The Harwood District of Dallas may not ring a bell with residents just yet, but it's poised to be an attention grabber in the coming months.
The sliver of real estate on the edge of Uptown near American Airlines Center is traditionally a hotbed for commercial office buildings. But the developer that owns the land, Harwood International, is working to make the area a foodie destination -- a plan that includes five new restaurant openings this year alone.
Commercial real estate is Harwood International's "bread and butter," says Jessica Young, head of public relations and marketing. "That's why restaurants are so important to our company ... to create lively experiences at the ground level."
It's all part of a long-term vision to create 18 walkable city blocks' worth of destination locations, which began when Harwood International CEO Gabriel Barbier-Mueller built the Rolex building in 1984.
Locals may recognize Harwood-owned restaurants such as Saint Ann Restaurant and Bar, Marie Gabrielle Restaurant and Gardens, and Mercat Bistro, but newer concepts are moving in soon. Here's a glimpse of what's to come in the Harwood District.
The Grove at Harwood
A renovated 1940s home on McKinnon Street will soon be the site of a casual restaurant and bar that focuses on enjoying the urban outdoors. The Grove at Harwood's walk-up kitchen/kiosk will serve paninis, snacks, beer and wine to those who come to play on one of the two sand volleyball courts or the bocce ball pit. All seating is outside, but Young promised a cabana area with hammocks to provide shade during the summer months.
Opened May 15, 2015. See deets here.
Happiest Hour
Right now, the site of forthcoming bar and restaurant Happiest Hour is a large plot of dirt. But once construction finishes this summer, it will be Harwood International's largest retail space at 11,000 square feet. The plan includes a rooftop terrace and large garden complete with outdoor games like bocce ball. It's also walking distance to American Airlines Center.
Expected opening: Summer 2015
Magnolias Sous Le Pont
This French-inspired coffee shop is already open in quaint digs at the base of 2727 N. Harwood in March. Magnolias serves a variety of espresso drinks, including flat whites, cortados and macchiatos, as well as unique twists on traditional flavors, like its lavender and vanilla latte. The menu includes small snacks, and crews are currently working on building a patio out front.
Frost Tower eateries
Two restaurants -- an Italian eatery and Italian café -- will occupy the ground level of the forthcoming 22-story Frost Tower. Details of the concepts, including their names, haven't been finalized yet, according to Young.
Expected opening: Fall 2015
