Dallas' Italian restaurant scene keeps getting bigger, and now there's a dynamic player newly open in the Design District. Called The Charles Dallas, it's an Italian-inspired eatery starring a well known team: The chef is J Chastain, whose resume includes Stephan Pyles and the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Owner Chas Martin previously held high-flying positions as a manager for Nick and Sam's and F&B director for Hotel Zaza.

The restaurant is open for dinner Monday-Saturday at 1632 Market Center Blvd., with a wood-fired grill, fresh crudo, and house-made pasta. The Charles is aptly named: "Chas" is short for Charles. Martin is passionate about food and wine and Italy, a legendarily snappy dresser, and an all-around larger-than-life personality who presides over the front of the house.