Dining Out

Australian

Outback Pub. 1701 N. Marker St., 214-761-9355. Inexpensive.



Bakery/Cafe

Breadwinners Cafe And Bakery. With the most charming open-air courtyard in the city at the site of the old Andrews, Breadwinners is winning renown: loyal breakfast and lunch customers forced the small bakery to open for dinner Wednesdays through Saturdays, and day-time joys like Normandy French Toast and San Antonio Tacts now segue into such eclectic dinners as shrimp macadamia nut stir fry, veggie faji-tas, and Jack Daniel’s barbecued baby back ribs. 3301 McKinney Avenue, 214-754-4940. Inexpensive.

La Madeleine. 11930 Preston Rd., 214-233-6448; 3906 Lemmon Ave., 214-521-0182; 3072 Mockingbird La, 214-696-6960; 4343 W. Northwest Hwy., 214-357-5621; NorthPark Mall, 214-696-2398; Galleria Mall, 214-991-7790; 5U00 W. Park Blvd., Piano, 214-407-1270; 900 Hwy. 114, Grapevine, 817-251-0255; 2101 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817-461-3634; 6140 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, 817-654-0471. Inexpensive.

Massimo Da Milano. 6333 E. Mockingbird Ln., 214-826-9456; 5519 W. Lovers Ln., 214-351-1426; 2121 San Jacinto St., 214-871 -0400; 6109 Berkshire Dr., 214-987-2782; 5100 Belt Line Rd, Addison, 214-661-5255; 4000 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 214-579-0026. Inexpensive.



Barbecue

Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse. Deep in the heart of Texas barbecue, Houston has Goode’s, Fort Worth has Angelo’s, and Dallas has Sonny-Bryan’s. And while Sonny may be gone, his sainted name goes on in franchising; the original dump on Inwood is father to two downtown spots and a strip-mall storefront in far North Dallas. Don’t waste time on the bland cole slaw, canned beans, or soggy fried okra, because the meat’s what matters here; falling-off-the-bone ribs, tender, thick slices of smoky beef, and wonderfully greasy-sausage, all kissed with spicy, thick sauce. The hubcap-sized beer-battered onion rings easily contain a day’s ration of fat and then some, but at Sonny’s, who’s counting? Multiple locations: 2202 Inwood Rd., 214-357-7120; 302 N. Market St., 214-744-1610; 4701 Frankford Rd., 214-447-0102; Macy’s, Galleria Mall, 214-851-5131; 4030 N. MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 222, Irving, 214-650-9564. Inexpensive.

Anderson’s Barbecue House. 5410 Harry Hines Blvd., 214-630-0735. Inexpensive.

Baker’s Ribs. 2724 Commerce St., 214-748-5433; 4844 Greenville Ave., 214-373-0082. Inexpensive.

Billy Blues Bar-B-Que Market. 316 Hillside Village, 214-823-6131. Inexpensive.

Peggy Sue BBQ. 6600 Snider Plaza, 214-987-9188. Inexpensive.

Red Hot & Blue. 9810 N. Central Expwy, Ste. 600, 214-368-7427. Inexpensive.

R.J.’s Sho-Nuff. 4310 Maple Ave., 214-528-5230. Inexpensive.

Sammy’s BBQ. 2126 Leonard St., 214-880-9064. Inexpensive.

Solly’s. 4801 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-387-2900. Inexpensive.

Spring Creek Barbecue. 270 N. Central Expwy, Richardson, 214-669-0505; 14941 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-185-0970; 3514 Airport Fwy., Irving, 214-313-0987. Inexpensive.



Brewpubs

Hubcap Brewery & Kitchen. 1701 N. Market St., 214-651-0808. Moderate.

Tworows Restaurant & Brewery. 5500 Greenville Ave., Ste. 1300, 214-696-2739. Moderate.

Yegua Creek Brewing Company. 2920 N. Henderson Ave., 214-824-BREW. Inexpensive.



British

Jennivine. 3605 McKmney Ave., 528-6010. Moderate.



Burgers/Casual

Chip’s. 4501 N. antral Expwy., 214-526-1092; 4530 W. Lovers Ln., 214-691-2447. Inexpensive.

Chuck’s Old-Fashioned Hamburgers. 8309 Westchester Dr., 214-369-7600; 502 Spanish Village. 214-386-7752; 2661 Midway Rd., Carrollton, 214-407-9757; 1308 Preston Rd., Ste. 380, Plano, 214-596-4211. Inexpensive.

Club Schmitz. 9661 Denton Dr., 214-350-1607. Inexpensive.

Filling Station. 6862 Greenville Ave., 214-691-4488; 15201 Addison Rd., Addison, 214-458-8841. Inexpensive.

Hard Rock Cafe. 2601 McKinney Ave, 214-855-0007. Inexpensive.

Jake’s Old-Fashioned Hamburgers. 6606 Skillman St., 214-349-1422; 10226 Garland Rd., 214-319-6060. Inexpensive.

Planet Hollywood. 603 Munger St., 214-749-7827. Inexpensive.

San Francisco Rose. 3024 Greenville Ave., 214-826-2020. Inexpensive.

Slider & Blues. 8517 Hillcrest Rd., 214-696-8632; 18110 Midway Rd., 214-732-6361; 104 S. Denton Tap Rd., Coppell, 214-393-9040. Inexpensive.

Snuffer’s. 3526 Greenville Ave., 214-826-6850; 14910 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-991-8811. Inexpensive.



Cajun/Creole

Crescent City Cale. N’Awlins in a funky industrial setting, Crescent City Cafe brings spicy gumbo, huge muffalettas, fried oyster po-boy’s and de riguer red beans & rice to Deep Ellum. On a recent visit, the noisy ambiance and street scenery kept both downtown business suits and pony-tailed artsy types occupied as the too-few waitstatf bustled about, apologizing cheerfully. No harm done: thick, hearty gumbo, stout sandwiches, and cold beer can warm any heart. Avoid non-Cajun offerings, which aren’t bad, just undistinguished. Finish up with syrupy cafe au lait and beignets, and whistle “Dixie” all the way back to the office, 2615 Commerce St., 214-745-1900; 2822 McKinney Ave., 214-969-1885. Inexpensive.

Pappadeaux. Pappadeaux may be a chain, but it consistently prepares lively Cajun and stately New Orleans style food in a welcome and authentic manner. Fresh, ice-cold Gulf oysters are delec-tably topped with crab meat, spinach, and hollandaise on a bed of rock salt. We found the fried alligator to be so sweet, juicy, lightly fried that we plan to have it again, even though it did taste like chicken. Try the strawberry cream cheesecake with fresh berries for dessert. Multiple locations 3520 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-4700; 10428 Lombardy Ln., 214-358-1912; 725 S. Central Expwy., Richardson, 214-235-1181; 1304 E. Copeland Rd., Arlington, 817-543-0544. Moderate.

Cafe Margaux. Crestpark Hotel, 4242 Lomo Alto Dr., 214-520-1985. Moderate.

Copeland’s Of New Orleans. 5353 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-661-1883. Moderate.

