2016 SMU
Dining
Guide
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3 ......................................................................................................................Doin’ food “Family Weekend” style 4 .....................................................................................................................................Best burgers on the block 6 ...................................................................................................................................................Knox-Henderson 7 .........................................................................................................................Brilliant Idea: Dessert comes first ........................................................................................................................................... Freebirds World Burrito 8 ..................................................................................... On the Go: Convenient fast food restaurants for students 9 ...................................................................................... “At a grocer near you”: Local markets for SMU Students ....................................................................................................................................... Old Chicago Pizza Kitchen 10 .......................................................................................................................Over the bridge to Trinity Groves 11 ...............................................................................................Late-night restaurants to cure midnight munchies ..................................................................................................................................................................... bbbop 12 ........................................................................................ Fight “freshman 15” with Dallas’ healthy restaurants 13 ................................................................................................................................................................ Caviar 14...........................................................................................................................Breaking Borders Tex-Mex style 16 ..................................................................................................................................................... Pollo Tropical
Dining Guide Staff Advertising Manager
Production Manager
Advertising Representatives
Business Assistant Scarlet Hardy
Stephanie Cham, Alexandra Acosta
Advertising Designers
Operations Manager
Background Art
Isabelle Carlin
Lauren Alexander, Bennett Gwynn Kevin Bucio
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS 1915 - 2015
2
Tate Dewey
Chief Copy Editor Alyssa Wentzel
Copy Editors
Candace Barnhill
Unsplash.com
ONLINE DAILY AT SMUDAILYCAMPUS.COM
SMU Campus Weekly
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Doin’ food “Family Weekend” style The Rustic 3656 Howell St. by Lili Johnston
“Kitchen, backyard, bar, and music” Those words quintessentially describe The Rustic flawlessly. The outdoor, picnic-tabled space, adorned with a stage for live music artists allows patrons to sip from their artisanal cocktails — the “Sangriarita” is a favorite, that comes adorned with a popsicle — or try an oomphed-up version of southern comfort classics, like brisket, burgers, or, to finish, banana pudding. On Sunday’s, The Rustic offers “Jam and Toast” brunch. Paid for by person and served family style, the spread features challah French toast infused with rosemary, Nashvillestyle hot chicken, avocado toast and much more. The Rustic features the comfort of your backyard or dining room, but with live music and a place where you don’t have to do the cooking.
Gloria’s
entrees from healthy grilled fish to cheese-covered enchiladas. This place is the perfect Tex-Mex spot for families because it has all you want from a Mexican restaurant without the typical wait on a weekend night. Even better, they have awesome happy hour deals, like $6 margaritas and sangria!
Blue Fish 3519 Greenville Ave by Jacquelyn Elias
Just minutes from campus, the Blue Fish on Greenville Ave. offers a world-class sushi experience. From your traditional Japanese entrees to one-of-a-kind specialty rolls, Blue Fish offers a variety of options that are sure to please any group. The Executive Sushi Chef Tian Lin has cooked in industry for over 30 years, providing him expertise to innovate with the dishes that he serves. Craving some tasty rolls on a budget? Bring friends for the restaurant’s daily happy hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for $5 food and $4 drinks.
3223 Lemmon Ave by Jenn D’Agostino
There is no such thing as too much Tex-Mex during any Dallas visit. If you want your family to enjoy your new favorite Texan cuisine in a fun ambiance perfect for families, Gloria’s is your spot. They have awesome queso and guacamole, perfect for family-style sharing, and all types of delicious
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Nobu 400 Crescent Ct. by Jenn D’Agostino
With most college students’ funds, a world renowned sushi restaurant is typically not in the weekly budget. But family weekend is the perfect opportunity to go
somewhere nice with your parents. Nobu is celebrity-status famous, started by Robert DeNiro and celebrity-chef Nobu Matsuhisa. The Dallas location does not fall short of amazing. With a chic ambiance and the best sushi on this side of the planet, your parents are sure to be impressed by your new trendy adult taste in restaurants. They have plenty of options for those who aren’t big raw fish fans too, like their most famous dish, the black cod in miso.
