Timeless Romance

Time Warp

“When I get home I Shall write a book about this place… If I ever get home.” –Alice, Alice in Wonderland

Out of nowhere, an elevator appears in the middle of the street. I exit the car in confusion; I don’t remember this tunnel emerging from the busy Dallas streets before.  Then from behind me, I hear a man beckon for me, “Miss Calvert.”

Entranced, I look up to see a nice looking man in a suit. “Yes?” I reply.

“We have been awaiting your arrival. Please take the elevator to the lower level,” he stated with an ever so childish grin.

I got in the elevator and hit the button for the lower level, unsure of where this rabbit hole was going to lead me, but too curious to turn back now.  I started to hear the sounds of rain drops. I turned behind me to see a beautiful underground waterfall emerging. Was I in Narnia? Was this some kind of Secret Garden hidden below the busy streets of Dallas?  The doors opened and I was greeted by two smiling faces and the sudden aroma of sweet, savory smells. The ladies lead me into a time capsule of a room. I felt as if I had emerged from the elevator and stepped into a scene of one of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s books – Where nothing is too glam, too glitz and rich in every way possible. I had discovered the hidden gem of Dallas called Dakota’s Steakhouse. (Y’all mind you I have lived in Dallas my whole life, and how I missed this AMAZING place is beyond me?!? – I blame my parents.)

Fast forward to me swooning over the entire place, mainly the elevator, because it made me feel so regal and glamorous. I finally controlled myself and stopped taking selfies literally EVERYWHERE, enough to sit down and enjoy my lunch.  The food was nothing shy of, THE ABOSLUTE BEST FOOD EVER. Y’all, I have lately, out of nowhere, spent my time going bankrupt over fine dining. That being said, I have done my homework on good food in the Dallas area, and let me tell you… I would eat at Dakota’s every single time. The food is just as entrancing as the scenery. I literally ate until I developed a food baby… OK, FINE… Maybe they were food twins, but it was AMAZING! The chef was sweet enough to come and greet us after lunch. Joseph Hoffmaster, the chef, was much younger and much more handsome than I had envisioned. He was very poised and extremely kind, double bonus! As I sat in the room I couldn’t help, but to slowly begin planning my dream rehearsal dinner inside my head, and that’s when I decided- this place was just too good not to share!! (I did seriously consider keeping this my little secret, so y’all are welcome!)

Yes, I took multiple pictures of my AMAZING food!

Dakota’s

“Most of us, I suppose, have a secret country but for most of us it is only an imaginary country.” -C.S. Lewis, Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Not that I should have to give you more reason to pick Dakota’s for an upcoming event, but Janay, Dakota’s Sales and Marketing Manager, is the bomb.com. She is the sweetest and is your contact for WHEN you choose to book an event at Dakota’s. Janay is extremely knowledgeable and helpful with a very soothing demeanor. The perfect combination for someone you want handling your events! So what does Dakota’s have to offer you, my darling bride?! Here’s a list of the events that Dakota’s currently offers for you:

Chefs Table:

“We have our private Chef’s table that accommodates up to 12 guests. This can be reserved for lunch or dinner.”

Waterfall Patio

“Our renowned subterranean patio complete with waterfall, retractable roof, fire pit and private bar. The patio can accommodate up to 60 guests for a seated event or 120 for a cocktail reception.” **MY FAVORITE OPTION**

Wine Room

“Our semi-private Wine Room can accommodate up to 45 guests seated and 60 for a cocktail reception. This room also offers A/V capabilities.”

Restaurant Buyout

“The entire restaurant is available exclusively for a buyout and seats approximately 125 guests inside with additional seating on the patio for 60 guests. We can host a reception style event for 200 guests.”

Y’all did I even mention the LIVE piano playing they have?! — *cue sigh*

Off-Site Catering

“From 30 to 300, we can accommodate your off-site event needs.”

For more information on Dakota’s visit their NEW website: www.dakotasrestaurant.com

Basically, Dakota’s is your go-to for a dinner rehearsal or a small intimate, but TOTALLY FAB reception.

Secret Gardens and Pretty Princess’ 

“If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.”  -Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

So, what makes me really trust in Dakota’s? We recently altered a gown for one of our brides, Melissa, and she had her dinner rehearsal done at Dakota’s. I have never seen someone more pleased with the service, food and quality of a venue. Melissa and her now Mother-in-Law Carolyn were ecstatic to introduce me to Janay and tell me all about Dakota’s!  They were right!! (side note: Carolyn has worked at Lulu’s Bridal Boutique for over 10 years now, which made this bride and her experience with us extra special!)

Melissa had her dinner rehearsal at Dakota’s Friday and then was married Saturday. We were so happy to be able to help her for her BIG DAY! The dress she picked from Stardust Celebrations was beautiful and timeless. Just take a look for yourself!

Photo Credit: Harry Harjabrata, www.harryphoto.com

 I just loved getting to work with Melissa and, through her, also get to meet Janay with Dakota’s! Whether it is with a bride or visiting a new place, I always love getting to escape the everyday and live in the world of enchantment.