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DallasFoodNerd

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Tag: Lena Pope

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Food News

Let the dining begin! DFW Restaurant Week Gives Back to North Texas Food Bank and Lena Pope.

August 11, 2026August 11, 2026 Nelli Tokleh Sproull
dfw retaurant week 30 years

Three decades of dining out for a cause!

Tagged DFW Restaurant Week,Lena Pope,north texas food bank

A Community Project

this is a community project of a few (20+ now!) Dallas based nerds who happen to like food. probably a little too much. do you heart food? do you take pictures of everything before you eat it? Do you use foursquare, foodspotting, yelp, instagram, pinterest and twitter to share about food? Do you live or travel to the Dallas area? join us. Questions or concerns can be directed at DFN founders @Elysa or @RoryEllis or email foodie AT dallasfoodnerd.com Follow my blog with Bloglovin

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Say goodbye to boring bowling alley food! @bowla Say goodbye to boring bowling alley food! @bowlandbarrel is the perfect place to enjoy a round of bowling while you share a pizza and yummy appetizers. Not to mention, they’ve got a full bar - including mocktails! We tried the pepperoni pizza 🍕, chicken meatballs 🐔 and crab hushpuppies 🦀 Perfect for girls night, group outings, or date night. Tag who you’re bringing 👇 *invited #dallasfoodnerd 📷: @ashleemademedoit
Out in Denton testing the lineup at @kurumerameniz Out in Denton testing the lineup at @kurumeramenizakayatx, and this spot completely delivered on authentic Japanese comfort food. It’s a great little hideaway with awesome vibes and a huge menu that has something for everyone. What we ordered: 🔥 Nagasaki Seafood Ramen (hands-down the highlight of the meal!) 🔥 Gyoza & Egg Rolls 🔥 Shrimp Tempura, Fresh Sushi & Chicken Fried Rice Whether you’re stopping in for a steaming bowl of ramen, fresh sushi, or their insane $30 sushi boat deal, you’re in for a solid meal. 📍 Kurume Ramen & Izakaya — Denton, TX 🚗 Pickup & To-Go available if you’re grabbing lunch on the run! Save this spot for your next Denton food run! 📌 *hosted #dallasfoodnerd 📸: @feliciajarrell_
Add this Mexican restaurant to your rotation! We Add this Mexican restaurant to your rotation! We stopped by @LunaRojadallas in the heart of Downtown Dallas for National Fajita Day, and it did not disappoint. Tucked inside the Hilton Garden Inn, this spot offers an elevated patio vibe paired with some of the absolute best skyline views around. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, plus a great happy hour. (The Tres Leches French Toast and Lxcacao Chocolate Waffle from the brunch menu are calling our names!) Grab a seat on the patio, order a drink, and enjoy the city vibes. 📍1525 Elm Street, Downtown Dallas (inside @hgidallasdtn) *invited #DallasFoodNerd 📸: @feliciajarrell_
Dallas, your next cookie run does double duty 🍪 A Dallas, your next cookie run does double duty 🍪 All September long, Dallas area McAlister’s Deli is donating 50¢ from every sugar cookie sold to Wounded Warrior Project. It’s honestly the easiest way to support something that matters. Go grab yours before the month’s out! 📍 Participating Dallas-area McAlister’s Deli locations only #McAlistersDeli #McAlistersDeliPartner #CookiesForACause #WoundedWarriorProject
$25 Bottomless Brunch 🥂🍳 If you can’t decide bet $25 Bottomless Brunch 🥂🍳 If you can’t decide between savory or sweet, or you’ve got a big group that wants to try everything on the menu @sevendoorskitchen has you covered with unlimited bottomless brunch. We started calling it brunch tapas because it’s basically a bunch of small plates of brunch favorites: chicken & waffles, French toast, breakfast hash, & more. Find something you love? They just keep the plates coming until you’re ready to stop. All for $25! And what’s brunch without unlimited drink options? Pair your plates with a handcrafted $5 spritz, or keep it classic with $2 mimosas in your choice of flavor. 🥂🍳Bottomless Brunch: Sat 11-2, Sun 10-2 We love the charm and history behind the actual 7 doors, each one having an individual story, from 1920s Paris to a painted pine from Italy. The owner collected these doors over the years before building a whole authentic restaurant around them. 📍 Grandscape, The Colony *hosted #dallasfoodnerd
