It seems like everyone is traveling the world this summer, and with the Olympics coming up we’ve got a bit of the travel bug too! Luckily, there are tons of places in Dallas that feel like you’ve been transported to another country – without the traveling. Explore the list below and plan your vacay around the world, right here in DFW, complete with an itinerary for your meal!
Updated July 2024
Asia Times Square
While not a singular restaurant, we couldn’t make this list and not shout out Asia Times Square. This massive market meets food hall is one of the largest Asian markets in Texas, with over 20 dining spots. You’ll find a wide variety of cuisines here, so we recommend taking a tour of multiple spots! Pictured above, their Lunar New Year celebrations are an amazing experience.
Country: Vietnam, Japan, Korea & more
Meal itinerary: You truly can’t go wrong with anything here, but we recommend starting your journey with a Korean corn dog from Two Hands. If you have room for entrees, head to The Pearl for authentic dim sum, or Happy Lamb for Mongolian Hot Pot! Finish with Chinese pastries from Hong Kong Bakery!
Grand Prairie | Directions
Ayahuasca Cantina
Travel through the jungles of the Yucatán and late nights out in Mexico City via this moody speakeasy! Find Ayahuasca in the back of Xaman Cafe – enter through the front and walk all the way to the wooden door in the back.
Country: Mexico
Meal itinerary: Explore their agave spirits – the Pulqueoma or the La Dona are our go-to's, both made with traditional Mexican spirits. If you’re looking for a stronger excursion, order a flight of sotol! For your meal, begin with the Ceviche Baja, followed by Enmolada De Cochinita, a pulled pork and pibil dish. End your trip with Churros De Totomoxtle!
Bishop Arts | Directions
Baboush
This stunning spot in the West Village is straight out of Arabian Nights! This sexy spot is full of colorful tiles, hanging lanterns, and ornate silks that take you to the heart of Marrakesh.
Country: Lebanon & Morocco
Meal itinerary: Start with a tour of all their best apps, via a Mezza Platter which comes with muhammara, hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, olives, and harissa labneh. For your entree, we recommend the Baboush Kafta with beef and lamb. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t skip the baklava!
West Village | Directions
Cafe Madrid
Take a trip to Spain via this colorful spot, modeled after the little cafes found on the streets of Madrid. It’s a great spot for groups, as the menu focuses on tapas, aka Spanish-style shareables.
Country: Spain
Meal itinerary: With over 35 tapas to explore, from regions all over Spain, we recommend trying as much as possible! Favorites from the menu include the tortilla española, patatas bravas, and Paella de la casa. To sip, split a pitcher of Sangria 2.0, the ultimate sangria made with red wine, white wine, cava, and Tío Pepe sherry.
Knox | Directions
Coconut Paradise
Find this pink and blue paradise inside Asian supermarket 99 Ranch, and instantly transport to Southeast Asia! This girly and adorable spot specializes in all things coconut, with authentic flavors and beautiful presentation.
Country: Korea
Meal itinerary: Adventure with desserts like never before, like the Pandan Leaf Coconut Jelly Jar, Ube Heaven Coconut, and even an adorable Jiggly Bunny that recently went viral. To drink, sip on the Heaven’s Feel!
Carrollton | Directions
Dansungsa
Venture just outside of the city to Koreatown, home to dozens of Korean businesses, including DanSungSa! This lively spot is modeled after a “pocha” or a Korean-tented street pub, with wood-paneled booths, lanterns, and scribbled writing on the walls. Of course, you’ll hear K-Pop music blasting in the background!
Country: Korea
Meal itinerary: Sample traditional Korean street food like Chapaguri, Bulgogi with rice, Tuckpocky, Kimchi fried rice, and an array of fried chicken dishes. Wash it all down with Soju, in flavors like lychee or mango!
Northwest Dallas | Directions
Dolce Riviera
Venture to the Italian Rivera and dine in a lush garden! Dolce Rivera’s patio is the perfect place to sip a spritz, full of blue and yellow accent and a giant lemon tree looming overhead. You’ll feel like you’re on the Amalfi Coast!
Country: Italy
Meal itinerary: Wander through their sea of apps like carpaccio, arancini or burrata to start – we recommend trying a few! For your main, go for the handmade pasta dishes like Spaghetti and Meatballs (simple but so good!), or the Truffle Gnocchi. Definitely sip on a spritz too – they have one of the best in town!
Harwood District | Directions
Dubliner
Owned by a native Dubliner, this spot is a true traditional Irish pub! The warm and cozy atmosphere will have you feeling like you’ve made a trip across the pond, and don’t be surprised if there’s a soccer (or football as the Irish say) match playing on TV.
Country: Ireland
Meal itinerary: The menu here is simple but will have you feeling lucky! Start with the curry fries to munch on, followed by a Reuben or the Sheperd’s Pie. Wash it all down with a Guinness or Jameson, of course.
