The Henry Dallas: An In-Depth Restaurant Review of Uptown’s New Culinary Gem

As a reviewer for TheaterJones.com, I’m frequently tasked with discovering exceptional dining establishments located conveniently near Dallas’s vibrant theater scene. When the assignment called for a restaurant close to the iconic Kalita Humphreys Theater—a true architectural masterpiece, being the only theater ever designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and one of his final completed buildings—my choice was instantaneous. The newly opened The Henry immediately sprang to mind. Its highly anticipated arrival in Dallas had been on my radar for months, and I was eager to experience what promised to be a significant addition to the city’s culinary landscape. Brought to us by the acclaimed Fox Restaurant Group, the same innovative force behind beloved concepts like Flower Child, True Food Kitchen, and North Italia, The Henry carries with it a reputation for quality and a knack for creating popular dining destinations. This review delves into our recent dinner experience, offering insights into the ambiance, menu highlights, and overall impression of The Henry in Dallas.

Discovering The Henry Dallas: More Than Just a Restaurant

The Henry in Dallas boldly positions itself as “the greatest neighborhood restaurant,” a grand claim considering its vast scope. This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a dynamic, sprawling establishment that seamlessly blends multiple concepts under one roof. Encompassing a sophisticated restaurant, a bustling coffee shop perfect for morning meetings or casual grab-and-gos, an elegant private dining spot ideal for special occasions, and a lively rooftop bar and lounge offering stunning city views, The Henry truly aims to be an all-day destination. One might initially wonder if attempting to be so many things to so many people could lead to a dilution of quality or a lack of focus. However, our recent visit proved these concerns unfounded. From the moment we stepped inside, it was evident that The Henry is already operating with impressive precision and efficiency across all its diverse offerings, buzzing with a vibrant energy that suggests immediate success.

An Inviting Ambiance: Old School Glamour Meets Industrial Chic

The interior design of The Henry Dallas is nothing short of captivating, creating an atmosphere that is both grand and welcoming. The space is flooded with natural light thanks to its impressively tall windows, which perfectly complement the wide plank wood floors that exude warmth and sophistication. Dark wood checkerboard-like tables add a touch of classic elegance, while the overall aesthetic can best be described as “old school stately glam meets industrial modern.” This unique fusion results in a visually stunning environment where every detail contributes to a sense of refined comfort. The thoughtful combination of plush seating, stylish fixtures, and strategically placed lighting ensures that the spacious interior feels intimate and inviting. It’s a gorgeous setting that instantly makes you want to settle in, relax, and linger over your meal or drink. The meticulous attention to design ensures that whether you’re there for a quick coffee, a leisurely dinner, or an evening cocktail on the rooftop, the surroundings enhance the entire experience, making it truly memorable.

Exploring The Henry’s Diverse Dinner Menu

The dinner menu at The Henry is thoughtfully curated, offering a wide and tempting array of appetizers, entrees, and sides designed to cater to a variety of palates and dietary preferences. A commendable aspect of their menu is the clear labeling of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it easy for diners with specific needs to navigate their choices confidently. This inclusivity truly sets The Henry apart, ensuring that everyone can find something delicious to enjoy.

Appetizers to Start Your Culinary Adventure

Our culinary journey began with a peruse of their impressive appetizer selection. The offerings ranged from comforting classics to more adventurous dishes. Options include hearty chicken tortilla soup, delightful house-made pretzels accompanied by a rich cheese fondue, succulent wild shrimp, savory short rib potstickers, and an intriguing artichoke and roasted mushroom toast elevated with black truffle goat cheese. For those seeking something indulgent, king crab and smoked Norwegian salmon are available, alongside perennial favorites like fresh guacamole and crispy parmesan truffle fries. The breadth of choices ensures that there’s an ideal start to any meal, promising an exciting prelude to the main courses.

