b'goodEATSand Eggplant Parmigiana. But unlike a lot of other old-school Italian joints,Craft cocktails, wine, and beer plus live music on weekends make this a crowdDiggs Taco Shop this one also accommodates egg-free, gluten-free and dairy-free substitu- favorite. Oh, and did we mention Saturday night belly dancing? Whats notDallasites have pretty particular opinions when it comes to tacos, so finding a tions at low or no additional cost on many of their items. A small but well- to love? taco shop that pleases everyone in your group can be challenging. But Diggs priced wine list and cocktails are also available.18484 Preston Rd., Ste. 119 | Dallas has taken care of that with plenty of menu items for vegetarians, Paleo en-7989 Belt Line Rd., Ste. 315 | Dallas (972) 596-8610 thusiasts, carnivores and kiddos. The Tex-Mex standards are definitely there, (972) 716-9950 www.giovannisusa.com including braised chicken, roasted pork carnitas and slow cooked BBQ brisket. But youll also find some tasty, spicy surprises, such as habanero shrimp with 201 E. Bethany Dr., Ste. 1 | Allen Mama Pita Mediterranean Grill mango, the Bahn Jovi (basically, their take on a Vietnamese pork sandwich (214) 383-6677 If youre looking for affordable and delicious Mediterranean food, Mama Pitaserved on a tortilla) and grilled Alaskan flounder with serrano chile sauce. www.romancucina.com is waiting for you. Easily customizable plates, salads and pitas allow you toSalsas and queso are solid, but be sure to try a side of plantain chips with pick and choose whatever sides you crave, from light and crispy falafel andhouse dip, too. Salads and bowls provide healthy options for low-carbers and Ruggeri\'s flatbread to creamy hummus and tzatziki. Kafta (beef kabobs) are tender andfor those who dont mind carbs, the jelly donut holes are addictive.Ruggeri\'s has been a favorite destination for authentic Italian cuisine fordeliciousperfect for dipping in one of several garlicky sauces (try the yel- 6309 Hillcrest Ave. | Dallasmore than twenty-five years, whether you\'re looking for a cozy weeknightlow tahini/carrot dip). Counter service is fast and friendly, and the open and(214) 520-0155spot for mouthwatering pasta or somewhere to celebrate a special occasion.airy atmosphere makes it a nice place for dining-in. Or, if you prefer, order Soft-Shell Crab Oreganato is a delicious starter, sauted with lemon, plenty ofonline ahead of time and take er home. 7325 Gaston Ave. | Dallasgarlic and oregano. Moving on to pasta, go for Ravioli Fresco del Gioroten- 5800 Legacy Dr., Ste. C6 | Plano (469) 930-9504der dough pillows stuffed with sausage and ricotta and topped with a light(972) 403-1609 www.diggstacos.comtomato basil sauce. But the true menu star just might be the 16-ounce vealwww.mamapita.comchop with wild mushrooms and Marsala wine; it melts in your mouth. CravingDillasveal but can\'t conquer 16-ounces? Go for Vitello di Scampiveal and shrimpZo\'s Kitchen If you like quesadillas, youre going to love Dillas. UT Alum Kyle Gordon creat-living happily on the same plate, in a light and luscious lemony butter sauce.The name "Zo\'s Kitchen" has become synonymous with quick, healthy anded the concept behind Dillas while still in college, where he consumed more Traditional Italian desserts (Tiramisu, Cappuccino Pie, Spumone) satisfy yourdelicious Mediterranean food for busy people on the go; its also a perfectthan his share of the beloved Mexican snack. But here, youre in for so much sweet tooth, too. choice for family takeout, offering something for everyones taste buds. Startmore than the typical tortilla and melted cheese concoctionthink ingredi-5950-A Royal Ln. | Dallas with a classic hummus trio appetizer, which includes the classic version, basilents like: smoked brisket, Portobello mushrooms, hatch green chile peppers, (214) 750-0111 pesto and harissa red pepperserved with pita bread, pita chips and plentybacon, and fries (yes, folks, fries on a quesadilla!). Portions are generous, so www.ruggerisrestaurant.com of crisp veggies. Kabobs are flavorful and filling, whether