As I rounded up fun places to eat for Mother’s Day, I kept coming across restaurants that felt a little more Dad-ish. So I made a separate list in anticipation of Father’s Day (June 20, 2021).
What makes a restaurant Dad-ish? Obviously there are all types of dads with all types of tastes, but the places below do share a certain je ne sais quoi. If you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate Father’s Day in Dallas beyond your basic steakhouse, have a look at these ideas. And don’t forget a reservation!
Stock & Barrel ($$, Dallas)
Classic American fare in a laid-back industrial space in Bishop Arts. Great cocktails and appys, and the food is just upscale enough to be special without being “too much.” MENU HERE.
Henry’s Majestic ($$, Dallas)
You can get brunch, lunch (Tues-Fri), or dinner at this McKinney Ave. tavern, with extensive cocktail menus to accompany each. Rustic yet stylish décor, a large outdoor patio space, and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. You have to check out the menus—mouthwatering! MENUS HERE.
Another Henry (no relation) to consider for Father’s Day: The Henry has both a great menu and gorgeous design. I haven’t been yet, but it is on my short list!
Smithy ($$, Dallas)
Clean lines and an eye-catching façade make for great ambiance at this Knox-Henderson joint, offering locally-sourced food for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Dine inside or out on family-style shared plates, ‘Unique Eats,’ and more. I’d say the menus are slightly more adventurous than the norm, but in a good way—there’s lots to like. Keep in mind they close at 4pm on Sundays. MENUS HERE.
Yo Lobster ($$-$$$, Dallas)
Highland Park Village is always a great place to be for an occasion. Have a laid back but delicious Father’s Day at this new-ish seafood spot. Lobster rolls, crab Louie (love!), fish & chips, and more. Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-3pm. There’s inside or outside seating, and the vibe is cool and casual. MENU HERE.
The Slow Bone ($$, Dallas)
I’m not a BBQ connoisseur, but I know people who are, and they tell me this is one of the best spots in town (after Cattleack Barbecue which isn’t open on Sundays, dangit!). Slow Bone has no-frills decor with a down-home Texas vibe. And they offer lots of sides in addition to the fried chicken and BBQ items. Love some good sides, especially when so many places stick to potato salad and coleslaw. MENU HERE.
The link between dads and BBQ is undeniable. Some other top notch local spots to try: Terry Blacks, Ferris Wheelers, or Pecan Lodge.
Ozona Grill & Bar ($$, Dallas)
Looking for a good patio option? Sit under the big trees and enjoy brunch-y Texas comfort food at Ozona’s on Greenville. If you’re looking for a Michelin star meal, it may not be the place to choose, but the ambiance and drink specials help make this spot shine. MENU HERE.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar ($$, Dallas)
An award-winning restaurant with indoor/outdoor dining options and great presentation. Dads will love the brunch menu (and so will you). Yardbird is across the street from Klyde Warren park, so you can easily hang out and play before or after your meal. Be advised, since this is downtown, there’s no dedicated restaurant parking lot. Street/garage parking or valet. MENUS HERE.
Union Bear Brewing Co. ($$, Plano)
Part of the Boardwalk at Granite Park, this independent brewery/restaurant is booth cool-looking and delicious. Indoor or outdoor seating and a menu of “chef-driven takes on American classics” for weekend brunch or daily lunch and dinner. They even have corn hole and bocce ball outside if the kids get restless. MENU HERE.
Legacy Food Hall ($-$$, Plano)
Browse the food stalls, ordering anything and everything (all the genres!), then pick a table in the multi-level outdoor common space. They’ll have a Father’s Day Blues Brunch on Sunday that’s free to attend, but to reserve a table and partake in the brunch itself, you’ll need to purchase tickets at the link. MENUS HERE.
Sugarbacon Proper Kitchen ($$, McKinney)
Pop over to Historic Downtown McKinney for southern-inspired brunch or dinner (and maybe a whiskey flight for old dad). It’s a nice balance between upscale and casual, making it perfect for a family Father’s Day outing. And of course you’ll want to try the sugar bacon starter. Downtown McKinney is lovely and it would be fun to walk around after your meal if the weather plays nice. MENU HERE.
Cheers to all the dads out there this Father’s Day!
