If you love food, Preston Hollow North in Dallas is a slice of culinary heaven that’s quietly but confidently building a reputation among locals in the know. Nestled among tree-canopied streets and grand homes, this neighborhood draws Dallasites of every stripe—families, professionals, and devoted foodies eager for top-notch bites close to home. From refined restaurants to bustling bakeries and unexpected food trucks, here’s your definitive tour of the best food Preston Hollow North has to offer.
A Taste of Tradition: Upscale Dining Destinations
Preston Hollow North is anchored by some of Dallas’s most reliable high-end dining rooms, where white-tablecloth service meets standout fare:
- il Bracco – Preston Center (across from Northwest Hwy & Preston Rd)
- *Cuisine*: Modern Italian
- *Price*: $$$
- *Why it’s special*: Chic interiors and a thoughtful wine list set the stage for handmade pastas and perfectly executed meat dishes. The spicy gemelli and crispy chicken Milanese are local must-trys. Their patio is a prime spot for people-watching while savoring classic cocktails.
- TJ’s Seafood Market & Grill – Preston Royal Village
- *Cuisine*: Seafood
- *Price*: $$-$$$
- *Why it’s special*: A neighborhood staple since 1989, TJ’s serves the freshest oysters, Gulf shrimp tacos, and grilled sea bass. Hip enough for date night, comfortable enough for family dinners, with superb service every time.
- Royal China – Royal Lane & Preston Road
- *Cuisine*: Chinese, Dim Sum, Hand-Pulled Noodles
- *Price*: $$
- *Why it’s special*: Dallasites rave about Royal China for its legendary xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and hand-pulled noodles. Perfect for sharing, making it a go-to for group dinners and Sunday dim sum cravings.
Neighborhood Café Culture
Consider this your official invitation to linger over a latte or a flaky croissant. Preston Hollow North hides several coffee shops and bakeries that serve treats worth detouring for:
- Creamistry – Preston Royal Shopping Center
- *Cuisine*: Ice Cream/Coffee
- *Price*: $-$$
- *Why it’s special*: Made-to-order ice cream with liquid nitrogen, wildly inventive flavors, and a creamy texture kids (and grown-ups) swoon for. Their coffee drinks are underrated gems for a midday pick-me-up.
- Dolce Riviera Espresso Café – Nearby on Preston Road
- *Cuisine*: Italian Café/Bakery
- *Price*: $$
- *Why it’s special*: Pasticciotti, almond croissants, and rich Italian coffees provide a gorgeous reprieve from the everyday grind. Locals love the friendly baristas and airy, sunlit interior.
- Empire Baking Co. – Lovers Lane
- *Cuisine*: Artisan Bakery
- *Price*: $
- *Why it’s special*: A Dallas institution. Step in for sourdough, rye, cookies, and seasonal tarts that taste like home. Their classic baguettes sell out quickly—arrive early!
Food Trucks: Fast, Flavorful, and Fun
While food trucks in Preston Hollow North don’t cluster like in Downtown, a handful roll in for weekday lunch or special community events, particularly at Northaven Park or school campuses.
- Smackbird Hot Chicken
- *Cuisine*: Nashville Hot Chicken
- *Price*: $
- *Why it’s special*: The spicy fried chicken sandwiches are crave-worthy, and the slaw-topped fries are a surprising highlight. Find them at neighborhood pop-ups, especially on weekends.
- El Queso Grande
- *Cuisine*: Tex-Mex
- *Price*: $
- *Why it’s special*: Tacos al pastor and brisket nachos, all served fast but never skimping on flavor. Track them via social for rotating stops near Preston Road and Royal Lane.
Global Eats: From Sushi to Mediterranean
Preston Hollow North’s diversity shines in its global fare—served up in relaxed, friendly eateries perfect for everyday dining.
- Sushi Saké – Preston-Forest Shopping Center
- *Cuisine*: Japanese/Sushi
- *Price*: $$-$$$
- *Why it’s special*: Remarkably fresh sushi, creative roll selections, and cozy, understated decor. Favorites include the “Dragon Roll” and the chef’s choice sashimi.
- Sevan G & G Café – Walnut Hill Lane
- *Cuisine*: Mediterranean/Armenian
- *Price*: $$
- *Why it’s special*: This family-run spot does unforgettable kebabs, creamy hummus, and baklava that draws raves. Warm, hospitable, and a neighborhood secret for almost 20 years.
Hidden Gems and Local Staples
Ask longtime locals for their best-kept food secrets and you’ll hear these names come up again and again:
- Neuhaus Café & Chocolate Boutique – Preston Royal Shopping Center
- *Cuisine*: European Café, Chocolates
- *Price*: $$
- *Why it’s special*: Belgian chocolates, decadent pastries, and a charming tiled patio. Try the quiches and linger over their sipping chocolate—a rare find outside Europe.
- ChopShop Sports Garage – Royal Lane & 75
- *Cuisine*: American, Burgers, Bar Fare
- *Price*: $-$$
- *Why it’s special*: A classic sports hangout with outstanding craft beer, juicy burgers, and loaded fries. It’s a neighborly spot to cheer on the Cowboys or the Mavs with a crowd.
- DIVE Coastal Cuisine – Preston Royal Village
- *Cuisine*: Healthy American, Seafood, Vegetarian
- *Price*: $$
- *Why it’s special*: Bright, vibrant salads, grilled fish tacos, and an airy decor. Perfect for health-conscious foodies or those craving something lighter but still flavorful.
Where the Locals Cluster: Food Hubs To Try
Two main intersections pulse with culinary activity:
- Preston Road & Royal Lane: Here you’ll find both legacy restaurants and playful newcomers in strip malls full of surprises.
- Lovers Lane & Preston Road: Home to high-end markets, cafés, and bakeries, and a frequent site for food trucks and local events.
A Neighborhood Where Every Bite Tells a Story
What makes Preston Hollow North’s food scene truly special is its blend of luxury and approachability. You’ll discover unassuming family-run gems beside meticulously designed dining rooms, all with neighbors who know your order by heart. Here, every meal feels like catching up with an old friend—and the adventure is just beginning.
Whether you’re seeking a candlelit Italian feast, Sunday dim sum, after-school ice cream, or a morning pastry still warm from the oven, Preston Hollow North has a table (or food truck counter) waiting. Come hungry, and keep your eyes open—the next great neighborhood bite is always just around the corner.