Today, more than 80% of global shipping involves containers. They're packed with everything from personal storage items in dry containers to heavy machinery on flat rack containers. For business owners shipping products, getting a container from point A to point B requires precise planning and high-level tracking. But that's easier said than done when global supply chains become over-congested, leading to loading time issues and delays.
That's bad news for business owners who are already under a massive amount of stress. The truth is that container storage delays can cripple a business, but there's a viable solution: drayage brokers in Dallas, TX like RelyEx. Drayage companies provide unique solutions to minimize demurrage and help ensure the successful delivery of your freight.
With more than 30 combined years of experience and a solutions-oriented team, RelyEx has quickly become the first choice for streamlined, efficient drayage services. To understand the true value of RelyEx's offerings in the global logistics industry, it helps to understand first what drayage is and why it's used.
If you're a seasoned business owner who uses port drayage to transport your products, you know exactly how important the service can be. But if you were to poll a group of random people, you may get five different definitions of the term "drayage." That begs the question, how is one of the most crucial steps in the supply chain and most vital components of global trade such a confusing concept? When you break it down, it's not too difficult to grasp.
Drayage, by definition, means the transportation of freight from an ocean port to another destination. Today, drayage is also used to describe the process of transporting products and goods over short distances or over "the first mile."
While drayage often means short-distance movements during the supply chain process, it's primarily used in the container shipping space. Drayage loads usually have arrival and departure points in the same city and don't include long-haul, national transportation.
Because a drayage load can mean a few different things, confusion among carriers is common. Many carriers link drayage with going into a port, but that isn't always true. While all drayage loads typically originate from a port of entry, there are often several legs of a drayage journey before a container turns up at its final stop. Legs of a drayage load may include:
You may be thinking, what's so important about drayage? It's such a small step in the container storage transport process. In reality, it's an integral piece needed in the logistics industry and a crucial part of U.S. supply chain management.
To truly understand the importance of drayage, let's use flowers as an example. Most cut flower shipments enter the market from areas in South America until they end up at Dutch auction houses. Once there, wholesalers purchase flowers in bulk and send those products to retail outlets worldwide. Because flowers are perishable, they typically need to be refrigerated and are often shipped in reefer containers. These refrigerated vessels must maintain a certain temp to prevent loss.
Drayage companies like RelyEx allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services. Drayage companies allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind, because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services.
If port drayage is compromised, it can cause delays and even fines. You know the packages you get delivered to your front door from apps like Amazon? Without drayage and drayage brokers, one or two-day shipping times wouldn't even be possible.
As a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. alone, it seems like drayage shipping issues shouldn't exist. But the fact is inefficiencies and congestion are still major problems at ports. Whether it's a lack of carriers, absent chassis, or overburdened terminals, delays lead to missed deadlines, lost revenue, and worse.
But anytime challenges exist, so too do innovative solutions.
QUOTE REQUESTRelyEx was created because our founders saw a need in the logistics space for more reliability and efficiency. The reality of the shipping and logistics industry is that it has become very transactional. It's an odd evolution, because most businesses seek a third-party logistics partner that is accessible, transparent, and committed to providing solutions.
As the logistics space continues to grow, it creates newfound expenses and complexities. Clients like ours know that and need a supply chain partner who is genuinely interested in their business. By understanding the needs of our customers and carriers, we can provide the most reliable, effective drayage services possible.
Unlike some drayage companies in Dallas, TX, we begin managing your containers before they ever hit the ports by mapping out the most efficient pathways of delivery. That way, our team can discover the best drayage pathways to expedite delivery time and reduce fees that cut into profits.
Our valued drayage customers choose RelyEx because:
At RelyEx, we like to consider ourselves problem solvers. The nature of the container drayage industry presents new challenges every day, but we're firm believers that there's a solution to every hurdle we encounter. And while some drayage businesses implement a reactive approach, RelyEx customers choose us for our proactive mindset. We take pride in solving your company's drayage challenges to help you avoid frustrating fees, missed expectations, and delayed shipments. We strive to make every transaction successful and streamlined by partnering with shippers who prioritize transparent, prompt, and accurate communication.
RelyEx approaches your business from the customer's perspective - a unique approach that helps us provide high-quality, effective drayage services. We've been in the customers' shoes, know their pain points, and because of that, provide first-hand solutions to stressful supply chain issues. With over 30 years of collective knowledge, our team excels in:
Our varied, high-level drayage shipping experience helps us achieve our overarching goal: expertly managing your freight movement needs. That way, you can direct your time and focus on growing the core aspects of your business while we handle the heavy lifting. Throw in proactive planning to avoid bottleneck situations and strong communication for transparent customer relations, and you can see why so many companies trust RelyEx.