Dodie’s Seafood Cafe. 2129 Greenville Ave., 214-821-8890. Inexpensive. Nate’s Seafood & Steak house. 14951 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-701-9622. Moderate.

Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe. 1712 Towne Crossing, Mesquite, 214-235-3700; 316 Main St., Fort Worth, 817-429-7009; 4700 Bryant-Irvin Rd., Fort Worth, 817-292-8584. Inexpensive.

Treebeards. 700 N. Pearl St., 214-871-7477. Inexpensive.



Caribbean

Cafe Gecko. 5290 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-458-9884. Inexpensive.

Carib-B. 2012 Greenville Ave., 214-824-3395. Inexpensive.



Central American

El Gallo De Oro. 4114 Maple Ave., 214-522-6624- Inexpensive.

Gloria’s. 600 W. Davis St, 214-948-3672; 4140 Lemmon Ave., 214-521-7576. Inexpensive.



Chinese

New Big Wong. It’s not so new anymore, and the booths have taken on some extra sag, but this Lower Greenville spot still does a good lunch and late-night business, vending reliable and tasty Chinese standards and an assortment of challenging dishes tor bolder palates. Start with cold noodles drizzled with hot sesame sauce, then move on to walnut shrimp, bean curd with crabmeat, or the excellent eggplant with minced pork in a feisty garlic sauce. Or, you and Dining Companion may want to divvy up one of the large howls of soup; we stand behind the mixed deluxe with bean curd, almost overloaded with shrimp and pork. 2121 S. Greenville Ave., 821-4198. Inexpensive.

Taiwan Restaurant. The menu might look like a lot of other Chinese restaurants’, but that’s where any similarity ends. First, the decor: These elegantly decorated, spacious rooms are lined with windows to take advantage of the view from its second-floor location. Second, dim sum is offered daily (11:30-2:30), and it’s authentic, complete with carts loaded with little plates of these Chinese appetizers. There’s sticky rice, egg rolls, dumplings, and much more, and anything made with shrimp is especially good. Taiwan’s prices are very reasonable, but lunch time offers some bargains-a couple dozen entrees for $5.45-$6.95, which includes egg roll, soup, and fried rice. 4980 Belt Line Rd., 214-387-2333. Moderate.

Uncle Tai’s Hunan Yuan. Massive media hype propelled newly opened Uncle Tai’s to immediate prominence hack in 1983; delectable, gourmet Szechwan fare and attentive, unobtrusive service have kept it on top since. Located near Macy’s in the Galleria, Uncle Tai’s continues churning out amazing Changsha prawns, melt-in-your-mouth crispy beef, potent Uncle Tai Chicken and huge, buttery, ginger-fragrant Jumbo Shrimp. Forgettable wine list; ask one of the ubiquitous, enthusiastic waitpersons for a cold Tsing-Tao beer instead. Don’t miss the diced boneless squab package appetizer for an instant rush of “squab euphoRia.” 13350 Dallas Parkway (in the Galleria, third level), 934-9998. Moderate.

August Moon. 15030 Preston Rd., 214-385-7227; 2300 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-881-0071. Inexpensive.

Cafe Panda. 7979 Inwood Rd., 214-902-9500.

Moderat

Henry Chen’s. 3701 W. Northwest Hwy., 214-956-9560. Moderate.

Jade Garden. 4800 Bryan St., 214-821-0675. Inexpensive.

Lake Pointa China. 906 I-30, Garland, 214-203-8208. Inexpensive.

May Dragon. 4848 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-392-9998. Moderate.

Monkok. 2150N. Collins Blvd., Richardson, 214-644-0404. Inexpensive.

Royal China. 201 Preston Royal Village, 214-361-1771. Inexpensive.

Szechwan Pavilion. 8411 Preston Rd., 214-368-4303; 1152 N. Buckner Blvd., 214-321-7599. Inexpensive.

Young Shins. 3701 W. Walnut St., Garland, 214-487-1188. Inexpensive.



Coffeehous

Cafe Brazil. 6420 N. Central Expwy., 214-691-7791; 2815 Elm St., 214-747-2730; 2221 Abrams Rd., 214-826-9522. Inexpensive.

Cafe Society. 4514 Travis St., Ste. 133, 214-528-6543. Inexpensive.

Java Jones. 3211 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-528-2099; 5706 E. Mockingbird Ln., 214-823-3345. Inexpensive.

La Crème Coffee & Tea. 4448 W. Lovers Ln., 214-369-4188; 700 N Pearl St., 214-954-4188. Inexpensive.



Cuban

Las Americas. 1146 Peavy Rd., 214-324-2604. Inexpensive.



Deli

Bagelstein’s. 8104 Spring Valley Rd., 214-234-3787. Inexpensive.

Deli News. 500 Crescent Court, 214-922-3354; 15775 Hillcrest Rd. at Arapaho Rd., 214-392-3354. Inexpensive.

Gilbert’s New York Delicatessen. 127 Preston Forest Village, 214-373-3333. Moderate.

Preizier’s Delicatessen And Bakery. 116 Preston Valley Shopping Center, 214-458-8896; 3100 Independence Blvd., Piano, 214-964-4044. Inexpensive.

Romano’s. 3111 Monticello Ave., 214-521-1662. Inexpensive.



Eastern European

Franki’s Li’l Europe. If you think nothing but trouble ever came from the former Yugoslavia, a night at Franki’s will set you straight. Try the reliable German combo of bratwurst, ham, sauerkraut and baked apples; the jaeger schnitzel, served with savory spaetzle; or the awe-inspiring pork medallions in wild blackberry sauce, quickly voted Dish We Wish We’d Ordered by the nibblers at our table. The star of show is the ebullient Franki himself, always in suspenders and ready to laugh. No warring factions here-everyone leaves happy. 362 Casa Linda Plaza, 320-0426. Inexpensive to moderate.

Cafe Athenee. 5365 Spring Valley Rd., 214-239-8060. Inexpensive.

The Russian Room. 500 Crescent Court, 214-922-3333. Expensive.



Eclectic

Fog City Diner. This glitzy, San Francisco-spawned transplant is to the traditional plate-lunch palace what Rockefeller Center is to the tepee; you’ll need a reservation. Some dishes pay lip service to the diner concept-chilidogs, burgers, and shakes are available-but you’ll know you’re riding the crest of trendmania when you see “warm chocolate chili tart with coffee ice cream” on the dessert menu. 2401 McKinney Avenue at Maple, 214-220-2401. Inexpensive.

8.0 Restaurant And Bar. 2800 Routh St., 214-979-0880; 111 E. Third St., Fort Worth, 817-336-0880. Inexpensive.

Antares. Reunion Tower, 300 Reunion Blvd., 214-712-7145. Expensive.

Beau Nash. Hotel Crescent Quirt, 400 Crescent Court, 214-871-3242. Moderate.

Brasserie At The Fairmont Hotel. 1717 N. Akard St., 214-720-5291. Moderate.

Cafe Georgi. 2305 Abrams Rd., 214-823-1683. Moderate.

Deep Ellum Cafe. 2706 Elm St., 214-741-9012; 5001 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-392-0894. Moderate.

