an item that you should not miss -- this location boasts a ton of patio / lawn space to enjoy with friends, and a great concert calendar.

Lee Diaz: One of my Deep Ellum favorites. Incredible drinks, like the Bonnie & Clyde. Start with the Pulpo, then consider their burger (ask what the burger of the week is), and get the Spatzle as your side.

Lee Diaz: Come for the fantastic beer selection, and stay for the food. Check out the Shrimp & Grits, or the Signature Pastrami (it's cured for 3-days and smoked for 15-hours = Insanely flavorful).

Lee Diaz: Take your expectations for tacos and throw them out the window. Velvet offers unique flavors that will satisfy any palate. Look at the Rotisserie Chicken (#2), Grilled Flank (#11) and Tots.

Lee Diaz: This spot has a fantastic beer selection and excellent menu. But hands down, you cannot miss the Cheese Boards -- pick from a list of some amazing cheese and meat flavors to fit your palete.

Lee Diaz: Find beers from many of your favorite Texas breweries in one place! Get a flight to try a little bit over everything, grab a pint, or fill a growler to go. They don't serve food, so you can order in.

Lee Diaz: A seasonal menu that maintains local favorites. Incredible selection of beers on tap. I suggest grabbing a number of shared plates: Marrow, Wagyu Carpaccio, Duck Wings, Moth Balls. Pair with a brew.

Lee Diaz: Easily one of the top pizza places in Dallas. If you're feeling a little spicy, try the Friday Night Frankie. But really, just ask for the Honey Bastard (you won't regret it!). Fri/Sat = Lasagna.

Lee Diaz: Chill spot with a great patio to connect with friends or share a table to make new ones. Quality beer selection with full bar. Try the Cheese Fries (large) to start, and match with the Belly Up.

Lee Diaz: Some unique starters matched with classic house steaks. If you're looking for something a little different, try the wild game section of the menu.

Lee Diaz: Quality Texas BBQ just a stones throw away from DFW Airport. Try a few shrimp (or chicken) poppers to start with brisket (of course, brisket!).

Lee Diaz: A great paleo-friendly menu (if you're into that). The House Bowls have set offerings or can be made-to-order if you want to create your own food adventure. The Cochinita Nachos are a must.

Lee Diaz: Great upscale feel right next to Klyde Warren Park. The Antipasto Board is a great way to start. The Scallops & Pork Belly provide a surprisingly flavorful combination.

Lee Diaz: The rooftop lounge is a great spot to grab a drink with friends while enjoying a bit of the Dallas skyline. They do have a quality menu, but I always seem to meet friends here for the lounge.

Lee Diaz: Great drinks, quality bar bites, and a chill patio atmosphere with plenty of space to stretch out. The beer menu is impressive. Try the duck fat cheese fries.

Lee Diaz: Great feel and fantastic rooftop deck just blocks away from the American Airlines Center (for a Mavs or Stars game). Big fan of the Mexican Mule.

Lee Diaz: Chill in this outdoor spot with plenty of seating and shade, just steps away from some other great Lower Greenville favorites. Check the website for a daily line-up of Food Trucks. Weekend live tunes!

Lee Diaz: Tillman's offers incredible flavors (like the Stuffed Poblano or Chicken Fried Steak). BUT the dessert is where it's at with the Tableside S'mores. Toast your mallow and get ready for gooey goodness.

Lee Diaz: Two words. Chicken Fingers. They are fantastic, and are made even better with sides like Green Chile & Hominy Mac n' Cheese, and stewed Collard Greens (and don't forget the biscuit).

Lee Diaz: You haven't done Dallas Tex Mex until you have been to Manny's. It's a staple that delivers all of your favorites. Start things off with the Uptown Queso and let the meal flow from there.

Lee Diaz: Excellent BBQ, but if you can, try to make it for Burnt Ends on Thursday! Seriously. You won't regret it.

Lee Diaz: Dinner is incredible. If you didn't make a reservation, you can still get a taste by going to the Lounge for Happy Hour. The Izakaya menu is quality, drinks on point & the 360-rotating view is cool.

Lee Diaz: Although not unique to Dallas, Ocean Prime boasts a quality offering of seafood and steaks. I tend to go straight to the Surf & Turf with the Jalapeño au Gratin.

