When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas
Why Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas is a downtown Dallas eatery located at 1300 Jackson Street, offering a variety of tapas-style small plates alongside salads and seafood options. This restaurant provides a cozy, intimate setting popular among small groups for casual get-togethers. Visitors appreciate its lounge vibe, complemented by a stylish decor that adds to the overall ambiance. Esco Dallas is known for hosting exciting weekend events and brunch, creating lively opportunities for socializing with friends. The menu includes standout items such as soul rolls, mac and cheese, french fries, and signature margaritas, which some guests have praised alongside unique offerings like grilled lamb chops with chimichurri. The venue attracts a diverse crowd, including families with children, as evidenced by repeat visitors with young kids. While it is relatively small and better suited for smaller parties, its downtown location makes it an accessible and convenient meetup spot. Esco Dallas also offers delivery services through platforms like Grubhub, extending convenience beyond the dine-in experience.
Here's what people think of Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas
As of recent, Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas holds a 3.8-star rating based on 473 reviews.
User reviews of Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas reveal a mixed reception, averaging a 3.8-star rating from approximately 473 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the inviting vibe and stylish decor that create an appealing atmosphere for social gatherings. Patrons often commend their favorite dishes such as the mac and cheese and soul rolls, as well as the bartenders who serve well-crafted drinks. Families noted that the food, including french fries, is enjoyed by children, suggesting a friendly environment. Additionally, some guests have enjoyed live music performances and vibrant weekend events, which enhance the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding inconsistent service quality and issues with food flavor, with some reviewers describing dishes as lacking in taste or seasoning. The restroom cleanliness has also been a point of concern for some diners. Furthermore, the restaurant’s size is seen as limiting, especially for larger groups wanting to host parties, as the space feels cramped for more than two or three people. In summary, Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas offers a lively downtown setting with several menu highlights that many guests appreciate, but potential visitors should be aware of variability in service and food quality, and limited space for larger gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sha'Ron Pickett
Lil Cass was awesome! She introduced us to food on the menu as a sample, which peeked our tastebuds and we ordered everything that sounded and looked good! IT WAS A DELICIOUS EXPERIENCE… HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! Thank you Family for surprising me!
Brianna M.
Listen I love Esco. I discovered them when I worked down the street and I love this restaurant. I’ve gone so many times. The food is good. The vibe is nice. The service is great. I really have no complaints. I got the catfish for lunch one day and if was fried right. I also came back for brunch and had the chicken and waffles. Those wings are delicious. During the week they have specials go and get some wings. I promise you’ll enjoy it. Everything is reasonably price, the service is great. For a downtown restaurant it is one of the best.
Brandi Kent-Glasco
I have visited this is establishment on Sunday during the brunch menu. We had the catfish and peach cobbler French toast tree. We had a bottle of champagne for mimosas and strawberry margaritas. The food was good and the drinks were good also. Our server was very friendly and was not overbearing which was appreciated. The atmosphere is nice but the music is a tad bit loud. All the staff was friendly and it is a place that I will visit again
Garmon Shawn
I pulled up to Esco Dallas on a late Wednesday night — which in my opinion is the perfect time to visit a restaurant when things are slow and chill. Off top, shoutout to bartender Corey — I asked him to freestyle a Hennessy cocktail concoction and he did not disappoint. Smooth, bold, and just the right amount of kick. Let’s highlight Chef Billy real quick because the food was doing what it needed to do: • Shrimp & Grits – Super flavorful and seasoned well, but the shrimp was overcooked and came out kind of rubbish-like. Plus, there was a bit too much grease on the plate. Still, the flavor was definitely there. • Loaded Fries – Yum yum! Full of flavor and not your basic loaded fries. Just hear me out and order them — you won’t regret it. • Crab Cakes – Listen… the crab cakes were caking on my mama! Packed with flavor and that remoulade sauce gave it a unique, mild spicy kick. Highly recommend these! Overall, Esco Dallas brings good energy, strong drinks, and food with real flavor. With a few tweaks, this spot could be next level — but for a laid-back night out, it definitely holds it down.
Adrianne Johnson
I came to Esco for lunch because I saw my coworker had this delicious looking Salmon BLT sandwich, so I had to try one for myself! Ace was my server and greeted me as I walked in and took my order. The sandwich was just as delicious as it looked and the price wasn’t bad either.
How to reach Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas
None
Website: None
Why Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas with your friends? Because this spot offers a uniquely cozy, vibrant atmosphere in the heart of downtown Dallas that invites groups to gather, eat, and celebrate together. While not the largest venue, its intimate setting creates a sense of closeness perfect for quality conversation and shared experiences. The vibe is lively, combining elements of a modern tapas bar with enduring charm and festive energy. Whether you’re meeting up for casual drinks or a fun night out with small plates to share, Esco’s combination of flavorful tapas, eclectic cocktails, and upbeat ambiance makes it a compelling choice for friends seeking a buzzing social hub. Despite its modest rating, many patrons cherish its inviting environment and the chance to enjoy weekend events or live performances, which add an entertaining layer to your group meetup. The balance of good music, approachable food, and spirited company means Esco Dallas can turn any group outing into an occasion worth remembering.
