Restaurant Guide to Dallas' Bishop Arts District

In a south Dallas neighborhood, just a few minutes from downtown, is an enclave of shops and restaurants known as the Bishop Arts District. Made up of several blocks of 1920's storefronts, the area has enjoyed a rebirth after decades of neglect. Located just south of Methodist Hospital, the District features a number of city's better restaurants. For restaurant-goers used to traveling to the suburbs for the best dining spots, the District has become a popular destination just minutes from downtown.

The Bishop Arts District can be hard to find for those unfamiliar with the area. From downtown Dallas, take Interstate 30 west, exit at Sylvan and turn left (south). Turn left (east) on Davis and travel a mile to Bishop St. From Ft. Worth/Arlington, take I-30 east, exit at Beckley and turn right, heading south. Turn right on Davis and travel three blocks to Bishop St.

Finding good parking is usually an issue in the District, as the storefronts offer mostly curbside parking. There is a large parking lot on the east side of the District, at Seventh and Madison, and patrons can also park at a grocery store across the street at Davis and Bishop.

The Bishop Arts District's restaurants offer a variety of styles to meet any taste. Tillman's Corner, founded by Chef Ricky Tillman, offers a variety of American favorites, from burgers to fish to pasta platters, all at affordable prices. With a fun, funky atmosphere, Tillman's is a favorite of locals, and is family-friendly. The food is great, the bread is awesome, and don't forget to try to peach tea. 324 West Seventh St., (214) 942-0988.

To have some of the best pizza in Dallas, try Vitto. With a wide variety of toppings, pizza is available by the slice or whole pies up to a giant 20 inches. The garlic ball appetizers are strong but tasty, and the dishes include all of the traditional Italian staples. Salads can be a meal unto themselves. 316 West Seventh St., (214) 946-1212.

Hattie's may be one of the newer restaurants in the District, but it quickly became one of the most popular, with an upscale bistro atmosphere and new twists on old American favorites. A favorite spot for couples and business dinners, it can be especially busy on weekends. 418 North Bishop, (214) 942-7400.

Veracruz Cafe may have the smallest dining area but it certainly has the biggest reputation. With great spins on traditional Mexican favorites, as well as some superb seafood and chicken dishes, Veracruz has become a favorite for those looking for exceptional meals at moderate prices. You'll find authentic old Mexico tradition in the preparation and flavors, decidedly not the bland Tex-Mex so many chain restaurants get by with. Don't let that scare you: Mexican food has never been so tasty. Because of the restaurant's lack of seating, calling ahead for a suggested time to come in may be wise. 408 N. Bishop, Ste. 107, (214) 948-4746.

On the corner of Davis and Bishop sits Grill 400, another casual restaurant with an upscale menu. A chic atmosphere greets you, and dinner offerings include steaks (nothing over $20), seafood, chicken, pasta, and salads. Great service, and you'll find just about every dish satisfying. Curbside "to-go" service, wi-fi internet access, and a private party room are available. 400 West Davis, (214) 941-2727. .

Some of the best Thai south of downtown can be found at Chan Thai, on the east side of the District facing the large Seventh St. parking lot. An unassuming storefront hides a colorful décor inside, and friendly staff can guide you through the menu full of tasty dishes, which include the standard noodle and curry based entrees, most under $10. Don't miss the Imperial Rolls. 312 West Seventh St., (214) 948-9956.

Sometimes overlooked among some of the District's larger restaurants is a little place named El Jordan Restaurant, which features some great Mexican food. For breakfast, El Jordan features authentic Mexican dishes like migas (fried corn tortillas and scrambled eggs) along with American favorites like pancakes. Lunch features a host of Tex-Mex staples, so don't pass up the burritos. You'll need a fork for the big ones. Prices are very low, the best in the area. The casual, friendly dining area is small, but you won't mind a bit. Enjoy the chips and tangy salsa, and come back to try the rest of the menu. Open for breakfast and lunch only. 416 N. Bishop, (214) 941-4451.

Cosmo Rouge is a European-styled cocktail lounge and restaurant featuring a colorfully lit atmosphere perfect for setting a party mood. Young professionals will appreciate the highly stylized setting, whether dining or enjoying drinks in the lounge. The food doesn't disappoint, and dinner can range between $20 to $40 a person. Open late on weekends, it is quickly becoming "The Place To Be" in the area. 407 N. Bishop St., (214) 942-0202.

Other restaurants in the District include Hunky's Hamburgers, featuring gourmet burgers, at 321 N. Bishop St., (214) 941-3322 . The Nodding Dog Coffee Company is the District's place to find a quiet spot to read the paper, meet friends, or surf the intenet. Nodding Dog offers sandwiches and simple sides in a laid back, artist's atmosphere. Located at 500 N. Bishop St., (214) 941-1166. Tlaque, at 334 West Davis (214) 941-8226, specializes in Mexican-style seafood, along with gourmet takes on the usual tacos and burritos. Excellent food and good prices, the restaurant specializes in takeout, but also has a small seating area.

With all the choices available, anyone looking for a quick lunch, a special dinner, or a night on the town will find something to suit their needs. The crowd in the Bishop Arts District ranges from families to artists to professionals, and they all mix in well. It makes the District a progressive experience rolled inside small town packaging.