Encina

Encina sits in the former Bolsa space on W. Davis Street in Oak Cliff's Bishop Arts District, and for non-alcoholic drinkers it offers something more considered than the usual soda-or-nothing choice. The restaurant carries a dedicated set of zero-proof cocktails built on Ritual Zero Proof spirits, priced at $10, available at dinner and weekend brunch. The neighborhood itself draws a mix of regulars and destination diners, and the private lot makes it one of the easier parking situations in the area.

The three documented NA cocktails reflect the same seasonal, ingredient-forward thinking as the food menu. The Cactus Jill pairs Ritual Zero Proof Tequila with Giffard Aperitif, lime, sweet peppers, and dill—a savory-leaning riff on a margarita. The Pineapple Nojito combines Ritual Zero Proof Rum with fresh pineapple, mint, lime, pineapple gum syrup, and Topo Chico for a bright, effervescent option. The Kentucky-Less Buck uses Ritual Zero Proof Whiskey with strawberry jam, lemon, ginger beer, and All the Bitter Alcohol-Free Bitters—a well-structured take on the classic mule format. The beverage program is overseen by co-owner Corey McCombs, who built the cocktail menu to mirror chef and co-owner Matt Balke's ethos of fresh, seasonal ingredients with only four or five components per drink. Athletic Brewing's Upside Dawn non-alcoholic golden ale also appears on the beer list.

Encina earned Dallas Observer's Best Brunch recognition in 2025, and Texas Monthly has listed it as a notable Dallas restaurant. The dress code is casual, reservations are recommended especially for weekend brunch, and the restaurant accepts OpenTable bookings. It's a strong pick for non-drinkers joining a group dinner or brunch—the zero-proof options are priced and presented on par with the cocktail list, not tucked away as an afterthought. The patio and private dining room make it work for larger gatherings too.