Introduction: Why This Dallas Food Event Matters in 2025
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is more than a food event—it’s a powerful celebration of culture, flavor, and community. This three-day festival highlights the talent of Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, and culinary businesses across the city. Visitors will enjoy everything from delicious soul food and seafood to creative vegan dishes, all while supporting local chefs and entrepreneurs.
Hosted at the Shops at RedBird and the Kessler Theater, the event is designed to bring people together through food, music, and shared experiences. Whether you’re a Dallas native or just visiting, this event offers something for everyone—great food, live music, and family-friendly fun. With a growing buzz around the 2025 edition, it promises to be one of the most exciting and meaningful Dallas food festivals of the year.
Overview of the Southern Taste of Dallas Awards Weekend
The Southern Taste of Dallas Awards Weekend is a special event that blends food, culture, and community. It’s not just a typical Dallas food festival—it’s a platform that honors excellence in the local food scene, especially among Black-owned eateries, ghost kitchens, and health-conscious vendors.
Taking place from July 16 to 18, 2025, the event is divided into three exciting days: a fun-filled Food Truck Park and Kids Zone, a Restaurant & Resource Expo for business growth and education, and a glamorous Awards Gala to recognize top culinary talent. Guests will enjoy amazing dishes, attend helpful workshops, and celebrate food heroes making a difference in Dallas.
This event is about more than food—it’s about connection, empowerment, and creating opportunities for local chefs and entrepreneurs. It’s quickly becoming one of the most anticipated cultural festivals in Dallas, drawing food lovers, families, and influencers from all over.
Key Dates and Locations
Mark your calendar—Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 takes place from Wednesday, July 16 to Friday, July 18. Each day offers something unique for food lovers, families, and the local community.
The main venue is the Shops at RedBird, a growing hub for events in South Dallas. This location will host the Food Truck Park, Kids Fun Zone, and the Restaurant & Resource Expo. It’s easily accessible, with plenty of space for families and food vendors.
The final night, the Southern Taste Awards Gala, will be held at the historic Kessler Theater, known for its charm and vibrant atmosphere. This upscale evening will include live music, award presentations, and a celebration of the top Black-owned restaurants in Dallas.
Whether you’re attending one day or all three, these locations offer the perfect mix of convenience, energy, and community spirit. Also explore about the event Retro Expo 2025 in Plano, TX
Day-by-Day Breakdown of the 3-Day Event
Day 1 – Food Truck Park & Kids Fun Zone (July 16)
The opening day kicks off at the Shops at RedBird with a lively Food Truck Park featuring over 20 Black-owned food trucks from across Texas. Expect everything from soul food and seafood to vegan treats and Southern classics. Families can enjoy the Kids Fun Zone, complete with bounce houses, games, and free meals for children. It’s a festive, picnic-style event designed to bring the Dallas community together.
Day 2 – Restaurant & Resource Expo (July 17)
This day is focused on education and business growth. Local culinary entrepreneurs, students, and job seekers can attend panels led by award-winning chefs, learn from business experts, and connect with culinary schools. The Expo also features wellness resources, career booths, and vendor showcases—all at the same RedBird location. Read about upcoming event Classic Game Fest 2025 in Austin
Day 3 – Gala Night and Award Show (July 18)
The event wraps up at the Kessler Theater with the Southern Taste Awards Gala. Dress to impress in all-black upscale attire as the community honors the best in categories like Dallas Favorite Soul Food, Vegan, and Seafood. Expect live performances, red carpet photos, and a celebration of food and culture.
Getting There in Style: Travel with DFW Premier Cars
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Award Categories and Past Winners
One of the highlights of the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is the Awards Gala, where the community celebrates top talent in the local food scene. Over 20 culinary creatives will be recognized for their impact, innovation, and flavor.
The award categories reflect the diversity of Dallas’s culinary culture. Some popular categories include:
- Dallas Favorite Soul Food
- Dallas Favorite Vegan
- Dallas Favorite Seafood
- Dallas Favorite Food Truck
- Dallas Favorite Upscale Restaurant
- Dallas Favorite Bakery
- Dallas Favorite Food Influencer
Looking back at 2024, winners like Slutty Vegan, Hip Hop Hibachi, and Mary’s Twisted Kitchen stood out for their creativity and connection to the community. These past winners helped set the bar high, and 2025 is expected to be even more exciting with new nominees and crowd favorites returning.
This awards show is more than a ceremony—it’s a celebration of the Black culinary excellence that shapes Dallas’s food culture. Read our blog about Rebel Scum Con 2025 – Star Wars Event in Frisco, TX
Featured Restaurants, Food Trucks & Culinary Creatives
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is packed with flavor, thanks to a powerful lineup of restaurants, food trucks, and emerging chefs who represent the best of Dallas’s Black-owned culinary scene.
Popular vendors like Hip Hop Hibachi, known for its bold street-style flavors, and Slutty Vegan, a national favorite, are expected to return this year. Local stars such as Mary’s Twisted Kitchen, Aunt Irene’s Seafood, and Breakfast Brothers are also on the radar for repeat appearances, serving everything from soul food to seafood and vegan fusion dishes.
