Entertainment districts are popping up all over the Metroplex with Legacy West rolling out in Plano and The Star continuing to draw locals to Frisco. But Irving may become the next big thing with Big Beat Dallas. The entertainment destination will open in the Toyota Music Factory on March 29 and provide loads of live entertainment and 24-hour dining.
The 90,000 square-foot project is the brainchild of the entertainment visionary Billy Bob Barnett – the Billy Bob to be more precise. On the grounds, you'll find two outdoor stages on the Texas Lottery Plaza with consistent programming including live concerts every Monday night. You can also wonder into the area's six dining and drinking establishments each offering an extremely diverse offering.
“One of our goals at Toyota Music Factory is to cater to people of all walks of life, day and night,” project developer Noah Lazes said.
But even though each restaurant's flavors have their own styles, the area uses one centralized kitchen led by executive chef Roberto Madrid. And as you walk from place to place, you can keep your drink with you. That's right! The Big Beat has a unique liquor license that carries throughout the entire venue, so you can sip your drink as you explore the different amenities.
For a homey feel that will make you feel like you've walked into an upscale family cabin, check out Texas Jam House. The comfortable menu includes Southern flair comforts like chicken-fried steak and barbecue. And they keep the good stuff rolling out 24-hours a day. Instead of hitting Whataburger on the way home – no judgment, we've all done it – you can stop in here after a night out or a local concert for a bite to eat.
If you want a night of vibrant music and cold tequila, Bar Manzanilla is for you. The coastal taqueria and tequila bar offers up fresh ceviche and great margaritas. Plus, every night they will host a live DJ to pump up the music and spin a set of new tunes.
For a night of blues, bourbon, barbecue and beer, stop into Highway 61 South. The restaurant gets its name from the famous route that's home to travelling rock and blues artists – think the Bluebird Café. The space has a classic, vintage feel that makes the concept feel like it was made for the area. It's hard to create roots in a new space, but the restaurant's attention to detail help build up that authentic nature – like their light fixtures made from license plates from the states found on the famous road. And with their wood-fired grill, you'll get distinct tastes from this restaurant's menu that separate it from the rest.
When you walk upstairs, you can decide whether you want to sit down for a luxury dinner or enjoy a Vegas-style dance party. For the latter, head into Martini Ranch to experience a night-out hot spot. With a huge bar, elevated dance floor, bottle service area and VIP seating, you'll feel swept away while enjoying your craft cocktail. Once you make your way to the patio, you'll find a beautiful relaxation area with artificial grass and lounge seating. These spots are also the best seats in the house to enjoy concerts from the outdoor stages.
For a premium dining experience, head into Texas C-Bar. You'll first find their Scotch and cigar lounge where you can take in the finer (Texas) things in life. If you want to sit down to enjoy your meal, head into the wine and dining room. You are in for a lavish locally sourced meal that will keep you coming back for more. Elevate your night by booking the chef's table to see your food prepared up close. It's a great choice for a celebratory night or an exclusive business dinner location. And don't forget about the drinks. Their wine selection alone is reason enough to stop in.
“At the end of the day, Big Beat Dallas is about the experience,” Jake Thompson, head of marketing of Big Beat Dallas, said. “Quality service is our goal.”
You can also stop into the daily Rancher's Market to pick up a few local finds and tasty foods you can take home. You can also find menu items like steaks, jams and salsas at the Big Beat Market located next to Bar Manzanilla.
There's always something going on with happy hour served daily and different music acts playing in the different spaces. It's hard not to feel the magic of the space once you walk into the open area.
“At Big Beat Dallas, we celebrate the strong heritage of Texas itself without Ranchers' Market, Texas Jam House and a respect for those people and ideals that made the Lone Star State what it is,” Billy Bob Barnett said.