Dovie’s. 14671 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-233-9846. Moderate.

Kathleen’s Art Cafe. 4424 Lovers Ln., 214-691-2355. Moderate.

The Library Bar. Melrose Hotel, 3015 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-5151. Moderate.

Magic Time Machine. 5003 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-980-1903. Moderate.

Martini Ranch. 2816 Fairmount St., 214-220-2116. Inexpensive.

Pete & Sean’s Angry Dog. 2726 Commerce St., 214-741-4406. Inexpensive.

Pinot’s Wine Bar And Cafe. Z926 N. Henderson Ave., 214-826-1949. Moderate.

Sipango. 4513 Travis St., 214-522-2411. Moderate.



Ethiopian

Dallul. 2515 Inwood Rd., 214-353-0804. Inexpensive.

Queen Of Sheba. 5527 McKinney Ave., 214-521-0491. Inexpensive.

Tana. 3701 W. Northwest Hwy., Ste. 173, 214-350-3234. Inexpensive.



French/Continental

Old Warsaw. Romance is on the menu at Old Warsaw, with its candlelit atmosphere, inobtru-sive service and strolling violinists. The menu is solidly Continental and features lots of tableside preparation. The lobster crepe, packed with cubes of sweet meat, makes an excellent appetizer, as does the rich, creamy Brie soup. The entrees include braised pheasant, rack of lamb, and sweetbreads, and a favorite choice is the crab-stuffed tenderloin. It’s meltingly tender and a visual delight. The wine list is excellent, and you’ll have plenty of time to study it if. as often happens, you’re shown to the bar for a lengthy wait until your table’s ready. 2610 Maple Ave., 214-528-0032. Expensive.

The Pyramid Room. The plush atmosphere, impeccable service and exotic flowers belie the fact that you don’t have to spend big bucks to have a fine meal here. In addition to the regular menu, there’s a five-course dinner for $24 a person offered nightly, like sauteed calamari, chilled cucumber soup, homemade sorbet, and grilled beef tenderloin on polenta. Dessert’s included, and the beautifully garnished macadamia nut torte is a favorite. The lobster bisque is a classic, smooth and rich with morsels of lobster, and the basket of breads is irresistable. The wine list, recognized by The Wine Spectator, is outstanding, and there’s live music nightly. Fairmont Hotel, 1717 N. Akard St., 214-720-5249. Expensive.

Addison Cafe. 5290 Belt Line Rd., Ste. 108, Addison, 214-991-8824. Moderate.

Cafe Capri. 1507 Addison Rd., Addison, 214-960-8686. Moderate.

Calluaud’s. 5405 W. Lovers Ln., 214-352-1997. Moderate.

Chez Gerard. 4444 McKinney Ave., 214-522-6865. Moderate.

Ewald’s. Stoneleigh Hotel, 2927 Maple Ave., 214-871-2523. Moderate.

The French Room. Adolphus Hotel, 1321 Commerce St., 214-742-8200. Expensive.

The Green Boom. 2715 Elm St., 214-748-7666. Moderate.

Hotel St. Germain. 2516 Maple Ave., 214-871-2516. Expensive.

Juniper. 2917 Fairmount, 214-855-0700. Moderate

L’Ancestral. 4514 Travis St., 214-528-1081. Moderate.

Monte Carlo. Grand Kempinski Hotel, 15201 Dallas Pkwy., Addison, 214-386-6000. Expensive.

The Riviera. 7709 Inwood Rd., 214-351-0094. Expensive.

St. Martin’s Wine Bistro. 1020 Greenville Ave., 214-826-0940. Moderate.

Tony’s Wine Warehouse And Bistro. 2904 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-520-WINE. Moderate.

Watel’s.1923 McKinney Ave., 214-720-0323. Moderate.



German

Kuby’s Sausage House. 6601 Snider Plaza, 214-363-2231. Inexpensive.

Hofstetter’s. 3840 W. Northwest Hwy., Ste. 400, 214-358-7660. Moderate.



Greek

Cafe Nelu. 56 Arapaho Village, Richardson, 214-235-5387. Moderate.

Goldfinger. 2905 Webb Chapel Ext., 214-350-6983. Moderate.

Greek Isles. 3309 N. Centrai Expwy., Plano, 214-423-7778. Moderate.

Kostas Cafe. 4914 Greenville Ave., 214-987-3225; 4621 W. Park Blvd., Piano, 214-596-8424. Inexpensive.



Homecooking

Mecca Restaurant. This vintage coffeehouse might have been lifted, unchanged, out of Mayberry, U.S.A.. complete with Aunt Bea running the kitchen. The best foods here are the ones that Andy Griffith himself might have enjoyed, like hen and dumplings washed down with a glass of cold buttermilk. Breakfasts are especially good, with plate-sized pancakes, thick ham steaks, and shredded hash browns. Lunch is a bargain: full meals that include a choice of three side dishes (like crisp salads, homemade skin-on mashed potatoes, or canned-type overcooked vegetables) range from around $6-$8. Chicken-fried chicken is cooked to a juicy crunch, and the pies are homemade and worth every calorie. 10422 Harry Hines Blvd., 214-352-0051. Inexpensive.

Bubba’s. 6617 Hillcrest Rd., 214-373-6527. Inexpensive.

Celebration. 4503 W. Lovers in., 214-351-5681. Inexpensive.

Dumplin’s. 209 Main St., Garland, 214-494-0856. Inexpensive.

Gennie’s Bishop Grill. 321 N. Bishop, 214-946-1752. Inexpensive.

Gigi’s. 415 W. Ledbetter Dr., 214-699-0944. Inexpensive.

Good Eats Cafe. 3888 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-522-3287; 6950 Greenville Ave., 214-691-3287; 702 Ross Ave., 214-744-3287; 14905 Midway Rd., Ste. 102, Addison, 214-392-3287; 3516 W. Airport Fwy., Irving, 214-313-0803; 1101 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-516-3287; 5812 I-35 North, Denton, 817-387-3500; 1400 Airport Fwy., Bedford. 817-540-3287; 1235 William D. Tate, Grapevine, 817-329-3287. Inexpensive.

Highland Park Pharmacy. 3229 Knox St., 214-521-2126. Inexpensive.

Hubbard’s Cubbard. 614 W. Main St., Garland. 214-276-4179. Inexpensive.

Mania’s Daughter’s Diner. 2014 Irving Blvd., 214-742-8646; 2610 Royal Ln., 214-241-8646; 211 N. Record St., 214-741-6262. Inexpensive.

Mama Jo’s. 1615 N. Hampton Rd., DeSoto, 214-283-9498. Inexpensive.

Original Market Diner. 4434 Harry Hines Blvd., 214-521-0992. Inexpensive.

Sweet Georgia Brown. 2840 E. Ledbetter Dr., 214-375-2020. Inexpensive.



Indian

Anand Bhavan Vegetarian Restaurant. 115 Spring Valley Village, Richardson, 214-783-4353. Inexpensive.

Bombay Cricket Club. 2508 Maple Ave., 214-871-1333. Moderate.