Lee Diaz: Warm open feel welcomes you into an unforgettable culinary experience. Call ahead, bring friends and get the Pig Head Carnitas. If you are going alone, grab the Pork Rinds followed the Steak & Frites.

Lee Diaz: If you love charcuterie, get the plate here. The Tuna Tartare is another great way to start, and I like to go Old School on the menu with the Ribeye.

Lee Diaz: Plenty of great options, but my eyes tend to go directly to the Shrimp N Grits. With everything else on the menu, I did not expect this as a favorite, but it is. And of course, close with the churros.

Lee Diaz: Try the Long Walk to Nashville with Grilled Corn Maque Choux. Don't miss Whisk(e)y Wednesdays if you can help it.

Lee Diaz: You cannot go wrong here. Although you can always rely on the classics, you should consider the Japanese beef options. As for cocktails, you should try the Strawberry.

Lee Diaz: Exemplifying the diversity of flavors available in Dallas, Rise No. 1 delivers delectable savory and sweet soufflés for a memorable dining experience. Don't skip to the sweets. Start savory.

Lee Diaz: A seasonal menu means you'll find your favorites while still discovering something new. It's hard for me not to skip directly to the pasta here, but for something different, try the White Clam Pie.

Lee Diaz: Wood-Grilled Gulf Oysters and a Sazerac. Somehow it seems to work.

Lee Diaz: Fantastic flavors abound! Try the avocado kiwi margarita paired with the ceviche. Then maybe work your way to the pork chop.

Lee Diaz: A classic drive-in burger place that has been around since the 60's. Stop in for a quick bite and catch a few of the classic cars that seem to always pass through. And bring cash!

Lee Diaz: Incredible taco flavors. Be sure to go straight to the Funky Tacos list: Pulpo, Camaron Al Pesto and Norento are great places to start.

Lee Diaz: Incredible Japanese experience. Consider the ramen (tonkotsu) or soba noodles matched with some sashimi.

Lee Diaz: Fantastic unique atmosphere. Where else can you find a yellow submarine in a giant fish tank (seriously)!? The extensive menu will allow you to find something for everyone.

Lee Diaz: All of your favorite sushi dishes and some unique flavors. Consider the Elvis "mack" Sashimi as you are making your selections.

Lee Diaz: Comfortable environment with quality plates. Consider looking at the nightly plate special.

Lee Diaz: Great spot for a stroll and some great photos. There is also a cool kids area on top of the overall space. Check their calendar for events and evening concerts.

Lee Diaz: Lakewood isn't in Lakewood... it's in Garland, and totally worth the quick trip. Grab one of their fantastic brews (tons of barrel aged offerings) and a pizza from the permanent food truck outside.

Lee Diaz: The pastries and desserts are the things that dreams are made of. Yes, there is other great food if you want something a little more substantial.

Lee Diaz: A fresh quality menu, but you may want to skip down to the Coffee Cocktails. Yes, coffee + cocktail = amazingness.

Lee Diaz: Great chill spot with some quality coffee. Grab coffee on the run, but really consider just taking a seat for a while to take it all in.

Lee Diaz: Quality coffee and plenty of space if you need to get some work done.

Lee Diaz: Popsicles have grown up! There are a ton of great flavors in the fruity or creamy categories. A few of my favorites include coconut and coffee.

Lee Diaz: Imagine a warm glazed donut and your favorite ice cream topped with a breakfast cereal and you have an idea of what you get here. Fantastic dessert. Totally sharable (though you won't want to).

Lee Diaz: Fantastic mix of flavors from consistent pies to seasonal offerings. Try the Drunken Nut: bourbon pecan with a shortbread crust.

Lee Diaz: Rolled ice cream is a fun new-ish thing. It's fun to pick your flavors and see them be frozen and rolled up right before your eyes.

Lee Diaz: Great spot to meet friends and catch an incredible happy hour. The Tots and Meatballs are great choices to help you get started.

Lee Diaz: Free general admission to allow you to explore long-time exhibits, with special exhibits that may require an additional ticket. Check their website special event hours (like Late Nights).

Lee Diaz: Need a great place to run or cycle, or just get out for a little bit? Head to White Rock. The 9.3 mile loop is a great place for some training or just for a scenic stroll.

Lee Diaz: Capture a unique 360-degree view of Dallas from 470 feet up. Hope you're not afraid of heights.

