An Unforgettable Culinary Journey: A Comprehensive Review of The Woolworth Dallas
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Dallas, The Woolworth has long occupied a coveted spot on my list of must-try restaurants. Known for its sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere and an innovative menu, this establishment promised an exceptional dining experience. After two memorable visits, I can confidently say that The Woolworth not only met but beautifully exceeded every expectation, cementing its place as a true culinary gem in the city’s dynamic food scene.
First Impressions and Patio Perfection
Our inaugural visit to The Woolworth unfolded on a bustling Saturday night, a perfect prelude to a dance performance we planned to attend at the Dallas City Performance Hall. In true spontaneous fashion, we arrived without reservations – a gamble in a city like Dallas, especially on a weekend. Yet, fortune smiled upon us. Arriving early in the evening, we were delighted to find a cozy table for two available on their charming patio. While the evening air carried a crisp chill, The Woolworth’s thoughtfully designed patio, complete with robust heaters and an inviting enclosure, transformed it into a warm and remarkably pleasant dining space. It felt like a secluded oasis amidst the urban hum, offering a relaxed yet refined setting perfect for kicking off our evening.
A Symphony of Starters and Sips
To begin our culinary exploration, we opted for a refreshing pair of mojitos, perfectly crafted to strike that elusive balance of sweetness without being cloying. They were crisp, invigorating, and precisely to my liking, setting a high bar for the evening’s offerings. Alongside our drinks, we chose two appetizers to share, each a testament to the kitchen’s flair: the calamari fries and the ahi tuna wontons.
The ahi tuna wontons were nothing short of a revelation. Each delicate, one-bite morsel delivered an explosion of fresh, vibrant flavors, perfectly balanced and utterly addictive. Then came the calamari fries – a delightful departure from traditional rings. These were tender, generously thick strips of calamari, fried to a perfect golden crispness. They arrived with a duo of dipping sauces that truly elevated the dish: a classic house-made marinara and a sweet & spicy chili sauce. While I typically gravitate towards marinara for calamari, this chili sauce was in a league of its own. Its divine blend of sweetness and a gentle kick of spice was so captivating that I found myself abandoning my usual preference. It was so incredibly good that I’ve already vowed to request two, or even three, servings of it on my next visit. Don’t misunderstand; the marinara was indeed delicious, but it simply couldn’t compete with the sheer brilliance of that chili dipping sauce. If The Woolworth ever decided to bottle it and sell it, I would be among the first in line to take a jar (or several) home.
Main Course Marvels: Grouper and the Best Side Salad
Following our impressive appetizers, we moved onto side salads and the evening’s special entree: a magnificent grouper, also intended for sharing. The Woolworth’s side salad is not just any side salad; it genuinely stands out as one of the finest I have ever encountered. Unfortunately, my attempts to capture its simple elegance in photographs didn’t quite do it justice. However, this photographic misstep simply provides a perfect excuse to return – to try more enticing menu items like their rumored sliders, to once again indulge in that incredible chili sauce, to re-order that stellar side salad, and of course, to explore another one of their enticing entrees. The sea scallops, which I frequently saw being served and looked utterly tempting, along with a visually striking pink smoking cocktail, were certainly vying for my attention for a future visit.
But back to the grouper. The “Fresh Catch” of the night was impeccably prepared. The exterior boasted a delicate, slightly crisp sear, yielding to a perfectly flaky, moist, and wonderfully light interior. Each bite was infused with a depth of flavor that spoke volumes of its freshness and expert preparation. Accompanying this exquisite fish was an artful medley of seasonal vegetables: tender braised Brussels sprouts, perfectly cooked zucchini, earthy wild mushrooms, and sweet pearl onions. Each component contributed harmoniously to the dish’s overall profile. And the jus, the savory broth in which this masterpiece bathed? It was nothing short of extraordinary. I was, admittedly, moments away from shamelessly picking up my plate and savoring every last drop of the remaining broth, much to my date’s good-humored protest about potential embarrassment. It truly felt like a crime to let such a rich, flavorful elixir go to waste.
A Small Suggestion for Perfection
This brings me to my singular, minor suggestion for improvement: a small basket of artisanal bread. A crusty, warm slice of bread would have been the ultimate companion, perfect for soaking up every precious drop of that incredible, flavorful broth. It’s a small detail, but one that would undoubtedly elevate an already exceptional dining experience to absolute perfection.
