Zest 2022 by Fort Worth Weekly

2022

YOUR GUIDE TO

EATS AND DRINKS

NO CELEBRITIES, JUST DAMN GOOD MEZCAL DRINK ILEGAL IN FORT WORTH:

EAT - DRINK - ENJOY

Visit these unique restaurants for food, drinks and a wonderful, flavorful experience.

ARCADIA COFFEE

MELT ICE CREAMS

BUFFALO BROS.

ISTANBUL GRILL

WATERS

YOLK

MI COCINA

P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO

RAZZOO’S CAJUN CAFE

REATA AT SUNDANCE SQUARE

STARBUCKS

HOYA KOREAN KITCHEN

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE

FLYING SAUCER

JAMBA JUICE

RISCKY’S BARBECUE

SIMPLY FONDUE

THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY

Customers of restaurants in Sundance Square receive FREE WEEKNIGHT & WEEKEND self-parking; plus, COMPLIMENTARY 2.5 Hours of WEEKDAY self-parking. Additionally, pay-for-use surface lot and valet parking is also available. For details, visit: https://sundancesquare.com/parking/ 2022 | ZEST: GUIDE TO EATS, DRINKS, AND SHOPPING

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Celebrating 20 years of service

BRUNCH LUNCH

DINNER DRINKS

WWW.RIOMAMBO.COM WWW.THERIMRESTAURANT.COM

aft

drat ea

Connect with us. 4

A cosmopolitan, contemporary and industrial blend E. Renfro Rd Burleson TX 817.720.7707

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NOW OPEN IN WATERSIDE

Located at Waterside at the intersection of Bryant Irvin Rd and Arborlawn Dr on the shores of the Trinity river and Trinity Trails

Welcome to Zest 2022

2 0 2 2

Spring is here! And with the pandemic at bay — knock on wood — it’s time to get back out there and cautiously enjoy bars, restaurants, roadside tacos, and more. But where? That’s where we come in! Welcome to ZEST, the Weekly’s 16th annual guide to eats, drinks, and shopping. This coffee-tablestyled piece can be kept as a reference throughout the year for where to eat, drink, shop and have fun. WITH thousands of places to choose from, we know how difficult it can be to decide. Each year, The Weekly provides our readers with one of the most comprehensive guides in North Texas. ZEST informs the community about all the best restaurants, gastro pubs, farmers markets, bars, and more...all in one fell swoop. And if you wear out your copy — we know you will — never fear. ZEST lives on FWWeekly.com in our magazine drop-down all year round. Enjoy! -Jennifer Bovee, Marketing Director

E AT • S H O P • D R I N K

STAFF Anthony Mariani, Editor Lee Newquist, Publisher Bob Niehoff, General Manager Ryan Burger, Art Director Jim Erickson, Circulation Director Edward Brown, Staff Writer Emmy Smith, Proofreader Michael Newquist, Regional Sales Director Jennifer Bovee, Marketing Director Stacey Hammons, Senior Account Executive Jessica Kirksey, Account Executive Julie Strehl, Account Executive Tony Diaz, Account Executive Wyatt Newquist, Digital Coordinator Clintastic, Brand Ambassador

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Eats Listings Eats Feature Food Trucks Drinks Feature Shopping Guide

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2022 | ZEST: GUIDE TO EATS, DRINKS, AND SHOPPING

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| ZEST: GUIDE TO EATS, DRINKS, AND SHOPPING | 2022

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The Zest List Here is a handy directory of the eats and drinks businesses that participated in Zest 2022, plus some food and booze events you may want to attend this spring. Enjoy!

EATS & DRINKS Acre Distilling Co. 1309 Calhoun St. Fort Worth | 817-632-7722 AcreDistilling.com Acre Distilling Co. is a nationally-acclaimed, award-winning brewery. From whiskey to cordials, they have it all. Not only do they host brewery tours but each week you can grab a seat for the Tour + Tasting events in the upstairs Hell’s Half Acre Bar. Schedule your visit today! The Bearded Lady 300 S Main St, Fort Worth TheBeardedLadyFW.SquareSpace.com 817-349-9832 This tavern located in South Main Village provides scratch-made pub-style food,

