Monica Greene
Monica Greene
Tell us about yourself and what you do for a living?
I enjoy being a part of the most rewarding, and some say, one of the most challenging professions there are: I am a Restaurateur. I am also an investor in other businesses. I was born in Mexico City, a beautiful convoluted city full of contradictions, like me. I was the first transgender candidate for City Council in the city of Dallas, and also a founding member of The Foundation for Human Understanding in 1994, as well as being a founding member for the North Texas LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
How long have you been living in Dallas?
I arrived to this “Emerald” city at the end of the road in 1974. Somehow, when I first saw the skyline through the wintery weather, I did not know this would become my home for the next 47 years.
What are your favorite places to go for a cocktail and/or dinner?
For a glass of Champagne, go to Parigi in the heart of the Oak Lawn neighborhood and enjoy this longtime favorite of our LGBTQ community. Most people that attend this small but cozy and stylish bistro seem to know each other, plus Parigi offers great food just in case you are hungry. Cocktails eh? Cozy up to the bar at Bowen House for happy hour. The small cocktail lounge in a historically designated home has a small and quaint patio where you can enjoy great Prohibition-style crafted drinks at a reduced price until 5 p.m.
White Rock Lake
Photo: Harmony Gerber
What cultural attractions are a must-see for visitors to Dallas?
The City of Dallas offers a cultural cornucopia of places to enjoy. The Nasher Sculpture Center is an oasis in the middle of an active and vibrant city. Stroll in the gardens while enjoying the collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. Half a mile west of the Nasher, you’ll find The Perot Museum of Nature and Science. It features fascinating exhibits and educational displays that address such topics as the ecosystems of Texas and human evolution. The space also features towering dinosaur skeletons. Our newest addition to this culturally rich community includes the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Located in the west end of downtown, it highlights the injustices of the past with a cautionary tale for generations to come.
A friend is coming to Dallas for the first time…describe the perfect weekend.
First Day: Book yourself a room in The Hotel Zaza in Uptown Dallas. There are too many great hotels in this bustling city, but this area will give you a perfect location for the perfect weekend. Get up early before it gets too hot. Take the free turn-of-the-century electric trolley a few steps from the hotel and go north less than a mile to Bowen Street. Step off the trolley and walk to San Martin Bakery and Restaurant for breakfast. As we all know, patios have become such an essential part of going out to eat nowadays, and this restaurant offers a nice one. The interior is also airy, with lofty high ceilings and real trees inside this beautiful restaurant. The food is Latin with a focus on Guatemalan and Mexican cuisine, and they serve great homemade pastries and fresh ground coffee. Walk back and head to your scheduled massage at the Spa at The Hotel Crescent Court across the street from the Zaza and rejuvenate and relax in one of the nicest spas in the city. An hour later, you are back to your hotel to enjoy their pool for the afternoon while having some cocktails. After a well-deserved nap. Time to party and an early dinner. Up the street, you’ll find Yutaka Sushi Bistro, which is one of the best places for sushi lovers. Yutaka Yamato had extensive experience as a chef at Nobu New York, but he is now the owner of his own restaurant. In 2018, Yutaka Sushi Bistro was named one of the TOP 15 Sushi Bars in the world. A tiny space with about 10 tables at the most and a small but inviting sushi bar, his rare and specialty fish are a must. After dinner, take an Uber and head to Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. A small drive takes you to this beautiful hotel. The bar is “old fashioned” and dark, with great crafted drinks and a sophisticated environment with great service that will require you to dress up a little bit (tie not required). The piano bar is always busy, and it is a great place to people watch.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Photo: Philip Lange
Second Day: Get an early start and go to White Rock Lake and rent a kayak or a paddleboat. After an hour of exercise, take a stroll towards The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. One of the most beautiful outdoor attractions, they feature 66 acres of spectacular display gardens and seasonal flowers, plus sculptures and fountains in a serene setting with expansive views of our city. Brunch should be enjoyed at a large venue with outdoor and indoor seating. The Rustic is a fun place to enjoy the local vibe with free live entertainment. After brunch, take a ride to the historic Bishop Arts District. Stroll around the many independent boutiques and galleries, or simply take a break and enjoy an espresso and pastry on the sidewalk. For dinner, head east to Monica’s for great Mexican (Tex-Mex) food. Enjoy made-to-order health-conscious Mexican food for all to enjoy with great margaritas or mezcal-infused drinks on their comfortable and beautiful patio. After dinner, cross the street to The Canvas Hotel rooftop pool patio and bar. This is truly the best view of the city for sunsets or to glance at the skyline at night. And finally, head to the TMC Disco in the historical gay neighborhood in Oak Lawn. Dance the night away on one of the biggest dance floors you’ve seen, and watch one fabulous drag show full of comedy and great impersonations at the Rose Room.
What are the best places to truly enjoy the natural beauty of the area?
Located south of downtown, the Cedar Ridge Preserve is a part of the Audubon Dallas, and it is great for hiking. A three-mile hike to a bluff overlooking a large pond is a highlight. Thirteen different trails to choose from make this a great place to enjoy the natural beauty in Dallas.
Katy Trail Dallas
Photo: Nick D’Eletto
What is your favorite time of the year and why?
One of the best times to be in Dallas is at the beginning of autumn. The weather is nice, and the largest state fair in the country opens its door. Daily parades and the car show always draw a crowd. There are fireworks every night, an incredible midway with games and rides, and the creative food offered throughout the fairgrounds is wonderful.
What’s one souvenir to bring back for friends or family?
There are too many items from which to choose, including pecan pralines, hand-crafted Dallas-made whiskey bourbon, and handmade tamales. But I think I would settle for some custom handmade cowboy boots.
Don’t leave Dallas without…
Having a picnic on the lawn of Klyde Warren Park in the heart of the city and listening to a free concert in the park.
