The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection — Attraction in Dallas

EXCELLENT is my overall rating. The FOOD was Great, why? When flavor meets beauty the experience touches on all your senses, I like my senses touched, lol. The salmon tartare was omg excellent. The banana pudding was shut your face good!! Omg I could have had seconds but I don't work out enough, Lol. But.. while the gnocchi and rockfish were both very flavorful the rockfish was to salty and they used to much corn in both dishes. Also, I swear the rockfish said romanesco was apart of the dish (which I've been craving) and there was none on my plate. The SERVICE was Excellent, why? It was closing time, but Clayton was gracious and patient, he didn't rush us, he chatted and checked on us regularly. But.. no but's. The LOCATION is Excellent. Why? It's near the aa center it's nestled in a corner on a busy street, but you wouldn't know it once you get in the restaurant. The entryway is inviting the patio is outstanding and there us not a bad table in the house. But.. no but's. The ATMOSPHERE was Excellent, why? Despite it being at closing the restaurant still had a cool, cheerful vibe, music playing, servers smilling and still moving diligently throughout the restaurant. But.. the hostess was no where to be found so we had to get the attention of the bartender. The BATHROOM was Excellent, why? The restaurant location is in a museum so again my senses were touched as I ascended those beautiful stairs. But, it is upstairs so heel wearers consider this your notice to be careful. The DRINKS were Excellent! The little lies is my favorite. Would I go back ... oh yes, I would and have. Why yes? Because it's a visually stunning restaurant, they provide great food and excellent service. It is in an excellent location after an event at the aa center. It has an excellent atmosphere, excellent bathroom facilities, and excellent drinks! why wouldn't I go back...lol, I hope you go and...

A very interesting and atypical hidden gem of Dallas--and a great extension to those that may not realize the Crow Museum isn't the only place to have a very in-depth Japanese and Asian history exhibit--though specifically focusing on the Samurai armor (in addition to a few European helmets; which for those in "the know" the Japanese armor took on some European influences, which the exhibit demonstrates with one, but also you will find some European helmets in the library that are available to look through.)

And by atypical, I'm not just referring to the exhibit itself, which unless you visit the Saint Ann Restaurant will you likely even know this exists (I almost felt like I was expected to be asked the 'house password,' in which I would respond, "Fidelio" to someone wearing a tengu mask.) I parked in the parking garage adjacent to Mercat Bistro. When you get inside the 5th floor (or 6th?) doesn't require a reservation to park in, and when you arrive to ground will you notice some impressive full body armor and horse armor (with real taxidermy I might add) on display on the ground floor, with Mercat Bistro right behind it, as well as a service desk. When you step outside you will see that Saint Ann restaurant I was talking about, where when you enter an elevator awaits (or if you walk past the bar a staircase will take you up there,) and an entrance (and a false entrance that will sound the alarm if you try to pry it open, which I didn't) will let you walk through the second floor that is entirely dedicated to this exhibit.)

It's worth it (though the parking situation has me a bit confused, as I think I snuck past...

This museum is a hidden gem and located on the second floor of the Saint Ann Restaurant and Bar. To access the museum, you need to enter the restaurant and head up the glass staircase. Entry is free and there is a cute little gift shop.

The museum is small but boasts a remarkable private collection that has been made free to the public. It is unique, well curated and the largest of its kind outside of Japan. The exhibition features Japanese Samurai culture with exceptional artifacts from the 5th through the 19th century. The information attached to each item is informative, they have a variety of media presentations including films and audio explanations. There is seating throughout and a study at the end of the exhibit where you can sit in comfortable chairs, learn more through the biopic that’s playing or by reading through some of the volumes of beautiful books. You can even try your hand at origami and there are a few hands-on kids activities for the little ones if you need to keep them busy. I really appreciated the iron work and intricacy of the armor, and the horse display was something special.

The staff in the restaurant were welcoming and the staff in the museum were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. We were able to walk right in, but you can make a reservation if you want to ensure that you can depending on the day/time of the week. The exhibit is a like a secret treasure – a rare find that’s truly worth the visit and the fact that it’s free is incredible. Highly recommend, this is a do-not-miss stop if you’re...