Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar Arlington Review: A Premier Destination for Louisiana Cuisine & Sports

My recent visit to the new Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar in Arlington, Texas, was an unexpected culinary delight. This location marks the company’s second venture into the vibrant Dallas/Fort Worth area, with plans for further expansion across the region. Typically, I meticulously research a restaurant before my inaugural visit, but a particularly demanding week left me with minimal prior knowledge. I arrived knowing only that it was a brand-new establishment, boasted a distinct sports theme, and promised Louisiana-inspired cuisine. This blank slate allowed for a truly unbiased and authentic first impression, revealing a dining experience far exceeding typical sports bar expectations.

Walk-On’s distinguishes itself from the moment you step inside. While it undeniably embraces its identity as a sports bar and restaurant – evidenced by an impressive array of 80 high-definition televisions strategically placed throughout the venue – it transcends the conventional stereotype. The ambiance, decor, and especially the quality of the food elevate it beyond mere bar fare. It strikes a sophisticated balance, offering the energetic atmosphere sports fans crave without sacrificing comfort, style, or culinary excellence. This blend makes Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar Arlington a compelling new addition to the Arlington Highlands dining scene, perfect for both game day and a casual family meal.

Drinks and Appetizers: A Louisiana-Inspired Culinary Journey

The initial segment of our evening was dedicated to exploring Walk-On’s extensive appetizer menu, and it quickly became clear that this was no ordinary sports bar. Each dish presented a unique blend of flavors, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. Our palates were treated to a delightful array of starters, each vying for the top spot. The boudin balls, with their perfectly seasoned, crispy exterior and savory, rice-filled interior, immediately transported us to the heart of Cajun country. The fried alligator offered a taste of the wild, tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by its dipping sauce. For a lighter yet equally impressive option, the tuna tini proved to be a refreshing surprise – delicate tuna expertly prepared, demonstrating the kitchen’s versatility. The grilled boneless wings, coated in a delectable sweet chili sauce, were also a standout, offering a sticky, tangy, and subtly spicy kick.

However, the true star of the appetizer round, hands down, was the Boom Boom Shrimp. While our other selections were undeniably excellent, the Boom Boom Shrimp effortlessly outshone them all. This dish features perfectly fried shrimp, expertly tossed in a creamy, aioli-based boom boom sauce, garnished with fresh green onions, and served atop a vibrant bed of red and green cabbage. The combination of crispy texture, spicy-sweet sauce, and refreshing crunch from the cabbage created an irresistible flavor profile that left us craving more. It’s an absolute must-try for anyone visiting Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar Arlington.

Signature Cocktails and Diverse Drink Selections

Beyond the impressive food offerings, Walk-On’s also boasts a diverse drink menu designed to complement any meal or mood. I decided to venture beyond my usual gin and tonic and try one of their signature cocktails: “The Bandita.” This concoction, while sweeter than my typical preference, was an intriguing blend of flavors. It features Camarena Reposado Tequila, Patron Citronge Mango Liqueur, Finest Call Citrus Sour, Finest Call Lime Sour, and Finest Call Simple Syrup, beautifully finished with a float of 7 Moons Red Blend and an elegant orange twist. It’s a vibrant and lively drink, perfect for those seeking something adventurous and tropical.

For beer enthusiasts, Walk-On’s provides an abundance of choices, including a wide selection of local and national brews on tap and in bottles. A particularly innovative feature that impressed us were the two booths equipped with serve-yourself beer taps. This unique amenity allows guests to pour their own beers, offering convenience and a fun, interactive element to the dining experience. It’s a thoughtful touch that further enhances the casual and enjoyable atmosphere of this Arlington Highlands establishment, truly setting it apart from other sports bars in DFW.

Entrees at Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar Arlington: Hearty and Flavorful Choices

Moving on to the main courses, we selected two distinct entrees that beautifully represented the breadth of Walk-On’s menu. Our first choice was the Sweet Chili Salmon, served with a side of perfectly cooked green beans and a generous slice of garlic bread. The salmon boasted a delicious glaze that tasted remarkably similar to the sweet chili sauce we adored on the boneless wings, creating a satisfying continuity of flavor. The salmon itself was flaky and moist, cooked to perfection. A pleasant surprise was the freshness and expert seasoning of the green beans, elevating a simple side dish into a delightful accompaniment. This dish offered a lighter yet incredibly satisfying option, proving that Walk-On’s excels beyond fried comfort food.