Chandi Chowk. 1927 E. Belt Line Rd., Ste. 152, Carroll ton, 214-416-0273. Inexpensive.

India Palace. 12817 Preston Rd., Ste. 105, 214-392-0190. Inexpensive to moderate.

Kebab-N-Kurry. 401 N. Central Expwy., Richardson, 214-231-5556. Moderate.

Shalimar. 35 Richardson Heights Village, Richardson, 214-437-2858. Inexpensive.

Taj Mahal. 9100 N. Central Expwy., 214-692-0535. Moderate.



Irish

Tipperary Inn. It’s pints of the good black Guiness you’ll be hoistin’ here, not to mention the sainted Fullers ESB and dozens of other brews by the gass and bottle. But the food’s more than an afterthought at this cavernous Irish joint that moved east from Grennville Avenue a few years ago and settled down with a comfortable sigh into the old Genaro’s spot. There’s earthy beef stew (again, kissed by the frothy lips of Guinness), smoked salmon, and high-piled sandwiches. The owners are true Irish, and this is Ground Zero for St. Pat’s Day activities. May the devil get stuck with your tab. 5815 Live Oak St., 214-823-7167. Inexpensive.



George Wesby’s Pub. 2713 Commerce St, 214-742-8313. Inexpensive.



Italian

Al Dente Cafe. 1920 Greenville Ave., 214-821-6055. Moderate.

Caffe Paparazzi. Warm service sets the scene here, along with superior Northern Italian dishes: Thin-shaved carpaccio comes to you chilled and flavor-splashed with vinaigrette; cremadi funghi is a perfect smooth summer evening soup; spaghetti put-tanesca strikes exactly the right hearty note with its rich sauce of olives, capers, onions, and tomato. 8989 Forest Ln., 214-644-1323. Moderate.

Campisi’s Egyptian Restaurant. Walking off the street into Campisi’s is like stepping directly from Dallas into Queens. As our slow but friendly waitress informed us, Campisi’s was one of the first places in Dallas people could get real pizza. Today, after countless years of service, Campisi’s still serves up one of the best good old-fashioned pizzas in the Metroplex; Italian sausage and mushroom works tor us. The ravioli and lasagne are good, Coo, but be sure not to miss the Italian crab claws (swimming in garlic butter-heaven!) and Joe’s special toast. And remember-sit facing the door! 5610 East Mockingbird Ln., 214-827-0355. Moderate.

Flip’s Wine Bar And Trattoria. Original art on the walls, soul music in the background (but not too loud), and an eclectic, friendly waitstaff make Flip’s a great place to just hang out and sample the unusual imported beer and wine-but don’t miss the food. Flip’s Italian nachos are a must-we had Texas goat cheese and red bell peppers on ours. Order some bruschetta with the nachos and it could make a meal, but why stop there? The man-icotti will puts smiles on faces and songs in stomachs, so don’t fill up too much with the soup and salad (with an excellent oil and vinegar dressing) that come with any dinner order. 1520 Greenville Ave., 214-824-9944. Moderate.

Nero’s Italian. This venerable lower Greenville institution dishes up spicy Linguini Fra Diavolo, classic Caesar salads, and killer pizza reminiscent of New- York’s Little Italy. Skip the bland novelty of “pink” garlic bread; instead, for a real taste of “Noo Yawk,” try slathering fresh bread with appetizers of roasted garlic or sautéed spinach and wash it all down with a big Chianti. Huge veal chops are distinctive, hut stick with pasta and pizza for a most memorable evening. Recent purchase by Dallas-based Momo’s Italian won’t affect campy Rococo ambience or attitudinally challenged (yet efficient) waitstaff. Menu changes every six months. 2104 Greenville at Prospect, 214-826-6376. Moderate.

Pomodoro’s. Pomodoro’s offers up fresh, delectable Italian pastas, fritattas, veal, and fish in a Napa Valley-esque setting just north of downtown. Go light (and cheap) with minestrone, complimentary fresh bread with sautéed tomatoes, and a Chianti Classico, or belly up to spicy Penne Arrabiata or Linguine Verde con Popla di Granchio (spinach linguine with crabmeat). Appetizers shine, especially the silky Carpaccio Pomodoro and bountiful Calamaretti. Service is spunkily efficient. Weekday luncheon tip: Arrive early, blow off the casual, din-laden interior for an alfresco front fable, and hoist your wineglass as the constant parade of sweaty, exhibitionist downtown Y joggers pass by. 2520 Cedar Springs, 214-871-1924. Moderate.

Prego Pasta House. We’ve always thought-and please, Don Prego, take this as a compliment- that if Dallas really had any old wise-guy mafia types, they’d gather in this dark den for no-nonsense spaghetti dishes like shrimp scampi and linguine with clam sauce, chicken piccata, and other hearty fare like Tony (“the Bull”) Braga’s mamma used to make before Tony wound up sleeping with the fishes. But don’t worry-those bulges under the jackets here are just the full tummies of satisfied diners. 4930 Greenville Ave., 214-363-9204. Moderate.

311 Lombardi’s. 311 N. Market St., 214-747-0322. Moderate.

Adriatica. 2574 Walnut Hill Ln., 214-314-1513. Moderate.

Al Dente Cafe. 1920 Greenville Ave., 214-821-6054. Inexpensive.

Alfredo’s Trattoria. 5404 Lemmon Ave., 214-526-3331. Moderate.

Alfonso’s. 718 N. Bucknet Blvd., 214-327-7777. Inexpensive.

Alessio’s. 4117 Lomo Alto Dr., 214-521-3585. Expensive.

Arcodoro. 2520 Cedar Springs Rd., 214-871-1924. Inexpensive.

Bugatti Ristorante. 3802 W. Northwest Hwy., 214-350-2470. Moderate.

Cafe Cipriani. 220 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, 214-869-0713. Moderate.

Capriccio. 3005 RouthSt., 214-871-2004. Moderate.

Carelli’s Ristorante. 12219 Coit Rd., 214-386-7931. Moderate.

Carmine’s Pizzeria. 5365 Spring Valley Rd., 214-404-8110. Inexpensive.

Fausto’s Oven. Hyatt Regency Hotel, 300 Reunion Blvd., 214-651-1234. Moderate.

Ferrari’s Villa. 14831 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-980-9898. Moderate. II Sorrento. 8616 Turtle Creek Blvd., 214-352-8759. Expensive.

In The Red. 2825 Commerce St., 214-761-1958. Moderate.

The Italian Oven. 5500 Greenville Ave., Ste. 503, 214-987-4002; 14902 Preston Rd., 214-458-6836; 1009 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-422-4399; 5142 Rufe Snow Dr., North Richland Hills, 817-788-5420. Inexpensive.

Mi Piaci. 14854 Montfort Dr., Addison, 214-934-8424. Moderate.

Momo’s Pasta. 2704 Elm St., 214-748-4222; 3312 Knox St., 214-521-3009; 5290 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-386-7373, Moderate.

Pasta Plus. 17194 Preston Rd., Ste. 150,214-713-7181; 225 Preston Royal East, 214-373-3999. Inexpensive.

