When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Smoky Rose
Why Smoky Rose is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Smoky Rose is a standout Tex-Que restaurant located in East Dallas, offering a perfect gathering place for friends seeking an inviting, vibrant atmosphere paired with exceptional food. Established in 2016, this restaurant prides itself on its wood-burning smoker where meats are smoked low and slow to ensure rich and deep flavors. The emphasis on high-quality ingredients and scratch kitchen preparation results in consistently delicious dishes like smoked brisket, chicken enchiladas, and other regional Texas specialties. Guests love relaxing on the dog-friendly patio, open year-round, which creates an open, airy environment to enjoy live music on weekends and soak in the lively East Dallas vibes. Whether it’s brunch or dinner, Smoky Rose skillfully blends approachable smokehouse comfort with chef-driven refinement, appealing to casual diners and food enthusiasts alike. The restaurant’s proximity to the Dallas Arboretum makes it a popular escape to enjoy a meal while taking in pleasant surroundings. Beyond food, the welcoming staff and comfortable setting have made Smoky Rose a notable spot for social meetups, pet-friendly outings, and memorable shared meals.
Here's what people think of Smoky Rose
As of recent, Smoky Rose holds a 4.1-star rating based on 3027 reviews.
Reviews from customers highlight Smoky Rose's standout qualities and some areas of improvement. Positive reviews commonly praise the flavorful, expertly smoked meats that define the restaurant’s core appeal. Diners frequently rave about the quality of the brisket, ribs, and chicken enchiladas, emphasizing the smoky depth and tenderness achieved through the wood-burning smoker. The atmosphere also receives accolades, particularly the spacious, dog-friendly patio and the relaxed yet polished dining environment. Many commend the attentive staff and appreciate the seasonal, chef-crafted dishes that complement the barbecue offerings. Small touches like weekend live music and the welcoming vibe for pet owners further elevate the experience and contribute to customer loyalty. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional service slowdowns during peak hours and variation in wait times, which can impact the overall dining flow. A few customers have expressed desires for a broader drink menu or enhancements in dessert options. Despite these criticisms, most reviews remain favorable, noting these issues as minor in the context of the overall quality. In conclusion, the customer feedback portrays Smoky Rose as a highly enjoyable Tex-Que destination with consistently flavorful food, a warm community feel, and a setting that invites repeated visits for socializing and relaxing moments with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dan Morton
After spending a beautiful day at the Dallas Arboretum, we stopped in at Smoky Rose—conveniently located just across the street—and we’re so glad we did. While we originally chose it for the location, it turned out to be an outstanding dining experience from start to finish. We kicked things off with the pork belly burnt ends, and they were phenomenal—crispy, caramelized, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. A perfect way to start the meal. For entrées, we had the pulled pork quesadilla, smoked chicken enchiladas, and brisket street tacos. Every dish delivered rich, smoky flavor and was clearly crafted with care. The pulled pork quesadilla was cheesy and satisfying with a great smoky balance. The enchiladas had a deep, savory flavor and just the right amount of spice. The brisket tacos were packed with juicy, flavorful meat and topped just right—not overloaded, but still super satisfying. To go along with the food, we tried the frozen Blackberry Bourbon Smash and a sangria. Both cocktails were refreshing and well-crafted—the bourbon smash was bold and icy-cool, while the sangria was fruity and easy to sip. Smoky Rose isn’t just about convenience—it’s a true hidden gem with excellent food, great service, and a chill, welcoming vibe. Highly recommend!
Luke
I tried this place twice to give it a fair chance. The first time I went I had the “Brisket & Cheddar Melt” sandwich and a “Jalapeño-Cheddar Sausage” with Mac and cheese as the side. I went a second time to see if I could do any better than my first visit so I tried “The Casa Linda Cuban” and a side of their ribs. Brisket & Cheddar Melt - It was above average. 6/10. Nothing remarkable. The meat overpowered the cheese. Didn’t taste cheese at all. House Mac - Above average 6/10. I prefer more pronounced cheeses but they use a more mild cheese here. Jalapeño-Cheddar Sausage - Delicious. 9/10. Perhaps the best sausage I’ve had ever. I’m not even super big into sausage. The Casa Linda Cuban - Above average. 6/10. Like other things the meat was primarily what I tasted as it was the most pronounced flavor. Very dry sandwich. Ribs - awful. 1/10. The worst ribs I’ve ever had. The ribs have the unfortunate death combo… dry and tough. The sauce here couldn’t even save the ribs. Whoever cooks these ribs should go to any of the top BBQ places in Austin to see what good ribs are like. Overall, I think this place is overpriced and they have a way more misses than hits. No need for me to ever come back.
Maureen E. Barnes
Friendly service, really yummy BBQ, and a great location. This is our second visit to Smokey Rose, and I have only good things to say. They have a great outdoor seating area when the weather is nice. On this visit, we had deviled eggs, a brisket sandwich with ranchero beans, and smoked turkey with potato salad. Everything was delicious! The pics speak for themselves. Such a great location, we'll be back!
Miranda
Enjoyed Saturday lunch here after a last minute plan change, they were able to get us in easily lthough the place was very busy. The SO has bad seasonal allergies so requested an inside table with the pollen being so high lately, but they said they are only sitting people outside. Food was good, but pretty standard flavor wise. Probably a good place to eat after a day in the arboretum but we wouldn't travel over again for it.
