Chef Mario Carbone is back in Texas, unveiling his new pop-up endeavor, No. 1 STEAK, which transforms Sadelle’s in Highland Park Village into an exciting steakhouse designed for meat lovers.
On the eve of its official opening, Carbone showcased his culinary skills by trimming steaks for steak tartare, captivating V.I.P. guests who were eager to witness one of the country’s most celebrated chefs in action.
Sadelle’s, known for its light and airy ambiance during brunch hours, was originally launched in New York and now boasts locations in Las Vegas, Paris, and Riyadh.
However, after nightfall, it takes on a completely different identity as No. 1 STEAK, aptly named after its address: 1 Highland Park Village. Yet, even if the restaurant were positioned elsewhere, it would still be hailed as one of the finest steakhouses in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, a significant accolade in a region renowned for its beef.
At No. 1 STEAK, Carbone features wagyu beef sourced from Rosewood Ranches, located near Ennis, Texas. The cattle here are raised naturally, free from hormones or antibiotics, emphasizing quality and care in their rearing.
During an earlier conversation, Carbone shared his admiration for the ranch, stating, “I went to the ranch and spent a whole day with them and kind of fell in love with them.”
The steakhouse operates from Thursday to Saturday, between 6:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., with Sadelle’s morphing into a steak haven during this limited time.
While other brunch spots have shifted to speakeasy-style concepts, No. 1 STEAK opts for a straightforward approach. There’s no secret password required to enjoy the dining experience, but the whimsical nickname “steakeasy” has a charming appeal.
Each table is covered in butcher paper, where staff use Sharpies to note diners’ preferences for their steaks. The prix fixe menu, reminiscent of Carbone’s original dining concepts, offers a hearty selection.
For $59, diners can indulge in a green salad dressed with whole-grain mustard, prime strip steak accompanied by Carbone’s signature peppercorn sauce, crispy Texas onion rings, and a refreshing housemade frozen yogurt with brown butter salted caramel sauce.
Additionally, guests can opt for various add-ons, including spicy shrimp, oysters, caviar, and a decadent German chocolate cake topped with housemade coconut cream whip.
To complement the delicious menu, a dedicated martini list is designed to pair perfectly with the dishes, featuring selections like the blue cheese-infused No. 1 martini and the spicy tequila creation known as the Lone Star.
Those who choose to stick with the prix fixe menu will find it to be substantial, rich with well-executed dishes that surpass expectations. The salad is far from an afterthought, while the onion rings stand out as crispy and flavorful, marking them as some of the best available.
The prime steak from Rosewood Ranches is a highlight, showcasing a perfect blend of tenderness and flavor, and the frozen yogurt serves as a delightful concluding note to the meal. For the quality offered, $59 is a remarkable price point in today’s dining landscape.
Diners with dietary restrictions are encouraged to inform the restaurant staff for accommodations.
When asked about the longevity of No. 1 STEAK, Carbone stated, “Who knows? Sometimes I just get inspired and go with it.” The pop-up opened to the public today and is anticipated to run through the fall.
Residents are hopeful that if No. 1 STEAK becomes a popular choice in their dining rotation, it could transition from a temporary pop-up to a permanent fixture.
Reflecting on the shift, it’s clear that Sadelle’s has evolved from merely being a restaurant in Dallas to embodying the essence of a true Dallas restaurant.
With Carbone incorporating Texas-centric dishes like breakfast tacos and making regular visits to the city, No. 1 STEAK further cements its connection to the local community, showcasing a profound understanding of the regional palate.
For those interested in experiencing No. 1 STEAK, it is located at 1 Highland Park Village in Dallas, approximately a 25-minute drive from Legacy West, traffic permitting. Reservations can be made through the restaurant’s official site.
A special thanks to No. 1 STEAK for hosting and treating our dining experience.
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