Roofing Contractor at IRE 2020 Dallas
Welcome to Roofing Contractor's coverage of the International Roofing Expo (IRE), the preeminent roofing construction and maintenance event. Roofing professionals gather to experience and learn the newest products, best practices and innovations essential to success.
The expansive show floor and extensive educational program provide the best opportunity to discover the latest trends, advances in technology and best practices for business growth. The IRE brings top suppliers, unique resources and unbeatable networking in the best educational conference in the business.
Be sure to check this page during the show! Roofing Contractor will be updating with IRE news, Show Dailies, and photo galleries.
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Community Service Day at IRE 2020
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IRE 2020 Show Floor
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RT3 Visits KPOST Dallas HQ
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Highlights from Last Year's IRE
Places to Eat in Dallas
Dallas is full of eclectic food and drink choices, from bustling sports bars and BBQ joints to fish markets and rooftop bars and lounges. Below is a list of spots to check out while at IRE 2020. List in alphabetical order.
3 Eleven Kitchen and Cocktails
A modern, vibrant space on the West End that operates on the philosophy of “Every ingredient has a purpose.” The American-style menu includes brunch, a la carte dishes, burgers and cocktails.
311 N Market St.
Black Ship Little Katana
Texas may be known for BBQ and Tex Mex, but those seeking different fare can find Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Singapore-inspired dishes at this restaurant located in the Omni Dallas Hotel. Its proprietary method for cooking its rice makes this a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
665 S Lamar St., #130
Corrientes 348 Argentinian Steakhouse
A mix of casual and sophistication, this steakhouse stands out from the others with an emphasis on South American cuisine. The beef-focused menu emphasizes family-style dining with everything made from scratch, including empanadas.
1807 Ross Ave.
Crossroads Diner
Claiming to have “hands-down” one of the “best breakfasts in town,” Crossroads Diner serves up everything from pancakes and mac and cheese to sticky buns and quiches along with a lunch menu.
17194 Preston Road
Dallas Fish Market
This award-winning seafood destination provides a contemporary atmosphere while serving up small and large plates, sushi, and poke bowls.
1501 Main St.
Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
With 18 locations around the country, this American-style steakhouse is doing it right with its prime steaks and seafood paired with award-winning wines.
2323 Olive St.
Frankie’s Downtown
A bi-level bar established in 2000 that has everything from big screen TVs and arcade games to pool tables and an extensive menu, including pub grub and tons of beers on tap.
1303 Main St.
Gallery Rooftop Lounge, Canvas Hotel
The ultra-modern Canvas Hotel houses the Gallery Rooftop Lounge, offering breathtaking views of Dallas and artwork along with refreshing drinks and small plates.
1325 South Lamar St.
Gemma
Founded by Napa Valley expats, this charming and relaxing restaurant has a California-style ambiance with mouth-watering dishes including iron steak, fried Texas quail and pork chops.
2323 N Henderson Ave.
Happiest Hour
Who can resist going for food and drinks at the largest patio bar and lounge in Dallas? With both a rooftop patio and outdoor garden games, this spot earns its “Happiest Hour” name.
2616 Olive St.
HG Sply Co.
Sporting a rustic-chic atmosphere, sample local craft beers and a full menu of American-style meals, including everything from burgers to brunch while enjoying patio and rooftop seating.
2008 Greenville Ave.
House of Blues Restaurant & Bar
The Dallas location of this rock-and-blues-themed chain serves up Southern dishes, including street tacos and tasty mojitos to wash them down. Come for the food, stay for the music.
2200 N Lamar St.
Lockhart Smokehouse
For a more Central Texas-style BBQ experience, head to Lockhart Smokehouse, where the counter-serve joint dishes out smoked meats on butcher paper alongside local beers.
400 W Davis St.
Nodding Donkey
With a spacious bar and a wide patio, there’s room for everyone at the Nodding Donkey. Craft beers alongside a chef-driven menu containing smoked wings and brisket tacos means there is something for everyone.
