Plano’s Legacy Corridor now boasts two fresh dining options at The Clara Hotel, the former NYLO Hotel that recently completed a major makeover. While the hotel offers 176 updated guest rooms, the new food‑and‑drink venues—Field & Vine and August—are designed to serve the broader community.
Field & Vine: A Chef‑Inspired Menu
Chef Daniel Armand leads Field & Vine, drawing on a career that spans Haiti, France, New York, and Texas. Born in Haiti and raised in a bustling French household of nine sisters, Armand moved to the United States at age 20, attended culinary school in New York, and worked at notable establishments such as The Galley on the Beach in Nantucket, Nick & Toni’s in the Hamptons, and Henry Street Ale House in Brooklyn Heights. He later oversaw large‑scale operations at the Hilton Anatole before joining The Clara Hotel.
Armand blends French technique with Haitian influences, Texas ingredients, and seasonal produce. An on‑site herb garden supplies fresh basil, sage, rosemary, and thyme for dishes, syrups, and cocktail garnishes, tying the menu to the property itself.
Signature dishes include a slow‑braised short rib served with creamy mashed potatoes—ideal for a date night or relaxed dinner—and a wild mushroom and truffle risotto that elevates a simple evening into a special occasion. Armand says the menu is meant to create memorable experiences around the table, welcoming guests for breakfast, dinner, or casual gatherings.
August: An Evening Cocktail Lounge
When the lights dim, August transforms the hotel’s atmosphere into an intimate lounge with deep colors, warm wood, leather seating, and layered lighting. The concept encourages guests to arrive for a cocktail, share small plates, and stay as long as they wish, without the pressure of a full‑service dinner reservation.
Highlights from the drink menu include the August Bloom, a bright, floral mix of McQueen and Violet Fog ultra‑violet gin, strawberry‑lime syrup, tonic, and dried hibiscus, and The Velvet Hour, a richer cocktail featuring Deacon Scotch, Angostura bitters, chocolate bitters, and strawberry syrup. Each drink offers a distinct personality, whether patrons prefer something crisp and bubbly or deep and complex.
Why Plano Residents Should Visit
Field & Vine and August are positioned to stand on their own as local dining and social destinations, not merely hotel amenities. They provide two distinct experiences: a chef‑driven meal rooted in personal history and seasonal ingredients, and a relaxed lounge for cocktails and conversation. No overnight stay is required, making them convenient options for Plano families, couples, and friends looking for quality food and drink close to home.
Reservations are recommended for Field & Vine, while August welcomes walk‑ins for a casual evening. Both venues reflect the growing culinary scene in Plano’s Legacy Corridor and add valuable choices for residents seeking new places to dine and unwind.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
