Savor Archives - Page 2 of 4

WINTER’S DELIGHTS

by societytexas | Dec 30, 2021 | 2022 January February, Savor

With the new year ahead, so many culinary opportunities beckon us all. Leave it to our editors Lance Avery Morgan (Austin), Cynthia Smoot (Dallas), Jake Gaines (Houston), and Alexandra del Lago (San Antonio) to recommend the best of the newest.

AUSTIN

What’s not to love about Verbena’s 36-seat bar and lounge, 60-seat dining room, and open kitchen with a wood-burning hearth, both of which open to a lush open-air courtyard? The old-world farm-to-table fare is artfully composed in a modern presentation to delight every guest.

At VerbenaATX.com.

CARIBBEAN CHARACTER

At Canje, traditional meets innovative in this New Age Caribbean cuisine restaurant on the east side. The name refers to the Canje Pheasant, the national bird of Guyana. From Jamaica to Puerto Rico, Canje explores techniques, ingredients, and the many expressions of vibrant food across the region.

At CanjeATX.com.

GOING WEST

The Westlake Wine Bar in Davenport Village is the new destination. Not only does it offer over 150 wines, but also a menu of beef bourguignon, tartare, steaks, and fish, alongside bar snacks with either indoor or patio dining available.

At WestlakeWineBar.com.

DALLAS

ASIAN MIX

Elephant East in The Harwood District offers guests a menu that focuses on technique, flavors, and signature dishes from Southeastern Asia, as well as stylish cocktails, sake, and soju. The design features hand-carved wood, tropical and bamboo greenery and a symphony of rich jewel tones.

At ElephantEastDallas.com.

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE

National Anthem is the much-anticipated concept from Chef Nick Badovinus in downtown Dallas’ newly revitalized East Quarter. The interior is divided into the main dining room and the bar area with several high-top tables. Look for a classic American menu of salads, burgers, seafood, pasta, and more that are sure to please.

At NationalAnthemDTX.com.

AMIGOS WELCOME

La Mina is the latest concept to open at The Village residential development. Look for regional Mexican food and agave cocktails in a subterranean spot beneath the Drey Hotel. We especially love the weekend brunch.

At TheVillageDallas.com.

HOUSTON

FINE AND FINER

Celebrating 75 years, the place to be by the Texas Medical Center is the Intercontinental Hotel’s new restaurant offerings, including Safina, the all-day, modern Mediterranean eatery and cosmopolitan craft cocktail destination, The Naturalist Café and the Lounge Bar. Revel in their modern design paired with unrivaled hospitality.

At SafinaHouston.com.

Chocolate Crepe Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café

LATIN SWANK

Toro Toro is the chic new pan Latin restaurant at the Four Seasons downtown. It celebrates the vibrant, robust flavors and convivial dining culture of Central and South America, to offer guests a unique spin on the contemporary steakhouse experience.

At ToroToroHouston.com.

INTO THE WOODLANDS

The Woodlands Resort is often ranked one of the best resorts in the country. Always a favorite, it has been reinvigorated with significant enhancements from The Weston and Hilton’s Curio Collection of hotels and restaurants. Try the new Back Table Kitchen and Bar for a memorable experience.

At WoodlandsResort.com.

SAN ANTONIO

CHARGING ONWARD

Battalion, a favorite destination in San Antonio, was once the home of the city’s Firehouse #7. Now, it has been transformed into an Italian restaurant where fresh homemade pasta is made daily. Both the dinner and cocktails served in the vintage firehouse décor are delectable.

At BattalionSA.com.

MODERN’S TWIST

Here’s a modern tribute to South Texas cuisine on the historic San Antonio River Walk. With its delectable Mexican flavors, you can’t go wrong inside or on the luxe veranda with the gorgeous view.

At DomingoRestaurant.com

Sandwich Best Quality Daughter San Antonio

SEE YOU AT THE PEARL

Botika, in The Pearl, continues to be as popular as ever. While enjoying the dining interior, or al fresco, both are ideal for the sushi Asian fusion fare. Plus, it’s popular for both day and night outings for business…or pleasure.

At BotikaPearl.com.

SEASONS’ EATINGS

by societytexas | Oct 31, 2021 | 2021 November December, Savor

With the whirlwind holiday season upon us, we wonder how we’re going to enjoy all the new culinary offerings in the state. Leave it to our editors Lance Avery Morgan (Austin), Cynthia Smoot (Dallas), Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Alexandra del Lago (San Antonio), to recommend the best of the newest.

