With everyone returning to restaurants like never before, there are a plethora of new, beautiful ones to try, as well as favorites to try again, according to our savvy eatery devotees, Rob Giardinelli (Austin), Cynthia Smoot (Dallas), Rob Giardinelli (Houston) and Alexandra del Lago (San Antonio).
AUSTIN
YOUR LOCAL VINTNER
Located in Westlake, Neighborhood Vintner offers over 1,000 wine bottles for retail purchases at varying price points, along with wines available in the store by the glass, all of which pair exquisitely with their charcuterie menu. The locale is perfect for meeting a friend after work, as the first stop on a night out, or to obtain a last-minute host gift en route to a dinner party.
STEAK-ING A CLAIM
Dean’s Italian Steakhouse is a classic American steakhouse with Italian expression that has recently opened its first Texas location. Located downtown on the ground floor of the JW Marriott Austin, Dean’s offers the best cuts of steak, market fresh seafood, and house-made pasta…and a killer happy hour menu to boot.
SEA THE TEX-MEX
Brought to Austin by Tex-Mex restaurant company Trudy’s, Trudy’s Del Mar recently opened in the former South Congress Café location. It offers a nod to its iconic predecessor by continuing its beloved brunch menu while serving unique and exciting seafood dishes inspired by traditional recipes from Mexican Coastal living.
At Trudys.com.
DALLAS/FORT WORTH
PAN-ASIAN SPECIFIC
Known for its take on Pan-Asian cuisine and craft cocktails, Alice recently launched new menu offerings. The refreshed menu by Ashkan Moeinearaghi, their executive chef, offers memorable dishes centered around sushi, sashimi, and nigiri plates.
At AliceDallas.com.
RIGHT THIS WAY, SĒR
Located inside the Hilton Anatole, SĒR Steak + Spirits is a contemporary American steakhouse with unparalleled views of the Dallas skyline. They have reopened with a new executive chef, a globally- inspired menu, and a dining experience that ignites the senses.
At SerSteak.com.
ALL IS FAIR
Running September 30–October 23, this year’s State Fair of Texas is themed Treats Of Texas and there’s no tastier treat than a Fletcher’s Original Corny Dog slathered in mustard. Get your Fletcher’s fix at one of seven stands scattered throughout the fairgrounds. Can’t make the Fair this year? They ship nationally through Goldbelly.
HOUSTON
LUNCH ON THE MENU
A hit since it opened for happy hour and dinner service this spring, The Warwick recently added lunch to its stellar dining repertoire. The New American fare, with a Southern Twist lunch menu, features culinary classics such as Shrimp Po’ Boy and Cajun pasta, as well as a delectable Cobb salad.
HAMSA MORE
Recently opened in Rice Village, Hamsa is a Modern Israeli restaurant featuring elevated classics from the Middle East. Shared plates are recommended, and the space also features a six-person chef’s table, called Yalla Yalla, where culinary connoisseurs can sample a curation of the chef’s top selections. At HamsaHTX.com.
SHACK DADDY
Opening its first location in Houston, California-based Daddy’s Chicken Shack offers a wide range of scrumptious chicken offerings that are a fusion of American South and Southeastern Asian flavors. The menu also features breakfast and vegan offerings so the whole family can enjoy.
SAN ANTONIO
SUGAR FIX
Sugar Factory American Brasserie, the eatery known for its over-the-top dishes and treats, has opened its second Texas location in downtown San Antonio. The world-famous, family-friendly, high-energy celebration destination has been designed to give guests an interactive experience filled with memorable moments.
At SugarFactory.com.
PEARL DROP-IN
The much-anticipated Carriqui at the Pearl aims to honor its past and usher in the next chapter with the very best offerings that create a space for joyful gathering. Named after the green jay of South Texas, it features fresh seafood from the Gulf, Rio Grande-inspired botana platters, pit-cooked barbacoa and brisket, a masa program, and a robust cocktail and beverage program.
At CarriquiTX.com
FULL & HAPPY
Located at the Pearl, Full Goods Diner serves scratch-made, seasonally-driven food for breakfast and lunch. In addition, it serves comforting and familiar everyday food to connect the restaurant to its central and South Texas roots of Mexican and American fare. The design also embodies the warm and welcoming environment with rich wooden accents, plenty of natural light, and a greenhouse-style entry.