Patrizio. 25 Highland Park Village, 214-522-7878; 1900 Preston Rd., Plano, 214-964-2200. Inexpensive.

Picasso’s Ristorante. 3948 Legacy Dr., Piano, 214-618-4143. Inexpensive to moderate.

Ristorante Savino. 2929 N. Henderson Ave., 214-826-7804. Moderate.

Rodolfo’s Italian & Seafood Restaurant. 5956 Royal Ln., 214-368-5039. Moderate.

Romano’s Macaroni Grill. 5858 W. Northwest Hwy., 214-265-0770; 4535 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-386-3831; 700 S. Hwy. 114, Grapevine, 817-481-1339; 1670 W. I-20, Arlington, 817-784-1197; 2019 E. I-30, Arlington, 817-261-6676. Moderate.

Ruggeri’s Ristorante. 2911 Routh St., 214-871-7377. Moderate.

Scalini’s. 2021 Abrams Rd., 214-821-8088. Inexpensive.

Sfuzzi. 2504 McKinney Ave, 214-871-2606; 15101 Addison Rd., Addison, 214-960-2606; 2408 Preston Rd., Piano, 214-964-0700. Moderate.

Terilli’s. 2815 Greenville Ave., 214-827-3993. Moderate.



Japanese

Mr. Sushi. Raw fish might sound like an anomaly in beef-happy Dallas, but Mr. Sushi could easily win converts from the boot-stompin’, guitar-pickin’ crowd. The menu’s enormous, complete with chicken teriyaki, shrimp tempura, and sukiyaki, but the action’s at the huge, U-shaped sushi bar. A 16-ounce lchiban beet provides the perfect accompaniment for the best of the sushi: tender halibut, smoothly rich salmon, and a lightly spicy tuna roll. Mr. Sushi needs just an hour’s notice to prepare the perfect picnic-kaiseki, a 12-course feast that beats fried chicken and potato salad any day. 4860 Belt Line Rd., Addison. 214-385-0168. Expensive.

Awaji. 4701 W. Park Blvd., Piano, 214-519-1688. Moderate.

Benihana. 2700 Park Central Pl., 214-387-4404. Expensive.

Fuji-Ya. 13050 Coit Rd., 214-690-8396. Inexpensive.

Kobe Steaks. 5000 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-934-8150. Moderate.

Nakamoto. 3309 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-881-0328. Moderate.

Royal Tokyo. 7525 Greenville Ave., 214-368-3304- Moderate.

Shogun of Japan. 5738 Cedar Springs Rd., 214-351-2281. Moderate.

Snow Mountain. 4609 W. Walnut St., Garland, 214-487-3544. Moderate.

Yamaguchi’s Bar & Sushi. 7713 Inwood Rd., 214-350-8660. Moderate.



Korean

Kobawoo. 3109 Inwood Rd., 214-351-6922. Inexpensive.

Woo Mee Oak. 10560 Walnut St., Garland, 214-272-9909. Inexpensive.



Mediterranean

Cafe Highland Park. Mix them together: a French bistro, an Italian trattoria, and a Mediterranean sidewalk cafe, and it spells Cafe Highland Park (formerly Highland Park Cafe). The atmosphere reeks of the relaxed restaurants of Europe, but the service is more polished here. Loaded with artichoke hearts, roasted peppers, and Kalamata olives, and garnished with a cheese-topped baguette slice, the Mediterranean salad awakens the tastebuds. Grilled salmon with its pungent roasted garlic sauce, is a winner; as is the sautéed veal with rich, meaty strips of mushrooms. Flavorful angel hair pasta and flawlessly cooked vegetables accompany both. Desserts are made in-house. 69 Highland Park Village, 214-521-7300. Moderate.

Adelmo’s Ristorante. 4537 Cole Ave., 214-559-0325. Moderate.

Avanti Ristorante. 2720 McKinney Ave., 214-871-4955. Moderate.

Bolero Grill. 5290 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-490-8686. Moderate.

Cafe Mediterranee. 5950-A Royal Ln., 214-692-7716. Moderate.

Mediterraneo. 18111 Preston Rd., 214-447-0066. Moderate.

Popolos Cafe. 707 Preston Royal Shopping Center, 214-692-5497. Moderate.

Rotisserie. Grand Kemapinski Hotel, 15201 Dallas Pkwy., Addison, 214-386-6000. Moderate.

Sambuca. 2618 Elm St., 214-744-0820; 15207 Addison Rd., Addison, 214-385-8455. Moderate.

Ziziki. 4514 Travis St., Ste. 122, 214-521-2233. Moderate.



Mexican

Casa Rosa Restaurante. Walking into the pink, softly lit interior of Casa Rosa is like walking into a dreamland-a dreamland of great food and excellent service. The hot, fresh, crispy tortilla chips and spicy salsa serve as the best appetiser to the mouth-watering entrees. Our favorites were the shrimp and goat cheese enchiladas and the grilled chicken with avacado relish, both served with rice and black beans to die for. At our polite and efficient waiter’s suggestion, we finished the whole thing oft with sizzling Mexican apple pie topped with cinnamon ice cream-scrumptious! 165 Inwood Village. 214-350-5227. Moderate.

Chuy’s. Fight the SMU and 20ish margarita crowd for an SRO spot in the indoor-outdoor Elvis-redux fountain patio retreat for a cheap evening thrill, but don’t sell the place short as a touristy pickup joint (just yet). Prodigious combos of New Mex and Tex-Mex cuisine, most prepared with fresh cilantro, lard-free refrieds, and a selection of sauces make this achingly hip Austin restaurant transplant authentically Dallas. Service is uniformly enthusiastic and friendly, so forgive the occasional delay; when the goods arrive, they’re large, hot, and ready. 4544 McKinney Ave., 214-559-2489. Moderate.

Javier’s Gourmet Mexicano. A Dallas institution, Javier’s boasts a well-trained waitstaff and a superlative kitchen that offers up consistently high-quality Mexico City cuisine in an enticingly romantic setting. Start by dipping chips into the warm, piquant green salsa, washed down with handmade margaritas, then opt for cart, fresh ceviche while you ponder: Barra de Navidad, enormous fresh shrimp, sautéed in diablo sauce (coffee, orange juice, tomato), or delicate Snapper Mojo de Ajo in garlic and lime, or mouthwatering Filete con Champinones (steak with mushrooms and brandy)? Decisions, decisions. With 22 killer entrees (not including specials), ambiance, and a great bar, does the place have a downside? Frankly, no, but we promise to keep looking. 4912 Cole Ave., 521-4211. Moderate.

Matt’s Rancho Martinez. A recent visit to this crowded, clattering East Dallas spot went like a baseball game: hit, miss, hit, miss, etc. The chips and zesty queso made sterling starters, though we struck out with bland, chicken-choked tortilla soup and gummy, forgettable nachos. We rallied with grilled chicken flautas that deserve Hall of Fame status, but the score remained tied in the ninth. Then Mart’s famous chile rellenos swaggered to the plate-hefty peppers stuffed with beef, oozing Jack cheese and festooned with raisins and pecans. Wham! Home run! Next time, though, we’ll hope for a perfect game. 6312 La Vista. 823-5517. Inexpensive.