AUSTIN

LET’S GO HIGHER

Higher Ground is Austin’s newest social club catering to elevated souls with enlightened spirits. The new multi-level venue is a place to dance the night away and a house of worship to culinary delights and designer cocktails. Our favorite part? Beyond all the stained glass, we love the DJ booth that resides in a former pipe organ.

At HigherGroundATX.com.

SOHO ON SOCO

The new SoHo House on South Congress is the only SoHo in Texas. Taking its cue from the region’s art and environment, it’s an option for the creative types and those who love them. The clubby menu for cuisine and cocktails is exactly what you’d expect, and it’s perfect for lighter fare. We love the rooftop pool with a view of downtown and that it’s also a hotel.

At SoHoHouse.com.

MOD MEX

Comedor (Spanish for dining room) is a new and elevated Mexican cuisine experience. The chic space in downtown Austin offers a pleasant vibe as well as superior Latin food. Famous for its fusion of spices, the menu offers many choices for any palate.

At ComedorTX.com.

DALLAS

ADVANCED MIXOLOGY

Experience worldly fare and craft cocktails at Milkshake Concepts’ striking new restaurant, Harper’s. The 7,655-square-foot restaurant features an alluring atmosphere and gourmet cuisine. With its top-notch culinary and mixology talent and vibrant ambiance, Harper’s was designed to stand out.

At HarpersDallas.com.

STEAK SUPERIOR

Dakota’s Steakhouse has been a downtown Dallas dining icon for over 37 years. This cool oasis is complete with a 20 foot, 5-tiered granite water wall, multi-tiered landscaping, lava rock fire pit, and black granite bar. The new below-ground patio has long been considered one of the city’s most romantic dining spots.

At DakotasRestaurant.com

WELL, HAY THERE

Haywire recently opened a second location nestled in Uptown. The concept offers guests delicious farm-to-table recipes and signature Texas dishes with southern favorites like fried chicken steaks and whiskey BBQ ribs to craft beers and a Texas-sized whiskey list. Pro tip: If you have six or more in your party, ask to be seated in the custom Shasta trailer on the spacious patio.

At HaywireRestaurant.com.

HOUSTON

ALL DAY & ALL NIGHT

The EaDo-style mega clubs, Sekai Nightclub and Dayclub and Wyld Child, both by Sekai Hospitality, offer an immersive, festival-like feeling of sights and sounds that will envelop guests in the largest indoor/outdoor space of its kind in the city. Its unrivaled and unforgettable guest experiences, paired with exceptional service, in dynamic, one-of-a-kind environments and locations are throughout Houston.

At SekaiHospitality.com.

TULUM, TX

The new Casa Nomad is nestled in an intimate patio setting decked out in tropical and Tulum-worthy finishes. The concept sports a sultry-chic vibe and will feature music in the “jungle disco” style from the sand-covered streets of Tulum. Located in the Heights, join family and friends to enjoy delicious food and unique cocktails, then sit back to enjoy live music on the lawn or take in an on-site event.

At CasaNomadHTX.com.

CATCH THE 915

Lovers of new Mexican fare unite. The 915 (a nod to El Paso’s area code) brings a taste of El Paso to the Heights by serving up innovative south-of-the-border specialties. Most popular is surely the red chile enchiladas, green flautas ahogadas, brisket-stuffed flautas a la Chuco, and the nachos Montados.

At Facebook.com/The915HTX.

SAN ANTONIO

OYSTER’S BAY

From a dream formed while dining on oysters in Paris, voilà, the concept was born for Little Em’s Oyster Bar. With a wide array of both seafood and other delicious fares, the Dressed Oysters, with caviar, crème fraiche, and champagne, is a favorite on the varied menu.

At LittleEmsOysterBar.com.

OH, MY DARLIN’

We love that Clementine is a family-owned, neighborhood restaurant serving up seasonal eats inspired by global flavors…in a casual setting. The New Orleans-inspired cuisine contains an array of seasonally fresh flavors and unique plates. The decadent desserts will spoil your taste buds.

At Clementine-SA.com.

CLASSIC CUISINE

Old school culinary techniques meet farm-to-table best describes Restaurant Gwendolyn. Its unique old-school approach includes an 1850s inspired menu…and no electric tools are used in the kitchen. A classic in the city, it’s a treat for both large groups and more intimate gatherings.

At RestaurantGwendolyn.com.

BACK IN CIRCULATION

by societytexas | Aug 31, 2021 | 2021 September October, Savor

With social gatherings at an all-time high again, we loved the renewed relatability. Join our editors Jake Gaines in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their statewide selections that are perfect to kick off fall.

