Local Gems of Lower/Lowest Greenville

Dallas has a BIG reputation for supersized city limits, but to get to know the real Dallas, you must explore the exciting neighborhoods that bring personality, diversity and unique character to its big city landscape. Stretching down Greenville Avenue is a neighborhood so charming it would give Stars Hollow a run for its money, complete with pumpkins piled everywhere in the fall and twinkle lights on every tree during the holiday season. The Lower/Lowest Greenville district is home to flourishing shops, restaurants and a real sense of community. Anchored by a Trader Joe's, the rest of the neighborhood is made of locally owned establishments that have become beloved by residents and visitors alike. Here are a few of the special gems you must include on your next trip:

Village Baking Co

French-inspired and Texas-made, the Boulangerie at Village Baking Co is undoubtedly one of the most treasured spots in the neighborhood. Step inside this quaint café and you will wonder if you have just teleported to France. The French farmhouse inspired décor and the rows of mouthwatering pastries are curated with extreme care, an eye for authenticity and a simple loveliness. It is recommended to arrive when they open as the case of croissants and other assorted treats, such as freshly made quiche and the seasonal kouign aman, tends to empty rather quickly.

The Granada Theater + Sundown at the Granada

Originally built as a post-WWII movie theatre in 1946, the Granada Theater has been a mainstay in the North Texas entertainment scene. Reinvented in 2004, the theater took on new life as a live music venue, providing North Texas with renowned acts such as The Black Keys, Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers and more with plenty of exciting things in store for each new generation of music lovers. The partnering farm-to-table restaurant, Sundown at the Granada, provides the perfect place to stop and grab dinner and drinks before walking next door to take in a performance at the theater. They also put on smaller concerts, roof top movie viewings and other community-focused events all year long.

Leela's Wine Bar

While it has only been part of the Lowest Greenville landscape for a couple of years, Leela's Wine Bar has quickly become a neighborhood staple. Its cozy and vibrant atmosphere is in perfect keeping with the rest of the district. Leela's bright white brick exterior is illuminated, not only by the neon sign bearing its name, but also by the warm and inviting atmosphere it contains. Whether you pick a seat at the bar or gather around a table, your party should prepare for an impeccable dining experience. Oysters, tapas and a wall of wine taps guarantee that there is something for everyone no matter their taste.

Terilli's

A long-standing presence in Lower Greenville, Terilli's Italian restaurant is a much-loved date night hot spot and attracts a beautiful after-five crowd as well. The dimly lit, sultry atmosphere provides just the right mood and when the live pianist begins to play, you'll have fallen in love before your food arrives. Known for the 'Italchos,' an Italian take on a Mexican favorite, Terilli's menu is the perfect place to peruse and indulge. Their wine list is almost as extensive as their martini menu and each pasta dish begs for just one more bite. For a fancy-feeling happy hour or a dinner you won't soon forget, stop in and see why Terilli's is so loved on Lower Greenville.

Social Mechanics

More than a gym, Social Mechanics provides exactly as their name suggests: a social and fun atmosphere paired with a workout regimen that will definitely burn the calories acquired from the amazing dinner you indulged in the night before. Friendly faces and competition await at this functional fitness joint. Every class is beginner friendly and they offer drop-in rates, so if you are in town weekend and need a quick sweat sesh or want to attend several classes on your vacation, anything is possible. Workout and walk away with new friends at this Lowest Greenville gem of a gym.

Botolino

While Dallas and Italy appear to have little in common, one visit to Botolino Gelato Artigianale and you will soon realize they are a match made in heaven. When Carlos 'Botolo' Gattini moved with his mother and father from Tuscany to Dallas, he took with him his grandmother's recipes and a desire to bring authentic Italian flavor to Texas. Using his grandmother's traditional methods and nothing but freshest, locally sourced ingredients, Botolino's creates perfect Italian gelato every single day. Admittedly influenced by his tenure in Texas, Gattini describes his style as 'Italo Texano.' A true taste of Italy in the middle of Texas is exactly why Botolino Gelato Artigianale has captured the hearts and taste buds of Lowest Greenville.