Fresh Guacamole and Chips: A Classic Elevated

As our chosen starter, we opted for the classic guacamole and chips, a dish that often serves as a true test of a kitchen’s commitment to freshness and flavor. The Henry’s rendition did not disappoint, featuring generous, fresh chunks of avocado, roasted jalapeño for a hint of warmth, subtly charred onion, vibrant pico de gallo, and creamy queso blanco. There’s an undeniable pleasure in scooping up perfectly fresh guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips, and The Henry certainly delivers on that front. While the dish was exceptionally good, I felt it could have benefited from a brighter zing of lime, and my dining companion suggested a touch more salt. This minor divergence in preference only highlighted the subjective nature of taste, proving that while perfection is elusive, The Henry came remarkably close! My friend easily remedied the salt issue with the shaker on the table; I, on the other hand, would have welcomed a small lime wedge alongside the guacamole. Notably, the charred onion flavor was quite subtle, so even those who typically shy away from smoky notes should not be deterred from ordering this delightful appetizer.

Main Courses: From Wagyu Burgers to Scottish Salmon

The Henry’s dinner menu showcases an impressive array of main courses that span various culinary styles and preferences. Beyond the appetizers, diners can explore a wide and unique selection of salads, premium steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and succulent chicken dishes. More adventurous palates might gravitate towards the seared ahi tuna, while burger aficionados will appreciate the wagyu burger. Other enticing entrees include a spicy wild shrimp boil, a wholesome harvest bowl, perfectly cooked Scottish salmon, flavorful grilled portobello tacos, and comforting green chili chicken enchiladas. Each dish is designed to offer a distinctive culinary experience, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and creative execution.

The Henry Wagyu Burger: A Gourmet Take on a Classic

For one of our main courses, we opted for The Henry’s highly recommended wagyu burger, substituting the standard fries for a side of roasted Brussels sprouts with cashew harissa. The burger itself was a testament to quality, boasting incredible flavor and a satisfying juiciness that speaks to the premium wagyu beef. It was generously topped with thick, crispy bacon – so much so that my discerning foodie friend humorously described it as having “good bacon coverage.” Further enhancing this gourmet creation were perfectly grilled onions, fresh shredded lettuce, sharp white cheddar cheese, and a special “Henry sauce.” This signature sauce, with its distinct mustard seed-infused Thousand Island profile, added a unique and tangy creaminess that truly elevated the entire burger experience. Every bite was a harmonious blend of rich, savory, and fresh textures and tastes, making it a standout choice for those craving a sophisticated take on a classic.

Unforgettable Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Culinary Revelation

While the wagyu burger was undeniably delicious, the decision to substitute fries for the roasted Brussels sprouts turned out to be a stroke of pure culinary genius. These Brussels sprouts were, without exaggeration, the most delicious bites of the entire day, and quite possibly of the week. They were an absolute revelation, transforming a humble side dish into a true star of the meal.

It’s rare to find a side dish that completely steals the show, but these Brussels sprouts did exactly that. There’s often one special standout at a restaurant that lingers in your memory, beckoning you to return and haunting your taste bud dreams – for me, these Brussels sprouts are definitively the one at The Henry. They were cooked to absolute perfection, achieving that ideal balance of tender interior and crispy, caramelized edges. What truly elevated them was the genius addition of the cashew harissa sauce. This flavorful, slightly spicy, and wonderfully textured sauce clung to each sprout, creating a symphony of tastes that was both unexpected and incredibly satisfying. If you visit The Henry Dallas, these roasted Brussels sprouts are an absolute must-order; prepare to be amazed.

Scottish Salmon: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

Our other main course choice was the Scottish salmon, which we customized by substituting the toasted grain risotto for quinoa due to my dairy allergy. This thoughtful accommodation ensured I could fully enjoy the dish without concern. The Scottish salmon is elegantly presented with a vibrant array of accompaniments: tender roasted beets, a rich marcona almond pesto, and a sweet-tart sherry pomegranate molasses. Typically, it rests atop a bed of toasted grain risotto, but the quinoa proved to be an excellent, dairy-free alternative, maintaining the textural balance and nutritional value of the dish.

