Local Love: Deep Ellum Edition

Known for its vibrant, quirky and artful aesthetic, the Deep Ellum neighborhood and entertainment district is an evolving treasure in the Dallas community with a rich history all its own. The neighborhood was established in 1873 as a commercial and manufacturing district for Black and European immigrants. It reached popularity in the 1920s when early jazz and blues musicians would come through and play at local venues. Since that time, the commitment to keeping Deep Ellum artist centric is evident in its many performance venues, art galleries and murals around every corner. Locally owned shops and restaurants are cozied into every nook and cranny, just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. There are long loved haunts that have become established fan favorites, as well as an influx of new concepts that have added a fresh flair to this historic district. Check out these locally loved gems that make Deep Ellum one of the crown jewels of the Big D.

Pecan Lodge

It is impossible to walk the streets of Deep Ellum without becoming distracted and immediately rerouted to the front steps of Pecan Lodge, a barbeque joint with a cult following and the beef ribs to back it up. The intoxicating aroma of mesquite smoked meats permeating the air adds yet another layer of comfort to an already cozy atmosphere, as does another helping of fried okra. Fueled by family recipes and a heart for doing life around the table, Pecan Lodge has become a Texas treasure and one of the best places to get your barbeque fix. Patience is a virtue when it comes to this hot spot, as there is usually a line wrapped around the building – a testament to the mouthwatering meals that await. So grab some friends and a spot on the patio and prepare to indulge in one of the most delicious dining experiences that Dallas and Deep Ellum have to offer.

Deep Ellum Brewing Company

Proudly known as Dallas' first craft brewery, Deep Ellum Brewing Company opened its doors in 2011 and have been making some of the city's best beers for nearly a decade. Committed to innovative brewing and exceptional quality, they pride themselves on doing things a little differently and standing up to the status quo, an homage to the spunk of the neighborhood it calls home. While the 'Dallas Blonde' lager and the Deep Ellum IPA are fan favorites, you can take a tour or visit their taproom and sample a wide range of creative brews like the Neato Bandito Mexican-style lager or the Dream Crusher, a double rye IPA. Whatever drink you choose, we suggest grabbing a six-pack or crowler to take a piece of Deep Ellum to share with friends wherever you call home.

Flea Style

Handmade. Vintage. One-of-a-kind. These are the root words to describe everything you will find at Flea Style's gorgeous storefront. A modern day nod to a flea market, this lady-led team supports creative movers and shakers and always seek to promote local artists, thrifters and makers by giving them a spotlight in their brick-and-mortars, online storefront and on their social media and podcast. They carry a wide range of goods from handmade clothes, jewelry and art to hand-poured candles, palo santo bundles and many other unique gifts that will make your holiday shopping feel like a breeze. If you're looking for the perfect present or souvenir that doesn't involve shot glasses or magnets, this is the place for you.

Basic Taco + Yellow Rosa

Brand new to the neighborhood, Basic Taco and Yellow Rosa are two sister concepts under the same roof with two unique personalities. Offering simple and delicious staples, Basic Taco is a hot spot for street tacos and other casual fare inspired by Mexico City. Vegetarians and vegans need not avoid these delicious digs; they are committed to offering alternative options to accommodate any palette or dietary preference. The real fun, hidden within the 'basic' exterior, is anything but. Step inside speakeasy-style 'cocktaileria' Yellow Rosa for a special surprise. Inspired by the beaches and cantinas of Tulum, it's hard not to fall in love with the upscale and moody décor and amazing cocktail menu that means business with mezcal. For a unique experience, book one of the Sancho rooms and enjoy a three-course candlelit dinner in a suite separated by a floor to ceiling macramé curtain. It's the perfect spot to canoodle on a romantic night out, celebrate something special or just enjoy a special night out on the town.

The Bomb Factory

The Bomb Factory is a state-of-the-art, 50,000 square foot entertainment venue located in the heart of the Deep Ellum neighborhood. The building was constructed over a century ago and originally dedicated to manufacturing bombs and ammunitions for armed forces during WWII, hence the name 'Bomb Factory.' It was converted into a music venue in the mid-90s and in 2015, the site underwent a multimillion-dollar reconstruction to accommodate the latest technology and over 4,000 attendees. Hosting a variety of events and concerts, the Bomb Factory is dedicated to bringing the best in entertainment, like Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlisle and many others, to the Dallas area.