Honestly how can this be the product of a Michelin Chef? This was an absolute joke of an experience to say the least. I can understand why less cultured, less traveled Dallas natives would rate this place higher than it deserves. We tried practically every other "nice" restaurant in the area and they were all pretty bad, so yes coming here I could see how the underdeveloped pallet would find this place to be wonderful... in short the bar is low. However, for someone who has dined at some of the most decorated Michelin restaurants in the US, I can say without a doubt, this experience was anything but magical. The service was condescending, awkward and rushed. Our "sommelier" helped himself to a glass of wine from our bottle and then the manager came to ask how we were enjoying everything and looked at me blankly when I explained what had just happened. I think I read another review where the guest explained it perfectly- they had every opportunity to recover this situation and the manager was ill prepared. She was dismissive and didn't seem to think there was anything wrong with this behavior. After witnessing a clearly more experienced level 3 sommelier complete wine service at two other tables and not drink their wine, I concluded that this practice was not a standard across the restaurant and for some reason we paid for our sommelier to drink on the job. The explanation for this "standard" was that he was educating himself on the profile of the wine and making sure it wasn't corked. Well, we would have liked to have had the opportunity to decide that for ourselves. Also, I'm not paying for your staff to educate themselves. If I wanted to do that I would've gone to a charity gala. Beyond that we didn't order a bottle of wine that would be at high risk for being compromised... it was a $60 (not expensive or impressive by any means) of 2020 Willamette Valley Pinot... the argument didn't hold up. Again, the other sommeliers weren't acting like this. I eventually had to pull the manager aside to explain why this was unacceptable and she again looked at me like I was an idiot. I assure you this is not a standard practice at most nice restaurants, it's a practice that is highly outdated. The manager then asked me what she should do! Seriously? You can't figure that out? Her suggestion was we didn't pay for the wine. No, that's not what I said, though the offer was again condescending as if I had come in there planning on not paying for the wine we ordered. I was perfectly fine paying for the wine, but the principal of the matter is that the discussion should have never escalated to that point. The proper thing to do would have been to offer a full bottle in exchange for the bottle we were given with the glass of wine missing. After having to point all of this out to several other staff, it was eventually removed from the bill, but still not a proper recovery. Removing it from the bill was insulting; a bandaid on a clearly obvious bigger problem. I wish that the wine situation was the only thing that happened but it wasn't. Steak was over cooked, food was salty, asparagus was soggy and the support servers kept trying to take my food away while I was still eating it. And lastly, the rude male host who refused to give me my complimentary sparkling wine given to all guests upon going up to the restaurant because he didn't believe that I was actually going to the restaurant. After having to show my reservation and finally receipt after leaving, he reluctantly gave it to me and then followed me up the elevator to make sure I was actually going back to the restaurant. Are you serious? I have never been treated so poorly ever, and it is beyond sad that I'm still sitting here upset about this. I think the impact of injury comes from the notion that guests look forward to this experience and it's not cheap. They send approximately four reminders to dress appropriately and bring your A game for a nice experience and they serve you a C- evening that you pay tremendously for. For them to take that for granted in the service is insulting. Also, their staff was not even in the dress code. We literally saw a female server walking through the dining room with only the front half of her shirt, the back tiedwith strings and another one wearing combat boots. This place is all sorts of confused. You wouldn't invest in a Porsche only to drive off the lot and have the wheels fall off, why settle for what should have been a luxury experience turned substandard? Skip this place. They don't understand the concept of hospitality. read more

