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68 S teps from the Highland Park entrance to the Katy Trail, a posh address at the intersection of Knox and Travis streets sat promisingly vacant. Diners who frequent neighboring Lombardi eateries Toulouse and Taverna and, down the street, Le Bilboquet and Grange Hall, watched the empty corner location that, for decades, had been … well, a Chili's. As potted boxwoods and bistro tables moved in, the navy awnings went up, and so did the hopes of the fine-dining crowd. Once it was divined that the property was in the hands of neighborhood veteran Stephen Corseau — owner of the beloved Bilboquet — expectations went through the roof. And, with good reason. The resulting brasserie, Up On Knox, has become the answer to casual neighborhood dining prayers: a place to meet for an espresso and classic French breakfast or to linger over a champagne cocktail at the bar. Call it Dallas' answer to Balthazar. On a Tuesday, long after lunch hours, we found patrons still chatting comfortably with the staff, already familiar in a place that's been open less than a month. A gentleman was lost in his book at a cocktail table by the front windows, only stirring once when a gust of crisp air marked the arrival of a friend, stopping by to say hello. In the evenings, Up On Knox has become the newest see-and-be-seen dining room where well dressed social ladies and gents flock. The black lacquered and brass interior calls to mind a smart La Cornue range, and the kitchen is presided over by husband-and-wife duo Kelly and Melody Bishop. The chefs have created seasonal menus for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as an oyster bar and selection of caviar. Appetizers include salmon rillettes (shallots, lemon, crème fraiche, and herbs) and a classic French Brandade (salt cod served with potato, spicy blistered tomatoes, mint, and toasted baguette). Entrée standouts such as Arroz Negro (Valencia rice, squid ink, sofrito, squid, clams, roasted tomato, and saffron aioli), and the extensive wine list will have you lingering far longer than you planned. Up On Knox, 3230 Knox St., 469.250.4007, uponknox.com. KNOX, KNOX WE'RE ALL THERE BY LISA COLLINS SHADDOCK. PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS PLAVIDAL. The seductive interiors of Up On Knox