Lee Diaz: Built above the highway, this urban park offers plenty of seating if you want to chill, some grass to layout on, and food trucks for a quick bite. Take a look at the event calendar for live music.

Lee Diaz: The individual venues that make up the Arts Center bring top plays, musicals and outdoor concert events. The Winspear reflecting pool is a great spot for capturing that perfect photo.

Lee Diaz: Get to know the history of JFK and the days leading up to the world shaking events in 1963. The audio tour is one of the best I have heard. Get tickets ahead of time to set your visit date & time.

Lee Diaz: Take a seat in the Oval Office, explore an amazing 9-11 memorial and take on the role of President. Stop off at Cafe 43 to try some of Mrs. Bush's favorite foods and her famous Cowboy Cookies.

Lee Diaz: Discover the permanent exhibition on the art and culture of Japanese samurai, complimented with temporary exhibits. Admission is free.

Lee Diaz: The plaza has a fascinating sculpture of a cattle drive that has 49 bronze steers and 3 trail riders.

Lee Diaz: A truly amazing sight. Catch a Dallas Cowboys game during the football season, or schedule a Tour of the stadium.

Lee Diaz: Visit the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters with a tour or get a taste of the football experience in the Ford Center with plenty of turf to run some drills or catch a pass on.

Lee Diaz: The brews are top notch. And the taproom offers everything you might need: TV's, board games, ping pong, etc. Catch a brewery tour on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month between 1 - 3pm.

Lee Diaz: Noble Rey is a great spot to grab quality unique brews while playing classic video games and battling in giant jenga. Stumble upon seasonal runs like Yub-Nub. Maybe catch Thursday night Open Comedy.

Lee Diaz: A great spot to find a last minute concert (check their site for the calendar). Beyond concerts, try to catch Tot Tuesday and Chess Club and the Slider of the Month (mini burgers).

Lee Diaz: Looking to grow your vinyl collection while you're traveling? Then you MUST stop here. Visit for happy hour. Or if you're lucky, you might even catch a free "Live from the Astroturf" show.

Lee Diaz: Wonderful cozy bookstore just off the beaten path. Try to catch the monthly Poetry Open Mic Salon, or any of their other great events.

Lee Diaz: I first wandered in for the succulents, and then found myself leaving with some great finishing pieces for the apartment. And you'll likely do the same. Great stop for a little shopping in Deep Ellum.

Lee Diaz: Locate those unique vintage finds that exemplify your own personal style. Discover clothing and old boots, kitchenware, gizmos and gadgets, furniture, vinyl, posters, and just about anything else.

Lee Diaz: If you have been struggling to find that unique piece of taxidermy, vintage holiday decoration, or finishing art for your garden that will really start some conversations, this is your place.

Lee Diaz: As the name eludes to, this is an antique store focused on items that guys tend to enjoy: military, gas stations, sports, music, etc. You never know what you might find.

Lee Diaz: Dallas' first location dedicated to brewing hard ciders. They offer some great options to get your evening started before you explore everything that the Bishop Arts District has to offer.

Lee Diaz: Ida Claire offers some great Southern fare (see what I did there?). The drink selection offers a variety of Juleps and other flavorful options. Also try the crawfish beignets and fried green tomatoes

Lee Diaz: Fantastic happy hour spot. You may want to try the Buffalo Cauliflower, Wagyu Corndogs and Naked Wings.

Lee Diaz: An excellent dinner spot, but I also find myself here often for lunch. The steak frites are definitely worthy of your consideration.

Lee Diaz: Great lively spot with some incredible dishes. I would start with the Queso Fundido and move onto "The Chairman". When the weather is looking good, get some time on the patio.

Lee Diaz: If you are a burger fan, you MUST make a stop here. Even if you just kind of like burgers, consider this stop. Plenty of options -- I go basic with the Royale with Cheese. Shakes made with Blue Bell!

Lee Diaz: Stroll the halls of the Statler Hotel to find a dead end and a phone booth. Pick up the phone and dial a few numbers to see what is revealed. Drinks give a nod to barbershop roots. Try the Pompadour.

Lee Diaz: "Take me out to the ball game!" Try to catch a Texas Rangers game or take a tour of the stadium. It does get a little toasty over the summer, so pack sunscreen.