Let us Take Care of Dinner – State & Allen Kitchen + Bar

Ever have those nights when you just don’t feel like cooking? 

Yes, us too. And often!

Want gourmet, scratch kitchen food and not just another fast food dinner? 

Then let us take care of dinner! At State & Allen, it’s gourmet cooking in a casual, non-pretentious setting. Whether you’re here for a date night or a family affair, State & Allen Kitchen + Bar has something for everyone. (And it keeps your kitchen clean.)

Gourmet Dallas Entrees

When you’re looking for the best restaurant in Dallas, Texas, you want fresh ingredients. State & Allen always uses fresh ingredients to create some amazing flavor combinations! For dinner, give our Pan Seared Scallops a try, served with roasted corn, pork belly risotto, broccolini, and drizzled in brown butter sauce. Or maybe the Hickory Smoked Quail, coated in a maple-balsamic demi glaze, then served with sweet potatoes gratin. And lastly – if neither of these great Dallas entrees make your mouth water – then what about one of our customer favorites, the Shrimp Fettuccine with homemade pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a smoked fresco cream sauce. So creamy and delicious, there is a reason it’s been a staple on our menu for years! 

Get it Delivered!

Not in the mood to leave the house and don’t want to bother with cooking? State & Allen Kitchen + Bar delivers! As a restaurant that participates in Dallas restaurant delivery, we know ease of ordering is imperative. Simply scroll down on the homepage until you see the Order Online symbol, select your menu options, and follow the simple prompts to checkout. Pretty much everything on our menu is available for delivery: sandwiches, burgers, salads, entrees, soups, appetizers, and more.

So the next time you want a great, gourmet Dallas dinner but don’t want to bother with cooking, join us at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar – the best restaurant in Uptown Dallas!

Texican Thursday + MLB Opening Day = A Winning Combination

It’s MLB Opening Day, and with this gorgeous Dallas patio weather, we can’t wait to dine al fresco and catch a game or two! 

MLB Opening Day couldn’t have landed on a better day of the week either because Thursdays at State & Allen are Texican Thursdays!

What’s Texican Thursday at State & Allen?

Glad you asked! Each day of the week at State & Allen, we offer Dallas daily specials. The specials range from sandwiches, to burgers, to gourmet entrees, and more – and on Thursday – it’s Tex-Mex done the State & Allen way (ahem Texican style). 

What’s on the Menu?

See, here’s the beauty of Texican Thursday. You just never know what the special of the day will be! These are daily specials cooked up fresh in our Dallas scratch kitchen by our chefs. They are not advertised and they are not regular menu items; our Texican Thursday specials are created just for you! 

All the Texican Thursday Specials Available All Day?

Not quite all day, but join us anytime between 11am-4pm to indulge in the best Tex-Mex in Uptown. Expect to see enchiladas, chimichangas, tacos, flautas, and more – you’ll want to be here every Thursday to see what all the fuss is about. 

Grab a Craft Beer to Go with It!

You know what makes that Texican Thursday entrée even better?! Craft beer of course! State & Allen has an extensive menu of craft beer, carefully selected from local breweries – and those not so local – to give you the best selection of craft beer around. Bottled and on tap, just ask your server for details on what’s available today. We promise you won’t be disappointed. 

Join us today – and every Thursday – for Texican Thursdays at State & Allen! We can’t wait to see you at the best restaurant and bar in Uptown Dallas, Texas! 

*Specials and menu items subject to change. Ask your server for current offers. 

Enjoy this Patio Weather with Dallas Drink Specials at State & Allen

It looks like it’s going to be a beautiful week in Dallas, and when the weather gets nice, there is only one place we want to be: on the patio. 

If you’re craving a little Vitamin D – and a tall glass of something cold – then State & Allen Kitchen + Bar has you covered!

Best Patio in Dallas, Texas

We hate to brag, but really – who has a better patio than State & Allen?! Located at the corner of State St. and Allen St., our wraparound patio is perfect for people watching, catching up with friends, and even hanging out with your dog! (Yes, our patio was the first in Dallas to be dog friendly.) Join us for lunch, dinner, brunch, or drinks anytime!

Dallas Drink Specials Everyday at State & Allen

There is something about porch sittin’ that just begs you to have a drink in hand. At State & Allen, we’ve got you covered! With an extensive bar menu, complete with beer, wine, handcrafted cocktails, and more, there is truly something for everyone. And bonus: we’ve got drink specials every day of the week, making that drink even more palatable. Here’s the rundown:

·      Monday-Friday Happy Hour – 3-7pm: Enjoy $3.50 domestics, $4.50 house wines, and $3.50 Triple Threat: New Amsterdam Vodka, Jim Bean Whiskey, and Camerena Tequila. 