2900 Thomas Ave.
NOLA Brasserie
No need to travel to Louisiana for authentic New Orleans Cajun and Creole dishes. Just head to the Westin Dallas Downtown to enjoy lunch and dinner options with a full bar to temper those spices.
1201 Main St.
Nora Restaurant and Bar
An elegant bistro in the Bishop Arts District serving up kabobs, stews and other tasty Afghan-inspired meals. Don’t miss the chance to try vodkas infused with cardamom and green tea.
205 N Bishop Ave.
Oddfellows
Looking for something different? Head to the Bishop Arts District and grab a table at this bustling, rustic-hip coffeehouse and diner. Known for having stellar food and a superb coffee menu.
316 W 7th St.
Pecan Lodge
Located in the iconic Deep Ellum, Pecan Lodge offers a variety of Texas BBQ, including tender briskets, ribs and pulled pork paired with cold drinks.
2702 Main St.
The Rustic
Inspired by the state’s various flavors, The Rustic serves its guests homestyle meals prepared with farm fresh local ingredients. Listen to live music while enjoying Texas beers, wines and spirits.
3656 Howell St.
Savor Gastropub
Nestled in the Klyde Warren Park, Savor’s floor-to-ceiling windows and massive patios mean there’s plenty of sunny seating to enjoy draft wines, cocktails and dishes ranging from deviled eggs to salmon, fish and chips and roasted chicken.
2000 Woodall Rodgers Fwy
The Slow Bone
It’s only been around since 2013, but it’s a top contender for having the best BBQ in Dallas. The ribs are the go-to selection, but there are plenty of tasty menu options, including selections for vegetarians.
2234 Irving Blvd.
Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse
For those seeking a genuine BBQ experience, head to Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse in the West End, which has been serving up tender and juicy cuts since 1910.
302 N Market St.
Tacos Y Mas
Looking for cheap but authentic street tacos and Mexican fare? Then check out Tacos Y Mas, featuring nine different varieties of meat and seafood.
Multiple locations
Texas Spice
Found inside the Omni Dallas Hotel, this restaurant embraces the farm-to-market concept by using the freshest ingredients in its dishes. Its menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner and was named a Diners’ Choice Winner by OpenTable.com.
555 S Lamar St.
Tillman’s Roadhouse
Texas is known for doing things big, and the boisterous Tillman’s Roadhouse is no exception. Visitors will enjoy a fun atmosphere along with juicy steaks, comfort food and a cocktail bar.
324 W 7th St.
TNT Tacos & Tequila
Even if it isn’t Tuesday, Tacos and Tequila is always ready to serve a variety of delicious tacos any day of the week. Paired with tequila and a rooftop space, it’s sure to be a good time.
The Quadrangle, 2800 Routh St.
Waterproof – The Statler
Head to the 19th floor of the Statler hotel for a unique rooftop poolside bar that offers a panoramic view of downtown Dallas along with appetizing drinks and snacks.
Things To Do
Things to Do in Dallas
Dallas is a vibrant city full of historical monuments, stunning artwork and breathtaking parks. Below are just a few of the many sites to take in while at IRE 2020. Attractions listed in alphabetical order.
Located 10 miles south of the downtown area, the Bishop Arts District is home to more than 60 eateries, bars, shops, art galleries and more. Colorful street art decorates the unique neighborhood, and live music by local and national bands fill the air.
Bishop Avenue, Oak Cliff
Founded in 1903, this is one of the 10 largest art museums in the United States. Expect to see works by some of art history’s most famous figures, from Van Gogh and Monet to Pollock and Kline. View artifacts and works on a journey through 5,000 years of history and art. General admission is free.
1717 N Harwood St.
Located in the West End Historic District, the aquarium and zoo features a menagerie of creatures, from birds to fish and turtles. The upper floor is home to a reproduction of a rainforest while the lower level holds 10 main tanks full of sea life from around the world.
