ELLA, an intimate, American bistro with modern comfort food in an upscale setting located at 7949 Walnut Hill Ln #130, Dallas, TX in the former Chido Taco Lounge space is set to open on Tuesday, June 17.
The concept comes from local restaurateur Blaine McGowan, whose vision for ELLA is to create a space where exceptional food, cocktails, and hospitality converge in an environment that feels both refined yet approachable. ELLA will be open for dinner service with lunch and weekend brunch launching at a later date.
The 2,500 square foot space with 63 seats, including bar seating, — plus an additional 600-square-foot mezzanine—ELLA blends neighborhood charm with destination dining. On the mezzanine, the existing Customs Speakeasy will remain open, offering craft cocktails crafted with premium Mexican spirits from talented bartender, Jairo Castillo.
At the helm of ELLA’s beverage program and service experience is Julian Shaffer, serving as both General Manager and Beverage Director. Shaffer recently made history as the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Texas Exceptional Cocktails Award winner—the first time this award has ever been given, as Texas was newly welcomed into the MICHELIN fold. His innovative and elevated approach to classic cocktails in his former position as Bar Manager at Rye has earned national recognition and now sets the tone for the guest experience at ELLA. Shaffer is redefining what it means to enjoy world-class service and cocktails in a neighborhood setting.
In the kitchen, Executive Chef Kyle Farr delivers a menu that is as comforting as it is refined. Farr’s impressive background includes Executive Sous Chef at MICHELIN-recognized Dallas favorite Sachet and Executive Chef at beloved Bishop Arts bistro, Boulevardier. At ELLA, his menu spans elevated comfort fare and chef-driven classics. His approach combines technical mastery with heartfelt flavor, presenting familiar dishes with sophisticated flair.
“We wanted to bring something to the neighborhood that wasn’t there—something welcoming and refined. We want to hit on all cylinders with this concept: exceptional food, drinks, and service,” says ELLA Owner, Blaine McGowan. “With Julian and Kyle leading the way, we have an opportunity to do something very special and bring a new experience to Dallas. Service is of the utmost importance to us, and we plan to provide guests with an amazing experience all around. Our focus is on the people, both employees and guests.”
A number of standout dishes from ELLA’s menu showcase the creative yet approachable culinary philosophy of Executive Chef Kyle Farr. The Shrimp and Masa Dumplings are a vibrant starter, with roasted peppers and tomato with charred broccolini; and the Steak Tartare, made with tenderloin, Dijon, cured egg yolk, and served with fresh bread. The Pork Cheeks, served with orange jus, roasted carrots, and sunchokes; the Bolognese, made with fresh pappardelle tossed in a house-made sauce and finished with parmesan; the Short Rib, slow-braised in red wine and accompanied by smoked sweet potato and charred broccolini; the Salmon entrée—plated with roasted beet purée, chickpeas, parsnips, and roasted carrots.
The cocktail program at ELLA, crafted by award-winning Beverage Director Julian Shaffer, is a dynamic showcase of inventive flavors and elevated technique. Signature creations include the Chocolate Raspberries – brandy, raspberry, and cocoa butter; Poached Pear – brandy and Riesling with miso brown butter and fresh pear; Summer Daiquiri – Charanda (a Mexican sugarcane spirit) with watermelon and mint; Salsa Verde Ranch Water – tequila and mezcal with tomatillo and citrus; and the Shiso Gin and Tonic – gin, shiso, Szechuan peppercorn, and tonic.
The ELLA space has a female-forward feel blending modern design with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests arrive through a romantically lit patio into an interior that feels both warm and polished. Earthy green paneled walls, dramatic 12-foot globe chandeliers, a rosy red tiled bar, and cozy booths blend old-world sensibility with modern charm. Hidden behind elegant drapery lies a semi-secret staircase that leads guests to Customs.
ELLA will be open for dinner service Tuesday – Saturday 4 pm – 10 pm with lunch and weekend brunch launching at a later date. Customs is currently open and serves cocktails Tuesday – Saturday 5 pm – midnight.
