Kitchen Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Dallas Menu
Kitchen Kocktails sits at 1933 Elm St in downtown Dallas. This spot offers upscale southern cuisine with a Texas twist. It turns comfort food into fancy dishes with a fresh look.
The à la carte menu boasts tasty fried chicken and juicy lobster tail. You’ll also find shrimp and grits, plus creative waffle dishes. Weekend brunch service adds special morning options on Saturdays and Sundays.
Three things make this place special: great comfort food Dallas TX locals love, unique cocktails, and a fun atmosphere. The menu covers everything from starters to desserts.
Each dish takes familiar flavors and makes them new and exciting. You’ll enjoy traditional tastes with a modern touch.
1. Kevin Kelley: The Celebrity Chef Behind Kitchen Kocktails Dallas
Kevin Kelley revolutionized upscale soul food, earning national recognition. His celebrity chef status stems from transforming traditional recipes into extraordinary experiences. The kevin kelley chef brand embodies culinary excellence and hospitality innovation.
Kitchen + Kocktails showcases Chef Kelley’s refined skills and creative vision. His commitment to quality and authentic flavors drives the restaurant’s success. Every dish served reflects years of expertise.
Chef Kevin Kelley’s Culinary Journey
Chef Kelley honed his skills under renowned chefs across the country. He mastered classic techniques and innovative approaches in fine dining establishments. His charismatic personality and cooking expertise led to television appearances and media recognition.
Kelley’s philosophy balances culinary heritage with modern dining expectations. He believes great food needs exceptional service and atmosphere. This approach shaped his vision for Kitchen + Kocktails.
The Vision Behind Kitchen Kocktails
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley opened in Dallas in 2020. The concept focuses on great food, unique cocktails, and enjoyable experiences. Dallas embraced the kevin kelley restaurant dallas concept with enthusiasm.
The success in Dallas proved the concept’s broad appeal. Expansion to Chicago followed in 2021. Additional locations opened in Washington D.C., Charlotte, Atlanta, and Philadelphia.
Each location maintains the core vision while adapting to local dining cultures. The atmosphere balances sophistication with warmth. Dallas remains the flagship, receiving strong local community support.
Southern Soul Food Meets Upscale Dallas Dining
Kitchen + Kocktails elevates soul food with premium ingredients and refined techniques. It respects authentic flavors while enhancing presentation. This approach makes it a standout dallas soul food restaurant.
The menu reimagines classic dishes with high-end culinary methods. Fried chicken receives the same attention as steakhouse entrees. Sides showcase seasonal produce and creative flavor combinations.
This modern twist appeals to divers diners seeking familiar tastes. The upscale soul food dallas concept offers sophistication without pretension. It maintains the warmth associated with soul food traditions.
Chef Kelley’s expertise balances nostalgia with innovation in each dish. Fine dining techniques enhance traditional flavors. The result honors soul food roots while meeting contemporary standards.
Kitchen + Kocktails has become a destination for locals and visitors. It proves soul food deserves the same respect as any culinary tradition. This philosophy drives the restaurant’s success and expansion.
2. Kitchen Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Dallas Menu: Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection offers diverse flavors for every palate. The kitchen kocktails by kevin kelley dallas menu starts with starters that showcase southern soul food traditions. These dishes combine classic methods with upscale touches for an elevated dining experience.
Guests can pick from hot small plates, fresh salads, or shareable options. The appetizer lineup reflects Chef Kelley’s dedication to authentic southern cuisine dallas flavors. These opening courses set the stage for a memorable meal in downtown Dallas.
Southern-Inspired Small Plates
Hot appetizers feature comfort food dallas tx staples prepared with care. Fried Green Tomatoes are crispy with a tangy coating. Fried Salmon Bites offer tender fish in a crunchy exterior.
Dream Eggs with Blackened Shrimp elevate traditional deviled eggs. The blackened seasoning adds smoky heat to the creamy egg filling. Cajun Crab Cakes showcase Gulf Coast flavors with crab meat and bold spices.
Fried Pickles deliver crunch and tang in every bite. Cauliflower comes fried or sautéed, highlighting its natural sweetness with southern seasoning.
Trinity Eggroll wraps Cajun cooking’s holy trinity in a crispy shell. This fusion creation bridges Louisiana ingredients with Asian techniques. It’s a unique starter not found at typical restaurants.
Soup options include Seafood Gumbo with a rich roux and Jerk Chicken Noodle Soup. The gumbo follows New Orleans traditions with okra and file powder. The jerk chicken version balances heat with tender noodles.
Chargrilled Oysters arrive bubbling with garlic butter and herbs. They offer a refined take on Gulf seafood. The char adds smoky depth to the oysters’ brininess.
Fresh Salads and Cold Appetizers
Lighter starters balance the fried and grilled selections. The Southern Garden Salad features fresh greens with house-made dressing. It’s a crisp, refreshing beginning.
The Caesar Salad follows the classic formula with romaine, parmesan, and creamy dressing. The Blackened Salmon Caesar adds protein and bold seasoning to the familiar base.
These cold appetizers offer alternatives for guests who prefer lighter fare. They balance the richer fried items on the kitchen kocktails by kevin kelley dallas menu.
Shareables for the Table
Several appetizers work well for groups wanting to sample multiple flavors. The Appetizer Trio lets tables try three different starters. This combination platter provides variety and encourages sharing.
Collard Green Dip turns a traditional side into a creamy, shareable appetizer. It makes leafy greens accessible as a dip with chips or bread. The prep keeps the vegetable’s flavor while creating a communal experience.
The Chargrilled Oysters also work well as a shared dish. Tables can order multiple servings to enjoy together. These options reflect southern cuisine dallas hospitality traditions of communal dining.
| Appetizer Category | Featured Items | Preparation Style |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Small Plates | Fried Green Tomatoes, Fried Salmon Bites, Fried Pickles, Cauliflower | Crispy, golden-brown coating with southern seasoning |
| Seafood Starters | Cajun Crab Cakes, Chargrilled Oysters, Dream Eggs with Blackened Shrimp | Grilled, blackened, or pan-fried with Cajun spices |
| Soups and Warm Dishes | Seafood Gumbo, Jerk Chicken Noodle Soup, Trinity Eggroll | Slow-simmered or fried with bold seasonings |
| Fresh Salads | Southern Garden Salad, Caesar Salad, Blackened Salmon Caesar | Fresh greens with house dressings and optional proteins |
| Shareable Options | Appetizer Trio, Collard Green Dip, Chargrilled Oysters | Combination platters and dips for group dining |
The appetizer menu shows a range from traditional comfort food dallas tx to refined dishes. Bold flavors define each starter, whether fried, grilled, or fresh. This diverse selection ensures every guest finds appealing options at Kitchen Kocktails.
3. Main Courses and Signature Entrees
The main courses offer authentic southern flavors with upscale refinement. Shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and specialty waffles showcase comfort food dallas tx. These dishes balance traditional soul food with contemporary presentation, defining upscale soul food dallas.
The menu boasts over twenty entree options highlighting southern cuisine dallas. Portions are generous without being overwhelming. Chef Kelley honors classic recipes while introducing elevated ingredients and modern plating techniques.
Comfort Food Classics Reimagined
The signature Shrimp & Grits features plump shrimp over creamy stone-ground grits. For added luxury, try the Shrimp & Grits + Lobster Tail. These dishes exemplify comfort food dallas tx with restaurant-quality execution.
Chicken and waffle combinations are a standout here. The Southern Fried Chicken & Traditional Waffles pairs crispy chicken with fluffy Belgian-style waffles. Diners can choose from creative waffle varieties with the Chicken & Specialty Waffles option.
- Traditional – Classic Belgian-style waffle
- Butter Pecan – Caramelized pecans with butter glaze
- Peach Cobbler – Sweet peach filling with cinnamon notes
- Cinnamon Roll – Cream cheese frosting and cinnamon swirl
- Banana Pudding – Vanilla wafer crumble with banana cream
- Berries + Cream Waffle – Fresh berries with whipped cream
Monthly waffle specials rotate regularly and are announced on social media. The Fried Chicken & Moët combines southern fried chicken with champagne service for special occasions.
Other southern cuisine dallas favorites include Braised Short Rib with rich pan gravy. The Kajun Kream Pasta features Cajun-seasoned cream sauce over pasta with choice of protein. The 10 Piece Chicken is perfect for family-style dining.
The Chicken Fried Chicken takes the Texas classic seriously. Hand-breaded chicken cutlets and country gravy represent comfort food dallas tx prepared with precision and care.
Seafood and Fish Dishes
Seafood options showcase traditional and contemporary southern cuisine dallas preparations. The Southern Fried Catfish features golden, cornmeal-crusted fillets. This classic dish honors catfish’s place in soul food tradition.
Grits-based seafood entrees include Fish & Grits and Fried Salmon + Grits. Both pair flaky fish with creamy grits. The Blackened Salmon offers a lighter option with Cajun spice crust and seasonal vegetables.
Premium seafood selections feature Lobster Tail with drawn butter. The Fried Lobster Bites provide crispy, bite-sized luxury. These options elevate the menu beyond typical comfort food dallas tx offerings.
The Surf & Turf pairs choice protein with lobster tail. Shrimp is available fried, grilled, or blackened. The Caesar Shrimp Salad combines blackened shrimp with crisp romaine and house-made dressing.
Chicken, Turkey, and Poultry Options
Chicken preparations dominate the poultry section. The Honey Hot Chicken balances sweet honey glaze with Nashville-style heat. Southern Fried Chicken remains the quintessential upscale soul food dallas staple.
