
The Charles
A stylish, upscale Italian restaurant in Dallas offering wood-fired classics and a chic speakeasy bar. Expect exceptional service.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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The Charles

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stylish, upscale Italian restaurant in Dallas offering wood-fired classics and a chic speakeasy bar. Expect exceptional service.
"Experience exceptional Italian cuisine interpreted through a Texas lens with impeccable service."
Make Reservations
Securing a spot is recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
Request Mr. Declan
Ask for Mr. Declan's section for an elevated and knowledgeable dining experience.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
$$$
Phone
(469) 917-9000
Address
1632 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207, USA
Website
thecharlesdallas.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wood-Fired Italian Classics
Experience Italian cuisine with a Texas twist, featuring wood-fired dishes and housemade pastas that burst with flavor.

Exceptional Service
Impeccable service is a hallmark, with staff like Mr. Declan praised for their knowledge and personal touch.

Chic Speakeasy Vibe
Discover a hidden 'secret bar' past the kitchen, offering a unique speakeasy atmosphere for drinks and conversation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
Securing a spot is recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
Request Mr. Declan
Ask for Mr. Declan's section for an elevated and knowledgeable dining experience.
Explore the Secret Bar
Don't miss the unique speakeasy vibe found in the lounge behind the kitchen.
Mindful Portions
Portions can be smaller than expected; consider ordering shareable meat dishes.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
Securing a spot is recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
Request Mr. Declan
Ask for Mr. Declan's section for an elevated and knowledgeable dining experience.
Explore the Secret Bar
Don't miss the unique speakeasy vibe found in the lounge behind the kitchen.
Mindful Portions
Portions can be smaller than expected; consider ordering shareable meat dishes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Charles is praised for its stylish ambiance, exceptional service, and inventive Italian-Texas fusion cuisine. Diners rave about the attentive staff, the chic atmosphere perfect for dates, and dishes like housemade pastas and wood-fired items. However, some guests note that portion sizes can be small for the price, and a few have experienced uneven food quality.
"The Charles – A Dining Experience to Remember
If you find yourself in the Dallas Design District and are in search of an unforgettable Italian dining experience, The Charles is an absolute must-visit. I was extremely impressed with every aspect of this restaurant—from the warm ambience to the exceptional food—but what truly elevated the entire evening was the outstanding service provided by our waiter, Mr. Declan.
Declan is not just a server—he is the food ambassador of The Charles. His knowledge of the menu was remarkable, his recommendations spot-on, and his kind demeanor made the entire experience feel both elegant and welcoming. In all my dining experiences, I can confidently say Declan was the best server I’ve ever had. Every dish he recommended turned out to be a showstopper, from the appetizers to the main courses and even dessert.
The food at The Charles is nothing short of spectacular—each plate was thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is chic yet cozy, with just the right amount of energy and charm that makes you want to linger a little longer.
I sincerely enjoyed the food, the ambience, and the time I spent at The Charles. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the Design District, I highly recommend making a reservation here. And if you’re lucky enough to be seated in Declan’s section—consider your evening made."
Soner Tarim
"Ok. Another night in Dallas and another amazing restaurant experience. This time, we tried The Charles and based on the reviews, we were expecting something good and we were not disappointed. The service was excellent and accommodating even when we requested to be moved to a more comfortable table. The couple behind us were have some sort of amazing date and I’m pretty sure their dessert order was themselves. Too bad for them because the desserts are fabulous and I should mention the main course was fabulous too. Is it expensive? I guess but the best things in life are often expensive. Would I come here again? We will find out when I come back to Dallas in a few weeks. 😉
Michael Delehanty
Compass Real Estate"
Michael Delehanty Real Estate
"Restaurant week menu tastes great. Portion size is smaller than regular menu but just right for us because we don't want too much food. They offered an extra appetizer for my celebration. The cheese and olive gift is also really yummy. All in all, loved the food."
