Summer is picnic season, so don’t let a small inconvenience like 105-degree weather stop you from enjoying a repast in your nearest park. Dallas and its surrounding areas are full of restaurants whose takeout options make for perfect alfresco dining. Buy yourself a portable mister and a wide-brimmed hat, wait until the sun goes down, or just embrace the sweat. Then grab your wicker basket and checkered blanket, and enjoy everything from the traditional (sandwiches) to the integral (wine).
Brie and Rosé at White Rock Lake
2639 Main St., Ste. 130. | 972-210-2102
In the heart of Deep Ellum, Postino slings bottles of wine to go, as well as charcuterie boards and a dozen bruschetta options to accompany them. Toppings include brie-apple-fig, artichoke spread, and piquillo pepper with goat cheese. Drive out to White Rock Lake with your bounty, and take pity on the runners as you polish off your Azul y Garanza.
Sunset Sushi on Turtle Creek
2817 Maple Ave. | 214-855-5454
Nothing hits the spot on a summer evening quite like fresh sushi. And if you’re going to splurge, you may as well order from the best. Uchi’s whole “Cool Tastings” menu makes for refreshing picnic fare. Think Japanese sea bream with Asian pear or bigeye tuna with Fuji apple. Round off the feast with your favorite sashimi, and don’t forget the cold sake.
Mediterranean Mezze in Lakeside Park
4270 Oak Lawn Ave. | 214-613-6425
At Sachet, you’ll find a long list of small plates and shareables to build an eclectic meal. Summery options include fava falafel with mint yogurt, salmon crudo with pomegranates and gooseberries, and fattoush salad with whipped feta, tomatoes, and cucumbers. If you dine in nearby Lakeside Park, ask for a side of lettuce to feed the ducks. (Bread is bad for them!)
Grinders for the Trail Grind
1868 Sylvan Ave. | 469-575-3663
For picnic purists, Shayna’s Place offers classic sammies served on your choice of bread. USA Today named Vinny’s Kitchen the No. 1 grinder in Rhode Island, the home of Shayna’s original location. It’s a classic Italian sub featuring prosciutto di Parma, salami, and capocollo. And it’s perfect to pack in your panniers for a ride along nearby Coombs Creek Trail.
Brisket Bánh Mì at Oak Creek Park
1501 S. Greenville Ave., Allen. | 469-675-3048
For a fun twist on a picnic basket staple, head to Saltlight Station Banh Mi & Pho in Allen for bánh mì with your choice of grilled pork, chicken, tofu, or brisket. Pair your sandwich with a Vietnamese iced coffee or fresh-squeezed lime juice sweetened with local honey. Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve—at 800 acres, the largest park in Plano—is a stone’s throw away.
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