There are so many great places to live in Dallas that it helps to have an expert on your side. The Neighborhood Guide presented by Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty gives you insider access from the agents who live and work there, providing in-the-know info about your possible new community.
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"East Dallas isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a whole vibe," says real estate agent Bess Dickson, who has been "running these streets for nearly 20 years."
And many would agree with this laidback assessment: East Dallas' streets are lined with 100-year-old oak trees, broad sidewalks, and winding streets, encouraging residents to slow down and enjoy the their natural surroundings.
"East Dallas is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and savor the little things, from sunrise over White Rock Lake to the scent of fresh tamales at the Sunday market," Bess says. "Its historic homes, seasonal traditions, and community that makes you feel like family combine into this incredible blend of Old World charm and lively energy that you just can’t fake. When I lace up for a run with my dog Truman, we dive right into that energy, and let me tell you: East Dallas always delivers."
Bess offered up a few of her personal favorites about life in East Dallas. Here's her guide to the area:
Where to eat & drink
According to Bess, this is where where brunch, patio vibes, and flavorful dinners rule. "East Dallas delivers a food scene that’s as diverse and authentic as the neighborhood itself," Bess says. Here's her rundown of the can’t-miss spots that both she and Truman personally endorse:
Garden Cafe: When it comes to brunch, Garden Cafe is the hands-down champion. Tucked away in Junius Heights, this East Dallas gem feels like a well-kept secret, nestled in a quiet neighborhood where birds are chirping and the garden blooms right outside the patio. Their breakfast classics are comfort food with a twist, and the whole vibe is welcoming and relaxed. Whether you’re into veggie-loaded omelets or craving their heavenly biscuits and gravy, Garden Cafe’s fresh ingredients and garden-to-table approach make it the kind of place that brings you back again and again.
Birdie’s: When patio season hits, Birdie’s Eastside is the spot to be. Located right by White Rock Lake, Birdie’s has all the charm you’d want in a patio paradise, with dishes that hit the spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Their seasonal menu is always changing, but you can’t go wrong with their fried chicken sandwich or any of the farm-fresh salads. And the patio? It’s made for lingering with friends over cocktails, soaking up that East Dallas outdoor vibe.
Petra and the Beast: Ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure? Petra and the Beast is where East Dallas dining goes bold. Located in the Lakewood Shopping Center, Petra is known for its farm-to-table and nose-to-tail approach. Chef Misti Norris’s creations are a blend of Southern flavors and international techniques, with dishes that surprise and delight. The charcuterie boards and seasonal small plates change often, making each meal here unique. It’s a place for those who want something special, a meal that feels like an experience. Reservations are a must!
Truck Yard: Sometimes you’re in the mood for something easygoing and spontaneous — that’s where Truck Yard comes in. This outdoor space with a Texas flair is equal parts beer garden, food truck haven, and live music venue. There’s always a rotation of food trucks, offering everything from Philly cheesesteaks to tacos, so there’s something for everyone. Throw in some live music and a crowd that’s just out for a good time, and you’ve got one of East Dallas’s most eclectic and entertaining hangouts. Grab a seat, enjoy the atmosphere, and see where the day (or night) takes you.
The Hot Chicken Showdown: In East Dallas, hot chicken is a serious topic, and the debate between Lucky’s and Palmer’s is alive and well. Each spot has its own vibe and its own take on the spicy favorite:
Lucky’s Hot Chicken: If you’re after a classic diner experience, Lucky’s is your spot. With retro décor and a bustling energy, Lucky’s serves up Nashville-inspired hot chicken with the heat level you crave, from mild to seriously spicy. The creamiest of soft serve ice cream is included and the coolest way to bring that spicy AF down to bearable.
Palmer’s Hot Chicken: Palmer’s, on the other hand, has a homier feel with a side menu that goes all out. Here, you’ll find comforting Southern sides, including the must-try cheese grits (a personal favorite of mine!). Palmer’s chicken has that juicy, flavorful bite that’s hard to beat, and the space itself is casual and warm, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with friends.
Whether you’re Team Lucky’s or Team Palmer’s, both offer their own slice of spicy perfection in East Dallas.
Where to play
If there’s a soul to East Dallas, it’s White Rock Lake. On any given day, you’ll find bikers, joggers, kayakers, and dog lovers making the 9.3-mile loop around the lake.
"Truman’s nose is in high gear as he sniffs every breeze, and I can’t help but feel grateful for this slice of nature so close to the city," says Bess. "Early mornings here are magic: the sun coming up over the water, casting a soft glow over everything. Watching the local crew teams glide by in sync is a near-mystical experience. It’s a little bit of serenity right in our backyard."
Bess also recommends visiting the Dallas Arboretum, catching a sunset on Winfrey Point, and taking a dip at the city pool at Tietze Park, where its 1920s stone buildings recently underwent a facelift.
"Sundays in East Dallas mean one thing: the Good Local Market," reveals Bess. "It’s where you’ll find the best local produce, handmade goods, and a lively crowd of neighbors catching up over fresh coffee. Truman’s a big fan, too, especially when he gets a little taste of the homemade dog treats some vendors have. And me? I love the homemade jams, artisanal cheeses, and finding new treasures each time."
