Dakotas Steakhouse - Dallas, TX

Dakota's was established in 1984 and has been a downtown Dallas dining icon for over 25 years. Dakota's unique underground location has an interesting story behind it. It is located one level below street level on a section of real estate that was once occupied by the First Dallas Baptist church. There is a legally binding clause in the deed that prohibits any future owner from selling alcohol on former church grounds. Because "on the grounds" and "below ground" are two different terms, and because Lincoln Property Company wanted a restaurant to anchor their international headquarters, land was excavated and the restaurant was placed 18 feet below street grade.

Customers ride down to Dakota's in a canopied glass elevator accessed from street level while viewing the 1,800 square-foot outdoor subterranean courtyard. This cool oasis is complete with a 5-tiered granite water wall, multi-tiered landscaping, lava rock fire fit and black granite bar. Dakota's patio has long been considered one of the city's most romantic dining spots.

So why “Dakota’s?” The name was chosen in homage to the eight million pounds of Dakota mahogany granite that was used throughout the restaurant and Lincoln Plaza. (from http://www.dakotasrestaurant.com)