When it comes to shipping logistics, it only takes one mistake by a mediocre worker to disrupt your business. That's why, at RelyEx, we pride ourselves on forming and nurturing relationships with carriers who match our standards of care. Our founding partner started his career transporting freight for companies as an on-demand carrier. He uses that knowledge to maximize the resources of our carriers so that our customer's expectations aren't just met - they're exceeded.
Based in the port city of Dallas, RelyEx has a keen understanding of the challenges of managing the inbound and outbound flow of containers. Our team of container drayage experts provides your business with unique solutions to nuanced shipping problems, minimizing demurrage and ensuring the successful delivery of your freight.
Customers choose RelyEx because:
Some drayage brokers don't care how customers feel about their service as long as they sign a contract and get paid. As a solutions-oriented team, RelyEx takes the opposite approach. We're motivated by the opportunity to overachieve for our customers and to provide them with the best logistics experience possible. With professional experience as carriers and shippers ourselves, we know the roadblocks and challenges you're facing. We excel at mapping out the best plans of action to solve those problems. But that's just the start.
Our tracking experts monitor and manage every aspect of your drayage shipment from booking to delivery, 24/7. Once booked, we look for the availability of your containers hourly once they're at port. When they arrive, our team acts quickly to access your storage containers when they're available.
Plus, RelyEx ensures your company's requirements are met by the carrier during loading and delivery and provide necessary documentation as fast as possible. With real-time tracking updates and access to our customer service professionals, your team has complete visibility throughout the shipping process.
Over the years, RelyEx has built a strong network of drayage carriers, transloading locations, and container storage spaces to provide you with the best possible options to match your drayage service needs. We know that searching for quality service presents an added layer of complexity and stress to our customers. That's why we work hard to take that off your plate by connecting you with our reliable shipping partners.
With a background moving freight as an on-demand carrier, our founding partner understands how to maximize the resources and equipment of our carriers to match your needs.
Like other industries, the global logistics space is complex. Mistakes will be made, and problems will happen. With those truths in mind, RelyEx has built its reputation as problem solvers. Unlike other drayage companies, we don't shy away from this industry's complexities because we take pride in solving problems. Even better, we aim to do what's needed to avoid those problems altogether.
As your logistics partner, we will provide your company with accurate, transparent, and prompt communication. If there are unexpected issues, we'll notify you immediately and will provide several options to remedy the problem. We even offer custom reporting for large clients who need at-the-moment updates and quick access to shipment documentation.
Why let the unpredictability of your industry dictate your success? With a background working in manufacturing, our founders are familiar with the demands of managing production schedules and sales orders. That experience makes it abundantly clear to us that every business and industry is different. If you struggle with seasonal surges or other factors, our team supports your business with a mapped-out plan and schedule, so you stay ahead of the game.
QUOTE REQUESTBased in the port city of Dallas, RelyEx has a keen understanding of the challenges of managing the inbound and outbound flow of containers. Our team of container drayage experts provides your business with unique solutions to nuanced shipping problems, minimizing demurrage and ensuring the successful delivery of your freight.
Demurrage is a charge issued by a port, carrier, or railroad company for storing containers that do not load and unload their cargo promptly. Once the daily limit of free time is exceeded, shippers are charged daily demurrage fees until their cargo is shipped. Though different ports have different policies, charges can range from $75 to $150 per container, per day, for a set number of days. Additional demurrage fees are incurred if a shipper exceeds the port's parameters.
Even when shippers maintain a tight schedule for unloading freight, external factors can play an uncontrollable part. Typically, shipping mistakes caused by human error trigger the most demurrage charges. Some of the most common causes of demurrage include:
Typically, shippers need four specific documents to clear shipments through customs: A Bill of Lading (or BOL), a commercial invoice, a packing list, and an arrival notice. Seasoned drayage brokers like RelyEx are used to preparing these documents, but new shippers tend to miss this step due to inexperience.
If a shipper only pays for part of their shipment, a vessel operator may refuse to release their freight until their bill is fully paid. Payment delays lead to cargo detention at the port of entry, which triggers demurrage charges.
QUOTE REQUESTPaperwork is needed when you're shipping goods with a drayage company. When documents like the Certificate of Origin or Bill of Lading arrive at their destination late, you can expect demurrage fees. RelyEx avoids this situation entirely by being proactive when submitting paperwork.
Additional causes for demurrage fees can include:
At RelyEx, we know first-hand how stressful supply chain problems can be for business owners. Though drayage shipping might seem minor on the surface, it affects every stage of your shipping process. And when inevitable hurdles manifest, RelyEx propels you over the proverbial roadblocks with a proactive mindset and a passion for challenging projects. We believe that all problems have a solution, and our unique vantage point allows us to provide first-hand solutions to customers in a wide array of industries.
When it comes to your business, don't settle for anything less than RelyEx. Contact our office today to learn more about how we make your shipping experience streamlined and stress-free.