Kona Grill NorthPark Center 8687 N Central Expy. by Lisa Salinas
Kona Grill is the perfect combination between a restaurant and bar. This location offers a bar with an outdoor patio. From their sangria, to margaritas and Moscow mules, you’re bound to find the perfect drink here. Besides their great drinks, Kona Grill offers a great selection of food; a perfect combination between American and Asian dining. Although they are known for their wide variety of sushi rolls, Kona Grill also serves burgers, salads, flatbreads, sandwiches and much more — they even offer a glutenfree menu. This location is right around the corner from campus. So what are you waiting for? Head on over for an early lunch, dinner or late night drinks.
3
Best BURGERS on the block
4
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Fuddruckers
Twisted Root Burger
550 Greenville Ave.
2615 Commerce St.
by Lisa Salinas
by Reese Bobo
Known for serving the “world’s greatest hamburgers,” Fuddruckers offers the option of letting customers customize their own burgers with a produce bar. Whether you would like your burger well-done, medium, with or without onions, tomatoes, pickles, cheese or jalapenos, Fuddruckers has you covered! They also serve delicious shakes and salads. In addition to serving delicious burgers, this restaurant has an overall fun atmosphere; the tables are covered in comic strips. You’re sure to find a burger of your liking at Fuddruckers along with a good laugh.
Twisted Root is the burger place that has everything! In addition to the classic burger, they offer 13 other seasonal meat options (and one vegan), with exotic flavors ranging from ostrich to gator. Not looking for a burger? Get an order of “Treat yo self” fries, loaded with cheddar, ranch, jalapeños and bacon. You might also opt for lighter meals off their healthier menu, which features various salads. The main event at Twisted Root, however, might be their milkshakes. Classic hand-spun shakes come in a variety of both traditional and eccentric flavors, sure to please all. As if that wasn’t enough, those who are of age can get “adult shakes,” coming in sophisticated combinations such as banana and Bailey’s and creme de menthe and chocolate. If you’re looking for your new favorite burger place, Twisted Root is the place to be!
Burger House 6913 H illcrest Ave by Noah Bartos
Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Sad that Goff’s burned down? Perhaps you can console yourself at another great hole-in-the-wall burger joint just steps away from campus — Burger House. A Dallas classic with lots of history, Burger House has been serving up quality burgers and fries for decades. Their shakes are incredibly delicious and down-home simple. They have more than just burgers as well, with hot dogs and other unique offerings. Overall, Burger House is one of the best places to stop by for a good, comfort food meal of burgers, fries and a shake.
6030 Luther Ln . #100
Grub Burger Bar 4925 Greenville Ave #150
by Rebekah Bosler
If you’re looking for a unique burger joint with a lively atmosphere, Hopdoddy is the place to go. They offer 12 unique burger options from a classic beef burger with their signature “sassy sauce” to an ahi tuna burger, complete with honey wasabi, nori chips and pickled ginger. Of course, a great burger needs great fries to complement it, and Hopdoddy delivers with their famous truffle fries. While they are big enough to split, you just might find you want them all for yourself! Finish your meal off with one of their decadent milkshakes, with flavors ranging from Nutella and chocolate pretzel to red velvet cake.
by Lili Johnston
Rodeo Goat
Gourmet burgers. Milkshakes, even spiked options. Creative cocktails. Grub Burger Bar is a retro ’50s diner turned modern. From creatively concocted beef to salmon or chickpea, Grub covers options for all burger lovers. They also have salads and sandwiches for those not in the burger mood. In the shake department, they offer your handspun classics — like chocolate or vanilla, even Nutella — or “handcrafted” ones made with “extra love,” spun with toppings. The “Worms and Dirt” shake features Oreos and gummy worms. The “Birthday Cakefetti” shake is made with cake vodka and rainbow sprinkles.
1926 Market Center B lvd.
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
by Isabella Von Habsburg
Searching for a great burger place for lunch or dinner? Look no further. Rodeo Goat will blow you away. With their signature burgers and drinks, you’ll never want to leave. If you’re a vegetarian you don’t have to avoid them because they’ll substitute beef for either a veggie or quinoa patty. They have a happy hour from 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, so when you get off of work or classes you can Uber on down there with friends or by yourself, no one’s judging. Do yourself a favor and try the Nanny Goat burger. Pair it with one of their famous milkshakes and you won’t be sorry.