wine, cocktails, 25 rotating taps of craft beers, plus a huge selection of canned and bottled beers from all over. They offer a full bar with spirits/liquor, craft cocktails, and wine by the glass or bottle. The kitchen serves homemade dishes sourced from local producers bringing you the freshest and highest quality items. Big Kat Burgers NEW: 200 Bryan Av, Fort Worth BigKatBurgers.com | 903-363-5723 Big Kat Burgers is a food truck (now with a permanent location) that serves the North Texas area. The burgers are made fresh by hand and are 100% all-beef. The sides are fresh — never frozen — and are made to order. Billy Bob’s Texas’ Honky Tonk Kitchen BillyBobsTexas.com/About/Honky-Tonk-Kitchen 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth | 817-624-7117 Whether you’re headed to a show at Billy Bob’s Texas or not, head there sometime soon and have dinner at the Honky Tonk Kitchen. With Chef Alex Walters’ specialities in barbecue and steak, their menu will not disappoint. Blue Zones Project 1300 Summit Av, Ste 750, Fort Worth FortWorth.BlueZonesProject.com | 817-869-0900 Blue Zones Project is a collaborative effort to help improve the well-being of all people in Fort Worth. By taking an

environmental approach to well-being improvement, Blue Zones has an opportunity to create real change in our community –– the kind of change that sparks people’s deepest desires to live well while giving them the tools to do so. Check out all the restaurants that have been approved along with other businesses that have gotten in involved in one way or another and keep an eye out for cool events. The Cajun Market & Cafe 5409 Colleyville Blvd, Colleyville TheCajunMarketCafe.com | 817-527-2175 Can’t get home to the Bayou? Then get The Cajun Market and Cafe in Colleyville for delicious, home-cooked Cajun specialties, fresh, wild-caught and boiled seafood, and Cajun specialty meats brought in from Cajun Country. They also have groceries, Cajun cooking tips, tricks, and knowledge to help you bring the full Cajun experience home. Cattlemen’s Steak House 2458 N Main St, Fort Worth CattlemensSteakhouse.com | 817-624-3945 Cattlemen’s is like the John Wayne of steak houses. It’s uncomplicated, good, and unflinchingly authentic. The lunches come with a dinner salad and your choice of potato style. Make sure to try the superior chicken-fried steak with tender beef and a crispy batter.

Cowtown Brewing Company 1301 E Belknap St, Fort Worth CowtownBrewCo.com | 817-489-5800 Craft beer and smoked meats developed and perfected on-site just minutes from Sundance Square in downtown Fort Worth. Guests can enjoy their libations and succulent barbecue in the air-conditioned taproom or on the expansive outdoor deck amid lively music and a family-friendly atmosphere. Open 11am to 1pm Wednesday and Thursday, 11am to 12am Friday and Saturday, and 11am to 8pm on Sunday. Electric Starship Arcade 5620 Denton Hwy, Haltom City ElectricStarshipArcade.com | 817-479-6366 A real 80’s and early 90’s video arcade experience, nestled in the heart of Haltom City! $10 at the door gives kids & adults alike, unlimited play so need for tokens or quarters! Hotdogs, Nachos and Popcorn are made fresh, daily. Plus they have a great selection of Craft and Local Beers & Hard Cider for the adults playing hard to get the highest score at Galaga! Fat Daddy’s Sports & Spirits Café 781 W Debbie Ln, Mansfield FatDaddysLive.com | 817-704-7444 Fat Daddy’s is a great place to watch your favorite sports team, get a burger and fries, or dance the night away to live continued on page 8

Tuk Tuk Thai Thai Street Food

Lunch Special M–F 11am–2pm

BYOB Free Delivery Limited Area & Minimum $20 Food To Go & Catering 3431 W 7th St • Fort Worth, TX 76107

817.332.3339

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Eats

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music. Along with great appetizers, burgers, and bar bites, the menu includes a variety of fresh chef-made entrées, sandwiches, pizzas, wraps, tacos, specialty spuds, desserts, and more. The menus for brunch and dinner are available online. Fitzgerald’s 6115 Camp Bowie Blvd Ste 104, Fort Worth EatatFitz.com | 817-349-9245 Fitzgerald offers Gulf Coast-inspired seafood the way only Chef Ben Merritt can deliver. We offer locally source premium steaks, fresh from the boat gulf seafood, a superb wine list, and multiple dining options with southern hospitality that every guest yearns for. Fixture 401 W Magnolia Av, Fort Worth FixtureFW.com | 817-708-2663 Fixture serves new American cuisine with an eclectic twist. Casual. We take reservations but always leave room for our walk-in guests. We serve up New American cuisine with an eclectic twist, with vegan and vegetarian options. Located east of Hemphill on W. Magnolia in Fort Worth, Fixture serves lunch, dinner, and brunch, with craft cocktails, local craft beers, inside

