Haywire – 3.9 Stars
Devouring Denton: The Foodies Takeover
Getting out of town doesn’t always mean hoping on a plane. Sometimes you just need a getaway that feels far away without the matching price tag. So grab a few friends and make your way to a little town called Denton. Primarily known for cheap shots and college kids sporting Mean Green attire, one could easily dismiss Denton as being a party town for students. And while that’s true, this place still has more to offer than just Jell-O shots and freshman angst. To that avail, a few foodie pals and myself decided to descend upon the town and grub and sip our way through it. Before beginning our rendezvous…
A Peak at Big Beat Dallas
In a couple of weeks you will have the option of eating true Texan style brisket 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That includes after a late night of boozing and Bankhead Bouncing. The moment you flap your eyes open on any given day at any given time, tender, smoky brisket will be possible. Let that sink in for a second. Or better yet, get up and get yourself some brisket at this very moment, just because you can. Specializing in “Old Stove” recipes, Texas Jam House isn’t just dishing out brisket 24 hours a day, they’ve got a variety of classic Texas dishes. Including a meatloaf…
A Look at Las Perlas in Austin
Las Perlas 5 Stars $-$$ Mezcal is not for everyone. It’s made for the brave. It’s made for those with tongues built for smoky rendezvous and bellies that burn with liquid fire. It is unique. But, the truth is you’re not always in the mood for a smoky tongue or a burning belly, which is why I was skeptical about visiting Las Perlas. Recently opened on 403 E. 7th Street in Austin, it’s the second Las Perlas location, and the first in Texas. The concept comes courtesy of the LA based 213 Hospitality, also the crafty creators of Half Step and Seven Grand Whiskey Bar. Las Perlas offers a uniquely…
Good Times at The Brixton
The Brixton – 4.5 Stars $$ When visiting The Brixton, it’s not simply a restaurant, it’s an experience. With a Vegas style vibe, the new eatery and two-story nightclub is in a league of its own. The brothers of Harder Concepts and Chef Patrick Stark have created a rockin menu for the rock and roll vibe here. With most of the options served in shareable portions, this is a great spot to grub and dance with a few of your pals. What to Order – Bloody Mary Shrimp Shooters made with grilled herb brined shrimp. You’ll also want to try the Bacon Bites, made with smoked Nueske’s Bacon, fresh Granny…
The Chelsea Corner Comeback
Chelsea Corner – 4 Stars It’s a Tuesday night, and the cocktail of choice is equal parts 20 to 30 somethings and empty nesters. Since their inception in 1974, this has been the shaken and not stirred make-up for Chelsea Corner. Recently reopened, Chelsea Corner is up to its old tricks, but this time around they’ve added an extra punch to the elixir. Having never visited Chelsea Corner during their first go round, I wasn’t sure what to expect of the longstanding establishment. Revitalized by Len Critcher, owner of Inwood Tavern, and his longtime friend and Dallas investor Chris Camillo, the two cut their teeth here during their college days…
Sharing is Caring at The Brixton
Slated to open this month, The Brixton joins, Ringos Pub, Addison Ice House, Mucky Duck, Scruffy Duffies, Saintsburry Tavern and Brian’s Red Bus. With each concept owners Jerry Elliot and Brian Harder have worked to make the experience a little different at each concept. Part of that difference comes from the recent addition of Patrick Stark AKA The Mohawked Chef. With his colorfully tall mohawk, Stark is a man who likes to make statements. This has turned out to be exceptionally true with food. Interested in creating a more balanced approach to the cuisine served at each concept, Stark is able to mix the need for health conscious and “dude…
A Glimpse at Public School 972
$$ What to order- While I got a kick out of the BLT Steak Salad, you should definitely, definitely save room for or simply order the lemon meringue pie to go. I promise, you will not regret it. Where to find them– 14854 Montfort Ave, Addison, TX 75254 Phone– (972) 788-8484 That whole parking thing– The lot is fairly large, but feel free to valet.
The Ivy Divey Brunch Buffet at Ivy Tavern
Ivy Tavern 3.5 Stars The best Saturday nights carry over into Sunday mornings. In case you were wondering, a good indication of a Saturday evening well spent are flashbacks of going toe to toe with Mr. Daniels and JB, then finishing up with some fancy footwork. Preferably to The Macarena. After such wonderfully foolish behavior, you’ll likely awaken feeling quite famished and possibly a tad bit embarrassed. Well, at least one of those can be cured with a fork. The ultimate dive bar, Ivy Tavern is currently offering the perfect hangover solution with their new Ivy divey brunch buffet. First, remember, that this is a dive bar. So, don’t…
Don’t Knock Next Door
Next Door Skimming through your standard bar menu “fried” is known to make a few appearances. It typically shares the spotlight with wings, cheese, burgers, and on extra special occasions, calamari. While I’ve always had an affinity for the usual suspects, it’s nice to see a new cast member every now and again. Enter, Next Door. Located on one of the busiest streets in Uptown, Mc Kinney Ave, it may take a few minutes to find Next Door. It’s not a sign that gives it away, but a large gold door knocker perched near the roof. Upon entrance into the two story lounge, you’ll notice it’s just one of many…