I think everyone can agree being in college is awesome. You have all the independence you want. You can go out on a Monday night or to Whataburger at 3:00AM with your friends. Whatever your heart desires. And, for the most part, you don’t have to deal with any real life responsibilities. The only thing that gets in the way of the college dream is the inedible dinning hall food and the limited budgets we have to enjoy the massive foodtropolous Dallas provides.
This is why, if you ask me, Friday marks the beginning of the best weekend of the semester. Parents’ Weekend. The only weekend where it is socially acceptable to have mommy and daddy come with you to Barley House and where good food and drinks are endless. And, the best part of all, it’s free. Here’s a food play-by-play to keep your parents’ taste buds satisfied all weekend long.
Friday Night:
Your parents roll in from the airport and first thing is first…food. If your parents like trendy places take them somewhere like HG Sply Co. off of Lower Greenville. You can sit upstairs on the rooftop bar (if weather permits it) sipping’ on fantastic Moscow Mules. Nom on the really cool gastro pub twists of everyday classics (like pulled pork nachos and jalapeño bratwursts) while staring over the Dallas skyline. The Porch is another great choice. Located on Knox Henderson the restaurant is a little nicer, but still offers some fun options. Their 5 cheese grilled cheese and tomato soup is sure to please those younger siblings who tagged along.
Saturday Morning:
Brunchin’ is a habit and an absolute necessity. Saint Ann is an awesome spot with a breakfast BLT that is to die for. The refurbished wood gives a rustic vibe to the overall trendy décor. The glass floor and ivy wall provide a modern edge too. Don’t worry, the restaurant still has white linen tablecloths and serves their mimosas in wine glasses. Another fan favorite is The Common Table. Located in Uptown they have a killer breakfast wrap, a kick ass French toast, and the tropical mimosas are a must.
Saturday Afternoon:
After showing your parents around the SMU boulevards, roll on over to Truck Yard or The Rustic. These hip and trendy spin offs of the classic sports bar will have your parents envying Dallas. With TV’s everywhere you can catch college football games that matter, try some eclectic food, and sip on a sangria popsicle margarita. Sounds pretty good to me.
Saturday Evening:
It’s been a long day, and naturally the only way to fix that is with a nice steak on mom and dad. You can never go wrong with Al Biernat’s, Del Frisco’s or Nick and Sam’s. Try the lobster mac n’ cheese at Del Frisco’s, you won’t be sorry,
Sunday:
Send mom and dad off with a casual meal at Breadwinners. From cinnamon rolls to a burger to an egg white omelet, there is literally something for everyone. Then drop them off at the airport and lay in bed all day watching Netflix, thanking god you survived a weekend with your parents and counting down until your next good meal.