I moved to the L Streets back in 2012 and now live in another Lake Highlands neighborhood. Katherine hit the nail on the head as to what makes Lake Highlands so great when she shared her own faves. I, too, love that Lake Highlands feels like a small town within Dallas. I have my own recommendations and since this part of Dallas is constantly growing and changing, there are always great new spots to enjoy.
There is so much to love about Lake Highlands. My favorite is the proximity to White Rock Lake, at the edge of the boundaries to our neighborhood. I knew I wanted to move here thanks to the bike and run trails around the lake and easy access to the Dallas Arboretum.
The people are genuine and I’m constantly meeting new mom friends who are smart, kind and if you need recommendations of any sort our community Facebook group will provide plenty of trustworthy options in minutes.
Here are some of my shining stars of the Lake Highlands neighborhood.
Favorite Date Night Spots in Lake Highlands
Top Golf :: Head on over if you need a great option for an active date. My husband and I have been going since we were dating. They have a good menu and you can reserve a bay ahead of time online. If you don’t feel like the driving range experience, you and your date can also enjoy one of their three 18-hole putt-putt courses. No golf experience necessary!
Lochlands :: Did you know Lake Highlands had a beer garden? We do! And, it’s brought to you by the same folks who made the Dubliner, a staple of and the longest-running Irish Pub, on Greenville Avenue. The beer list is long but if that’s not your thing, go for the Hibiscus Mule!
Tony’s :: Locals know that Tony’s is a wonderful place to go for New York style pizza and pasta. Bonus, you can BYOB. Just don’t fill up on the garlic bread knots before your entree arrives! If you’ve been, you know why the line spills out the door at dinner. If you haven’t checked it out, put it on your list for the next date night!
Favorite Places for Moms Night Out in Lake Highlands
Alamo Draft House :: As moms, we often spend our movie nights watching the latest Disney show. So it’s always fun to get out for a girls’ night and enjoy a more mature type of movie. Grab your gals and get tickets for Alamo Drafthouse. In my book, it’s always nice to be able to combine dinner and a movie because time is often so limited. Their menu is ample and even though it’s a draft house there are lots of options for cocktails and wine, too.
Room 12:20 Bistro :: Even one of my besties who lived abroad in Paris was a fan when I took her to this local French bistro. The mushroom soup is delicious and the quiche won’t disappoint. It’s a charming spot!
Taco Diner :: A mambo taxi and chips and salsa hit the spot at Taco Diner or Mi Cocina (just across Skillman). I might opt for Taco Diner as MiCo tends to be a bit more crowded but they both are a no fail for an MNO. At MiCo, try the Rico Salad and at Taco Diner, my favorite is the Mexico City Bowl. If I had to pick the best chips and salsa in Dallas, I’d easily vote for either!
I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a shoutout to Vector Brewing, which I featured in my best MNO spots all around town, too. It’s a Lake Highlands favorite!
Favorite Places to Take the Kids in Lake Highlands
Forest Green Branch of the Dallas Public Library :: The new Forest Green Branch of the Dallas Public Library is a neighborhood gem. We love the Audelia Road Branch as well but we’re so thrilled for a brand new location to enjoy. The library underwent so many great updates and reopened in September. Make sure you have a library card – easy to do online and spend some time with kids picking out their favorite books.
Lake House Bar & Grill :: I’ve been going to Lake House Bar and Grill since probably the week they opened. I lived super close at the time and even though we’ve moved to a different neighborhood, we usually go every Wednesday as a family to give me a break from cooking. It’s a super family and dog-friendly patio and only about a mile from Flagpole Hill so it’s a great option for heading over after going to the park. My kids (and mine) favorite is the macaroni and cheese. I also love their salmon, veggie and cauliflower mash plate. And my husband is a big fan of their many beers on top. The vibe is chill and you’ll often see tons of runners and bikers stopping in after exercising at White Rock Lake.
Squishies :: We just got a new bubble tea place this summer in Lakeridge Village. I took my kids the first week when they were doing a soft opening and offering free smoothies and drinks. We go back almost every week or so and my kids are huge fans of their peach mango smoothie. I’m obsessed with their lavender Boba tea. They have several dessert options and a good list of hot teas, too. It is a perfect spot to do a mommy date with your kids.
Favorite Places for a Moment Alone in Lake Highlands
Deluxe Nail Salon:: I debated where to categorize this one because it is the only salon I’ve taken my daughter to as part of a mommy/daughter date. They do a phenomenal job with kids and even have Hello Kitty and princess chairs for the little ones. But, when you need a moment alone – this is a great spot. Pop in your earbuds and get a great mani and pedi. When you go run errands and make that grocery run to Sprouts, this is the perfect way to finish your day out and take time for yourself.
White Rock Coffee :: Even though a new Starbucks moved next door to this neighborhood fave a few years ago, the line at White Rock coffee is usually long because the locals know it’s the best. Enjoy an iced coffee on the patio in the nicer months or head inside with a good book, a White Rocker, and a pastry when it’s cooler and you need a few moments to yourself. Also, check out their calendar of live music on the weekends.
Dallas Running Club :: While this is not a location, it is a club that meets in Lake Highlands. No matter what level of fitness you’re at, the Dallas Running Club (DRC) offers something for everyone. They meet off Northwest Highway near the L Streets at their headquarters and train at White Rock Lake. Getting a few moments alone to train with like-minded adults is great for your physical fitness and also for clearing your mind. So whether you want to train for that first marathon or simply get in a great walking group check them out!
My Favorite Hidden Gem in Lake Highlands
Firebox:: Drive-thru Sushi? Don’t knock it until you tried it. The Texas Tornado has been my favorite for over a decade.
For my fellow Lake Highlands moms, what’s your favorite spot and why?
