Cafe Momentum was such a great experience in Dallas! I had the smoked fried chicken and the shrimp toast, and both were delicious. The shrimp was perfectly seasoned, and the fried chicken was incredibly crispy and full of flavor. The manager greeted us and was very accommodating with our large party. I apologize that I don't remember his name, but I truly appreciated his hospitality. Our server Zay was also amazing and provided great service. The food, atmosphere, and staff made this a memorable visit. Definitely a spot worth checking out! read more

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Cafe Momentum is an amazing restaurant! We decided to go for dinner and enjoyed their house-made bread basket, stacked enchiladas, and Texas sheet cake. Everything was delicious and we loved learning about their mission and the impact their work is having on so many people. Their restaurant is also filled with their philosophy and the artwork of their community. read more

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Outstanding food and great service! Downtown hidden treasure with an upscale dining experience. A nonprofit restaurant for a worthy cause that involves a justice involve youth program. read more

A unique experience in an eatery with a great mission! See the bottom of this review for their mission statement. We came for dinner on a Saturday night and it wasn't crowded at all. We were greeted nicely by their trainees and seated very promptly. I felt their menu is a bit limited but we liked the salmon and the salads. Decent wines and nonalcoholic drinks. I liked their ginger beer. Very attentive service and nice ambiance. Overall a pleasant experience! Below is what I copied from their mission booklet: ---------- Café Momentum is a national nonprofit working to create the space for justice-involved youth to develop and live their full potential. We go where we see opportunity to make a difference, with an ever-expanding network of award-winning restaurants and culinary training facilities for youth ages 15-19. Not only do our youth learn food service industry skills, they become connected to a larger community that becomes mutually invested in their progress, their careers and their lives. Restaurants alone can't change the juvenile justice system, but they can change a community and the futures of those who belong to them - one meal, one person, one mind at a time. read more

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The incredible mission is what brought us in, the intentionality of service made us stay, and the food encouraged me to leave this review. My colleagues and I stopped in because we had met some of the coordinators and interns behind Cafe Momentum and were ultimately inspired by what they do. What's more is how great the food is. We tried the bread basket, smoked fried chicken, and pappardelle. All were deliciously complex in taste and texture. Give Cafe Momentum a try, you won't regret it! read more

Have been wanting to try this place for awhile and it was wonderful! I love that it serves delicious food and also gives less privileged teenagers a chance to turn their life around. My husband had the steak cooked medium rare, it was perfect! I had the smoked fried chicken with mashed potatoes and greens. I normally don't even care for biscuits and gravy but their gravy was so delicious I could literally eat a bowl of it. The chicken was so tender and moist. The collard greens had great seasoning but were a tad salty. Still tasty though! Despite that, I ate everything cause the food was that good! My husband and I will be back. read more

The service is amazing. They have a complimentary valet. That night when i came, there was only 1 valet staff. There was a wedding party next door that also used the complimentary valet. The valet service was slow. There is self parking as well. The restaurant is clean and great for special occassion. The fried chicken with mashed potato and collard green is absolutely delicious! The squash casserole is a bit salty. Other than that, i had a great experience. read more

Cafe Momentum Dallas - Fried Chicken - New American Near Me - Dallas, Texas

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Though I had a lovely interaction with the hosts and also the lovely young lady who was refilling my water glass, I felt completely ignored by the rest of the staff. I had a gentleman stop by the table. See if I wanted anything. I said oh yes, I would like a glass of iced tea as I do not drink. He rushed off and told me oh your server will get that , at which point I thought maybe he might've given my server a nudge letting them know. I was ready to go as my menu was sitting on the table and not in my hand.. I waited, got another glass of water from the nice young lady with my menu on the table and still nobody approached. Then a young man approached the table next to me, that table had been seated after me. The two gentlemen still having their menus in their hands, the young man interrupted them to see if even though they were still perusing their menus if they were ready to order? Well, I grew up working in restaurants at every level of service and I know I was giving all the cues that would lead anybody in that restaurant to know I was ready to order. know my problem going in any restaurant is that I am a single woman and so the least valuable customer any restaurant could want. However growing up in restaurants I have great respect for wonderful service and good food. though I'm not going to sit and be ignored and think I'm going to have a good experience.. I got my things. I walked by the host station and wished a nice evening and walked out the door to a taco place across the street and got myself a burrito. There I was taken care of immediately, kindly, respectfully and deliciously. read more

