Pop the Cork: Cru Wine Bar 

There are certain things in life that should be a challenge. Decathlons. Law School. Quantum Physics. War and Peace.

But drinking wine with friends? Not a time to strain your brain. 
Meet Cru, the wine bar/restaurant that’s been peppering Dallas with locations in the West Village, Plano and Woodlands. At Cru Wine Bar, the idea is all about relishing a truly exceptional glass. In fact, the relaxing experience is as important to the owners as your wine’s vintage, grape or "flavor profile."

At Cru, you're sure to find a never-ending menu of top-notch, exceptional and even hard-to-find wines...but what you won't find is the attitude that accompanies many wine bars. Cru is for those who just love wine…plain and simple. So, get comfortable...you won't have to worry about long dissertations on a wine's heritage or the fussiness of a particular Sicilian grape, and no stuffy sommeliers to snicker at your tasting routine (or lack thereof). But, don't get me wrong, should you be inclined to "talk shop" and contemplate a vineyard's penchant for velvety finishes...they'll be more than happy to oblige.And since we all know that wine is best enjoyed with food, Cru has a menu of "Sharing Plates" including Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna and Cheese Fondue with Truffle Oil. Or try one of the chef specials, we recommend the "Sinful Experience of Italian Cheeses" and the Payaya entree.

Décor-wise, Cru's has outfitted their spaces with rich woods, intimate candle-lit tables, and a secluded private dining area. But the real draw here is their towering two-story wall of wine that makes this lounge feel more like an old English parlor than a Dallas wine bar and eatery. 

A word to the wise: Arrive early. As the word gets out, getting a good seat here will be all but impossible.