Did you know that Americans eat approximately 2.8 billion pounds of candy each year?

Nearly half is chocolate, and it takes approximately four hundred cacao beans to make one pound of this delicious treat.

If you would like to enjoy some chocolate delights, the best nearby shops include:

CocoAndre

Andrea Pedraza is known for bringing an Old World charm to her craft. After completing an apprenticeship in the late 1980s, she started combining traditional European techniques with modern flavors from Mexico. She spent years perfecting her unique style before opening CocoAndre in 2009, and today the shop produces some of the finest handcrafted chocolates in the world. Try the raspberry lavender chocolate, vegan pecan truffles, or pistachio coconut sea salt bark.

Dude, Sweet Chocolate

Dude, Sweet Chocolate began in a local dive bar where Redding May and Chef Katherine Clapner were regulars. Around the holidays, he asked her to create artisan chocolates that he could give to his clients as gifts. Katherine's creations were well received, and she started selling them at farmers markets before opening a brick and mortar location. The chocolates are packaged simply as she believes in focusing on the quality of the product, and the selection includes Hanoi fudge, Coco Puff marshmallows, and truly chocolate granola.

See's Candies

See's Candies was founded upon Mary See's principle of quality without compromise. The first location opened in Los Angeles in the early 1900s, and she took pride in using the finest and freshest ingredients. Today, some of the candies are still made using Mary's original recipes, and the chocolatiers never use preservatives. They strive to offer the best chocolates in Texas, and choices include pineapple truffles, milk pecan buds, and dark chocolate walnut square bars.

These are just a few of the delicious shops near our apartments in Dallas. If you are looking for a place to call home, please contact us to schedule a tour.

If you're looking to enjoy a light lunch on a hot day, stop by one of the following delis where you'll find an array of delicious sandwiches:

Cindi's N.Y. Delicatessen

Cindi's is a local favorite among those who enjoy the authentic flavors of New York. Owned by Anh Vo, it's one part pancake house and one part Southern mom and pop diner. The casual atmosphere also features a mural painted by famed Vietnamese artist Tri Minh Nguyen, and a friendly staff that offers attentive, friendly service. The menu features sandwiches such as deluxe turkey, chicken salad, and hot corned beef.

Jason's Deli

At Jason's Deli, it's all about the food. Family owned and operated, the deli is community focused and was one of the first restaurants to remove trans fat from its ingredients. The staff supports area schools and college clubs, and are happy to chat with everyone they serve. Jason's has been recognized by both Business Insider and National Restaurant News, and specialty sandwiches include Shelley's Deli Chick, Amy's Turkey-O, and The Papa Joe.

Firehouse Subs

Brothers Chris and Robin Sorensen grew up in a family that was both entrepreneurial and built on generations of police and fire service. Before establishing Firehouse, they tried everything from rock and roll to Christmas tree farming, and boast that their adventures led to them to open a deli. They believe in offering quality meals which is why the sandwiches are made with the best meats and toppings and served on toasted sub rolls made from a secret recipe. In 2017, Restaurant Business magazine called Firehouse the number one "Most Craveable Chain Sandwich," and options include sweet and spicy meatball, NY Steamer, and Virginia honey ham.

These are just a few of the delis near our apartments in Dallas. If you are looking for a place to call home, please contact us to arrange a tour of our luxurious community.

If you enjoy watching live productions, don't miss the shows offered by Dallas Summer Musicals.

It is the leading non-profit presenter of Broadway theater in North Texas, and it dates back to 1941 when it began as Opera Under the Stars.

The first season was co-produced by a group of area businessmen, and it ended without a profit as ticket prices ranged from thirty cents to just over one dollar.

Today, the organization is thriving, and upcoming summer performances include:

The Lion King (June 13 - July 7)

More than ninety million people across the globe have watched The Lion King, making it the world's number one musical. It's known as one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to take the stage, and The New York Times states "There is simply nothing else like it." The story is filled with hope and adventure, and features unforgettable songs such as "Can You Feel the Love Tonight."