AUSTIN

WHISTLE, WHY DON’T YOU?

Whisler’s, the craft-cocktail bar, mezcalería, and speakeasy-style haunt on the Eastside creates cocktails that are completely unexpected and expertly executed…it’s what they are known for most. So for a truly special time with friends, this is the place to gather for a memorable experience.

At WhislersATX.com.

IT’S LIKE FAMILY

In two locations now, Uncle Nicky’s Italian Specialties brings to the city a relaxed and approachable, all-day dining experience reminiscent of the cafes of Northern Italy to the city. With plenty of cocktail selections, the all-day service will have you there morning, noon, or night.

At UncleNickys.com.

TO MARKET WE SHALL GO

Opening this fall on the trendy SoCo will be the 40,000 square feet of restaurants including Mignette, a bakery, and diner from Michael Fojtasek of Olamaie; a wine bar, butcher shop, and produce store from Salt & Time; Hawaiian pizza chain Fire Dance Pizza; and a location of local charitable coffee shop, Greater Goods Coffee Co., to name a few.

At StElmoMarket.com.

DALLAS

SIGNATURE SUCCESS

For many years, in their trips to Napa, Tiffany and Daniel Moon developed a great appreciation of the complexity, sophistication, and different flavor profiles of wine. In 2009 they launched their own signature Estate Reserve wines from Napa Valley as a private passion project, Three Moons Wine. Offerings include a 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, a 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, or a 2018 Proprietary Red Blend. Prices start at $42 a bottle and are shipped directly to you.

At ThreeMoonsWine.com.

BEYOND CHICKEN

Firebird Fowl is serving up classic favorite foods with a Texas twist. In addition to the chicken and turkey menu options, you’ll enjoy the ranch-to-table duck, emu, ostrich and Texas quail choices. The cocktail menu features specialty beverages created from house-made infused spirits–even ice-creams on the dessert menu will be alcohol infused. At this Uptown high energy restaurant and bar, fowl play is encouraged.

At FirebirdFowl.com.

LUCKY LORO

Loro, an Asian smokehouse and bar concept from Austin’s Chef Tyson Cole and Pitmaster Aaron Franklin, features grilled and smoked meats with Southeast Asian and Japanese-inspired sauces and sides. The communal indoor space and patio were designed to emulate good old Texas dance halls. With Chef de Cuisine Mike Perez at the helm, Loro Dallas offers dishes exclusive to this location, such as fish and chips, French onion brisket melt, and brisket coconut rice.

At LoroEats.com.

HOUSTON

SUITING UP

There’s a new hot spot in Houston (and Fort Worth) where it’s all fun and games. Pinstripes is a multi-concept restaurant that not only offers terrific food and cocktails, but also is a great venue for entertainment like Bocce ball, bowling, and more.

At Pinstripes.com.

COASTAL VIBE

Eugene’s, formerly Danton’s in River Oaks, the clientele loves the daily specials, from Gulf Coast favorites red snapper, ling, Mahi Mahi, and grouper, to seasonal specials like crawfish, soft-shell crab, and wild-caught salmon. Then there’s the all-natural, certified Angus beef filets and ribeye steaks, fire-grilled over oak and hickory.

At EugenesHouston.com.

ALWAYS GRATEFUL

Gratify Bistro, in the West U neighborhood, transports guests to a classic and Baroque French environment. In fact, it’s a grown-up escape from the every day where the disco ball shimmers and martinis flow. There are plenty of freshly shucked oysters, crudo, tartare, and caviar selections.

At GratifyHouston.com.

SAN ANTONIO

LASTEST LUXE

Landrace, now open at the new Thompson Hotel, honors the pastoral beauty of foods that can be traced back to the land where they are naturally shepherded over time. The seasonal menus celebrate regional Texas ingredients and heritage growers close to home. James Beard Award finalist Steve McHugh, known as San Antonio’s most celebrated chef, helms it.

At LandraceTX.com.

SIGNATURE STYLE

Stout’s Signature, located at the Tobin Center, is the perfect place for a pre-performance gathering. It features upscale plates, from filets to risottos, with a full bar of handcrafted cocktails. We love the wide selection of pizzas and appetizers, too.

At StoutsSignature.com.

HOUSE AND HOME

The airy Guenther House is the Art Nouveau and Victorian home at the Pioneer Flour Mills that offers homey breakfast and lunch, American and Tex-Mex fare, outdoor dining, and event space for special occasions.