What activities make Esco Dallas ideal for group meetups? First and foremost, Esco Dallas is designed around tapas-style dining, which is perfect for sharing among friends and family. Small plates encourage a communal atmosphere, stimulating conversation as everyone samples a variety of dishes. This dining style inherently fosters interaction and participation, ideal for groups who want to engage deeply with their meal and each other. Beyond food, the restaurant hosts live music and special events, energizing the space and providing entertainment that keeps groups engaged. For instance, experiencing local musicians or themed parties can add an extra layer of fun and connection. Plus, the bar offers an eclectic range of cocktails, including margaritas and other craft drinks that complement the tapas and keep the social mood flowing. Though the venue is intimate rather than expansive, this closeness enhances the camaraderie, making it easier for groups to feel united in the shared experience rather than dispersed in a large hall.
Why is Esco Dallas a perfect place for a group to meet and relax? The answer lies partially in its location — right in the bustling downtown Dallas area, making it an accessible and convenient choice for friends converging from different parts of the city. The core of most group meetups revolves around good food and drink, and Esco delivers notably on these fronts. Guests often mention the quality and flavor of signature dishes such as mac and cheese or soul rolls, which provide comforting yet adventurous tastes to satisfy diverse palates. Though some reviews criticize service and occasional inconsistencies, many appreciate the personable bartenders and staff members who add warmth to the experience. The inviting decor and ambient lighting provide a relaxed backdrop while subtly encouraging celebration and connection. Particularly for groups looking to combine dinner and drinks with upbeat socializing, Esco Dallas hits a sweet spot by offering a dynamic, welcoming environment that feels both special and laid-back.
What kind of group activities does Esco Dallas support? Besides dining and drinking, Esco Dallas’s weekend brunches and themed events present ample opportunities for social engagement. Brunches, for example, allow for leisurely weekend gatherings where friends can linger over dishes and drinks without rush. Weekend events, such as live music shows, DJ nights, or special parties like the “Fine Shit Only Party” noted by patrons, transform the space into an immersive social playground. These events cater to people looking to celebrate milestones, enjoy casual nights out, or simply surround themselves with energy and fun. The relatively small rooms encourage mingling and easy chatting, making it simpler to include everyone in the group experience. Whether your group wants to focus on eating and drinking or add some dancing and live entertainment into the mix, Esco Dallas provides the infrastructure and vibe to support all these possibilities in one location.
How does Esco Dallas cater to families and diverse groups? While the venue’s main appeal is to socializing adults, families have found comfort in its menu and atmosphere as well. The mention of children enjoying flavorful, simple items like french fries suggests Esco’s offerings can accommodate younger appetites and different tastes, making it a flexible meeting place for mixed-age gatherings. The modest size and cozy feel can help family groups stay connected and avoid the background noise of overly large establishments. While service experiences vary, the staff generally strive to accommodate group needs, which can be crucial in family or multigenerational meetups. The restaurant’s location within an accessible urban area further enhances its suitability for diverse groups, as guests can combine dining with other nearby activities or sightseeing in downtown Dallas. This makes Esco Dallas not just a restaurant or bar but a hub for social bonding across different group types.
What makes Esco Dallas stand out compared to other Dallas dining spots? Unlike larger or more formal restaurants, Esco Dallas balances modern tapas cuisine with a casual, social club-like atmosphere that appeals to younger crowds and anyone looking for a more vibrant, animated experience. Its specialty in tapas — small, varied plates meant for sharing — naturally promotes sociability and a dynamic dining experience. This contrasts with traditional entrée-focused meals that may feel more segmented or solo-oriented. Additionally, the inclusion of live events and a high-energy bar scene makes it more than just a dinner spot; it’s a destination for entertainment and social gathering. The interior design, often described as trendy yet approachable, supports spontaneous interaction and fun. Despite some critiques about space and occasional service issues, the overall package Esco Dallas offers is a unique blend of food, drink, fun, and intimacy that could suit groups who want to mix dining with a night of spirited engagement.
Why choose Esco Dallas for your next friends or family meetup over other alternatives in Dallas? The main appeal lies in its distinct combination of urban accessibility, tapas dining, and live entertainment rolled into a cozy setting that encourages togetherness. Unlike sprawling banquet halls or quiet upscale restaurants, Esco fosters a lively, approachable atmosphere where guests can eat, drink, listen to music, and socialize without the pressure of formality. This makes it especially suited for groups who prefer a relaxed vibe with spontaneous elements like live music or themed parties. Its niche focus on small plates also means everyone can find something to enjoy and share, increasing the sense of collective fun. Even though the space is on the smaller side, this intimacy works in favor of groups wanting more interactive and engaged experiences. For those seeking a destination that balances food quality, social ambiance, and entertainment wrapped into one package, Esco Dallas stands out as a smart choice.
In summary, Esco Dallas Restaurant and Tapas is a compelling venue for groups seeking an energetic but intimate place to gather in downtown Dallas. Its tapas menu, vibrant bar scene, live music events, and cozy atmosphere align well with social meetups involving friends and family. While some aspects like size and service may pose challenges for very large groups, the overall vibe and offerings make it ideal for small to medium-sized gatherings who want to eat well, drink creatively, and experience dynamic entertainment in one convenient location. Whether planning a casual night out, a special occasion, or brunch with friends, Esco Dallas provides an appealing space to rally, reconnect, and celebrate together.