AUSTIN NORTH Why The Bishop Arts District Feels All Too Familiar BY DANIEL R A MIREZ PHOTOS BY SE AN KR AY
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n the friendly battle of cultures that stretches from near the Oklahoma border to Travis County, Dallas has offered more than a few salvos over the past few years. Certainly responsible for the influx of the retail outlets and posh dining that peppers the Domain and other north Austin haunts, the influence of the Metroplex is abundantly clear, sparking more than a few chides of “Don’t Dallas My Austin.” Bringing with it a more formal dress code and a penchant for rhinestones, the fit isn’t a natural one, but the rivalry never gets too heated, as the neighbors to the north are siblings more than enemies. It seems odd, however, that Dallas seems to be the only entity sending the cultural volley. Austin as a whole has been focusing on its rampant growth and thus has not sent much of a response up I-35. However, in South Dallas near Oak Cliff, a traditionally overlooked area of Tarrant County that is passed through en route to Downtown, Plano and all points polished and shiny, there are a few blocks whose character is all too familiar to Austin residents. In the Bishop Arts District, a number of artists, chefs and proprietors have begun a subtle overhaul of the area—in the process creating a counterculture to Dallas’ glitter. Complete with shops, restaurants and bars that could easily have been transplanted wholesale from distinctly Austin areas, this section of Dallas is growing rapidly and not only integrates well with the people who live south of the Trinity River, but in maintaining some of Dallas’ ethos,
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blends well with the natives. If you have plans to venture northward, either for a weekend trip that stays within the friendly confines of Texas or for business interests that require the DFW area, you could do worse than to spend a few days, hours or adventures in the Bishop Arts District. To make the most of your visit, Austin Lifestyle Magazine combed the scene and came back with the Austinite’s guide to FAR North Austin. The shopping offered in Bishop Arts is as eclectic as many of the offerings along South Congress. Independent boutiques line the street and remind one of a small town’s main street, lined with trees. The feel of the area could easily have been cribbed from a number of areas, at once evoking a “village” vibe, at other times reminding one of brownstones and stoops. Step into an antique store such as M’Antiques, which is geared toward masculine collectibles, and you’re certain to find an old sign or a vintage piece of hardware for Father’s Day, a husband’s birthday or some other distinctly manly occasion. Or, you can peruse the living offerings at Dirt, where they specialize in all things beautiful and organic. Part nursery, part florist, Dirt is an ideal place for your inner environmentalist to get lost within. For those who crave more traditional retail therapy, the area proudly offers the outlets one would expect, from handmade clothing to cutting-edge design. Catering to both genders, Epiphany splits itself across North Bishop Avenue, insuring that no one party will have