A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Dallas
Nestled between Uptown and Victory Park, the Harwood District offers a charming, walkable courtyard that feels worlds away from the bustling city. Jason and I chose this picturesque spot for our brunch date at Mercat Bistro, located at 2501 N Harwood St Suite 225, Dallas, TX 75201. The shady surroundings set the perfect tone for a leisurely and romantic outing.
What to Wear for a Stylish Brunch
As the Texas heat can be relentless, I was thrilled to finally wear my Fraya Knit Romper from Stitch Fix. This one-piece outfit, complete with pockets, is not only stylish but also practical, making it an excellent choice for a day out in Dallas. The romper’s breathable fabric kept me cool and comfortable throughout our brunch.
A Romantic Setting at Mercat Bistro
Mercat Bistro offers a mix of indoor and patio seating, and we opted for a cozy window corner. Sitting at a marble table, we enjoyed the cushioned wall bench and a stylish Bentwood Hairpin side chair. The drawn curtains around us added an element of mystery and transported us far from the familiar streets of Dallas.
Savoring the Brunch Experience
The staff at Mercat Bistro were warm and welcoming, sharing the day’s specials and bringing us a carafe of water. The barista impressed us with a beautifully crafted heart latte, served in a European tea cup. It was the perfect start to our brunch, setting the tone for the delicious dishes that followed.
Delicious Pastries, Creative Cocktails and Brunch Entrees
We began our meal with the Pastry Basket, a warm and buttery assortment of freshly baked pastries. Each pastry was a delight, especially the chocolate-filled croissant, which brought back fond memories of European breakfasts. For a cocktail, I tried a unique twist on the classic Spanish Sangria, recommended by our waiter. The fruit-infused ice ball slowly dissolved as Prosecco was poured over it, creating a refreshing and perfectly balanced drink.
Jason opted for the Steak & Eggs, a dish featuring a tender tri-tip steak, peppercorn sauce, and a crispy potato galette. The flavors were rich and satisfying, sparking a conversation about the origins of the tri-tip cut, which we discovered is a “poor man’s brisket.”
I chose the Smoked Salmon Benedict, which was nothing short of perfection. The generous portion of salmon, combined with poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, and another potato galette, created a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more.
A Stroll to Saint Ann and More Cocktails
After brunch, we took a leisurely stroll over to the Saint Ann, where we enjoyed another round of morning cocktails. The atmosphere was inviting, and we lingered over our drinks, sharing stories and savoring the moment. I tried The One With Rum, a cold and minty concoction, while Jason indulged in THE BALVENIE CARIBBEAN CASK 14, a single malt whisky with a fascinating backstory.
Exploring Saint Ann’s Rich History
Saint Ann is more than just a restaurant; it’s a place steeped in history. Once a parochial school, it now features a garden-inspired location with patio dining and American fare made with fresh local ingredients. The second level houses The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection, one of Dallas’ top attractions and the largest private collection of samurai art outside Japan.
Ending the Day with Relaxation and a Movie
Our date didn’t end there. We spontaneously booked a couples massage at Foot Palace Spa in Rowlett, where an hour of bliss in a private room melted away our stress. After freshening up at home, we headed to Rockwall Harbor Cinemark to watch Top Gun: Maverick. The movie was an adrenaline-filled experience, perfectly rounding off our day. We ended the night at Rosini Vineyard, sharing a delicious chicken flatbread, award-winning wine, and a decadent cheesecake.
