Dallas’ New Virgin Hotel Brings in Star Local Chef to Run its Ambitious Restaurant

It was exciting news when the Virgin Hotels Dallas revealed its December 15 opening date a month ago. But what’s even more exciting is who was just announced to man the kitchen at the hotel’s restaurant.

The restaurant is called Commons Club and chef Matt McCallister will be running it.

Commons Club is the hotel’s flagship restaurant, bar and modern social club concept. McCallister’s latest restaurant, Homewood, has been a hit and he’ll be bringing along his locally sourced cuisine to the Club. The Kitchen’s menu will be “seasonally driven with French influence.”

McCallister will collaborate with executive chef Nick Walker, who most recently held the same title at CBD Provisions and Americano and is leading the hotel’s culinary team. The restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and feature an open kitchen with an exclusive communal chef’s table and wrap-around patio.

Designed by Joel Mozersky Design, Commons Club will be on the first floor of the new Virgin Hotel and have its own dedicated street entrance. The vibe will be playful, yet sophisticated. The goal is to be an all-day foodie destination with a mix of live entertainment and a place to have “entrepreneurial conversations,” according to a release.

Inside of The Kitchen, there will be an intimate dining area with wood walls, warm white oak tables and cozy upholstered leather booths. A center booth will be featured and the entire room can be sectioned off with a velvet curtain for extra privacy.

The bar will also be a highlight with oval brass and marble. Craft cocktails and a curated wine and Champagne selection will be offered at The Bar. And last, but not least, The Shag Room will feature a ’70s glam inspiration design with a large serpentine banquette, smoked mirrored walls and brass lighting.

It’s just another bit of excitement for the first Virgin Hotel in Texas, a partnership between Richard Branson and Dunhill Partners’ Bill Hutchinson.