Get Dumplings From an Automat in Deep Ellum

The height of convenience is coming to Deep Ellum on Monday, May 15, with Brooklyn Dumpling Shop. It’s an automat concept where diners can walk in and order, picking dumplings out of a locker, without having to deal with a human. It has a 32-flavor menu of dumplings stuffed with ingredients meant to evoke pepperoni pizza, Buffalo chicken, and a reuben, alongside more familiar Asian flavor profiles, including crispy pork and Kung Pao Chicken. It will also serve potstickers and “chop chop bowls.”

Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is the brainchild of New York restauranteur Stratis Morfogen, who opened the first location early in 2021. The chain’s founder made headlines during the pandemic for loudly opposing vaccine mandates. Stratis recently exited Pappas Taverna in NYC, a comeback attempt for celebrity chef Todd English following accusations in 2017 of sexual harassment. Stratis told Eater NY they would resume their partnership in a different location.

The Deep Ellum location is the first in Texas, manned by Dallasite Sam Cole. Atlanta and Austin have teased openings as well.

The Saint Finally, Quietly Opens

The Saint is finally opening in Dallas, and after teasing a fall 2022 launch, it ended up with a spring 2023 open date in something its website refers to as the “lower Gaston district.” We call it Deep Ellum. The Advocate reports it’s in the former Two Sisters location on Gaston and Cantegral and is open as of Thursday, May 11. As previously reported, the menu mixes Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

There’s a New Speakeasy in Town From the Devil Himself

Saint Rocco’s in Trinity Groves announced opening a Prohibition-themed speakeasy called Devil’s Back Porch. As a press release for the spot outlines, the name is derived from a former nickname for Trinity Groves — it was the hangout for Dallas gangsters during the Depression, who used the westward Eagle Ford Road as an escape path from the law. It will open on May 25, and the decor and outfits should give visitors Peaky Blinders vibes.

There’s a New District in Frisco, and You Don’t Have to Love Golf to Enjoy It

The PGA Frisco is warming up its entertainment district in anticipation of summer, including the official opening of the first two spaces. Ice House and Lounge by Topgolf are ready for diners to drop in. Ice House is an indoor/outdoor beer garden where golf attire, and even more casual vibes, are welcome. It’s got an in-house pitmaster smoking barbecue and burgers to go with the brews. Lounge by Topgolf is an indoor sports bar with tons of games, craft cocktails, and “elevated fare” on the menu — so maybe dress a little nicer for this one.