Like that button on your trousers keeping your filled gut in place, Fort Worth's dining scene is on the precipice of bursting wide open. Restaurants both new and old are serving up some of the - dare we say - nation's best dishes, and there's still plenty to look forward to. For the second year, our magazine staff took on the enjoyable and delectable task of finding Cowtown's best culinary masterpieces. To do this, we surveyed our magazine's staff as well as a group of our foodie writers who have collectively chowed down at the best bistros, fanciest joints and diviest of dives. - Fort Worth Magazine staff
STARTERS, SALADS AND SIDES
Bacon Burnt Ends, Heim Barbecue ($6, ¼ pound)
The massive popularity of Heim Barbecue is largely due to the delectable chunks of pork belly it calls bacon burnt ends. Heim smokes a pork belly, cubes it, then coats the cubes in sugar-heavy rub. They are sweet, fatty, bite-sized nuggets of smoked meat that are both chewy and juicy. They're both delectable and dangerously addictive. 1109 W. Magnolia Ave., heimbbq.com
Cigarette Borek, Istanbul Grill ($7)
Cigarette Borek gets its name because of its shape, but don't expect to find tobacco anywhere in the ingredients. This Turkish appetizer at Istanbul Grill is a fan favorite with creamy white cheese and parsley rolled in phyllo dough and then deep-fried. 401 Throckmorton St., istanbulgrilltx.com
Soupe à L"Oignon Gratinée, rise no°3 ($8)
While rise no°3's Marshmallow Soup (which also made our list) receives the most recognition, Rise's Soupe à L"Oignon Gratinée (French onion soup) is superb. Sweet caramelized onions swim in a rich brown broth beneath a just-right layer of gooey Gruyère, and unlike other renditions found in town, this soup is not overly salty. 5135 Monahans Ave., risesouffle.com
Tokyokonomiyaki, Tokyo Café ($8)
New to Tokyo Café's menu is a dish called Tokyokonomiyaki, which is a traditional Japanese street food that's similar to a savory pancake. Mixed with noodles, grilled green onions and egg, this dish is topped with sweet teriyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise and served in a cast-iron pan. But what sets this dish over the top are the dried bonito shavings. 5121 Pershing Ave., tokyocafefw.net
Salad Unlimited, Mac's Bar & Grill ($3.85)
Mac's Bar & Grill offers a menu of steaks and seafood with a Southwestern influence. The Salad Unlimited is a favorite among those who like getting the best value. Servings of well-tossed mixed greens, house dressing and fresh blue cheese crumbles are limitless. 6077 Interstate 20, Arlington, macsteak.com
Nick's Salad, Italy Pizza & Pasta ($8.95)
Italy Pizza & Pasta's salads, using only the freshest ingredients, provide a yummy start to its Italian meal. Nick's Salad mixes Italian greens with onions, garlic and bell peppers. A simple olive oil and lemon dressing keeps it light and allows ample room for the heavier main dishes to follow. 800 E. Loop 820, italypizzaandpasta.com
Cheese Curds, City Works ($8)
Typically found up North and particularly popular in Wisconsin, cheese curds have made their way south and are exceptionally tasty at City Works in the Clearfork district. The cornmeal-battered and fried white cheddar with smoked tomato coulis acts as the perfect accompaniment to the 90 craft beers City Works has on tap. 5288 Monahans Ave., cityworksrestaurant.com
Taza Mas Cobb, Bird Café ($15)
Taza Mas translates to English as "cup plus" - likely a reference to the hefty size of this deconstructed salad at Bird Café in Sundance Square. Replacing the traditional Cobb salad topping of bacon with a crispy prosciutto, Bird Café's rendition still retains the roasted chicken, blue cheese, egg, tomato and avocado. Ingredients are fresh, and the flavors bold. 155 E. Fourth and Commerce streets, birdinthe.net
Salsita Salad, Salsa Limón ($7 regular fillings, $8 premium fillings)
While most diners throng to Salsa Limón for the tacos, the Salsita Salad is a star on the menu with a hodgepodge of ingredients and combine to make a culinary synergy that combines perfectly with a glass of horchata.550 Throckmorton St., salsalimon.com
Steamed Honey Mussels, GRACE ($28)
Sitting unassumingly at the bottom of GRACE's "snack" menu, the Thai-inspired Steamed Honey Mussels are in good company among other innovative treats like the Hawaiian blue prawns, lamb belly dumplings and chorizo-stuffed dates. These mussels take it to the next level with baby bok choy, lobster broth and a side of french fries. 777 Main St., gracefortworth.com
HG Chips & Queso, HG Sply Co. ($12)
HG Sply Co.'s prime spot, nestled along the Trinity River in WestBend, makes it popular among the TCU crowd and locals looking to fuel up between shopping destinations. We are particularly fond of HG Sply's spicy vegan queso with guacamole, green onion, salsa and cilantro. You'll wonder how something with no cheese can taste so cheesy. 1621 River Run, Ste. 176, hgsply.com
Elk Tostadas, Branch and Bird ($16)
Great for downtown professionals, the restaurant's premier cocktails can be paired with contemporary shareable offerings like Branch and Bird's Elk Tostadas. Served with mango barbecue sauce, crème fresca and kimchi, the tender elk is piled on three corn tostadas. 640 Taylor St.,12th floor, branchbirdfw.com
Crispy Pork Ears, Wabi House ($5)