For a true taste of Louisiana, we also ordered Walk-On’s Crawfish Etou-Ways. This robust dish combines classic crawfish étouffée with fluffy rice, topped with a generous portion of fried crawfish, and garnished with vibrant green onions, accompanied by another piece of garlic bread. The étouffée was rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, embodying the authentic essence of Cajun cooking. The fried crawfish added a wonderful textural contrast and an extra layer of seafood goodness. It was an equally impressive dish, though the delectable sauce was so good it practically begged for an additional slice of garlic bread to ensure not a single drop went to waste. Both entrees demonstrated Walk-On’s commitment to delivering high-quality, authentic Louisiana-inspired meals, solidifying its reputation as a top restaurant in Arlington for unique flavors.

The Best Bite of the Night – An Unexpected Dessert Sensation

One rarely walks into a sports bar with high expectations for dessert, let alone anticipates it being the absolute highlight of the meal. However, Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar defies all expectations with its Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding. This dessert isn’t just good; it’s a game-changer. Imagine warm, rich bread pudding made from iconic Krispy Kreme donuts, creating an unparalleled level of moistness, sweetness, and comfort. Each spoonful is a revelation, a perfect symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. We unanimously agreed that this extraordinary bread pudding concoction alone is reason enough to make a special trip back to Walk-On’s Arlington. It truly encapsulates the surprising culinary prowess found within this DFW sports bar, proving that they pay attention to every detail, right down to the final course.

Atmosphere, Service, and Thoughtful Uniform Choices

The overall decor and atmosphere at Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar are notably a cut above most sports bars. While the sheer number of 80 televisions encourages guests to immerse themselves in various games or even a quirky cat video channel, the thoughtful design choices create a genuinely comfortable and inviting environment. Elements such as the flooring, plush seating, and tasteful wall treatments contribute to an ambiance that feels sophisticated yet relaxed. It’s a place where you can comfortably enjoy a meal with your family, host a business lunch, or gather with friends to catch a game, making it a truly versatile dining destination in the Arlington Highlands. The vibrant energy is perfectly balanced with an upscale casual feel, making it suitable for a diverse clientele.

Furthermore, an aspect that truly impressed me was Walk-On’s approach to staff uniforms. While I personally enjoy a lively sports environment, particularly during major events like the Olympics, I am generally not a fan of establishments that rely on overly revealing uniforms, often referred to as “breastaurants.” Fortunately, Walk-On’s, based on my experience, has chosen a refreshingly different direction. This decision reflects a broader, more inclusive vision for their brand.

The founder, a former basketball team walk-on at LSU in the late 90s, proudly shared that their clientele across all 27 (and growing) locations is split evenly between male and female guests. This demographic balance likely plays a significant role in their sensible uniform policy. Female staff wear smart blue shirts with black pants, while male staff wear red shirts with black pants. These choices are professional, comfortable, and respectful, creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. It’s a subtle but significant detail that underscores Walk-On’s commitment to being a truly family-friendly and universally appealing sports bar and restaurant, differentiating it from many competitors in the DFW area. I sincerely hope they maintain this thoughtful approach, steering clear of any questionable uniform changes in the future.

In conclusion, Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar in Arlington is far more than just another sports bar; it’s a vibrant dining destination that skillfully blends high-quality Louisiana-inspired cuisine with an engaging, family-friendly atmosphere. From the unexpectedly gourmet appetizers like the Boom Boom Shrimp to the hearty entrees and the unforgettable Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding, every dish is crafted with care. The innovative self-serve beer taps and the thoughtful uniform policy further enhance the unique appeal. Whether you’re a devoted sports fan, a connoisseur of Southern flavors, or simply looking for a comfortable and welcoming spot for a meal with loved ones, Walk-On’s Arlington is a must-visit in the DFW area. It truly offers a game-changing experience in casual dining.

Address:

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar Arlington, TX
401 E Interstate 20 (in the Arlington Highlands shopping area)

www.walk-ons.com