The Zodiac
Restaurant · Downtown ·
Complimentary popovers, chicken consommé, and elegant American fare
Complimentary popovers, chicken consommé, and elegant American fare
"The elegant restaurant inside Neiman Marcus's downtown flagship, opened in April 1953 and designed by Eleanor LeMaire with conceptual input from Stanley Marcus, became a signature destination for lunch, afternoon tea and lavish holiday buffets that helped keep customers in the store. Over decades it underwent several makeovers, ultimately returning to blue hues and gold touches that evoked its original glamour, and earned a reputation for dishes and traditions like chicken consommé, strawberry popovers with strawberry butter, Stanley’s pot roast (often paired with mashed potatoes), beef Wellington, salmon, the famous Mandarin Orange Soufflé, and an indulgent holiday buffet and tea service. More than a menu, it was a cultural touchstone—synonymous with “ladies who lunch,” family traditions, celebratory moments and VIP treatment that gave visitors a glimpse of Dallas high society. The restaurant was nearly forced to close after a land-rights dispute led to an announced shutdown, prompting local efforts to resolve the issue; in late March 2025 the owner reversed course and committed to keeping the dining room open through at least the end of 2025." - Rachel Pinn
"This iconic restaurant was known for its chicken consommé and strawberry popovers and was a staple of fine dining in Dallas, particularly popular in the '50s, '60s, and '70s." - Courtney E. Smith
"The restaurant inside the original Neiman Marcus has been there since 1914 and has been serving upscale fare for 50 years. Its popovers are wildly popular, and diners can expect to find seasonal dishes on the menu, like a strawberry salad or salmon tacos. It’s the stop for ladies who lunch downtown." - Courtney E. Smith
"A 1950s department-store tearoom menu example that offered a 'bouquet of salads,' including items like pear filled with cream cheese and slivered almonds, chicken salad, and fresh shrimp salad—an elegant midcentury interpretation of the cold-salad plate." - Stephanie Ganz
"Located inside the flagship Neiman Marcus in Downtown, this has been a hot spot for lunching since 1953 when Stanley Marcus decided his customers needed an upscale place to eat while shopping. Its also known for its afternoon tea service and its’ complimentary demitasse of chicken broth to start every meal. Diners also rave about the mandarin orange souffle, a longtime favorite on the menu." - Eater Staff