Not famous, but known. 🥯 🔥 PopUp Bagels just offi Not famous, but known. 🥯 🔥 PopUp Bagels just officially opened their new location in McKinney, and if you haven’t experienced the whole “Grip, Rip, and Dip” routine yet, you are severely missing out. Who doesn’t love a piping hot, fresh-out-of-the-oven bagel served whole by the bag, paired with insanely creative schmears that rotate constantly?! What we tried at the grand opening: ✨ Jonas Brothers “Burnin’ Up” Schmear ✨ Brown Sugar Cinnamon Schmear ✨🥯 Plain, Salted + Everything Pair that with drinks from La Colombe Coffee and Natalie’s OJ or a can of @bloomsupps and you’ve got the ultimate morning pickup. Welcome to the neighborhood, @popupbagels 📍 PopUp Bagels | McKinney & Dallas 📸: @feliciajarrell_ #dallasfoodnerd *hosted
Plano just got a major upgrade, and it’s hidden in Plano just got a major upgrade, and it’s hidden in plain sight. Located right off Dallas North Tollway, @Sangria_y_cerveza is bringing a fresh concept they call Mexiterranean where Northern Mexico meets Mediterranean flavors in a gorgeous, eclectic lounge setting. They are officially serving brunch, making it a spot the whole family can enjoy! Here’s what we loved off the menu: ✨ Tres Leches Pancakes ✨ Al Pastor Breakfast Tacos ✨ Guacamole and ceviche ✨ Street Corn ✨ Ceviche Tostadas 📍 Sangria Y Cerveza | Plano, TX (Right off the DNT) *invited #DallasFoodNerd 📸 @feliciajarrell_
✨Win a 12-course omakase experience at @osho_omaka ✨Win a 12-course omakase experience at @osho_omakase_dallas ✨ We checked out one of the most affordable yet highest quality omakases in town, Osho in north Dallas. They offer two experiences at $90 (12 courses) & $120 (15 courses), which both include multiple sushi & sashimi courses, along with a main course (a delightful Japanese sesame & truffle noodle), soup courses (a hearty miso corn) & of course, the Grand Finale—a A5 Wagyu beef dish topped with foie gras. So good, I’m still thinking about it two days later. Of the sushi & sashimi courses, the sawara sashimi stood out. It’s served in a garlic ponzu sauce they should sell by the bottle. The hirame opener was also a showstopper, paired with a surprising smoky pineapple. Every dish was meticulously prepared & there were several particularly creative presentations. A terrific experience definitely worth the trip to north Dallas! 🍣GIVEAWAY🍣 We’re giving away (2) $90 omakase experiences to try Osho for yourself! To enter: On IG, Follow @dallasfoodnerd @osho_omakase_dallas & @izumi.mimi.official Leave a comment with who you’d like to take with you to omakase! Every comment is a separate entry. We’ll draw 2 winners at random in one week & will notify via DM. Good luck! 📍Osho Omakase, 18149 Dallas Pkway, Dallas *hosted #dallasomakase 📷: @amypyen
🥃 A long-time favorite in DFW, @lockwooddistilling 🥃 A long-time favorite in DFW, @lockwooddistillingco distills their own vodka & whiskey in house, and we ESPECIALLY love their bourbon cream. But people may be surprised to learn that their food & events are really good too. They host Bingo on Tuesdays with seasonal themes and have various booze & food special nights, like Thursday Girl Dinner. We had a fun friend night with some in-house cocktails, the grazing board, deviled eggs, chicken sandwich, and grilled cheese. But what we really want you to try is this boozy soft serve peach ice cream! 😋🍑🍦 Lockwood is so nice for a casual outing the whole family can enjoy, all while you try their yummy liquor-infused creations. 📍McKinney, Garland, Richardson *hosted #dallasfoodnerd
Dubai Chocolate Cookies are back!! 🍫🍪 We got a sp Dubai Chocolate Cookies are back!! 🍫🍪 We got a special delivery of @tiffstreats’ fastest selling limited time item ever, Dubai Chocolate Cookies, & they were so ooey gooey good! There is nothing more delightful than a Tiff’s Treats delivery, which always come still warm, just out of the oven. We loved this combination of double chocolate cookie stuffed with pistachio cream and kataifi and topped with chopped pistachios.  Last time this cookie had a 10K+ waitlist so definitely don’t wait to order yours this time! They’re available now through September 30. 🍪Order now at cookiedelivery.com for delivery across DFW *tiffstreatspartner #dubaichocolate #cookiedelivery 📷: @amypyen
