Kitchen Confidential, 10660 Strait Ln. $17,500,000

Built by restaurateur Phil Romano and his wife in 2001, this is one of the more unusual homes in Dallas. The house is an impressive 14,748-plus square feet situated on 4.7 gated acres, complete with waterfalls, fountains, private lake, jogging trail, tennis court, pool, spa, and manicured grounds worthy of a five-star resort. Actually, better than a five-star resort! Living space includes eight bedrooms, seven full- and four half-baths, exquisite formals, a 6,000-bottle temperature-controlled wine cellar, sunroom, media room, gym, and project room.

And let’s not forget the restaurant-style kitchen big enough to capture any chef’s heart. Take the stairs or elevator to the master suite, complete with separate great room, adjacent office, and two-story closet. Outside features include a covered veranda, poolside loggia with sunroom, and pavilion with fireplace and kitchen. Doris Jacobs for Allie Beth Allman Associates. 214-521-7355.