TRAVEL GUIDE | CABANA TRAVEL | WORLD OF CABANA

As artisanal fashion brand Mi Golondrina pops up at The Cabana Store in Milan, founder Cristina Lynch shares a guide to her hometown, Dallas. Discover the vintage ‘institution’ she frequents for inspiration, a hidden treasure that serves up the best soufflés and her tried and tested itinerary for a perfect summer weekend in the city.

BY CRISTINA LYNCH | CABANA TRAVEL | 19 JUNE 2025

My Favorite Place to Stay: Swexan 

I love the Swexan so much. It feels like an escape right in the heart of Dallas. We’re members of their private membership club, Golightly, and it’s our go-to spot when we need a peaceful moment. The sauna, steam room, and gym are incredible.

My husband and I often go together before date night, which feels like such a treat. The restaurants are all beautiful and delicious, and the pool has such a fun, lively energy. Their Italian restaurant, Leonie’s, in particular, is a favorite. It’s the best spot for taking in the sunset, and the food is consistently amazing. 

My Favorite Restaurant: Le PasSage

That’s a tough one. Dallas truly has an incredible food scene. Right now, my favorite is Le PasSage. It’s tucked inside the Terminal building, next to the Katy Trail, a beautiful walkway that connects much of the city. The space feels elegant but welcoming, and the unique menu is thoughtful and always hits the spot.

My Favorite Café: Mercat Bistro

Mercat Bistro is such a gem. It’s technically also one of my favorite restaurants, but I especially love it in the mornings. Their cappuccino and almond croissant are hard to beat. The setting feels like a little escape to Europe, and it’s one of the places where I feel most relaxed.

My Favorite Museum or Gallery: 12.26

One of my good friends, Hannah, has an incredible gallery called 12.26. The work she brings in is always inspiring. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re discovering something new every time you visit. I also love the Nasher Sculpture Center. It’s such a peaceful and beautiful space, and I love taking my kids there. There’s something really grounding about walking through those sculptures together as a family.

My Favorite Shops: 

Of course, I must mention my brand, Mi Golondrina, which has just reopened its storefront in Dallas, open Monday through Friday from 10am to 2pm. It is such a joy to constantly create beautiful new embroidered designs with our artisan partners throughout Mexico.

Canary is also one of my favorite places to shop. My friend Molly is the store director, and she helps curate such an incredible mix of pieces that truly feel like wearable art. There’s a story behind everything, and I always leave feeling inspired, whether I’m shopping for something special or just visiting.

My Favorite Antique Store: Nick Brock Antiques

I turned to my dear friend and interior designer, Noel Pittman, for this. She always knows the best places for antiques and vintage treasures. One of her favorites is Nick Brock Antiques, which she described as “an institution” in Dallas.

She said, “He has the best eye. You always find something special.” I completely trust her taste, and I love how every piece there feels unique and storied. It’s one of those places where you walk in and immediately feel inspired.

My Favorite Garden or Green Space: The Dallas Arboretum

The Dallas Arboretum is such a gift to our city. It’s beautiful in every season, but I especially love sitting on the hill that overlooks White Rock Lake. One of my favorite things to do is grab sandwiches from Jimmy’s Italian Food Store and have a picnic with the kids. It’s simple, but it feels so special every time.

My Favorite Cozy Bar:
Clifton Club

Clifton Club is such a fun little spot. It’s intimate, the lighting is just right, and it always feels like you’ve stumbled into something special. It’s a great place to catch up with friends or sneak in a quiet drink with my husband.

My Favorite Hidden Treasure: Rise No.1

Rise No. 1 is one of my favorite hidden gems in Dallas. It’s a cozy French soufflé bistro tucked into Inwood Village, and every detail feels thoughtful and inviting. I’m good friends with Hedda, the founder, which makes it even more special to me. The atmosphere is warm and whimsical, the soufflés are incredible, and it’s one of those places that always feels like a treat, whether I’m there with family or catching up with a friend.

My Favorite Way to Spend a Weekend in Dallas:

In the summer, I absolutely love going to the Saint Michael’s Farmers Market. It’s full of local vendors. Bresnan has the most amazing sourdough. 840 Farms has fresh eggs and bacon. Flowerhill sells gorgeous florals, and Baugh Farms has the best seasonal produce.

There’s usually a live band playing, and the kids can run around on the playground. It’s the best kind of weekend morning. In the evenings, we might do a date night at Green Point Seafood and Oyster Bar. It’s cozy and romantic. I also love brunch at Origin in Knox Henderson. It’s casual, cheerful, and always delicious.