Hanna Tong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended to ensure you can secure a table at this popular dining destination. Walk-ins are accepted but may have a wait.
The Charles is a stylish and upscale restaurant, so dressing in smart casual attire is recommended to match the ambiance.
Portion sizes are generally on the smaller side, often meant for sharing. Consider ordering multiple dishes or larger meat options for sharing.
Yes, there is a 'secret bar' or lounge past the kitchen that offers a speakeasy vibe, and you can often grab a drink there, sometimes while waiting for a table.
The service is consistently praised as exceptional, with staff like Mr. Declan known for their knowledge, attentiveness, and personal touch.
While the menu focuses on Italian classics, some dishes may be adaptable, and there are often vegetable-forward options available. It's best to inquire directly.
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A menu of smaller plates presents the sweet opportunity to share multiple dishes and enjoy a leisurely meal at this self-appointed “glam Italian” spot. Start things off with one of its well-prepared cocktail while you make your food selections. Make sure to sample the signature housemade Cappelloni with White Ragu and plan to end the evening at the adjoining Bar Charles for an extensive Champagne collection.How to book: Walk-ins are accepted, but to ensure a spot, call 469-917-9000.
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The Charles, located in Dallas’ trendy Design District, offers an intimate Italian dining experience that is ideal for a romantic dinner in Dallas. The atmosphere is set with soft, dim lighting that dances off the sleek marble accents and high ceilings, while plush seating and elegant décor create the perfect backdrop for a memorable night. Celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual date night, the menu is a delight, featuring indulgent dishes like fire-roasted lasagna and decadent lobster ravioli.
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Duro Hospitality maintains a roster of hits, but it all started with The Charles, the group’s first restaurant and still one of its best. On most nights, the fun, lively dining room feels like the place to be, as guests clink glasses and plates hit tables, filled with food described as Italian cuisine interpreted through a Texas lens. Dishes range from oysters, charred octopus and grilled halibut to lemon-ricotta gnudi, smoked oxtail pappardelle and a massive Wagyu tomahawk ribeye.
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One of the Design District's most recent additions is The Charles, a renaissance-chic eatery featuring a lineup of housemade pastas and wood-fire-grilled fish and steak. Owners Chas Martin and Chef J Chastain use classic Italian fare as inspiration for the menu, but the dishes stray from the traditional. Expect to see the likes of risotto made with ancient grains (farro, quinoa, and kamut), fennel crusted pork chops and olive oil poached halibut with broccolini pesto.
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Located in the heart of the Design District, Shodo serve traditional sushi including bluefin tuna tower and the Shodo roll made with lobster, A5 wagyu, and truffle scallion. Shodos specializes in creating unforgettable moments for your most cherished occasions. Whether you're planning a corporate soirée, an intimate family gathering, a rehearsal dinner, or any other special event, we have the expertise to make it extraordinary.
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A gorgeous homage to Italian design and cuisine, the Charles is one of the hottest restaurants in town right now. Helmed by longtime Dallas restaurateur Chas Martin (the “Charles” in question), it serves gourmet dishes ranging from charred octopus with cannellini puree and mint pesto to lemon ricotta gnudi with brown butter honey. Factor in its romantic speakeasy-style cocktail bar, and you have a guaranteed date night winner.
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It seems like “Charles” is being whispered all over Dallas these days with three brother restaurants— the Charles, Mister Charles, El Carlos Elegante—getting attention. The Charles is the sibling who fled to Italy on his study-abroad trip and brought that sophistication back home. Try the house-made burrata with a glass of Etna bianco or savor the short rib ravioli alongside a rich and earthy Bolgheri blend.
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Design District restaurant The Charles is known for its excellent menu, ingenious design and dimly lit ambiance, but it doesn't get enough credit for its great restrooms. These are the safe havens where we regroup ourselves before heading back to the warfare known as first dates, not to mention the best spot to take selfies with some privacy. The Charles' toilets happen to be the best seat in the house.