Following the Texas OU game in Dallas, we were looking for a restaurant away from the congestion of the fair and found on Yelp this intriguing restaurant in downtown. Yelp reviews all alluded to a movement within the great dining experience. I talked my group into checking out the message. I would love to share the details of what that momentum is but I feel it is best that you trust your gut if interest is peaked to hear it from them yourself. On to the benefit for the diner- the food is super fresh from some local food partners. So fresh that you can almost get a hint of soil in your lettuce. Seasonal menu based off of local availability, we had the fall menu. I started with the Beet and Burrata salad that was my favorite part. The medley of flavors from tangy to spicy to sweet and salty was one of those dishes you look up so you can make it at home. Mmmmm still thinking about how tasty. The green salad looked so fresh with ample amount mounded on the plate. For main course our table had the strip steak (very good), the pasta ( homemade) which my Italian friend said was the best she ever had, and the fried chicken (a customer favorite). It is boneless dark meat thickly breaded well-seasoned over awesome mashed potatoes and collard greens( can't judge that since I don't care for them anyway). Dessert was ok. We opted to try all three but only the dark chocolate dessert was enjoyed. The mango sorbet was average and the apple crumble was too oatmeal-y. They have wine and beer in a limited variety and a really yummy raspberry iced tea. Decor was so interesting which i tried capturing in the pics and service was very personal and moving. Pricing a little higher but you will want to give it first for the experience and then for the great food. We were informed by the manager that they have secured some land closer to the other nonprofit companies which allows employees to work on the farm as well as in the restaurant. They plan on expanding to liquor as well at that point. They have other locations that also are working to provide great opportunities to the youth so I plan on following their journey. Feed your soul while feeding your tummy and give this a try. You'll be blessed because you did read more

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This is a place with a purpose and mission. Yes the food is amazing, the atmosphere is nice, but what they do for people is truly what sets them apart. They provide young people with opportunities through training and skills building, even coaching them to finish high school. I applaud them for what they do. read more

Years ago I had the opportunity to patron this incredible restaurant with a beautiful purpose for the community - last night was so impactful for us to see that the legacy continues- This restaurant is what goodness in this world looks like. They could have served me a wet sponge with ketchup and I would go back for every single meal. Lucky for us, they served impeccable food with purpose. Young men of Dallas are learning valuable lessons of service and self awareness through this restaurant. It was an honor to be a part of the fellowship and flow of dining with greatness. We attended for our friends birthday celebration/ what a way to celebrate life! Delicious backseat of bread, sweet and sticky ribs, buttery cheesy Mac and cheese, smoked friend chicken, a plentiful serving of crispy snapper fish, lobster pasta- all chef's kiss! Truly wonderful things are happening here- go see them. They have a fantastic message to share- and you can help change the trajectory of a young man's life by enjoying an incredible meal here! Five stars for changing the world! Check out their website to learn all about this lovely and loving community cafe/restaurant serving up smiles and soul for all to enjoy! read more

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From start to finish everything was amazing! The concept of helping our youth is hands down one of the best projects I've ever seen. My sister recommended the restaurant as she knows the owner Chad. Shout out to him for making our experience memorable. The food was delicious and present with class. The stories of 2nd chances shared by the waitstaff provide a new found appreciation for humanity which we all could use right now! Order the salmon it was our favorite, very delicious! read more

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Really nice meal! Had Mac n cheese and cucumber salad and they were both delicious. Ambiance is nice. Our server was still learning tho he was really trying ( and going in I knew they are being trained at the restaurant so that was ok). My friend and I both really enjoyed our meals. Will be going back again read more

One of the top restaurants I've visited as far as service. The mission of this restaurant makes it feel that much sweeter in supporting via dining in. We started off with a bread basket which was very good. It came with butter and a berry jam. Everyone in my group ordered the fried chicken since its the most popular dish and it was our first visit. We all really loved it. I do want to go back and try the sticky ribs. They sounded really good. Plus, I didn't get dessert and I was told the chocolate cake was divine! Worth a visit! There is valet parking next door to the restaurant. It's free but of course they take tips. read more

Cafe Momentum Dallas - Bread basket - New American Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Amazing food and an inspiring charity all rolled into one. Their motto "Eat. Drink. Change Lives." is exactly what you do when dining here. The food is top notch and the menu changes often. The young men and women are part of the CM program and go thru culinary training and life skills classes. Please have patience and show a little grace with the serving staff and the kitchen. They are learning and are trying their absolute best to serve. We have dined here at least 20 times and the food is always delicious! On occasion our glass is not filled immediately or we wait a few extra minutes for our next course or we get the wrong entree accidentally- who cares not me! I would never let that diminish the enjoyment of my meal! Talk to these incredible young men and women. Ask them their experience with CM. This successful, innovative program is now being replicated in other cities. You will feel so good having been apart of this special place if only for one night! read more

