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Dragonfly

By Jim White

Dragonfly rocks.  The Stephan Pyles consulted restaurant in the hip, new Hotel ZaZa is hot.  The place sizzles with scene makers and scene seekers sipping cool cocktails of various hues.  The contemporary crowd fills the bar early.  By nightfall, a dazzling cacophony fills the dining room and all of the environs of this eclectic blend of Asian, Mediterranean and Moroccan influences.  Oh, come with me to the casbah.  We could make such beautiful music together. 

The setting is sultry and sophisticated.  Fabrics drape the walls and light fixtures of the elevated dining room. Next to the bar, a line of banquettes and high backed booths accommodate diners and the late night overflow of imbibers.  Ceiling murals suggesting mystical symbolism from Southern Asia are juxtaposed with the high definition plasma TV screening of “Goldfinger”.  Just floors removed from the Hotel ZaZa’s “Shagadelic Suite”, Dragonfly transcends time and space.  This is the place for passionate partiers and serious foodies.  Star chef Mr. Pyles has assembled a stellar cast of players to provide for all their desires.

Maitre d’ George Majdalani who worked with Chef Pyles at Star Canyon and recently helmed operations for the M Crowd—including Mercury and Paris Vendome—runs a tight ship.  Hospitality and service are first rate at Dragonfly.

Executive Chef Jeff Moschetti—recently of Hotel Crescent Court—hails from San Francisco and shines with the Asian influenced Mediterranean menu designed by Stephan Pyles. 

Great sushi and fresh shellfish are among the tempting array of appetizers.  You, like us, may find it hard to decide. We asked if chef would mind creating a sampler.  We were gladly obliged.  Now, we were recognized and welcomed warmly to the restaurant, but I suspect this kind concession will be made for you as well.  They are keen on pleasing their patronage at Dragonfly.  Three recommended starters were neatly prepared and plated for our convenience.  I’ve got to rave about the best calamari dish I’ve tried.  At Dragonfly it’s served with Asian greens and a sweet and sour chile sauce—spectacular and with a nice kick.  Pot stickers are served with lobster butter and watercress pear salad.  Each bite tasting better than the last.  The third was a wonderful Tea-Smoked chicken salad with Asian pears, sweet and candied cashews and arugula.  This could qualify as a signature dish at Dragonfly. 

Main courses are equally compelling.  Two dishes—one by land and one by sea—are offered for couples.  The whole roasted Mediterranean fish with artichokes and caper brown butter, and the Prime Rib Steak with oven roasted vegetables and the piled high onions rings Stephan made famous at Star Canyon.  We savored every bite of the slow cooked salmon served with pancetta and orange-scented lentils.  I had to try one of the Moroccan inspired Tagines—or stew—made with tender chicken, garlic and black olives.  Lamb and shellfish versions are also offered.

The wine list is approachable and offers great range.  Wisely, a number of Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blancs and Rieslings are offered to match the spicy cuisine. The staff is very well trained on the list and can offer knowledgeable recommendations.  I’d like to see a few more wines by the glass offered. 

Desserts shine at Dragonfly.  Start at the top of the list and work down.  None will disappoint. By the way, the chilled coconut lemongrass soup with a warm pineapple dumpling is at the top of the list, and halfway down is the warm baklava bread pudding with intoxicating brown butter honey basted pears.  Ummm!

Dragonfly is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  All the menus offer the same level of creative and delicious dishes. 

Dragonfly is a great location for a power business breakfast or lunch, and as previously stated, a stunning new entrant on the Dallas dining scene.

On the KRLD Restaurant Show Review Scale of One to Five Forks, Dragonfly rates 4 and a Half Forks.

Food is 4 and a Half Forks

Service is 4 and a Half Forks

Atmosphere is 4 Forks

Price is expensive.  Dinner entrées range from $18 to $28--$48 for the prime rib steak for two; lunch options are $8 to $14—with some tasty comfort food and sandwiches being offered—and breakfast prices are generally $9 to $15 with a scrumptious omelet, Eggs Benedict, waffles, pancakes and a savory smoked salmon cheese cake with bagel crisps among the eye-opening choices.

Dragonfly is located at Hotel ZaZa in the Uptown Area of Dallas.  The address is 2332 Leonard Street.  Reservations are strongly recommended.  Phone 214-550-9500.  Visit their website for more at www.hotelzaza.com. 

Send me an Email: jwdineline@aol.com