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It’s hard not to have a good time at this “maximalist” decorated destination restaurant, if you can get in. Luckily, behind the main space is a newer edition, Bar Charles, where you can grab a cocktail in the dimly lit, swanky room as you wait. The Italian-ish cuisine of The Charles includes shareables, pastas, and grilled entrées like the pork blade chop and beef bavette.
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The Charles is a beautiful, upscale restaurant where you and your date can enjoy a delicious Italian dinner. Located in the Design District of Dallas, this eatery has an amazing menu full of delicious (vegan and non-vegan) food and drinks. If you really want to impress your date, take them to the champagne bar at the back of the restaurant.
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The most posh, over-the-top, and indulgent Italian spot in town is still one of the best. The Charles bounces between obscure but authentic regional traditions (focaccia di Recco) and more familiar classics (grilled branzino). There are plenty of extravagances—ask about the rotating pot pie special—but the best one of all is the atmosphere.
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Located in the Dallas Design District, The Charles is elegant and the Chef and staff behind the restaurant liken it to classic “Italian food seen through a Texan lens”. Must-try dishes include Focaccia di Charles, the Pork Blade Chop and Charred Octopus. The menu features salad entrées, seafood, meats, vegetables and pastas.
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Address: 1632 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207Phone:+1 (469) 917-9000Website:thecharlesdallas.comDetails: Restaurant. The Charles in Dallas offers an exceptional dining experience with attentive staff and an inviting atmosphere. From the valet greeting to the warm welcome at the door, every detail is well-orchestrated.
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Go for: Exquisite Italian food and expertly designed interior!. Want to feel like you’re having a meal on an island somewhere dreamy and remote?. The meals are Italian but the private room located in The Charles reminds us of upscale, tropical oasis with exotic plant prints adorning the walls giving us major Miami vibes.
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The Charles is an Italian-inspired eatery serving sophisticated Italian fare with a twist. Meats and fish come off the wood-fired grill and the house-made pasta program is thoroughly impressive. The ambiance is chic with modern Italian décor interspersed with 18th century pieces and antique chandeliers.
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1632 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207469-917-9000 Visit Website. The next restaurant I want to mention is The Charles Dallas, found on Market Center Boulevard, in the Design District. This upscale and stylish space serves amazing wood-fired Italian dishes with a Texan twist.
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Find dishes full of flavors like juicy steaks and fresh seafood, all from local sources. Every taste shows the city's passion for great food, all while cool music plays. Why we love it: The Charles is more than just a place to eat; it's where great times happen.
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The Charles offers delivery, takeouts, sit-down dining, drive-thru, and indoor dining. It’s a classy location for groups, and it has ample private lot parking and valet parking. It has a healthy score of 92/100, and it is wheelchair accessible.
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This Design District restaurant serves some of the best pastas in the city. And in keeping with its neighborhood, the ornate interiors — collaboration between Chas Martin, Sees Design, and chef J. Chastain — may be as notable as the cuisine.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (52 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (5.0/5), Value (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: Italian, American- Price: $$$$- Address: 1632 Market Center Blvd, Dallas, TX 75207-3916- Read more on Tripadvisor
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The restaurants aren't Italian, but the best pasta dishes in all of Dallas are at Homewood and The Grape. Lucia, Macellaio, Sprezza (specifically for Roman cuisine), and Mille Lire are great too.
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The Charles is a funky Design District spot with low lighting and good cocktails. Lemon ricotta gnudi is worth the derail-your-diet order. But whatever you do, don't miss the meatballs!
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Longtime Dallas chef Chas Martin - the Charles himself - brings a sophisticated nightly menu. Indulge at Bar Charles with a bottle of bubbles and light snacks to end the night.
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The cuisine at The Charles is far from humble, and neither is their pie, which is why it should be on your list of things to eat in Dallas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit