Combine a stellar ambiance with distinctive cuisine and you have Al Biernat’s restaurant on Oak Lawn Avenue. The restaurant provides an exceptional experience that begins right after pulling into the parking lot. Passing by numerous old, fancy sedans gives one the feeling of being in an old movie. Once inside the 10-year-old restaurant, it is hard to not be taken aback by the beautiful scenery.
A half-moon bar that sits below a giant dome, covered with intricately painted colored orbs, is only the beginning of a great dining experience. After stopping to admire the craftsmanship of the bar, one is brought back to reality by the rumble of the crowd. The restaurant is loud, filled with the chatter of guests and servers. Background music keeps moods elevated. From Britney Spears to The Rolling Stones, the rock ‘n’ roll jams set the scene for enjoyment.
Next, one is greeted by the owner, Al Biernat. It is impossible to ignore his grace as he walks around saying hello to veteran guests and welcoming first-timers. Being escorted to a table is like walking through time. The way to the table is a maze through Japanese-style partitions that separate tables through giant columns with Corinthian flair. The low lights cause a glow, creating a setting rare to the restaurant world. The caliber of service at Al’s proves to be an experience of its own.
To fully enjoy the Al Biernat’s experience, come with an empty stomach. The menu is full of classic dishes with a special twist. From start to finish, a meal at Al’s will leave one stuffed yet hoping for more, beginning with the appetizers.
The tempura battered prawns, served with a honey mustard vinaigrette-dipping sauce, are a perfect opening act to a performance of food that results in total satisfaction. Similarly, the lump crab cakes, served with horseradish, whole grain mustard and tomato jam are flaky and delicious. If visiting Al’s in a big group, enjoy an appetizer sampler, complete with tempura battered prawns, lump crab cakes and spicy potato-crusted calamari. The sampler is the perfect array of tastes that gives a wider glimpse into all the restaurant has to offer.
Next comes the salad. Colossal in size, a half-portion is more than enough. Take “the wedge” for example: half of a crisp head of lettuce drizzled with bleu cheese dressing and crumbles, bits of bacon and diced tomato readies the palate for what is to come.
The grilled specialties and entrees are traditional, yet modern, with sides that serve to be ideal companions. Of all the choices, nothing stands out in decadence more than a special meal that is not listed on the menu: a eight-ounce filet mignon resting on garlic mashed potatoes, accompanied by three giant prawns and asparagus all covered in a béarnaise sauce. The tender meat melts in your mouth while the giant prawns have a kick that keep your attention. Match this meal with one of the mouth-watering sides such as the creamy lobster risotto or the whipped sweet potatoes that have a perfect balance of salty and sweet.
Save room for dessert -the artwork of Al Biernat’s. The dessert list gives an array of choices. Choose something like the chocolate ice cream bomb. This dessert, chocolate malted ice cream with a truffle center, is reminiscent of something royalty would eat. On the leaner side, the assorted selection of homemade ice cream and sorbet, also serve as a great finale to a colorful evening of food.
While the prices are on the higher side, ranging in price from $29 for a 12-ounce North Atlantic salmon up to $68 for a 10-ounce Kobe beef filet mignon, a trip to Al Biernat’s is worth the expense. The great service, attractive atmosphere and remarkable food make it a must for Dallas residents and visitors alike.
