Hall of fame

There are a few restaurants in the neighborhood we hope never, ever go away. The food is so good, the atmosphere so real, the people so nice, we need them forever. These are the restaurants so close to our hearts.

LOUIE’S is so popular, so crowded every night, they don’t feel the need to advertise. Put away that Visa debit card. It’s cash or American Express only, pal. Louie’s, it could be argued, is the only place that serves Dallas-style pizza. Which is to say, New York-style pizza made with Dallas water. At least, they do it best. Part of the draw here is the atmosphere. It’s like walking into a neighborhood tavern in some East Coast city. Even though the owners are Cubs fans, it’s a good place to watch the Rangers game over a can of Bud and a pepperoni pie. 1839 HENDERSON AT MONARCH, 214.826.0505.

ALLIGATOR CAFÉ claims to have the best Cajun food in Dallas. We have to agree. Even if you don’t like Cajun food, give this place a whirl. All their food is made from scratch with fresh ingredients, and it shows. From the alligator & crawfish gumbo to the boudin balls, everything on the menu is good. Plus, they have live music and a drive-through window. 4416

LIVE OAK AT CARROLL, 214.821.6900, EATGATOR.COM.

LAKEWOOD LANDING is not known for its food, although they serve some pretty high-quality pub grub. This “Upscale Dive” is known for its 1970s décor, grunge-band jukebox and friendly staff. It’s basically the best dive bar in the world. Just ask them. 5818 LIVE OAK AT LA VISTA, 214.823.2410, LAKEWOOD-LANDING.COM.

TERILLI’S is expected to reopen this month after a fire gutted the place last year. Its absence left a hole in the neighborhood dining and nightlife scene. We can’t wait to revisit the oven-roasted garlic appetizer and chicken Terilli on the restaurant’s new roof deck. 2815 GREENVILLE AT GOODWIN, 214.827.3993, TERILLIS.COM.

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“Dr. Miranda is an amazing dentist. Every time I talk with him I learn more about the latest techniques in dentistry. His experience, skill and passion for dentistry come through crystal clear. Complex cosmetic, implant and restorative dentistry requires a doctor like Dr. Miranda. I can recommend Dr. Miranda without reservation to anyone that wants world class dentistry.”

- Dr. Scott Rice, DDS Irvine, CA

Elotes is a Mexican street food, and in our neighborhood, it is sold from carts outside Mexican grocery stores. Even if the only Spanish phrase you ever learn is “un elote, por favor”, we urge you to try it at least once. The handy graphic below explains the makings of an elote. Usually, eloteros (yes, there is a Spanish word for a person who sells corn) scoop the hot, pre-cut corn kernels into the cup and layer the ingredients on top. Sometimes they cut the corn off the cob to order and mix the ingredients in a bin before it goes in the cup. Whether you like yours with a squeeze of lemon, a dash of lemon pepper or “sin chile”, an elotero will hook you up with a tasty snack.