Welcome to Irving, Texas, a gem 10 minutes from Dallas and just 30 minutes from Fort Worth. While Irving may not be as famous as its larger Texan neighbors, it will wow you with its offerings. From gourmet experiences to comforting bites, Irving is brimming with diverse flavors and unique dining establishments. If you’re on the hunt for the next great meal, allow me to take you through some of the best restaurants in Irving.
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Via Reál Restaurant – An Elegant Southwestern Affair
For over 30 years, Via Reál has been a staple of fine dining in Irving. It is an iconic destination for Southwestern cuisine with a touch of sophistication. My all-time favorite dish here is the Pecan-Crusted Sea Bass, served with cilantro mashed potatoes nestled in a quartered pineapple and topped with pineapple sauce. Add an unforgettable peach margarita, and you’ve got yourself a perfect pairing.
The guacamole and queso are delectable appetizers.
Pro Tip: Visit on a Sunday for their highly-regarded brunch spread.
Jam + Toast – Breakfast Elevated
If breakfast is your favorite meal of the day, head to Jam + Toast. Their breakfast and lunch menu offers everything from billowy omelets and savory Benedicts to fluffy pancakes and crepes.
My top pick? The Irving Skillet, which includes chicken apple sausage, roasted peppers, fresh mushrooms, and cheese served on top of hash browns, does not disappoint. For your side item, choose between biscuits, buttermilk pancakes, or toast, each at no additional charge.
Want something sweet? Their stack of fluffy pancakes does not disappoint.
The Ranch at Las Colinas – Texan Hospitality Done Right
Few places capture the spirit of Texas like The Ranch at Las Colinas. It’s not just a restaurant but an immersive experience, complete with live music on the Porch and locally sourced ingredients.
For starters, try the Mini Elk Tacos, Lump Crab Dip, or Cornmeal-Fried Gulf Oysters. For the main event, the Grilled Chipotle Meatloaf and Blackened Gulf Striped Bass are both excellent, but how can you pass up the hand-cut steaks cooked to perfection? The roasted garlic-stuffed filet, a house specialty, is genius!
Still hungry? Save room for the decadent Whiskey Bread Pudding dessert.
Fun Fact: The Ranch sources ingredients from farms all across Texas, from Amarillo to Houston!
Want more about Irving? This post suggests five awesome things to do and see at this boujee destination.
Hugo’s Invitados – Elevated Latin Cuisine
At Hugo’s Invitados., every dish combines Latin flair with a commitment to healthy, all-natural ingredients. Freshness is prioritized with house-squeezed juices, all-natural and gluten-free menu options, and no fried or processed items.
Hugo’s Texas Red Snapper Ceviche Verde is an explosion of flavors with pineapple sauce, tomatillo, and avocado. Pair it with their refreshing hand-crafted margaritas for a perfectly balanced meal. But while the food is off-the-hook good, the uniquely decorated mannequins and eclectic decor at Hugo’s make it a total vibe you will want to experience.
The Elote, a street corn dish elevated with creamy mayo, lime, chili powder, and cheese, is a game changer!
Kitchen 101 – For Whole Food Lovers
Kitchen 101 in the Toyota Music Factory focuses on wholesome, never-frozen dishes. One standout item is the Pimento Cheese Fritters—a gooey blend of gouda, cream cheese, and jalapeños served with bacon horseradish jam.
Appetizers don’t come much better than this tantalizing beauty.
For breakfast lovers, try Kitchen 101’s yummy Carne Asada Breakfast Tacos (or choose bacon breakfast tacos) with avocado salsa and Fresno salsa. Alternatively, patrons can choose breakfast and grit bowls or indulge in sticky buns and orange cranberry bread.
Quick bite options are also available from their well-stocked display case.
Nosh and Bottle Market – A Gourmet Experience
Whether you’re craving charcuterie or artisan wine, Nosh and Bottle has you covered. Their Charcuterie & Cheese Box is a favorite, featuring a delightful mix of cured meats, artisan cheeses, Marcona almonds, and fresh fruits.
Locals also gush about Nosh and Bottle’s coffee and candied bacon—this spot is a community favorite for all the right reasons.
Tip: It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal for canal ride adventures in Las Colinas.
Homegrown Hounds – A Treat for You and Your Pup
Even our furry friends deserve great food, and Homegrown Hounds delivers. This unique spot serves Barkuterie Boards filled with goodies like “Poochcakes.” Bonus? 100% of the proceeds go toward rescuing homeless dogs. My dog LOVED her dog-treat designer board.
Pacific Table – Coastal Dining at Its Finest
In Las Colinas, Pacific Table is a haven for upscale seafood lovers. With its renowned sushi, weekend brunch, and impressive wine offerings, Pacific Table guarantees the freshest seafood and innovative dishes.
Start your dining experience with the Grilled Artichokes, a popular Irving app. Fan favorite entrees include Trout Almandine with a hint of brown butter and vegetarian options such as the Pecan Veggie Burger.