Greenville | Directions
Elephant East
Adventure through Southeast Asia at Elephant East, a moody and romantic space full of hand-carved wood walls, florals and plants galore, and intricate elephant details. From the music to the dim lighting, the ambiance here truly takes you far away from Dallas!
Country: Thailand
Meal itinerary: You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, so we recommend getting a taste of everything with a Pu Pu Platter, which comes with Fresh spring rolls, crispy pork spare ribs, chicken satay, bang bang shrimp, and Vietnamese nems. To drink, sip a lychee martini or Singapore Sling!
Harwood District | Directions
Fortune House
This entire space is an ode to Shanghai, from the colorful patio to the swanky bar. It feels like you could be dining in the city with bright lights and liveliness! Plus, watch your dumplings being made right inside the restaurant.
Country: China
Meal itinerary: Known as some of the best dumplings in Dallas, you’ll want to try a few – get the sampler which includes pork, crab, truffle, chicken, veggie, and pan-fried dumplings. Pair it with spicy string beans, scallion pancakes, and even a Gongfu tea tasting!
Lower Greenville | Directions
Harwood Arms
This cozy pub is a hotspot for soccer watching, live music, and cozy yet lively vibes. You’ll find lots of kitschy English decor, large booths, and a bar in the middle of the space that keeps the pub vibes going.
Country: England
Meal itinerary: We highly recommend checking out their Sunday Roast if you can – it’s a British classic! Any other day, the Scotch Egg, Reuben Fries, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, and the Warm Pretzels with beer cheese are great to munch on. Wash it all down with a beer cocktail like the Snakebite, aka Magners + Guinness.
Harwood District | Directions
Henk's European Deli & Black Forest Bakery
Prost to this cafe and market, a Dallas staple for 60 years, that will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled upon a local restaurant in Germany! The kitschy decor and cozy vibes will have you feeling right at home.
Country: Germany
Meal itinerary: Here, you actually want to start with dessert to make sure you have room for their famous Black Forest Cake! For your meal, go for classic dishes like weiner schnitzel or any of the bratwurst options. Pair it all with speatzle, sauerkraut, or even herring if you’re feeling adventurous!
Northeast Dallas | Directions
Kalachandji's
This peaceful oasis is tucked away in East Dallas, serving as both a beautiful temple and a delicious restaurant. It may feel like you’re trespassing as you walk through the beautiful temple gardens, but don’t worry – you’re in the right place, and the experience is just about as authentic as it gets.
Country: India
Meal itinerary: The restaurant is buffet-style, and all vegetarian, so we recommend trying as much as you have room in your stomach for! The array of dishes is truly an adventure, from classics like dal and pappadam to dishes you may have never heard of.
East Dallas | Directions
Kyuramen
This decorated paradise is full of geometric light wood shapes, a wood tree adorned with ornaments filled with customer messages, and Japanese tapestries, murals, and lanterns! Dine in a honeycomb booth for one of the most unique experiences in DFW.
Country: Japan
Meal itinerary: You must try their signature Omurice, a Japanese fusion dish that marries a Western omelet that sits onto a bed of rice, which is then cut open and topped with a demi-glace. To us, it tasted almost like a curry meets fried rice dish!
Frisco | Directions
Mercat Bistro
If you want an inexpensive way to take a trip to Paris, look no further than stepping inside Harwood’s Mercat Bistro! This charming restaurant offers a quintessential homey and quaint French atmosphere.
Country: France
Meal itinerary: Whether you’re going for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, we recommend getting all the classics: croissants, croque monsieur, escargot, steak frites, or foie gras to name a few.
Harwood District | Directions
La Parisienne French Bistro
Step away from The Star and into the heart of Paris! This chic bistro has nods to Paris throughout, Tiffany Blue accents, chandeliers, and lush greenery.
Country: France
Meal itinerary: Start your visite with a spread of bread and cheese, as the French do! Then, indulge in rich dishes like Vegetarian Bourguignon, Steak Frites, Banana Foster Crepes, and more. To sip, try the Paris Romance cocktail which comes in a beautiful bird glass!
Frisco | Directions
Las Almas Rotas
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Mexico through agave spirits! This mezcaleria is as authentic as it gets, with colorful flags lining the patio and bottles lining the walls.
Country: Mexico
Meal itinerary: With hundreds of spirits on the menu, you’ll want to order drinks first so you can try a few. Try a mezcal flight, mezcalita, moradanada, or espresso mezcaltini. To eat, get the equites, al pastor tacos, and any of their tortas.
Fair Park | Directions
Ruins
Dance the night away in Oaxaca at this restaurant meets club! With dim lighting, traditional artwork, and a rustic feel, Ruins is the perfect spot for a fun night out. Check out the Limbo Room, dedicated to live music!
Country: Mexico
Meal itinerary: Start your night with Nopalitos Fritos, aka fried cactus with mole sauce. For your main, the al pastor tacos are a no brainer.