843-885-3082Instead of braving the grocery store and being stuck in the kitchen during the holidays, consider heading to one of Dallas’ finest restaurants. The food will probably be better, requiring cleaning decidedly fewer dishes. Reservations are strongly recommended at all these spots.From low-key and easy to fancy multi-course feasts, these restaurants keep the grills warm on Christmas Day. Go forth, tip big, and remember to celebrate safely....
Instead of braving the grocery store and being stuck in the kitchen during the holidays, consider heading to one of Dallas’ finest restaurants. The food will probably be better, requiring cleaning decidedly fewer dishes. Reservations are strongly recommended at all these spots.
From low-key and easy to fancy multi-course feasts, these restaurants keep the grills warm on Christmas Day. Go forth, tip big, and remember to celebrate safely.
Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.
For those who want to go all-in on holiday cheer, make a reservation at this restaurant in the Hotel Vin in Grapevine. The holiday meal includes herb-roasted prime rib served with truffle mash and crispy Brussels sprouts, and the dessert is a chocolate marquise. Then head over to the hotel bar that is fully immersed in Christmas decor, and stroll on Grapevine’s Main Street, right outside the hotel doors, for a holly jolly holiday.
Head into this sustainable seafood restaurant at the Galleria for oysters, a seafood tower, sushi, clam chowder, and an array of classic and Texas-style seafood dishes for the big holiday meal. It also offers a long list of steaks and add-ons.
Georgie is putting together a three-course Christmas meal for the holiday that will cost $150 per person or $50 for children 12 and under. The last we heard from the chef, the menu is still coming together, but it will be phenomenal based on what RJ Yoakum has been whipping up lately.
Leave fancy behind and go for excellent dumplings at this spot. The dumpling sampler is a must for first-timers, and for those who’ve tried it, go all in on the soup dumplings and the filling you love best. For dinner for a crowd, go wild on family-style small plates and entrees to celebrate. The bright colors inside make it feel festive here, no matter what time of year it is.
There is nothing more stately (or Dallas-y) than a holiday meal at the Mansion. This year, it offers a three-course prix fixe menu that costs $150 per adult or $65 per child, ages 4 to 12. The menu options include hamachi crudo, mustard and black pepper prime rib with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Amish chicken with chestnut stuffing, and for dessert a gingerbread creme brulee.
Head to the coast of Italy for a decadent holiday meal at this Harwood district restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Help yourself to a brunch buffet with an omelet bar, bruschetta bar, carving station, and dessert station. That offer runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $85 per person (free for children under four and $40 for kids 5 to 12). The restaurant will also be open and serving its regular menu for dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, pastas, and classics, including osso bucco, roast chicken, and lobster tail scampi.
Among the few who haven’t yet had Carbone’s famous spicy rigatoni vodka? Make the holiday your chance to splurge and try it, along with Dover piccata, ribeye Diana, and a slice of that heavenly lemon cheesecake.
For the early eaters, land here for a Christmas day brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Feast on a yellowtail sashimi jalapeno and grilled salmon teriyaki, Nobu eggs Benedict with snow crab, chicken karaage, matcha mochi waffles. The cost is $75 per person and a $38 kids bento that includes a shrimp tempura roll, chicken skewers with teriyaki, inaniwa udon yuzu gutter soy and a choice of mochi ice cream or sorbet is available.
Go for a classic holiday with a plate of beef Wellington made using Harwood Beef at this elegant steakhouse in the Hotel Swexan for $98. Wellington isn’t on the everyday menu, and this exclusive in-house beef is made from 28-day-aged Akaushi beef that’s locally raised.
Can’t go wrong with celebrating Christmas at Fearing’s in the Ritz-Carlton. Make reservations to join a Christmas holiday buffet and enjoy the raw seafood bar with fresh crab and oysters, herb-crusted prime rib, salads, soups, desserts, freshly baked bread, and more. Service will last from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., costing $175 per person, $50 per child under 12, and $90 per person for vegetarians.
This underappreciated restaurant in the Hall Arts Hotel is an excellent Christmas Day option. It will offer a three-course prix fixe menu for $85 per person all day. The menu includes a choice of pan-roasted sturgeon with parsnip puree, grilled fennel, and caviar Hall Chardonnay butter sauce or peppercorn-crusted roast filet mignon with duck fat fingerling confit, braised baby turnips, and porcini mushroom bordelaise.
This Deep Ellum Mediterranean spot will serve its regular menu on Christmas day from 2 p.m. to midnight. It’s a great spot for groups, and plates of kebabs, lamb sliders, and shawarma with beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option are all solid orders.
For those who want to go all-in on holiday cheer, make a reservation at this restaurant in the Hotel Vin in Grapevine. The holiday meal includes herb-roasted prime rib served with truffle mash and crispy Brussels sprouts, and the dessert is a chocolate marquise. Then head over to the hotel bar that is fully immersed in Christmas decor, and stroll on Grapevine’s Main Street, right outside the hotel doors, for a holly jolly holiday.