or outside on our totally covered patio. Fort Brewery 2737 Tillar St, Fort Worth FortBrewery.com | 817-923-8000 Fort Brewery was founded in 2018 with the vision of bringing exceptional craft beer, great food, great wine, and fantastic live entertainment to our community. Fort Brewery is all about bringing people together in a fun, laid-back, and familyfriendly environment. Fort Brewery is all about the people, the passion, and the friendship that make our city great! Fred’s Texas Cafe North: 2730 Western Center, FW Coming Soon: Camp Bowie West FredsTexasCafe.com | 817-232-0111 Serving Fort Worth for 40 years, this FW institution continues to operate its North location with the same amazing burgers and southern hospitality. Recently, Fred’s Texas has announced that their new location will be opening this April on West Camp Bowie. The new Fred’s will have the same charm as the current location with more parking, an expanded bar, kitchen, and dining space. Plus, rumor has it (as of lately) that they will bring back their infamous brunch. Funky Picnic Brewery & Café 401 Bryan Av, Fort Worth FunkyPIcnicBrewery.com| 817-708-2739

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Funky Picnic is dishing out artisan sandwiches, pub-fare, house-made craft beers, and cocktails in the funky, industrial, earthy interior of our family-friendly brewpub in the South Main Village of Fort Worth. Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen 5733 Crowley Rd, Fort Worth GiovannisPastaNPizza.com| 817-551-3713 After 20 years as a Stockyards staple, Giovanni’s brought their traditional, Italian Homestyle Cooking to Crowley Road off I-20 in South Fort Worth not so long ago. The location may have changed but the fresh ingredients and family recipes have not. Come see Mamma and Papa Giovanni for an authentic Italian experience. Lunch specials daily start at $7.99. J&J Oyster Bar 612 University Dr, Fort Worth JJOysterBar.com | 817-367-9792 We are a local restaurant and bar serving crawfish (when in season), oysters, seafood and ice-cold beer. Wine is also available. Kincaid’s Hamburgers Six Tarrant County Locations KincaidsHamburgers.com Kincaid’s has a down-home, laid-back attitude while serving up the best hamburgers you’ll ever eat. Kincaid’s burgers are made from the very best USDA Choice chuck available. Top your burger with bacon or chili and add a side

of fried okra or onion rings. Kincaid’s deviled eggs are world famous, so don’t leave without throwing a couple of those down the hatch. Kintaro Ramen FW: 2801 W 7th St | 817-887-9013 ARL: 101 E Abram St | 817-538-5344 KintaroRamen.com Tastemaker’s Chef of the Year 2017, J. García, is at the helm at Kintaro Ramen in Fort Worth and Arlington. Winner of the award for Best Ramen in Fort Worth Weekly’s Best Of 2021. Maxine’s Cocktails 4020 Benbrook Rd, Fort Worth MaxinesCocktails.com | 817-420-9754 Along with daily drink specials, pool, and darts, Maxine’s Cocktails has Happy Hour every Monday to Friday from noon to 7pm. Most Fridays, we have karaoke with the Famous Dr Thamus’ Magical Karaoke Machine. Then on most Wednesdays, Bonnie & Clyde handle the karaoke. Whatever your sport, come enjoy a drink and watch your favorite teams play on our big-screen TVs. No Frills Grill & Sports Bar Multiple Locations | NoFrillsGrill.com No Frills has five locations dishing out fun for the whole family since 1990, with fast and friendly servers who make you feel at continued on page 10

