Deep Ellum, nestled 5 minutes from downtown Dallas, is one of the most walkable neighborhoods you have to visit! My unpopular opinion, visit Deep Ellum during the morning and afternoon (free parking until 6pm!). Though it is known for night life, I’d argue it’s best explored during the day! Countless boutiques, unique stores, cafés, thrift/vintage shops, restaurants, specialty desserts, and plenty of side streets to explore!
If you are staying downtown for work or just moved to Dallas and need a little nudge to explore the neighborhoods, I got you covered! This is not an exhaustive list of recommendations but a few key spots to get you started!
Coffee Shops
With half a dozen or more to choose from, here are my top Coffee Shops to either work remotely from or sit and catch up with a friend.
- Merit*
- Good Boy* (edge of Deep Ellum)
- CGB Coffee
- White Rhino
- Mokah Coffee & Tea (attached to a free art gallery + outdoor seating)
There are close to a dozen or more coffee shops in Deep Ellum, keep an eye out and google maps open for even more to discover! This list is for those who need an insiders look on which ones are the *best* (I know this is subjective) and ones you don’t want to miss especially if you’re only in town for a quick weekend!
Located on the edge of Deep Ellum is this sick coffee/vintage/plant store that is pricey– but can be rationalized to visit at least once! (you won’t be disappointed: coffee/merchandise strong 10/10)
Thrift/Vintage
- 2nd Street Deep Ellum* (Vintage, name brands, designer)
- HEYKONEKO* (Attached to Good Boy Cafe; vintage + hand crafted pieces)
- Dated Faded Warn
- Flea Style HQ
- Nylo Wool Vintage
When it comes to this neighborhood, you won’t find thrifted goods that are in the price range of your local Salvation Army or Good Will. The thrift culture in Deep Ellum is more so the “upscale” sometimes even (in my opinion) overpriced thrifted goods. This is more for a vintage crawl and plan to spend around $30-100 for a few items at these stores.
Unique Boutiques
- Rocket Fizz Deep Ellum (vintage candy/sign store)
- Archer Paper Goods (similar to a paper source)
- Jade & Clover (plants & unique gifts)
- Space Cowboy Home (plants & unique gifts)
- Deep Vellum Book Store & Publishing Company (books)
Restaurants
- The Biscuit Bar
- Velvet Taco (try the paneer tacos & red velvet cake)
- Deep Sushi
- Hawkers Asian Street Food
- The Free Man Cajun Cafe & Lounge
Desserts
- Insomnia Cookie (open LATE)
- Le Bon Temps Beignets and Coffee (try the $10 beignets bag)
- Emporium Pies
This is just a taste of what Deep Ellum has to offer! The real joy is spending a few hours just walking around the neighborhood and discovering hidden gems! Be sure to block out an afternoon to get the full experience! Most shops don’t open until after 11am, so plan accordingly!
Happy Exploring,
Cosette & David
