Today we’d like to introduce you to Dallas Hale.
Dallas, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
After serving in the military for five years, I started bartending and learning everything I could about the hospitality industry. I knew I eventually wanted to own a bar/restaurant but let me tell you, working and owning are two very different stories. Just when I thought I knew everything there was to know, I went on my own and let’s just say, things didn’t go as well as I had hoped. I quickly learned that once you own your own place, you are continuously learning on a daily basis and I was lucky enough to find a mentor who helped me for 11 years. He taught me how to run a successful business and now, I have five concepts under my belt, two more in the works and a ton of franchise agreements on the table.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Smooth road??? Is there such a thing in the restaurant business, LOL?? I believe that there is always room for improvement and it’s a constant battle to ensure that the vision you have for your company is properly reiterated and executed by every single person on your team. I am consistently working to ensure that every guest has a memorable experience and wants to keep coming back. As I expand to additional locations, it has become more and more imperative that the food and overall guest experience is consistent. Consistency is key in the hospitality industry and can either make or break you.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am the President and CEO of Crafted Bar Concepts which includes Shell Shack, Sushi Marquee and Back 9. Shell Shack first opened its Dallas location in 2013 and has expanded to Plano, Arlington, Mesquite and soon to open in Fort Worth and Denton. We are a popular seafood spot and specialize in our “Boil” which includes the freshest crab, shrimp and crawfish, plus potatoes, corn and sausage, all seasoned and spiced to the diner’s content. It’s served in a giant bag for spilling out onto the table and digging in with your hands, making it one of the most fun and interactive dining experiences.
Sushi Marquee recently opened at The Star in Frisco and is a fun-loving Japanese inspired concept that combines great food and inventive cocktails in a lively environment. We have a vertical tile display above the sushi bar with screens that feature film clips and classic throwbacks to 80s and 90s pop culture. It’s most certainly a unique take on your “typical” sushi restaurant…a place you want to eat at and then stay and play.
Back 9 is located in Addison and is a true local sports bar. A place you can come and hang out with friends and just sit back, relax and watch a game or two.
Crafted Bar Concepts is a company I am proud to be a part of…the team I have behind me is dedicated, smart and truly one-of-a-kind. I would not be where I am today without each and every one of them.
Back 9 is first sports bar…local community
No shakertins
My shell shack and sushi marquee concepts are expanding and the need for more seafood and sushi marquee. Exploding, unique. Employee-driven, fun atmosphere, loyal guests which is a huge part
What were you like growing up?
I was an athlete, gymnast and the guy who always wanted to have fun. I knew I had to put myself in a position in life that would allow me to always smile which is why I got into the hospitality industry, worked my way up to a general manager position at a restaurant, started to learn the business and haven’t stopped since.
I create concepts that allow people to leave their worries at home and escape to a happier place. My passion for life has transpired to watching people enjoy good food and create lasting memories.
Contact Info:
- Address: Shell Shack – 2916 McKinney Avenue in Dallas
Shell Shack – 1855 Dallas Pkwy in Plano
Shell Shack – 770 Road to Six Flags St E in Arlingon
Shell Shack – 1335 N Peachtree Rd in Mesquite
Sushi Marquee – 3625 The Star Blvd in Frisco
Back 9 – 4060 Belt Line Rd in Addison - Website: www.shellshack.com; www.sushimarquee.com; www.back9addison.com
- Phone: Shell Shack – 844-588-2722; Sushi Marquee – 972-833-1608; Back9 – 214-272-7028
- Instagram: shellshack.dfw; sushimarquee
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShellShackUptown/; https://www.facebook.com/shellshackplano/; https://www.facebook.com/ShellShackMesquite/; https://www.facebook.com/SushiMarquee/; https://www.facebook.com/TheBack9Addison/
Image Credit:
Sushi and drink photos by The VIP Photo Guy
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