Love Never Dies (July 24 - August 5)

Making its Dallas premiere, Love Never Dies is a tale full of passion and drama as it follows the Phantom on his final bid to win back the love of musical protegee, Christine Daae. Called "Beautiful and haunting" by the Daily Mail, songs include "Heaven by the Sea" and "Beneath a Moonless Sky."

School of Rock (August 15-26)

The School of Rock is a New York Times critic pick, and it keeps audiences laughing as an aspiring rock star working as a substitute teacher turns a class of straight-A students into a mind-blowing rock band. Sing along to tunes such as "Set You Free," "Edge of Seventeen," and "I Pledge Allegiance to the Band."

If you would like to call our apartment community in Dallas home, please contact our leasing agents to arrange a tour. We would love to show you our amenities firsthand.

The beautiful, historic State Thomas district is home to one of the most inviting coffee shops in Dallas. Crooked Tree Coffeehouse has a warm and cozy atmosphere that instantly makes guests feel right at home. They also serve a pretty mean cup of coffee!

Crooked Tree Coffeehouse

Located just minutes away from your apartment in Dallas, this charming coffee shop boasts an incredible menu and a unique atmosphere to match. Stopping at Crooked Tree feels like visiting an old friend's house. That's probably because it looks exactly like an old friend's house! From the quaint entrance on the front porch to the colorful rooms inside, Crooked Tree exudes warmth and hospitality.

The Atmosphere

Crooked Tree Coffeehouse is a delightful shop tucked away inside a whimsical little house in a beautiful historic neighborhood. Warm wood floors, high ceilings, and pretty, arched doorways highlight the historic charm of the building. An eclectic mix of furniture fills every room. Visiting with a large group of friends? Gather around a large dining room table and enjoy each other's company. Looking to relax and unwind? Grab a spot in an overstuffed armchair next to a window where you can feel the warm sunshine on your face.

The Food

At Crooked Tree, you can satisfy your cravings with a wide variety of drinks and snacks. Choose from batch-brewed or manually brewed coffee, with numerous flavors that rotate seasonally. Iced coffees, lattes, cappuccinos--you name it, it's on the menu. Not a coffee lover? No problem. Crooked Tree carries many other types of drinks, including loose leaf tea, Chai lattes, Italian sodas, hot chocolate, and fruit spritzer.

The menu is also full of tasty items to go along with your drinks. Fresh pastries are delivered daily from a local bakery--warm banana bread and flaky scones are just a couple of delightful baked goods you'll find behind the counter. Stop by any morning to grab a mouthwatering Tacodeli taco and on the weekends to enjoy a treat from Hypnotic Donuts.

This independent coffee house is a fantastic place to meet with friends or just take a few quiet moments for yourself. Please feel free to contact us to learn about other awesome eateries near your home in Dallas.

Are you looking for a new place to enjoy pasta, pizza, paninis, and other Italian favorites? Head to Mille Lire, an Italian eatery in Uptown Dallas. The contemporary vibe and classic cuisine blend together, making the restaurant a good choice for a special date or weekend dinner.

The Atmosphere

Mille Lire is the creation of Guiliano Matarese, an acclaimed chef whose food is rooted in the traditions of Italy. The name comes from the Lira, which was Italy's currency until the nation adopted the Euro. Small, round tables and plenty of greenery make you feel as though you're dining on an Italian patio. You can sit around the bar for a more casual dining experience, or choose a table in the corner for a quieter meal. Service is prompt and friendly; you'll feel like you're being welcomed home.

The Food

Start your meal off with some antipasti, like the beet salad with goat cheese or the sea scallops with gorgonzola cheese. If you're in the mood for something cheesy and casual, you can't go wrong with one of the pizzas. On a thin, crunchy Italian crust, the quattro formaggi pizza comes topped with four cheeses. There is also a great selection of classic pasta dishes, like fettuccine, rigatoni alla Norma, and campanelle. For a larger appetite, try the wild striped bass, served with roasted cauliflower and puttanesca sauce.