At GuentherHouse.com.

CURIOUS ABOUT CUISINE

by societytexas | Jun 30, 2021 | 2021 July August, Savor

Local eateries are open for business, and we all get to support them wherever we go, no matter what city we call home. Join our editors Jake Gaines in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their statewide selections that are perfect for summer.

AUSTIN

NEW CHIC IN TOWN

Lutie’s, the long-waited garden restaurant at the new Commodore Perry Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, is the hit everyone knew it would be. In fact, it might be the best meal in town these days. The restaurant features stunning design by powerhouse style maker Ken Fulk and a culinary program by husband-and-wife chef team Bradley Nicholson and Susana Querejazu, formerly of acclaimed local establishments.

At Luties.com.

ELEVATED ITALIAN

Swift’s Pizza Company, created by Kris Swift and Adam Jacoby of Jacoby’s and Grizzelda’s, offers authentic Italian fare that can’t be beat on the Eastside. Set within Swift’s Future Design decor, we recommend you “build your own pizza” from the delectable menu. The beverage program features modern twists on classic cocktails, as well as local and imported draft beer and wine.

At SwiftPizzaCo.com.

NURTURE NATURE

The newest must-dine in the city, courtesy of the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant group, is hands down ABA, in the newly opened Music Lane development in SoCo. From the modern interiors to the extensive patio seating options under the mighty oaks, it’s a breath of fresh air serving contemporary yet approachable cuisine.

At ABARestaurants.com.

DALLAS

THAT TOWERING FEELING

Eataly Dallas recently opened its first-floor café, Caffè Lavazza, an Italian-style, all-day café and bar experience. The space serves as Eataly Dallas’ first-floor entrance from NorthPark Center. The star of Caffè Lavazza will be La Torre (The Tower), an Italian favorite often found in elegant metropolitan bars, and will feature an overflowing array of savory or sweet bites to share amongst friends (or to enjoy yourself).

At Eataly.com.

MEASURING UP

Commanding three levels and nearly 70,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, this one-of-a-kind Restoration Hardware retail concept presents artistic installations of luxury home furnishings in a gallery setting. It includes the Rooftop Restaurant, which offers an ingredient-driven menu in a year-round, skylit garden escape beneath a dramatic atrium with retractable glass walls, sparkling chandeliers, and heritage olive trees.

At RH.com.

DOG DAY DELIGHT

Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs has added an all-beef dog, Make Mine Texan, at Fletcher’s Pop-Up appearances throughout the summer. Fletcher’s worked with local meat purveyor Syracuse Sausage to create an original recipe for the company made with brisket (and other secret ingredients) to give it a natural, hickory flavor that compliments Fletcher’s proprietary cornmeal batter.

At FletchersCornyDogs.com.

HOUSTON

TELL THEM JAY SENT YOU

Gatsby’s Prime Steakhouse and the Daisy Buchanan lounge seek to bring new energy and a touch of the past to a structure that dates back to the 1920s. Both are on a historic and storied Montrose Boulevard block, just a stone’s throw from the Houston Museum District. The expansive patio is primed for people watching on the colorful thoroughfare.

At GatsbysSteakhouse.com.

COASTAL FLAIR

With so much development in the Woodlands, the Back Table Kitchen & Bar stands alone on the grounds of The Woodlands Resort, serving seasonal, southern-inspired fare with global accents. What’s not to love about the 5,413-square-foot waterfront venue with an 800-square-foot terrace overlooking the 18th green of the Panther Trail golf course?

At BackTableTX.com.

OUI, OUI, PLEASE

A new French dining experience has just arrived in Houston. Always on the forefront of culture, of course, the city’s latest fare, Le Jardinier, is in the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Located in the new Nancy and Rich Kinder Building, the seasonal ingredients and rich nutrients are artfully crafted into each dish.

At LeJardinier-Houston.com.

SAN ANTONIO

CULINARY JEWEL

For a serenely rural and relaxing experience, escape to SweetFire Kitchen, the culinary jewel of La Cantera Resort. The inviting atmosphere allows for indoor and outdoor dining, offering breathtaking views of the sweeping San Antonio Hill Country.

At LaCanteraResort.com.

ABSOLUTELY ASIAN

Recently opened in the lobby of the Jones & Rio building, just a stone’s throw from the San Antonio Museum of Art, Shiro Bistro offers fresh, contemporary Japanese cuisine that pushes the envelope of imagination and possibility through its presentation of cleverly curated plates. Fish is ordered daily, so reservations are encouraged.