Thanh Thu Nguyen
The restaurant is really beautiful and I love the patio view. Unfortunately i would not come back because the food is disappointed me. My chicken fried brisket was really oily and it was fatty. There’s no flavor in mash potatoes
How to reach Smoky Rose
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Why Smoky Rose may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Smoky Rose with your friends?
Smoky Rose offers a unique blend of a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere that makes it an excellent venue for gathering with friends or family. Located in Dallas, Texas, this eatery combines the charm of a beautifully decorated space with a lively vibe that invites socializing and enjoyment. Whether you prefer to sit inside surrounded by tasteful décor or outside on the expansive patio under the open sky, Smoky Rose provides an inviting setting tailored for group meetups. The restaurant offers a full bar along with a variety of cocktails that guests can enjoy while catching up and sharing good moments. Although its barbecue offerings might not satisfy the purist craving for traditional brisket, the overall menu is diverse enough to please a broad taste palette, making it suitable for different dietary preferences within a group. The combination of good drinks, tasty food, and thoughtful ambiance encourages long, relaxed visits, ideal for creating memorable social experiences. With a rating of 4.1 based on over 3,000 reviews, it strikes a balance between casual dining and a vibrant, fun environment where groups can rally comfortably.
What activities and experiences make Smoky Rose perfect for a group meetup?
Smoky Rose excels as a place where groups can engage in various enjoyable activities beyond just eating and drinking. The restaurant features large televisions throughout the space, perfect for watching sports games together—a natural gathering point for friends who want to cheer on their teams while enjoying food and drinks. The presence of live music at times adds an extra layer of entertainment, though the volume levels might require some moderation to facilitate conversation. The expansive outdoor patio, equipped to handle larger groups, invites guests to linger over cocktails and snacks in an open-air environment. Smoky Rose offers a broad range of menu items that cater to different tastes, from casual appetizers like onion rings and smoked meats to unique cocktails such as the “Smoky Rose” drink, making it simple for everyone to find something they enjoy. The space’s ambiance, described as both charming and lively, naturally encourages social interaction, so groups can comfortably engage in conversation, celebrations, or casual hangouts. This versatility combined with attentive staff who can handle group orders and occasional requests makes Smoky Rose a favorable spot for friends’ meetups or family outings.
How does the food and drink selection contribute to the group experience at Smoky Rose?
Food and drink selections at Smoky Rose play a significant role in making it a great venue for groups. While it markets itself partially on barbecue, some reviews indicate that the brisket might not meet hardcore barbecue aficionados’ expectations, but the menu offers plenty of other appealing choices. The smokehouse onion stack, burger options, and a variety of appetizers have been positively highlighted, providing crowd-pleasers for most tastes. Drinks are clearly an important feature here, especially the bar’s signature cocktails like the Smoky Rose cocktail, which many guests find delightful and perfect for social drinking. For groups that enjoy pairing their meals with a thoughtful beverage selection, the bartenders can craft cocktails that add fun and flavor to the gathering. The full bar ensures everyone can find their preferred drink, whether it’s a beer, wine, or a creative mixed drink. Moreover, the food typically arrives in shareable portions or plates that encourage communal eating, fostering a sense of togetherness. This array of food and beverage options helps accommodate diverse preferences and dietary needs, enhancing everyone’s dining experience and making the occasion feel special.
What makes the ambiance and service at Smoky Rose suitable for social gatherings?
The ambiance at Smoky Rose is frequently praised for its stylish and comfortable setting that appeals to a wide age range, making it suitable for gatherings from young adults to older family members. The décor is carefully curated to create a warm yet contemporary environment that adds to the excitement of meeting up in a place that feels both special and inviting. The outdoor patio offers a relaxed vibe perfect for sunny afternoons or mild evenings, allowing groups to enjoy conversation in the fresh air without feeling rushed. Inside, the space is arranged to accommodate large groups without feeling cramped, encouraging a social atmosphere. However, some reviews note occasional service hiccups like slow drink delivery or food ordering mistakes, which seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. Despite these isolated issues, staff members generally aim to provide helpful and personal service, with management sometimes stepping in to rectify oversights, such as comping drinks or promptly addressing concerns. This commitment to making guests feel welcomed and valued contributes positively to the overall experience, helping groups feel comfortable and appreciated during their time together.
Why is Smoky Rose a recommended choice for hosting events or celebrations with friends?
Smoky Rose’s combination of attractive interior design, versatile food and drink options, and accommodating service makes it an excellent choice for hosting events or celebrations with friends or family. The venue’s size and layout support larger groups, allowing guests to celebrate birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers without feeling constrained. The restaurant’s proximity to popular Dallas attractions, such as the nearby Arboretum, makes it a convenient and appealing spot for pre- or post-event dining. Its festive yet casual atmosphere encourages relaxed enjoyment and social bonding, essential elements for any successful celebration. The full bar and creative cocktail list ensure that celebratory moments can be marked with specialty drinks, contributing to the festive mood. While the food might not be specialized in every barbecue classic, the wide menu variety ensures there’s something for everyone, reducing worries over differing tastes or dietary restrictions within a group. Furthermore, the overall ambiance, complete with tasteful decor and friendly staff, fosters an experience where friends and family can create lasting memories together. This combination of factors underlies Smoky Rose’s reputation as a reliable and enjoyable venue for social gatherings.