Last weekend was the annual Taste of Dallas event held at Fair Park. Not only were attendees invited to sample food from a variety of local restaurants and food trucks, but they also had the opportunity to do everything you really want to do on a Saturday afternoon in Dallas.
Food
Of course there was food, and what a great opportunity to try all those restaurants you™re always hearing about. With booths set up along Fair Park™s Esplanade fountains, participating restaurants had created perfect tasting menus priced from $1 to $3, so you could try a little bit of everything without emptying your wallet or filling your stomach. My personal favorites were the ribs from Texas Rib Rangers in Denton and the jerk chicken nachos from The Island Spot in Carrolton. Not to be forgotten, however, were the lemon ricotta pancake pops from Coffee House Café. Light, sweet and slightly citrusy, I could have eaten those all day and been perfectly satisfied.
Drinks
Sure there were stands selling beer, wine, water and carbonated beverages of the common variety, but there were also local wineries, distilleries and craft breweries showing off their latest creations throughout the day. Armadillo Ale Works brought along their newest beer Brunch Money a strong golden ale flavored with coffee and maple syrup. I personally was pleasantly surprised by the TGI Friday™s Food Truck™s Strawberry Passion Tea (pictured). Light and refreshing, but still packed with a slightly tangy sweetness, it really hit the spot on a hot Texas afternoon.
Fun: Oh, there was plenty of fun to be had. Petting zoos, inflatable obstacle courses, live music and a dedicated area for World Cup fans, the event had a little bit of everything for all folks involved.
All in all, the 2014 Taste of Dallas was exactly that – a taste of the city™s best food, drink and play. It was a great way to try new restaurants with all the convenience of walking around Fair Park and none of the commitment to just one menu or type of food.
Personally, I can™t wait until next year.
(Disclaimer: I was provided with a complimentary ticket to attend the festival in exchange for a review post.)
Foodie Feedback