·      Tuesday Half Priced Drafts – All Day Long: Our vast selection of draft beer in half price on Tuesdays! Get your favorite local Dallas craft beer, domestics, or imports at a fraction of the price. 

·      Wednesday Half Priced Wine – All Day Long: We call this Winey Wednesday because it’s the perfect night to grab your girlfriends and catch up on all the latest happenings over a glass or two. At half price, who can blame you for making this a weekly event?

·      Thursday $3.50 Moscow Mules – 7pm-Close: There is just something about a mule that everyone loves! Join us on Thursday nights for Moscow mule drink specials and dinner.

·      Friday Happy Hour All Day: Remember those happy hour specials we mentioned above?! Grab them all day on Fridays! 

·      Weekend Brunch Cocktails 10am-3pm: $6 Bloodys, $3 Mimosas, $3.50 Greyhounds, Tequila Sunrises, and Screwdrivers. 

This is just a sampling of all the great Dallas drink specials available at State & Allen! Join us this week for Dallas patio weather and ask your server what the specials are for the full rundown. 

*Specials and menu items subject to change. Please ask your server for current offerings. 

5 Gourmet Sandwiches to Sink Your Teeth Into

Looking for an easy lunch? 

Maybe you want a light dinner?

No, we aren’t talking about the classic pb&j your mom sent you for lunch in 5th grade. 

 We’re talking gourmet, filling, and mouthwatering sandwiches you’ll crave long after the last bite. Here are 5 delicious Dallas sandwiches to sink your teeth into at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar:

1.   Italia Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Ooey gooey grilled cheese gets a makeover and you’re gonna love it! We start with rustic white bread, then load it with fresh mozzarella cheese, spinach, artichoke, tomato, and basil, then grill it up to golden perfection. It’s so good and pairs really well with our venison and Wagyu chili. 

2.   Crispy Pork Belly Cuban Sandwich

Our State & Allen Cuban sandwich is a spectacular twist on the original ham and cheese favorite. Our sandwich features house pickled jalapenos, ham, pickles, swiss cheese, and our house State & Allen mustard. 

3.   Baja Chicken Sandwich

We start with a challah bun, then load it up with tender chicken breast, avocado, corn pico, pepper jack, and our cholula mayo. This fresh flavor combo will have you wishing for warmer weather and days by the pool!

4.   Blackened Fish Sandwich

We could all benefit from adding a little more fish to our diet; why not do it with our blackened fish sandwich?! Flaky white fish, slaw, and a red tartar sauce, all on a challah fun makes this sandwich perfection. Also try it as tacos! 

5.   Curry Chicken Salad Pita

Our curried chicken salad is like nothing you’ve had before, loaded with grapes, toasted pistachios, red bell peppers, spinach, and of course, curry chicken. Pair it with one of our handcrafted cocktails or a craft beer straight from the tap. 

Come to State & Allen this week and try one of these delicious gourmet sandwiches in Dallas, Texas!  

TGIF: Now Head to State & Allen to Celebrate!

TGIF! TGIF! TGIF!

It’s a mantra that rings in our ears as the workday winds down on Friday. 

Ready to celebrate? Here are a few reasons to celebrate with us at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar, everyone’s favorite restaurant and bar in Dallas, Texas:

All Day Happy Hour

Say what? That’s right. Visit us anytime on Fridays and partake in our all day happy hour. Join us for lunch, dinner, or late night – and we’ll keep the happy hour specials flowing. Get great deals on ice cold drafts – including the best local craft beer, domestics, and imports. We also have happy hour specials on your favorite cocktails (Moscow mule, anyone?) and wine too. We pride ourselves on having an extensive wine list, perfectly curated to offer only the best. And when you’re able to get fine wine at a discount, you snag the opportunity! Here’s the current list of Happy Hour Specials, but be sure to ask your server for current details, as the list is constantly evolving:

·      $3.50 Domestics: Enjoy your favorite domestic beer on the cheap! Pair it with a burger or our Friday lunch special. Either way, it’s a great Dallas happy hour special. 

·      $4.50 House Wines: relax and unwind on our beautiful Uptown patio, sipping on the best house wines for just $4.50 a glass.