you go with skewerscome hungry, and for the truly ravenous, go for the Gorilla Fries or Chipsof moist chunks of chicken, beef, seafood or veggies. We crave the Bowls, es- both come nacho-inspired and smothered in hatch chile queso. For those Russos Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen pecially the Cauliflower Rice version with house-made tzatziki, Israeli skhug,avoiding carbs, the Not-A-Dilla with spinach, romaine, citrus corn salad and This Houston-based eatery does offer a well-rounded menu, includingfeta, cucumbers and plenty of fresh dill. There are loads of options for vege- your choice of chicken or steak is a nice alternative. Arancini (delectable Sicilian rice balls loaded with herbs and Romano cheesetarians, Paleo eaters and those eating gluten-free, and check out the website2008 Midway Rd. | Planoin a rich Bolognese sauce), fantastic Calzones, and standard Italian entresfor additional information on food sensitivities and allergens. When it comes(972) 473-4601(Chicken Piccata and the like).That said, the real draw to Russos is the pizza,to healthy, delicious food, Zos makes us want to say, Opa!thanks to its nearly 1,000-degree coal-fired oven, which gives us that chewy,Multiple locations throughout DFW3930 Preston Rd., Ste. 140 | Friscobut crispy, crust we love. Try the Prosciutto and Kale with Mozzarella andwww.zoeskitchen.com (469) 362-6123Ricotta cheese. Feeling carnivorous? The Paesano Napolatana will leave youwww.dillas.comfeeling sated. Russos is family-friendly, and they cater to both big and smallMexican parties. El Bolero Cocina Mexicana 700 E. Campbell Rd. | Richardson Caf MalagaThis authentic spot draws the inspiration for its food and beverages from the (972) 235-7992 A great pick for tapas and maybe a lovely glass of ros. Just off the beautifuldiverse regions of Mexico. The patio has plenty of umbrellas to provide shade, www.russoscoalfired.com downtown historic square, Caf Malagas secluded back patio is a bit of a hid- making it an ideal brunch spot; or kick back on an afternoon with one of their den gem but well worth a visit. Tapas standouts include the Lamb Lollipopoutstanding margaritas and some tacos al pastor.TerillisChops and gooey Fondue with five different types of cheese.1201 Oak Lawn Ave., Ste. 160 | DallasHave you tried Terillis Italchos? What on earth are you waiting for?! Think: an107 S. Church St. | McKinney (214) 741-1986Italian nacho loaded with a skys-the-limit assortment of toppings, including(972) 542-9996 www.elboleromexican.comsmoked salmon, calamari, and white truffle oilwhats not to love? Otherwww.cafemalaga.comthings to love about Terillis: an expansive menu that includes all your ItalianGlorias Latin Cuisinefavorites, from silky pastas to wood fired meats and fish, a full bar with sig- Casa Mama For three-plus decades in the Metroplex, Glorias (under the loving care of nature ice-cold martinis and a rooftop patio with one of the prettiest views ofIf youre looking for a family-friendly dining location offering both authenticthe Fuentes family) has established itself as a date night and family favorite, Dallas. Plus, most nights they play live music. Desserts are solid, but a stand- Mexican recipes (specifically, from the Santiago Maravatio Guanajuato re- offering the freshest Salvadorian-inspired food in a casual-chic setting. Start out for us is the Xango Cheesecakefilo wrapped, then fried and rolled ingion) and Tex-Mex favorites, Casa Mama is the right place for you. Youll findoff with an order of pupusasthe dish that started it allhandmade corn cinnamon sugar with amaretto and whipped creamperfect with an Italianall your favorite Mexican dishes here and a few pleasant surprises, too, includ- tortillas stuffed with gooey cheese, pork or both. Chile Relleno is tender and espresso or grappa, if youre living large. ing rich and filling Guiso Pork Stew, homey Tortilla Lasagna, Chipotle Enchi- flavorful, never greasy, and you cant go wrong with any of the seafood spe-2815 Greenville Ave. | Dallas ladas, and Ribeye or Salmon Tacos. White Queso is one of the