If you're ever up in Dallas and lookin' for a place with a view that'll knock your socks off, Monarch is where you wanna be. Now, I ain't gonna lie, it's on the fancy side. If you want one of them window seats, you'll need to shell out $150 per person, but don't fret, they'll credit it towards your bill. If you're okay with regular seating, no need to pay in advance. Now, let's talk 'bout the whole experience. When you roll up, they'll treat you right with some complimentary champagne, which is a nice touch. We went on a night when things were pretty quiet and got seated without much fuss. However, I gotta say, the place could use a little TLC - the seats were a bit torn, and for a place as swanky as this, that's kinda surprising. Alright, now to the main event - the food: Fritto Misto Di Mare (9/10): This calamari dish, cher, was something else. Perfectly seasoned with a little kick in the sauce, it even won over my wife, who's not usually a fan of calamari. That says a lot 'bout the quality right there. Momma's Spicy Rigatoni alla Vodka (8/10): This pasta had just the right texture and a semi-spicy vodka sauce that hit the spot. It was real good, no doubt. Texas Wagyu Striploin (8/10): This steak was cooked just right, with a nice char and balanced seasonings. Now, I've had better, but you can tell they're using some quality beef. Roasted Bone Marrow (3/10): Even though they tried to wow us with flames and all, the flavor and meat quantity were a letdown. It looked good, but didn't deliver. Black Truffle Risotto (7/10): This one had a good cheesy and truffle taste, but they went a bit heavy on the salt. Brought it down a notch for me. Wood Oven-Roasted Oyster Mushrooms (8/10): These mushrooms were packed with flavor and had a nice crunch from what I reckon were breadcrumbs. A delightful side dish for sure. Tiramisu (8/10): Now, it wasn't your classic tiramisu, but it was still delicious. It came with coffee ice cream, mascarpone, and Baileys. If you love coffee, this one's for you. And as for the drinks: Diamond Noir (6/10): This bourbon and coconut milk mix with a cabernet float was unique, but it didn't quite hit the mark for me. Sovereign (5/10): Makers bourbon with bitters and sugar - it tried to be an old-fashioned but didn't quite make it. I gotta be honest, I walked in with low expectations thinkin' the food might be so-so, but I was pleasantly surprised. The waiter mentioned the menu changes with the seasons, which is promising. Overall, I'd give the experience a solid 4.5/5. I'll definitely be back to see what other seasonal goodies they whip up. So, if you find yourself in Dallas and want a dining experience with a view and some good eats, give Monarch a try. Just remember to bring your wallet and a good appetite! read more

I took some friends visiting from out of town to dine at Monarch, one of the most stunning spots in the area. I hesitated to write this review but felt encouraged to share our experience. We were welcomed with a glass of champagne when we arrived and waited at the bar for our table. It set the tone for a promising night, and my friends and I were thrilled -- nothing like a girl's night out with friends visiting from out of town. We were seated at a cozy four-top, and our waiter, Santiago, greeted us warmly. Placing our drinks, appetizers, and food orders took a little time, but the anticipation relaxed the evening. The food was wonderful, as always. Monarch's menu truly delivers, and it's the perfect setting to indulge in good food, drinks, and conversation. However, the service was, unfortunately, somewhat lacking. At first, it didn't bother us -- we were happily chatting and enjoying each other's company. But after we finished our meals, we noticed our dirty dishes hadn't been cleared for about five to seven minutes. One of my friends eventually stopped a staff member in a striking salmon suit to ask for help clearing our table. The moment felt a bit like when you're at home, wrapped up in laughter, and suddenly realize the dishes are still sitting there, and it's up to you to clean up. After removing the dishes, Santiago returned with a dessert menu, but there was only one menu for the four of us. My friend had to mention this before he brought us additional menus. It was a minor oversight, but it felt a bit off in such a high-end setting. The evening ended on a high note with desserts to die for. The pastry chef outdid herself, and the soufflé and pear dessert were stunning and delicious. While Monarch's ambiance and food are lovely and worth experiencing, the service felt inconsistent. Nonetheless, it's a beautiful place to enjoy with friends--just go for the food, drinks, and exceptional atmosphere, and don't let minor service issues detract from a memorable night out. (3.75 Stars) read more

