Tucked between Bluffview and Preston Hollow, the Midway Hollow neighborhood of Dallas has become a low-key culinary destination that locals can’t stop talking about. From bustling breakfast hubs and artisan bakeries to laid-back lunch spots and surprising international flavors, Midway Hollow boasts a warm, under-the-radar food scene that punches well above its weight. Whether you’re a resident looking to spice up your dining routine or a newcomer eager to savor the best bites on this side of Walnut Hill Lane, here’s a curated tour of where to dine out—and dine well—in Midway Hollow.
Where Brunch Dreams Begin
Start your Midway Hollow culinary crawl with breakfast—locals love hitting up the stretches around Northwest Highway and Midway Road.
- Crossroads Diner (17194 Preston Rd, just south of Northwest Hwy): A legend in Dallas breakfast lore, Crossroads Diner is renowned for fluffy, sky-high cinnamon rolls and old-school classics like buttermilk pancakes and eggs Benedict. The spacious dining room and bottomless coffee make it a community favorite any day of the week. Expect reasonable prices ($10-$16 for breakfast plates) and a family-friendly vibe.
- White Rock Coffee – Preston Hollow (5930 Royal Ln at Preston): While technically bordering the area, this indie coffee shop is a neighborhood living room. They roast their own beans, offer creative espresso drinks, and their pastry case surprises with both sweet and savory treats. Grab a rosemary ham biscuit or flaky croissant, and soak up the friendly chatter among regulars.
Lunches That Hit the Spot
Moving into midday eats, Midway Hollow’s diverse lineup doesn’t disappoint.
- Kel’s Kitchen (114 Melrose Dr. & Walnut Hill Ln): An old-school Southern diner with history, Kel’s is the go-to for patty melts, fried catfish, and ooey-gooey pies under $12. It’s cash-only, straight out of another era, and the kind of place where servers remember your “usual.”
- Sachet (4270 Oak Lawn Ave. near Midway Rd.): For a fresher, brighter lunch, head to this Mediterranean-inspired spot, which is a quick trip from the neighborhood. Sachet’s mezze platters, wood-fired flatbreads, and crisp salads take you on a flavorful journey across Greece, Lebanon, and beyond. Prices hover around $15-$18 for entrées, with a stylish but inviting atmosphere.
- Jimmy's Food Store (hands-down Italian hidden gem, just south in Old East Dallas): A short drive but worth the detour, Jimmy's is an Italian market and deli where locals pick up sandwiches stuffed with house-cured meats, cheeses, and fresh-baked bread. The muffuletta is legendary, as are the cannoli.
Dinner Destinations: Eclectic and Elevated
Midway Hollow’s dinner scene is all about variety, from cozy neighborhood stalwarts to upscale newcomers on the main corridors.
- TJ’s Seafood Market & Grill (6025 Royal Ln at Preston): Beloved for super-fresh seafood in a laid-back space, TJ’s offers plump crab cakes, grilled Gulf fish, and even sushi rolls. For those seeking a splurge, the seafood towers and lobster rolls are local all-stars ($18-$30 per entrée).
- ChopShop Sports Garage (2720 W. Mockingbird Ln): If you’re after burgers, creative bar bites, and Texas craft beer, look no further. This sporty spot offers big TVs, garage-style décor, and a fun, unpretentious menu (think brisket nachos, spicy fried chicken sandwiches, or even vegan burgers). Most plates land between $12-$18, making it easy to bring friends or the whole crew.
- Rise No. 1 (5360 W Lovers Ln): The soufflé isn’t just a dessert here—it’s an art form. This chic-yet-approachable bistro specializes in savory and sweet soufflés, alongside creative French-inspired salads and cheese boards. It’s a favorite for date night or special occasions, with most main courses under $22.
Sweet Treats and Artisanal Eats
No food tour is complete without dessert—and Midway Hollow delivers everything from European pastries to classic American sweets.
- Empire Baking Company (5450 W Lovers Ln): Bite into some of the city’s most amazing artisan breads, cookies, and rustic cakes at this beloved bakery. Their sourdough batards and chewy chocolate walnut cookies are must-tries, and their pretty windowed shop draws pastry-lovers citywide.
- JD’s Chippery (6601 Hillcrest Ave., a quick zip east): If homemade cookies are your jam, JD’s Chippery—famous for gooey chocolate chip cookies with crisp edges—is worth the short drive.
Food Trucks and Good Eats on The Go
- Klyde Warren Park Food Trucks (a food truck gathering spot within 10 minutes): The Midway Hollow crowd knows that the best tacos, Asian fusion, and BBQ sometimes roll in on wheels. Check schedules for weekly appearances by local favorites like Ruthie’s Grilled Cheese and Easy Slider.
Local Traditions and Culinary Culture
Midway Hollow is a neighborhood with both family-friendly tradition and foodie cred. You’ll see locals sharing kolaches from Czech bakeries on Sundays, gathering for Tex-Mex on patios, or picking up slow-roasted brisket and jalapeño sausage at local barbecue pop-ups. Many of the area’s hidden gems are tucked into unassuming strip centers along Walnut Hill Ln, Midway Rd, and Lovers Ln—don’t be afraid to explore beyond the main intersections.
Honorable Mentions: More Gems to Try
- Tony’s Pizza & Pasta (10233 E Northwest Hwy, a neighborhood staple): Straightforward, huge New York-style pies and pasta in a red-checkered-tablecloth setting.
- Neighborhood Services (5027 W Lovers Ln): Upscale comfort plates like chicken-fried steak, American bistro fare, and a solid cocktail list. This Lovers Lane destination is pricey but worth every bite.
Eat Like a Local
What makes Midway Hollow’s food scene special is the sense of discovery—each eatery feels like someone’s best-kept secret, serving up honest hospitality alongside well-crafted plates. This is a neighborhood where newcomers are welcomed like regulars, and where flavor, tradition, and creativity meet at every meal.
Whether you’re craving a casual breakfast, a memorable dinner, or the simple joys of coffee and cookies, Midway Hollow satisfies every foodie urge—without the usual Dallas crowds. Come hungry, bring friends, and don’t forget to save room for the city’s best cinnamon roll.