Knife Dallas

Chef John Tesar’s passion for beef knows no bounds, as evidenced by his steakhouse and an offshoot specializing in all things burgers. The best—and simplest—of the bunch is the Ozersky (named after late food writer and longtime friend Josh Ozersky), which applies classic stylings to the humble sandwich with only four components, a fresh beef patty, thinly sliced red onions, American cheese, and a squishy white bun. It’s everything you want (including the ability to make it a double), and nothing you don’t.
How to book: Call 214-443-9339 for take-out.

John Tesar’s steakhouse inside the Highland Hotel is once again serving lunch after a pandemic-induced hiatus. This time around, the focus is on burgers, and the restaurant is even adopting the moniker of its Knife Burger offshoot between the hours of 11:30 am and 2 pm. Expect favorites like the Ozersky (a classic with American cheese and red onion on a squishy white bun), plus a few new additions like a Patty Melt, 44 Farms Hot Dog, and the Knuckle Sandwich, a hoagie with lobster knuckle meat and garlic aioli. The lunch menu also features a selection of steaks along with lighter fare like salads and soups.

Top Chef contender John Tesar’s signature steakhouse gave its already-nice patio a breezy makeover in 2020. Grab a seat outdoors and request one of his famous burgers, a flight of bacon, or a 240-day Dry-aged Bone-in Ribeye with a glass of wine from the 300-strong list. With each passing minute, you’ll sink into the surroundings and forget where you really are—a hotel restaurant at a busy intersection.