A Disappointing Experience at Monarch Every year, I take my divorced parents separately to a fancy dinner instead of exchanging gifts. This year, my wife and I chose Monarch for my dad, based on glowing recommendations from friends. We booked a month in advance, pre-paid $350 for food, and requested a window seat. Unfortunately, the night didn't live up to expectations. Fog obscured the view, which was disappointing but out of anyone's control. What followed, however, was a series of letdowns that tarnished the evening. The service was painfully slow. Despite arriving at 5:45 PM for our 6:00 reservation, we didn't leave until 8:30--and that was without dessert. We ordered everything at once, yet waited 45-60 minutes between courses. Larger tables around us were served and turned over while we sat waiting. The back corner where we were seated seemed to have only one main server for seven or eight tables, leading to long gaps and minimal attention. To make matters worse, my martini was warm, and the lack of food left me with a headache. When the check finally arrived, it totaled $500, including a $150 balance (gratuity was pre-included for the window seat reservation). This struck me as unusual for a party of three, especially given the poor service. When I raised my concerns with the General Manager--who happened to pick up our check--he offered no apology, simply removed the charge for a round of drinks, and brought the revised bill back. The resolution felt mechanical, not empathetic. On the bright side, the food was good when it eventually arrived, but the overall experience felt drawn-out and underwhelming. At $150-$175 per person, there are plenty of places in Dallas where you can leave happy, full, and eager to recommend the restaurant to others. Unfortunately, Monarch is not one of those places. Dine at your own risk, especially during the holiday season or for a special occasion. read more

A Captivating Experience with Exceptional Views and Stellar Service at Monarch I have had the pleasure of dining at Monarch, a renowned Dallas hot spot, on multiple occasions, and each visit has left me in awe. It's with great enthusiasm that I share my five-star review for this exceptional restaurant. First and foremost, the view from Monarch is absolutely breathtaking. Nestled in the heart of Dallas, the panoramic vistas of the city skyline provide a stunning backdrop that adds a touch of magic to every dining experience. Whether it's during the day when the sun bathes the surroundings in golden hues or at night when the city lights twinkle like stars, the view from Monarch is truly mesmerizing. However, Monarch's allure extends beyond its magnificent views. The service consistently exceeds expectations. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you step foot into the restaurant until the moment you bid farewell, the service at Monarch is consistently top-notch. But let's not forget about the food. The culinary creations at Monarch are a testament to the skill and creativity of the chefs. Each dish is a masterpiece, artfully presented and bursting with flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The menu offers a diverse range of options, catering to various palates and dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest can find something they love. Monarch effortlessly combines a captivating atmosphere, impeccable service, and exceptional cuisine to create an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a memorable meal, this Dallas hot spot is a must-visit. I wholeheartedly recommend Monarch to anyone seeking a truly remarkable dining experience that will leave a lasting impression. read more

There simply aren't enough words to express how amazing Monarch is. We had made a reservation well in advance to secure a window seat with its breathtaking view, and we had eagerly anticipated our visit for some time. One thing I can say about Monarch is that no detail is overlooked. As soon as we arrived on the first floor, we were greeted with champagne- an exceptional touch that you rarely find in restaurants. Then, we were escorted to the private elevator section and whisked up to the high floor where Monarch sits. The ambiance is superb, and every corner offers a different perspective of the Dallas skyline. Our hostess warmly greeted us and showed us to our table. Shortly after, our captain, Hash, introduced himself. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and had plenty of great recommendations. We decided to order a bottle of wine, and I must say, I have never seen such an extensive and high quality wine list in my life. They offer wines across a wide range, and if you need assistance, their sommelier is exceptionally helpful in finding the perfect bottle. The best part if, there was no pressure to automatically choose an overpriced wine. This level of service deserves commendation. After careful consideration, we chose a bottle of Pride that we had never tried before, and it turned out to be absolutely delicious. We indulged in a variety of dishes, but the true highlights were their oysters, meatballs, black truffle risotto, and prime bone-in filet. Monarch's menu offers a plethora of options, and I can assure you that their portions are generous. Every dish was prepared with meticulous attention to detail and presented beautifully. I wholeheartedly recommend Monarch to anyone seeking an extraordinary dining experience. read more