Deep Ellum | Directions
Sevan G&G
For an affordable escape, head to this hidden gem that feels like you're dining in someone's Mediterranean villa! This quaint restaurant is decked out in framed paintings, blue tablecloths, and warm lighting, making it the perfect low-key escape from the hustle and bustle of the city!
Country: Greece & Lebanon
Meal itinerary: Before you go, pack your own bottle of wine -- this spot is BYOB! Start with a mazza plate that comes with all the best apps like hummus, eggplant dip, dolmas, tabouli, and pita. For your main, get the gyros plate with spiced lamb and beef, or the giant falafel wrap! For something sweet, their homemade baklava tastes exactly like the ones you'd find overseas.
Lower Greenville | Directions
Si Tapas
Step into Si Tapas and be transported straight to Spain! This charming white little cottage has a welcoming Old World ambiance, from the vintage soccer memorabilia to the rows and rows of wine bottles.
Country: Spain
Meal itinerary: Shareables are the name of the game here, so order a few for the table like the gambas al ajillo, aceitunas de la casa (marinated olives) crispy patatas bravas (so good!) and the tortilla española. Split a pitcher of sangria, too!
State Thomas | Directions
Sketches of Spain
Enjoy a night out at a modern tapas joint that feels like you’re at a hip spot in Barcelona! Sketches of Spain features a bright interior filled with plants, wood flooring, and warm lighting.
Country: Spain
Meal itinerary: Kick things off with a few croquettes filled with cheese and ham to share! Then, explore the coast via their selection of seafood and fish, like fried cuttlefish, seared prawns, and seafood paella. To sip, try one of their Spanish wines!
Bishop Arts | Directions
Tatsu
Perhaps the most authentic omakase experience in Dallas, Tatsu is a high-end restaurant that’s well worth the hype. There are only ten seats available, making for an intimate way to immerse yourself in Japanese hospitality and the art of Edomae Sushi!
Country: Japan
Meal itinerary: Since Tatsu serves a rotating tasting menu, we can’t tell you what to order – but you can expect one or two appetizers, thirteen to fifteen pieces of nigiri-style sushi, a hand roll, miso soup, and a dessert. Let the chef take you on a journey!
Deep Ellum | Directions
The Island Spot
In the mood for a tropical vacay? Find a little slice of paradise at The Island Spot! This Jamaican restaurant is filled with palm trees, bright colors, reggae music, and even a mural of a beach that gives all the island vibes.
Country: Jamaica
Meal itinerary: Kick back and relax with classic eats from the islands, like jerk chicken nachos, patties, fried plantains, coconut shrimp, key lime pie, and more. Pair it all with a classic rum punch that tastes like paradise!
Bishop Arts | Directions
The Londoner
Dine and drink like kings and queens at this quintessential English spot! From soccer matches playing to whiskey barrels and even a red telephone booth, The Londoner perfectly captures the spirit of a classic British pub.
Country: England
Meal itinerary: Start with one of their draught beers from across the pond, like Fuller’s London Pride, or opt for one of their many single malt scotches. To eat, go for the classics: Haddock and Chips, Steak and Ale Pie, or the Bangers and Mash.
Multiple locations | See locations
Toulouse
This fan-favorite French spot has the perfect authentic French bistro look, from the decor to the chairs, and the menu has all the classics too. It’s set up just like a cafe you’d come across wandering Paris!
Country: France
Meal itinerary: Start your visit with escargot and oysters to share, and take a tour of French wine country via a bottle of wine. For your main, we love the steak frites, bouillabaisse, croque madame, and lobster risotto!
Knox | Directions
Queen of Sheba
Take a trip to Ethiopia through food, art, and great service! Queen of Sheba is a one-of-a-kind spot in Dallas, serving authentic Ethiopian food in an elegant space. You’ll find ornate decorations, traditional artwork, and unique architecture throughout the restaurant!
Country: Ethiopia
Meal itinerary: From traditional African meats to vegetarian and vegan options galore, you’ll want to make the most out of your visit with a combination plate! Each plate comes with an array of vegetables and dips and varies in spice level. Skip the fork and use the Injera bread to eat your meal for the full experience!
Addison | Directions
Yellow Rosa
Inspired by the beaches of Tulum and the cantinas of San Miguel de Allende, Yellow Rosa has elements from all of Mexico’s hottest destinations. The courtyard is a true urban oasis, and you’ll find fun weekly events like live mariachi bands, salsa dancing, and loteria bingo too!
Country: Mexico
Meal itinerary: Kick off the fiesta with Los 3 Amigos, a combo of guac, queso, and beans served with chips. From there, move on to their street tacos in varieties like asada, trompo, or birria, with equites on the side. To drink, we can’t get enough of the Smoked Watermelon Mezcalina!
Deep Ellum | Directions