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Eats

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home. The menu is loaded with burgers, chicken, seafood, and Tex-Mex. Watch the game on 100 HD TVs or play pool, Golden Tee, trivia, or Texas Hold ’Em. Free Wi-Fi and banquet rooms are available. The Post at River East 2925 Race St, Fort Worth ThePostAtRiverEast.com | 817-945-8890 The Post At River East is a neighborhood restaurant, intimate music venue, and event space serving casual dishes and drinks. Shaw’s Patio Bar & Grill 1051 W Magnolia Av, Fort Worth ShawsBurgers.com | 817-927-2118 For the best, most creative burgers and shakes in town, Shaw’s is the place. The Near Southside establishment offers halfpound Angus burgers loaded with flavor. Not only does Shaw’s offer specialty burgers and sides but the restaurant also serves up an assortment of juicy hot dogs, fresh salads and great sandwiches. While Shaw’s is a family establishment, it also has a full bar with great happy hour specials and two fabulous patios. Smokestack 1948 2836 Stanley Av, Fort Worth Facebook.com/Smokestack1948 Smokestack1948.com Come find your new favorite place for beer, craft cocktails, and wine. This indoor/outdoor bar and live music venue has a family-friendly play area and serves chef-driven pan pizza, sandwiches, salads, and desserts. Tuk Tuk Thai 3431 W 7th St, Fort Worth TukTukThaiFortWorth.com | 817-332-3339 Tuk Tuk Thai Is a family-run independent neighborhood restaurant offering authentic home-cooked Thai meals in a contemporary setting. This eatery is a great place to meet, eat, and socialize for lunch or dinner. Would you rather have your meal elsewhere? Tuk Tuk offers free delivery for orders over $20 or more in limited areas. Wild Acre Camp Bowie 6473 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth WildAcreBrewing.com | 817-353-2074 Wild Acre is an independent Fort Worth craft brewery and scratch deli restaurant inspired to serve a broad and unique range of quality beers, delicious gourmet sandwiches, and more. Patio seating, beer to go, and a Weekly featured sandwich special, curated and prepared by Chef David Hollister. Wishbone & Flynt 334 Bryan Av, Fort Worth WishboneAndFlynt.com | 817-332-3339 Wishbone & Flynt — Stefon Rishel’s new

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restaurant on the Near Southside — serves a seasonal menu of globallyinspired plates, alongside craft cocktails and an eclectic wine list. Yucatan Taco Stand 909 W Magnolia Av, Fort Worth TheYucatanGrill.com | 682-385-9395 Yucatan Tequila Bar & Grill is a Latininspired fast-casual restaurant with over 100 tequilas stocked in their full bar. Also, check out their award-winning quesadillas, nachos, and margaritas!

FOODIE FINDS & SHOPPING Central Market 4651 W Fwy, Fort Worth | 817-989-4700 1425 E Southlake Blvd, Southlake | 817-310-5600 CentralMarket.com Besides aisles and miles of the most exciting produce and packaged foods from around the world (including lots of local and organic products), Central Market has a full-service café, often features live music, and has one of the best cheese departments in the country –– along with a staggering buffet of chef-prepared food to go. Also new to the Fort Worth location, Curbside service is now available. You will be able to get all your favorites faster on those busy days when you don’t have time to stroll and just gotta roll! You don’t even have to get out of your car! To sign up and to receive a discount on initial orders visit the Central Market website. Cowtown Farmers Market 3821 Southwest Blvd CowtownMarket.com Visit them from 8am to noon every Saturday, rain or shine, plus Wednesday 8am to noon this spring and summer. Besides fruits and vegetables, vendors offer everything from breads, cheese, cookies, cakes, cut flowers, fried pies, jellies, and pickles, to meats including grass-fed beef, buffalo, pork, free range chickens, and eggs. There’s even dog food and treats for Fido! Green’s Produce & Plants 3001 W Arkansas Ln, Arlington GreensProduce.com | 817-274-2435 Spring is in the air, so It’s time to start planning your gardens, and Green’s can help. This farmers market/gift shop/ garden center has been a destination for more than 30 years and Is still familyowned and operated. Specializing in local seasonal fruits, vegetables, plants, and pottery, Green’s also makes custom gift baskets onsite with fresh fruits, canned jellies, and jalapeño peanut brittle. continued on page 12

cattlemen’s in Historic Stockyards District

Serving Prime Rib on Friday & Saturday Nights BBQ Ribs, Lobster, Chicken, Pasta, Calf Fries, Shoot ‘em up Shrimp and the great steaks that make us famous! Lunch Menu Until 4pm Daily Hours of Operation: Mon-Thu: 11am-10pm | Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm | Sun: noon-9pm

www.cattlemenssteakhouse.com

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ATE DAYS: FOOD & BOOZE EVENTS March 30th thru April 2nd

25 Weekly Rotating Taps & Craft Cocktails Canned & Bottled Beer From Across the Country

Right in the Heart of South Main Village Dine In or To Go

HOURS: Tues-Thurs 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-12am Sun 11am-10pm

Weekend Brunches with a Large, Dog-Friendly Patio

300 S. Main St. | 817-349-9832 | Facebook.com/TheBeardedLadyFortWorth

GIOVANNI’S I TA L I A N K I T C H E N

5733 crowley rd fort worth tx 76134 s t o r e h o ur s T u e s day - F r iday s at ur day & s u n day 4 pm t o 1 0 p m 11Am to 10pm Cl o se d M o n day

