See also: The Food at Taste of Dallas 2011
Taste of Dallas takes over Fair Park this weekend, which means I'm coming up on a full year here in Dallas. Whoa. Last year, the list of participants seemed overwhelming. All I recognized at the time was La Madeleine and Jack Daniel's Saloon, and neither of those impressed me. Also it was a million degrees out, so I just stayed home and unpacked.
This year, I look a the list of participants and I see all sorts of names I recognize. And some of them even excite me. And it's only supposed to be in the low 90s this weekend.
I called some of the restaurants I've reviewed or tried during my first year in Dallas and asked them what they are serving this weekend. Here's what I'm doing when I hit Fair Park.
Selim's Doner Kebap House Kebap rocks. And these are the same guys that stood up a stand at Oktoberfest last year. Go with the lamb, ignore the chicken, and make sure you get yours with everything!
Baboush* was one of my favorite reviews, and the best restaurant in the West Village. I called these guys up and they're bringing a chicken tagine, and a saffron pastry shot. I bet you it's good.
Rock and Roll Tacos* will show up with elotes shooters and mini tostadas. I've hit up their truck twice now and think these guys have a good shot at pulling off two great dishes.
Mesa has me really fired up. They're offering their ceviche that's loaded with citrus, a variation of the enmolades that made our 100 faves and fried plantains served with cream cheese and honey.
Lockhart Smoke House participated in City of Ate's Iron Fork, with brisket paired with an insanely good hot sauce. I'm excited to see what they bring to the table this weekend.
The event runs three days, Friday from 4-11 p.m. Saturday from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tickets are $8 for general admission. Two additional events, Taste of the Town, which features Baboush, J Black's and more restaurants; and Taste Tavern, which features Peticolas and Jester King breweries and a whole lot of grocery store beer cost $20 and $28 respectively.
* Baboush and Rock and Roll Tacos are featured in the Observer's Taste of the Town event.
