When Encina opened in the fall of 2020, there wasn’t just the pandemic working against them, the restaurant was also taking over the former space of Bolsa, a beloved decade-old North Oak Cliff favorite. It had big shoes to fill. But with the leadership of owners Matt Balke and Corey McCombs, the menu and drink program are hitting it out of the park. The menu changes somewhat, but you can get the likes of tender pastrami, a decadent turkey leg confit you could share (but you won’t want to) and perfectly crisp chicken thighs. The prices may say this is a place for a special night out, but the equation is there for a good neighborhood restaurant: food you crave, consistent service and a space you want to be in. ($$$)