A non-profit restaurant where every dish you order serves a greater purpose?! RUN don't walk to Cafe Momentum! Ambiance: elevated cafe. Perfect for a date night or friends hangout for finer dining in a casual setting. Food recommendations: - Smoked Fried Chicken - NY Strip - Mac & Cheese I did feel like the chicken was undercooked inside and the steak was overcooked, however the presentation was fantastic and was likely a one time scenario. Highly recommend to come and support a great social cause! Price: $$$ ($20-$40 entrees) Dine in complimentary valet or street parking read more

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Probably the best restaurant I've been to in downtown and definitely one of the best in the city. The program itself is awesome but the food is phenomenal. The menu changes constantly with the big sweeping changes happening by season and ingredients are locally sourced and fresh. We had the bread basket (amazing) and blackened artichokes (so flavorful). I had the pork chop with purple hull peas, my aunt had the barramundi and my mom had the shrimp skewers. We all loved our meals and were sad that we were too stuffed for dessert. I'll definitely be back to try the menu when it's updated. This is a great restaurant with a great cause but the food does not disappoint. It's also priced well with portions that feel on par. Loved it! read more

The service, the food, the experience, everything amazing. Came here for my birthday dinner with my parents. We ordered the braised lamb over mash and a side of brussels sprouts and the fried chicken with collard greens, mash potatoes and biscuit. The food came and the table got quiet for savoring purposes. All was delicious. Cooked to perfection. I do also suggest the bread pudding simply amazing. Our server Carlos was kind and attentive (everyone was) Will be back sooner than soon! read more

Literally the best meal I've ever had in my life. The pork chop and grits was amazing and a must order. The sticky ribs mashed potatoes also off the chart. And I can't even describe the dessert, but it was fabulous. And the work this restaurant does to help kids in need is so important if you don't know google them. read more

Purpose -Impact - community - no food related business should expect to last without it. I've instantly bonded with @cafemomentum for what they do for our community's youth. You have a supporter, a fan and a regular for as long as I am able. If that wasn't enough to win you over - the food is outstanding! Very delicious !!! We ordered: Asian Sticky Ribs House-made Bread Basket Coffee Rubbed 44 Farms NY Strip Smoked Fried Chicken Bourbon Pecan Crème Brûlée read more

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Can't not give this place 5-stars. The service is great, the food on point. Decor, vibe, everything was excellent. We we're one of the last diners and even the manager came out to greet us. Smoked fried chicken was the highlight though. Loved it! read more

Cafe Momentum Dallas - Smoked Fried Chicken , Nccr Gravy , Randall 's Biscuits , Mashers , Collard greens - New American Near Me - Dallas, Texas

A wonderful meal and it goes to a great cause! Loved the food - we had a delightful crab cake appetizer, pork tenderloin entree and an apple crisp for dessert. We went for the monthly live show and weren't disappointed. Will definitely go back again. read more

Went with a friend to try them out a few months ago. Really like their mission which got me interested. Menu was varied, very southern vittles oriented. Their specialty is a smoked chicken. I love lamb so opted for that instead. I should have asked more questions about the preparation. This dish was not to my tastes at all. I think it was well prepared just not my thing. I would go back to try their smoked chicken. Think my friend enjoyed her food more. She would definitely go back. These are young kids learning a trade. They did a good job. The adult supervision was a little pushy on the diners. Obviously, and justly so, proud of their proteges. Adults don't need to be checking on us (diners) 5 or more times during a meal. Many diners seemed to be regulars. Dress was casual. This is a quiet, neighborhood eatery. read more

Girls' night out! Ambiance, service, food, and complimentary valet for convenience.... all on point for finer dining. This place not only has an inspiring mission, but it's also a hidden gem. We started off with three delectable appetizers.... calamari, 1000 Potatoes, and cauliflower with pickled onions. Followed by a savory coffee rub NY strip steak, and the smoked fried chicken. Prepared to perfection. If you're a Foodie like me and have not had the opportunity to dine here... Cafe Momentum will not disappoint. read more

We can't say enough about Cafe Momentum! The mission is exception as was the food. I had the smoked fried chicken and my mom had the mushroom belly. We got to hear the story of one of the staff who has come a long way in the 3 years he's worked there and it was so inspiring! My mom cleaned her plate, which she never does. Just outstanding! read more