This place is all about the vibes and experience. I didn't know about this place and my guy suggested we celebrate our anniversary here. It is definitely a place to get noticed. With rolls, Porsche, and multiple lambos in valet front and center of the hotel, there are nothing but beautiful people all around. The hype girls in the lobby offer champagne while you board the elevator to the 49th floor. Service here is beyond. It's part of the experience and they really make you feel important lol. The restaurant itself is huge. Tons of dining area and bear in mind it's quite loud (we were there on a Sat night). Reservations are basically required for high peak times, but they offer full menu at various bar seating areas. This is what we did and we had an entire area to ourselves- next to the wine cellar and a gorgeous bar. The seating was intimate and was totally perfect for us. We opted for the meatballs, cacio e Pepe, and rigatoni a la vodka. The pasta was perfectly cooked and the rigatoni was topped with some delicious peppery crunchy kick. My guy liked the cacio e pepe but it didn't seem crazy to me. The meatballs were amazing. Soft inside, crispy outer, and delicious sauce drenched in cheese. Chefs kiss. Our meal was fantastic! If you can have someone guard the mens bathroom, you can sneak inside for some awesome sky high photos lol. I didn't do this but my guy took awesome pics from his urinal, lol. The third stall in the Women's bathroom has a view. Very memorable experience, fun atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. Great for a special occasion. read more

Monarch Restaurant in Dallas is a top-rated dining destination known for its delicious food and stunning atmosphere. Located in the heart of the Design District, the restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a modern touch. The ambiance of Monarch is chic and elegant, with a stylish décor that exudes sophistication. The space is well-lit and airy, providing a comfortable and relaxed dining experience. The attentive and friendly staff adds to the ambiance, making you feel welcomed and at home. The menu at Monarch is diverse, offering a wide range of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences. The appetizers are especially noteworthy, with options like lobster bisque, oysters, and crab cakes that are both delicious and beautifully presented. For the main course, the steak options are highly recommended, cooked to perfection and seasoned perfectly. The seafood dishes are also excellent, featuring fresh catches that are creatively prepared with a range of delicious sides. The dessert menu is a standout, with options like the classic crème brûlée, chocolate souffle, and seasonal fruit tarts that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Overall, Monarch Restaurant in Dallas is a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening out. While it's a bit on the pricey side, the quality of the food and service make it well worth the cost. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fine dining experience in Dallas. read more

I had an absolutely fantastic experience at The Monarch in Dallas and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable night out. From the moment I arrived, the staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive. When you walk into the building you are offered a glass of champagne which is beautifully crisp. The valet parking process was quick and easy, which made for a great start to the evening. I recommend starting with the Diamond Noir, it's an amazing drink that is both delicious and unique. It's clear that the bartenders at The Monarch are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, and they know how to craft a perfect cocktail. As for the food, the Filet Mignon was cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious. The Calamari was also a standout, with a perfect texture and delicious seasoning. The quality of the ingredients was apparent in every bite, and I appreciated the local sourcing. The staff at The Monarch are truly exceptional, they are friendly, attentive, and go out of their way to ensure that every guest has a great time. Their knowledge of the menu, drinks, and Dallas in general made for an even more enjoyable experience. Overall, I would highly recommend The Monarch in Dallas for a fantastic night out. From the valet service to the incredible food and drinks, to the outstanding staff, everything was top-notch. If you're looking for a great experience, look no further than The Monarch read more

