The Free Man

Deep Ellum has had its share of Cajun- or Creole-inspired restaurants over the years. But The Free Man, opened in the summer of 2011 by John Jay Myers, has a formula that might make the bar and restaurant a Dallas mainstay. The dinner service, which features traditional Louisiana dishes like jambalaya and gumbo, is accompanied with performances from some of the best local jazz acts. And after the kitchen closes, the corner stage houses popular local rock bands. The changeover each night showcases the place's versatility. The green and red painted walls and long wooden bar are just colorful enough to match the Cajun theme, and just dingy enough to host the rock crowd.