5
Knox-Henderson Victor Tangos 3001 N. H enderson Ave by Gabriella Bradley
Nothing beats tapas, and Victor Tangos is the premiere destination for the best tapas Dallas has to offer. Of course, no tapas is complete without drinks to match and Victor Tangos’ drink menu has it all. The Passionfruit Gimlet is fruity and light while the Tomar de los Muertos is for all tequila lovers. As tapas goes, you order five to six small dishes to pass around the table so you get a little bit of everything! Some of the highlights on the menu are the ahi tuna nachos or the roasted marrow bones & brisket with chimichurri and toast, but it is all fantastic so order a handful and try everything.
Sushi Axiom 2323 N. H enderson Ave by Gabriella Bradley
This restaurant is the best place for big groups of people — from birthdays to pre-formal dinners. Sushi Axiom features all of the classic sushi offerings plus some signature rolls. Not only is this a great place for big parties, but it also has a fantastic happy hour menu. Think $5 sake and $7 cocktails and $4-6 rolls everyday
6
from 3 - 7 p.m. If you’re looking for a cheap sushi fix, this is definitely the place for you!
Sprezza 4010 M aple Ave by Alexandra M. Acosta
Located on Maple Avenue in Uptown, Sprezza opened its doors in Dallas late April 2016. It is an Italian restaurant, with a “Roman tavern” concept from restaurateur, Julian Barsotti, who also owns Nonna and Carbone’s. As you walk through the doors of Sprezza, expect to see a clean and simple aesthetic along with beautiful architecture. The open kitchen also allows for customers to view their food being prepared. The menu features traditional, cool Italian foods that are unusual such as sputini — spaghetti and cheese stuffed inside a breaded and fried crust.
The Porch 2912 N H enderson Ave by Gabriella Bradley
Whether you are looking for lunch, dinner or a mid-day meal, The Porch is always the answer! This restaurant serves American-style selections and has an exceptional drink menu with a wide selection of local beers and wines and exciting cocktails. One
of The Porch’s popular appetizers is burrata and toast, which comes with a seasonal garnish they switch up every three months or so. From peach marmalade to pickled onions, the garnishes are always incredible. As far as entrees, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. My personal favorites are the buttermilk fried chicken cobb or the wood-grilled salmon with a side of the chilled beet salad with Texas goat cheese and walnuts.
Uchi 2817 M aple Ave by Alexandra M. Acosta
Executive chef and co-owner Tyson Cole from Austin, Texas, opened Uchi in May 2003. He began as a dishwasher and later became head sushi chef at Musashino, an Austin Japanese restaurant. After spending time in Japan broadening his knowledge, he opened Uchi’s first location in Austin, and later opened the Dallas location. The restaurant’s name, Uchi, means “house,” and Cole thought it to be a very welcoming title. Since its opening, Uchi has won a number of awards and has established itself with a cuisine described as “playfully multi-cultural.” It is a go-to for sushi lovers of all kinds.
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Brilliant idea:
Dessert
comes first! Emporium Pies 314 N. Bishop Ave by Stephanie Cham
photos by Sue Han
Emporium Pies is a little gem and a delight in the middle of the enchanting Bishop Arts District. Tiny, adorable and comfortable, it gives people a place to gather with their friends or study during finals week. The pies come in well-proportioned sizes and are absolutely delightful — some even describe it as “a slice of heaven.” You can also opt for a hot beverage or order ice cream alongside the pie. If you simply cannot get enough or just want to dine elsewhere, their cute to-go boxes will brighten your day as you walk out. If you ever look for an adventure or a “treat yourself ” day, this is the place to go.
BURRITOS, BOWLS, SALADS, TACOS, NACHOS, QUESADILLAS
Pony up, and grub down! Freebirds is a campus favorite with everything from queso & brownies to veggie & vegan friendly options.
DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIRDS APP FOR A FREE ENTRÉE * Earn points to redeem for more delicious Freebirds food, cool merch, and awesome experiences. Use the app to place your order and jump the line.
restrictions may apply. Valid only at participating Freebirds locations. By downloading this app
QUESO, FRESH SALSA, GUAC, FRESH BAKED DESSERTS, & MORE SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
7
On the go:
Convenient fast food restaurants for students In-N-Out Burger
Chick-Fil-A
7940 N Central Expy.
3300 Dyer St. #101
by Rebekah Bosler
by Jacquelyn Elias
In-N-Out does burgers right. Their menu is simple and the prices cannot be beat. They pride themselves on the quality of their food, with their burgers and fries made fresh, never frozen. Pro-tip: Venture off the traditional menu and order off the not so secret “secret menu.” Order your burger and fries animal-style. You can thank me later.
