When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Open Palette
Why Open Palette is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Open Palette, located within the Sheraton Dallas Hotel in downtown Dallas, stands out as a vibrant dining destination that artfully combines contemporary American cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. The restaurant offers a diverse menu showcasing gourmet burgers, fresh salads, and a variety of entrees crafted from organic and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Its cuisine is characterized by a bold and creative approach that reimagines everyday dishes with surprising twists, making every visit an exciting culinary adventure. With spacious seating arrangements and attentive service, Open Palette caters well to large groups and gatherings, making it an excellent choice for social outings, celebrations, and casual meetups alike. The venue also features a lively bar offering a wide variety of cocktails, local beers, and an extensive drink selection, providing patrons multiple ways to enjoy their time together. Conveniently situated in the Main Street District, the restaurant’s extended hours, patio seating, and options for takeout and delivery further enhance its appeal as a versatile spot to connect with friends throughout the day and evening. Whether starting the day with breakfast or unwinding over dinner and drinks, Open Palette presents an inviting environment where good food and good company intersect seamlessly.
Here's what people think of Open Palette
As of recent, Open Palette holds a 4-star rating based on 66 reviews.
User reviews of Open Palette reveal a generally positive consensus with an overall rating around 4.0 from 66 reviewers. Many patrons appreciate the quality and creativity of the food, highlighting the fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations that make the dining experience memorable. Positive reviews frequently mention the spacious and comfortable seating, suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger groups, as well as the attentive and friendly staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere. The diversity of the menu, including vegetarian options and a well-curated bar selection, is often praised, appealing to a broad range of tastes and dietary preferences. Additionally, guests enjoy the convenience of its downtown location within the Sheraton Dallas Hotel and the availability of ample parking with validation. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to inconsistency in certain meal experiences, with a few reviewers noting that lunch offerings fell short compared to breakfast or dinner. A few guests mention occasional slow service during peak hours, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these criticisms, the general sentiment remains favorable, recognizing Open Palette as a casual yet stylish venue that delivers good food and a pleasant ambiance. In conclusion, feedback suggests that Open Palette is a dependable choice for friendly get-togethers, offering quality American cuisine with a contemporary twist and a comfortable setting that invites guests to linger and enjoy.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wallid S
Food was good but not great. Had the ribeye asked for rare and it was almost well done. I’d say eat outside the hotel if you’re here a while.
Luis Mendez Montoya
The most amazing beef rib i have ever had. Falling from the bone and potato salad was great. Good service, restaurant’s Sr Sous Chef Ricardo went to my table just to ask about my day and my meal which it was big plus on this visit to Open Pallet. will miss Dallas for sure.
Travis Garcia
🌟🌟🌟 Open Palette - Sheraton Dallas “We tried Open Palette three times during our conference stay, and each visit was a bit of a roll of the dice. Some days, the wait staff was friendly and on it, while other times it felt like we’d been forgotten. The food followed suit—sometimes delicious, other times pretty forgettable. It’s convenient if you need a quick bite between conference sessions, but if there were more options nearby, I’d probably explore those. All in all, Open Palette does the job but isn’t a must-visit.”
Chely O.
The buffet was delightful, with a wide variety of delicious food options. The establishment was very clean, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. The coffee was particularly delicious, and the decor was charming, with many lovely accent plants.
Neil Netherly
On my 3rd day here in Dallas performing at the ACDA National Convention, I decided to take the advice of one of my colleagues and try the restaurant, Open Palette, right here in my hotel at the Sheraton. My colleague suggested the tortilla soup, which my awesome server, Jacqueline, also said was very delicious. I was not disappointed! This tasty soup with a spicy kick was just what I wanted. Now, please note that I'm originally from TX, and the kick in the spice of this delectable soup was not a problem for me. Perhaps avoid it if even mild to moderate heat from capsaicin is a problem for you. The presentation of the soup was, for me, a new experience. The chef brought out the solid in gradients (tortilla, cheese, and avocado) in the bowl, then poured to hot soup into the bowl. That way, the tortilla strips don't get soggy and maintain their crispness and crunch. My final course of my gastronomic lunch was the Pappardelle alla vodka. Wow! The pasta was perfect, and the vodka sauce, just wow! It's one of the best vodka sauces I've ever had. I also loved the little sweety drop peppers in the sauce. I added shrimp to this entrée as the protein to round out this tasty lunch. As my server Jacqueline said when I placed my order, "You are going to have such a delicious lunch!" She was so on point. Thanks, Jacqueline!