A new Truck Yard location in Richardson? You heard A new Truck Yard location in Richardson? You heard right! 🍻 This is the fourth Truck Yard location in DFW, and it’s got all of your signature faves! Tacos, ice-cold drinks, live music, and it’s dog friendly! 🐶🌮🎸 With rotating local food trucks, live music daily, sports on the tvs, and tons of mister fans keeping things cool, it’s going to be your new go-to spot to meet up with your crew. Plus, the quirky decor and lawn chair seating give it that classic backyard party feel. Psst…you’ve GOT to check out the awesome bathrooms with different themes! 🪩 👇 Who’s joining you for a patio date this week? 📍 @truckyardbar – 740 S. Central Expressway, Richardson, TX *Hosted #DallasFoodNerd 📷: @CallingCarolyn
New racing simulation lounge in Dallas 🏎️💨 We che New racing simulation lounge in Dallas 🏎️💨 We checked out the new race car simulation lounge in Dallas for a good dinner & some friendly competition. For any @nascar @f1 or any sports car/motorcycle fans out there, @velocitysimlounge is a really fun, immersive virtual track racing experience. You can select from a variety of courses, including some famous tracks! For the novices like us, we loved that you can customize the level of seat movement to meet your skill level. You’re locked in with the headset that allows you to have full visibility of your competition as well as talk to your friends beside you. We love an activity that we can bring the whole crew. But we also want to taste some good food. We appreciate that they did scrimp on good food everyone can stay in one place for the night. We enjoyed: the slider tower, meat & cheese board, coconut shrimp, flatbread & steak frites. Nerdy tip: If you get motion sickness, prep ahead… because this really does feel like the full race‑car experience. 📍Walnut Hill, Dallas *hosted #dallasfoodnerd
@dfwrestaurantweek is here through Sept 7, and as @dfwrestaurantweek is here through Sept 7, and as you’re building your list of places to try, add @asador_dallas to the list 🍽️ For just $59, you’ll get a 3-course dinner while supporting our community. Asador will donate $12 from every DFW Restaurant Week meal to the North Texas Food Bank, so every bite is worth a cause. ;) Inside the @rendallashotel Asador is known for its farm to fire dishes and meals made from scratch. Their Restaurant Week menu includes 2 appetizers, 2 entrées, and 1 dessert to share. We couldn’t pick just one dessert, so we treated ourselves to two... What we ordered: INTROS: Heritage Berkshire Pork Belly & Yellowfin Tuna Tartare ENTREES FROM THE FIRE: Braised Wagyu Short Ribs & Peruvian Grilled Chicken DESSERT TEMPTATIONS: Lemon Torta Cake Semifreddo & Deconstructed Key Lime Pie There’s just something special about catching up with friends over a great meal on a weeknight. Good conversation, amazing food, & to support a local cause? That’s a win all around. Make your reservation before DFW Restaurant Week wraps up and enjoy one of Dallas’ best dining deals. *hosted #dallasfoodnerd
New in Dallas! @lionsdendallas hidden inside @TheS New in Dallas! @lionsdendallas hidden inside @TheStoneleigh The Lions Den feels like a secluded, high-end sanctuary and is part of the $20M hotel renovations. Led by the acclaimed Chef Michael White (known for earning Michelin stars and James Beard awards for his pastas), guests can enjoy fresh pasta made daily (including GF options) plus more Italian standouts. This is the private, upscale restaurant you didn’t know you were looking for. Our recommendations: The Porterhouse Dinner for Two: Cooked to absolute perfection. Lobster Pot Pie: Trust us, it’s the BEST plot twist. Steak Tartare & The Caesar Salad were the perfect appetizers to complement the meal. For Dessert, Budino. The blend of Budino with Nutella and Hazelnuts are a masterclass in ending the night right. 📍2927 Maple Ave, Dallas *invited 📸@feliciajarrell_
Latin Steakhouse in Dallas🥩 @Lunamicuisine is a g Latin Steakhouse in Dallas🥩 @Lunamicuisine is a gorgeous, spacious restaurant located in the heart of Bishop Arts. The owners have brought the flavors of their home country to Dallas, and we could not be more impressed! We tried everything from Caldo De Camarón, Mixed Ceviche & Guacamole, Chicken & Steak Fajitas and Pera al Vino Tinto for dessert. The poached pear dessert stole the entire show! 🍸 HAPPY HOUR WEEKLY SPECIALS 5pm–7 PM, Tuesday–Thursday: • Tuesday: $5 Margaritas • Wednesday: $7 Tequila Sunrises • Thursday: $7 Piña Coladas 📍111 W. Davis St., Bishop Arts District, Dallas ✨ Brunch is available Wednesday through Sunday (we need to try the Tres Leche Pancakes!) *invited 📸: @feliciajarrell_