Mille Lire has an extensive wine list with many sold by the glass. They also have a long list of signature cocktails, like the Italiano Mule, a drink made with house-infused rosemary Kettle One, limoncello, and ginger root.

The Location

Mille Lire is located at 3102 Oak Lawn St. 116 in Dallas. They're currently open for lunch and dinner Tuesday - Friday and for dinner only on Saturday and Sunday. They do accept reservations.

Contact us if you're looking for a new home in the area. We love welcoming new residents at The Ashton.

If you can't get tickets to a Mavericks game, cheering on the team at a sports bar is the next best thing.

Some of the top ones near The Ashton include:

Press Box Grill

Known as a hidden gem, the Press Box Grill is a casual neighborhood bar and restaurant rolled into one. It's located in the historic Wilson Building which was built in 1904. Constructed in the Renaissance-style, the architect took inspiration from the Opera House of Paris, and it was the first eight-story building in Texas. Guests find the bar is complete with several flat screen televisions and a beer gallery that features thirty-six beers on tap. Those who are hungry can enjoy meals such as blackened chicken sandwiches, brisket burgers, and jalapeno pork chops.

Stan's Blue Note

Stan's is known as the best sports bar in Dallas, and it's the oldest continuously operating drinking establishment in the city. It was established in 1953 by Blues player E.E. Stanley, and the new owners have made improvements such as made-from-scratch meals and adding a back patio with outdoor televisions.

The Nodding Donkey

The Nodding Donkey calls Uptown home, and it is owned by Chef Jonathan Calabrese who takes pride in creating one of the best pub menus in the city. Guests can enjoy their time inside or on the large patio, and with twenty big screen televisions, they never miss a minute of the game. The menu includes Allen Street tacos, blue cheese burgers, and smoked turkey clubs, and they pair well with cocktails such as the Irish Mule and Uptown Skinny Spritzer.

These are just a few of the sports bars near our apartment community. If you are looking for a place to call home, please contact us to schedule a tour. We would love to show you our amenities firsthand.

You probably have fond memories of barbecue parties and grilling in your backyard with friends. True American food comes from the backyard, and now, you can enjoy your favorite dishes at a new restaurant called Backyard! Located in east Dallas, just a quick trip from The Ashton, this enticing restaurant is the perfect casual hangout for friends.

Favorite Menu Items

On the menu at Backyard, you'll find a little of everything from barbecue to salads. Start off with a shareable snack, like the waffle fry poutine, topped with pork belly, black pepper, gravy, and cheese curds. The corn on the cob, topped with Cajun aioli and queso fresco, is another good choice. For a lighter meal, dine on a salad like the grilled chicken chop salad. It's drizzled with a lovely champagne vinegar dressing. Or, you can enjoy the hearty smoked brisket sandwich, slathered in a soy sauce and brown sugar glaze.

Backyard also offers enticing American desserts. The Smores pie, made with a graham cracker crust and toasted marshmallows is a delicious choice.

Visiting the Backyard

Eating is only half the fun at Backyard. You also get to play games while you wait for your meal! They have a giant Jenga game, corn hole, and even some chess sets for the nerdy ones in your crew. One of the great things about the games area is that you can meet new friends as you play -- a real asset to those who are new to the Dallas area.

Backyard also offers private bookings for events. If you're looking for a fun place to celebrate a graduation or birthday party, they're it.

You'll find Backyard at 503 N. Good Latimer Expressway. Visit between 3 pm and 2 pm on weekdays or from 11 am - 2 am on Saturdays and Sundays. Contact us if you're looking for a new home nearby.

Whether you have lived in Dallas your entire life or you are a newbie to the city, you might already know it as a significant center for culture and arts. If you are thinking about moving to the heart of the city, knowing that great cultural and artistic opportunities await may be part of the allure. Looking for new cultural sites to explore in Dallas? This guide will tell you more.

Crow Collection of Asian Art

The Crow Collection offers a quiet and serene escape from the bustling city, allowing you to gaze at Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Southeast Asian artifacts and arts dating back centuries. Admission is always free to view the wide variety of exhibitions.