Head into this sustainable seafood restaurant at the Galleria for oysters, a seafood tower, sushi, clam chowder, and an array of classic and Texas-style seafood dishes for the big holiday meal. It also offers a long list of steaks and add-ons.
Georgie is putting together a three-course Christmas meal for the holiday that will cost $150 per person or $50 for children 12 and under. The last we heard from the chef, the menu is still coming together, but it will be phenomenal based on what RJ Yoakum has been whipping up lately.
Leave fancy behind and go for excellent dumplings at this spot. The dumpling sampler is a must for first-timers, and for those who’ve tried it, go all in on the soup dumplings and the filling you love best. For dinner for a crowd, go wild on family-style small plates and entrees to celebrate. The bright colors inside make it feel festive here, no matter what time of year it is.
There is nothing more stately (or Dallas-y) than a holiday meal at the Mansion. This year, it offers a three-course prix fixe menu that costs $150 per adult or $65 per child, ages 4 to 12. The menu options include hamachi crudo, mustard and black pepper prime rib with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Amish chicken with chestnut stuffing, and for dessert a gingerbread creme brulee.
Head to the coast of Italy for a decadent holiday meal at this Harwood district restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Help yourself to a brunch buffet with an omelet bar, bruschetta bar, carving station, and dessert station. That offer runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $85 per person (free for children under four and $40 for kids 5 to 12). The restaurant will also be open and serving its regular menu for dinner from 6 to 10 p.m. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, pastas, and classics, including osso bucco, roast chicken, and lobster tail scampi.
Among the few who haven’t yet had Carbone’s famous spicy rigatoni vodka? Make the holiday your chance to splurge and try it, along with Dover piccata, ribeye Diana, and a slice of that heavenly lemon cheesecake.
For the early eaters, land here for a Christmas day brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Feast on a yellowtail sashimi jalapeno and grilled salmon teriyaki, Nobu eggs Benedict with snow crab, chicken karaage, matcha mochi waffles. The cost is $75 per person and a $38 kids bento that includes a shrimp tempura roll, chicken skewers with teriyaki, inaniwa udon yuzu gutter soy and a choice of mochi ice cream or sorbet is available.
Go for a classic holiday with a plate of beef Wellington made using Harwood Beef at this elegant steakhouse in the Hotel Swexan for $98. Wellington isn’t on the everyday menu, and this exclusive in-house beef is made from 28-day-aged Akaushi beef that’s locally raised.
Can’t go wrong with celebrating Christmas at Fearing’s in the Ritz-Carlton. Make reservations to join a Christmas holiday buffet and enjoy the raw seafood bar with fresh crab and oysters, herb-crusted prime rib, salads, soups, desserts, freshly baked bread, and more. Service will last from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., costing $175 per person, $50 per child under 12, and $90 per person for vegetarians.
This underappreciated restaurant in the Hall Arts Hotel is an excellent Christmas Day option. It will offer a three-course prix fixe menu for $85 per person all day. The menu includes a choice of pan-roasted sturgeon with parsnip puree, grilled fennel, and caviar Hall Chardonnay butter sauce or peppercorn-crusted roast filet mignon with duck fat fingerling confit, braised baby turnips, and porcini mushroom bordelaise.
This Deep Ellum Mediterranean spot will serve its regular menu on Christmas day from 2 p.m. to midnight. It’s a great spot for groups, and plates of kebabs, lamb sliders, and shawarma with beef, chicken, or a vegetarian option are all solid orders.
This time of year might not bring peace to everyone, but that's because food insecurity doesn't take a break during the holidays. The two largest food banks in North Texas are stepping up to fill the pantries of families need ahead of Christmas.Throughout the week, Tarrant Area Food Bank is hosting Mega Mobile food distribution events in Denton and Parker counties...
This time of year might not bring peace to everyone, but that's because food insecurity doesn't take a break during the holidays. The two largest food banks in North Texas are stepping up to fill the pantries of families need ahead of Christmas.
Throughout the week, Tarrant Area Food Bank is hosting Mega Mobile food distribution events in Denton and Parker counties.
These events follow Tarrant Area Food Bank’s recent Mega Mobile Distribution in Tarrant County at Dickies Arena which served more than 2,000 families, exceeding the Food Bank’s projections. To date, TAFB has served more than 16,000 families through its Holiday Mega Mobile Distributions.
The Tarrant Area Food Bank North Branch will be hosting an event in Denton County on Tuesday, Dec. 19, from 10 a.m. until noon on the UNT Campus, Lot 20 (Old Fouts Field Parking Lot), 700 North Texas Boulevard.
Then, just two days later in Parker County, the Tarrant Area Food Bank West Branch will host a Mega Mobile on Thursday, Dec. 21, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Weatherford High School parking lot, 2121 Bethel Road.