Cafe Momentum Dallas - Shrimp and corn fritters - New American Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Made reservations via Resy on a Saturday night. Complimentary valet parking which is located in the parking garage next to the front door which is nice for cold or rainy weather. Seating is limited with Covid restrictions. We felt safe and comfortable dining in. The staff was very attentive and menu has great food options to accommodate. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great dinner while supporting young men and women gain valuable experience. Additional information about the restaurant, menu, and their work are available on their website. Will definitely be back to try more items on the menu! read more

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Delicious food and amazing service, what more could you ask for? I highly recommend this for a nice dinner out in Dallas. Bread and carrot appetizers were amazing, along with every entree our table tried. 10/10! read more

Cafe Momentum Dallas - Cod with Uni Butter, Noodles, and Bok Choi - New American Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Great cause behind the place! Proceeds and donations go towards the nonprofit and this place provides youth with real world experience. The bread basket was delicious w blackberry jam and I liked the food overall! The steak was cooked to our liking, but it does have a blue cheese flavor (which I like!) read more

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one of the worst experiences ever. The staffs were rude, the management and communication in this establishment were horrible! I waited for an whole hour for my food and didn't receive it until we decided to leave, which we were stopped by one of the manager, who finally acknowledged us when we choose to leave which was ridiculous because there weren't that many costumers at the time... I even told the staff about the wait time and have to stop someone to finally get water or anything constantly! Please do better because I see y'all looking at us but I know for sure y'all choose not to acknowledge us and try to feel apologetic. Would not recommend this place ever. read more

Amazing atmosphere. Love supporting this great cause too. Food was amazing and so was the service! Can't wait to go back.

Good food, even better mission. Do a little research to understand just how great this program is. I spent about 20 mins just talking to the youth workers. The food alone justifies a repeat visit, but the life changing work they do demands your support. Check this place out ASAP. read more

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My wife convinced me to try this place out because of the great mission they have (helping kids involved with the justice system get their feet under them and learn restauranteur skills). I was happy to say yes and get behind that mission, but honesty did not expect a ton from the culinary experience. Whoa! Best meal we've had in Dallas. We dined at super hip Sister restaurant for our anniversary this year and Cafe Momentum was, no exaggeration, as good if not better. The smoked fried chicken is best chicken I've had anywhere ever. And their wine bottles are really reasonably priced, so you actually get a very high level dining experience for less $$ than you'd expect. Make a reservation and go there. You will feel good all over! read more

This place is so cool. It is a restaurant but also a 12 month internship program paying livable wages to young adults coming out of juvenile facilities! They learn life skills, social skills and apparently the recidivism rate dropped dramatically. Anyways, the food is amazing! The staff are probably some of the most attentive staff I've ever had. Do not miss the opportunity to go here! read more

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Our first dinner here, the other night. Quite a unique experience. Maybe you're reading this review thinking you'll learn something about the food and drink -- and you will -- but first, scroll back up, click their website, get educated, and then come back here. Welcome back. The Chef himself delivered the appetizer, buffalo pastrami sliced razor-thin, in a lightly leafy presentation, surrounded by daubs of creme fraiche sprinkled with caraway seed, to call up the flavor of pastrami on rye with a dairy softener. (eg. Swiss cheese, for you deli buffs.) A wonderful creation, very flavorful, and a first-time experience for us. We ordered a bottle of wine, the salmon, and the New York strip. An adult served the wine, then a passable 15 minutes later, the plate-carrier showed up with the salmon ... and a pork chop. Our server had mis-entered our order in their system. The pork chop looked fabulous, but I had my heart set on the steak, so my wife nibbled her salmon with great restraint, while we waited for Dinner, Part Deux. A couple minutes later, a different server offered us a complimentary basket of breads, a menu item for which there is normally a charge. We accepted, and enjoyed some unique and flavorful carbs with butter and a tart, fruity jam. Shortly thereafter, a New York Strip the size of the city itself showed up, done perfectly to the medium rare I had requested. Our original server, who I think had been hiding under a table for the last 15 or 20 minutes, stopped by to apologize for mis-entering our order. We had a nice conversation about how everyone, at some time in their life, will have a Chef mad as hell at them. It's unavoidable. We finished our entrees and were about to ask for the check when yet another server arrived to insist that we enjoy a complimentary desert. We did. Try the creme brule'. A standard, but we highly recommend it. Then came the check, and I discovered we had been charged for two bottles of wine, when we had ordered only one. The mistake was instantly corrected. We will most certainly be back to Cafe Momentum: First, because the food is wonderful: it is artfully, conscientiously, and creatively prepared and presented, and it is delicious. Second, because this eatery is delivering a social good that creates more substance, and, I suspect, more results than many public social programs in our country today. If you don't know what that means, it's because you can't follow directions. Go to their web site, take a lesson, then come back here and read this review again. Do I have to tell you a third time? This restaurant fouled up our dining experience, big time. And what did they do about it? They fessed up, took responsibility, provided complimentary favors, and rectified the situation as quickly and professionally as you would find at Morton's, Capital Grille, Biernat's, or any other hoity toity joint. If you insist on going to one of those places because the service is close to perfect, feel free to pay twice as much for the same quality food; but if you can find some tolerance and patience in you, then please eat well, and do some good, by dining at Cafe Momentum. read more