At Resy.com.

BEFORE A PERFORMANCE

Looking for upscale dining options before a night at the opera or symphony? Stouts Signature is now open at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring delectable plates from filets to risottos and backed by a full bar of handcrafted cocktails, Stouts Signature at the Tobin Center complements the arts with their own unique dining experience.

At StoutsSignature.com/Tobin.

CURIOUS ABOUT CUISINE

by societytexas | Apr 29, 2021 | 2021 May June, Savor

We love that our statewide local eateries offer a true sense of community wherever we go, no matter what city we call home. Join our editors Jake Gaines in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their statewide selections that are perfect for summer.

AUSTIN

BONJOUR, PARIS

A Parisian-inspired bakery that also imports Swiss chocolates? Sign us up. Those, along with Champagne, macaroons, and French-pedigree baked goods, have never seemed so delicious in the heart of Texas.

At ParisInABite.com.

ASIAN DELUXE

At Otoko, this exclusive 12-seat dining destination is about as rarified a sushi experience gets in this city The chef’s choice multi-course tasting menu runs $175 per person, so expect both expertise and innovation. Before dinner, begin with drinks at Watertrade, attached to the restaurant. Online reservations only.

At OtakoAustin.com.

WITH A TWIST

For old-school cocktails with a new school twist, try The Cavalier, a new destination. The east side eatery is a favorite for the current frozen drink craze that is sweeping the state. We recommend trying them all with the small and large bites they offer.

At TheCavalierTex.com.

DALLAS

FLOAT LIKE A BUTTERFLY

Located on the 49th-floor of The National and alongside the new Thompson Dallas, Monarch is a dazzling restaurant with intimate seating offering soaring views of the city. Featuring 280 seats with skyline views of Dallas, you can wander up a spiral staircase, and you’ll find private dining spaces. The menu consists of handmade pastas, fish, and the Butchers Reserve section of cuisine slow-roasted over a wood fire.

At MonarchRestaurants.com.

ALL HAIL THE SAINT

The Saint Ann Restaurant & Bar recently debuted a newly renovated space with a refreshing menu influenced by the Pacific Northwest and seasonal Texas ingredients. The venue features a garden-inspired atmosphere, a spacious patio for dining, crisp pre-Prohibition-style cocktails inspired by their 1920’s roots, and impressive wines.

At SaintAnnDallas.com.

TRULY TEXAN

Texas Twinkies, the BBQ delicacy made famous by Hutchins BBQ, can now be shipped by the dozen ($65 per dozen) to anywhere in the U.S. The North Texas BBQ joint’s most requested item is a large jalapeño stuffed with cream cheese and Hutchins’ famous brisket, which is then wrapped in thick-cut bacon. Online orders are available whenever you’re ready for a taste of Texas at home.

At HutchinsBBQ.com

HOUSTON

HERE’S THE DISH

Dish Society has quickly become the favorite of the who’s who in the city. The all-day diner turns out a seasonally changing menu with healthful modern twists on traditional favorites. They are also dedicated to using the highest quality and freshest ingredients possible and source a majority of its items locally.

At DishSociety.com.

MEET ME AT THE PALACE

A brand new family-friendly addition to the West University/Bellaire community, Palace Social is slated to open in June. Formerly, the historic Palace Bowling Lanes, the completely renovated space is located in the Southside Commons Development, and we expect it to be a terrific destination this summer.

At PalaceSocial.com.

LUCKY THIRTEEN

The new restaurant, Thirteen, created by former Houston Rockets star James Hardin, combines a unique, upscale dining experience with exceptional food. Plus, amid a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere and the entertainment and first-class service, it’s the place to be this summer.

At ThirteenHOU.com.

SAN ANTONIO

PARISIAN VIBE...

Recently opened in the Historic Pearl by the Southerleigh Hospitality Group, Brasserie Mon Chou Chou is just the escapism we all need when traveling to Paris for a très chic French culinary experience is off the table. Be sure not to miss out on ordering the main attraction during your dining event: the Sandwich au Fromage Raclette…melted live onto your plate from a large wheel of piping hot Parmesan. Bon Appetit to all.

At BrasserieMonChouChou.com.

FOUR STAR-WORTHY

Brunch on the Riverwalk at the four-star Mokara Hotel? Yes, absolutely. Omni Hotels has acquired the Mokara Hotel & Spa that serves up a stylish and delicious dining experience with a view at its new delectable restaurant, Ostra.

At OmniHotels.com.

