When is the last time you visited Pappas Bros. Steakhouse? I stopped into the Dallas location of the Texas institution recently, and was reminded why it’s one of my absolute favorite places to dine in Dallas, and not just for a special occasion … but even to watch a Mavs game at the bar after work.

This may SEEM like a man’s paradise thanks to the thick-cut steaks and cigar and rare spirits collections, but it’s also mine.

This Texas institution with locations in Dallas and Houston is best known for its award-winning wine program and premium dry-aged steaks, but we went to revisit their famous holiday cocktail feature, the Christmas in Kentucky Manhattan. This beauty was created by GM Rick Turner and has returned year after year because, well, it’s delicious. Beautifully combining Buffalo Trace, Giffard Vanille, Cointreau, and St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, this cocktail warms you from the inside-out.

We also tried out the new chef’s newest appetizer offerings, and each was better than the last. My favorite was the Hudson Valley Foie Gras served with a fermented blueberry reduction. I’ll be returning soon for that alone.

The Dallas wine program boasts more than 3,900 selections and an inventory of 35,000+ bottles. If you’re not having at least one glass of wine at this institution, you’re doing it wrong.

They’re all spiffed up for the holidays right now, so stop in for a tummy-warming Christmas in Kentucky Manhattan and stay for a steak and a song!