While providing fast-food speed, Chick-fil-A offers quality chicken and meals that any college student craves after a day in classes. The honey-kissed, breakfast Chick-n-Minis serve as an easy-to-eat start to the morning. Other favorites include freshly made lemonade, waffle fries, and, of course, the chicken sandwich. Don’t forget to grab a package of honey mustard or original Chick-fil-A sauce.
Chipotle Mexican Grill 2705 McKinney Ave by Jacquelyn Elias
Sonic 7071 Greenville Ave by Katie Butler
This popular lunch and dinner spot offers custom-made and quick burritos and bowls. Customers choose each item in their order, starting with their choice of chicken, steak or other forms of protein. The restaurant also offers a wide range of fillers such as rice, beans or fajita veggies. Finally customers can choose from fresh toppings such as fresh tomato salsa or roasted chili-corn salsa. A perfect side to any entree at Chipotle are the fresh guacamole and limeflavored tortilla chips.
Raising Cane’s 5030 Greenville Ave by Stephanie Cham
What’s not to love about this classic quick stop? With mouthwatering burgers, a myriad of hot dog options, the best breakfast burritos (shocking but true!) and their famous tots, this popular and cheap chain is worth the drive down Greenville Ave. And the best part? You don’t even have to get out of your car — the servers bring your food straight to you. Let’s not forget what makes Sonic famous; the drinks. Go during their happy hour for a slush, a Sonic Blast, or just a Coke with some flavor add-ins. Go for a Coke Zero with vanilla and cream — the possibilities are endless.
Braum’s 3602 Inwood Rd. by Alyssa Wentzel
Nicknamed “The Pony Express,” Raising Cane’s on Greenville Ave. is almost every SMU student’s favorite go-to, be it at the end of an adventurous night or at a gathering with friends for some stress relief. Stop by when you a nearby fix of their juicy chicken fingers or their freshly served crinklecut fries. Not a fan of fried food? No problem — try the fresh coleslaw or warm Texas Toast, both of which are favorites of Raising Cane’s fans.
8
From classic breakfast foods to mouth-watering burgers to irresistible ice cream, Braum’s has everything you could possibly crave. While the menu may look similar to a typical fast food restaurant, Braum’s prides itself in providing “home cookin’ without leaving home.” At the ice cream and soda fountain, not only can you enjoy your pick of ice cream treats, but you watch them make it in front of you! Of course, you can’t visit without getting a famous Braum’s limeade. There’s so much to taste and love at Braum’s, it’s impossible to try it all in one visit — but you’ll definitely come back for more.
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
“At a grocer near you” Local markets for SMU students Whole Foods 8190 Park Ln. #351 (2.2
mi from campus)
by Lili Johnston
By title, Whole Foods is a grocery store, but it’s also so much more. The grocery chain is known for its extensive offering of the healthiest of foods, along with those one would like to find if they were going grocery shopping. The store also has a sushi bar, prepared hot and cold food and salad bar, a coffee bar, a juice bar and integrates a Whole Body (their body care counterpart) inside this one location. As a bonus, the store offers events such as beer tastings and beauty events. They also provide an extensive seating area for eating, studying, or passing time. If you’re looking for a place to buy some snacks for your dorm room, but also grab a coffee and a muffin and do some homework, this is the place.
it is definitely walkable, especially for students on the south end of campus. Kroger is also the nearest location to SMU that stocks Halo Top Ice cream, the 240 calorie pints that have amassed quite a cult following.
Tom Thumb 7000 Snider Plaza (0.4
mi from campus)
by Noah Bartos
Tom Thumb is a great place to stop for groceries, flowers, cards, or frozen meals close to campus. Conveniently located in Snider Plaza, Tom Thumb is a great choice for groceries for those who have a car, although it may be a bit far away for students to walk — especially those located on the south end of campus. The store is compact and tight, but offers all of the grocery essentials at competitive prices.