The entire dish was a harmonious blend of tastes and textures that made it an undeniable standout, one I would eagerly order again. The salmon itself was cooked to perfection, featuring a delightfully crispy and salty skin that gave way to a soft, succulent, and incredibly flavorful interior. This perfectly cooked fish was beautifully complemented by the delightful crunch of the marcona almonds, which added an extra layer of texture and nutty richness. The roasted beets provided an earthy sweetness, while the sherry pomegranate molasses introduced a bright, tangy counterpoint that cut through the richness of the salmon and pesto. The combination was perfectly balanced, showcasing a thoughtful approach to flavor pairing and ingredient harmony. It was a genuinely exquisite entrée that left a lasting impression.

A Sweet Surprise: Indulging in Dairy-Free Dessert

As someone with a dairy allergy – which, thankfully, only causes miserable sinuses rather than a hospital visit – finding a suitable dessert at a restaurant is often a rare treat. My usual routine involves taking a few cautious bites of certain options, or ordering ice cream on the side, knowing it will promptly be handed over to my dining companion. Therefore, when visiting a new establishment, I rarely plan on enjoying a full dessert.

However, The Henry delivered a wonderful surprise! Upon learning they offered a completely dairy-free and vegan carrot cake, complete with vegan cream cheese icing and vegan ice cream (generously topped with toasted coconut), suddenly, there was ample room for dessert. This wasn’t just a passable alternative; it was everything a carrot cake should be – moist, perfectly spiced, and utterly delicious. The dairy-free cream cheese icing was remarkably close to the real thing, capturing that rich, tangy sweetness without any compromise. Paired with the creamy vegan ice cream and the subtle crunch of toasted coconut, it was a truly satisfying and guilt-free indulgence. This thoughtful inclusion of high-quality dairy-free options speaks volumes about The Henry’s commitment to catering to all its guests, ensuring that even those with dietary restrictions can end their meal on a delightfully sweet note.

Exceptional Service and Minor Suggestions

Beyond the impressive food and stunning ambiance, the service at The Henry was equally commendable. Our server, Bryan, delivered impeccable service throughout the evening – attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly, he contributed significantly to our enjoyable dining experience. We extend a special shout-out to him for his professionalism. If there’s one minor suggestion for improvement, it pertains to table maintenance: serving drinks, even water, with coasters or cocktail napkins would be beneficial. Our beverages, while refreshing, were prone to sweating, which unfortunately left noticeable rings on the beautiful wooden tables. This small detail, easily remedied, would further enhance the otherwise polished and sophisticated dining environment.

Plan Your Visit: Essential Tips for The Henry Dallas

Based on our delightful experience at The Henry, we have three additional recommendations to help you make the most of your visit to this dynamic Dallas eatery:

• **Secure Your Spot with Reservations:** Given The Henry’s popularity and multi-faceted appeal, especially during peak dining hours, making reservations is highly recommended. This will ensure a seamless experience and avoid any potential wait times, allowing you to fully enjoy your meal or special occasion.
• **Unlock Savings with the Enewsletter:** Before your visit, take a moment to go to their official website and sign up for their enewsletter. They typically send an instant email containing an offer, such as $10 off your meal, which you can conveniently show to your server. It’s a simple way to enjoy a little extra value.
• **Explore the Rooftop Bar:** Whether before or after your meal, don’t miss the opportunity to check out The Henry’s stunning rooftop bar and lounge. It offers a fantastic atmosphere, often with vibrant music, and provides a unique vantage point to take in the Dallas skyline, making for a perfect end or start to your evening.

Location and Contact Information for The Henry Dallas

Address: 2301 N Akard St Suite 250 in Dallas

Website: https://www.thehenryrestaurant.com/locations/the-henry-dallas/