There are few upscale restaurants in Dallas that have the allure, mystique and fame of Fearing’s Dallas. Located in the Ritz-Carlton, Chef Dean Fearing has brought a lifetime of experience into designing a restaurant that not only has the finest cuisine but features stunning artwork, onyx and unique chandeliers in each of the four dining rooms.
All in all, there are a total of seven different settings for dining (including the outdoor bar and dining room). The whole restaurant has been created as a work of art and if you enjoy the Fearing’s experience, you’ll want to return as soon as possible.
Fearing’s decor is truly distinctive, full of luxury touches and details you won’t find elsewhere – from leather lined bathroom mirrors to stone ceilings to an innovative and gorgeous outdoor garden dining area.
If you like to watch your dinner being prepared, you’ll want to make sure to get a seat at the Chef’s Table or at the seats which border the kitchen, allowing you to hear the sounds of sizzling meals being prepared.
You’ll want to check out each dining area, of course, but if you want to stop by Fearing’s without reservations, your best bet is the counter area (no reservations are required here).
When it comes to accolades and awards, Fearing’s has a vast array. It was named “Restaurant of the Year” as well as “Table of the Year” by Esquire Magazine (2007). Fearing’s was also awarded the Number 1 Hotel Dining in the U.S. title by Zagat in 2009. The New York Times, Food and Wine, Texas Monthly and Modern Luxury have all taken note of this distinctive restaurant.
Expect to spend a minimum of $40 to $80 per person and even significantly more if you order special wines (there are 554 different types offered at Fearing’s). While vegetarian options are available, beef and seafood are definitely the order of the day at Fearing’s, prepared with unique flair and taste. Fennel dusted Alaskan Halibut, Apricot Barbecue Bob White Quail, Dr. Pepper Short Ribs and Sweet and Sour Prawns are just a few of the possible main courses.
You’ll definitely want to leave room for dessert, perhaps accompanied by a choice of dessert wines. Although some of the desserts have simple names resonant of down home cooking, they are far from standard fare – but kicked up a notch or two. To take just one example, the usually humble Banana Pudding is elevated to gourmet status at Fearing’s with the addition of homemade vanilla wafers, toasted meringue, Bananas Foster sauce and beignets.
As you step through the doors of Fearing’s, you won’t see any of the different dining rooms. Instead you’ll be greeted by a stunning host station as well as a lounge area with a lovely orange glow. Lined with comfortable chairs, you’ll be bathed in the rich tones of honey onyx. Thus particular stone is featured throughout the restaurant.
It is no surprise that regulars comment on Fearings as “the best restaurant in Texas”. The hardest decision may be selecting which dining room to enjoy. Each has a special ambiance and many feature Murano chandeliers.
Maybe you’ll like the Sendaro room, with a glass pavillion offers a light, airy view for lunch and turns into a cozy haven at night. Rich teak tables and leather covered settees offer the best in luxury. The Sendaro room has sometimes been dubbed the “sexiest” dining room in Dallas, perhaps a perfect choice for a romantic evening.
The Dean’s Kitchen wraps around a dining room. The Chef’s Table, named “table of the year” by Esquire, features Rosenthal plates and only the best in silverware and glasses. For a special treat, reserve the Wine Room, a private dining area which can hold up to 16 people. Special menus can be prepared here upon request.
Even the bathrooms are stunning. Glass bowls, Jerusalem limestone and African mahogany ceilings are among some of the details which leave guests gasping in awe.
Fearings is located at 2121 McKinley Avenue and can be contacted at (214) 922-4848 for more information of to make reservations. If you’re staying at the Ritz-Carlton, you’ll clearly want to try Fearing’s.
Nearby attractions include the Nasher Sculpture Center and Dallas Segway Tours. Fearing’s offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch options. Hours vary so do call the restaurant for weekday and weekend hours.
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