African American Museum

The Dallas African American Museum offers a magnificent selection of art, including one of the most extensive collections of folk art in the United States. In fact, this museum is the only of its kind in the Southwestern part of the country. Admission to this museum is free.

Dallas Museum of Art

Walking through the Dallas Arts District, you will find this museum hard to miss. The Dallas Museum of Art is home to more than 22,000 pieces of unique art from some of the world's most renowned artists. You may stumble across a Warhol, Van Gogh, Pollock, Monet, or O'Keeffe as you observe the enormous collection. Most exhibitions at the museum are free for the public.

Of course, there are many other wonderful museums in Dallas to visit, and you will have the opportunity to do so when you enjoy your new apartment community. Enjoy living in the middle of it all, all the while maintaining a relaxing and enjoyable home.

If you would like to enjoy an evening of live music, head to Poor David's Pub.

Called "Dallas' most beloved listening room" by Mario Tarradell of the Dallas Morning News, it has welcomed visitors since 1977.

Over the years, the pub has hosted artists such as Lyle Lovett, Robert Cray, and the Dixie Chicks.

Upcoming performers include:

Shake Russell (March 3)

Shake Russell is a Texas native who has entertained audiences for more than thirty years. He is best known for his unique Americana style of rock, and he takes inspiration from artists such as Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens. In 2004, he was named the "Entertainer of the Year" by the Texas Music Association, and many of his albums have reached the Billboard charts. Shake plays a variety of songs such as "What This Heart Held," "Safe with Me, and "Don't Mess This Up."

Ally Venable Band (March 9)

The Ally Venable Band has sparked excitement on the modern blues scene. Ally began signing in church at a young age, and when she picked up a guitar, she knew she had found her passion. Her bandmates play multiple instruments, and for the last three years, the group was named the "Blues Band of the Year" at the East Texas Music Awards.

Kathy Mattea (March 11)

Kathy Mattea is a country artist who is known for bringing folk and Celtic sounds to her music. She has had more than thirty songs reach the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and to keep her music fresh, she traveled to Scotland in the 1990s to study the links between country music and traditional Scottish folk. Her set list includes "Requiem for a Mountain," "Love at the Five & Dime," and "Walk the Way the Wind Blows."

Poor David's Pub is just one of the music venues near our apartments in Dallas. If you are considering calling our community home, please contact us.

Are you looking to enjoy a relaxing evening?

Then visit one of the city's movie theaters where you can watch a great show while munching on buttery popcorn:

Magnolia Theatre

Just seven minutes away, the Magnolia shows a wide variety of films including foreign, independent, and the latest Hollywood blockbusters. It's owned by Landmark Theatres, which is recognized for being a leader in the industry as it offers diverse movies in a sophisticated adult-oriented atmosphere. Guests also enjoy the theatre's comfortable seats and wide selection of gourmet concessions items.

Angelika Film Center

The Angelika Film Center is known as the city's most impressive and dynamic theaters. Nestled in the heart of Mockingbird Station, it opened in 2001 and is complete with stylish decor and eight screens that show independent and specialty films. After the movie, guests can sip an espresso or enjoy a treat at the on-site cafe.

Look Cinema

At Look Cinema, guests enjoy the finest luxury dine-in theater experience in the city. The huge screens and Dolby Atmos sound bring the newest movies to life, and power recliners make moviegoers feel as though they are in their own living room. Those 21 and over can enjoy the lofts area after 6:00 p.m., which features a full bar and sofas with ottomans.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Called the "Number One Theater in America" by Entertainment Weekly, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema offers drinks, dinner, and movies all under one roof. It all began with a single screen, and today, there are locations throughout the country. Advertisements are never shown before the film, and as guests watch the action, they can enjoy award-winning cuisine with a craft beer or glass of wine.

If you would like to live near these movie theaters and more, please contact us to tour our apartments in Dallas

As a pet owner, you want the very best for your dog or cat. Three Dog Bakery, a friendly shop in Uptown Dallas, offers the specialty treats your pet craves. They use all-natural ingredients, and all of their treats are baked fresh.