How to reach Open Palette
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Website: None
Why Open Palette may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Open Palette with your friends?
Open Palette offers an ideal setting for gathering with friends or family because it combines a welcoming atmosphere, diverse food options, and ample space for socializing. Nestled within a business hotel in downtown Dallas, it surprises guests with its creative comfort food and attentive service, yielding a pleasant experience whether you arrive for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant boasts a mix of artful American cuisine made from organic ingredients, alongside a full-service bar serving cocktails and local beers. This inclusive menu diversity ensures that everyone in a group, regardless of dietary preferences, will find something delicious to enjoy. Moreover, the spacious seating arrangements and inviting decor make it comfortable for parties to relax, converse, and celebrate special moments together. Open Palette’s location downtown also means ease of access for locals and visitors alike, simplifying meetup logistics. Whether you want a lively place for a casual brunch or a late-night snack after an event, the balance of quality, atmosphere, and convenience make Open Palette a compelling choice to rally your friends around.
What kind of food and drinks can groups expect at Open Palette?
Open Palette serves an extensive menu of American classics elevated with fresh, organic ingredients that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Guests can indulge in gourmet burgers, crisp fresh salads, and hearty entrées carefully prepared to satisfy group cravings. This variety is particularly well-suited to meet the needs of mixed groups, including vegetarians, who will appreciate the thoughtfully crafted vegetarian options available, such as unique salads and appetizers. Complementing the food, the venue offers a full bar where guests can enjoy craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated drink selection designed to please everyone, from casual drinkers to cocktail enthusiasts. For morning meetups, Open Palette’s breakfast offerings include freshly brewed Illy coffee paired with delicious pastries, creating a welcoming start to the day. Their late-night menu caters to those looking to extend their conversations with flavorful bites and drinks. This all-day versatility ensures your group can enjoy a meal or a casual drink whenever the mood strikes.
What activities or experiences make Open Palette perfect for a group meetup?
Beyond just food and drinks, Open Palette’s environment fosters connection and entertainment ideal for groups seeking both fun and relaxation. The restaurant’s ambiance blends pleasant decor with the energetic buzz of a business hotel setting, making it feel upscale yet approachable. For sports fans gathering with friends, the attached Draft Sports Bar & Lounge offers a spacious, 4,000-square-foot venue to watch games on big screens while enjoying local beers, elevating simple meetups into exciting shared experiences. The open layout and attentive service mean that groups won’t feel cramped or ignored, even during peak hours. For those interested in a more laid-back vibe, the speakeasy-style bar area offers a cozy retreat where guests can savor quality spirits in a sophisticated setting. This diversity of spaces within the same venue allows groups to tailor their experience, whether they want lively social interaction around sports or a quieter, intimate conversation spot. The availability of options under one roof is a major plus for any meetup looking to balance different group interests seamlessly.
Is Open Palette convenient for planning group events in downtown Dallas?
Open Palette’s prime downtown Dallas location within a major business hotel offers unmatched convenience for group meetups, whether you’re locals or visiting the city. Situated at 400 North Olive Street, it is easily accessible by car or public transportation, eliminating the hassle of complicated travel plans. The venue’s capacity to accommodate larger groups ensures that meetups don’t get split up or feel crowded, enabling everyone to stay together and enjoy the time collectively. Additionally, the restaurant’s hours—serving breakfast through late night—provide flexible timing that suits a variety of schedules. Being part of a hotel complex means there are additional amenities nearby, such as easy parking, other dining options, and even overnight accommodations for out-of-town guests. The seamless integration of dining, drinking, sports viewing, and socializing spaces under one roof simplifies coordination and enhances the overall meetup experience. Groups planning celebrations, casual hangouts, or business-related gatherings will find Open Palette an efficient and enjoyable venue fulfilling multiple needs.
