Willow Bend

 

In West Plano, Texas, Willow Bend is a planned community where most homes were built between 1979 and 2001. The first homes were built in Willow Bend Lakes, a secluded neighborhood surrounded by lakes and lush green spaces. New European-style townhomes are also being added. Several neighborhoods are scattered throughout with high-quality English Tudor or French country homes.

 

Willow Bend is one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The prestigious Gleneagles Country Club and White Rock Creek run through the middle of Willow Bend. Other neighborhood amenities include the Willow Bend Lakes, the Willow Bend Polo and Hunt Club, the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, and stocked ponds where residents can fish. Because the original grounds of the neighborhood were once polo fields, there’s a lingering equestrian theme. The initial sign and clubhouse still stand.

• Exclusive and upscale amenities 
• Plenty of green spaces, fountain-accented lakes, and waterfalls
• European-style architecture
• High-end dining and shopping
  
  

Willow Bend is a secluded residential neighborhood with a close-knit community. It’s relatively diverse, and people are warm and welcoming. The area is peaceful and quiet. You’ll find residents out on strolls along the water or at the parks.

You’ll find entertainment, retail shops, and upscale dining at Preston Towne Crossing and the open-air Preston Park Village. Try Meso Maya Comida y Copas, which serves authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients. Blue Goose Cantina is another lively spot for Tex-Mex fare and vegetarian dishes. Also, Tomoya Sushi and Hibachi serves sushi, ramen, and hibachi dishes.

 

Pie Tap has pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. For fine dining, Steve Fields Steakhouse serves prime cuts, fresh seafood, and vegan options with a wine list to pair. For a social night out, Katy Trail Ice House Outpost has local beers, barbecue, and a lively patio for outdoor seating.

 

Across Preston Road, there’s a Market Street and a Whole Foods Market for groceries. You’ll also find retail stores and national chain restaurants, including Corner Bakery. For pizza, Joe's Pizza Pasta and Subs at Windhaven Plaza serves New York-style pizzas and other Italian staples.

 

The Shops at Willow Bend feature Knife Steakhouse, one of the best steakhouses in Greater Dallas. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar has seasonal menus and a more casual atmosphere. Whistle Britches is quaintly decorated and highly rated for their chicken, waffles, and brunch fare.

 

Terra Mediterranean features authentic dishes in an upscale space perfect for special occasions and private events. Bosphorus Mediterranean Grill has combo plates and pita sandwiches for a quick bite. You’ll also find high-end department stores like Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.

Sitting right in the neighborhood, the Gleneagles Country Club boasts two 18-hole championship golf courses and state-of-the-art recreational facilities. Willow Bend residents help organize community events year-round, such as holiday parties, picnics, and the Fourth of July Parade led by Plano firefighters.

 

Plano also offers more than 3,000 acres of green space with nature trails for hiking and biking. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve has a playground and a covered pavilion that can cater private events. Steeplechase Park has basketball and volleyball courts.

 

Annual festivals include Suburbia Music Fest, Dickens in Historic Downtown, All-American 4th (an all-day festival with fireworks), and the Plano Balloon Festival, a weekend of games, food, and entertainment.

The Plano Independent School District serves Willow Bend. Students may attend:

 

• Richmond Hill Montessori, grades Pre-K–4
• Centennial Elementary School, grades K–5
• Huffman Elementary School, grades K–5
• Plano West Senior High, grades 9–12
• Shepton High School, grades 9–12