Three Dog Bakery is named after the store owner's original three dogs: Gracie, Sarah, and Dottie. They were the original taste testers for recipes that the bakery still uses today. This establishment started off in the owners' kitchen, but moved into its own stores in 1989, becoming the world's first bakery for dogs.

The bakery offers a huge variety of snacks and treats for dogs. There are meaty filet strips, Pupcakes (cupcake-shaped dog treats), and even small training treats. They carry gluten-free and grain-free varieties for dogs with sensitive stomachs, too.

If your dog has a birthday coming up, consider ordering them a celebration cake from Three Dogs Bakery. The cakes are customized with your dog's name and come in flavors like Bone, Carob, and Peanut Butter.

If you're more of a cat person than a dog person, Three Dog Bakery has something for you, too. Their Kitty Treats feature healthy ingredients like real chicken breast and Alaskan salmon, making them a healthy alternative to most big-brand treats.

Three Dog Bakery is located at 3699 McKinney Ave. in Uptown Dallas. They're open seven days a week, so stop by soon and pamper your dog or cat with a special treat. Contact us if you are looking for pet-friendly apartments nearby.

The Ashton is just nine minutes from the city's premier comedy destination.

We're talking about Hyena's Comedy Nightclub, and it hosts some of the funniest local and national comedians.

Upcoming performers include:

Carl LaBove (November 30 - December 2)

Carl LaBove has been performing for more than twenty years, and he's known as one of the most mesmerizing acts on today's comedy scene. He has many credits to his name including The Tonight Show, and he engages audiences with his smooth demeanor as he takes them through his many life experiences.

Tim Gaither (December 7-9)

Tim Gaither was one of the last comedians to appear on The Late Show with David Letterman. His comedy is often heard on XM Sirius Satellite Radio, and he has also been featured on Fox's Laughs television program. Tim is both silly and fun, and he brings a unique style to the stage with his improvisational theater background.

Johnny Beehner (December 14-16)

The club states that Johnny has everything that audiences want in a comedian as he's silly, likable, and fun. Like Tim, he has a background in improvisational theater, and he was one of Ricky Gervais' top five picks in the "Just Sayin'" stand-up contest.

Todd Larson (December 28-30)

Todd Larson began his stand-up career in his late 20s after enrolling in a comedy workshop. He took first place in the Funniest Person in South Texas competition, and his outspoken personality makes him a crowd favorite at venues across the country.

If you would like to call our apartments in Dallas home, please contact us to set up a tour.

Spanning ten acres in the Dallas Arts District is a destination called the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Nestled among world-class museums, it's known as an architectural gem with amazing productions.

The center opened in 2009 and presents an array of performances each year.

Upcoming events include:

Old Crow Medicine Show (November 14)

It was in 1966 when Bob Dylan went to Nashville and joined forces with several studio musicians to record Blonde on Blonde. Last year, the Old Crow Medicine Show performed the entire recording at the Country Music Hall of Fame, which lead to a worldwide tour. Songs include "Visions of Johanna," "Just Like a Woman," and "Lady of the Lowlands."

Gobsmacked (November 21 & 22)

Gobsmacked is an amazing vocal show that features the reigning world-champion beatboxer, Ball-Zee. It is coming to the center directly from sell-out seasons in Edinburgh, London, and Hong Kong, and tells stories through all forms of a cappella from traditional street corner harmonies to multi-track live looping.

The King and I (December 19-31)

Part of the Broadway series, this is a breathtaking production that Ben Brantley of The New York Times called "Something wonderful indeed. The King and I is a five-handkerchief masterpiece." It takes audiences on a journey back in time to 1860s Bangkok where a relationship formed between the King of Siam and a British schoolteacher whom he brought to Siam to teach his many wives and children.

If you're thinking about calling our apartments in Dallas home, please contact us to set up a tour.

Just eleven minutes from The Ashton is the largest and finest collection of 19th century pioneer and Victorian homes in the state.

We're talking about the Dallas Heritage Village, and it's twenty-acre grounds allows visitors to discover what life was like for Texans more than one hundred years ago.

