When you’re looking for more than just a house—you’re looking for a lifestyle—choosing the right Dallas real estate agents makes all the difference. As long-time Dallas locals and top-producing REALTORS®, we, Brandon Hawkins and Tiffany Touchstone Hawkins of the Hawkins Real Estate Group, know this city inside and out.
From world-class dining and luxury shopping to historic neighborhoods and vibrant cultural spots, Dallas offers something for everyone. That’s why we’ve curated this guide to our favorite restaurants, shops, and places to explore in 2025. Whether you’re relocating, buying a luxury home, or just exploring, let us give you the insider’s view.
Downtown Dallas: Dining & Experiences
Downtown is the heartbeat of the city—perfect for food lovers and those who thrive on energy. Some of our top recommendations include:
• Pecan Lodge – iconic Texas BBQ.
• Monarch at the Thompson Hotel – breathtaking skyline views and refined dining.
• Dallas Farmers Market – local eats and artisan finds.
• Adolphus Hotel – from cocktails at Rodeo Bar to dinner at City Hall Bistro.
• The Hampton Social – coastal-inspired atmosphere, right downtown.
👉 Tip from Brandon Hawkins: Pair a visit to Monarch with an evening stroll through the Arts District for the perfect Dallas night out.
Uptown Dallas: Luxury Living & Chic Dining
If you’re looking at Uptown Dallas real estate, you’ll love the neighborhood’s walkability and vibrant dining scene. Some of our favorite spots include:
• Nobu at Crescent Court – upscale Japanese fusion.
• Fearing’s – a Dallas institution for fine dining.
• Dolce Riviera – perfect for date nights.
• Saint Ann – cocktails in a lush courtyard.
• Nusr-Et Steakhouse – unforgettable energy and premium steaks.
👉 Tiffany’s pick: Nothing beats an evening at Dolce Riviera before a show in the nearby Arts District.
Dallas Design District: Where Style Meets Flavor
For those considering homes near the Dallas Design District, know that it’s not just about art galleries and design showrooms—it’s also a foodie haven.
Favorites we recommend:
• Town Hearth – Brandon’s go-to steakhouse, glitzy and unforgettable.
• The Charles – modern Italian with Dallas flair.
• Carbone – NYC sophistication, Dallas energy.
• The Mexican – bold flavors in a vibrant setting.
👉 Tip: The Design District is perfect for buyers seeking loft-style living and proximity to both Uptown and Downtown.
Knox Street: Dining in the Park Cities
Located minutes from Highland Park homes for sale and University Park real estate, Knox Street is a chic hub of restaurants and boutiques.
Our recommendations include:
• Georgie – one of the best steakhouses in Dallas.
• Le Bilboquet – Tiffany’s favorite for lunch with friends.
• Mister Charles – buzzy and upscale.
• Anchor Sushi Bar – sleek sushi in an intimate setting.
Highland Park: Timeless Dallas Luxury
If you know us, you know Highland Park real estate is our specialty—and it’s also home to some of our favorite restaurants.
• Cafe Pacific – Brandon’s choice for a classic Dallas dinner.
• Honor Bar – casual yet stylish.
• Sadelle’s – Tiffany’s go-to for brunch.
• Al Biernat’s – a true Dallas dining landmark.
• Fachini – upscale Italian in Highland Park Village.
👉 Local tip: Highland Park Village offers luxury shopping, fine dining, and one of the most iconic residential communities in all of Dallas.
Best of Dallas: Shopping, Arts & Culture
Dallas isn’t just about homes—it’s about lifestyle. We always recommend our clients explore:
Luxury Shopping
• Highland Park Village
• Stanley Korshak
• Neiman Marcus – Downtown flagship
Arts & Culture
• Dallas Museum of Art
• Perot Museum of Nature & Science
• Nasher Sculpture Center
• Dallas Arboretum
Why Work with Hawkins Real Estate Group?
For over 26 years, we’ve been helping clients buy and sell luxury homes in Dallas, Highland Park, University Park, and Preston Hollow. As top Dallas real estate agents, we don’t just sell homes—we sell the Dallas lifestyle.
✨ Brandon Hawkins and Tiffany Touchstone Hawkins bring deep local expertise, market insight, and a love for the city to every client relationship.
• Visit HawkinsGroupRealEstate.com
• Follow us on Instagram @hawkinsgrouprealestate
• Call or text Brandon at 214.206.7778 or Tiffany at 972.979.0978
Final Word
Dallas is more than just a city—it’s a community of vibrant neighborhoods, luxury living, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re exploring Park Cities real estate, discovering Preston Hollow homes for sale, or finding the perfect Uptown condo, the Hawkins Real Estate Group is here to guide you.
Explore the Dallas Area Guide