Tag Archives: oak cliff

Belmont Hotel Reminiscent of “Mad Men” Days

Hotel Belmont can be summed up in one word: retro. This hip, authentic boutique hotel overlooks downtown Dallas on the edge of Oak Cliff, which gives it spectacular views that feels like this place is set far apart from the crowd. Picture 14A completely re-done motor lodge circa 194o’s, it’s modern and fresh without trying too hard or coming off too posh.  Rooms are spread out between four buildings that include garden rooms, two-story lofts and bungalows.

You might feel as if you stepped into an episode of “Mad Men” when you drive up, but the cuddly bathrobes, Kiehl’s bath products, and outdoor heated pool will remind you that it’s modern day.  The brightly colored BarBelmont and Smoke restaurant will beckon you out of your cozy room, and you can’t beat same-day laundry service and dry cleaning that is available to the stressed out traveler.

A few must-see areas are the views at sunset from the outdoor terrace, the relaxing spa-like pool and the people watching at BarBelmont.  The entire property is aesthetically conscious and retro, and the Belmont Hotel does it better than anyone else.

The Bishop Arts District combines an indie flair with a cultural spirit

The Bishop Arts District is located in Oak Cliff, the neighborhood south of town trying to overcome its historically bad rep for being a “bad part of town.” Luckily, a little bit of gentrification has gone a long way without sucking the character out of Oak Cliff and the Bishop Arts District serves as the thriving central cohesion for this part of town. The Bishop Arts District is hands down the best area to find indie boutiques with one of a kind, hand made garments and the like. Picture a brick and mortar version of Etsy. A good collection of small, local restaurants add to this area’s charm as well as the Kessler Theater (a music venue) and the Texas Theater (an old movie theater playing flicks once again) make the Bishop Arts District one heck of a shopping destination.

Find Your Spot in Bishop Arts District

Picture 18A stone’s throw from downtown Dallas is an eclectic neighborhood that will make you feel as if you have stepped into a new wonderland.  The Bishop Arts District is a town square of sorts that combines art galleries, boutiques, fine dining and casual bistros, as well as special events like wine walks and gathering for cyclists.

Set up with free parking, tree-lined sidewalks and a myriad of windows to shop from, Bishop Arts draws the young, the old, and the fabulously funky.  Enjoy drinks at the quaint bar inside Eno’s Pizza, a famous Frito Pie at Tillman’s Roadhouse, and a hard-to-find soda pop from your childhood at the Soda Gallery.  Unique t-shirts and trendy styles abound at Epiphany, all natural pet foods for your furry friend are sold at the Green Pet, and when your favorite first edition is in need, take it to The Book Doctor; they specialize in repairing books.

With this incredible mix of things to do and see, it’s no wonder that Bishop Arts is one of the fastest growing gems in Dallas.  Take an afternoon or evening to explore and experience, and you just might find that you have a new favorite hang out.

Tillman’s Roadhouse is the Perfect Pit Stop

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Picture 19It may be off the beaten path, but Tillman’s Roadhouse is one of many great stops in the Bishop Arts district of Oak Cliff.

Self-proclaimed as a “California twist on Texas roadhouse,” Tillman’s offers eclectic cuisine like Venison Frito Pie and Trio of Fries: parmesan, black pepper, kennebec fries, chili dusted purple peruvian fries and smoked, salt scented sweet potato fries with housemade catsup and horseradish pickle mayo. Sound good? Save room for dessert- you won’t believe the tableside s’mores that includes delicious orange, maple, and coffee marshmallows, cinnamon grahams and dark chocolate bark. Yum.

Wooden taxidermy heads and crystal chandeliers are some of the whimsical decor that adds an element of rustic romance. Situated between unique boutiques and galleries, Tillman’s offers a varied upscale grill menu that will have you adding Bishop Arts in your rotation of favorite spots to fill up.