Mot Hai Ba

Vietnamese tradition meets modern, seasonal inspirations at Mot Hai Ba, a neighborhood spot in East Dallas run by Serbian-born chef Peja Krstic. But that description doesn’t quite convey what’s so special about one of the most creative restaurants in town. Vietnam is just the starting point for a culinary journey which can include locally farmed or foraged produce, French or modernist cooking techniques, elaborate presentations and deceptive simplicity. The drink program is short but appealing with a cocktail list and a handful of wines chosen to pair brilliantly with the food.

Top pick:Even though one could produce a lengthy PowerPoint presentation on stellar dishes from Mot Hai Ba, one stand out: the ginger lemon grilled octopus. It's a clean and refreshing appetizer with fingerling potatoes, cucumber, tomato nuoc cham and toum (two tangy and garlicky sauces). The balanced dance between textures and flavors is what puts this dish over the top, all anchored by the delicate and sweet octopus.