817.551.3713 GI OVANN I SFW.COM 12

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An Empty Plate in the Cafe Du Grand Boeuf 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth On various days/times thru Sat, Apr 2, see the Circle Theatre (817-877-3040) production of the play An Empty Plate in the Café Du Grand Boeuf by Michael Hollinger. “No menu is necessary at the world’s greatest restaurant in Paris. On a hot July night in 1961, we await the imminent arrival of Victor, the Café’s owner, and sole patron. But when “Monsieur” returns from the bullfights in Madrid, disheveled and morose, his wish is simple: to die of starvation at his own table. In an effort to thwart his attempt, his loyal staff prepares a sumptuous seven-course meal served on empty plates. Will they succeed in ultimately feeding his soul? Join us to find out!” Tickets are $27-$40 at CircleTheatre.com.

April 1st | 6:30pm-9pm

Fort Worth Food & Wine Fest 5000 Clearfork Main St, Fort Worth HeartoftheRanch(@HeartOfTheRanch1848) is this year’s location of the main event for the Fort Worth Food & Wine Festival 6:30pm-9pm Fri, Apr 1. Tickets are $125 per person at FWFWF.TicketSauce.com. Your ticket covers you on tastings from artisan producers of craft beers, wines, spirits, and specialty foods, plus bites from the best chefs and restaurateurs from all over the world. (Note: No one under the age of 21 is allowed to attend.)

April 9th | 3pm

BENDT Crawfish Boil 225 S Charles St, Lewisville The annual BENDT Crawfish Boil is back at 3pm Sat, Apr 9 at BENDT Distilling Co. (225 S Charles St, Lewisville, 214-814-0545). The distillery is open from 12pm-10pm, with the first boil from Chef Couillon served at 3pm and live music 4pm-7pm. There is no cost to attend, and no tickets/reservations are needed. The crawfish boils will be available at the current market cost TBD on the event day.

April 2nd | 6pm-9pm

Burger, Brews & Blues 5000 Clearfork Main St, Fort Worth As part of the Fort Worth Food & Wine Festival (@FortWorthFoodandWinFestival), Burger, Brews & Blues burger celebration is happening at Heart of the Ranch (@ HeartoftheRanch1848) 6pm-9pm Sat, Apr 2. Chefs will grill sliders, celebrity judges will choose a winner, and guests will select a fan favorite. Your $80 ticket at FWFWF. TicketSauce.com includes all-you-can-eat

burgers, drinks, and live music by a line-up of blues bands. No one under 21 years of age is permitted to attend. #DrinkResponsibly

Tuesdays | 6pm-8pm

Murf’s Trivia at JR Bentley’s 406 W Abram St, Arlington Looking for a trivia night in Arlington? Murf’s Trivia hosts one on Tuesdays at JR Bentley’s (406 W Abram St, 817-261-7351). Sign up is at 5pm, then its Triple Trivia time from 6pm to 8pm with three rounds including entertainment, nerd alert, and potluck. It’s always free to play, and there are prizes. With this being an English pub, you can get your fix of Bangers & Mash, Fish & Chips, or Shepherd’s Pie while you’re at it.

Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays

Brewery Spotlights & Pint Nights 13000 Trinity Blvd, Euless Things are quite busy at Brü City (817-5106485). This craft-beer bottle shop inside a convenience store also sells gas, fine wine, imported cigars, and Famous Joe’s Pizza, plus they do tasting events. You can grab pints inside, eat, shop, and (on Saturdays) play trivia, or, get a growler to go in the drive-thru. Some Wednesdays are Pint Nights, featuring beer from a different local brewery each time. Then, on some Fridays, it’s Brewery Spotlight Night with $1 off drafts all day and the brewery crews themselves are onsite at 5pm passing out free samples and swag. Keep an eye on their calendar at Facebook.com/BruCityTX.

Every Sat & Sun | 11am & 12pm

Drag-With-Me Drag Brunch 1000 Houston St, Fort Worth After six years hosting at different bars and clubs around town, My Oh My! Drag Shows now has its own home called The Sleeping Panther Bar & Entertainment Venue (1000 Houston St, 817-946-2295). Along with bingo, burlesque, and fantasy drag shows, the Drag-With-Me Drag Brunch is hosted every Sat-Sun at 11am and noon. All ages are welcomed at brunch shows. Tickets are $30 at MyOhMyTheShow.com and include your seat and brunch. Drinks are purchased separately at the full bar.

