Since Dallas is the food mecca of Texas, the dreaded question for so many is: “Where do you want to eat tonight?” Date night in our city should only mean three things: fabulous food, delicious drinks and even better company. Here’s the best casual spots around, so you can skip the hassle of blindly searching OpenTable.

 

Louie’s: A cross between a dive bar and an Italian restaurant, Louie’s is perfect to cure your craving for pizza and beer. There’s even gluten-free crust options. If you aren’t in the mood for beer, be sure to ask for the classic martinis displayed on their logo. Casual is key; there is no need to dress up. Louie’s is located at 1839 N. Henderson Ave. Louie’s is open Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 5:30-10 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, Louie’s is open from 5:30-11 p.m. Don’t forget it’s closed on Monday.

 

Honor Bar: Although this restaurant’s attire is ‘jeans and a cute top,’ there is a dress code. The local spot suggest polos for men and does not allow athletic or gym clothes. Known for its signature drinks and extensive wine list, Honor Bar has a large outdoor patio underneath an old oak tree to keep you cool. Order fun appetizers like housemade guacamole and burrata on toast to enjoy time with your S.O. Located in Highland Park Village, Honor Bar is open Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

 

Sixty Vines:  This new farm-to-table Dallas restaurant is a must visit for your next date night. Inspired by the California wine country, the cozy wine bar is sure to give you a true wine garden experience, with 40 varieties on tap. Order a flight so that you can try a few different wines the first time you go. Sixty Vines also offers shared plates, plenty of cheese and meat boards, as well as pizzas and more. It’s located in Uptown at 500 Crescent Court, suite 160. Its hours are Sunday 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to midnight and Saturday 10 a.m.-midnight.

 

Jalisco Norte: New to the Turtle Creek scene, Jalisco Norte serves modern Mexican plates with traditional flavors. Its casual, sophisticated vibe makes this hot spot the best place to have a first date. Go for $6 margaritas at happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-6 p.m. Pro tip: Try something new, even if you aren’t an adventurous eater. Jalisco Norte is located at 3858 Oak Lawn Ave., suite 470 and is open for lunch Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. For dinner, stop by Sunday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. or Friday-Saturday from 5-11 p.m. Brunch hours are Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

 

Gemma: Thanks to Gemma, a little bit of the California coast is here in Dallas. The restaurant serves classic American bites with a twist, like spicy onion rings with chile crème fraiche. This hip restaurant is only open six days per week, but it does offer a perk.  At about 10 p.m., the chef turns off the oven and serves up a late-night menu with all of the classics — think Korean short ribs and French fries — that is served until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Gemma is located at 2323 N. Henderson Ave., suite 109. It is open Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday 5 p.m.-midnight and open Friday-Saturday 5 p.m.-1 a.m.