The phrase ‘dinner and a show’ is often associated with a simple dinner-and-movie experience, but there’s a new trend in town that promises so much more. Welcome to the world of supper clubs, where dining meets entertainment in a vibrant and immersive atmosphere.
These modern supper clubs are taking the concept of dinner and a show to new heights, featuring everything from aerial performances and comedy acts to interactive speakeasies right inside restaurants. It’s not just about the food anymore; it’s about creating unforgettable experiences for guests.
Though supper clubs have been part of American culture since Prohibition, the current wave of supper clubs in North Texas offers a fresh take on this age-old concept. The Bagdad Supper Club in Grand Prairie, which opened in 1928, is often cited as one of the first supper clubs in the region. With its expansive dance floor and capacity for 450 guests, it became a staple of nightlife in the area, drawing in a plethora of notable performers.
Even after the Bagdad closed, Dallas has continued to support the supper club tradition. Popular spots such as Sambuca, which operated from 1991 until its closure in 2018, showcased the combination of dining and nightlife, while others like Don’t Tell Supper Club and Clover Club came and went. Yet, new establishments are popping up, fully embracing the bold and adventurous spirit of this dining genre.
One notable example is Winsome Prime, located in Trinity Groves. Co-owner Rob Wright describes the venue as a place for guests to ‘dine, mingle, and entertain.’ Alongside a main dining room, Winsome Prime boasts a private speakeasy and a lounge featuring live music and eclectic DJs.
The restaurant’s décor has a luxurious feel, with a nod to the post-Prohibition era. Guests can enjoy a curated menu that includes everything from classic steaks and lobster tail to sushi and vegan options, all set to live performances of jazz, neo-soul, and R&B. Wright comments that patrons love the idea of enjoying a meal while being entertained.
After dinner, the inviting atmosphere of the speakeasy encourages guests to linger. With its soft lighting and plush seating, it’s a great spot to sip cocktails and relax, complemented by a menu of small bites for late-night cravings and a DJ or specialty mix playing on select nights.
In Frisco, The Glen is another establishment aiming to elevate the supper club experience. Co-owner Derek Simms describes The Glen as ‘elevated experiential dining,’ designed to transport guests into an extraordinary atmosphere.
The interior is rich and theatrical, combining lush textures, dramatic florals, and deep jewel tones with striking lighting. The menu is equally extravagant, offering dishes like garlic and herb lamb chops, lobster pasta, and even oyster flights. But the true magic lies in the unexpected moments — fire performers on the patio, aerialists above the crowd, and high-energy DJs.
Simms emphasizes that these surprise elements are pivotal in keeping guests fully engaged, creating an unforgettable ambiance. On Sundays, the venue hosts ‘Cirque du Champagne Brunch,’ adding a whimsical touch to dining experiences. The Glen’s name itself is inspired by the painting ‘The Monarch of the Glen,’ evoking a sense of an ethereal retreat.
As the Dallas culinary scene continues to evolve, new supper club concepts are on the horizon. Delilah, a stylish supper club known for its locations in Las Vegas, West Hollywood, and Miami, is slated to debut in the Design District. This chic venue will feature three private rooms and stages for burlesque and live music performances, coupled with an enticing menu that highlights the restaurant’s Famous Chicken Tenders and impressive tomahawk steaks.
Delilah will also embrace a no-photo policy, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience without distractions from social media. Initially projected to open in 2024, Delilah’s launch has been moved to later this year.
Similarly, The Oxford Rose in Uptown, which had planned a spring opening, aims to offer a range of entertainment options alongside dining, creating a richly immersive experience for patrons.
Beyond grand concepts, several local establishments have been experimenting with limited-time entertainment offerings. Bourbon & Banter, a subterranean speakeasy, has already hosted themed dinner events, such as a three-course dinner paired with a murder mystery. Other restaurants, like Catbird, Asian Mint, and Nikki Greek Bistro & Lounge, have incorporated periodic entertainment, pairing meals with lessons in mahjong or hosting musical performances.
While the blend of dining and entertainment is not a novel idea, its resurgence in the Dallas area is unmistakable. Whether through permanent venues or special events, the allure of combining culinary delights with engaging performances is a trend that seems set to flourish in the years to come.
As Dallas embraces this new era of supper clubs, diners can look forward to immersing themselves in experiences that go far beyond a simple meal. When the craving for whimsy and escapism arises, the options appear limitless.
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