Art & Tex-Mex Top CultureLab Founder Kevin Walker’s Best of Dallas List

by Abby Gregory on Oct 16, 2014 in (secret) local list

 

We love a list, and a (Secret) Local List is even better. Today, DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series continues with shopping, dining, and entertainment picks from a trendsetting entrepreneur.

Inspiring social evolution as the founder of CultureLab, Kevin Walker’s influential research has made him a sought-after creative strategist. The self-described “trendist” develops actionable intelligence to break down barriers created by age, race, and nationality. This high-concept data has helped close the generation gap for companies including Volkswagen, Nokia, and BET Networks.

 

 

Now, Walker (pictured at top) is turning statistics into lasting change with the September launch of his blog and micro-boutique, Afro Bohemian Snob. Designed to dispel “negative messages that dominate the media’s portrayal of black culture and the people of the African diaspora,” his innovative new concept curates equality by challenging stereotypes. “I want show the beauty, wit, sensuality, and acumen of diverse individuals,” explains Walker. “And most importantly, I want to unite free-thinkers who love culture, period.

Revealing the expertise that drives his successful cultural consultancy, the brand architect shares his latest local findings with DFW Style Daily today. Read on for the tastemakers and trendsetting establishments which have earned a coveted spot on Walker’s roster this season.

 

 

Foodie Favorite: Walker is a champion of Big D’s dining destinations. “I travel extensively, but I never miss an opportunity to tout Dallas’ culinary superiority, both at home and abroad,” boasts today’s expert. “I love my Tex-Mex, and when I’m in town, Pepe’s Y Mito’s is my go-to for nachos and chipotle enchiladas. They are the bomb!”

 

 

Go-To Boutique: “I keep my style eclectic and fluid. I’m suited-up for business meetings, but I trend toward a rock-and-roll aesthetic when off the clock,” explains Walker. “I like pieces by John Varvatos and James Perse, and locally, I prefer Indigo 1745 in the Bishop Arts District. Owner Denise Manoy carries really unique things, which is great, because I value individual style.”

 

 

Artistic Addiction: Often turning to Tumblr’s creative community for innovative design and décor, Walker discovered his artistic obsession at Conduit Gallery in the Dallas Design District. He details, “My favorite artist is Atlanta’s Fahamu Pecou. Nancy at Conduit frequently features her work, and the gallery has also been my portal to many locally-known, contemporary artists of note.”

 

 

Best Buys:  “Some of the most cherished pieces in my wardrobe have come from Couture Consignment on Oak Lawn Avenue,” Walker enthuses of the long-standing men’s boutique. “That shop has blessed me with some timeless ties, suits, jackets, and trousers.”

 

 

I Heart Dallas: Concluding with two favorite downtown hot spots, Absinthe Lounge and The Cedars Social, Walker labels South Lamar Dallas’ best “real, urban, cultural zone.” In addition, he turns to a top trio when entertaining friends and family. Says Walker, “I revel in exposing others to three local DJ’s that I believe deserve worldwide attention – Fifth Dimension, Big J, and JT Donaldson. They each deliver diversity and dynamic virtuosity that’s well beyond typical, radio-inspired hip hop.”

 

Kevin Walker headshot, credit Devon Scott Burch. Additional images via individual restaurants and retailers.