Typically, when food and mystery come together, the images conjured may range between a murder mystery dinner with sub-par cuisine to that meatloaf surprise that shows up at the occasional workplace potluck. Fortunately the Greater Dallas Restaurant Association kept the elements of surprise and savor during their Mystery Dine Around Downtown Dallas event.

Guests arrived around 6 PM at the gorgeous Joule Hotel in Downtown Dallas where they escorted from the ground to an elevator that moved them to a picturesque terrace view of downtown Dallas. Upon exiting the elevator guests were greeted with signature cocktails like the herb infused prosecco, a citrusy blend of grapefruit, lemon, mint, house made almond syrup, Luxardo Aperitivo, Tito’s Vodka and prosecco. Meanwhile, appetizers ranged fromsharp smoked salmon perfriteroles, to interesting rye battered corn brat dogs, served with house mustard.

After an hour or so of mingling, bites and sips, the fun really began as inquisitive guests checked the backs of their name tags to discover exactly where they would be dining for the evening. Restaurant destinations included Wild Salsa, CBD Provisions, Dallas Fish Market, Americano and Café Momentum, all of which were in walking distance from the Joule. The excited crowd immersed back onto the elevator, group by group, chattily making their way to their select locations.

For myself, the evening led me to Café Momentum. Located just a couple of blocks away from the Joule, the restaurant had an open airy feel to it. Focusing on more of a communal and connected dining experience long, picnic style tables were used in the restaurant. I sat at the end of one of the tables and began getting to know a few of my fellow food lovers. Before long we were greeted with a mixed green salad seasoned with a light dressing, and glasses of white wine. After devouring the salad, I got a chance to really look around Café Momentum. One wall was covered in white plates, displaying messages of gratitude in black paint. Another wall, near the cash register offered motivational quotes. It was not long before seeing the inspiring restaurant décor, I’d learned that Café Momentum is not just a wonderful eatery, but an organization that focuses on helping transform the lives of young people who’ve spent time in juvenile. Here, they learn the various aspects of running a restaurant, from preparing meals, washing dishes and even working alongside celebrated chefs. They are also taught fundamental skills to lead a successful life, such as social awareness and refining social abilities.

Soon the main course was served. Large white plates of smoked fried chicken, mashed potatoes, purple cabbage and perfectly buttered biscuits were placed before us. I dove fork and knife into this inquisitive smoked fried chicken, and was immediately bombarded with happiness. The batter was crunchy, without being heavy and still seasoned. Diving deeper into the chicken, past the batter, the meat was tender, juicy, and smoky. It was almost like eating char grilled chicken and fried chicken at the same time, without losing the texture or flavor from either method of preparation. The potatoes were smooth and creamy, while the sautéed purple cabbage provided a light sweetness that helped balance the smoky, savory crunch.

Upon completing meals at their respective feasting locations, guests rendezvoused back to the Joule terrace. The fall breeze kissed the evening sky as everyone assembled for another round of cocktails and dessert. The chef prepared a few decadent after dinner delights, including a caramel cream verrine which many admitted was their favorite of the evening, a candied rhubarb bombe made with vanilla mouse and rum foam, and my personal choice favorite, an acerbic and zesty lemon tartlette, topped with lime meringue and blue berries.

As guests made their exit for the evening, with big grins and delighted stomachs it dawned on me, any mystery that begins with amazing cocktails and ends with more cocktails and a side of confections is definitely worth finding out. TXmB