·      $3.50 Triple Threat: New Amsterdam Vodka, Jim Beam Whiskey, & Camerena Tequila: Mix up your favorite cocktail with one of these spirits, and your wallet will thank you. 

Join us for our Lunch Special!

Our Friday lunch special is sure to please: Beer Battered Fish & Chips for just $8.95! It’s a customer favorite and there’s a reason it’s remained our Friday special for sometime now; it’s that good! Enjoy fresh fish battered in our house beer batter, then crispy fried to perfection. And for just $8.95, you’re getting an amazing Dallas lunch special that barely cost more than fast food. Score!

This Friday, join State & Allen Kitchen + Bar in Dallas, Texas to celebrate. We can’t wait to see you for all day Dallas happy hour and more. 

Now Open: Maple Landing – Brand New Dallas Restaurant

State & Allen is proud to announce we’ve got another baby sister… Maple Landing is here!

What is Maple Landing?

 Maple Landing is a brand new restaurant in the Love Field area, specializing in gourmet burgers, brisket, beer, bourbon, and everything in between. Founded by Jonathan Calabrese and Rhett Dukes (the same founders of State & Allen Kitchen + Bar), you can expect the same quality and scratch kitchen gourmet cooking that you’ve come to love here at State & Allen. 

What’s on the Menu at Maple Landing?

 Maple Landing specializes in burgers and brisket, but this isn’t your typical burger joint. Burgers include Dallas specialty burgers like the Kimchi Burger with Gochujang Spiced Mayo, the Chili Cheese Burger with brisket chili and pickled jalapenos, and the Sunrise Burger with bacon, egg, and cheese. And on the brisket side, you’ll find brisket prepared lots of ways. We love the Pastrami Brisket Sandwich, loaded with kraut, Maple Landing mustard, Swiss cheese, and more. Want something more traditional? You can always order sliced brisket and sausage, and there is nothing the matter with that. 

 In addition to burgers and brisket, Maple Landing also specializes in some pretty killer salads and serves wonderful appetizers and sides to accompany your meal.

What about Dallas Drink Specials?

 Maple Landing is your place for Dallas Happy Hour specials! Get a great deal on your favorite bourbon, wells, craft beers, wine, and more. Ask your server for details and current specials. Happy hour is from 4-7pm Monday-Friday, and all day Saturday & Sunday. 

Grand Opening: Maple Landing in Dallas, Texas!

 Maple Landing is now open and we hope you’ll help us welcome our new sister restaurant! Conveniently located near Love Field, it’s the perfect stop before taking off on a flight or for grabbing a quick lunch during your lunch break. 

Will You Be Our Valentine?!

Love is in the air…

Okay – maybe it’s super commercialized love, but nonetheless, Valentine’s Day is just a week away. Want to know where you can spend Valentine’s Day for a truly memorable, fabulous evening? State & Allen, of course!

Amazing Scratch Kitchen Entrees

Take a few minutes to peruse our Facebook or Instagram pages and you’ll quickly see what all the fuss is about! Our team of chefs don’t make just standard, run-of-the-mill entrees. They are constantly using fresh, local ingredients to create equisite new dishes. How about Pan Seared Scallops with crispy Pork Belly Risotto and roasted corn or Portobello and Goat Cheese Stuffed Ravioli in a white wine sauce? These are just two of the amazing Dallas chef specials our team has created recently. If you want to impress your date this Valentine’s Day – or just want to eat great food with your girlfriends – State & Allen Kitchen + Bar is the place.

Huge List of Handcrafted Cocktails, Wine, Beer, and More

Looking for great Dallas drink specials? Look no further that State & Allen! State & Allen has an extensive list of wine, beer, handcrafted cocktails, premium liquor, and more. Not sure what to order? Our servers can help direct you toward a beverage that would be the best pairing for your meal. And of course, ask about our Valentine’s Day Drink Specials!

Amazing Dallas Patio

One of the things our guests love about State & Allen is the ambiance. Even on a cool evening, we crank up the heaters and the patio is a perfect place for people watching, a charcuterie board, and a glass of vino. Inside, the vibe is warm and welcoming, never stuffy, with a casual elegance perfect for a Valentine’s Day visit. 

Happy Valentine’s Day from your friends at State & Allen!

*Menu and specials subject to change. Ask your server for current specials and menu items.

State & Allen: Where Uptown Dallas Parking is Always FREE!

You guys.

Have you ever driven around Uptown for an eternity looking for the perfect parking spot? Really any parking spot?

Yep. Us too.

