Packed since it opened in 1998, restaurateur Al Biernat’s Oak Lawn chophouse has made a name for itself for world-class steak, exceptional seafood, and a 700-bottle wine list—one of the city’s largest. Whether at the lively bar complete with a domed ceiling and glass art-inspired painting or in the opulent dining room outfitted with rich leather booths, every meal here feels like a special occasion.

Not much has changed since Bob's Steak & Chop House opened its flagship location on Lemmon Avenue in 1993. And that’s a good thing. The menu goes all-in on massive, premium steaks like a côte de boeuf bone-in rib-eye, plus classic sides like a wedge salad and shrimp cocktail. Cozy red booths in the wood-paneled space complete the sophisticated old-school steakhouse vibe.

José specializes in beautifully plated regional recipes from the state of Jalisco. Expect ceviches that evoke Puerto Vallarta, street-style elotes inspired by Guadalajara, and endless tequila. No matter what’s on offer, Park Cities diners know it will be great: Executive chef Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman has accolades from Eater Dallas, D Magazine, and the James Beard Awards.

This iconic restaurant, which opened in 1980, is still among the best places in Dallas to celebrate a special occasion. With nods to the building’s 1920s origins, the opulent dining room is all dramatic archways, stained glass windows, and hand-carved accents. The French-leaning, New American menu is just as decadent—think fancy caviar, Comté gougères, and grilled prime ribeye with foie gras peppercorn sauce.

Celebrity chef Tiffany Derry's Farmers Branch destination has earned nods from the likes of the James Beard Foundation and The New York Times—a no-brainer to anyone who has tasted Derry’s cult-favorite cast-iron cornbread with sweet potato butter and other Southern hits. Although Roots is a dining destination for many, for residents, it’s a beloved local haunt.

This Tex-Italian stunner was the original restaurant within the Duro Hospitality group, with sibling spots Mister Charles and El Carlos Elegante going on to make it into the MICHELIN Guide. But first, The Charles set the tone with leopard-spotted banquettes, zebra-striped chairs, golden bauble light fixtures, and other epic design details. Many come here for special occasions, to feast on pillowy lemon ricotta gnudi and octopus charred on the woodfire grill.

Maximalism reigns supreme at Town Hearth, the larger-than-life steakhouse from acclaimed chef and restaurateur Nick Badovinus. Dozens of glowing chandeliers, rich leathers, and a massive custom-made fish tank set the tone for the restaurant’s surf and turf extravaganza. Come on the weekend to order The Lenox, an open fire-roasted bone-in prime rib, carved to order and made for sharing.

Open since 1999, Nick & Sam’s is still one of Dallas's top steakhouses. Encouraged by Julia Child to pursue his culinary dreams, the talented chef Samir Dhurandhar serves up a menu of rare Japanese steaks and decadent seafood-forward dishes like lobster mac and cheese, all in a lively, sophisticated dining room with live piano music. Round out the fancy meal with a glass from the 500-plus wine bottle selection.

James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef Dean Fearing’s swanky spot still turns out some of the city’s most innovative Southwestern fare. Feast on achiote-glazed antelope over mole with a braised rabbit enchilada, all while seated in a series of elegant dining rooms with Texas accents like rawhide chandeliers. The restaurant's sprawling patio is a prime weekend spot thanks to live music and a lively brunch.

Tokyo-born chef Teiichi Sakurai helped introduce Japanese food and culture to Dallas starting in the '90s before opening this celebrated soba house in 2008. The intimate omakase counter surrounds a rock garden at the center, creating a shrine-like, very-Tokyo atmosphere for wagyu, sashimi, and other traditional Japanese fare. One thing's for sure: every meal from this six-time James Beard semifinalist must end with soba.

One of Texas Monthly's best new restaurants Quarter Acre stands out for its intimate vibe and modern, globally leaning menu inspired by chef Toby Archibald’s New Zealand roots. Start with charred sourdough bread made with a starter from Archibald’s home country, then dig into standout dishes like an Aussie sea bass en papillote topped with mango salsa. With cool tones and statement lamps made from oyster shells, the dining room is cozy and bright—just as a neighborhood destination should be.

The James Beard Awards, Eater Dallas, and D Magazine have all showered praise on chef Michelle Carpenter's Cajun/Creole charmer in Oak Cliff. Carpenter cut her teeth in New Orleans, and that influence shines in everything from statement fleur-de-lys wallpaper to elegant dishes like shrimp and grits and vegan gumbo.

For a quintessentially Texan cowboy meal, head to one of Fort Worth’s most iconic restaurants. Hearty Tex-Mex plates include chicken-fried steak with cracked-pepper cream gravy and tacos stuffed with caramelized bananas and chocolate “gravy.” A pitch-perfect wine list focused on small producers makes every meal here feel like a special occasion.