What to see
Strolling down Swiss Avenue from La Vista through to Fitzhugh is a can't-miss experience for house lovers. With the highest concentration of unique architectural styles in the United States, its no wonder Sherwin Williams selects one of these as its showcase home year after year.
Take some time along the way to walk through Aldredge House, a historic home in near pristine condition currently run by Friends of the Aldredge Home. If you can, time your trip to the living history play that winds its way through the home — it's limited to only 30 attendees, due to the unique structure. These are presented on the second Saturday of each month at 11am.
If seeking a quiet and reflective moment, wander around McCree Cemetery and read gravestones that date back to the 1800s.
The famous Four Day Weekend improv troupe performs right off Greenville Avenue, or you can head over to The Granada for a concert at one of the top-ranked live music venues in the state of Texas. The murals within are pretty special, and its next-door concept, Sundown at Granada, offers farm-to-table fare with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.
"When the holidays roll around, the Lakewood Toy Drive Parade is where East Dallas really shines," says Bess. "Picture it: families lining the streets, classic cars decked out in tinsel, and even Santa himself cruising through. People bring toy donations, wave to their neighbors, and cheer on the festive floats. It’s one of those classic East Dallas moments: neighbors coming together, kids wide-eyed with excitement, and a whole lot of holiday cheer."
Where to live
East Dallas is like stepping into an open-air architectural museum, where each turn brings you face-to-face with homes that echo a hundred years of design.
"My running buddy, Truman, and I have covered nearly every block, soaking up the character and charm of these historic neighborhoods," Bess shares. "With each stride we pass through eras, from grand, Southern-style mansions to cozy Craftsman bungalows, all wrapped in that classic East Dallas charm that feels both timeless and alive."
Here's a "running tour" of East Dallas neighborhoods from Bess:
Munger Place: Here, it’s all about Prairie School and Craftsman homes: broad porches, deep eaves, and stately columns. Truman loves to stop and sniff around these historic homes, and I’m convinced he’s just as charmed by them as I am. There’s something so grounding about this neighborhood, designed in 1905 with a focus on nature and simple, strong lines that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. It's like Dallas’ answer to the Arts and Crafts movement, and every home feels like it’s been here forever, watching the city grow.
Swiss Avenue: Next up we hit Swiss Avenue, and it’s a show-stopper every time. The homes here are grand, with Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Italian Renaissance styles competing for attention. Truman’s ears perk up as we pass by a Gothic Revival with stone details — he knows this is where the history gets truly regal. Each house here feels like it’s out of a storybook, with manicured lawns and intricate details that make Swiss Avenue a place you just want to savor. These are homes that stand as symbols of early 20th-century opulence.
Junius Heights: We round the corner into Junius Heights, where Craftsman bungalows offer a warm, inviting vibe. Built in the early 1900s, these homes have that unmistakable Craftsman style: low-pitched roofs, exposed beams, and big, friendly porches. Truman loves this stretch, where the homes feel closer and more neighborly. I imagine kids playing on porches and neighbors chatting over coffee, and it feels like stepping back into a simpler time. It’s a reminder of how architecture can shape community; here, everything is approachable, like East Dallas’s own village.
Little Forest Hills: Next on our route is Little Forest Hills, with its “Keep Little Forest Hills Funky” vibe. It’s the perfect motto for this area, where midcentury modern meets artistic expression. Truman and I pick up the pace here, energized by the neighborhood’s eclectic charm. Homes are a mix of clean lines and quirky personal touches, and it’s impossible not to smile as you pass them. The midcentury style here is fresh and creative, with open layouts and expansive windows that let in the light. Little Forest Hills feels like the artistic heart of East Dallas, always reinventing itself but never losing that unique, funky soul.
Lakewood: Finally, we end our run near Lakewood, where East Dallas meets upscale lakeside living. This neighborhood is all about Tudor Revival and Spanish Eclectic homes, with arched doorways, stucco facades, and steep, pitched roofs that make each house feel like a private oasis. Truman slows down here, possibly appreciating the grandeur of it all. We pass homes with sprawling lawns and intricate details that whisper of Old World luxury, and I’m reminded why Lakewood is such a beloved spot. Here, history and elegance meet, offering a serene escape with views of White Rock Lake just around the corner.
A recent sale of Bess' is 6101 Victor, a historic duplex just steps from from the Santa Fe Trail.
It's typical of East Dallas, Bess explains, with its bright and airy interiors, high ceilings, and beautiful wood details.
"Truman's and my runs through East Dallas are more than exercise; they’re like mini time-travel sessions through one of the most historically rich areas in Dallas," says Bess. "Truman and I pass everything from the sweeping Prairie style of Munger Place to the grandiosity of Swiss Avenue, each neighborhood telling a story through its architecture. East Dallas is more than just a place to live — it’s a place that captures Southern heritage, celebrates community, and invites you to be part of its ongoing story. For anyone who loves history, style, and a true sense of place, East Dallas is a rare gem that only gets better with time."
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Beth Dickson works and plays in East Dallas. For more information on buying and selling a home in the area, click here, email bess.dickson@sothebysrealty.com, or call 214-736-3921.
Photo courtesy of Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty
East Dallas has a funky charm all its own.