Alongside returning favorites, the event gives the spotlight to up-and-coming culinary creatives—new chefs, ghost kitchens, and home-grown brands looking to make their mark. This is the place to discover hidden gems and support the next wave of Black food entrepreneurs in Dallas.
Whether you’re into burgers, brunch, or baked goods, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
VIP & General Admission Ticketing Guide
Attending the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is easy, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly day out or an upscale night to remember. There are multiple ways to join the celebration—with both general admission and VIP experiences available for each day of the event.
General Admission to the Food Truck Park and Restaurant & Resource Expo is free with RSVP, making it one of the most accessible Dallas food festivals this summer. You’ll still get to enjoy amazing vendors, activities for kids, and live music.
For those looking to elevate their experience, VIP tickets offer special perks like skip-the-line access, premium seating at the Awards Gala, access to exclusive lounges, and swag bags filled with local goodies.
Tickets range from free to $30 depending on the day and access level. You can reserve yours through the official event site or Eventbrite, but don’t wait—VIP wristbands tend to sell out fast.
How to Vote & Nominate in 2025
The Southern Taste of Dallas Awards gives the community a voice in celebrating local culinary excellence. Whether you’re a loyal customer or a first-time attendee, you can take part by voting for your favorite food spots or nominating a rising star in Dallas’s food scene.
Voting for the 2025 awards typically opens in early summer and is done online through the official event website. Categories include Dallas Favorite Soul Food, Vegan, Seafood, Food Truck, and more. Voters can choose from a curated list or submit their own picks to shine a light on hidden gems.
Want to nominate a chef, restaurant, or food influencer? Nominations are also open to the public. Simply fill out the form on the event page and explain why your nominee deserves recognition.
This process helps ensure the awards reflect the real voices and tastes of the Dallas community. Read about Guide to Arlington Comic Fest 2025
Educational and Professional Development Opportunities
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 isn’t just about food—it’s about future opportunities. Day 2 of the event features the Restaurant & Resource Expo, a dedicated space for aspiring chefs, culinary students, and food entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and grow.
Attendees can join live panel discussions led by award-winning chefs, successful restaurateurs, and business leaders. These sessions cover everything from starting a food truck to marketing strategies for small businesses.
The College Expo is another highlight. Local and national culinary schools will be on-site offering information on admissions, scholarships, and hospitality programs. For those looking to break into the industry, there will also be career tables, networking opportunities, and even on-the-spot hiring.
This part of the weekend is perfect for anyone ready to take their passion for food to the next level—and it’s a key reason why this is more than just a Dallas food event. It’s a launchpad.
Family-Friendly Features
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is designed for everyone—including families. Day 1’s Food Truck Park is more than a food lover’s paradise; it’s a space where parents and kids can enjoy a day of fun together.
The event offers a fully equipped Kids Fun Zone with bounce houses, carnival-style games, and plenty of space for children to play while parents explore the food trucks. To make it even better, kids can enjoy free meals provided by select vendors—making this one of the most affordable and family-friendly events in Dallas this summer.
There are shaded picnic areas, stroller-friendly paths, and safety staff on-site to ensure a stress-free experience for families. Whether you’re coming for a quick lunch or planning to stay all day, this event makes sure everyone—young and old—feels welcome.
It’s not just a food fest—it’s a place for families to connect, relax, and enjoy great food together.
Behind the Scenes: Organizers & Community Partnerships
At the heart of the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 are the passionate people who make it happen. The event was co-founded by Brittany “Luscious Barbie” Criswell and restaurateur Rickey Booker Sr., two Dallas locals committed to uplifting Black-owned culinary businesses and building stronger community ties.
Their mission is simple: to create a platform where food, culture, and opportunity intersect. With strong roots in the local scene—Booker also owns Breakfast Brothers, a past award winner—they bring both expertise and heart to the table.
The event is backed by a network of community partners, including small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions. Sponsors like U.S. Foods and Ecolab help provide valuable resources for chefs, students, and vendors during the Restaurant & Resource Expo.
This mix of leadership and partnership has transformed the event from a local gathering into a leading Dallas cultural celebration.
Local Economic and Cultural Impact
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is more than an event—it’s a powerful driver of growth and recognition for the city’s culinary and cultural communities. By focusing on Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, and local vendors, the event helps boost visibility and income for small businesses that are often underrepresented.
The three-day celebration brings in thousands of attendees, generating new revenue for vendors while also supporting nearby hotels, transportation services, and local shops around RedBird and Oak Cliff. For many chefs and entrepreneurs, this exposure can lead to lasting partnerships and loyal customers well beyond the weekend.
Culturally, the event honors the deep roots of Southern cuisine in Dallas and the role it plays in storytelling, identity, and tradition. It’s not just about great food—it’s about preserving and celebrating the flavors and voices that shape Dallas’s Black food culture.