I wish I could give Monarch more than 5 stars for what was such a PERFECT night. We came in to celebrate our 7th anniversary, and we truly felt like royalty that night. The service was top notch, the food was incredible, and the atmosphere is sophisticated yet playful. We started off with the foccacia (honestly could eat SO much of that bread!) oysters, buffalo mozzarella and prosciutto salad (the tigelles are to DIE for!), those incredibly flavorful and juicy wood-fired prawns, and a surprise serving of caviar and potato blinis! The mains came out perfectly, my boyfriend enjoyed the most delicious melt-in-your-mouth Japanese A5 wagyu steak and I was fawning over the buttery, flaky Dover Sole, both accompanied with some of the best whipped potatoes and green beans I've ever had. We topped it off with some glasses of port (and a cheeky espresso martini) and the most incredible gooey fluffy chocolate souffle! And just when I thought everything was perfect, the evening got even BETTER when my boyfriend (now fiancé!) proposed to me in the wine cellar! Thank you to Jennifer, Nicole, EJ, Gabriel, and the ENTIRE Monarch team for such a memorable night, this is a night that we will never forget. If you are considering coming to Monarch for dinner, DO IT. You will not regret it. This team knows exactly how to create unforgettable experiences! Oh, and that view from the 49th floor isn't too bad either ;) read more

This was my first visit to this restaurant. Upon arrival, we checked in with the hosts for our 8 PM reservation but weren't seated until 8:23 PM. While waiting, we stood in the overcrowded bar area, which wasn't the most enjoyable experience. The atmosphere felt pretentious, and the crowd was inconsiderate, frequently bumping into us without a single apology. Thankfully, once we were seated, the evening took a turn for the better, thanks to our wonderful waiter. We started with a selection of bread, olives, and soppressata, which set a nice tone for the meal. For appetizers, we chose the meatballs and fritto misto. The meatballs, along with their sauce, were absolutely exceptional--some of the best I've had in the U.S. The fritto misto, while enjoyable, didn't particularly stand out. For my main course, I opted for the short rib ragu pasta, and it was nothing short of spectacular. I cannot recommend it enough. The lasagna, on the other hand, was a revelation--absolutely mind-blowing and a must-try. Unfortunately, the asparagus side dish fell flat for me, as the asparagus was overly crunchy and not to my liking. For dessert, we indulged in the white chocolate pear mousse, which was phenomenal and the perfect end to the meal. If you can tolerate the pretentious crowd, this restaurant is well worth a visit. read more

My wife surprised me with an incredible birthday/Valentine's Day dinner, and it was a night to remember. The restaurant offered a special prix fixe menu for the weekend, along with a few select cocktails, creating a festive and intimate dining experience. The menu was thoughtfully curated: Starters: - Hamachi--fresh and delicate - Wagyu Tartare--rich and indulgent - King Louie Salad--a crisp, flavorful start Mains: - Salmon--perfectly cooked, full of flavor, and beautifully balanced. - Wagyu Filet with Mushrooms--tender and decadent - Meyer Lemon Risotto--possibly the highlight of the night. - Purple Cauliflower--a unique and delicious touch Dessert: I'm not exactly sure what it was, but whatever it was--it was phenomenal! The only drawback of the evening was the slightly clunky service. For a restaurant of this caliber, I expected a more polished experience. That said, it was a busy night, and prix fixe menus aren't always routine for the staff. Despite that, the meal was fantastic, and I'm already looking forward to returning to explore the full menu. read more

An evening at Monarch is a reminder that hospitality is an art form when done properly. We began the night inconveniently stuck in the elevator, the kind of hiccup that could easily sour the mood. Instead, the staff handled it with effortless grace. Complimentary champagne appeared, warm apologies were offered, and part of our check was comped without hesitation. It wasn't just the gesture; it was the poise and sincerity behind it. From there, the night unfolded beautifully. The ambience is refined without feeling stuffy, service attentive without hovering, and the food delivered across the board: perfectly cooked filet, a classic Caesar, rich rigatoni alla vodka, standout Brussels sprouts, and a bottle of wine that tied everything together. Luxury isn't defined by aesthetics or skyline views. It's defined by how a place takes care of you when things don't go perfectly. Monarch understands this. We left feeling valued, impressed, and already planning our return. read more

