5 Things to Do in Dallas, According to a Local Expert
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek's Chief Concierge Mary Stamm shares her best tips for exploring the Texas cultural hub
A note to start: We’re watching with so much horror and sadness as fires rage in Los Angeles, a place we used to live and where so many of our friends still do. I’m sure you’re seeing the flood of GoFundMe pages that funnel funds directly to those impacted and plenty of other worthwhile places to donate. One of our go-tos is World Central Kitchen.
The next Carry On, slated to run January 28th, will feature our guide to Iceland with tons of local recommendations and insights, as well as a packing list. (It’s a tough place to pack for in any season!) But for now, read on for why I love the concierge desk (and you should too), a handful of gems from a Dallas expert, and Gate Check, i.e. a little roundup of travel news.
Over the years, on far too many hotel visits, I assumed that since I didn’t need help scoring a hard-to-get restaurant reservation or last-minute matinee tickets I couldn’t possibly have any business at the concierge desk. Until earlier this year, that is, when I mentioned to a concierge that I love art, and he arranged a one-on-one tour with a curator at a nearby gallery.
I spent the most memorable hour of that trip learning about contemporary sculptures and Italian Renaissance paintings from the person who acquired them, and I left knowing I’d never breeze past the concierge desk again. Since then, I’ve gleaned insider recommendations from amazing local experts who know their locale better than anyone.
One of these is Mary Stamm of the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Last October, the Chief Concierge celebrated 41 years at the historic Dallas property. A member of the esteemed international org of concierges, Clefs d’Or, Stamm told D magazine that during her tenure she’s done everything from filling a suite with flowers for a guest to recommending the best place in the city for vintage cowboy boots.
Below, find five of her best recommendations for where to eat, drink, and shop in Dallas. And on your next trip, wherever it is, don’t forget to ask the concierge for all the insider tips.
“A unique shopping space that is simply a breath of fresh air that I love recommending is Blue Print — a wonderful cannot-miss spot owned and created by five women interior designers. They've created a magical space featuring beautifully crafted furniture pieces, jewelry, tablescapes, and so much more. It's a uniquely wonderful place to shop when visiting Dallas and certainly a surprise for our guests.”
The Library at The Mansion Restaurant
“Dating to 1925, the former library of the Sheppard King estate is a marvel. For the most memorable dining experience in Dallas, the beautifully preserved room is highlighted by a stained-glass window bearing the coats of arms of the British barons who witnessed the signing of the 1215 Magna Carta at Runnymede. Mrs. King was a descendent of King Edward III of England. The intimate room and dinner are not to be overlooked when visiting The Mansion.”
“For our younger guests, I love recommending Layette, a children's dream come true. I used to shop at stores all over Dallas trying to discover wonderful and unique gifts and clothes for my nieces. Layette always delivers and has the most perfectly assembled items for babies and young children.”
“A cannot-miss spot for lunch is the absolutely exquisite and very special Grange Hall. With only 26 seats, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable lunch with dear friends or family. In addition to a memorable lunch, I always suggest that our guests carve out time to also explore their retail section. Their retail space is intelligently curated with wonderful items from all over the world. A perfect afternoon in Dallas of lunch and retail therapy, simply a must when visiting Dallas.”
Live Entertainment and a Mansion Margarita at the Mansion Bar
“Live Entertainment at the Mansion Bar is always a treat for our hotel guests and locals alike. The intimate atmosphere of the Mansion Bar, housed in the original dining room and kitchen of the historic 1920s estate, is a true Dallas treasure. And to make it even more special, I always make sure our guests never miss out on our Mansion Margarita and house-made truffle fries. A perfect Dallas evening that always delights.”
A person on an international flight was allegedly bullied by fellow passengers for refusing to change seats (comfort plus for basic economy, no less!) so a pair of friends could sit together.
Passengers on several different Turkish Airlines flights reported bed bug sightings (+ bites!) The airline’s response wasn’t ideal.
This excellent New York magazine piece about passengers on a Norwegian cruise ship reads like an anxiety dream come to life.