The Jerk Chicken brings Caribbean influence with traditional spice marinade. It offers bold flavors distinct from typical comfort food dallas tx. The seasoning creates a spicy, aromatic crust for adventurous diners.
Caribbean Jerk Lamb Chops are available in various portions. These feature jerk seasoning on premium meat. Pork Chops provide another protein option with southern-style preparation.
For plant-based diners, the TRUE Vegan Bowl offers a complete entree without animal products. This ensures inclusive dining while maintaining flavorful, satisfying meals.
Southern-Style Sides and Accompaniments
Traditional southern sides complement every entree with authentic flavors. These represent essential elements of southern cuisine dallas dining traditions. Each side is prepared from scratch using time-honored techniques.
The side menu features eleven classic options available à la carte or as entree accompaniments:
| Classic Sides | Premium Sides | Starches & Breads |
|---|---|---|
| Collard Greens w/Smoked Turkey | Lobster Mac & Cheese | Grits |
| Black-Eyed Peas w/Smoked Turkey | Mac & Cheese | White Rice |
| Candied Yams | Side Caesar Salad | Cornbread |
| Mashed Potatoes | French Fries |
The Collard Greens w/Smoked Turkey and Black-Eyed Peas w/Smoked Turkey incorporate smoked turkey for depth. These honor traditional southern cuisine dallas cooking methods. Slow cooking develops complex flavors in both sides.
Candied Yams provide sweet contrast with butter and brown sugar glaze. The Mac & Cheese features creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. For extra indulgence, try the Lobster Mac & Cheese.
Warm Cornbread arrives with honey butter, complementing virtually every entree. The Mashed Potatoes are smooth and buttery, perfect for soaking up gravies and sauces.
4. Signature Kocktails and Beverage Menu
Kitchen Kocktails in Dallas offers creative mixology alongside southern-inspired cuisine. The extensive cocktail selection complements the bold menu flavors. Chef Kevin Kelley elevates southern hospitality through innovative presentation and premium ingredients.
Creative Cocktails with Southern Flair
The signature cocktails blend southern tradition with modern mixology. The Honey Bee features regional honey, while the Bonnie & Clyde Duo Kocktail is perfect for sharing.
Premium cognac options include the Remy 1738 Peach Sidekar and Remy 1738 Sidekar. These classics showcase French spirits with southern fruit accents. The Martell Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini offers a decadent dessert-inspired experience.
Whiskey lovers will enjoy the 1792 Small Batch Old Fashioned. The 24K Gold Fashioned features edible gold leaf for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Margarita options include Blackberry and Strawberry Jalapeño, balancing sweetness with heat. Tequila fans can try the Clase Azul Flight, sampling premium spirits.
The 24K Magical Mimosa Tower turns brunch into a celebration. Fun options like Cotton Candy Cloud and True Flame offer interactive entertainment.
Frozen cocktails bring refreshing twists to the menu. The GO3 Strawberry Lemon Drop and GO3 Frozen Lemon Drop offer citrus cooling. Peach D’Ussé Frosé combines rosé, cognac, and peach flavors.
Classic frozen margaritas feature top-shelf tequilas: Don Julio and Patrón. The Latimer rounds out the frozen options. These cocktails are available for take-out.
| Cocktail Category | Featured Drinks | Key Ingredients | Signature Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Cognac | Remy 1738 Peach Sidekar, Martell Espresso Martini | Remy 1738, Martell, peach, espresso | French spirits with southern accents |
| Whiskey Classics | 1792 Old Fashioned, 24K Gold Fashioned | Small batch bourbon, edible gold | Elevated traditional cocktails |
| Margarita Varieties | Blackberry, Strawberry Jalapeño, Clase Azul Flight | Blackberry, strawberry, jalapeño, premium tequila | Sweet and spicy flavor balance |
| Frozen Cocktails | Peach D’Ussé Frosé, Don Julio Frozen Margarita | Rosé, cognac, Don Julio tequila | Available for to-go purchase |
| Showstoppers | 24K Mimosa Tower, Cotton Candy Cloud, True Flame | Champagne, cotton candy, flaming presentation | Interactive visual experience |
Wine List and Beer Selection
The kitchen kocktails by kevin kelley dallas menu features an impressive premium liquor selection. It emphasizes top-shelf brands that appeal to discerning drinkers seeking exceptional quality.
Remy Martin Louis XIII represents the pinnacle of cognac craftsmanship. It’s available in multiple pour sizes, allowing guests to experience luxury cognac at various price points.
The tequila selection highlights Mexico’s finest distilleries. Don Julio 1942 offers smooth añejo character. Clase Azul Reposado and Blanco showcase handcrafted ceramic bottles and exceptional taste.