Second Sundays | 11am-4pm

Lola’s Local Farmers Market 2735 W 5th St, Fort Worth Along with its monthly Rock N Roll Rummage Sale, Lola’s Trailer Park (817759-9100) also hosts a local farmers market upon occasion. The first one of the year is on Sun, Mar 13, from 11am to 4pm. Purchase locally grown/produced food and fresh fruits and vegetables from more than 30 vendors and food trucks while enjoying live music. This family-/petfriendly event is free to attend.

EATING HEALTHY

NEVER TASTED

SO GOOD!

Fuel up with greener, cleaner plant-forward and Blue Zones-inspired menu items. Find a Blue Zones Project participating restaurant near you: Info.bluezonesproject.com/fwrestaurants

FOOD THAT

POWERS

YOU

Fuel up with greener, cleaner Blue Zones inspired meals!

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DFW find out why we’re ! t s e b e h t Where is YOUR ute

Food Truck?

ORDER ONLINE FOR IN-STORE PICKUP WWW.BIGKATBURGERS.COM NEW PERMANENT LOCATION AT 200 BRYAN AV IN NEAR SOUTHSIDE FWTX

903-363-5723 | 806-448-8810

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e a ts Zonk Burgers:

The Real Veggie Deal

Zonk Burgers is on a mission to serve the best veggie burgers from its new brick-and-mortar location in River East.

Courtesy Lan Rose PR

In 2019, Erin Hahn and Zachary Stacy set out to create the veggie burger joint of their dreams, inspired by the classic American burger stand and a burgeoning new wave of vegetable-focused cuisine. Operating out of the back of a 1994 Ford box truck, Zonk Food Truck served a small menu of handmade burgers and fries using original recipes and high quality ingredients. After a pandemic-induced break in 2020, Zonk Burger was reimagined as a tiny (791 square feet!) neighborhood veggie burger joint in

Courtesy Lan Rose PR

Promotional Feature

Fort Worth’s River East. In the short five months since the opening of the brick-and-mortar restaurant — the first plant-based fast-casual restaurant in Fort Worth — both vegans and non-vegans have quickly made Zonk Burger their local go-to spot for veggie burgers and desserts. Zonk is serving a small, solid menu of housemade veggie burgers and desserts from all natural and the highest quality ingredients. No labmade meats are served here! Currently, their food menu includes about 8 main items and several sides. Their Zonk Burger is made with a house-recipe chickpea and millet patty topped with lettuce, onions, pickles, and a special sauce. (The burger is available as a gluten free option as well.) There is also a Fried

Tofu Sandwich made with organic, extra-firm tofu that is marinated, breaded and deep fried, then topped with lettuce, pickles, and special sauce. Other popular items include salads, the Tofu Nuggets, and the Zonk Party Platters with seitan wings — in your choice of classic, habanero buffalo, barbecue or sweet-and-sour — with hand-cut, loaded fries topped with caramelized onions, smoky mushrooms, and special sauce. To go along with the food, they Zonk serves a canned Negroni-like mocktail called Casamara Club Leisure Soda, plus beers, ciders, and natural wines. Erin loves to bake and plans to expand more dessert options as they continue to grow.

You will typically find freshly made chocolate chip cookies or snickerdoodle cookies by the counter for something sweet. Guests can do take-out or they can dine-in for lunch or dinner indoors or or outside on the large, dog-friendly patio. (Look for the bright, cheerful yellow umbrellas!) Currently, they do not have delivery but have plans to add that service. Zonk party platters and catering are available and dine-in and take-out orders can be made online and scheduled ahead at ZonkBurger.com Zonk Burger is currently open 11am-9pm Thursday thru Monday at 2919 Race St (817-349-8646).

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So You Want to Buy a Food Truck?

Start With a Food Truck Business Plan Promotional Feature The United States Census Bureau’s website encouraged everyone to patronize food trucks during the pandemic because of both social distancing rules and, at the time, no indoor seating orders. Yet, even before the pandemic, television shows such as The Great Food Truck Race encouraged talented food lovers around the nation to consider becoming food truck overs.