Your new go-to for game day just opened 🏈🍸 @thela Your new go-to for game day just opened 🏈🍸 @thelanding_epiccentral is redefining the sports bar with an elevated menu, great drinks, and screens everywhere so you never miss a play. The menu (curated by DFW’s own Tiffany Derry @mastercheftd) is stacked with shareable eats made for a crowd. Here’s what we tried: 🍴 Chinese salt & pepper wings 😋 smoked brisket egg rolls 🥚 deviled eggs 🫕 brisket queso 🌶️ spicy margarita 🥃 old fashioned Bring your crew, grab a table, and make this your spot for the next big game this season! PS: don’t miss out on getting shaved ice and sweet treats at Chef Tiffany Derry’s other concept, @syrupandsno just steps away from The Landing at @epiccentralgp! *partially hosted #dallasfoodnerd
Wing lovers, @valleywingsdallastx needs to be on y Wing lovers, @valleywingsdallastx needs to be on your radar!🍗🔥 Everything at this family-owned spot comes out piping hot, cooked to perfection, and packed with flavor. They offer a great variety of signature sauces as well as delicious dry rubs! Here are our recommendations: Valley Gold Wings: Their signature flavor on crispy wings—truly tasty! Classic BBQ Wings: Standout, unique flavor that isn’t your average BBQ sauce. Chicken Alfredo Fries: Served in a huge portion with flavor in every single bite! Be sure to check out their weekday lunch specials and themed promo days—like Wing Wednesdays with 75¢ boneless wings! Definitely adding this to our list of top wing spots in the Metroplex. The North Dallas spot has friendly, helpful staff and tons of easy parking. 📍 7989 Belt Line Rd, Dallas 👀 Lancaster, be on the lookout—Valley Wings is opening a second location near you soon! *hosted #DallasFoodNerd 📷: @CallingCarolyn
Dim Sum, Poke, Mongolian BBQ, and Cajun Crawfish a Dim Sum, Poke, Mongolian BBQ, and Cajun Crawfish all under ONE roof? Say less! If you haven’t been to @kingbuffet.arlington yet, they’ve expanded their lineup in a big way. It’s one of the largest AYCE buffets in the area, and the spread is seriously impressive. Bring a big appetite because you’ll definitely be going back for round two (and three)! AYCE Pricing: LUNCH BUFFET(MON-FRI): ADULT $14.99 | KID(5-10YRS) $8.99 DINNER BUFFET(MON-THUR): ADULT $17.99 | KID(5-10YRS) $9.99 DINNER BUFFET(FRIDAY): ADULT $18.99 | KID(5-10YRS) $10.99 ALL DAY DINNER BUFFET(SAT-SUN): ADULT $18.99 | KID(5-10YRS) $10.99 3-4 Years Kids Buffet: $4.99 📍300 E Interstate 20, Arlington *Invited #dallasfoodnerd 📸 @feliciajarrell_
Honestly, making your own sushi hits different.🔥 Honestly, making your own sushi hits different.🔥 We spent an evening at a @LavSushi class, and it was easily one of the most fun culinary experiences we’ve done lately. It’s social, interactive, and honestly surprisingly rewarding when your roll actually looks (and tastes!) like a restaurant-quality plate. If you want to step outside the usual restaurant circuit and try something hands-on, sign up for their next class on Oct. 2. It’s $70/person for 3 custom rolls & a nigiri (can be made GF, vegan and vegetarian upon request.). Classes also take place in Houston and Austin! Visit their page to learn more > @lavsushi *invited #dallasfoodnerd 📸 @feliciajarrell_
We’re officially ONE MONTH AWAY from the @statefai We’re officially ONE MONTH AWAY from the @statefairoftx right here in our own city and we’re counting down the days! 🎡 From Sept 25–Oct 18, the State Fair of Texas brings us 4 weeks of Big Tex, live shows, rodeos, test drives, concerts, crazy food concoctions, petting zoos, cooking demos, art exhibits, carnival games, rides, and all the TX culture we love. 🤠 Whether it’s your first time or you’re a lifer like us, there’s always something new to try. Save these dates: State Fair Classic — Sept 26 Red River Rivalry — Oct 10 State Fair Clásico — Oct 18 Follow along! We’ll be trying new foods & sharing all the fun happening at the State Fair of Texas this season.
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