Monica Aca Y Alla. Never let it be said that Monica doesn’t like to mix things up. Pumpkin ravioli, red snapper enchiladas, and Mexican lasagna are just a sampling of her nuevo Latin cuisine prepared with a down-home flair. (And be sure to save room for a tangy slice of Key Lime margarita cheesecake-your taste buds will thank you. ) Located in artsy Deep Ellum, Monica’s cafe setting is part care-free South American, part trendy European. Sunday nights feature live music, with an eclectic crowd dancing to some of Dallas’ spiciest salsa, merengue, and samba rhythms. 2914 Main. 748-7140. Moderate.

Rosita’s Restaurant. Incendiary salsa, tortilla chips with a fine, oily sheen, and chicken nachos piled high with sour cream, tender chicken and fresh jalapenos say this place is jen-u-wine Tex Mex, so pass the butter and leave the cholesterol gauge at home. Try the lettuce-laden Puffed Tacos for a lighter treat. (Years ago, a D writer’s wife went into labor after scarring a plate of beef enchiladas; if that’s not a recommendation, I don’t know what is). Service is quick, unobtrusive, and not overly chatty, a welcome relief in this city full of waiters who want to be your pal. Imported cervezas served icy cold. Daily lunch specials for $3.25 are classic combos of enchiladas, tacos, and burritos; try the all-you-can-eat weekend buffet for true Mex-fest, 4906 Maple Ave., Dallas. 214-521-4741; 120 W. Airport Fwy., Irving. 214-445-4741 Inexpensive.

Amaya’s Grill. 161 Town Square, Lancaster, 214-227-8911. Inexpensive.

Avila’s. 4714 Maple Ave., 214-520-2700. Inexpensive.

Blue Goose Cantina. 2905 Greenville Ave., 214-823-6786. Inexpensive.

Blue Mesa. 5100 Belt Line, 214-934-0165. Inexpensive to moderate.

Caliente Mexican Grill. 6881 Greenville Ave., 214-369-8600. Inexpensive.

Cantina Laredo. 8121 Walnut Hill Ln., 214-987-9192; 4546 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-458-0962. Inexpensive to Moderate.

Casa Dominguez. 2408 Cedar Springs Rd., 214-871-9787. Inexpensive.

El Arroyo. 7402 Greenville Ave., 214-363-4464. Inexpensive.

Enchilada’s. 6526 E. Northwest Hwy., 214-691-1383; 7050 Greenville Ave., 214-363-8969; 901 Main St., 214-748-8585. Inexpensive.

Herrera Cafe. 4001 Maple Ave., 214-528-9644; 5427 Denton Dr., 214-630-2599; 2853 W. Illinois, 214-330-6426; 1905 N. Josey Ln., Carrollton. 214-242-4912. Inexpensive.

La Acapulquena. 2706 Samuell Blvd., 214-828-0509. Inexpensive.

La Popular. 4904 Columbia Ave.. 214-824-7617. Inexpensive.

La Suprema Totilleria. 7610 Military Pkwy., 214-388-1244. Inexpensive.

Los Vaqueras. 6615 Snider Plaza, 214-361-9885. Moderate.

Mariano’s. 5500 Greenville Ave., 214-691-3888; 2614 Majesty Dr., Arlington, 817-640-5118. Inexpensive.

Mario & Alberto’s. 435 Preston Valley Shopping Center, 214-980-7296. Moderate.

Martinez Cafe. 1900 Preston Rd., Plano, 214-964-7898. Inexpensive.

Martin’s Cocina. 7726 Ferguson Rd., 214-319-8834. Inexpensive.

Mattito’s Cafe Mexicano. 4311 Oak Lawn Ave., Ste. 101, 214-526-8181. Inexpensive to moderate.

Mia’s. 4322 Lemmon Ave., 214-526-1020. Inexpensive.

Mi Casa. 8301 Westchester Dr., 214-890-9939; 14920 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-239-4664. Inexpensive.

Mi Cocina. 11661 Preston Rd., Ste. 138, 214-265-7704; 77 Highland Park Village, 214-521-6426; 18352 Dallas Pkwy., 214-250-6426; 7201 Skillman St., 214-503-6426. Moderate.

Moctezuma’s. 2847 N. Henderson Ave., 827-1114. Inexpensive to moderate.

Ojeda’s. 2109 N. Hampton Rd., DeSoto, 214-709-0005. Inexpensive.

Piano Tortilla Factory. 1009 E. 18th St., Piano, 214-423-6980. Inexpensive.

Polio Fiesta. 903 S. Hampton Rd., 214-942-6645. Inexpensive.

Rafa’s Cafe Mexicano. 5617 W. Lovers Ln., 214-157-2080. Inexpensive.

Raphael’s. 3701 McKinney Ave., 214-521-9640; 6782 Greenville Ave., 214-692-8431. Inexpensive.

Roca Blanca. 7324 Gaston Ave., 214-319-9776. Inexpensive.

Rodolfo’s Cafe. 2002 S. Edgefield Ave., 214-942-1211. Inexpensive.

Rosa’s. 3126 Grand Ave., 214-428-3118. Inexpensive.

Sol’s Taco Lounge. 2626 Commerce St., 214-651-SOLS. Inexpensive.

Tachito’s. 3210 W. Illinois Ave., 214-331-4600. Moderate.

Taqueria Tepatitlan. 428 S. Hampton Rd., 214-943-5338. Inexpensive.

Tupinamba. 12801 Midway Rd., 214-243-2355. Inexpensive.

Uncle Julio’s. 4125 Lemmon Ave., 214-520-6620; 7557 Greenville Ave., 214-987-9900. Inexpensive to moderate.



Middle Eastern

Ali Baba. 1905 Greenville Ave., 214-823-8235. Inexpensive.

Basha. 2217 Greenville Ave., 214-824-7794. Moderate.

Little Chef. 3291 Independence Pkwy., Plano, 214-867-8684. Inexpensive.

Sinbad’s Palace. 9220 Skillman St., 214-340-4445. Inexpensive to Moderate.



Natural/Health

Dream Cafe. Dallas’ most accessible organic breakfast spot, Dream Cafe unapologetically offers ultra-hip ’90s style breakfasts, complete with killer joe, warming hearts of artsy advertising types, and button-down bankers alike. Very cool, hip power black bean and rice luncheons, al-fresco dinner-fests {Monday night specials include kid entertainment called Lollipopalooza) should delight fastidious health-conscious types. Young, eager waitstaff aims to please but sometimes tends to wander; feel free to offer direction. Ambitious menu occasionally lives up to glorious nouvelle descriptions (“Mystic Pasta, grilled chicken Brie, caramelized onions” and so forth); try daily specials for best bets. 2800 Routh St., 214-954-0486. Moderate.

Bless Your Heart. 12829 Preston Rd., 214-490-6006; 216 W. Campbell Rd., Richardson, 214-783-0786. Inexpensive.

