The Delights of Dallas
by Jessica Phillips
CulinaryEd Columnist

January 29, 2007

Dallas' moneyed communities, cosmopolitan way of life, and commitment to fine cuisine make it one of the most sophisticated cities in which you can attend culinary school, not to mention enjoy the culinary good life.

Shop 'til You Drop in Dallas

As the home of Neiman Marcus, Highland Park Village (the first planned shopping center), and more shopping centers per capita than any US city, Dallas is indisputably one of the prime shopping destinations in the country.

But department stores and malls aren't the only great shopping in town--five million visitors a year flock to the Dallas Farmers Market, one of the largest open-air markets in the US, to purchase fresh, delicious produce daily, direct from growers. Farmers Market Friends also co-sponsors cooking classes utilizing market ingredients every Saturday with Dallas' top chefs.

Thousands of Restaurants, Thousands of Tastes

With more than 7,000 restaurants--more restaurants per capita than New York City--there's no shortage of eatery styles, prices, and ethnicities in Dallas.

Don't miss authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex in Dallas, which is home to inventions like frozen margaritas and chicken enchiladas. The New York Times points out that Dallas' "funky Mexican scene is good value," making it the perfect choice for budget-conscious culinary students.

For special occasions, splurge on dinner at the elegant French Room at the Adolphus Hotel, the #1 Hotel Restaurant in the US, according to the Zagat Survey, as well Zagat's #1 restaurant in Dallas. For the carnivores, check out one of the city's famed steak houses, like Bob's Steak & Chop House, serving wet-aged, corn-fed beef, or the spectacular $6-million, 1,000-seat III Forks.

Dallas' Best

When you attend a Dallas culinary school, you'll get a taste the best--the best shopping, the best produce, and some of the best restaurants anywhere.

Sources

About the Author
Jessica Phillips is a freelance writer and editor.