Central Market
CVS
5750 E. Lovers Ln. (0.8
3012 Mockingbird Ln. (0.2
mi from campus)
mi from campus)
by Jacquelyn Elias
by Rebekah Bosler
Whether in the need for groceries or a pre-made dinner, the Central Market on Lovers Lane features fresh and healthy, gourmet products. To a new shopper, the aisles of unique products may seem overwhelming; however, the rows hide plenty of treasures such as organic, gluten-free or dairy-free products. To the non-cooking bunch, Central Market provides a wide range of pre-cooked meals in their chef ’s case, which are made daily. Central Market also has a sushi bar with all of the traditional rolls, as well as a handful of unique, specialty rolls.
Located right next to campus, CVS is a convenient, easy option for anyone looking to grab a quick snack. It may not be a full grocery store, but it stocks all of the essentials — from cereal, soup, ice cream and everything in between. One of the best things about this location is that it is open 24 hours, so you can satisfy your cravings anytime they strike.
Kroger 5665 E. Mockingbird Ln. (0.5
mi from campus)
by Rebekah Bosler
If you are looking for a basic grocery store to buy the essentials, definitely check out Kroger. It is has everything you need from your local supermarket, with low prices and a variety of fresh food. Located only half a mile from SMU,
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
SERIOUS CRAFT BREWS, SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD.™ Specialty Pizzas, 90 Craft Beers & Taproom Fare!
DALLAS 5319 E Mockingbird Lane • 214-821-5700 Central Expwy at Mockingbird Station • oldchicago.com
9
Over the bridge to
Trinity Groves Cake Bar
Kitchen LTO
3011 Gulden Ln. #117
3011 Gulden Ln. #108
by Jessye Bullock
by Noah Bartos
Known as the first bakery to grace the Trinity Groves neighborhood, this small shop came straight out of the kitchen of baker Tracy German. With over 16 different kinds of made from scratch layer cakes plus other sweet Southern goodies, this bakery will never disappoint. The must-try cakes are the menu are the ones that pay tribute to German’s Southern roots: key lime pie, hummingbird and neapolitan. Slices are just $4.50 with full cakes ranging up to $38, making this as affordable as it is delicious. Staying true to Southern hospitality, Cake Bar encourages customers to send in family recipes that if chosen, will be the cake of the month! So stop by and see what makes the South so sweet.
Kitchen LTO is a “permanent pop-up” restaurant which may be one of the most unique places to eat in all of Dallas. Every several months, this restaurant remakes itself with a renowned chef given free rein to come up with their own dishes and a top decorator or artist coming in to redo the interior space to match. The offerings are always top-notch, and the fact that they mix it up so often makes Kitchen LTO a perfect place to frequently check out. Currently Kitchen LTO is transitioning from its previous featured chef, who finished his stay on Sept. 3.
Saint Rocco’s 3011 Gulden Ln. #100
Society Bakery 3610 Greenville Ave by Isabella Von Habsburg
by Jessye Bullock
Masterminds Phil Romano and Jay Valley bring a little New York to Dallas in their authentic Italian restaurant Saint Rocco’s. Based off of Chef Valley’s mother’s recipes, the minute you dip into the Sicilian lasagna you will feel as though you too are a part of their family. With family in mind, this restaurant will satisfy any home-cooked meal cravings you may have and might even cure homesickness, if at least for the night. If you’re not looking to leave the dorm room, no worries this restaurant is on Postmates and Favor online ordering services. However, with a wine and cocktail list longer than its dinner menu, you will definitely want to get the full experience by going to the restaurant at least once. So grab a few of your friends and sit down for a gourmet family meal that will put all others to shame.
10
Craving something sweet? Head over to Society Bakery and you won’t be disappointed. You probably wouldn’t recognize it at night next to OT Tavern but in the light of day you’ll realize that you probably walk past it every Wednesday night. It was voted Top 10 Cupcakes by the Ellen DeGeneres Show, so if that doesn’t convince you, then I don’t know what will! If you’re not in the mood for something sweet, go solely for the delicious avocado toast. They also make gorgeous custom cakes and to top it off, they donate some of their profits to over 100 different charities over the year.
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Late-night restaurants to cure midnight munchies Café Brazil 6420 N Central Expy. by Jacquelyn Elias)
A night is not complete without a stop at Café Brazil. The anythingbut-fabulous small wooden tables and vinyl chairs match perfectly the cozy atmosphere of this restaurant. If the brightly colored paintings on the wall don’t make this place one of a kind, then surely its large array of food offered at any point of the day will do the trick. Café Brazil offers your typical breakfast finds such as pancakes that nearly fill the dinner-sized plates and many egg dishes. The menu also features several dinner entrees such as barbecue salmon or chicken fried steak. Not in the mood for food? It also offers unlimited refills on coffee.
