One of the most coveted restaurants in Dallas sits atop an even more coveted building in the middle of downtown. Neiman Marcus was founded in 1907 and its flagship store sits at the corner of Akard and Main. It has been occupying this location for 110+ years (after the original store that opened in 1907 burned down in a fire), becoming a staple to the city as much as a global fashion icon. One the 6th floor of the building is The Zodiac. The tables of this restaurant have hosted some of the most iconic fashion designers of our generation and local patrons alike. If only those crisp, white table linens could whisper the conversations they have overheard for over a century. This restaurant offers an experience that truly cannot be encountered anywhere else. The history alone is enough to supersede most other restaurants in the city, but the presentation of the food and exceptional service is what really sets them apart.

It all starts when you are brought one of Neiman Marcus’ famous warm popovers with strawberry butter. That duo in itself is spectacular, but it must be paired with their house-made broth. There is something about the saltiness of the broth and the sweetness of the strawberry butter that truly rounds out each bite.

A few of my recent menu favorites:

NM Chicken Salad

Mixed greens, NM Chicken Salad, fresh berries, shaved celery, grapes, apples, toasted walnuts, lemon vinaigrette

Prime Rib French Dip

NM popover, caramelized onion, gruyére, horseradish cream sauce, au jus

Stanley Marcus Pot Roast

Whipped potatoes, carrots, haricot vert, mushrooms, pearl onions

The above are some recent favorite items, as I recently stated. However, my go-to order each and every time I dine at a Neiman Marcus is their chicken salad sandwich (add avocado) with a side of fries. Note: You used to be able to order the sandwich at The Zodiac, but that is no longer the case, which is a travesty. You can, indeed, still order it at the Mermaid Bar located on the first floor of their NorthPark location. If you are looking for a place to dine during the holiday, the holiday buffet offered at The Zodiac is a Dallas tradition that spans decades. Make sure you make a reservation ASAP as availability fills up as soon as mid-October.

If I haven’t convinced you just yet to dine at The Zodiac perhaps its closure may prompt a more reactive action. Since the merger of Neiman Marcus and Saks Global, there have been numerous rumors, conversations and some actions leading towards the closure of the downtown store which would include The Zodiac. You can read more about the merger here. It is such a sad reality for the city, but it is especially difficult for those who currently or used to work at this downtown location. I am one of those individuals having worked at the corporate Advertising offices of Neiman Marcus from 2004 – 2009. The news is emotional to say the least, but there is still hope. There has been word that the store may be kept open as a museum, as a learning center or event space and, perhaps, that means The Zodiac can keep their doors open. If so, we may be witness to a fashion / culinary miracle. If not, then I will post again bidding my farewell to this icon. Only time will tell.