Attendees of both mobile distributions can expect to receive food for both a holiday meal, as well as non-perishable items to sustain them throughout the holiday season to help families in need while kids are out of school for winter break.
"These families are typically working but they're not earning a living wage and have difficulty making it from paycheck to paycheck. And that's who we aim to support at our mega mobile events,” said Julie Butner, president and CEO of the Tarrant Area Food Bank.
Meantime, North Texas Food Bank is also seeing an increase in need this season.
“Over the last couple of months at the North Texas Food Bank, we have provided access to more meals than we were seeing at the height of the pandemic,” said Jeff Smith with NTFB.
The food bank provided access to 10.7 million physical meals, which is one of the highest numbers in the organization’s history.
"So it just goes to show that that inflation is really impacting our neighbors,” said Smith. “They're kind of struggling to make some choices between purchasing groceries or paying for other necessities like housing, utilities and gas."
According to the NTFB, more than 600,000 people in North Texas are food insecure – that’s enough to fill Globe Life Field 16 times.
Being food insecure means those individuals don't have access to healthy meals and groceries. While they might have access to fast food, they may live in a food desert that prevents them from accessing healthy food that can benefit their health.
“You have to consider also that during the holiday season, food isn't just about nourishment. It's a way for people to connect and celebrate and spend time with loved ones. So when food is missing, it leaves a hole bigger than hunger itself,” said Smith. “So we just want to make sure that we are helping provide the necessities during the holiday season so that people can connect with the ones that they love.”
NTFB is hosting several food distribution events this week and next week:
These aren’t the only opportunities for families to get access to food. Both food banks partner with hundreds of agencies and organizations throughout North Texas, which have daily or weekly hours and opportunities to come pick up food or deliver food.
To find food within the Tarrant Area Food Bank service area, click here. To find food from North Texas Food Bank, click here.
One of the largest potential development tracts south of Dallas just hit the market.The 5,400-acre South Creek Ranch near Ferris is located on Interstate 45 about 20 miles south of Dallas.With rolling hills, ponds, creeks and trees, the land is one of the largest such development sites in the region.The huge spread has been partially developed with a hom...
One of the largest potential development tracts south of Dallas just hit the market.
The 5,400-acre South Creek Ranch near Ferris is located on Interstate 45 about 20 miles south of Dallas.
With rolling hills, ponds, creeks and trees, the land is one of the largest such development sites in the region.
The huge spread has been partially developed with a home community called Woodstone. But the bulk of the property is used for cattle and growing hay.
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There’s a 23,000-square-foot stone mansion that was built on the property in 2000 that overlooks a small lake. The property totals 8.4 square miles.
South Creek Ranch also has ranch headquarters buildings, barns and other homes on the land which is in both Ellis and Dallas counties.
“South Creek Ranch was founded in 1970s,” according to real estate broker Icon Global Group that’s marketing the property. “Over the decades the ranch has been expanded upon, increasing in acreage, building size as well has upgrading and investment in many ranch and homestead infrastructure improvements since.
“For many years, the ranch has been operated as a true working cattle ranch,” according to the brokers. “It also served as a family retreat and for occasional political, social and corporate entertainment.”
The future Loop 9 highway corridor runs along the north boundary of the ranch at Malloy Bridge Road.
The ranch along Ten Mile Creek was previously “the beloved home and private estate of a well-known Dallas industrial pioneer,” according to Icon Global.
The late businessman W. Ray Wallace, who was the CEO of Dallas-based Trinity Industries, acquired the property and used the ranch for decades until his death in 2016.
The ranch is being sold out of Wallace’s trust. The selling price was not disclosed.
“It’s a stunning piece of property,” said Icon Global founder Bernard Uechtritz. “We’ve had significant interest from developers and land bankers.
“It’s a prime piece of real estate with Loop 9 going in adjacent to it coming all the way from Red Oak on the other side of Interstate 35.”
Uechtritz said the trust wants to sell the huge property in one piece.
“We selling the property as is and not doing deals with developers contingent on entitlements,” he said.
Homebuilding activity is picking up in Ellis County near Ferris.
The town of almost 3,000 residents was long been known as the “brick capital of the nation” because the area was once home to a large number of brick plants.
South Creek Ranch should get a lot of interest from potential builder and developer buyers, said Dallas housing analyst Ted Wilson with Residential Strategies.
“It is rare to see land parcels of that size come to the market in D-FW, especially with adjacency to a major freeway,” Wilson said. “Historically, Ferris has produced value-oriented housing, so it will be interesting to see whether the ultimate purchaser of the property continues with this price channel or tries to position the property as a more upscale master-planned community.”
The South Creek Ranch is one of several big Texas properties Icon Global is offering for sale.
The property broker is also marketing the Three Nails Ranch west of Fort Worth.
