It’s easy to feel overwhelmed once you start reading up on the Metroplex’s dining industry. Between supporting long-time community favorites and testing out new restaurants, locals can often feel spread thin in their patronage. Explore some oldies but goodies and fresh concepts all at once thanks to Addison’s Village on the Parkway. The Far North Dallas district is full of both — restaurants that have been around for years and exciting additions shaking up the scene. So hop on I-635, and head over to these dining destinations for a memorable date night.
Mercy Wine Bar first opened in 2003 as a tribute to the French and Italian wine experience. Owners Glen Agritelley and Vincent Havard reveled in stopping into quaint bistros and bars to sip on a glass of vino or enjoy a quick bite while traveling through Europe, so they brought that energy to Addison. The wine-driven restaurant offers more than 100 varietals by the glass as well as flights for those who want to enjoy their own personal tastings. Mercy Wine Bar’s staff will also guide interested customers through a wine pairing to ensure everyone enjoys the right appetizers and food with their selections. Plus, with mood lighting and live music, this homey bistro acts as an ideal starting point for any night out.
Another European-inspired eatery can be found just down the street. Kenny’s Italian Kitchen provides a cozy yet familiar environment for those who want to dive into rich comfort foods. After taking a seat next to their traditional red-checkered tablecloths and ordering either a crisp martini or bold glass of red wine, ease into your meal with the bruschetta, served with tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh basil and roasted garlic, to get a feel for Kenny’s flavors and portions. While the massive bone-in veal parmigiana and shrimp scampi stand up to expectations, the housemade lasagna is the real winner. The classic pasta dish, available gluten-free with 24 hours’ notice, gives diners what they crave from an Italian spread: wholesome, warm and well-known flavors.
Todd Ramsey
Kick your night into high gear by making your way to Sidecar Social, a 20,000-square-foot lounge with the tagline: Go. All. Out. The massive restaurant and bar, which opened last month, features a patio, private karaoke, live music and games like cornhole, ping pong, indoor bocce ball and shuffleboard. For those hungry for more, Sidecar’s craft kitchen and cocktail list have got you covered. With signature drinks on tap, like the Elderflower Paloma and Italian 76, guests can try out new flavors with every sip. And for those looking for one more late-night snack, Sidecar offers half-priced flatbreads from 10 p.m. to close. A night of great wine, Italian bites and games sounds like quite the date to us.