Ella Dine + Drinks has recently opened its doors in Preston Hollow Village, taking over the space formerly occupied by Chído Taco Lounge. The bistro, which opened in June, aims to fill a dining gap in the neighborhood with an American-style bistro experience that is often found in areas like Downtown Dallas or Bishop Arts.
Owner Blaine McGowan explains that the team recognized a need for this type of establishment in Preston Hollow.
“The restaurants that are similar to what we do are all down toward Downtown Dallas and Bishop Arts, and we really felt like this neighborhood needed something like this,” McGowan stated.
Despite its unique offerings, McGowan acknowledges that Ella’s location presents a challenge. The bistro is situated in an area where diners do not typically transition from dinner to a bar for drinks.
To counter this, Ella strives to create a comprehensive experience by integrating dining, cocktails, and a hidden speakeasy, the Customs Agave Lounge, all under one roof.
“What we do really well here is we provide all of that in one spot,” he added.
At the helm of the beverage program is Julian Shaffer, the beverage director and general manager. Shaffer, who earned the 2024 Michelin Guide Texas Exceptional Cocktails award during his time as bar manager at Rye on Lower Greenville, is developing a cocktail menu designed to cater to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates.
Diners can look forward to a diverse cocktail selection, including the Raspberry Fields at $19, featuring salted raspberries and cocoa butter, and a tequila soda for the same price, crafted with salsa verde and whey. Classic cocktails are also on offer, such as a martini priced at $18, which can be enhanced with a caviar bump for an additional $15.
The culinary offerings at Ella reflect the artistic touch of Executive Chef Kyle Farr, known for his previous role at the now-closed Boulevardier in Bishop Arts. The menu offers a modern spin on classic French bistro fare, showcasing dishes like mussels served in a casino butter sourced from Boulevardier.
Farr also revisits some personal favorites, including the braised pork cheek at $30, accompanied by an orange jus made from deglazing with Fanta, a nod to Boulevardier’s beloved root beer-braised pork chop.
While honoring his culinary past, Chef Farr has crafted a menu that embodies his distinct style. He draws inspiration from Dallas’s vibrant food scene and the preferences of its diners.
The menu tantalizingly hints at Mediterranean flavors with offerings such as a hummus starter complemented by grilled pita and marinated olives for $14. One of McGowan’s personal favorites is the chicken entrée priced at $28, which features orzo, kale, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and harissa, reflecting Farr’s childhood memories of Lebanese cuisine from a grandmother.
Beyond the culinary elements, the restaurant’s name holds personal significance for McGowan. It is named after his 10-year-old daughter, Ella Francis, who affectionately goes by Frankie.
“I wanted something that was meaningful and has a purpose behind it and something that would really just make me smile every time I think about it, every time I see it, and it does every time I walk up. It makes me think of her,” McGowan explained.
Frankie is sometimes seen assisting staff on Friday nights, and her involvement brings a sense of pride to both her and her father.
“She always wants to be a part of it, and it makes her proud as well,” McGowan voiced.
Although Ella has only been in operation for a couple of months, McGowan has expressed satisfaction with the positive reception from the community.
With encouraging reviews from patrons and positive press coverage, sales are heading in the right direction. However, he adds,
“If you ever meet a restaurateur that tells you they don’t want to be busier, they’re lying.”
Looking forward, McGowan and his team aim to establish a balance between becoming a beloved neighborhood staple and attracting new visitors eager to experience Ella for the first time.
Despite aspirations for awards, McGowan emphasizes that the primary goal remains to create a convivial experience for guests.
“We all love making people smile, and we love seeing people have a good time,” he concluded.
Ella Dine + Drinks is located at 7949 Walnut Hill Lane #130 and can be contacted at 214.242.8853 or through their website at elladtx.com.
image source from：prestonhollow