Social Media and Influencer Engagement
The buzz around Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is fueled not just by food—but by the power of social media. From Instagram food bloggers to Dallas-based TikTok creators, influencers play a huge role in spreading the word and showcasing the event’s vibrant energy.
The official Instagram handle, @southerntasteofdallasawards, keeps fans updated with photos, giveaways, vendor highlights, and voting reminders. Popular Dallas food influencers like Dubbs Grubs and others often post behind-the-scenes content, vendor spotlights, and live coverage during the event.
Attendees are encouraged to use hashtags like #SouthernTasteDallas and #DallasFoodFestival2025 to share their experience online. From foodie snapshots to red carpet moments at the Awards Gala, this content helps boost visibility for participating Black-owned restaurants and connects people across the region.
If you’re a creator or aspiring influencer, this is one of the most shareable food events in Dallas—and a great opportunity to build your presence.
Sustainability and Community Wellness Efforts
While the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 is centered around food and culture, it’s also committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the well-being of the community. This year’s event places a growing focus on eco-friendly practices and wellness resources, reflecting Dallas’s broader goals for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Vendors are encouraged to use biodegradable packaging and reduce plastic waste. Recycling stations will be available throughout the Shops at RedBird venue to support clean-up efforts. The event organizers also partner with local sustainability groups to educate attendees on eco-conscious habits.
In addition, the Restaurant & Resource Expo includes wellness booths offering support for mental health, nutrition, and even domestic violence awareness—addressing critical needs within the Dallas food community. By combining cultural celebration with social responsibility, this event stands out as more than a food festival—it’s a true community initiative.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
If you’re planning to attend the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 for the first time, here are a few tips to help you make the most of the experience:
1. Arrive Early
Popular vendors at the Food Truck Park sell out fast. Get there early, especially if you’re hoping to try trending spots like Slutty Vegan or Hip Hop Hibachi.
2. Dress for the Day—and the Night
During the day, keep it casual and comfortable for walking, especially if you’re attending with kids. For the Awards Gala on Day 3, don’t forget the all-black upscale attire. Think dressy but elegant.
3. Bring Cash & Cards
While most vendors accept cards, having some cash can be useful, especially for smaller booths or tips.
4. Use Public Transit or Rideshare
Parking at the Shops at RedBird and Kessler Theater fills up quickly. Consider taking a rideshare to avoid traffic.
5. Follow Social Media for Updates
Stay in the loop by checking @southerntasteofdallasawards on Instagram for last-minute changes, giveaways, or surprise performances.
This Dallas food event is packed with activity, so come ready to eat, connect, and enjoy!
How to Get Involved: Volunteer, Exhibit, or Sponsor
Want to be part of the magic behind the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025? There are several ways to get involved—whether you’re a business owner, community leader, or just someone who loves giving back.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers help with everything from setting up booths to assisting at the Kids Fun Zone and guiding guests at the RedBird venue. It’s a fun way to contribute while experiencing one of the top Dallas cultural events from behind the scenes.
Exhibit Your Brand
Local chefs, caterers, Black-owned food vendors, and wellness brands can apply for a vendor booth at the Restaurant & Resource Expo. It’s a great chance to gain exposure, connect with customers, and join a respected lineup of culinary creatives.
Become a Sponsor
Sponsors receive premium brand placement, shoutouts across social media, and VIP access. Packages are available for businesses of all sizes—perfect for those looking to support Dallas’s vibrant food scene while growing their reach.
Final Thoughts: Why You Can’t Miss It in 2025
The Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 isn’t just another food event—it’s a full-on celebration of culture, creativity, and community. From the delicious variety of dishes offered by Black-owned restaurants and food trucks, to the inspiring awards gala and hands-on business expo, this weekend offers something special for everyone.
Whether you’re coming for the food, the music, the family fun, or the networking, the energy is unmatched. You’ll leave with a full stomach, new connections, and a deeper appreciation for the flavors and people that define Dallas’s culinary scene.
Events like this don’t just feed your appetite—they feed the soul. So bring your friends, your family, or just your love of great food, and be part of something that truly matters in 2025.
Dallas is ready. Are you?
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(FAQs) What Visitors Ask Most
1. Where is the Southern Taste of Dallas 2025 being held?
The event takes place at two main venues: The Shops at RedBird (Days 1 & 2) and the Kessler Theater (Day 3 Gala Night).
2. How much are tickets?
General admission is free for most activities with RSVP. VIP tickets for the Gala range from $20–$30 and include skip-the-line access, premium seating, and a swag bag.
3. What types of food will be available?
Expect a variety of cuisines from soul food, vegan dishes, seafood, and more—served by top Black-owned food trucks and restaurants.
4. Is the event family-friendly?
Yes! The Kids Fun Zone, free kids’ meals, and picnic areas make this one of the most family-friendly food events in Dallas.
5. How can I vote or nominate someone for an award?
Voting and nominations are open on the official website. You can nominate your favorite chefs, restaurants, or influencers until early July 2025.