Whataburger 6061 Greenville Ave by Katie Butler
Even though Whataburger is open all day, the hours between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. are definitely when this famous fast food place is the most popular. Known for their scrumptious “Honey
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Butter Chicken Biscuit” or a “HBCB” for short, this fast food mecca offers up the best late-night options, complete with both the breakfast and lunch/dinner menu available. Stop in for the HBCB, a biscuit topped with honey, butter, and chicken strips, or go for their crispy fries with some of their famous spicy ketchup. Basically, you can’t go wrong at Whataburger so go ahead and tell your Uber driver to make the extra stop, go through the drive-thru at 2 a.m., and treat yourself.
Zalat 2519 N Fitzhugh Ave by Jenn D’Agostino
What’s better late night food than a cheesy slice of pizza? Open until 4 a.m., Zalat is made for the late night pizza lover. Stop in on your way home from a night out to grab a slice and we guarantee your satisfaction. Zalat has a pretty extensive menu for a late-night pizza place, offering everything from simple margherita to Mexican-style “Elotes” pizza or the Hawaiianstyle “Pineapple Express” pizza. You really can’t go wrong with any pick, especially if you get their “srirancha” dipping sauce on the side, a house-made sauce made up of a genius mix of ranch and sriracha.
11
Fight “freshman 15” with Dallas’ healthy restaurants Nektar
True Food Kitchen
6712 Snider Plaza
8383 Preston Center Plaza #100
by Olivia Nguyen
by Lili Johnston
From acai bowls to cold-pressed juices to fresh smoothies, Nektar provides every healthy concoction you can imagine. The juice bar, located in Snider Plaza, is walking distance from campus and offers a variety of organic, nutrient-rich items perfect for a post-workout meal. Popular orders include the pitaya bowl — a bright pink super fruit drink incorporating banana, pineapple, coconut butter and water topped with granola, raw coconut flakes and banana slices; and the Tropical Cooler — a puree of spinach, kale, pineapple, banana, coconut butter and water. With vegan, gluten-free and agave-free options, Nektar makes healthy living easy and tasty.
True Food Kitchen is one of those healthy eateries that, at first glance, would scare many people away. But if you put one of their dishes in front of any skeptic, they would be amazed. The eatery infuses classic dishes like burgers, pizza, tacos, or lasagna into nutrient-rich dishes that nourish your body as much as they please your taste buds. And while they do have conventional food options, turned healthful, they also offer vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free versions. True Food Kitchen changes its menu seasonally, and also offers Sunday brunch. It is also conveniently located near campus in Preston Center Plaza.
Start
Salata
4814 Greenville Ave
2104 Greenville Ave
by Katie Butler
by Stephanie Cham
Want to eat healthy on the go? At Start, you don’t have to wait for your server to come take your order. Instead, this healthy fast-food option is perfect for when you’re running late for that meeting or just want to grab something on the way home from errands. With a breakfast and lunch/ dinner menu, this quick and healthy option has items ranging from stuffed sweet potatoes to quinoa salads to veggie-bean burgers. If you don’t want to go inside, visit the drive-through for a quick and healthy meal. Start makes fast-food a healthy option.
Some days, DIY salads at our wonderful dining halls just aren’t enough to satisfy the appetite or you just want to eat out, but can’t find a healthy and tasty option. Try Salata, where you can create your idea of a perfect salad at a bar with over 50 different food options along with a diverse array of dressings and sources of protein, such as several kinds of chicken or salmon. For those who simply cannot stand the idea of only eating decorated lettuce from a bowl, try a salad wrap, one of their fresh-baked cookies or beverages such as tea and lemonade.
12
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
13
Breaking borders Tex-Mex style
14
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
Bandito’s (Margaritas) 6615 Snider Plaza by Katie Butler
Even if you are a newcomer to Dallas, you’ve heard about SMU’s favorite Tex-Mex restaurant Bandito’s and their famously strong margaritas. Though they might not have as many flavor options as the other places, you can always count on only needing one Bandito’s marg before a big night out. Let’s not forget the best margarita —- the ever-popular skinny margarita. Known for its great taste and coming in at only 150 calories, Bandito’s makes drinking a margarita a less guilty experience. Add an “Ethyl” swirl to your marg for a fruity twist on the real thing.