But look no further when you’re visiting State & Allen! At State & Allen Kitchen + Bar, we offer free covered parking in our adjacent parking garage. Crazy right?! Read on to learn more –

How Do I Get Free Parking in Uptown Dallas at State & Allen?

It’s simple really. When approaching the restaurant, look for the parking garage entry, either off of State St. or Allen St. You’ll see entrances on the right. Simply follow the signs until you get to the designated parking for State & Allen. We have 45 glorious, covered parking spots available to our customers in this garage! So come rain or shine, you’re covered. (See what we did there.)

How Long Can I Park in the Garage?

Great question. We anticipate our guests normally stay at State & Allen 2-3 hours at a time, so our parking spots are allotted for 3 hour increments. However, should you want to continue the party and stay longer, it’s no problem at all. Simply tell your server and he or she will make arrangements with the right people. You won’t get towed. The party can continue as long as you want. It’s a win/win. 

What Days Can I Park in the Garage?

If State & Allen is open, then you can use the garage! So that’s 7 days a week, we’re open and parking is available to you absolutely free of charge.

Many people don’t know about the amazing party setup we have at State & Allen, so it’s always good to have a little refresher. Join us this week for lunch, dinner, brunch, drinks during happy hour, or a late night pizza. We can’t wait to see you at the best restaurant in Uptown Dallas! 

Dallas Lunch Specials that Take the Chill Off

Brrrr – it’s cold outside!

You know what makes a cold, dreary, January day more bearable! Dallas lunch specials at State & Allen! 

Every day of the week, join us for lunch speicals that are sure to warm you up. It’s delicious comfort food, prepared with the highest quality ingredients in our scratch kitchen, for a freshness you can taste. Join us this week and enjoy one of these delicious Dallas lunch specials:

Monday: Half Priced Pizza 

Mondays are lame, so we’re sweetened the deal on Mondays. Not only can you get our half priced pizza during lunch, but you can get it all.day.long! Join us for lunch, happy hour, or dinner, and enjoy one of our gourmet pizzas at a fraction of the cost. This includes our gluten free options. Each pizza includes gourmet toppings and a homemade pizza sauce made with local Texas tomatoes. 

 

Tuesday: $8.95 Chef’s Special

If there is a day to dine with us for lunch, it’s on Tuesdays. The Chef Special is one of our most popular lunch specials, and it’s easy to see why. For under $10, our chef whips up some amazing gourmet meals. 

Wednesday: $8.95 Shrimp Fettuccine & Fresno Cream Sauce

Our delicious shrimp fettuccine and fresno cream sauce is a customer favorite and one that you can get for a steep discount during the Wednesday lunch hour! What’s more comforting than an amazing shrimp fettuccine dish?!

Thursday: $8.95 Texican Thursday

Chimichangas, tacos, and more – you don’t always know what it’s going to be, but you know it’s going to be good! We reserve Thursdays for discounted Tex-Mex dishes that you won’t want to miss out on. 

Friday: $8.95 Beer Battered Fish & Chips

YUM! Kick off the weekend with a delicious lunch and a craft beer or two! Crispy fish is deep fried to perfection in our homemade batter, then served with freshly cut French fries. 

Saturday & Sunday: Uptown Dallas Brunch Specials

Come on in for lunch between 10am and 3pm and receive great deals on delicious brunch specials – including mimosas, Bloody Marys, and more.

So what are you waiting for? Come see us at State & Allen this week for amazing Dallas lunch specials between 11am-4pm daily. 

*Specials, menu items, and pricing subject to change. Be sure to ask your server for current details. 

A Salad a Day Keeps the Pounds Away.

A salad a day, keeps the pounds away. 

That’s what they say, right?

Okay, maybe not, but we all know that eating your greens and sticking to healthier options (like salad!) help you shed pounds. With New Year’s resolutions fresh and swimsuit season looming just months away, it’s time to kick it in gear. Why not made it a little easier on yourself and enjoy mouthwatering salads at State & Allen.

Salads Don’t Have to be Bland.

Who said salads have to be bland? At State & Allen, our Dallas salads certainly are not. Our chefs change our menu seasonally, working new ingredients and flavor combinations into each aspect of the menu – including salads. You’ll find yummy seasonal options like the Beet & Pecan salad featuring arugula, olives, feta, and a honey pomegranate vinaigrette. Or maybe the Lounge salad is more your speed with mixed greens, avocado, a 7-minute egg, asparagus, and a champagne vinaigrette. Want something different? Then go with the Warm Spinach & Chicken Paillard with wild mushrooms, purple-hulled peas, goat cheese, and more tossed to perfection. Here’s the full selection currently available at State & Allen:

·      The Original Silver Bowl Salad (the most popular salad on our menu!)

