DALLAS - s4story -- The Southern Taste of Dallas Awards will return for its third annual awards gala on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at On the Levee, celebrating the restaurants, chefs, food trucks and culinary entrepreneurs shaping North Texas' diverse food scene.

Founded by Brittany "Luscious" Criswell and powered by restaurateur Rickey Booker, Sr., the awards recognize the contributions of Black and Latino-owned restaurants and food businesses that continue to elevate Dallas as a premier culinary destination.

This year's theme, "Cowboy Culture," invites guests to embrace Western-inspired fashion for an evening featuring a red-carpet experience, VIP reception, live entertainment, and the presentation of community-nominated awards.

Awards will be presented across numerous categories, including Favorite Soul Food, Favorite Taco Spot, Favorite Chicken Spot, Favorite Brunch Spot, Favorite Mexican Spot, Favorite Fusion Spot, Favorite Upscale Restaurant, Favorite Food Influencer, and more.

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"The Southern Taste of Dallas Awards were created to do more than recognize outstanding restaurants—they were designed to celebrate the hardworking entrepreneurs behind them while creating opportunities for long-term success," said Brittany "Luscious" Criswell, founder and executive producer of the Southern Taste of Dallas Awards. "Our mission is to bring Black and Brown cultures together, one plate at a time, while honoring the people, passion and community that make Dallas one of the nation's great food destinations."

Previous honorees include Breakfast Brothers, Aunt Irene's Seafood, Williams Chicken, Kitchen + Kocktails, Slutty Vegan, Hip Hop Hibachi, Smokey John's BBQ, Wings World, and many others.

Community voting closes July 15, 2026. General admission and VIP tickets are now available.

For tickets, the complete list of nominees, sponsorship opportunities, and additional information, visit https://www.southerntasteofdallasawards.com.