BEYOND THE MORNING RITUAL

A local favorite, Revolucion Coffee + Juice, has been supporting a balanced wellness lifestyle since 2012 with innovative coffee, juice, and plant-forward food. They’ve just opened a new location at the RIM for dwellers in and near Boerne and the Dominion for diners who like to venture outside of the loop for an adventure.

At RevolucionSA.com.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2021 | 2021 March April, Savor

Local eateries offer more than just comfort food during challenging times…they offer a true sense of community. Join our editors Lance Avery Morgan in Austin, Cynthia Smoot in Dallas, Jennifer Roosth in Houston, and Eleanora Morrison in San Antonio as they share their statewide selections that are socially safe.

AUSTIN

MILLED & MADE FRESH

New Austin, in Dripping Springs, Abby Jane Bakeshop is a locally owned bakery committed to using stone-milled, heritage flours in all their baked goods. The leavened breads, flaky pastries, and seasonal desserts tempt, along with Roman-style pizzas, grain salads, coffee, tea, and local brews. At AbbyJaneBakes.com.

GREEN WITH ENVY

The new Teal House Coffee and Bakery on SoCo is already famous for its rolls, croissants, and pies. The family-run shop’s caramel sticky buns, cookies, and cinnamon rolls with Nutella, as well as light lunch options such as soups, salads, and sandwiches on bread made in-house, are all equally tempting. At TealHouse.co.

ITALIAN STALLION

The new Tony C’s Pizza & Beer Garden serves up a cheery style as a side dish to its fan-favorite New York-style pizza, salads, and homemade lasagna. Plus, there’s a large selection of beers on draft, as well as plenty of wine to pair with your meal. At TonyCsBeerGarden.com.

DALLAS

THAT’S SO HOT

Texas native and Nashville-bred, Palmer Fortune has tongues wagging with the creation of an authentic Nashville hot chicken concept called Palmer’s Hot Chicken. The entire menu is made from scratch, and their chicken requires a laborious 24-hour process. Enjoy Palmer’s famous frosé on the covered patio, complete with fans, during warmer Texas weather. At PalmersHotChicken.com.

FLYIN’ HIGH

Once a vintage gas station built in 1922, Thunderbird Station is a full-service bar with bites in Deep Ellum, known for its nostalgic menu and space. With indoor seating and a giant patio, it has a place for everyone. At ThunderbirdStation.com.

A WHOLE LADA GOODNESS

Located in far North Dallas, LADA is a new fine-casual concept from Chef Michael Ehlert. The former executive chef of Mirador and The French Room has created a menu featuring six different enchilada options, elotes (corn) on a stick, Mexican fried rice, and more. Ehlert’s vision is to create elevated dishes based on traditional favorites. At EatLADA.com.

HOUSTON

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS

The pizzeria with pizzazz, inspired by the team behind Nancy’s Hustle, has opened up in a new locale that has something for everyone: vegetables, pasta, pizza, and ice cream, along with natural wines, beers, ciders, cocktails, and root beer. At TinyChampionsHouston.com.

FOR THE RECORD

The place to be in Montrose is 93 Til. It has an innovative menu, lots of records paired with innovative cocktails, and laid-back vibes. In fact, a new record playlist is created nightly so that the action never stops. At 93-Til.com.

HIT THE STREETS

The best new Thai restaurant in Houston just might be Street to Kitchen. Count on everything here being made from scratch, including the curry pastes and sauces that go into the specialty dishes like Pad Thai. At StreetToKitchen.com.

SAN ANTONIO

THE FINEST CATCH

As San Antonio’s premier contemporary Japanese sushi house, Uniko serves high-quality fresh

fish from across the globe. With a selection incomparable to other sushi restaurants in town,

locals may enjoy weekly specials of ultra-rare varieties. At UnikoJapaneseHouse.com.

HALF-SHELL HAPPINESS

Southtown has a new pearl of an eatery: Little Em’s Oyster Bar. Young, local newlyweds Emily and Houston Carpenter left no half-shell unturned with the concept for their hip hot spot that recently opened. Already a hit for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, this menu is a must-try next time you find yourself wandering in King William. At LittleEmsOysterBar.com.

SWEETEST TREATS

Now open at San Antonio’s Boardwalk center on lower Broadway, the team behind the Chocollazo pastry shop has introduced their new dessert concept, Black + White Modern Creamery, serving fresh, locally made dairy and non-dairy ice cream and cold treats in traditional and modern flavors. At BlackWhiteCreamery.com.