·      Mediterranean Salad

·      Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna

·      The Lounge

·      Beet & Pecans

·      Warm Spinach & Paillard

Add in the Protein.

Once you’ve got your veggies squared away, don’t forget to add a protein! Choose between delicious avocado, chicken, shrimp, or a portabella mushroom. 

Join us this week at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar for some of the best salads in Dallas, Texas! And be sure to save a few calories for a drink! Our drink specials change daily, but we’re pretty sure you’ll be impressed with the selection of craft beer, cocktails, liquor, and wine available to pair with your meal.

Mark Your Calendar: Dallas Between the Buns Slider Event

Oh the slider…America’s favorite food in a pint-sized package. But who does it best?

There are so many great restaurants in Dallas, Texas serving up pretty delicious sliders, and so this year the Dallas Observer decided to bring back its slider event for the 2ndAnnual Between the Buns Slider Event. And you know who will be there? State & Allen Kitchen + Bar of course! 

What is the Dallas Between the Buns Slider Event?

The Dallas Observer is going to host the 2nd annual Between the Buns Slider Event. The event will take place on Saturday, March 23, from 4-7pm at the Dallas Farmers Market. 

Wander through the Farmers Market and enjoy sliders of all varieties from over 25 of the best slider restaurants in Dallas! Traditional burger sliders, pulled pork sliders, fried chicken sliders, and more – it’s a great way to spend an afternoon and try some new things. In addition to food, there will be live music and cash bars for cocktails and craft beer. 

Mark Your Calendar for this Fun Dallas Event!

You won’t want to miss this fun Dallas event! Tickets go on sale to the public on January 12 and are expected to sell fast. You can also get in on the pre-sale event by registering here. You can choose to purchase VIP tickets that allow access to the VIP area, free goodies, 3 drink tickets, and early event access, or purchase the general admission ticket that still gets you in for unlimited sliders from all the vendors.

State & Allen Kitchen + Bar – the best restaurant in Dallas, Texas - will be there and we can’t wait to see you at Between the Buns! In the meantime, get your fix on the best sliders in town and amazing burgers by visiting us at the corner of State St. and Allen St. in Uptown Dallas.

Dallas Drink Specials: State & Allen Partners with Pint Hub

Have you heard of PintHub?

PintHub is an awesome new membership service that allows you to experience the best craft beers Dallas has to offer at low prices – or even FREE! Did we get your attention? Read on to learn about how you can get FREE drinks at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar with PintHub.

How Does PintHub Work?

PintHub is craft beer community for beer enthusiasts. Through the PintHub app, members of the service are able to see participating bars and restaurants, learn more about the different types of craft beer, and explore the beer scene around then in new ways. For just $9.99/month, craft beer lovers are able to explore new craft beers and restaurants they may never have known about before.

What about the FREE beer?

Yes, one of the perks of PintHub is that each day, your first beer is free at participating restaurants and bars! So if you come into State & Allen Kitchen + Bar and show us you’re a PintHub member, you can get a free glass of craft beer every single day, no questions asked! Pretty sweet, right?

How Do I Get Started?

Getting started with PintHub is easier that you think!

Step 1: Download the App

The PintHub community is housed in an app that is easily downloadable through the Apple Store or Google Play Store. Simply download the app, pick a membership option, and you’re on your way to free beer and Dallas drink specials.

Step 2: Explore Bars & Restaurants

The app is loaded with resources to explore options for great craft beer in Dallas. Get started, and remember, you’re first beer is on the house at any of the participating restaurants – every single day!

Step 3: Grow the PintHub Community

Every community is better with more people! Invite your friends to join in on the fun and make the community more robust.

3 Reasons We Love State & Allen for a Holiday Date Night

Whether you’re out looking at Christmas lights in Highland Park or getting some last minute shopping in at Northpark or West Village, State & Allen is the perfect place to take a load off and enjoy a wonderful holiday date night in Dallas, Texas. 

1.   Fabulous Gourmet Entrees

Our chefs pride themselves on an innovative menu, constantly combining new flavors and ingredients for delicious favorites reinvented. A few customer favorites include the Three Cheese Manicotti & Venison Bolognese served with roasted asparagus and garlic bread – or the Crab Crusted Salmon with gingered rice, sautéed spinach, all drenched in a lemon soy butter. We’re also partial to the Bourbon BBQ Wagyu Burger if you’re looking for the best burger in town. Pair with a bottle of wine, and your meal is complete.

