The Magic Time Machine
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Temporary Food Blogger | Visiting a Magical Eatery
StellaStella
90
We kept driving past this restaurant on the way to and from our hotel. After looking up reviews, it sounded like the food was pretty good and the description of the various themes and costumes the wait staff wears was unique and intriguing. We had never been to a restaurant like this before, so once it opened, we joined the online wait list by pressing the Wait List button on Google Maps. It's a good thing we did because the restaurant is super popular and a lot of people were waiting to be seated when we arrived at 5:30pm (30 min after they open on a weekday). The restaurant has theming around each booth. We sat in a booth that looked like it was themed to be a small European town (Italy perhaps). We were right next to a space capsule. There were also crayon box, Disney, Super Mario Bros., Pirates of the Caribbean, metal lunch box, George Washington, merry-go-round, and more themes throughout the restaurant. The wait staff is also dressed up (and in character) including Harley Quinn, Spider-Gwen, Poison Ivy, and possibly Uncle Fester (or it was simply a bald employee dressed in all black). We sat in Spider-Man's section and our waiter was excellent. He had Peter Parker's fast-talking easy-going personality and even though we were talking someone in a full face mask, he still felt expressive and definitely welcoming and helpful. Each entree comes with a side salad which is served out of a Salad Car (a car that houses a self-serve salad bar). We had some concerns with how sanitary this was in a post-COVID world especially since the salad bar is frequented by children and youth that might pay a bit less attention to hygiene. We waited until the main salad bowl was freshly replenished and got some salad. Everything tasted crisp and fresh. Bubbly Magic Time Machine Potion ($3) - We got a kid sized magic potion (in blue) and when it arrived, the waiter asked my daughter to chant some magic incantations (which my daughter was too shy to do, so I said "abracadabra") and make some magic sounds ("wooowooowooo") and then take the straw and stir it. There were pieces of dry ice on top of the ice, so the straw pushes that in and the liquid begins to fizz and bubble with "steam" rising from it. The potion itself is a fruit juice blend primarily tasting of pineapple juice. Fun! Adam's Rib ($38) plus 6 oz. lobster ($16) - I received a thick cut (16 oz) of prime rib served with jus and horseradish cream on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes. The lobster was steamed just right and had a sweet briny taste which paired well with the savory beef. The mashed potatoes were excellent with a strong garlic flavor that really enhanced the meal. Fresh Grilled Salmon ($21) - Nicely cooked salmon filet served with herb rice pilaf and fresh veggies. The salmon could have been cooked a little less, but it was by no means dry. A mango pico de gallo was served alongside it which gave it an additional layer of flavor (and kick) if desired, but the salmon itself was well seasoned (salt & black pepper). Fudge Cake ($8.50) - This chocolate cake was served warm with hot fudge and two scoops of vanilla ice cream. I prefer cake with a finer crumb, but the chocolate flavor was good in this coarse crumb cake, and it scratched a desire for cake that we've been having for the last few days. Because the place was gimmicky, we were pleasantly surprised at the food quality and thoroughly enjoyed our meal. Not only is this place fun, but the food is good too - it's a whole package. We will definitely return.
Michael ChuMichael Chu
30
The Dallas TX location is incredible! As you step through the doors of this restaurant, much like a Time Machine you immediately find yourself transported into a different world and time, unlike anything else. The sitting/waiting area decor is like a giant library of a different era. Almost instantly you see the unique experience that you are about to witness. The dining area consists of 12-15 themed dining areas/tables spread throughout this roomy restaurant. The decor is amazing! The wait staff are not your traditional waiters and waitresses as each one is dressed up in a different costume. And each server portrays their character throughout your table service. The energy of these amazing people are palpable and the customer service is top notch. Our server was dressed as the Mandalorian, Boba Fett, the bounty hunter. Others were dressed as The Queen Of Hearts, Raven, Captain Jack, and Harley Quinn just to name a few. Also, there was a roaming balloon character creator who made animals out of balloons. Photographers are also available to provide memorable photos for a nominal fee. Also, there was a caricature artist as well that you can pay 20$ to have a caricature drawn of you. Every child is given a special autograph book where they are encouraged to get their server characters to sign them. We started with appetizers and a bubbling "potion" beverage. The sausage stuffed mushrooms were incredibly tasty. My only complaint was the fried cheesesticks were very chewy. The Roadster salad bar which is included with every meal was quite good. The salmon was cooked perfectly and comes with rice, veggies, and a mango Pico de galla and a fancy sliced lemon. The Chicken Parm was very good, except the pasta needs more marinara as most of the marinara is on the chicken. The food portions were well worth the cost. Average menu entree cost ranges from 17-30$. You also get a mini bread loaf with cinnamon butter. I suggest coming here with an appetite, you won't leave hungry. All in all, this culinary gem of Dallas, TX is unique and incredible from the ambience to the great staff and the amazing food. The themed dining areas are a big hit and extremely unique. Magic Time Machine is not just a restaurant, it is a culinary experience! I give this place a perfect đŻ score!
CMP âCMP Studiosâ StudiosCMP âCMP Studiosâ Studios
00
