There are 168 days left until the 2015 State Fair of Texas kicks off, which means we’ve just blown past the halfway mark. Instead of waiting six months to indulge in greasy, sticky comfort food, check out these year-round alternatives to state fair bites. Turns out you really can have your doughnut grilled cheese sandwich and eat it too.
Quesas
What: These fried, corn empanada-like pastries are pumped full of savory ingredients such as cheese, meat, and vegetables. Sink your teeth into the pickle and cheese quesa, or the “fideo” that’s stuffed full of vermicelli pasta, chorizo, and avocado.
Where: Quesa
The State Fair
What: PAMA pomegranate liqueur, prosecco, and house-made cotton candy.
Where: Oak
What: Bite-sized chicken stuffed with cheddar cheese and freshly diced jalapeños, each piece is then wrapped in bacon and deep fried. The appetizer comes with a side of house-made ranch dressing.
Where: Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
Tortilla-Crusted Avocado Fries
What: These are fairly self-explanatory. Large avocado slices are covered in tortilla chips and then fried.
Where: C’Viche
Doughnut Grilled Cheese With Bacon
What: A glazed doughnut serves as the bread for this grilled cheese and bacon sandwich. The dish is currently only available on the late night menu.
Where: Glazed Donut Works
Turkey Leg
What: An enormous turkey leg. Straightforward and delicious.
Where: BrainDead Brewing
Jon Bars
What: Chocolate, nougat, caramel, and toasted peanuts. Like a gourmet (and super messy) Snickers Bar.
Where: Kessler Park Eating House