And Icon Global just sold NFL Hall of Fame player Terry Bradshaw’s ranch north of Dallas near the Red River in Oklahoma.
Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition, searching for a perfect space to host a baby or bridal shower, or want an extra special afternoon treat, odds are there’s a spot in DFW for tea service that will suit your taste.Some are in luxe hotels, while others are inside French bistros, restaurants, bakeries, and chocolate shops. Some feature simple sandwiches, exclusive teas or obsessed-over details. All offer up a unique experience steeped in tradition and worth savoring. Add one or more of these to your to-sip list,...
Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition, searching for a perfect space to host a baby or bridal shower, or want an extra special afternoon treat, odds are there’s a spot in DFW for tea service that will suit your taste.
Some are in luxe hotels, while others are inside French bistros, restaurants, bakeries, and chocolate shops. Some feature simple sandwiches, exclusive teas or obsessed-over details. All offer up a unique experience steeped in tradition and worth savoring. Add one or more of these to your to-sip list, and remember to keep those pinkies up!
Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.
Heirloom Haul inside Flea Style at the Star in Frisco is designed to be a modern version of the cafes in classic antique malls. The spot’s unique tea parties are a stylish way to treat your guests. For a less formal outing, the $35 per person adult service includes tea assorted hot and iced teas, small bites, and desserts, all served on vintage china. For $20, kids can enjoy finger sandwiches, desserts, and kid-friendly sips.
The French high tea at this spot is available every day but Sundays and Mondays when the bistro is closed. Service includes finger sandwiches, a mini pastry plate, tea breads, scones, and tea for $24.
Home to many a tea party, baby shower, and bridal brunch, Chocolate Angel Cafe and Tea Rooms in Richardson and Plano offer assorted scones, tea sandwiches, petit quiches, tartlets and pastries, plus a curated selection of loose-leaf teas paired with each course. Reservations are required for afternoon tea, which is available daily.
Every Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., the team at Bangkok at Beltline in Richardson serves a Thai afternoon tea. It comes complete with Thai spins on finger sandwiches, specially-flavored sweet treats (Thai tea and green tea-flavored macarons often make appearances), and creations you won’t find anywhere else. The cost is $39.95 per person, and reservations are required for this unique tea experience for up to 40 guests.
At this chocolate-obsessed cafe in Oak Lawn, a $75 traditional tea is served with tea sandwiches, deviled eggs, scones, macarons, and hand-crafted truffles and bonbons. Service is available Monday through Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m.
This intimate space will host tea times on December 17 and 24 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The menu includes a two-course serving of mini croissant green egg salad with crispy jamon, smoked salmon on sourdough with cream cheese and soy pickled cucumbers, smoked chicken salad on endive with honey mustard, an array of pastries, and of course tea (two pairings offered) with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Plus additional drinks, including a mimosa, sparkling wines, and Champagnes to add-on and a caviar add-on. The cost is $75 per adult and $35 for children. Make reservations online.
Nutcracker Holiday Tea at Hotel Crescent Court offers a classic service in a beautiful outdoor setting every Saturday and Sunday at noon and 1 p.m. The experience consists of gourmet tea selections, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries served with house-made strawberry preserves and clotted cream and live music.
Tim Love is flinging open the doors of his members-only club to host afternoon tea for the holiday season Wednesday to Saturday from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. Call to make reservations and enjoy savory and sweet bites like cucumber and herbed Boursin sandwiches and Godiva Chocolate Profiterole. Tea is $70 per person, with glasses of Champagne available for an additional charge. Kids are welcome and dressing up is encouraged.
For a punchy yet elegant and chic tea service, head to the Joule hotel’s Taschen Library. Inside a jewel box of a room outfitted with communal tables seating, guests can sip tea and champagne surrounded by art, color and culture. Every savory and sweet bite is expertly paired with fruity to spicy teas described in detail by the team at the Joule before each course. Tea at Taschen is $125 per person, including taxes, gratuity and valet (and includes a book to take home). Reserve at least 48 hours in advance, available select Sundays through December.
One of Dallas’s most famous tea services, The French Room, is amping it up this year with service seven days a week This $75 fancy tea service features two courses, including tea sandwiches and savory bites, numerous cups of tea curated by the Adolphus’ Tea Sommelier, and glasses of champagne or non-alcoholic cider. Children are welcome and service for them is $35.
Afternoon tea at this Oak Cliff gem is an intimate affair. Friday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with at least 48 hours advance notice, guests 13 and older can enjoy a five-course tasting menu and a tea tower stacked with seasonal sweet and savory patisserie. Service is “BYOC” with a $10 champagne corking fee. There are a large array of teas available for the service.