The site was once the home of the city's first park as well as the first zoo, and in addition to twenty-one historic structures, it also offers interesting exhibits and fun programs.

Highlights include:

Farina Lecture Series (November 9)

Named for longtime employee Nancy Farina who passed away in 2012, this lecture series features books that focus on Texas authors or stories. For the next lecture, Myra Hargrave McIlvain will discuss her book Stein House. It's set in 1853 and tells the story Helga Heinrich and her four children who sail into the thriving Indianola seaport on the Texas coast to start their new life.

Neighborhoods We Called Home (through December 30)

"Neighborhoods We Called Home" is a fascinating exhibit that explores the city's neighborhoods that served as strong, supportive communities for Hispanic, African American, and Jewish Dallasites from the early 1900s and beyond. The display includes oral histories, clothing, and artistic renderings.

Frontier Blacksmithing

The two-Saturday blacksmithing class is where students learn the fundamental skills needed to make nails, a pair of tongs, and a high carbon steel punch. The class begins with building a coal fire and discovering the difference between mild, iron, and tool steel.

If you're thinking about calling our apartments in Dallas home, please contact us to schedule a tour.

Do you want to spend time outdoors while learning about majestic animals from across the globe?

Then head to the Dallas Zoo.

It's the oldest zoological park in the state as it dates back to 1888, and approximately two thousand animals call the ninety-seven-acre property home.

Exhibits and experiences include:

Lemur Lookout - Lemur Lookout is a one-of-a-kind habitat, and when it opened in 1996, it became one of the world's first exhibits to house multiple species of Madagascar primates together.

Cheetah Encounter - Step into the Cheetah Encounter to see one of the cutest friendships the zoo has to offer...a cheetah named Winspear and his best friend Armani, a black Labrador Retriever.

Koala Walkabout - Believe it or not, the Dallas Zoo is one of only ten such attractions in the United States that features a koala exhibit. The charming duo of Gummy and Tekin are the only koalas in the state, and they are often spotted snoozing in their eucalyptus tree.

Wonders of the Wild - Presented by Kimberly Clark, this twenty-minute show takes place in the Wonders of the Wild Amphitheater. It features an array of birds and mammals such as African crowned cranes, penguins, and beavers that know how to entertain the crowd.

Simmons Hippo Outpost - The 2.1-acre Simmons Outpost includes a viewing window where guests can get eye-to-nostril with these enormous animals. Hippos are the third largest land mammal, and throughout the exhibit, the zoo explains conservation efforts.

If you would like to live near the Dallas Zoo, please contact us to schedule a tour of our apartment community.

If you love trying new and exotic dishes, then you have to visit Hot Joy, a new Asian fusion restaurant in Uptown Dallas. Bringing together flavors and ingredients from Japanese, Korean, and Thai cultures, this restaurant offers bold and delicious dishes in a casual setting.

The menu offers a selection of steam buns, fried rice dishes, noodles, and small plates. Guests really love the pork belly steam buns, made with kimchi and green onions. The Thai basil fried rice is another classic selection, flavored with lemongrass and kefir limes. If you're in the mood for Thai food, try the shrimp pad Thai. The peanut sauce that bathes the noodles is smooth and creamy, and the herbs add just the right balance of flavor.

Thanks to their enticing cocktails, Hot Joy is a great place to visit for happy hour. Weekdays between 3 pm and 6 pm, they offer $2 cold sake, $5 frozen zombies, and several other specials. Their cocktail list features favorites like the Bourbon Grog and Guava Mule. The atmosphere inside is lively and eclectic, with bright paintings lining the walls and a Chinese dragon mounted to the ceiling.

Hot Joy has a patio, so you can enjoy the nice weather as you dine. Dogs are even permitted on the patio! They're open for lunch and dinner Monday - Friday and for dinner and late-night snacks and drinks Saturday and Sunday. Visit the restaurant at 3130 Lemmon Ave in Dallas, and contact us if you are looking for a new apartment in the area.