best around,cialties such as Camarones a la Plancha (jumbo seasoned shrimp, grilled to (214) 827-3993 served with light, crispy chipstake it up a notch by adding in ground beef,perfection). Dont worry, Tex-Mex fans, theres also a section on the menu for www.terillis.com chorizo or brisket. House made salsa is unique and comes with a free kick.you! Some locations convert to dance clubs after hours on weekends (check Service is known for being exceptionally friendly, and staff is happy to accom- the website), and brunch at Glorias is always fun.Urban Crust modate any special orders. Dont miss the all-day Tuesday happy hour or theMultiple locations throughout DFW Whats more relaxing than ordering in a pizza? Urban Crusts catering optionsrelaxing Sunday brunch. www.gloriascuisine.comtake care of everything you need whether its a small pick-up order, a huge ca- 19129 Preston Rd. | Dallastered affair or even their mobile pizza oven at your next home party, complete(469) 828-1045 Hugos Invitadoswith two pizza chefs. Pizza is Urban Crusts mainstay but it also offers deliciousA sleek interior and natural lighting provide a gorgeous, relaxed setting for mini appetizers like Chicken Parmesan Sliders and Bite Size Calzones. Fresh1445 Los Rios Blvd., Ste. 301 | Plano the real reason we love Hugos, which is the food. Friendly owner Hugo Mi-and hearty salads will round out your menu. (972) 943-3900 randa ensures his passion for Mexican flavors is presented in a unique way 1006 E. 15th St. | Plano www.casamamas.com on every plate. Everythings fresh and made from scratch, with an emphasis on delicious, healthy ingredients such as kale, quinoa, Brussels sprouts, and Chuys roasted corn. Seafood Enchiladas are bursting with five types of seafood and Mediterranean What started in Austin in 1982 as fun/funky Tex-Mex jointwhere you couldcontrast nicely with pickled cabbage and chile ancho salsa. Simple tacos are grab a beer and chips or a comforting mix of familiar entrees, has since grownnot so simple when served on house-made tortillas and stuffed with ingre-GiovannisMediterraneanandinto what you might call a Tex-Mex empire, with locations across Texas anddients such as vegetarian impossible meat (try it!), watercress, and avoca-Italian Cuisine 14 other states. Still, Chuys hasnt lost its charm. And a lot of love goes intodo-serrano sauce. Book the Tasting Table with nine of your friends to enjoy Why choose between Mediterranean,Chuys foodfrom hand-pulled chicken in all entrees, to hand-rolled freshworld-class tequilas and mezcals, or stop by for daily happy hour specials. Persian,andItaliancuisinewhentortillas, to any of the 10 signature sauces made fresh dailythose extraInvitados means guests, and youll be more than welcome here.Giovannis offers the best of all three?steps really make a difference in both taste and quality. If your appetites5240 N. O\'Connor Blvd., Ste. 160 | IrvingGiovannis relaxed atmosphere makescavernous, youll definitely want to try a Big As Yo Face Burrito or famous(214) 496-0590it a perfect spot for a weekday biteElvis Green Chile Fried Chicken breaded with Lays potato chips, deep fried andwww.hugosinvitados.comwith co-workers or a weekend datesmothered with green chile sauce and cheese. A small but refreshing selec-nightorfamilyouting.Startwithtion of signature drinks still makes Chuys a perfect place to kick backanyJaviers a refreshing plate of Panir-O-Sabzi, a colorful plate of feta cheese, radish,time, any place. A Knox-Henderson institution, Javiers is still the go-to place for a guaran-cucumber, onion, basil, and mint. Kebabs are well-seasoned and perfectlyMultiple locations throughout DFW teed good time with its bustling crowd of beautiful people and a swanky (just cooked; meat lasagna is also a standout. Eggplant Stew with chunks of beef,www.chuys.com ignore the smoke) cigar bar.No Tex-Mex here.This is authentic Mexico City yellow split peas, and strips of fried eggplant is both fragrant and satisfying.dining.Dont miss the FileteG CoaondtiLniflfaesF am teinlydMerlaogin. cboemeffi AlePtR sItLu ff2e0d2 0wi5th5'