2.   Handcrafted Cocktails & the Best Bar Menu Around

Pick your poison: scotch, bourbon, wine, craft beer, handcrafted cocktails, and more – State & Allen is proud to offer one of the best bar menus in Dallas. It is one of the reasons we make such a fabulous holiday date night spot. Impress your date with a holiday cocktail (December Daquiri anyone?) or a bottle of wine from our curated wine menu to top off an epic night. 

3.   Best Patio in Uptown Dallas

Yes, we know it’s winter, but we’ll turn the heaters on and you’ll have one of the best seats in the house for people watching and enjoying all the sites and sounds of the season from the best patio in Uptown Dallas. Want to bring your pet along? Don’t forget the patio is always dog friendly! 

State & Allen is the place to be this holiday season to enjoy warm drinks, gourmet comfort food, and the company of those you hold dear. Call or visit us online to reserve your table today.  

State & Allen Gift Cards: The Perfect Stocking Stuffer

That’s right folks – we’re here to make your holiday gift giving a little easier. Brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, co-workers, bosses, Secret Santas, best friends – okay you get the point! – everyone loves gift cards from the best restaurant in Dallas – State & Allen Kitchen + Bar.

Gift Cards are Always the Right Size

We know you can get gift cards anywhere, but why not give a gift card that has a personal touch? State & Allen is proud to bring our guests a fine dining experience without all the fuss. When you give a State & Allen gift card, you’re sharing a delicious gourmet meal with those you love. Whether they’ve been here 20 times or never dined with us, they are sure to find something on the menu that is perfect for them – and you are to thank for giving them a great night out. Scratch kitchen entrees, inspiring appetizers, handcrafted cocktails, huge wine list, and more – State & Allen is more than just another Uptown Dallas restaurant. 

Get a Gift Card Anytime Online!

Sure, you’re interested in a gift card, but have no time to visit us at State & Allen? No problem! Our gift cards are available online; just click here. Order a gift card in $10, $25, or $50 denominations, decide who you’d like to send it to digitally, and voila – easy gift giving! Or plan to email it to yourself and print it out to give physically; that works too. 

Visit us at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar this Holiday Season!

When you need a break from all that hustle and bustle, come see us at State & Allen this holiday season for a drink or two! Craft beer, seasonal cocktails, wine specials, and more – State & Allen is the perfect place for a little holiday cheer. 

Tips on How to Serve up a Sweet Holiday Season

By: Jenny Wise

Santa needs a little help, and it’s time to start counting your dollars for Christmas. It’s also time to start looking at seasonal employment. There’s no better place to apply than your local diner or dive. Keep reading for the answer on how you can put yourself in a better position to land a coveted seasonal situation in the service industry.

The Restaurant Industry Has Potential 

As an entry-level server, you can expect to bring home around $10 per hour when you factor in tips. If you work at a high-end establishment, you have the potential to earn much more. Like other high-paying seasonal jobs, working in the foodservice industry has one important benefit: flexibility. However, it’s not for everyone; being the face of a restaurant and interacting with customers every moment you’re on the clock means you have to be a people person.

A Perfect Fit?

If you’re still thinking that working in a restaurant is a good fit for you, you should know that it’s not as simple as walking in and expecting an immediate job offer. People often mistakenly believe that it’s an easy industry and fail to prepare themselves appropriately. If you do think it’s a good fit, then you should take it seriously. Even though you’re only looking for a seasonal job, many of the same interviewing tips apply as when you’re looking for a more permanent position. First, don’t bring friends with you to drop off your resume. Next, and perhaps more importantly, be prepared for some tough interview questions.

The interview process may be more casual than that of an office or desk job, but it doesn’t mean that you won’t be subject to intense scrutiny. Zety offers many articles that outline potential job interview questions and the best ways to answer them. Monster.com further points out that one of the most frequent types of questioning you’ll hear is asking why you’re interested in a non-permanent position. Be as honest as possible and put some thought into your responses.

Bigger May Be Better

When it comes to finding part-time employment, bigger is better. Chain restaurants may be more likely to have these expendable, temporary positions. This advice applies to retail jobs, too, as big-box stores, such as chain restaurants, get busy during the holiday season. Keep in mind that, as someone that will have to rely on gratuities for the bulk of your income, you may need to prioritize other benefits. Seasonal employment is great if you’re looking to build your resume or want a discount from your favorite store or restaurant.