The neighborhood surrounding The Ashton is brimming with amazing cuisine from a variety of vibrant cultures. One of the most popular delicacies found nearby is sushi. If you’re craving fine cuts of fish, creative rolls, and upscale Japanese small plates, drop into one of these local sushi restaurants.

Uchi

Artful plates command the rotating menu at this upscale Japanese eatery. Offering up the freshest and finest fish, Uchi has a strict policy on sustainability and maintains a close relationship with local farmers while flying in fresh seafood from the Fukuoka and Tsukiji markets in Japan. Their main menu currently offers cold delicacies like Yokai Berry which consists of salmon, yuzu, blueberry, and seasonal greens as well as hot plates such as Buta Kunsei made with smoked pork rib, sour apricot, and turnip. Guests can also enjoy Uchi’s version of a happy hour called the Sake Social from 5:00-6:30

Yutaka Sushi Bistro

For yet another upscale Japanese dining experience, pay a visit to Yutaku Sushi Bistro. Chef Yutaka was born and raised in Tokyo and began working in restaurants in high school. With an innate eye for fine Japanese cuisine, Yutaka has carried his eatery into its title of being one of the best Japanese restaurants in the United States. Guests can choose from a myriad of creative rolls or opt for Omakase, a tasting of the rarest offerings of Chef Yutaka’s choosing.

Tei-An

It’s been said that Tei-An has blown away even the most serious Japanese food aficionados. Snagging a seat may be a challenge, but the wait is completely worth it as you’ll experience one-of-a-kind dishes like black sesame mousse, crab and sea urchin risotto, and of course mind blowing sushi.

Interested in living near world-class restaurants? Contact us today to schedule your tour at The Ashton.

Just fourteen minutes from The Ashton is a world-class, sixty-six-acre property that welcomes more than one million visitors every year.

We're talking about the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which is considered one of the top arboretums in the world.

Nestled along the shore of White Rock Lake, it opened in 1984 and features nineteen themed gardens. They include:

DeGolyer Gardens

The centerpiece of this beautifully landscaped area is the 21,000 square foot home of Mr. and Mrs. Everette DeGolyer. Listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Texas Register of Historic Places, the home is open daily for tours. As for the gardens, they were designed in 1940, and several of the original features remain. Highlights include the Sunken Garden, Magnolia Allee, and the Octagonal Fountain.

The Nancy Clements Seay Magnolia Glade

Surrounded by towering magnolias, the glade provides a tranquil space complete with a meandering waterway and beautiful lily pond. Throughout the year, it features different colors, though green and white are always prominent.

Lay Family Garden

Spanning 2.2 acres, the Lay Family Garden centers around native limestone walls with cascading waterfalls. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, and along the way, other things to see include colorful perennials, woody plants, and a koi pond.

Boswell Family Garden

Home to an array of rose varieties, the Boswell Family Garden offers a stunning vista of White Rock Lake. A stacked stone wall is the garden's backdrop, and hollies and a double helix hedge border the walkway that connects this garden to the McCasland Sunken Garden.

If you would like to live an easy drive from the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, please contact us. We would love to show you the amenities of our luxury apartment community firsthand.

Whether you want to play games, go for a jog, or eat a meal, head to Klyde Warren Park where you can do all of these things and more.

Spanning 5.2-acres, it connects the Uptown neighborhood with the Dallas Arts District and downtown.

Highlights include:

Petanque - This is a fun game that's the French version of bocce ball. The park provides the necessary equipment, and the Dallas Petanque Club hosts weekly games in the commons. These games are a great way for beginners to learn how to play.

Fitness Classes - The park offers an array of free fitness classes each week, so lace up your tennis shoes and get in a good workout. According to the park's website, research suggests that shared public space encourages healthy lifestyles, and classes include Zumba, yoga, tai chi, and ballroom dancing.

Dallas Morning News Reading & Game Room - Borrow a book from the lending library and relax in the shade as you become engrossed in the story. Visitors can also challenge an opponent to board games such as checkers and chess.

Music Thursdays - Every spring through fall, visitors can find a spot on the lawn to watch as local musicians and DJ's entertain the crowd. Food trucks are on site for this event to serve delicious meals and decadent desserts.