I've been meaning to try Monarch in downtown Dallas for the longest time, and I have to say it exceeded all expectations. The atmosphere was out of this world, being on the 49th floor of a very nice hotel building. Their reviews pretty much everywhere, even the bathrooms, had the most impressive views I've ever seen, showcasing nearly all of the downtown Dallas skyline. The ambience is definitely a 10 out of 10. The staff also deserve a 10 out of 10 for being the kindest, nicest people I've ever met. My waiter went out of his way to accommodate my allergies, which I was incredibly appreciative of. As for the food, I was really impressed. It's very hard to satisfy my taste, but there's always a first time for everything. Despite being expensive, I highly recommend Monarch. It is definitely worth the time, wait, and money. Please, go try Monarch in downtown Dallas - you won't be disappointed! read more

Monarch is truly a top-tier dining experience! From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by the elegant ambiance and stunning views. The service was impeccable--attentive without being intrusive, and every staff member made us feel genuinely welcomed. Now, let's talk about the food--absolutely phenomenal! The steaks were cooked to perfection, with rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each dish was beautifully presented, and the sides complemented the meal perfectly. The wine selection was also outstanding, with great pairings recommended by our server. Yes, it's a high-end experience, but worth every penny. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an unforgettable night out, Monarch delivers on all fronts. Can't wait to return! read more

Atmosphere nice, good vibe, as expected. Food good but pricey, as expected. The 3* is because at the end of the meal, the server seemed eager to encourage us to go upstairs to "the speakeasy." She said she'd even send us birthday shots. We were indifferent but said sure, we'd check it out. They shuffled us out of monarch IN A BIG HURRY, and at the top of the stairs we found... Kessaku. Not a "speakeasy" but the Thompson's sushi restaurant. The hostess up there seemed mildly annoyed, like that's where they send guests that they are eager to shoo out of monarch. ANYWAY, we were dressed well, spent well, I was SO turned off by this whole exchange. Please don't fall for this "speakeasy" thing- they are just trying to get you out of monarch to turn your table RUDE! read more

The restaurant name is fitting because this is now the best restaurant in Dallas. The service and atmosphere are unbeatable. You're handed complementary glasses of champagne or whiskey prior to even entering the elevator. The views are gorgeous. Ask for a booth near one of the hundreds of windows. After 7 drinks from the bar, I can safely say that every drink on their specialty drink menu is perfect. The best drink is called Sooner Than Later. Be sure to check out both bars in restaurant. You won't want to miss the bar in the back! As far as food, the Short Rib Bolognese and Whipped Potatoes are amazing. For a vegetarian option, you can ask for the Rigatoni without the meat. Definitely be sure to end the night with the chocolate soufflé. read more

Celebrated my birthday at Monarch Dallas and had such a wonderful time! The food was absolutely incredible - everything I ordered exceeded my expectations and was packed with flavor. The atmosphere really made the night special with its perfect vibe that felt both elegant and fun, exactly what you want for a birthday celebration. The only minor note was that the service could have been a bit more attentive, but honestly it didn't detract much from the overall experience. The quality of the food and the amazing ambiance more than made up for it. Would definitely recommend Monarch for special occasions - the combination of exceptional cuisine and great atmosphere makes it a memorable dining experience. Can't wait to go back!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ read more

I recently had dinner at Monarch in Dallas, and overall, it was a decent experience. The absolute highlights were the stunning views and the vibrant, lively atmosphere inside. It really feels like a special spot to spend an evening. Our waitress, Joi G, was wonderful, attentive and friendly, which definitely added to the experience. On the flip side, the food was just okay. I had the King Salmon with asparagus and whipped potatoes out of those, the asparagus was the best part. The potatoes were fine, but the salmon, which was cooked medium well, lacked the flavor I was hoping for. We also tried the rigatoni alla vodka, which was just okay, nothing particularly memorable. In summary, read more