Introduction
Dallas, a city celebrated for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, has always been a fantastic place to grab a delicious meal. But in recent times, the popularity of takeout food in Dallas has skyrocketed. Maybe it’s the desire for a comforting weeknight treat after a long day, perhaps it’s the craving for a specific cuisine without the hassle of cooking, or maybe it’s simply the urge to support local businesses. Whatever the reason, Dallas residents know a good takeout spot when they see one.
This guide is your key to navigating the city’s thriving takeout landscape. From savory Tex-Mex to mouthwatering barbecue and everything in between, we’ll uncover the best places to satisfy your takeout cravings and discover the flavors Dallas has to offer right in the comfort of your own home.
Why Takeout in Dallas is So Great
The sheer variety of cuisine available for takeout in Dallas is truly remarkable. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Tex-Mex that tingles your taste buds, slow-smoked barbecue that melts in your mouth, delicate Italian dishes that transport you to Tuscany, or the exotic spices of Asian cuisine, Dallas has a takeout option to satisfy every palate. This diversity means you can explore the world of flavors without ever leaving your neighborhood.
Convenience is another major draw of Dallas takeout. In a city that moves as quickly as Dallas does, the ability to grab a delicious, ready-to-eat meal is a lifesaver. Whether you’re a busy professional juggling work and personal commitments, a parent managing a household, or simply someone who prefers to spend less time in the kitchen, takeout offers a convenient solution. It eliminates the need for meal planning, grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning, freeing up your time for more enjoyable activities.
Beyond personal convenience, choosing takeout in Dallas is a fantastic way to support local businesses. Dallas’ restaurants are the heart of our communities, providing jobs and contributing to the city’s unique character. By ordering takeout, you’re directly supporting these restaurants, helping them thrive and continue to offer the delicious food we all love. In these uncertain times, supporting local Dallas restaurants is more important than ever.
Recent shifts have further cemented takeout’s place as a culinary staple in Dallas. With increased demand for safe and convenient dining options, many restaurants have adapted and expanded their takeout offerings, making it even easier to enjoy their delicious food at home.
The Best Takeout Restaurants in Dallas (Organized by Cuisine)
To make your takeout adventure easier, we’ve curated a list of some of the best restaurants in Dallas, organized by cuisine:
Tex-Mex and Mexican Takeout
Meso Maya Comida y Copas (Multiple Locations): Meso Maya offers sophisticated Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their enchiladas are a standout, and their margaritas are perfect for a takeout fiesta. You can easily order online for pickup or delivery. Prices are moderate.
Mi Cocina (Multiple Locations): A Dallas institution, Mi Cocina is known for its upscale Tex-Mex dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Their brisket tacos and enchiladas are popular choices for takeout. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup. Expect to pay a bit more for the quality.
E Bar Tex Mex: Located in Deep Ellum, E Bar Tex Mex, has become known for authentic Tex-Mex food. They have a full range of tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas to go.
Barbecue Takeout
Pecan Lodge (Deep Ellum): No list of Dallas takeout is complete without Pecan Lodge. This legendary barbecue joint serves up some of the best brisket, ribs, and pulled pork in the state. Their generous portions and carefully packaged takeout make it ideal for enjoying at home. They offer online ordering for convenient pickup. Prices are mid-range, reflecting the quality.
Slow Bone (Design District): Slow Bone is another top-tier barbecue spot in Dallas, known for its creative sides and expertly smoked meats. Their turkey is a particular favorite, and their mac and cheese is a must-try. They offer both pickup and delivery options.
Italian Takeout
Campisi’s Restaurant (Multiple Locations): A classic Dallas Italian restaurant, Campisi’s has been serving up delicious pizzas and pastas for generations. Their pizzas are perfect for sharing, and their spaghetti and meatballs are a comforting classic. They offer online ordering and delivery. Prices are reasonable.
