http://www.dallasnews.com/news/commun...

-----
Amici
1022 S Broadway St, Carrollton, TX 75006

Great posts. Thanks for all the info!

Just wondering why no one has mentioned Fearings at The Ritz? Haven't been there yet, but thought it might be somewhere worth mentioning.

So sorry to hear about the demise of Spicer's garden. A little piece of Dallas has died...and it makes me sad.

The country store inside of the Weir's Furniture Stores carry them. I have also seen them at Krogers (probably cheaper).

Was there a super long wait? What time did you go?

Ouch!!! I'd be pissed, too.

We just recently had a 21st birthday party for my son at Cafe Istanbul and it was fabulous!!! I went beforehand to pick out the food and had them serve it family style. This helped to control costs and keep things running smoothly. They were able to seat us in a somewhat private area, which really made it nice. The best part, however, was the belly dancer. She was absolutely amazing and really made a fuss over my son!!! We brought a cake, and afterwards, they cut and served it for us. Everyone had a terrific time and I'm sure my son will remember it forever. Perfect place for a graduation party!

-----
Cafe Istanbul
5450 W Lovers Ln Ste 222, Dallas, TX 75209

Very good heated up and poured over the tamales or chips. Freshly made and not at all spicy. I think it was about $4.

They are known for their margaritas, but the food is also very good...not great, but consistently good. Very tasty fajitas, especially the shrimp. Not crazy about their beef dishes...a bit on the tough side. You might also check out Cantina Laredo.

Thanks for the info. Went by Tommy Tamales last week and brought some home to try. So far, I've only had the pork, but I must say, they were delicious!!! Also bought chips and some chili con carne. The tamales come in packages of six. Just drop them in boiling water for about 15 minutes and they're done. Really quick and tasty meal!

Go over to the Gaylord Texan in nearby Grapevine and check out the "Ice" exhibit. Very popular winter wonderland that will get you in the holiday spirit. The only downside -- it's not cheap. Lots of other stuff to do and see within the hotel, including several places to drink and eat. Very popular with tourists.

Buttons (Addison Location) -- Filthy, poor service and food that tastes as though it was left over from lunch.

Nosh -- Very nice, good food...just doesn't live up to all the hype.

Buy two cowboy casseroles. They are really good. Not too impressed with the others.

Steak -- Bob's Chop House in Grapevine
Silver Fox in Grapevine
(both are somewhat upscale)
Old Hickory Steak House at the Gaylord Hotel (upscale)

Seafood -- Truluck's in Southlake (upscale)

Pizza -- Cavalli's in Irving (great neapolitan style) (very casual)

Home Cooking -- Babe's Chicken in Roanoke (very casual)

Italian -- Ferrari's in Grapevine (somewhat upscale)

American -- Ama Lur at the Gaylord Hotel in Grapevine (somewhat upscale)

Brunch -- Riverwalk at the Gaylord Hotel In Grapevine (casual)

These are my favorites. Hope this helps.

-----
Silver Fox Restaurant
1235 William D Tate Ave, Grapevine, TX 76051

Just tried Potager for the first time tonight and I must say, it was really delicious. The food was perfectly seasoned and super fresh. I loved the fact that you could truly taste the food itself, rather than just a mouthful of spices. The vegetable soup was out of this world (I had three cups)!

The place takes a little getting used to, though. As mentioned in previous posts, the portions are small, so you have to ask for more. This didn't bother my husband at all, but it was a little akward for me. I got over it though!

Overall, really cozy place with terrific food. Owner was especially sweet. Maybe I can get that vegetable soup recipe!!!

-----
Potager Cafe
315 S Mesquite St, Arlington, TX 76010

I went there last night with some friends, and all I can say is that Littleman is right --DON'T GO!!! The food is absolutely horrible! You would do better going out to eat at a hospital cafeteria. I ordered grilled catfish and shrimp and when it arrived at the table, it was unrecognizeable and cold. It sort of reminded me of my days in the school cafeteria. Out of 16 people, only one person thought the food was ok--and he had steak. The drinks weren't much better--couldn't make a pina colada, didn't have merlot, cheap tequila, etc. Only bright spot was that we had a sweet waitress. Everybody was complaining, and not just at our table. I felt so bad for her, I just sat there and didn't say a word.

Make that three votes for Rise. Perfect for what you're looking for! Go early (11:30 sharp) or late (after 1:30) to avoid the crowds.

Thanks for the suggestions. I think we've decided on Local Diner because of the informal atmosphere. Looks perfect for the occassion. I'll report back.

-----
Local Diner
120 S Denton Tap Rd Ste 490, Coppell, TX 75019

Went to the Fairview (Allen) location for lunch today and it was really delicious! Beautiful surroundings, but I was surprised that we were the only ones there. The meal started off with complimentary homemade potato chips and crudites accompanied by some sort of spicy dip that was out of this world. My entree was a jalapeno crusted sea bass with whipped yukon gold potatoes. The sea bass was perfectly cooked and not spicy at all. Serving size was unusually large with two filets and enough whipped potatoes for two. For dessert, I had some sort of pineapple panna cotta with pistachio biscotti. Very light and delicious. I think the entree price was about $17. I haven't had such a nice lunch in a long time. Highly recommend!!!

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good place to have a business breakfast in the Irving area? Thanks.

Definitely Hatties. Get the Pecan Crusted Catfish or the Shrimp with Grits. Fried Green Tomato Appetizer is great, too!

Every year, my husband and I go to Trulucks during stone crab season. The stone crabs are consistently terrific, but the sides are consistently poor. A little disappointing, given the high prices. We'll keep going, though, because no one outshines them when it comes to stone crab!

I appreciate the recommendation, but I can't fathom how anyone could possibly think this place is great. In my opinion, they have the worst italian food ever! Oh well, different strokes for different folks is all I have to say. Thanks anyway.

Try Houston's...just down the road on Beltline near Montfort. Also, Manny's Tex-Mex on Midway just south of Beltline. Great brisket tacos!

Thanks for the review. I think I'll skip it. I hate to pay for a high priced meal and then be disappointed in the food and service.

Maybe I'll give it a try for lunch this weekend. I noticed only one menu on their website. Are the prices any cheaper at lunch?

When I called on Saturday to inquire about the dress code, they said it was upscale and I would feel comfortable in something a little more dressy than business casual, but certainly not blue jeans. Just curious, how dressy is this place?

We have to make a quick overnight trip to Edmond, OK tomorrow. Anyone have any recommendations for a good restaurant? Doesn't have to be fancy. Just good food and decent atmosphere. Thanks.

I've tried many others, but Candy Haven in Denton (just off 35E) can't be beat. Order a couple of days before for a terrific selection. Their Italian Cream cake is really outstanding. Be sure to ask them to add a few chocolate covered strawberries on top...always super fresh and covered with Guittard chocolate!
http://www.candyhavenandcakes.com/abo...