Heirloom Haul inside Flea Style at the Star in Frisco is designed to be a modern version of the cafes in classic antique malls. The spot’s unique tea parties are a stylish way to treat your guests. For a less formal outing, the $35 per person adult service includes tea assorted hot and iced teas, small bites, and desserts, all served on vintage china. For $20, kids can enjoy finger sandwiches, desserts, and kid-friendly sips.
The French high tea at this spot is available every day but Sundays and Mondays when the bistro is closed. Service includes finger sandwiches, a mini pastry plate, tea breads, scones, and tea for $24.
Home to many a tea party, baby shower, and bridal brunch, Chocolate Angel Cafe and Tea Rooms in Richardson and Plano offer assorted scones, tea sandwiches, petit quiches, tartlets and pastries, plus a curated selection of loose-leaf teas paired with each course. Reservations are required for afternoon tea, which is available daily.
Every Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m., the team at Bangkok at Beltline in Richardson serves a Thai afternoon tea. It comes complete with Thai spins on finger sandwiches, specially-flavored sweet treats (Thai tea and green tea-flavored macarons often make appearances), and creations you won’t find anywhere else. The cost is $39.95 per person, and reservations are required for this unique tea experience for up to 40 guests.
At this chocolate-obsessed cafe in Oak Lawn, a $75 traditional tea is served with tea sandwiches, deviled eggs, scones, macarons, and hand-crafted truffles and bonbons. Service is available Monday through Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m.
This intimate space will host tea times on December 17 and 24 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The menu includes a two-course serving of mini croissant green egg salad with crispy jamon, smoked salmon on sourdough with cream cheese and soy pickled cucumbers, smoked chicken salad on endive with honey mustard, an array of pastries, and of course tea (two pairings offered) with a complimentary glass of Champagne. Plus additional drinks, including a mimosa, sparkling wines, and Champagnes to add-on and a caviar add-on. The cost is $75 per adult and $35 for children. Make reservations online.
Nutcracker Holiday Tea at Hotel Crescent Court offers a classic service in a beautiful outdoor setting every Saturday and Sunday at noon and 1 p.m. The experience consists of gourmet tea selections, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries served with house-made strawberry preserves and clotted cream and live music.
Tim Love is flinging open the doors of his members-only club to host afternoon tea for the holiday season Wednesday to Saturday from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. Call to make reservations and enjoy savory and sweet bites like cucumber and herbed Boursin sandwiches and Godiva Chocolate Profiterole. Tea is $70 per person, with glasses of Champagne available for an additional charge. Kids are welcome and dressing up is encouraged.
For a punchy yet elegant and chic tea service, head to the Joule hotel’s Taschen Library. Inside a jewel box of a room outfitted with communal tables seating, guests can sip tea and champagne surrounded by art, color and culture. Every savory and sweet bite is expertly paired with fruity to spicy teas described in detail by the team at the Joule before each course. Tea at Taschen is $125 per person, including taxes, gratuity and valet (and includes a book to take home). Reserve at least 48 hours in advance, available select Sundays through December.
One of Dallas’s most famous tea services, The French Room, is amping it up this year with service seven days a week This $75 fancy tea service features two courses, including tea sandwiches and savory bites, numerous cups of tea curated by the Adolphus’ Tea Sommelier, and glasses of champagne or non-alcoholic cider. Children are welcome and service for them is $35.
Afternoon tea at this Oak Cliff gem is an intimate affair. Friday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., with at least 48 hours advance notice, guests 13 and older can enjoy a five-course tasting menu and a tea tower stacked with seasonal sweet and savory patisserie. Service is “BYOC” with a $10 champagne corking fee. There are a large array of teas available for the service.
December 22, Noon| Thanks-Giving SquareThere is one Christmas tradition worth (lightly) bundling up for: TubaChristmas is celebrating its 50th year. The premise is simple: Play the tuba? Head downtown and sign up, then do a brief rehearsal of several Christmas tunes before the crowd arrives. Enjoy Christmas music, but don’t know your tuba from your sousaphone? Come see the feat of several dozen tuba players making music while you sing along. Is it cacophony? Yes. Is it fun? Also yes. See details ...
December 22, Noon| Thanks-Giving SquareThere is one Christmas tradition worth (lightly) bundling up for: TubaChristmas is celebrating its 50th year. The premise is simple: Play the tuba? Head downtown and sign up, then do a brief rehearsal of several Christmas tunes before the crowd arrives. Enjoy Christmas music, but don’t know your tuba from your sousaphone? Come see the feat of several dozen tuba players making music while you sing along. Is it cacophony? Yes. Is it fun? Also yes. See details here, and get updates on the local Facebook page.
December 22, 7 p.m.| Majestic TheatreMariachi Sol de Mexico will bring its fusion of authentic Mexican music and holiday tunes to the Majestic Theatre on Friday night. The concert will feature the 13-piece band, led by Jose Hernandez, bringing Mexican and American Christmas songs to life in what has become an annual holiday tradition.