Savor - Run by Executive Chef John Coleman, Savor is the park's main restaurant. The chef driven menu is made from the freshest of ingredients, and the dishes are full of flavor. Chef Coleman believes that food is social which is why he strives to provide excellent meals that draw people together in a scenic setting.

Klyde Warren Park is just one of the places in Dallas that you can enjoy when you call The Ashton home. Please contact us to schedule a tour where you can see our amenities firsthand.

The Uptown neighborhood offers a vibrant atmosphere and several delicious restaurants.

Those you don't want to miss are:

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille

Perry's has welcomed guests since 2010 and features five private dining rooms and a wine wall complete with more than five thousand bottles. It also offers Perry's Bar 79 where guests can listen to some of the best piano players in the country six nights a week. The chefs create an array of meals using fresh ingredients, and choices include filet mignon, double-cut lamb chops, and pecan-crusted Gulf red snapper.

Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House

Nestled on the corner of Olive Street and McKinney Avenue, Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House was recently recognized by Zagat as one of the sexiest restaurants in the United States. It features rich woods, tall, sweeping curves, and red leather accents, and its vision is to embody the tradition of the classic American steakhouse with impeccable chef-driven cuisine, an extensive award-winning wine list, and unparalleled hospitality. The chefs create all menu offerings using the freshest of ingredients, and choices include Bay of Fundy salmon, broiled lobster tail, and pan-roasted natural chicken.

Texas de Brazil

This restaurant's story began in Porto Alegre, Brazil when one of the founders was living the cattle ranchers life and feasting in the region's traditional rodizio style. He envisioned bringing this culture to the United States, and after years of dreaming, the first location opened in Texas. It offers a modern atmosphere with bright walls and tables covered with white cloths, and the servers provide friendly, attentive service. The menu includes filet mignon, Brazilian sausage, and braised beef ribs.

If you would like to call our apartments in Dallas home, please contact us to schedule a tour. We would love to show you our amenities firsthand.

The next time you're in the mood to get your heart pumping, go for a run on one of these scenic routes in Dallas. Whether you want to run along busy streets or take a quick lap around the lake, these well-worn paths are perfect for getting a little exercise in.

1) Bachman Lake Trail

Measuring roughly 8 feet wide and 3.5 miles long, this trail is perfect for running side by side with a friend. Run around the perimeter of Bachman lake and enjoy the scenic sights during a leisurely jog. The trail gets packed on the weekends, so if you’re working on a personal goal or racing against the clock, plan your workout during the week.

2) Katy Trail

This 3.5 trail starts at SMU’s north end and finishes at the American Airlines Center in the south. Whether you prefer to run on a hard surface or a softer surface, there are two options for runners. A concrete tail or soft path is available for running or walking.

3) Marion Sansom Park

Considered to be a great spot for intermediate runners, this trail offers several loops in addition to elevation gains. Along with the lush scenery, there is also a waterfall along the route. The trail is dog-friendly but be sure to bring your own water, as there are no fountains on the trail.

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Looking for a great place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night out with friends near The Ashton? Stop by Iron Catcus, the Mexican grill and margarita bar located in the heart of Downtown Dallas. The restaurant is roughly 14,000 square foot with an open air patio, boasting gorgeous views of Downtown.

Feast on a combination of Mexican specialties, such as the Pollo Verde, Chipotle Pork Chop, or Crab Nachos. The Chefs at Iron Cactus are great at creating mouthwatering vegetable combinations, such as a mix of corn, tomatoes, squash, avocados and tomatillos. Also, don’t forget to grab a tortilla or two! The tortillas are made fresh and served hot every day.

Choose one of the many tequilas to sip on or have mixed into a creative cocktail combination. There is also a great happy hour from 3pm to 6pm, Monday through Friday. The specials include $5.00 house wines, $3.00 domestic beers, and $3.00 off all appetizers.

If you’re planning a party or celebrating a special occasion, you can book a large group or party online or opt for In-House/Off-Site Catering services.

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