Later this spring, a new restaurant and bar from Milkshake Concepts is set to open in Deep Ellum. Saaya will be located at 2511 Swiss Ave. in Dallas just next door to the nightclub, Citizen.
Saaya, which means shadow, shelter, or refuge in ancient Sanskrit, is the newest concept from the Dallas-based hospitality group. The nearly 5,400-square-foot design will feature an expansive patio, luxury furnishings, and lush landscaping. Private booths, intimate tables, and a large bar will offer guests a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of urban living.
The menu will feature mezze—small Mediterranean-style tapas—that will showcase the region’s savory flavors and aromatic spices. Dishes will include Lebanese Caesar Salad, Crispy Cauliflower, Hawayej spice and Beef Shawarma Bites, as well as Manakish, a Lebanese flatbread.
Saaya will also feature two signature cocktails. The 43 Shades of Gray includes Gray whale Gin Crème de violet, Licor 43, allspice, and lemon. The Pompeii Passion is made with Ancho Reyes, passion fruit, coconut, and lime. Saaya will offer private karaoke suites and traditional hookah.
“With both Citizen and Harper’s nearby, we felt a venue like Saaya—with its unique offerings—would be a welcome addition to the neighborhood,” said Asim Sheikh of Milkshake Concepts in a press release. “Saaya delivers that same energy but with the refined and relaxed approach of an oasis in the middle of downtown. There’s nothing quite like it in Dallas, and we can’t wait for our guests to indulge in our newest experience.”
Milkshake Concepts was founded in 2015 by Imran Sheikh, Asim Sheikh, and James Faller. The group operates eight brands including The Finch, Citizen, Dirty Bones, Vidorra, and Harper’s. The grand opening date for Saaya is unknown at this time.