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Courtesy Law District

e a ts

With its low-cost marketing strategies and the ability to literally get up and move anywhere the market demands, it is no wonder that the food truck business model is more popular than ever. With the overall ease of getting into the food truck business when compared with the start-up capital required to open a restaurant, starting a business in the food truck industry can seem deceptively simple. Starting a food truck business does not guarantee success. If you plan to expand your business, seek a loan, bring in investors, or simply want to stay one step ahead, you need a food truck business plan. Although a food truck business plan does not start your business, it helps you determine which actions are the right ones to take for your business both now and in the future. It’s much like a road map. A business plan is the most effective tool that a business owner like you has to determine all of your goals, consider the steps you must take to reach your goals, and then work toward those goals. This does not mean that once you create your food truck business plan

Food trucks are still all the rage. Want one?

that you must stick to exactly how it is written for the entirety of the business. Because this is not a legal document, you can change it as often as necessary so that it reflects the changes in your business as well as your business strategy. Business plans are extremely flexible. While a business plan might seem like an unnecessary formality because you simply want to do what you love, putting everything in writing will assist you in identifying any potential shortfalls from the outset. These potential problems do not mean that your food truck idea is doomed to failure. On the

contrary, knowing that there could be an issue means that you have the opportunity to rectify the matter in advance. You may have the ability to either mitigate the matter so that it isn’t as impactful or prevent it altogether. If you’re overwhelmed at the thought of writing a business plan for a food truck, it’s understandable. There are resources available to help on websites like LawDistrict.com. For instructions and information on writing a food truck business plan, go to LawDistrict.com/Articles/How-toWrite-a-Food-Truck-Business-Plan.

Come try our

! t i a b k shar

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THE EAGLE HAS LANDED

817-349-9387 WWW.EAGLESPOINTSAGINAW.COM Shops at Saginaw | 1029 N Saginaw Blvd Suite C6 Second Location Coming Soon to Burleson!

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Helping Save The Bees:

Toro Toro Launches Bee-Centric Viva Abejas Menu for Spring Promotional Feature Toro Toro is debuting Viva Abejas, which translates to “long live bees.” There will be exclusive menu items inspired by Pachamama (Mother Earth) with significance on the bees.

Courtesy of Endicott PR

Located in the Worthington Renaissance Hotel, Toro Toro Fort Worth (200 Main St Ste B, 817-9759895) — a Pan-Latin steakhouse — will feature a vibrant food and drink menu that incorporates plant-based and bee-centric ingredients, such as honey, bee pollen, and avocado in hopes to spread awareness on the importance of bees to our food system.

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Courtesy of Endicott PR

drinks

Toro Toro is debuting bee-centric drinks and dishes for spring.

“As an international restaurant group, it is our duty to protect and spread awareness of what vital role bees play as they are major pollinators of the agave plant and avocados,” said Chef Richard Sandoval. “I challenge everyone to participate in Viva Abejas with a visit to Toro Toro to try the menu and get inspired about how you can preserve their future.” Guests are invited to sip on an array of beverages that are not only showstopping, but refreshing such as The Honey Lavender Margarita uniquely made with Patrón Blanco tequila, Giffard crème de violette, triple sec, continued on page 21

Drinks

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fresh lime, and honey lavender simple, or Pachamama which includes mezcal, lavender and citrus-infused honey, and bee pollen.

About Toro Toro Toro Toro Pan-Latin Steakhouse & Lounge is rooted in a celebration of the vibrant flavors and convivial dining culture of Central and South America and offers guests a twist on the contemporary steakhouse experi-

Then, go on an unparalleled dining experience with a colorful starter of Bee Pollen Rainbow Quinoa, made with charred avocado, green pea puree, and Meyer lemon confit.

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To end on a sweet note, Avocado Panna Cotta will be the featured dessert. Freshly made with bee pollen, lavender-almond crumble, blood orange reduction, and honeycomb ice cream.

In addition, Richard Sandoval Hospitality proudly partnered with Help Save The Bees Foundation (@ Bee.an.Activist) to raise donations and pledge that every donor will be entered to win a $150 dining credit at one of his restaurants of their choice. To make a donation, go to RichardSandoval.com/Viva-Abeja.

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For the main course, savor the authentic tastes of Pan-Latin flavors with entrée dishes such as a Charred Crispy Tostada, which incorporates bee pollen, or Farro-Coconut Risotto crafted with acacia honey, farro-coconut, roasted heirloom carrot, mascarpone cheese, roasted veggie jus, and green sprouts.

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The Viva Abeja menu is available now thru Sun, Apr 24. Reservations are highly encouraged. Visit ToroToroFortWorth.com to book a table today.

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T he O rigina l FTW

Going on 50 years. Come see us! F o r t Wort h | 612 Un iversit y

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ence with Pan-Latin flavors. Inspired by Latin traditions and the art of cooking with fire, Toro Toro features open kitchens with wood-burning grills, meats presented and carved tableside, and family-style ceviches, tiraditos, and antojitos. There are elegant and spacious dining areas, bar seating, and a lounge, along with private and semi-private dining areas available upon request. Dinner is served daily, lunch Mon-Sat, Happy Hour Mon-Thu, and brunch on Sundays. The bar and lounge are also open daily.

