The Restaurant District brings chef-driven cuisine to the Shops at Willow Bend, opening mid-to-late October. As part of a $125 million renovation, The District adds a unique dining experience to Plano and the North Dallas area. Leading the culinary side is Knife, a steakhouse by celebrity chef John Tesar, along with local favorites Terra Mediteranean and Whistle Britches. So when we were invited to experience a preview of The District and private Chef’s Tasting of these upscale eateries, I knew we were in for a treat!
When you enter the District plaza, the courtyard is stunning. Landscaped grounds with a water feature, modern architecture, exterior art, outdoor decor with modern accents welcome you to a unique dining experience and a an environment where family, friends, and communities can gather, discover, and share.
The courtyard at the District is bright during the day and lights up at night setting the tone
The evening started with a cocktail reception in the courtyard followed by the first tasting from Mexican Bar Co. Cocina, then Whistle Britches, and finally Knife. The evening culminated with live music and a fireworks finale.
Outfit Details: asymmetric slip skirt
, Booties: Spendid LA, Sweater: Zara
The Chefs
First tour and plated tasting at Mexican Bar Co. Cocina
Mural art along the perimeter walls of Mexican Bar Co. Cocina
Second tour and plated tasting at Whistle and Britches
Third and final tour and plated tasting of Knife
Knife ranks #1 in Texas and #6 nationally for best burger! Photo by Carter Rose Photography
The star of the show for me was the burger at Knife. Simply the best. Don’t get me wrong, I love me some Shake Shack, but this burger is just special. There are no bells and whistles. It’s just pure 44 Farms beef, thick, salty, with a pure, clean meaty aftertaste, topped with two slices of American cheese.
All the new restaurant additions are perfect for casual dining with friends for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Reservations are not required so you can pop in after work on the weekends, or before a game. Opening mid-to late October.
A brief description of what you can expect by the amazing chefs from Knife, Mexican Bar Co. Cocina, Whistle Britches and Terra Mediterranean, which will all be opening in phases throughout this month.
Knife – @KnifeSteakhouse
- Chef John Tesar (@ChefJohnTesar)
- Knife offers state-of-the-art steaks that guests can either enjoy in the dining room or take home and cook themselves. Knife Burger offers walk-up burgers, shakes and fries. This is the second Knife location.
- Opening date – mid October
Mexican Bar Co. Cocina – @MexBars
- Chef Patricio Sandoval
- Mexican Bar Co Cocina brings authentic Mexican flavors to Plano. The Picnic will offer walk-up tacos and Mexican street foods. This is the first Mexican Bar Co location.
- Opening date – mid October
Terra Mediterranean – @TerraMediterranean
- Chefs Adam Shanaa and Jalal Chanaa
- Terra Mediterranean serves classic and authentic dishes featuring staples of the Mediterranean diet. Terra offers a lunchtime buffet and terrace-level patio seating. This is the third Terra location.
- Opening date – late October
Whistle Britches – @whistlebritcheschicken
- Serving the tastiest, juiciest and crunchiest bird in town; the pickle brined bird, farm-fresh ingredients and soulful cooking will leave you wanting more.
Thank you Shops At Willow Bend for having us for a preview of your new restaurants and delicious tastings! The District at Willow Bend is just what the North Dallas area desires for a place to gather with family and friends, and a new retail plaza serving the DFW metroplex as a dining destination. I wish all the restaurants all the best in success and I hope to see you all soon for many memorable meals.
Go taste and see for yourself when the restaurants open later this month and let me know what you think!