Food was excellent. The young people that work here are terrific. It is so wonderful to see them learn life skills and turn their lives around. It is an inspiration in these troubled times. The restaurant itself is wonderful. read more

Do you ever wonder if you can really make a difference in this world? Or in the life of a single individual? I think that at some point in our lives each of us reflect on how we are giving back to society. That's what makes Momentum Cafe so special. They aren't just thinking about it, they ARE making a difference. And by eating there, you can make a difference too. "EAT. DRINK. Change lives." This is the motto of Momentum Cafe and it's what put them on my radar a while ago. Momentum Cafe is a restaurant and culinary training facility. They offer a "12-month paid post-release internship program for young men and women coming out of juvenile facilities. They rotate through all aspects of the restaurant, focusing on life and social skills, coaching and development." One startling statistic I read said, "65% of the Cafe Momentum interns are homeless." From the moment you walk in, you are in their classroom. You could even think of yourself as a mentor! Without customers, they wouldn't have anyone to provide training they need to complete the program. Now I know that my one meal won't change the world, but I do know that it helped change the life of one man, our waiter. We were his first customer. Ever. You might be thinking that you've seen young men and women just like this behind the counter of many fast food restaurants. But then you wouldn't be getting the whole picture. This isn't just a job. This is culinary training. With menu items like Sweet & Spicy Eggplant, Texas Pear Salad, Smoked Fried Chicken, they prepare everyday food with flair. You get an excellent meal and these young men and women get prepared for life. So, what are you waiting for? Go be a mentor! Click on the link to make a reservation through Open Table! I think you'll be glad you did. I know the young men and women you serve you and prepare your meal will be. Live too far away to dine at Cafe Momentum but touched by their cause? Visit their Cafe Momentum website to learn how you can help make a difference by supporting them. read more

What a great way to give Back. From the greeting at valet to the welcome at the desk awesome. We started with the bread basket OMG THOSE BISCUITS. Warm and delicious. These kids are being given second chances and you can surely appreciate their enthusiasm in their training and craft. Now for the meals. Started off with the bread basket this is a must try if your a bread eater. The entrees We're quite different but good. I had the shrimp and grits which very good and the smoked fried chicken which had one of the most unique Taste I've had. I'm not a greens fan but they were very good. This is a must try restaurant not only for its food and service but for the Worthy cause that is serves. Easy five stars read more

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Overdue review - this place is excellent. Amazing service, great food, awesome portions. Definitely recommend read more

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As Anthony did truly Love The płace ! Love That they have youngsters wait on us so polite ! And Kuchen future chefs !!!!!! it shows care and love to community and people of this world ! Dishes are as good as you can make it truly fantastic! I really recommend Risotto! Love the place happy was able to experience! Ok ! read more

Simply Amazing. Cuisine. And Service. A restaurant with a noble purpose where you can gave a dressed up or dressed down meal, as we observed. Our table ordered a charcuterie board, which provided four diners with generous amounts of amazing and varied appetizers. The Fried Okra Salad followed which was one of the best salads we have ever tasted. Cold, crispy and crunchy with a sweet and savory vinaigrette dressing. A completely different take on Fried Okra. One of our party, who is not an Okra lover said that salad could definitely change her mind. Some at our table went for an amazing risotto entree, some for the sweet tea infused Pork Chop that was both tender and of ample proportions, with an appropriate side of beautifully dressed arugula. While the menu changes frequently, we would recommend this urban oasis to anyone visiting Dallas. Located I n the lovey Historic Thanksgiving Square district. Best of all your tip is used to help rebuild lives. Win Win Win. read more

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