10 Old-School Restaurants That Have Survived the Test of Time

For all the hip new places popping up around town (we’re looking at you, East Dallas), a good oleclassic holds a special place in our heart. That’s why we’re taking a break from poke bowls and frosé and returning to the Dallas days of yore. So pull on your crocodile boots and head over to one of these restaurants that are anything but new to town. 

This beautiful bistro opened its doors in 1972 and has been a Dallas dining staple ever since. It’s famous for the mushroom soup and the Sunday burger special, but everyone should try the steak frites at least once in their life.

2808 Greenville Ave.; 214-828-1981 or thegraperestaurant.com

This iconic pizza spot has been sitting pretty on Mockingbird Lane since 1950 (the restaurant itself opened in 1946). The super-thin pizzas have a super-loyal cult following, and after a few slices of the oblong-shaped pie, you’ll understand why.

5610 E. Mockingbird Lane; 214-827-0355 or campisis.us

Since 1966, people from all over Dallas have been venturing to this specialty market and deli for some of the best sandwiches in town. Locals know to head to the back, where there’s a secret dining room to eat their Italian Stallions in peace. 

4901 Bryan St.; 214-823-6180 or jimmysfoodstore.com

One of the few places in town with an enforced dress code, this has been a Park Cities power-lunch destination since 1930. After all, who doesn’t crave escargots à la bourguignonne at 11:30 a.m.?

24 Highland Park Village; 214-526-1170 or cafepacificdallas.com

If you’re craving a home-cooked meal from your mom but she hasn’t cooked in ten years, head to Celebration instead. Whipping up comfort food since 1971, the kitchen here serves fresh veggies and local grass-fed meat loaf that would put your mother’s to shame (no offense, Mom). Oh, and best of all: They’ll even bring you complimentary seconds. Mind. Blown.

4503 W. Lovers Lane; 214-351-5681 or celebrationrestaurant.com

You knew there would be at least one Mexican joint on this list. This 1977 institution remains a top place to see and be seen amongst the Park Cities who’s-who crowd. The margaritas are strong, but the cigar scent is stronger.

4912 Cole Ave.; 214-521-4211 or javiers.net

The original building has been around since the 1890s (gasp), however, it only became home to the seafood restaurant Uptowners know and love in 1976. And despite the flashy new eateriesthat pop up daily, people can’t seem to quit the red-and-white tablecloths or the iconic po’ boys.

2701 McKinney Ave.; 214-880-0111 or sdoyster.com

German-style sausages in Snider Plaza? “Why not?” asked Karl Kuby, circa 1961. This place is now not only a restaurant but also a market, grocery, bakery and catering service. We love going for breakfast and ordering Oma’s Kartoffel Pfannkuchen, which are basically the best potato pancakes ever.

6601 Snider Plaza; 214-363-2231 or kubys.com

Often dubbed the most romantic restaurant in Dallas because of its cozy corner seats, grand piano and general ambience, St. Martin’s is fancy without being pretentious and has been that way since its opening in 1977. Psst, it’s a great place to go on a first date if you actually want to be able to hear each other talk. 

3020 Greenville Ave.; 214-826-0940 or stmartinswinebistro.com