One of the aspects I particularly cherish about The Woolworth’s menu is its inherent suitability for sharing. Whether it’s appetizers or entrees, the portion sizes and thoughtful presentation make it ideal for couples or groups looking to sample a variety of dishes. The restaurant exudes a uniquely cozy yet cool ambiance, a delicate balance that makes it both delicious and genuinely fun. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of dining here, I wholeheartedly urge you to make a reservation and experience it for yourself. And speaking of reservations, while we serendipitously lucked out on our first visit, I wouldn’t recommend taking that chance. For an assured table, especially on a weekend, making a reservation is definitely the prudent choice.
A Delightful Return: Sharing More Culinary Discoveries with Friends
My enthusiasm for The Woolworth was such that a second visit was inevitable, this time accompanied by friends who were visiting from Austin. Prior to attending an Alvin Ailey performance, we secured reservations – a lesson learned from my previous stroke of luck – and eagerly returned to explore more of the menu’s enticing offerings.
During my first visit, the sea scallops had caught my eye, and this time, they were my chosen entree (one of my friends also opted for them). This exquisite dish features perfectly seared scallops, boasting a delicate salt and pepper crust, resting upon a creamy sweet potato puree. It’s further enhanced by tender Brussels sprouts, savory pancetta, wild mushrooms, sweet English peas, and a rich Marsala jus. Scallops, in my experience, can be either transcendent or terribly disappointing, but The Woolworth’s rendition was firmly in the transcendent category. The scallops themselves were perfectly cooked – tender, sweet, and caramelized on the outside. The medley of accompanying flavors, from the earthy mushrooms to the salty pancetta and the sweetness of the puree, created a perfectly balanced and harmonious profile. If I were forced to choose between the grouper from my first visit and these scallops, it would be an incredibly difficult decision. Perhaps, if bread were available, I might lean towards the grouper to enjoy that incredible broth, and then strategically convince a dining companion to order the scallops so I could, in effect, enjoy the best of both worlds (a tactic I am admittedly not above).
Another friend, seeking the comforting embrace of a classic, ordered the Pork Chop 101, a hearty and inviting dish. As the plate arrived, the aroma was rich and satisfying. He thoroughly enjoyed every succulent bite, a testament to its well-executed preparation and comforting flavors.
Our final dining companion opted for the Southern Fried Chicken, a dish that instantly evoked images of classic comfort food done right. It features a perfectly buttermilk-fried chicken breast, draped in a rich red-eye gravy, served alongside creamy smoked gouda jalapeño polenta. A side of braised spinach with crispy bacon and sweet onion completed this appealing plate. My friend expressed genuine regret that my cow’s milk allergy prevented me from tasting it, as he raved about its deliciousness. I had to take his word for it, but his enthusiasm alone was a strong endorsement.
The Allure of “Smoke and Spice” and Other Libations
Remember that intriguing pink smoking cocktail I had spotted during my first visit and resolved to try upon my return? It’s called “Smoke and Spice,” and it proved to be every bit as captivating as it looked. Beyond the visual spectacle of dry ice creating a dramatic “smoking” effect, the cocktail itself is a masterful blend of flavors. It combines tequila with the bright zest of lime, an intriguing jalapeño-cumin simple syrup, and is finished with a unique cayenne-sugar rim that adds an unexpected spicy-sweet kick to every sip. I absolutely adored it – a truly unique and memorable drink. One of my friends, also intrigued, ordered one but found it a bit too adventurous for his palate. Naturally, I was more than happy to “help him out” by ensuring his cocktail didn’t go to waste. It was too delicious to let slide!
The Woolworth: A Downtown Dallas Dining Destination
Beyond the exquisite food and innovative cocktails, The Woolworth offers an ambiance that truly elevates the dining experience. Its location at 1520 Elm St. in Downtown Dallas makes it easily accessible, a perfect spot for pre-show dinners, celebratory evenings, or simply a sophisticated night out. The interior is designed with a thoughtful eye for comfort and style – it’s both cozy enough for intimate conversations and chic enough to feel like a special occasion. The attentive yet unobtrusive service further enhances the experience, ensuring every need is met without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The Woolworth truly is a standout in the bustling Dallas culinary landscape. Its commitment to fresh ingredients, imaginative culinary execution, and a welcoming atmosphere creates an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re seeking a romantic date night, a lively gathering with friends, or simply a memorable meal, this restaurant delivers on all fronts.
Location: 1520 Elm St. in Downtown Dallas
Website: www.thewoolworthdallas.com