Bluebonnet Cafe & Deli. Whole Foods Market. 2218 Greenville Ave., 214-828-0052. Inexpensive.

Cosmic Cup. 2912 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-6157. Inexpensive.

Eureka. 4011 Villanova, 214-369-7767. Inexpensive.

Kalachandji’s. 5430 Gurley St., 214-821-1048. Inexpensive.

Natura Cafe. 2909 McKinney Ave., 214-855-5483. Inexpensive to moderate.



New American

Aransas Pass. The patio at this Henderson Avenue eatery overlooks a charmingly landscaped side yard; year-round alfresco dining is made possible by a windowed canvas tent arrangement that can be completely or partially closed or rolled up and put away. Such creativity extends to the food: fresh com and roasted eggplant soup with piquant croutons, chopped tomato, scal-lions, and Parmesan shreds; steamed mussels bathed in berbed Chardonnay; and don’t forget the signature dessert-ask for Beeville Honey! 2912 North Henderson, 214-827-8650. Moderate.



650 North. Le Meridien Hotel, 650 N. Pearl St., 214-979-9000. Expensive.

Accolades. 19009 Preston Rd., 214-713-7090. Moderate.

Anzu. 4620 McKinney Ave., 214-526-7398. Moderate.

Bay Tree Gril. Stouffer Hotel, 2222 Stemmons Fwy., 214-631-2222. Expensive.

Cafe Express. 4101 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-991-9444. Inexpensive.

Cafe D’Or. Omni Mandalay Hotel, 221 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, 214-556-0800. Expensive.

Cafe On The Green. Four Seasons Resort, 4150 MacArrhur Blvd., Irving, 214-717-0700. Moderate.

Chaplins This Is It Cafe. 1928 Greenville Ave., 214-823-3300. Moderate.

City Cafe. 5757 W. Lovers Ln., 214-351-2233. Moderate.

Dakota’s. 600 N. Akard St., 214-740-4001. Moderate.

Enigma. 2515 McKinney Ave., 214-953-1111. Expensive.

Enjolie. Omni Mandalay Hotel, 221 E. Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, 214-556-0800. Expensive.

Gaspar’s. 150 S. Denton Tap Rd., Coppell, 214-393-5152. Moderate.

Gaspar’s. 4345 McKinney Ave., Ste. 270, 214-528-5100. Moderate to expensive.

Gershwin’s Bar & Grill. 8442 Walnut Hill Ln., 214-373-7171-Moderate.

Going Gourmet. 4343 W. Northwest Hwy., 214-351-6773. Moderate.

Huntington’s. Westin Hotel Galleria, 13340 Pallas Pkwy., 214-851-2882. Expensive.

Landmark. Melrose Hotel, 3015 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-5151. Expensive.

Laurels. Sheraton Park Central, 12720 Merit Pkwy., 214-385-3000. Expensive.

The Mansion On Turtle Creek. 2S21 Turtle Creek Blvd., 214-559-2100. Expensive.

Nana Grill. Wyndham Anatole Hotel, 2201 Stemmons Fwy., 214-761-7479. Expensive.

No Place. 6310 La Vista Dr., 214-823-9077. Moderate.

Opus. 2301 Flow St., 214-670-3721. Moderate.

Parigi. 3311 Oak Lawn Ave., 214-521-0295. Moderate.

Piano Cafe. 1915 N. Central Expwy., Ste. 500, Piano, 214-516-0865. Moderate.

Quadrangle Grille. 2800 Routh St., 214-979-9022. Inexpensive to moderate.

Tillman’s Corner. 324 W. Seventh St., 214-942-0988. Moderate.

St. Pete’s Dancing Martin. 2730 Commerce St., 214-698-1511. Inexpensive.

Yellow. 2719 McKinney Ave., 214-871-1772. Moderate to expensive.

York St. 6047 Lewis St., 214-826-0968. Moderate.



Seafood

Aw Shucks. Picnic tables, self-service, rolls of paper towels on each table, and payment by the honor system characterize this tiny breath of sea air across from the Granada on Greenville Avenue. The shrimp cocktail is to die for, and we are great fans of the hot-as in heated-Cajun shrimp, nestled in their soft shells with the heads still on, sprinkled lightly with celery salt and cayenne. Another favorite is the Alaskan king crab, nearly as sumptuous as lobster. 3601 Greenville Ave., 214-821-9449. Inexpensive to moderate.

Cafe Pacific. This posh and dignified Highland Park Village legend has served a wide variety of fresh and saltwater seafood for 15 years. Warm wood paneling, striped fabric walls, a graceful curvilinear chandelier, and a large, perfectly tilted mirror create a sumptuous setting for Cafe Pacific’s refined, bejeweled, and faithful clientele. Breathtaking ceviche, divine crab meat cakes, seasonal specials make it hard to leave room for the beautiful desserts. 24 Highland Park Shopping Village, 214-526-1170. Moderate.

Daddy Jack’s. Daddy Jack Chaplin and Kenny Bowers are fun-loving guys-and that’s reflected in the laid-back ways and upbeat mood of their clientele. And the food’s good, too! We particularly enjoyed the mussels marinara in their vividly textured, garlicky tomato sauce and a special potato and lobster pancake appetizer. Daddy Jack’s is famous for its reasonably priced lobster, available with two meat-filled claws, or, at a reduced rate, with one. 1916 Greenville Ave., 826-4910. Moderate.

Newport’s. Entering Newport’s in the West End’s historic brewery building, with its tables set on semicircular rings leading toward a seemingly bottomless pit, seems at first like descending into Dante’s Inferno. But the food is heavenly. New England clam chowder was rich, creamy, and delicious. Mesquite grilled Maine lobster was so meaty, moist, succulent, and filled with coral or roe that we ate almost everything hut the gills. For dessert try the Kahlúa Nest, chocolate pasta swirled artfully around a scoop of Mexican vanilla ice cream. 703 McKinney Ave., 214-954-0220. Moderate.

S&D Oyster Company. While sitting inside the cool pale yellow and white airy interior of S&D Oyster Company, it’s hard to escape the notion that you ate sitting in a restaurant on the Gulf coast. The food is not as light as the atmosphere, however-the menu here consists of mostly fried fare. We suggest you skip the shrimp dip and go straight for the fresh oysters on the half shell. The menu does offer a few selections of broiled fish, but we recommend the fried oysters with trench fries and hush-puppies for a rare treat in these low-fat times. Finally, cleanse your palate with a refreshing piece of lemon pie. 2701 McKinney Ave., 214-880-0111. Moderate.

Banno’s Oyster Bar. 13020 Preston Rd., 214-991-2001. Inexpensive.

Dinger’s Cattish Cafe. 8989 Forest Ln., 214-235-3251. Inexpensive.

Duck Inn. 503 Main St., Lake Dallas, 817-497-2412. Inexpensive.

Fishmonger’s Restaurant. 1901 N. Central Expwy., Ste. 600, Piano, 214-423-3699. Inexpensive.

Galveston Island Seafood. 9901 Royal Ln., Ste. 102, 214-348-8844. Inexpensive to moderate.

Jaxx Cafe. 14925 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-458-7888. Moderate.