1801 N Griffin St.
Dealey Plaza
A 15-acre city park referred to as the “birthplace of Dallas.” The park is also infamous for being the location of the assassination of President John. F. Kennedy on Nov. 22, 1963. The cityscape and landmarks are worth the trip, and it’s hard not to go and reflect on the historical events that took place in the park, including an ‘X’ that marks the spot where JFK was shot.
West End District, Downtown Dallas
This 277-acre outdoor complex just outside of Downtown Dallas was once a fairground with roots going as far back as 1886. Architects transformed the space into an Art Deco design, with the main feature being the Texas Star, a 216-foot ferris wheel. The park is also home to the Dallas Music Hall if you need a dose of live entertainment.
3809 Grand Ave.
George W. Bush Presidential Library
Yes, a library doesn’t sound like a rip-roaring time, but the chance to visit a presidential library is worth the time. As a library dedicated to the president who was in office for the Sept. 11, 2001 attack, visitors can view materials from Ground Zero accompanied by a diary entry from Bush about the event. The library even features a replica of the Oval Office for a nice photo opp.
2943 SMU Boulevard
Giant Eyeball
Looking for a unique photo for your social media? Head to the downtown area, where you’ll encounter a 30-foot tall fiberglass sculpture of a human eyeball. The sculpture was created in 2007 and, according to the artist, they “just wanted to create something awesome.”
1601 Main St.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza
This monument, installed in 1970, pays tribute to the late John F. Kennedy. Meant to be a “place of quiet refuge,” the roofless monument is a cenotaph, or empty tomb, symbolizing the freedom of Kennedy’s spirit. The monument is located near the Sixth Floor Museum (see entry later on this list) that chronicles the events of that fateful day.
646 Main St.
Curious about the February 2020 cover of Roofing Contractor? Then check out the Klyde Warren Park, a greenspace built in the early 2010s above the Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Yes, a park above an underground freeway. The 5.2-acre park is a sight to behold, and almost always features food trucks and free daily activities, including ice skating and concerts.
2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy
It’s the running of the steers! Dallas’ wilder days are memorialized here in the form of 49 longhorn steer bronze sculptures and three riders on horseback, making it the largest bronze monument in the world. Don’t miss this cool park and photo opp.
1428 Young St.
Conspiracy theories are still abound in regards to the assassination of the 35th President of the United States. Find out all the facts and history about the event at the Sixth Floor Museum, which chronicles the life and assassination of John F. Kennedy. There is even the opportunity to stand at the same window where Lee Harvey Oswald fired his rifle.
411 Elm St.
As the name implies, this park was created to inspire gratitude and honor the traditions of thanksgiving. The highlight of the complex is a non-denominational Chapel of Thanksgiving, featuring a spiraling design adorned with beautiful stained glass to symbolize the upward reach of the human spirit. The complex also features a landscaped garden and a Hall of Thanksgiving exploring the American Thanksgiving tradition.
1627 Pacific Ave.
This 15-acre downtown restaurant and marketplace has something for just about everyone, including foods from around the world. Located on the western bank of the Trinity River, Trinity Groves has become a place where entrepreneurs can test out restaurant and shopping concepts, meaning a return trip may have an entirely different lineup.
3011 Gulden Ln.
Want an interesting way to get around Dallas without having to rely on Uber? Then hop aboard the trolley. The M-Line trolley runs from Downtown Dallas to West Village and Uptown. Riding the trolley is free, but donations are accepted and appreciated.
This iconic western wear store gives visitors a healthy dose of Texas heritage. Just visiting is worthwhile, but for unique souvenirs, the store delivers in the form of cowhide boots, cowboy hats and accessories like jewelry and bolo ties. The store is hard to miss thanks to a 20-foot longhorn and 10-foot silver and gold buckle displayed above the entrance.
311 N. Market St.