No Experience Required

One of the biggest draws of working as a server is that there are no formal educational prerequisites. However, depending on where you live, you may be required to undergo food handler training and certification. If you’re going to be serving alcohol as part of your job, specifically if you would like to work as a bartender, you will likely be required to hold licensure before serving any alcoholic beverages to customers. There are many online training courses, and you are not required to have a job to get certified.

Millions of Americans hold part-time jobs, and many of these are exclusive for the holiday season. Remember, there’s no shame in needing to pad your income. Most employers will appreciate your honesty going into it. So, polish your resume, prepare for some tough questions, and invest in a good pair of work shoes. After all, you never know when life will serve up an opportunity to earn a few extra dollars.

How to Roast the Perfect Thanksgiving Turkey

Thanksgiving is just days away…are you ready to roast the perfect bird?

If you’re still nervous about impressing everyone with your beautiful roasted turkey, then State & Allen Kitchen + Bar is here with a few tips from our chefs on how to roast the perfect Thanksgiving turkey:

1.   Brining is a Must

Do not skip this step, as it will be the key to the moist turkey of Thanksgiving dreams. Your brine will likely consist of water, salt, a dash of sugar, and a few other spices you want to infuse into your bird.

2.   Cook the Turkey on a Bed of Vegetables

Sure, you’ve heard of cooking your turkey on a roasting rack, but what about cooking it on vegetables instead? Elevating the turkey leads to a crisp crust all the way around, and the drippings add flavor to the vegetables below. Plus – that’s one less side you have to worry about preparing!

3.   Butter It Up

Before baking your turkey, pat it dry – removing as much moisture as possible – and then rub it down with butter or a butter/olive oil combo. We also love to sneak a few pats of butter underneath the skin to add extra flavor. This leads to crisp, delicious skin on the bird and also helps to protect the tender meat below. 

4.   Don’t Open the Oven During Cooking

It’s so tempting, but do not open the oven while you’re cooking the turkey! Opening and closing the oven door lets heat seep out of the oven and throws off the oven temperature. Instead, just watch the clock and take it out when it’s ready. 

5.   Let  Your Turkey Rest

As with all meat, it’s a good idea to let your perfect turkey rest before cutting into it. Plan on letting it sit out for at least 15 minutes to let the juices redistribute evenly before slicing. 

Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar – the best restaurant in Uptown Dallas!

Veteran's Day Brunch or Pizza – You Choose at the State & Allen

At State & Allen, we are proud of this country, proud of this state, and thankful for our freedom! That’s why we’d like to celebrate this Veteran’s Day with a very special brunch menu and half priced pizza all day! Veteran’s Day is Monday, Nov. 12, and from 10am-3pm, join us for brunch, lunch, or whatever suits your fancy!

Veteran’s Day Brunch at State & Allen

We know some of you have the day off – and others don’t – so we’ll be offering a limited brunch menu. It will consist of some of your favorite brunch items, which will be a great assortment of sweet and savory, eggs and bacon, biscuits, and everything in between. Don’t forget to bring your dog and sit on our patio…dogs are always welcome on the patio! In fact, we were the first restaurant in Dallas to be dog friendly! Oh and one more tidbit…bring your own coffee cup for a free cup of joe! It’s just one of the small ways we try to be more green.

Half Priced Pizza All Day at State & Allen

Have you had the pizza at State & Allen? If not, this is your chance to try some of the best pizza in Dallas! Sure, people rave about our Dallas brunch, but if you’re in the mood for lunch – not brunch – on Veteran’s Day, go for the pizza! Make it just the way you like it or choose from one of our specialty pizzas. Our sauce is homemade with fresh, local tomatoes and gluten free crust is available too! 

We look forward to seeing you on Monday, Nov. 12, for Veteran’s Day at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar in Dallas, Texas! Don’t forget that brunch is served from 10am-3pm and half priced pizza is served all day long! 

New Fall Favorites: What’s On Tap at State & Allen?!

State & Allen is known for our premier selection of wine, spirits, and craft beer, but did you know you can check out taphunter.com any time you are wondering what’s on tap at State & Allen? We update our selection frequently, bringing you the best beer in Dallas, at prices that won’t break the bank. 

Want to learn more about what’s on tap now at State & Allen? Here are a few Fall favorites you’ve got to come in and try:

Oak Highlands Oktoberfest

 Brewed right here in Dallas, Texas, Oktoberfest is the tastes and aromas of Fall bottled up in one great beer. We love the copper color, rich malt, and mild hops in this flavorful beer.