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About Richard Sandoval Hospitality Richard Sandoval Hospitality is a leading restaurant group founded by Mexican-born chef/restaurateur Richard Sandoval. This internationally recognized contemporary Latin restaurant group successfully owns and operates 50 restaurants on 5 continents. US restaurant locations span 10 states and the District of Columbia – as well as internationally in 7 countries including Costa Rica, Mexico, Nevis, Qatar, Serbia, Turkey, and the UAE. For a complete list of restaurants and more information, please visit RichardSandoval.com.

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We have Gummies, Chocolate, and Coffee too!

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A Local Grocer That Helps You Save Money Promotional Feature Since 1954, Town Talk has focused on providing a place for the community to purchase groceries at extreme discount prices by buying and selling items from closeouts, insurance claims, and overruns. The deeply discounted prices not only appeal to people with limited budgets but also anyone that enjoys the hunt for bar-

Courtesy Instagram

shopping Let’s Talk About Town Talk:

Saturday is the best day for produce at Town Talk Foods.

gains or trying new gourmet items on the cheap. Groceries can get expensive. The goal at Town Talk is for all people to be able to afford healthy food to feed their families. “Eating fast food is cheap and easy. While the occasional fast food fix

is fine, we don’t want people to eat all their meals in the ‘Fast Food Way.’ Be a hero to yourself and your family by providing real food while saving money and having a great time!” While taking advantage of overstock items still in date is one thing,

Town Talk also sells expired food. While this may seem odd, it turns out that with the exception of poultry and dairy products, many groceries are still consumable long after the listed expiration or “sell-by” date. According to Today.com, a study from Harvard and the Natural Resources Defense Council finds that those “sell-by” dates are “confusing” and “misleading” and that food may still be good for weeks, months, even years past the date. This is especially true of canned goods. If you’re interested in produce, Saturday is the best day to go to Town Talk. The stores; warehouse areas are opened to the public. Work areas are set up with pallets and baskets of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other special buys. To find out what will be available, check the business’s Facebook page on Friday afternoon. (Each location has its own social page.) While Saturday is the day Town Talk, specifically stocks produce to continued on page 29

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Are You Road-Trip Ready?

With our handy pick-up and drop-off service, having your car in the shop could not be easier. Premium Land Rover & BMW Support • Repair • Maintenance • Sales • Consignment

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Named Best Mechanic 2017 by FWW (817) 731-3223 www.CowtownRover.com | 3958 Vickery Blvd, FWTX

Necessities like bottled water can be found at a discount at Town Talk.

Shopping

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Courtesy Instagram

sell, some suppliers may ship during the week. They always sell it when they get it, but there is no guaranteed stock. ”Our purchasing team actually goes out on Friday to find and buy produce from local suppliers and ensure we have the best selection possible on Saturday. Typically if we don’t have an item on Saturday, it’s because it wasn’t fresh or we couldn’t

Beer. Yes, sometimes you can even find deals on beer at Town Talk.

give you a deal you would expect from us.” For those beer drinkers who love to try different varieties, Town Talk can sometimes be your beer store. We recently stocked the Weekly office frig with Rahr & Sons Hazy Hefe and Oktoberfest at the low, low price of $3.99 per six-pack. Available brands vary from day-to-day, but it’s definitely worth a look. Stocking a business — or a bar bar? Check out the dry goods section. Along with coffee creamer, stirrers, and other office break room items, they also have a great selection of paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies. We’ve also spotted Best Maid pickle juice by the gallon. (If you haven’t had a Jameson with a “pickleback,” you’re missing out!) If you decide to give them a try and are dissatisfied with any item, no problem. Bring it back within 7 days with your receipt and they will issue a refund to your original pay type or store credit if you prefer. Along with the ever-popular Fort Worth location (121 N Beach St, 817-831-6136), Town Talk has also opened stores in Arlington (2320 S Collins St, 817-435-2300) and Weatherford (106 College Park Dr, 817-438-8099).

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It’s time to fire up the grill and char a new course from burgers and brats to delicious worlds of tomahawk steaks, lobster tails, Gulf shrimp, veggies, and juicy watermelon. (Yes, watermelon!) Venture outside the ordinary this spring and let our aisles inspire exciting new grilling adventures!

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