Lone Star Oyster Bar. 3707 Greenville Ave., 214-827-3013. Inexpensive.

Remington’s Seafood Grill. 4580 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-386-0122. Moderate.

Royal 88. 400 N. Greenville Ave., Ste. 11, Richardson, 214-907-8868. Moderate.

Sea Grill. 2205 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-509-5542. Moderate.

Seashells & Stuff. 9205 Skillman St., 214-348-3082. Inexpensive to moderate.

Yoli’s Seafood & Grill. 3827 Lemmon Ave., 214-521-9654; 9220 Skillman St., Ste. 124, 214-341-3533. Inexpensive.



Southwestern

Blue Mesa Grill. This popular testaurant “marries the flavors of Mexico and New Mexico,” and does both well. The understated decor, with white stucco walls, simply accented with brick, wood, and colorful primitive art, matches the pared-down, understated menu that delivers even more than it promises. The many sampler platters, whether of appetizers, desserts, or entrees, showcase the kitchen’s range, which even offers food for dieters. Guacamole, made tableside, can’t he beat, and anything smoked or grilled is outstanding. Skip dessert in favor of an icy blue margarita, and contemplate a visit for the renowned Sunday brunch or the made-to-order quesadilla happy hour. Village on the Parkway, 5100 Belt Line Rd., Addison. 214-

934-0165. Moderate.

Benton’s. Harvey Hotel, 4545 W. John Carpenter Fwy., Irving, 214-929-4500. Moderate.

Kokopelli. 9090 Skillman St., Ste. 158A, 214-503-0242. Moderate

Loma Luna Cafe. 8201 Preston Rd., 214-691-1552. Inexpensive.

Sam’s Cafe. 100 Crescent Court, Ste. 140,214-855-2233; 8411 Preston Rd., Ste. 112, 214-739-2288. Inexpensive to moderate.

Star Canyon. 3102 Oak Lawn Ave., Ste. 144, 214-520-7827. Expensive.

Via Real. 4020 N. MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 100, Irving, 214-255-0064. Moderate.



Spanish

Cafe Madrid. 4501 Travis St., Ste. 133, 214-528-1731. Inexpensive.



Steakhouses

Bob’s Steak & Chop House. Bob’s is a classic steak-bouse, complete with dark paneled walls, Sinatra crooning in the background, and a pot of fat pickles on each table. The Caesar is superb, with a nicely balanced, creamy dressing and lots of crunchy croutons, served on a chilled plate. The ribeye steaks are especially good, with tender, juicy meat and a properly crusted surface. Meals are served with a choice of potatoes and a wealth of vegetables, including an outstanding steamed, honey-brushed, whole carrot. The wines have been carefully chosen and are reasonably priced, whether by the bottle or glass, and the service is attentive while never fawning. 4300 Lemmon Avenue. 214-528-9446. Expensive.

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House. This is a “he-man” of a restaurant, complete with a bustling bar of regulars slappingeach other on the back. The wine list is huge, filled mainly with lots of expense account bottles, but bargains can be found among them. (The wines available by the glass seem to be a pitiful afterthought ). The menu is just what you’d expect, with lots of meat and side dishes, lobster, and a token fish of the day. The two prime cuts, a ribeye and a strip, are the best steaks on the menu, and they’re rich in flavor and perfectly cooked. Service is fast-paced unless you request otherwise. 5251 Spring Valley Rd., 214-490-9000. Expensive.

Butcher Shop Steak House. 808 Munger St., 214-720-1032. Moderate.

Chamberlain’s Prime Chop House. 5330 Belt Line Rd., Addison, 214-934-2467. Moderate to expensive.

Dunston’s Steak House. 5423 W. Lovers Ln., 214-352-8320; 3565 Forest Ln., 214-241-9204; 11817 E. Lake June Rd., 214-285-2879; 8526 Harry Hines Blvd., 214-637-3513. Inexpensive to moderate.

Laredo Grill. 601 E. Piano Pkwy., Plano, 214-422-6201. Inexpensive to moderate.

Lawry’s The Prime Rib. 3008 Maple Ave., 214-521-7777. Moderate to expensive.

Morton’s Of Chicago. 501 Elm St., 214-741-2277; 14831 Midway Rd., Addison, 214-233-5858. Expensive.

Outback Steakhouse. 9049 Vantage Point Dr., 214-783-0397; 3500 W. Airport Fwy., Irving, 214-399-1477; 1509 N. Central Expwy., Plano, 214-516-4100; 3903 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite, 214-686-0555; 2102 N. Collins St., Arlington, 817-265-9381. Inexpensive.

The Palm Restaurant. 701 Ross Ave., 214-698-0470. Moderate.

Paul’s Porterhouse. 10960 Composite Dr., 214-357-0279. Expensive.

Randy’s Steakhouse. 7210 Main St., Frisco, 214-335-3066. Moderate.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House. 5922 Cedar Springs Rd., 214-902-8080. Expensive.

Texas Land & Cattle Company. 17390 Preston Rd., 214-248-2424. Moderate.

Walt Garrison’s Rodeo Bar & Grill. Adolphus Hotel, 1321 Commerce St., 214-742-8200. Moderate.



Thai

Royal Thai. 5500 Greenville Ave., Ste. 802, 214-691-3555. Moderate.

Thai Taste. 3101 N. Fitzhugh Ave., 214-521-3513. Inexpensive.

Thai-Thai. 1731 Greenville Ave., 214-828-9795. Inexpensive.

Toy’s Cafe. 4422 Lemmon Ave., 214-528-7233. Inexpensive.



Vietnamese

Arc-En-Ciel. 3555 W. Walnut St., Garland, 214-272-2188. Inexpensive.



Tarrant County

Angelo’s. (Barbecue) 2533 White Settlement Rd., Fort Worth, 817-332-0357. Inexpensive.

Cafe Matthew. (Southwestern) 8251 Bedford-Euless Rd., North Richland Hills, 817-577-3463. Moderate.

Cacharel. (French/Continental) 2221 E. Lamar, Brookhollow Two, Arlington, 817-640-9981. Moderate.

Dorris House Cafe. (New American) 224 E. College St., Grapevine, 817-421-1181. Moderate.

Esparza’s Restaurante Mexicano. (Mexican) 124 E. Worth St.. Grapevine, 817-481-4668; 1212 William D. Tate, Grapevine, 817-481-4867. Inexpensive.

Joe T. Garcia’s. (Mexican) 2201 N. Commerce St., Fort Worth, 817-626-4356. Inexpensive.

Le Chardonnay. (French) 500 Crescent Court, Ste. 165, 214-922-4555; 2443 Forest Park Blvd., Fort Worth, 817-926-5622. Moderate.

Michaels. (Southwestern) 3413 W. Seventh St., Fort Worth, 817-877-3413. Moderate.

Saint-Emilion. (French/Continental) 3617 W. Seventh St., Fort Worth, 817-737-2781. Moderate.

Star Of Texas Grill. (Southwestern) Worthington Hotel, 200 Main St., Fort Worth, 817-870-1000. Moderate.