Catch up on the most exciting food and dining news of each month in Eater Dallas’s newest column.
The most popular news stories this month:
5. An Italian Rooftop and Dallas’s Best Burger Joint Open, Plus More New Restaurants This Month
April brought a few nice new openings to Dallas, most notably the rooftop at Via Triozzi and Burger Schmurger finally opening its own standalone storefront. Or maybe it was the Michelin-recognized omakase spot that got everyone talking? The new openings have been a breath of fresh air in the Dallas food scene, and foodies are eager to try out these new spots.
4. Mahjong Is Having a Moment and Dallas Restaurants Want In
We weren’t kidding — mahjong really is having a moment. This story details several spots around town hosting mahjong nights with cocktails, bites, and in some cases, entirely new menus specially created for these gatherings. Eater Dallas received an email after this story ran from the folks organizing a mahjong league at Times Ten Cellars in Lakewood. For more details about joining in on the fun, visit their website. Mahjong nights have become a great way for people to socialize and have fun while enjoying good food and drinks.
3. After 20 Years of Service in Dallas, Fernando’s Shutters Both Locations — And More Closures This Month
Closings always generate a lot of interest, but this month, the news that a Mexican spot will close both of its locations in Dallas and Richardson came as a surprise. Also closing are TLC Vegan Cafe, the Whippersnapper, and Miznon. The closures have left a void in the Dallas food scene, and fans of these restaurants are sad to see them go.
2. 13 Million Views Later, a 37-Year-Old Dallas Restaurant Becomes a Viral Hit
A Persian cafe in West Dallas, near Love Field, has been open for nearly four decades, but it received a jolt of attention from social media users around the world after a TikToker posted a POV of their lunch there. Samad CafĂ© has really taken off. The restaurant’s sudden fame has brought in new customers, and the owners are thrilled to see their business booming.
1. Here Are the Dallas 2025 James Beard Award Finalists
Dallas ended up with the most Beard finalists not only in Texas but in the entire South. The TL;DR of it all is that Chad Houser of Cafe Momentum will receive the prestigious Humanitarian of the Year Award, RJ Yoakum at Georige is in the running for Emerging chef, Mabo is up for Best New Restaurant, Bar Colette is nominated as Best New Bar, Starship Bagel has a nomination as Outstanding Bakery, and Regino Rojas of Purépecha is North Texas’s only nominees for Best Chef: Texas. The awards will be given out on Monday, June 16. The James Beard Awards are a big deal in the food industry, and Dallas is proud to have so many talented chefs and restaurants represented.
In case you missed it:
A Top Palestinian Restaurant From New York City Will Open an Outpost in Richardson
Eater Dallas broke the news about this excellent restaurant coming to Richardson. We’ll have more to share soon. The owner tells us it will be open in about three months. The new restaurant is expected to bring a unique flavor to the Dallas food scene, and fans of Palestinian cuisine are eagerly awaiting its opening.
How One of LA’s Most Talented Chefs Injected Life Into Dallas’s Fine Dining Scene
We caught up with the new chef at the mansion, Charles Olalia, to find out how he is marrying Filipino foods with the fine dining menu at this legendary Dallas restaurant. He has some incredible stuff on the menu, and this photo-driven story gives readers a peek into what’s cooking. The combination of Filipino flavors with fine dining is a game-changer, and foodies are loving the new menu.
The Best Patios in Dallas
Patio weather has been exceptional this spring, so it is no surprise that folks are looking for the best patios to sit on. Our current favorite is La Passage, which took over the next-door Rose Cafe to expand its brunch patio. That’s how much people are enjoying it. The patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or drinks on a sunny day, and La Passage is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great outdoor dining experience.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dallas food scene is thriving, with new restaurants opening, old favorites closing, and unique dining experiences popping up all over the city. From mahjong nights to James Beard Award finalists, there’s always something new and exciting happening in Dallas. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great place to grab a bite, Dallas has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the most popular restaurants in Dallas right now?
A: Some of the most popular restaurants in Dallas right now include Via Triozzi, Burger Schmurger, and Samad Café. These restaurants have been getting a lot of attention for their unique menus and dining experiences.
Q: What is mahjong and why is it popular in Dallas?
A: Mahjong is a popular tile-based game that is often played in social settings. In Dallas, mahjong has become a trendy activity, with many restaurants and bars hosting mahjong nights with food, drinks, and prizes. It’s a fun and interactive way to socialize and meet new people.
Q: How can I stay up-to-date with the latest food news in Dallas?
A: To stay current with the latest food news and trends in Dallas, sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media. We’ll keep you informed about new restaurant openings, closures, and the latest developments in the Dallas food scene.