December 22, 10 p.m, then December 30 at 8 p.m..| Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth; then Longhorn BallroomKevin Fowler will bring his Deck the Dancehalls tour to Cowtown Friday night and then drop by the Longhorn Ballroom on December 30. The Amarillo native’s debut album, Beer, Bait, & Ammo, was released 23 years ago. His 2010 single “Pound Sign” hit the Top 40. Kin Faux will open on Friday, and Wynn Williams will perform on December 30.
December 28-30| Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort WorthThe Turnpike Troubadors went on hiatus in 2019, but have since circled back and hit the road. A handful of reunion shows and some mid-sized concerts over the last couple of years got them ready for an arena tour with the Avett Brothers this year, and they’ll finish off a busy 2023 with three nights at Billy Bob’s Texas.
December 30-31| Dallas Market Hall This year was…a lot, and how better to send it off than two nights of goodbyes instead of one? Lights All Night will offer plenty of electronic music over two nights, including AC Slater, Apashe, Skrillex, Sultan + Shepard, and Westend. VIP tables and lockers—some with phone charging capabilities—are also available.
December 30, 8 p.m.| The Factory in Deep EllumNorth Texas favorite and Fort Worth natives The Toadies will hit Deep Ellum on December 30. The band has been out on the road a great deal this year and also covered Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone” for the Texas Parks and Wildlife compilation album Texas Wild. (Fellow Texan Ryan Bingham covered the band’s classic “Possum Kingdom.“) Riverboat Gamblers will open.
December 31, 8:30 p.m.| Dickies Arena, Fort WorthTexan Parker McCollum will play the very last show of the year at Dickies Arena on Sunday night. McCollum’s mix of traditional country and rock catapulted him into mainstream country music two years ago, and his newest album, Never Enough, saw the lead single, “Handle on You,” hit No. 2 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in May. Catie Offerman and Corey Kent will open.
December 31, 9 p.m.| Longhorn BallroomWhile “Dixie Chicken” may be Little Feat’s biggest hit, it’s not the band’s only one. And it’s definitely not indicative of the band’s entire catalog, either. That’s not a surprise when you remember that founder Lowell George was fired from the Mothers of Invention by Frank Zappa and told to start his own band. Expect to hear some of their other hits on New Year’s Eve, including “Willin’,” “Easy to Slip,” “Cold, Cold, Cold,” and “Trouble.”
December 31, 9 p.m.| Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall, Fort WorthTreaty Oak Revival will close out 2023 at Tannahill’s Tavern after a full year of touring in support of its debut album, No Vacancy. The Odessa-based band has steadily gained new Texas country/Red Dirt fans since it formed in 2019, in outings that included an appearance in this year’s inaugural Fort Worth Music Festival.
Also check out:
Grady Spencer & the Work, Dec. 21, 9 p.m.,Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth. Get tickets.
Mark Curry, Dec. 21-22, Arlington Improv, Arlington. Get tickets.
Kings Return, Dec. 22, 7 p.m., The Kessler. Get tickets.
Dezi 5, 88 Killa, Cayuga All Stars Dec. 23, 5 p.m., Tulip’s, Fort Worth . Get tickets.
Sajjan Raj Vaidya, Dec. 23, 6:30 p.m., Texas Trust Credit Union Theater, Grand Prairie. Get tickets.
Ten Hands, Dec. 23, 7 p.m., Texas Theatre. Get tickets.
We Them Grays, Dec. 23, 7 p.m., Echo Lounge & Music Hall. Get tickets.
Patrice Pike, Dec. 23, 8:30 p.m., Poor David’s Pub. Get tickets.
Tanner Usery, Dec. 23, 10 p.m., Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth. Get tickets.
Louie TheSinger and Paul Wall, Dec. 27, 9 p.m., Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth. Get tickets.
Uncle Lucious and Shinyribs, Dec. 29, 8 p.m., Longhorn Ballroom. Get tickets.
Weezer, Dec. 29, 8 p.m., Choctaw Grand Theater, Durant, Oklahoma. Get tickets.
DeVotchKa, Dec. 30, 8 p.m., Tulips, Fort Worth. Get tickets.
K. Flay, Dec. 30, 8 p.m., Trees. Get tickets.
Bob Schneider, Dec. 30, 9 p.m., Granada Theater. Get tickets.
Meow Wolf Adultiverse NYE, Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Meow Wolf, Grapevine. Get tickets.
PANIC and Pretty in Pink, Dec. 31, 8 p.m., Texas Theatre. Get tickets.
Blake Shelton, Dec. 31, 9 p.m., WinStar World Casino, Thackerville, Oklahoma. Get tickets.
Drake Milligan, Dec. 31, 10 p.m., Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth. Get tickets.
One More Time, Dec. 31, 10 p.m., Stereo Live. Get tickets.
Listen to the playlist below to hear songs by artists performing in North Texas over the holidays.