Let me start out by saying: you’re going to want to save this post, show it to your spouse or schedule a reservation after you finish reading this, because Kate and Landon have us covered! Whether you’re visiting Dallas or a Dallas-native, you have your future brunch dates, casual dates or anniversary dates planned.

Kate is the creative, party stylist and lifestyle blogger behind The Everyday Hostess, and I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know her over the past year. I fell in love with her work when I started following her on Instagram (@the_everyday_hostess), and she styled our couple’s brunch this past fall! I wish I had an eye for decorating like the does, but truly, she can do it all! She’s so talented, fun and sweet! She and Landon are getting married this June, and they were so wonderful to share a guest post during all of their busyness! Hope to see you out at some of these date spots! I think Jordan and I are going to hit up Pie Tap first!

By The Everyday Hostess

Kate Jolliffe + Landon Haaf

Jackie Cooper Photography

Happy Marriage Monday! The two of us are just getting started on the marriage adventure, but we’ve heard from couples of all ages that the most important thing in maintaining the “spark” is regular date nights and one-on-one time with the spouse. Luckily for us, Dallas has plenty of fun date night spots, making it a GREAT place to keep the romance alive!

As a couple who met in Dallas and as self-proclaimed foodies, we love exploring the trendy spots around town to grab a bite or a libation. Whether you are looking for a chic and swanky atmosphere or low key and casual vibe, we’ve got you and your next date covered with some of our favorite restaurants and bars as well as the best menu items!

Brunch Spots:

Mercat Bistro – Located in the new Harwood District and right next to St. Ann’s, Mercat Bistro is the perfect place to enjoy a Saturday or SUnday morning brunch with your special someone. The French inspired decor gives the restaurant an intimate and romantic vibe, yet it still feels approachable. They boast a fantastic croque Madame that pairs perfectly with their mimosa carafes. The restaurant is rather small, so be sure to make reservations in advance, but if you find yourself without a table, you can always walk to St. Ann’s next door which is also one of our favorite spots!

Landon’s Favorite: Croque Madamme

Kate’s Favorite: Vegetable Quiche

Henry’s Majestic – Henry’s Majestic has a low key and edgy vibe that makes it the perfect spot for a casual brunch. They are best known for their “Bubbly Bar”, which is a well stocked DIY mimosa bar, and will give your day the perfect kickoff.

Landon’s Favorite: Majestic Egg Sandwich

Kate’s Favorite: Charred Tomatillo Chilaquiles

Formal Dinner Date:

Neighborhood Services – Neighborhood Services has topped the D Magazine’s Top 100 restaurants for years now and it’s not hard to see why. Owned by the same guys as Nick and Sam’s, this American style steak-house is the perfect spot to impress your date. Neighborhood Services does a stellar job of creating a formal yet approachable and intimate atmosphere that makes it one of the best date night or celebratory restaurants. Plus the steak is to die for, and don’t get me started on the salmon!

Landon’s Favorite: Filet of Beef Tenderloin

Kate’s Favorite: Caramelized Scallops

Ocean Prime – Ocean Prime is definitely one of our absolute favorite spots when celebrating a birthday or anniversary. This classy, white tablecloth restaurant boasts some of the best seafood in all of Dallas, plus they know how to make you feel extra special when celebrating a big occasion.

Landon’s Favorite: Lobster Mashed Potatoes

Kate’s Favorite: King Salmon

Mesero – This trendy Tex mex spot will always hold a special place in our hearts as the location of our first date. Started by the “godfather of Dallas Tex mex,” who was also the mastermind behind Mi Cocina and Mr. Mesero, Mesero is a local gem fit for the both the drinks-and-apps crowd and the full-dinner folks alike. Come for the tasty trio of salsas (salsa verde yes please), stay for the mouthwatering margs!

Landon’s Favorite: #4 Las Combinaciones

Kate’s Favorite: Cazera Ensalada

Low Key Date Night:

State and Allen – Tucked away on a corner just off the main drag of uptown Dallas (it’s at State Street and Allen Street), this is a casual spot with a great vibe and great food. Monday night is half-price pizza night, and a staple of our date night routine. Plus, it’s within a couple blocks of a bunch of drink spots if your date night plan includes multiple stops. Pro tip from Landon: Hitting up S&A for a laid-back date night doesn’t have to mean you don’t get to watch the big game — they’ve got several TVs, so you can still check in on the score.

Landon’s Favorite: BBQ Chicken Pizza

Kate’s Favorite:  The White Pizza

Pie Tap – For all you craft pizza lovers, this is a great new spot to check out. With a location in the Knox Henderson area and another in the Design District, it is conveniently located for most Dallasites. They have a delicious menu of specialty pizzas, appetizers (get the goat cheese fondue — swoon!), and salads, plus a great selection of craft beers. This is the perfect spot to unwind with your significant other, or if you want to enjoy from home, take them up on their killer delivery deal which includes beer and wine!

Landon’s Favorite: Sausage Pizza

Kate’s Favorite: Goat Cheese Fondue

Dallas Grilled Cheese Co. – You make have thought grilled cheese sandwiches were a relic of your childhood…but it’s made a comeback. And we’re not talking Kraft Singles and Mrs. Baird’s here. Their menu takes grilled cheese to the next level with specialty sandwiches paired with delectable sweet potato fries.

Landon’s Favorite: BBQ Short Rib Mac ‘N & Grilled Cheese

Kate’s Favorite: Chicken Caprese Grilled Cheese

The Porch- This Knox Henderson establishment is always one of our favorites when we are looking for some delicious comfort food but still want a more upbeat atmosphere. Come as you are, or dress up a little, you are sure to fit right in.

Landon’s Favorite: The Stodg Burger

Kate’s Favorite: Crab Cake Salad + Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Black Pepper Bacon

Drinks:

Midnight Rambler – Located at the bottom of The Joule Hotel, this chic underground cocktail lounge is a Dallas hot spot. With a menu filled with craft cocktails and exotic ingredients it’s the perfect spot for the couple looking for a trendy night out on the town!

Landon’s Favorite: Cuffs & Buttons

Kate’s Favorite: Bohemian Bloom

Parliament – If you haven’t been to Parliament you are missing out! This is our absolute favorite spot to grab a quick drink after work or weekend night. Situated in the heart of uptown in the quiet State Thomas neighborhood, this 1920’s style craft cocktail bar is a neighborhood favorite. They have an awesome $4 happy hour everyday from 5-8pm as well as whenever it’s raining!

Landon’s Favorite: Old Fashioned

Kate’s Favorite:  Moscow Mule