mbreed's Profile
One shot in Dallas...
I also would recommend York Street. I took some vendor partners from NYC there, and all were very impressed, even by NYC standards.
Hibiscus is also outstanding.
Warning: Overpriced wine shop in Dallas, TX.
It's funny, the owner I spoke with made a point to mention that everything is priced retail, and that you can enjoy a bottle in the shop at the same price as taking one home. I agree with you that it seems the opposite is taking place.
New York style pizza
Give Coal Vines a try. It was started by a former NYC police officer.
Coal Vines
2404 Cedar Springs
Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: 214-855-4999
Warning: Overpriced wine shop in Dallas, TX.
Buyer beware! Wanted to share a poor experience at a relatively new wine shop in Dallas. Steer clear of this wine shop, and avoid the mistake I made.
The wine shop is "Brut: A Champagne Boutique” on Mockingbird in Dallas, TX (brutdallas.com).
The seller marks nearly all sparkling wines at $25. I purchased a Gruet Brut; I nice bottle, but $13 nice at Tom Thumb, vs. the $25 I paid. I love to support to local guy, but this is ridiculous.
The blame is on me, as I should have known better. But it's disappointing to see a seller like this in business.
2 nights in Santa Fe - Where to dine?
Better late then never! Here's a brief account of the places we visited in Santa Fe...
Trattoria Nostrani for dinner. We had an exceptional meal, and terrific service. We chose to sit inside, and the setting was very comfortable and intimate. Perhaps a little too intimate, as we were seated so close to another couple that we were essentially eating together. Even though the space is small, they could stand to separate the tables just a bit. My most memorable dish was a simple ravioli in a fresh tomato ragu.
Anasazi for dinner. Not a bad experience, but a bit more generic. I was hoping for some bolder southwest flavors, and was slightly disappointed. The service was good, but lacked hospitality - not much warmth. Again, we were very happy overall. But comparing with such a memorable experience the prior night, we were a bit underwhelmed.
For lunches: Plaza Cafe upon arriving. Great local spot, festive with a mariachi band playing, and absolutely packed. El Farol on Canyon Road. We had excellent sandwiches. It was a great stop after walking through the galleries. Looked like it would be solid for dinner as well. Before leaving, made it to Coyote Cafe's rooftop cantina. Glad we did lunch here instead of dinner. The rooftop, outdoor cantina has a great feel.
For breakfast, we made it to Cafe Pasqual's. Again, definitely a local scene. We ate at a community table, and had a chance to talk to other tourists as well as locals. Excellent food.
Also, drinks on the 2nd floor patio of the Ore House. Not the best margaritas, but a great place for drinks before dinner. Overlooks the plaza, great people watching. Good salsa.
Thanks for everyone's suggestions. I would highly recommend a weekend to Santa Fe to get away from it all.
2 nights in Santa Fe - Where to dine?
Thanks to all for your feedback. I've made reservations at Trattoria Nostrani and Anasazi. I'll be sure to post reviews when I get back.
Best,
Michael
Avanti Fountain Place . . . Feedback Needed
We had our rehersal dinner at Avanti Fountain Place, and had a wonderful experience. The food was excellent, and the space is intimate. It made for great photos.
Highland Park/SMU Dallas area
Reikyu in Mockingbird Station (Mockingbird & I-75). Really close to Trinity Hall too, for good beer selection.
Highland Park/SMU Dallas area
Yes, Bubba's has excellent breakfasts too. I lived in an apartment across from Bubba's during college, and it's a wonderful thing to wake up every morning to the smell of fried chicken!
what is best BBQ in Dallas?
Peggy Sue's BBQ in Snider Plaza. It's a great, small local place. Great local atmosphere and excellent BBQ. Snider Plaza is a cool area in University Park, really close to the SMU campus.
I'm a fan of both Texas and Memphis BBQ, and I get the pulled pork sandwich here.
2 nights in Santa Fe - Where to dine?
My wife and I are going to spend two nights celebrating her birthday in Santa Fe. With so many great choices, I am having trouble deciding where to eat. Here are the three I'm most seriously considering:
Aqua Santa - Brian Knox's place
Anasazi - I've heard the outdoor dining here has an incredible view, and the food is wonderful.
Trattoria Nostrani - We love Italian food & spent her birthday last year in Italy. But is the food worth the $120 price point? It sounds a little stuffy with the "no fragrance" policy.
I'm anxious to hear your thoughts on these, and any other recommendations you may have.
Thanks!
Michael