Torchy’s Tacos (Queso) 5600 SMU Blvd. by Alyssa Wentzel
Think you’re not a Tex-Mex fan? Torchy’s Tacos is sure to change your mind. While everything on the menu is worthy of a five-star review, the queso is the showstopper — try it once and you’ll be addicted. Whether you want to drown your tacos in it or just eat it with chips, there’s no wrong way to enjoy the popular side. But, be sure to get your own order because you won’t want to share. Can’t get enough of it? Order the Trashy Trailer Park tacos (that come with queso) and also get a side order of queso — you’re welcome.
Mi Cocina (Date Night) 77 Highland Park Village by Riley Coven
Dallas, Texas is home to some of the most renowned Mexican food joints in the country. Among those tasty spots is Mi Cocina. Located in Highland Park’s best shopping center, Mi Cocina is the ultimate versatility spot. Complete with a mood-lit rooftop bar and servers eager to make your night the best possible, the restaurant can fit any need. Whether you’re looking for a date night with a special someone, or a more upbeat vibe for Family Weekend, the restaurant can be anything you need it to be.
monotonous, greasy taco dive, Velvet Taco offers a wide range of unique, globally inspired flavors — from Cuban pig to fried paneer to a Southern shrimp and grits taco — variety is not an issue at Velvet. Everything is made in house from scratch daily — even down to the tortillas. To top off its already fantastic menu, the margaritas are made with fresh fruits and sorbets. So, next time you’re ubering home with your friends take a detour to Velvet Taco. You definitely won’t regret it!
Mr. Mesero (Porch) 4444 McKinney Ave by Riley Coven
Mr. Mesero is one of the most fun restaurants in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The vibe can be whatever you make it. With delicious margaritas, the most underrated steak in the city, and plenty of classic Mexican dishes to go around, Mr. Mesero is an all time great in the Dallas Tex-Mex conversation. The waitstaff is not only cordial, but actively embraces your party and does everything to make sure your night is the best it can be, even if that means letting you make all of the song requests.
Fernando’s (Porch) 4514 Travis St. #201 by Lisa Salinas
Fernando’s is perfect for brunch, lunch and dinner. Enjoy mimosas with huevos rancheros on a late Sunday morning or the perfect ice cold margarita on a hot summer day for happy hour (Monday-Friday, 3 6:30 p.m.) Not only does Fernando’s serve great brunch and drinks, but they’re also known for their authentic Tex-Mex food, even describing themselves as being an “upscale Tex-Mex” restaurant. From their appetizers such as stuffed jalapenos, ceviche and shrimp cocktail to their main platters and delicious desserts such as sopapillas, you are bound to find a great meal here. Fernando’s is also a great place to host birthday dinners or events, as this location can take reservations for 20 people or more. The staff here is kind and the location offers a rooftop patio. So what are you waiting for? Get your Tex-Mex cravings met at one of the best Mexican cuisine restaurants in Dallas.
Velvet Taco (After dark) 3012 N Henderson Ave by Reese Bobo
Velvet Taco is a late-night must! Open until the early hours of the morning all week, it’s the perfect spot to grab some grub after a long night out. Straying away from the typical
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017
15
• FAMOUS CITRUS-MARINATED, FLAME-GRILLED CHICKEN • AUTHENTIC ISLAND FLAVORS • SEASONALLY-INSPIRED RECIPES 4622 Greenville Ave - Next to SMU - between University & SMU Blvd.
STUDENTS AND FACULTY GET 10% OFF ORDER WHEN THEY SHOW THEIR ID.
Cater
We also
• Cater a tropical meal for any sized gathering or event
IT’S QUICK & EASY: • DOWNLOAD OUR APP OR VISIT POLLOTROPICAL.COM • SURF ON OVER FOR PICKUP • SKIP THE LINES
• Build a Catering Package with Tropical Favorites like Classic Grilled Chicken, Mojo Roast Pork or a TropiChop® Buffet • Learn more at PolloTropical.com/Catering
POLLOTROPICAL.COM 16
SMU Dining Guide 2016-2017