Cane Rosso (Multiple Locations): Cane Rosso is known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Their pizzas travel well, and they offer a variety of creative toppings. They have online ordering and pickup options.
Asian Cuisine Takeout
Royal China (Preston Center): For authentic Chinese takeout, Royal China is the place to go. Known for their exceptional dumplings and delicious noodle dishes.
Pho Pasteur (Multiple Locations): Craving Vietnamese? Pho Pasteur is a Dallas staple for flavorful pho, banh mi sandwiches, and other Vietnamese specialties. Their pho is especially comforting, and their spring rolls are a refreshing appetizer. They offer online ordering and takeout options.
Sushi Axiom (Multiple Locations): For sushi lovers, Sushi Axiom offers a wide selection of fresh and creative rolls. Their bento boxes are a great option for a complete meal, and their sashimi is always top-notch. They provide online ordering and takeout.
Pizza Takeout
Serious Pizza (Deep Ellum): For a massive slice of New York-style pizza, Serious Pizza is the place to be. Their pizzas are enormous, and they offer a variety of toppings. Perfect for a group gathering or a satisfying solo meal. Pickup only.
Zalat Pizza (Multiple Locations): Zalat Pizza is known for its unique and creative pizza combinations. From the Elote pizza to the Pho pizza, their offerings are always inventive and delicious. Online ordering is available for pickup and delivery.
Burger Takeout
Maple & Motor (Medical District): Known for their classic and straightforward burgers, Maple & Motor focuses on quality ingredients and simple preparation. It’s a no-frills burger experience that’s always satisfying.
Hopdoddy Burger Bar (Multiple Locations): Hopdoddy offers a wide range of creative and gourmet burgers, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their burgers are always juicy and flavorful, and their fries are a must-try. They have online ordering for pickup and delivery.
Fine Dining Takeout
Al Biernat’s (Oak Lawn): If you’re looking for a fine dining experience at home, Al Biernat’s offers a curated takeout menu featuring their signature steaks, seafood, and sides. Their food is carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. While pricy, it is perfect for a special occasion at home.
Vegan and Vegetarian Takeout
Spiral Diner & Bakery (Multiple Locations): Spiral Diner offers a completely vegan menu featuring comfort food classics like burgers, sandwiches, and mac and cheese. Their desserts are also amazing. Online ordering is available for pickup.
Tips for a Great Takeout Experience in Dallas
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable takeout experience, consider these tips:
Ordering Strategically
Order in Advance: Especially during peak hours, placing your order ahead of time can save you time and ensure your food is ready when you arrive.
Check Online Menus: Restaurant menus and hours can change. Always check the restaurant’s website or app for the most up-to-date information. Many times they will note dishes that are specifically great for takeout.
Ask About Specials: Many Dallas restaurants offer takeout-specific specials or promotions. Don’t hesitate to ask about them when you place your order.
Pickup and Delivery Tips
Confirm Pickup Location: Make sure you know whether to pick up your order curbside or inside the restaurant.
Check Your Order: Before leaving the restaurant, double-check your order to ensure everything is correct and accounted for.
Consider Delivery Apps: Services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Favor can be convenient for delivery, but be aware of potential fees and delivery times.
Keeping Food Fresh
Transporting Food Properly: Use insulated bags to keep your food hot or cold during transport.
Reheating Tips: Different types of food require different reheating methods. Consult the restaurant’s recommendations or use your best judgment to ensure your food is reheated properly. For example, pizza often reheats best in a dry oven, while some dishes may do well in the microwave.
Conclusion
Dallas offers an incredible array of takeout options, catering to every taste and craving. From casual Tex-Mex to upscale fine dining, you can experience the best of Dallas’ culinary scene without ever leaving your home. So, explore the restaurants listed in this guide, support local businesses, and discover your new favorite Dallas takeout spot. Enjoy delicious food, and savor the convenience and flavors of Dallas. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, Dallas has the perfect takeout to satisfy your appetite and make life a little easier.
