Marquee Grill is a Culinary and Art Deco Masterpiece

The people who said that things are bigger in Texas were only partly right. Because they're also better! And nowhere is this on more brilliant display than in legendary Highland Park Village at the new Marquee Grill! WOW!!

We met our friend and partner Jim Kastleman of PaperCity Magazine the other night and it was great! And I mean food, drinks, atmosphere, the works. The company wasn't bad either, as PR dynamo Lindsey Miller dropped by and cracked us up. She's simply lovely. And if the question is "is there anyone more fun to be around in Dallas or Houston than Jim Kastleman?".....the answer is no. Because he has undoubtedly held the #1 spot for awhile now. (Good idea to meet at Marquee Grill Jim!)

I knew Marquee Grill was getting many national accolades, but I had not been. But now I know what all the hoopla is about. As they say, reputations are built one meal at a time. And everything we had was really special. Steaks, lobster ceviche, fresh homemade bread, unusual and refreshing cocktails. Major YUM factor. Top Chef Tre Wilcox and his staff have certainly raised the bar high here. I ask you, how do they please so many people so many nights in a row? Whatever it is, it's working. But the crowds were manageable and we met new friends we'll definitely keep.

Marquee Grill is the latest effort from Twomey Concepts, and somebody knows how to please. Celebrity/bartender/proprietor Jason Kosmas and partner Dushan Zaric are the inspired Marquee Grill aficionados. And let me tell you something right now, they leave no stone unturned to thrill you. Or rather no delicious earthly morsel unturned! We probably embarrassed ourselves with moans and groans of culinary ecstasy.

Marquee Grill has this unusual and lush (but comfortable) Art Deco meets Mid-Century vibe that makes you want to stay awhile! And we did. The two story and meandering space is right next to the historic Village Theatre in Highland Park Village, and it's quickly become the see-and-be-seen spot in Dallas. But make no mistake, this one promises to become a long timer. It's a classic, it's here to stay.

Be warned....the food and attentive service will seduce you rather quickly. My lobster ceviche had me at hello. But Marquee features a progressive New American menu, as well as wood fired steaks and chops. The lunch menu has a variety of entrée salads, sandwiches and their famous Burger. Famous doesn't come from just saying so, it comes from taking one bite out of this burger!! Kosmas has developed an extensive list of hand crafted cocktails reminiscent of a bygone era too. The wine and scotch list is becoming renowned. So enjoy!

The décor at Marquee Grill is comfortably elegant with a strong nod to 1930’s Art Deco architecture, which we have always loved here at The Old State. Art Deco will always be in style, and it shines at this restaurant. There are many different places to hang out, have a drink, have a meeting, make new friends. The downstairs dining room is a bit more formal, with the second floor dining room catering to a casual experience.

Yes, Marquee Grill is beautiful. But no, it's not stuffy. It reminds me of what a cool place in New York or Paris from the 20's or 30's would have been like. Ultimately casual with a luxe feel, you will feel right at home here for a special date or night out. The large bar upstairs has comfortable couches, booths and many bar stools. The Village Theatre’s marquee serves double duty as the bar’s balcony providing you with the best view in Highland Park. Thus the restaurant name.

Bravo Marquee Grill! You take the cake of all cakes for quality, design and YUM factor!! Consider us fans. And we might just go back again tonight!

The Old State House of Web Design & Development

Info about Marquee Grill:
33 Highland Park Village
(214) 522-6035
www.marqueegrill.com