Ridiculous, terrible, horrible, will never return. Smells moldy, no music which created awkward silence, food pre-plated, refrigerated and microwaved. Restrooms were disgusting, and worst of all was the service (see examples below). I had high hopes due to the reviews here saying how cool and fun this place was. I invited my friends and family who are all mature professionals and ministry leaders to celebrate my special needs sonâs 6th birthday. Our server âspider-manâ liked to tussle and not in a playful way but a very rude and disrespectful way. Example #1: my friend ordered a glass of wine and instead of handing it to her he kept yanking it back and forth. When she asked why he was giving her a hard time he responded âBECAUSE YOUâRE A CHILD AND IâM HAVING A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT IN 3 WEEKS!â (this friend is 31 years old fyi, which he knew bc he checked her ID! AndâŠhuh?) Example #2: I asked him to bring out the birthday cake I had brought, and when he brought it he decided to ask questions about what color the blue #6 cake was while holding it slanted. I asked him to hold it level to prevent it from sliding and he told me he knew what he was doing and proceeded to toss it around playfully. (And yes it slid, see pics below) Example #3: I ordered my son the chopped steak on the childrenâs menu which he informed me didnât actually come pre-chopped, which was weirdâŠbut fine. And when my bill came I was charged for an adult steak. When this was brought to his attention he responded saying âwell I brought you the adult steak and you already ate itâ to which I replied âno I actually did notâ and he argued further âso youâre trying to say you didnât eat any of this steak?â Example #4: He also screwed up on my friendâs bill and she very politely asked him to come over and talk to her whenever he got a chance to which he replied from across the room âgo ahead!â She again politely let him know there was no rush and he could come over whenever he got a free moment. Then he boldly replied âIâM NOT CROSSING OVER ALL THESE PEOPLE TO COME TALK TO YOU!â at which point I told him not to bother and to just send his manager. This same âSpider-Manâ was seen being very nice and fun to other families so, his behavior is inexcusable. I know people hate long reviews so Iâll leave it here, but OH THEREâS MORE! We kept the vibes positive for my baby but NEVER AGAIN!
K PK P
00
Update: March 2024 I had to come back and update this review. Last year it was great. This year horrible. Food- lobster was undercooked, iced tea was off, salad bar a mess, appetizers were very good. Server- we got Weird Barbie this time. Not even half of what spider Gwen did last year. Everything she did was robotic. She obviously did not want to be there. Bad day maybe? Idk but it was a 16th birthday party⊠pretend at least. She seemed impatient with us (we were a party of 11). We were seated in the Library. Horrible horrible area! We were crammed in there and if one wanted to leave everyone had to get up. It was run down, stuff pulled down off the walls, musty, just miserable area for that big a party. Doubt Iâll go again. Great experience first time, complete opposite second time. Went for a birthday party for a young girl who is obsessed with princesses! Was not expecting a lot with regards to the food because of the reviews. WOW was I surprised! First and foremost⊠the service was the best ever! Spider Gwen was off the charts wonderful! Tolerant of the kiddo, patient and kind. But holy crap the adult sarcasm and jokes were the best! It was for kids AND adults!! Second: the food was good! I didnât like the batter on the fired shrimp but the garlic potatoes were good and my steak was perfect! Our table got all four appetizers and they were all very good! Third: three downfalls causing a loss of a star lol Balloon guy was kinda creepy. Told odd jokes that fell flat and he repeated them like a robot. Not funny. The prices are a bit high. But understandably because of the entertainment. Overall I didnât mind. The photographer was fair. She took two pictures and although they were not great I bought them cause the second one they interchanged the faces and it was hilarious. $10 for each I bought both. I would go again for sure. Maybe an adult only crowd but I would most definitely ask for her again. Some of the other servers were a little rude when asked to take pictures with them but in their defense they are super busy! Tip to owner: allow reservations for under 25 people on the weekends. Have us pay a non refundable deposit! I would have liked a different area and waiting an hour and a half was insane. Iâm hooked! âșïž
Ca PCa P
10
The Magic Time Machine is a nostalgic gem that continues to charm visitors with its whimsical atmosphere and unique dining experience. This theme restaurant is a delightful blend of classic nostalgia and playful creativity, making it a perfect destination for families. One of the standout features of the Magic Time Machine is its staff, who don a variety of fun and elaborate costumes. From superheroes to fairy tale characters, the servers bring an extra layer of entertainment to the dining experience, engaging both children and adults alike. Their enthusiasm and friendly interactions add a magical touch to each visit. The dining areas themselves are a trip down memory lane, with each section themed to evoke different classic eras and beloved stories. Whether youâre seated in a medieval castle, a 1950s diner, or a fantasy forest, the dĂ©cor is meticulously detailed, creating a captivating environment that sparks the imagination. A unique highlight is the salad bar, creatively built into an old classic car frame. This quirky feature not only adds to the restaurant's charm but also serves as a fun talking point for diners. However, itâs worth noting that the building does show signs of its age. While this can add to the vintage charm for some, others might find it a bit outdated. Additionally, the menu has remained largely unchanged over the years. For long-time patrons, this consistency might be comforting and nostalgic, but new visitors might find the food offerings somewhat basic compared to modern culinary trends. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Magic Time Machine remains a beloved spot for family outings. Its enchanting atmosphere and lively staff make it a place where memories are made and revisited. If youâre looking for a dining experience that goes beyond just food, this whimsical restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
Rickie LindleyRickie Lindley
10
Nearby Attractions Of The Magic Time Machine
Addison Circle Park
Village on the Parkway
Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel
Dallas/Addison Marriott Quorum by the Galleria
AMC Village On The Parkway 9
Addison Walk
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dallas - Addison Galleria
PanIQ Escape Room Dallas
Michaels
Prestonwood Town Center