What makes Open Palette a uniquely welcoming space for groups?
Open Palette’s commitment to service and thoughtful menu selections make it stand out as a welcoming venue for all kinds of groups. Guests frequently comment on the attentive and friendly staff who enhance the dining experience, helping groups feel valued and cared for throughout their visit. The venue’s design encourages relaxed gatherings, with enough room between tables to allow for easy conversation without intrusion from neighboring parties. Their focus on fresh, organic ingredients and the option for creative comfort food provides a novel dining experience that appeals to modern tastes while maintaining approachability. This balance makes it an excellent choice whether you’re meeting for a casual catch-up, a celebratory dinner, or a business lunch with colleagues. The variety of food and drink offerings, combined with a versatile setting—from bustling sports bar excitement to quiet corners for intimate chats—ensures that every group member will feel comfortable and included. Ultimately, Open Palette’s blend of quality, ambiance, and service creates a space where friends and families can truly enjoy each other’s company.
How does Open Palette support different types of group celebrations?
Whether your gathering is a lively birthday party, a relaxing family reunion, or a casual friend meetup, Open Palette equips your event with all the right elements. The spacious layout can accommodate groups without feeling overcrowded, and the restaurant staff is experienced in supporting larger parties, often tailoring service to suit special occasions. Their menu flexibility allows customization to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences, while the bar’s extensive drink selection offers celebratory options from champagne to craft cocktails. For sports enthusiasts, booking around game times provides a thrilling backdrop adding excitement to any celebration. The location within a downtown hotel also means easy coordination for multi-activity days, with opportunities for groups to extend celebrations into overnight stays or conference events nearby. Their commitment to quality service and creative dishes helps ensure your event feels special, memorable, and hassle-free. Open Palette’s capacity to meet varied group needs makes it a standout choice for hosting social gatherings.
What do reviewers say about their group experiences at Open Palette?
Reviews reflect a generally positive experience at Open Palette, highlighting the quality of food, service, and atmosphere as strong contributors to enjoyable group visits. Many praise the breakfast offerings and the comfortable environment for lunch or dinner, noting the creative comfort food and pleasant decor as unexpected delights within a business hotel. While there are occasional comments about understaffing and mixed lunch experiences, the overall consensus leans toward recommending the venue for casual meetups and relaxed dining. Guests also note the convenience of location and the attentive service as positives that enhance group dynamics. The full bar and sports viewing options receive mention as attractive features for groups seeking a lively social scene or a place to unwind after downtown activities. Though no venue is without minor critiques, the established 4.0 rating across 66 reviews suggests that most visitors find Open Palette a worthwhile destination for group gatherings.
What practical tips can enhance your group meetup at Open Palette?
To maximize your enjoyment and ensure smooth planning when rallying your friends at Open Palette, consider a few practical tips. First, because the venue can become busy, especially during peak meal times and sporting events, reserving a table or calling ahead is recommended for larger groups. Taking advantage of their diverse menu by reviewing options online beforehand can help manage orders efficiently and accommodate any dietary restrictions within the group. If your meetup includes sports fans, timing your visit to coincide with game broadcasts in the Draft Sports Bar & Lounge can add a dynamic element to your event. For quieter conversations or intimate gatherings, asking for seating away from the main bar area will help maintain a relaxed ambiance. Finally, if your group desires a longer stay or overnight accommodations, leveraging the hotel’s facilities ensures a convenient full experience. With these preparations, your meetup at Open Palette is likely to be comfortable, fun, and memorable.