McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails (update), Dallas, 8/24/24 and 9/7/24

back entrance –9913 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218

We visited McRae’s in March of this year and were anxious to get back and try more of their foods.  Our reservations were on a Sat. night and they were very busy, enough so that we went around the back to park.  That also allowed us to check out the patio but it was not getting much use till later in the evening – it’s pretty hot outside in Dallas now.  Inside people were enjoying cocktails and conversations while music played in the background.  Service was good and efficient but when it’s busy, order your drinks right away as the bar gets backed up.  Our server was quite savvy though, and encouraged us to order drinks and appetizers while we looked over the menu.  The tables are on the small side but it worked and the close seating offered the chance to chat with your neighbors and check out other menu items.  It was great fun, good food and fine service – you can’t ask for more than that.  We went again 2 weeks later and tried some different items and also found some new additions and deletions to the menu.  Hope you’ll give it a try when you’re in Dallas. Continue reading

McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails, Dallas, 3/12/24

exterior – 9913 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218

Mike McRae opened McRae’s American Bistro in August 2023 in his hometown of Dallas.  He has been in the hospitality business for 50 years and he wanted to create a welcoming place for folks to dine, drink and relax and he found the perfect spot close to where he grew up.  Inside you’ll find a long bar opposite tables and bench seating.  Another room off the end was slightly elevated but filled with happy people.  The walls were covered with an eclectic  mix of memorabilia, the lights (many chandeliers) are dampened and music was in the background.  It was a small menu and no specials were offered but there was a full bar and limited wine list.  They are open daily for dinner and add brunch on Sat and Sun.  It’s the type of establishment needed in the area – a place where you can get good food and drink at a reasonable price but don’t need to wear “all the jewelry you own”.  The bill came in on old Golden Book, which brought me right back to my childhood.  I very much enjoyed our first visit and look forward to trying more on the menu.  Hope you will give it a try to when you’re in Dallas. Continue reading