Beautiful And Botanical

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Bold and beautiful vibes set the stage for East Dallas’ Dahlia Bar & Bistro. The chic eatery, which opened late last year, delights guests with notes of whimsy thanks to its poppy interior, lavish garden space and delicious flavors. Owned and operated by twin brothers Mark and Chris Beardon, Dahlia stands out thanks to its feminine finesse. 

“The concept was created to fill a gap in the Dallas market,” says Chris. “We wanted to fulfill a casual neighborhood restaurant/bar that could fit in East Dallas and also a concept that would attract Dallas socialites wanting quality food and beverage in a casual but upscale atmosphere.” 

Mark says the approachable yet vibrant vibe is reflected in its name, which honors the flower. 

“The dahlia symbolizes elegance, inner strength, change, creativity and dignity,” says Mark. “We strive to ensure every guest that walks through that door feels like Dahlia could be their new regular destination for delicious food and drinks.”

Floral fun doesn’t stop with the name on the door. After guests walk in and see the stunning, artful installations of florals, plants and greenery, they will feel lifted up by the space. 

“The foundation of the concept itself was the focus of the floral courtyard patio area to act as a plush botanical cocktail garden,” says Chris. “We focused our attention on the floral elements and decided that an Italian and Southern European-style cuisine fit our model that people would recognize and enjoy.” 

Dahlia’s variety of classic cocktails served up with a twist ensures its bar program delivers, and its 16 house syrups allow signature offerings to shine. You don’t have to be blonde to enjoy the Bend and Snap, a Ford’s Gin-based drink finished with lemon, lemongrass reduction, herbal honey bitters and julienned sugar snap peas. Bubble enthusiasts will get a kick out of the Brazillian 75, Leblon Cachaca (the key ingredient in caipirinha) mixed with butterfly pea reduction, lemon, grapefruit bitters, sparkling wine and edible flowers. 

The fun continues into the food menu, which combines traditional and contemporary takes on Italian, Spanish and Mediterranean flavors. Start out with a few shareables, like the wagyu meatballs that come out smothered in rich vodka sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. 

See all those influences come together with its charcuterie board, a spread of Spanish manchego, havarti dill, fig jam, seasonal berries and two rotating charcuterie cuts. 

Robust flavors can be found in its short rib sliders — tender brisket served with caramelized onions and horseradish aioli on a brioche bun. But for lighter fare that will leave you satisfied, order the steamed mussels, available two ways: either French or Italian style. And you won’t be able to stop eating the whipped feta dip, accented with local honey, rosemary and chopped walnuts and served with crostini, until it’s gone. 

After munching on a few appetizers, enjoy the best from the land and sea by splitting a few entrees amongst the table. The lamb kabobs, served with bell peppers, onion, zucchini, jalapeno mint jelly and couscous, provide heft, while the seared bass, topped with a beurre blanc sauce, proves subtle flavors are delicious. 

Its pastas also provide both familiar and unexpected recipes. You can’t go wrong with a classic, like the cacio e pepe or seafood pasta. But to enjoy a fun twist of two favorites, try the chicken marsala, sauteed chicken scallopini with angel hair pasta and marsala mushroom sauce. Its balance of flavors will hook you after the first bite. 

Dahlia’s attention to detail and elegant plating can also be found on its desserts list. Whether you enjoy one of its rotating house-made desserts or its beloved espresso creme brulee, finished with a touch of espresso and berries, there’s a sweet just waiting to round out your night.