Chris Wolfgang
Audio By Carbonatix
Some days, in this city, it feels like there’s no such thing as a restaurant without a hook – or, for that matter, a restaurant that doesn’t have an open kitchen, white subway tile and edison bulbs hanging from the ceiling.
Sometimes, you just want to go somewhere … normal, somewhere with no “concept,” other than a commitment to doing what they do well. No selfie stations, no bottle service, just good food and drink. These are five such places.
There’s no gimmick with this burger – it just is, and that is awesome.
Adair’s Saloon
Adair’s Saloon
2624 Commerce St.
At this point, it seems almost impossible that there could be a true-blue dive bar in Deep Ellum. But Adair’s is definitely that place, and it has been for more than 30 years. Get a burger and a cold beer and enjoy a breed of bar that seems to be dying out.
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What’s better than a locally owned sub shop that keeps it simple and does it right?
Nick Rallo
New York Sub The Dallasite has been a straightforward spot for 24 years. Nick Rallo
3411 Asbury St.
An institution since 1976, New York Sub may have a new owner, but it’s still a refreshingly regular spot to grab a sub and support local business owners.
The Dallasite
4822 Bryan St.
If you want a stiff cocktail served from a bartender who has no designs on being a “mixologist,” The Dallasite is your place. Throw in comforting, straight-forward food like BLTs and raucous karaoke and you’ve got a winner, no pretense.
Poor Richard’s chicken-fried steak is the size of a frisbee, but far more delicious than one.
Kathryn DeBruler
Poor Richard’s Cafe It Chris Wolfgang
442 K Ave., Plano
No avocado toast, no $14 brunch cocktails, no fighting a woman in Lululemon leggings for the last patio table – Poor Richard’s Cafe is a classic, stuff-yourself-silly diner, and sometimes that’s all you really need.
Nate’s BBQ To-Go
2009 W. Hebron Pkwy #100, Carrollton
It doesn’t get much more straightforward than this Carrollton barbecue trailer, which only has a couple seats in its tiny dining room. Do as most people do and grab a two-meat plate with brisket and whatever else strikes your fancy, then enjoy it from the comfort of your own home.