Spaten Optimator

 A true dark German beer hailing from Munich, the Spaten Optimator packs a punch! The rich roasted malt lingers with each full bodied sip, making it the perfect beer to take the chill off on a cold Fall day. 

Goose Island 2017 Bourbon County Brand Stout

 Love bourbon? Then give the Bourbon County Brand Stout from Goose Island a try! Goose Island touts that “one sip has more flavor than your average case of beer.” You be the judge! Each batch is bourbon barrel aged, resulting in a smoky mixture of charred oak, vanilla, caramel, and chocolate in each sip.

Alamo Amber Lager

 This Vienna-style lager from Alamo Beer Co. is silky smooth with a rich amber hue and a mild flavor, making it the perfect complement to one of our State & Allen burgers, filet mignon, shrimp fettuccine, or even beer battered fish & chips. 

Half Priced Drafts on Tuesdays!

 Want to know how you can get a great deal on these – and other – amazing draft beers? Join us on Tuesdays at State & Allen for half price drafts! All day long, it’s all half price. Pair it with our Tuesday lunch special, and you’ve really got a deal.

State & Allen Appetizers: Start Your Meal Off Right

It’s a well-known fact that the appetizers generally set the tone for the meal to come. Some restaurants get a little sloppy with their appetizer menu, but not State & Allen! We offer delicious small bites that are perfect as meal starters, paired with drinks for happy hour, or alone as a small meal. Here are a few fan favorites you’re sure to love the next time you visit us at State & Allen – the best restaurant in Uptown Dallas:

Crispy Pork Belly Tostadas

 Start your meal with a little Tex-Mex, as we serve delicious pork tostadas topped with southwestern kimchi, peach chipotle jam, and crema. Fresh and unique, these tostadas will have you craving the next course. 

Triple Dip

Our Triple Dip is just as it sounds, and always a crowd pleaser. Order a combination of Southwest hummus, spinach artichoke dip, and tomato-feta salsa. It’s served with big bowls of pita and chips so you can dip to your heart’s content.

Cheese & Charcuterie Boards

When it comes to happy hour, one of our favorite food pairings are the cheese and charcuterie boards. The cheese board is great with wine, loaded with artisanal cheeses, candied walnuts, grapes, pickled blueberries, etc. The charcuterie board is great with cocktails; each board is loaded down with savory favorites like cured meats, olives, peach chipotle jam, gherkins, mustard seed, and more.

S&A Chicken Strips 

 Now here’s a dish that gets ordered regularly as a meal – particularly at lunch time. A traditional favorite, each cut of chicken is marinated, then rolled in our nine herb and spice breading before hitting the fryer, creating the best chicken strips around. Add fries and a glass of craft beer, and you’ve got a full meal. 

Start your meal off right with starters at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar! Visit us this week and order one of these – or other favorites from our menu. We can’t wait to see you for lunch, dinner, happy hour, brunch, or late night.

Perfect Dallas Girls Night: Wine Glass Painting at State & Allen!

Looking for something fun and different to do with your girlfriends?

 

How about painting wine glasses at State & Allen?!

Wine Glass Painting at State & Allen

Join State & Allen on Tuesday, October 23 from 7-8:30, for our wine glass painting event. Our friends at Le Painted Grape will be here to walk you through a step-by-step process to creating your own beautiful work of art on a wine glass. Display it or drink out of it – the choice is yours! The October theme will be “Pumpkin Spice” so it’s sure to be something fun and perfect for Fall. 

Tickets to the event are $33.46 each and include all of the supplies, wine glass, and instruction needed to create your masterpiece. Worried because you’ve never painted before? Le Painted Grape will give you all the tools you need to go home with a fun work-of-art with no experience required! This is just a chance to have fun with your friends and enjoy a little vino while you’re at it.

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Order Dinner & Drinks at State & Allen

Speaking of vino…the event does not include food or drinks, but you can order those separately either while you’re painting, before, or after the event. State & Allen has a robust selection of red, white, and sparkling wines to choose from, along with an extensive menu of scratch kitchen, gourmet food that is absolutely mouthwatering. Try one of our bistro entrees, salads, sandwiches, or order a few appetizers for the table. Just be sure to save room for dessert too!

Ready to have some fun? Grab a few friends and make plans to join us for a Dallas girls’ night at State & Allen Kitchen + Bar! Order tickets now for the Le Painted Grape Wine Glass Painting Event on October 23 at 7pm.