Their Jalapeño Coleslaw is spectacular and complements any main dish—from the vegetarian Pecan Veggie Burger to the sumptuous Trout Almondine. A second Pacific Table location is in Fort Worth.
Don’t miss the weekend brunch! Try the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes for a slice of brunch heaven.
Knife Steakhouse – Italian Cuisine with a Texan Twist
Newly opened at the Ritz Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas, Knife Steakhouse blends Italian culinary traditions with Texan craftsmanship and takes fine dining to the next level. With Michelin-starred chef John Tesar at the helm, you can expect succulent ribeyes, high-end seafood, and succulent pasta, like Bolognese.
Knife Steakhouse offers an unforgettable dining experience, one that will make you think you’ve escaped to the Mother Country. It blends impeccable service and exceptional cuisine.
Insider Scoop: The ambiance alone—airy, modern, and classy—is worth the visit.
Two Mules Cantina – Tex-Mex at its Best
Located in the Texican Court Hotel, Two Mules Cantina, a Southwest-themed eatery, serves bold Tex-Mex classics like Poblano Chicken Enchiladas and breakfast Skillet Chilaquiles. Pair your meal with one of their signature margaritas and the Texas Trio (queso, salsa, guac), and you’ve got a fiesta!
Dine indoors or out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Drop By: Check out Happy hour from 4:30 – 6:30 PM for unbeatable deals.
Sanjh Restaurant & Bar for Upscale Northern Indian Fare
For a unique take on Northern Indian cuisine, Sanjh Restaurant & Bar impresses with its innovative menu and Instagrammable zero-proof cocktails. The Prawn Mango Curry is beloved by locals, as is the rich and aromatic paneer tikka.
While you may not be familiar with all the dishes on the menu, I’m pretty sure they will all be delightful.
If you’re looking for a venue for a celebration, Sanjh’s stunning furnishings and private dining options will elevate any occasion. This is one genuinely mesmerizing restaurant with the cooking chops to back up its luster.
Po’ Melvin’s Down Home Cookin’- Flavors of Louisiana
At Po’ Melvin’s, a table adorned with several tempting appetizers will captivate your senses. I recommend the Bayou Balls, mouthwatering Louisiana Spicy Fried Pies, and crispy Fried Shrimp (with a touch of sweet horseradish). And don’t forget the fun and funky cocktails!
A standout at Po’ Melvin’s is the Cajun Shrimp Fondeaux, a harmonious blend of diced Gulf shrimp, spices, and cheeses that results in an impressive comfort food dish. Not a fan of Cajun or Creole New Orleans-style foods? Try the southern-style baked ham and yams, served with two vegetables.
Monaco- Festive European Spot
Monaco is French and Italian-inspired. While it’s an upscale restaurant, it has a lively community feel. The food is fantastic. We got to try all kinds of dishes, but my favorite was the Petite Frites.
I’m a sucker for steak frites (and basically pretending I’m in France), and the steak here was perfectly cooked and had bone marrow butter on top that melted down into everything. But they have all kinds of other great dishes, too, including seafood, a burrata and prosciutto charcuterie board that I could not stop snacking on, and pillowy beignets for dessert.
This is the perfect spot in Irving if you want upscale dining with a European flair!
(This entry provided by Erin of Flying Off the Bookshelf. You can read more about her Irving adventure in this Things to Do in Irving post.)
Empa Mundo – A World of Empanadas
Craving bold, dynamic flavors? Look no further than Empa Mundo’s “World of Empanadas.” This no-frills gem offers 21 different flavors of Argentinian empanadas, with savory options like chicken “Gordon” with bleu cheese and sweet temptations like Nutella and banana. They even have breakfast options.
My favorite? The Guava and Cheese empanada is righteous, though you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the chimichurri sauce—it’s the perfect complement to any empanada.
Argentina Bakery – Pastry Perfection
Craving something sweet? Head to Argentina Bakery for authentic Argentinian pastries and mini cakes. Their Tres Leches Cake, topped with marinated fruit, is a masterpiece. Pair it with a rich espresso or frothy cappuccino, and you’re in for a treat.
You’ll be in full drool mode just from looking at the display counters. And by the way, Argentina Bakery’s highly-praised breakfast empanadas are perfect for an early start.
Honorable Mentions
Couldn’t fit them all? These eateries also deserve a spot on your Irving food tour list:
- Razoo’s Cajun Café for well seasoned Cajun favorites like shrimp and catfish.
- Thirsty Lion Gastropub for brunch or a relaxed dinner.
- Saltgrass Steak House for premium steaks and irresistible mac and cheese.
- Lupe Tortilla for lively Mexican dining and excellent margaritas.
- New York Pizza Pasta for hearty slices and vegetarian-friendly options.
Treat Your Taste Buds in Irving
Irving’s culinary scene is vibrant, diverse, and ready to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for casual bites or upscale dining, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.
Which spot will you try first?
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