My favorite thing about the pain perdu, or French toast, at Pangea Dallas, besides the dressed-up name, are the crispy edges.
Photos by Janecze Wright, Fort Hood Public Affairs
DALLAS — For me, any weekend trip I take is never complete without an indulgent brunch.
On one of my many jaunts to Dallas, I accompanied a friend to Pangea Dallas, a lively restaurant that is in the Pacific Place building downtown, a little over two hours from The Great Place.
The shrimp and grits entree at Pangea Dallas features plump shrimp and creamy grits with fresh tomatoes.
Walking in, I was greeted by an abundance of natural light, greenery and a distinctly bohemian vibe. Rattan light fixtures emitted warm lighting and decorative details created an earthy and contemporary combination that presented as upscale but welcoming.
Through my research of the restaurant (yes, I do my research), I found that Pangea Dallas prides itself on offering a global dining experience for its patrons and that was reflected not only in the décor, but in the menu.
The closed-in patio at Pangea Dallas offers patrons a comfortable al fresco dining experience that brings the outside in.
Dishes such as Suya chicken seasoned with traditional African spices; jerk roasted lamb shank, marinated and braised in jerk spices; fried Asian dumplings served with citrus ponzu sauce; and Coq Au Vin (a French dish of chicken braised in red wine) take guests on a culinary trip around the globe without leaving their seats.
But I digress. I was there for brunch, but you can see how easy it is to deviate among so many international delights.
The vibrant blue bar stools and graphic floor tiles of the bar at Pangea Dallas pop against the muted tones throughout the restaurant.
The oxtail and grits and pain perdu, French toast dressed up with a fancy moniker, mirrored the global theme for brunch, and I was ready to stamp my culinary passport.
I was in the mood for something sweet, decadent and filling, so I ordered the pain perdu. It came adorned with fresh strawberries, a light dusting of powdered sugar and plenty of butter and syrup on the side. I also ordered soft-scrambled eggs and turkey sausage to round out my meal.
My companion ordered shrimp and grits, which featured plump shrimp swimming in a pool of creamy grits. While it looked amazing, I was unable to taste it due to my shellfish allergy. Ultimately, it received rave reviews.
What I enjoyed most about the pain perdu, besides the fancy name, were the crispy, almost charred edges. I’m not quite sure what it is, but if you know, you know. In keeping with the French theme, I can only describe the pain perdu as magnifique!
The food was delicious, but more than that I enjoyed the connection between the food, culture and atmosphere.
From its diverse menu to its inviting ambiance, the restaurant creates a setting that makes dining feel special.
And if you would prefer to enjoy your meal outside, the restaurant offers a closed in patio with lush greenery that brings the outside in.
The blend of international flavors and contemporary style leaves a lasting impression, making it a memorable addition to downtown Dallas and a restaurant worth considering for your next dining experience.
I’ve stamped my culinary passport for brunch — my next culinary destination is dinner!
Brunch at Pangea Dallas is from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and there is a dedicated brunch menu.
Visit pangeadallas.com for more information.