Whiskey offerings include sought-after bottles like Blanton’s single barrel and Booker’s barrel-proof bourbon. Uncle Nearest honors African American whiskey-making heritage. Other selections feature Buffalo Trace, Crown Royal, Jack Daniel’s, and Maker’s Mark.
Vodka enthusiasts find multiple CÎROC flavors alongside Grey Goose and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Gin and rum selections complement the spirits menu. Scotch options include Macallan 12, Macallan 18, and Johnnie Walker Blue Label.
Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-alcoholic alternatives ensure every guest enjoys sophisticated beverage options. The mocktail menu mirrors cocktail creativity without alcohol content. The virgin Blackberry Margarita delivers the same fruit-forward flavor profile.
Handcrafted Premium Lemonade and Premium Strawberry Lemonade provide refreshing classics made with fresh ingredients. Rum Punch Plus+ offers tropical flavors in a family-friendly format.
The Gold Fashioned recreates whiskey cocktail complexity through creative non-alcoholic substitutes. Candy Cloud and Black Magic bring whimsical presentations to the mocktail menu. These options ensure all guests receive equal attention in beverage program development.
5. Atmosphere, Location, and Practical Information
Kitchen Kocktails offers more than just great food and drinks. Its downtown Dallas location provides easy access for diners. The welcoming atmosphere and clear pricing ensure a confident, enjoyable visit for every guest.
The Vibrant Dining Atmosphere
Kitchen Kocktails blends upscale dining with Southern hospitality. The interior design creates an energetic yet refined environment. It’s perfect for special occasions and casual meals alike.
Since 2020, the restaurant has attracted celebrities and locals. This mix of clientele reflects Chef Kevin Kelley’s culinary appeal. The atmosphere remains welcoming to all, celebrating soul food culture with premium service.
The Asset Lounge offers private dining for up to 36 guests. It’s ideal for corporate events, birthdays, or family gatherings. Interested guests can contact the events team for custom menus.
Downtown Dallas Location and Parking
Kitchen Kocktails is at 1933 Elm St, Dallas, TX. This central spot is near major landmarks, hotels, and entertainment venues. It’s easy to reach for both locals and tourists.
Parking options include street meters and nearby public garages. Ride-sharing services can drop guests off right at the door. This makes visiting this downtown dallas restaurants location convenient.
Kitchen Kocktails Menu Prices and Value
The à la carte menu lets diners create their ideal meal. Prices reflect premium ingredients and Chef Kelley’s expertise. The restaurant offers upscale comfort dining rather than budget-casual fare.
Appetizers and entrees range from moderate to premium pricing. Side dishes are priced separately. Many guests find sharing appetizers and sides creates a satisfying, cost-effective meal.
The beverage menu includes options for all budgets. You’ll find craft cocktails alongside more affordable beer and wine choices.
Making Kitchen Kocktails Reservations
Reservations are strongly recommended due to high demand. This dallas soul food restaurant fills up quickly, especially during weekend brunch and Friday lunch. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred dining time.
Make kitchen kocktails reservations by phone or online. Walk-ins are welcome when space allows, but wait times can be long. Groups of six or more should call ahead.
Hours of Operation and Best Times to Visit
Kitchen Kocktails focuses on lunch and brunch service. The schedule suits both weekday diners and weekend brunchers. Knowing the timing helps guests plan their visits effectively.
| Service Period | Days | Hours | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch | Monday – Thursday | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Professional, relaxed pace |
| Lunch | Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Lively, social energy |
| Brunch | Saturday – Sunday | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Celebratory, leisurely dining |
Weekday lunches offer a quieter experience than weekend crowds. They’re great for business meetings or peaceful meals. Friday lunch draws a social crowd, creating an energetic vibe.
Weekend brunch is the busiest time. Book early to secure a table between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Arriving early or during late lunch hours often means shorter wait times.
6. Conclusion
Kitchen Kocktails by Kevin Kelley offers reimagined southern classics in Dallas. The restaurant’s success stems from great food, innovative drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. It attracts both locals and celebrities alike.
Signature dishes like Shrimp & Grits showcase the menu’s upscale comfort food. Creative waffles and specialty cocktails, such as The 24K Gold Fashioned, highlight their unique offerings. The diverse menu includes seafood, poultry, and vegan options.
Chef Kelley blends southern soul food with modern techniques. Each dish reflects his dedication to tradition and innovation. The result is a menu that satisfies various tastes and preferences.
The Elm Street location serves lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times. The lively atmosphere draws in many enthusiastic diners.
The beverage program features both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Southern-style sides complement each entree perfectly. These combinations create satisfying meals that honor tradition while introducing new flavors.
To plan your visit, check current hours and book ahead. The downtown location is easy to access. It’s a great spot for Dallas residents and visitors exploring the city’s food scene.