Romancing the Roads (10 page)

Warwick Melrose Hotel

3015 Oak Lawn Ave.

214-521-5151

www.melrosehoteldallas.com

This charming boutique hotel, built in 1924, is only slightly out of the downtown area. I adored this property at first sight. My staying there was a fluke, but I am delighted I did. I was in the middle of a cross-country odyssey, when my agenda changed. I was to arrive in Dallas and needed a place to stay, and the Melrose was suggested. To obtain a spur-of-the-moment reservation in one of the 184 rooms was a wonderful experience.

The Melrose is off the main drag and rather clandestine, yet friendly and gracious. Can I say more? On-site parking is convenient. I was informed that the hotel has a complimentary car service to downtown.

Check-in was perfect. I was taken to my room, and immediately I felt at home. All the modern amenities that you could wish for in a room were in place, including a few that caused me to reflect on younger days growing up in a city apartment with high ceilings, layered moldings, push-button light switches, inlaid floors, and glass doorknobs.

The
Libr
ary Bar
(214-224-3152, www.landmarkrestodallas.com), an “in” meeting place, has been voted the best piano and martini bar in Dallas. It serves one hundred different varieties of martinis. There is also live entertainment.

The
award-winning
Landmark Restaurant
(214-224-3152, www.landmarkrestodallas.com) is comfortable for all and serves American fare with many European touches. A Sunday champagne brunch is a nice way to start the week. Stay at the Warwick Melrose and experience this gem of a property.

Mansion on Turtle Creek

2821 Turtle Creek Blvd.

214-559-2100

www.mansiononturtlecreek.com

I always enjoy this wonderful property. Originally a private home, this stately, award-winning hotel is one of distinction and decorum. The restoration of the Sheppard King Mansion, which sits on just over four acres, has been extremely well done.

Upon entering the property, you delight in the feeling of a private home of ultra dimensions. The original owner, Mr. King, was a son of a Confederate Civil War veteran who had many successful enterprises. Unfortunately, in 1935 the Kings lost their fortune. The property had several owners, then Caroline Rose Hunt and the Rosewood Property Company purchased the King mansion in 1979. What a wise move! The property was enhanced in the 1980s by a 142-room hotel tower.

Elegant, superb, sophisticated: the Mansion is supreme. The spacious rooms are beautifully decorated in quiet, upscale appointments and colors. The small patio off of some of the rooms is delightful. You will never feel on your own at the Mansion (unless that is your wish) as the staff is always available to help.

Originally the dining room of the King
Mansion, the
Bar
is a great place! The hunting-themed art and the ambiance make it a favorite of mine. The bar is a good place to people watch, imagining what might be his or her claim to fame as you sip on one of the Bar’s cocktail revivals, such as the Jack Ras, Blue Moon, Monkey Gland, Corpse Reviver, and more!

The
Mansion Restaurant
(214-443-4747) is situated in the mansion’s former living room. For more than twenty years, this was Chef Dean Fearing’s domain, where his southwestern cuisine was applauded. He has since opened his dream restaurant. Now at the helm of the Restaurant since 2009 is Bruno Davaillon, who brings outstanding credentials and creative acumen to the Mansion. As he was raised on a farm in the Loire valley in France, his penchant for fresh ingredients and simple but exceptional fare is most understandable. He has won many accolades. The Mansion’s signature tortilla soup and lobster tacos remain. I have always enjoyed dining at the Mansion, savoring every morsel and the beautiful surroundings.

Driving Diva Factoid:
When I first visited the Mansion, the dress code was old-world, and I immediately gave the establishment a big, bright platinum star. A sign of the times (unfortunately), my star has dulled. Now, the Bar permits jeans. In the Restaurant, the dress code is casual elegant or business casual. I don’t think jackets and ties are required. So sad!

Hotel ZaZa

2332 Leonard St.

214-468-8399

www.hotelzaza.com

This property, whose colorful reputation preceded my arrival, was definitely worth a visit, even though I couldn’t spend the night. It is eclectic, funky, boutiquey, colorful, bohemian, and sensual. You feel as if you are in another country. Get the picture?

I was shown a few rooms. Very attractive, they look like upscale display rooms, and each is themed—for instance, there are the Texas Suite, Medusa Suite, Erotica Suite, Zen Suite, and Shag-a-delic Suite.

In the years since I visited, a lot of touch-ups and tweaks have been done, but from all I have gleaned, the ZaZa’s unique combinations in decor and ambiance have not been lost—only enhanced and improved.

Amelia’s Place

1108 S. Akard St., No. 13

214-421-7427

Told to check out this place out, I asked a friend (Ms. Carolyn C.), who is a Dallas resident, about it, and she said, “I’ll take you there. It will speak for itself.”

What I read on the Internet didn’t intimidate me: a so-called bed-and-breakfast in an old factory building owned by Louisiana native, Amelia C. Jenkins. She receives huge raves for her huge breakfasts. I also read that there are six guest rooms decorated in their own style, each named for a woman who has made a contribution to Dallas. It still didn’t sound too bad. As of this writing, I find that the rooms have been rearranged.

My friend and I arrived on
Young Street
, and I was glad I was not alone. It looked a little sketchy. We entered through a curious door, reminiscent of a speakeasy, and walked up the stairs to be greeted by the bohemian-eclectic and friendly Amelia. Looking around, we were informed that the other guests had just left and that they had had quite a stay. I would not question the latter for a split second. I felt like I was in a fraternity house after a big weekend. We walked around, thanked Amelia, and left.

You are on your own for this one.

Shopping

The Dallas
woman knows how to dress and, of course, how to shop.

Neiman Marcus

1618 Main St.

214-741-6911

www.neimanmarcus.com

The original Neiman Marcus is located just two blocks from the Adolphus. Of course, the downtown Neiman Marcus was the fashion center for years. Mr. Marcus knew what was wanted and presented ultra as well as regular fashions to his adoring public.

I find there’s something special about the original Neiman Marcus, all of these stores offer an experience to enjoy. Temptation too! In the original
Neiman Marcus, the
Zodiac Restaurant
(214-573-5800) is on the sixth level. I adore this restaurant and would not miss having lunch here when in Dallas. It reminds me of an upscale department store tearoom, the kind that was prevalent in department stores in the 1950s. When my mother took me to one, I would wear a dress, Mary Jane patent leather shoes, and a big bow in my hair. There would often be a casual fashion show. Those department store tearooms were wonderful, but they too are a thing of the past. Thank goodness at least the Zodiac remains. The soups are a great starter, but unless it will be your meal, only get a cup. Whether you order a salad or a sandwich, you will not be disappointed. I cannot resist the signature oversized popovers that are placed on the table along with freshly made strawberry butter. Oh my! The Zodiac is a delight, and as they say, “You can feast in fashion.”

Just going from floor to floor in Neiman Marcus is a delight and an experience. Look carefully. There is so much to see, consider, and enjoy.

Clothes Circuit

6105 Sherry Ln., Preston Center

214-696-8634

www.clothescircuit.com

With the motto “Decidedly Upscale Resale,” this serious consignment shop is well run and organized. Its founder and owner, Irene Mylan, arrived in Dallas in 1983 with her law professor husband and two young daughters. Her mother had introduced her to “upscale resale fashions” in California when she and her sisters were young. Here in Dallas, every day hundreds of hand-selected items are strategically placed to tempt and delight—and these aren’t just any items! These are designer and top-of-the-line. This fun place is full of treasures.

Buffalo Exchange: New & Recycled Fashions

3424 Greenville

214-826-7544

www.buffaloexchange.com

Also a serious resale store, the Buffalo Exchange was started in Tucson, Arizona, by Kerstin and Spencer Block in 1974. Kerstin’s love of fashion and the scavenger challenges of finding great bargains led to the creation of a company that now has twenty-eight stores, three franchises in twelve states, and over $43 million a year in sales. Indeed, this is a serious enterprise! Buffalo Exchange has a history and an interesting purpose. Check the website; perhaps there is a store in your area. Lucky!

Note:
Check the phone book or the Internet if you are an avid consignment shopper. In cities where the women preen and pride themselves in wonderful adornments, you will find treasures at these resale haunts.

FYI:
Gaylord Texan is in
Grapevine
, between Dallas and
Ft. Worth
.

Gaylord Texan Hotel & Convention Center

1501 Gaylord Tr.

817-778-1000

www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-texan

I would not include it except I have this info from the most reliable source. It is a special, almost over-the-top resort, and the food was absolutely exceptional.

Leaving Dallas always gives me a little twinge. I really like the Big D.

Driving Diva’s Chance Findings

Sidenote:
One might wonder how I have discovered some of the places included in this book. Some certainly weren’t planned and proved bona fide discoveries. The following is an excellent example. It is a unique find that proved a true and enjoyable serendipity.

I have driven from Dallas to Santa Fe via several different routes. This time, desiring a new route, I studied the map and tried to discern what of interest might be along the way. My study didn’t present a lot. How I found
Turkey
, Texas, I am truly not sure. Turkey, as tiny as its name is on the map, popped out at me. It was on the way to Santa Fe—sort of. I looked up Turkey on the Internet, saw that it was indeed there, and thought, Why not go for it! I started to plan and learn and wonder.

Driving Diva’s Note:
The Turkey, Texas, experience was special and good. I share, and I hope you enjoy and perhaps visit this special place.

Turkey (Population Approximately 553)

Named for
the wild turkeys that lived along the creek, this was a railroad town from where many cattle, grains, and cotton were shipped. I also found out that
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
(www.palodurocanyon.com),
Caprock Canyons State Park
, and the
Grand Canyon of Texas
are all near Turkey. See
Texas Parks & Wildlife
(www.tpwd.state.tx.us). There is a lot to learn about this little place called Turkey.

The King of Western Swing, Bob Wills, was raised on a farm just north of town, and there is now a
Bob Wills Museum
(www.bobwills.com). A monument to the star is at the western end of
Main Street
. Thousands attend a large annual event held the last Sunday in April. Turkey is considered the Western Swing Capital of the World. There is a hotel: the
Turkey Hotel
.

I called and spoke with the then owner, Mona Boles, a most articulate and enthusiastic woman. Deciding that I must see this discovery in person, I reserved a room. Rates ranged from $50 to $80 (then).You can also rent the entire hotel for $1,200 per night. I thought, Can this be? I didn’t need a confirmation number and was told that they looked forward to my arrival. I continued to wonder what was I getting into but consoled myself by saying, “They did have a telephone. They spoke English. They were on the Internet and were found at K-5 on the Texas map in the Rand McNally Atlas.”

Investigating the Internet information a little bit more, I selected “What’s Nearby?” “Nearby Restaurants,” “Nearby Accommodations,” “Nearby Museums,” “Nearby Attractions.” The reply in each case was, “We are unable to locate any . . .”

I was now filled with curiosity and a bit of determination to see this place at K-5 on the map. A friend, Angela M., had met me in Dallas and would be with me for the next week or so. I had sent her a printout of the travel agenda. Dallas was one thing, but I knew she was not too sure about Turkey. What had her friend gotten her into? She confessed, however, that she too was sort of curious about my discovery.

Beginning the discovery: As we left Dallas, the interstate was busy into
Denton
(population about 66,000), and then traffic thinned out. Once we passed Wichita Falls (population about 96,000), the road was fairly empty.

At
Vernon
(population about 12,000), a KFC loomed, and lunch was obtained. Now we were on
Hwy 287
. The next town was
Quanah
(population about 3,000). Populations were definitely dwindling. We stopped on Highway 287 at
Past & Present: Antiques & Collectibles.

Past & Present

1800 E. Eleventh St.

940-663-6300

Then we drove on to
Childress
(population about 5,000). Still on U.S. 287, we stopped at the Wild Plum.

Wild Plum West: Unique Home Furnishings & Accessories

1101 Ave. F NW

940-937-6565

Along the way there were other nice-looking shops for those who decide to stop.

In this new area, which can be considered remote, it is a good idea to double-check every so often to be certain you are on the right road. Yes, off of Highway 287, you take “Road Highway 86” to Turkey. Oh! And it is a long road! It’s a good road but has few services and few houses. “You is out there a-lone.” This is not a night road for visitors . . . maybe for the locals.