Stephen Pyle, famous celebrity chef and one of the first to create Southwestern Cuisine, is head of a popular restaurant, aptly named after him, Stephen Pyles. The chef has taken Southwest cooking to a whole new level, and brought it to Dallas, Texas.
Sometimes dubbed New Millennium Southwestern, the ever evolving menu features Latin, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and other ethnic appetizers, entrees and desserts. One staple of Stephen Pyles is a generous 21 ounce Cowboy Ribeye steak with red chile onion rings and pinto-wild mushroom ragu.
Visitors rave about the innovative options found at Stephen Pyles, including the six course tasting menu. The creative inspiration and unique food also get major attention from diners.
Even though a full meal can be on the expensive side, generally over $50 per person, the restaurant is a favorite of many Dallas residents as well as tourists, getting repeat visits. When it comes to food that is this delicious, price seems to be no object.
The tapas and seviche bar is extremely popular, with oysters, shrimp and clam featured alongside ceviches. Some contain seafood and others do not but the Salmon Veracruzano with capers, green olives and Jalapenos comes highly recommended.
The restaurant has been the focus of major media attention, including feature articles in The Wall Street Journal, New York Times (travel section), Esquire and Oprah Magazine. It has also received the Dallas Foodie Hall of Fame Award for its Heaven and Hell Cake as well as other dishes.
Visitors should expect strong flavors in the entrees, ranging from smoky to spicy. The bold flavors have people returning time and again for food that goes far beyond the common and usual.
Stephen Pyles is an excellent choice for adults, perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions and group dinners. It is not particularly suited to children, since the menu doesn’t cater to youngsters.
Of course, it would be perfectly fine to bring home one of the delectable desserts as a special treat for the kids. The main menu, however, features unusual flavor combinations which won’t be familiar to children and is best for strictly adult nights out.
The atmosphere is sophisticated with a slightly casual feel. However, this is an upscale establishment, with a dress code that is defined as business casual. While walk-ins are accepted, reservations are strongly encouraged. It could be impossible to get a table without them (depending on the night).
The restaurant can seat as many as 160 people, but is often full during the lunch and dinner hours due to its popularity, location, food and unique decor.
A major attraction is the glass-enclosed kitchen, which diners compare to movable art. Every single table in Stephen Pyles has a view of the kitchen and can watch the chefs in action. For many, this is the main focal point of the entire restaurant.
Adding to the ambiance is the location of the restaurant, in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. Within walking distance of Stephen Pyles is the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, Meyerson Symphony Center and more. Diners often note that looking out at the Arts District adds to the appeal of this fine dining establishment.
Blending with the atmosphere of the Dallas Arts District, every part of Stephen Pyles pays homage to local and national artists, with artwork displayed on most of the walls.
Keeping with the Southwestern theme, Texas flagstone and terra-cotta accents evoke images of nature’s sunsets and the vivid colors of the desert. At the same time, there are very modern metal and wood geometric forms in some areas.
Valet parking is available, making it easy for guests to simply walk into the restaurant. While waiting for a table, many diners make a point of stopping by the bar.
The variety of wines and drinks earn accolades from visitors. Tequila drinks are popular but the wine list is among the best in the Dallas area, very impressive and with a full selection of both popular and rare labels. A fire pit is a focal point, with a terraced patio nearby.
Stephen Pyles is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am. to 2 Pm for lunch. Dinner hours are Monday through Thursday from 6 pm to 10:30 pm. Friday and Saturday hours are 6 -11 pm.
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