Addison Circle Park
4.7
(1.6K)Click for details

Village on the Parkway
4.4
(1.6K)Click for details

Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel
4.2
(1.2K)Click for details

Dallas/Addison Marriott Quorum by the Galleria
4.3
(1.1K)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of The Magic Time Machine
Ida Claire
Texas de Brazil - Addison
OAK'D BBQ
Kenny's Wood Fired Grill
Sidecar Social Addison
Kenny's Italian Kitchen
The Addison Improv
Chamberlain's Steak & Fish
Blue Mesa Grill
Vidorra

Ida Claire
4.5
(3.1K)Click for details

Texas de Brazil - Addison
4.5
(2.2K)Click for details

OAK'D BBQ
4.8
(1.7K)Click for details

Kenny's Wood Fired Grill
4.7
(1.7K)$$
Click for details
Basic Info
Address
5003 Belt Line Rd, Dallas, TX 75254
Map
Phone
(972) 980-1903
Call
Website
magictimemachine.com
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.2
(1.9K reviews)
Ratings & Description
Description
Theme restaurant with costumed staff serving an American menu, including kids' options.
attractions: Addison Circle Park, Village on the Parkway, Renaissance Dallas Addison Hotel, Dallas/Addison Marriott Quorum by the Galleria, AMC Village On The Parkway 9, Addison Walk, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dallas - Addison Galleria, PanIQ Escape Room Dallas, Michaels, Prestonwood Town Center, restaurants: Ida Claire, Texas de Brazil - Addison, OAK'D BBQ, Kenny's Wood Fired Grill, Sidecar Social Addison, Kenny's Italian Kitchen, The Addison Improv, Chamberlain's Steak & Fish, Blue Mesa Grill, Vidorra
