Saint Ann, Uptown Dallas's New, Hip Restaurant and Bar

We hustle and bustle every day, and sometimes we forget to live and enjoy ourselves. When monotony gets in the way of life, grab your loved ones and head to Dallas' new, eclectic eatery and bar.

What was once the historic Saint Ann School on Harwood Street is now an upscale, flashy restaurant and bar dubbed Saint Ann, next to Saint Ann Court, 2501 N. Harwood Street in Dallas.

Walking up to the restaurant, I was intrigued by its sprawling and inviting patio facing downtown Dallas, decorated with intimate wooden tables and chairs amid lighted trees. Upon entering the restaurant, I noticed a mix of good-looking folks in the crowded bar area, 20-something uptowners, 30-something professionals, and even a 40 and 50-something crowd. It was a mature circle of singles and couples sipping wine, beer, and other delicious cocktails at the bar that boasted see-through glass flooring covering polished river stones and pebbles.

High-ceilings, glass room dividers, and a wooden staircase divided the bar and the actual dining area. The night I was at Saint Ann, the restaurant, decorated with leather chairs, was less active and crowded than the bar area, but a nice setting to enjoy lunch or dinner with friends.

What stirred our taste buds at Saint Ann? The hummus appetizer, made with a chick-pea puree and deep fried pita chips was not bad, but I've tasted better. You can't go wrong with the Quesadillas, with just enough cheese and shredded chicken to tackle your hunger. The Bolognese Dip served with garlic crostinis was a delicious appetizer favorite.

Basically, Saint Ann offers good food and a fun atmosphere. Dishes are average- priced. Service is fair as the wait staff somewhat struggle to meet the demands of the thirsty and hungry crowd. If you're tired of the same old in Dallas and need to break away from monotony, head to Saint Ann. At worst, you can hang with the in-crowd at the bar while drinking your favorite cocktails or taste some grub in one of Dallas' hippest hotspots.