While people will travel for miles to taste Wabi House's pork bone soup, it's the Fried Pork Ears that had us wanting to hear more. Often served in larger pieces to retain moisture, we love the thin, crispy strips at Wabi House, served with house seasonings and a bonito aioli for dipping. 1229 Eighth Ave., wabihouse.com
Bourbon Black Beans & Sweetcorn Chips, Taco Heads ($4)
Cooked slowly for hours and topped with queso fresco, the Bourbon Black Beans at Taco Heads are something to write home about. The sweetness from the bourbon permeates the palate, so much so that you consider asking your server for a straw. 1812 Montgomery St., tacoheads.com
Deviled Eggs, Drakes Yoke ($8)
While the Deviled Eggs may be one of the few menu items that defies that Drakes Yoke tradition of having everything cooked over an open flame, these tasty bad boys are an elevated version of the potluck favorite. Velvety-smooth egg yolks are incorporated with fresh dill and chive and topped with balsamic pearls. 225 Shops Blvd., Ste. 101, Willow Park, drakesyoke.com
Heirloom Tomato & Fried Goat Cheese Salad, Waters ($12)
On a menu loaded with fresh seafood options, the Heirloom Tomato & Fried Goat Cheese Salad holds its own with a perfectly ripe tomato, crispy-on-the-outside-and-warm-and-creamy-on-the-inside goat cheese, peppery arugula, garlic ranch and a roasted red pepper vinaigrette. The complexity of flavors is hard to put into words. 301 Main St., waterstexas.com
Marshmallow Soup, rise no°3 ($10)
Contrary to what most might think when they order Marshmallow Soup, it's actually a light tomato, carrot bisque, and the "marshmallows" are mini goat cheese soufflés floating on top. A drizzle of pesto completes the soup and makes it one of the most innovative dishes in town. 5135 Monahans Ave., risesouffle.com
Brisket Elote Cup, Panther City BBQ ($7)
While in full supply of all the traditional barbecue offerings, Panther City also gives patrons a few "BBQ Twists," such as the Brisket Elote Cup, which is a mouthwatering brisket-covered, Mexican-style shaved corn off the cob. It's a hodgepodge of flavors that hits all the right notes. 201 E. Hattie St., panthercitybbq.com
Crispy Yam, Ume Sushi & Korean BBQ ($4.95)
Before diving into the house-made ramen or assortment of sushi rolls at Ume, we suggest starting with the Crispy Yam appetizer. It strikes that perfect sweet and savory balance with thinly sliced and fried yams served with curry salt and sweet chili sauce. 4750 Bryant Irvin Road, Ste. 842, facebook.com/umesushiandkoreanbbq
The Original Irish Nachos, J. Gilligan's ($6.99 half, $7.99 full)
How can you possibly one-up natural-cut cottage fries with skins topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon, chives, onions, tomatoes and jalapeños? By adding a side of hamburger meat or grilled chicken, of course. It's not a dish for the faint of heart. 400 E. Abram St., Arlington, jgilligans.com
Grilled Bone Marrow, Clay Pigeon ($12)
Much like fresh oysters, grilled bone marrow is best if it's uncomplicated. Served with crusty sourdough and a simple fennel parsley salad, Clay Pigeon does an excellent job of allowing the natural flavor of the bone marrow to shine. 2731 White Settlement Road, claypigeonfd.com
MAIN COURSES
Dutch Babies, Ol" South Pancake House ($5.29 for one, $7.49 for two)
Any real Fort Worthian has partaken of the Dutch Babies at Ol" South. They're legendary. Topped with freshly squeezed lemon juice, powdered sugar and whipped butter that melt together into a heavenly potion, the Dutch Babies are smaller versions of the famous German pancakes for which Ol" South is best known. 1509 S. University Drive, olsouthpancakehouse.com
Eggs Benedict, The Lunch Box ($7.95)
The Lunch Box's heralded and classic Eggs Benedict is not especially innovative with its poached eggs, ham and hollandaise on a sourdough biscuit. But the ingredients and execution are what set this brunch dish apart. 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., eatthelunchbox.com
Crabmeat Soufflé, rise no°3 ($20)
At Rise, the Crabmeat Soufflé arrives to the table in just 25 minutes - the typical soufflé in France can take much longer. But fear not, the soufflé arrives fluffy and piping hot in fashionable rustic French cookware. Dip your spoon into a surreal cloud of egg meets ocean, where the crab is fresh and pieced throughout this perfectly executed exercise in puffy perfection. 5135 Monahans Ave., risesouffle.com
Grilled Portobello Quesadilla, Spiral Diner ($12.50)
Despite a vegan menu, we suspect both carnivores and vegetarians will adore the Grilled Portobello Quesadilla. Ooey-gooey cheese binds together grilled portobello mushrooms, veggies, tomatoes and creamy chipotle. Sour cream, pickled jalapeños and guacamole are served on the side. 1314 W. Magnolia Ave., spiraldiner.com
Lamb Sausage Pizza, Fireside Pies ($15)
In the midst of a handful of small plates, handmade pastas and artisan pies sits this winning dish. The lamb sausage is made in-house and is naturally sweet, which successfully offsets the heat of the jalapeño and smokiness of the provolone. Additional sweetness and aromatic from both the tomato and fresh basil finish off this crave-worthy dish. 2949 Crockett St., firesidepies.com
Portobello Veggie Burger, Dutch's ($7.75)
Alongside meatier burger options is a Portobello Veggie Burger that scores big points. Marinated to perfection, the Portobello mushroom caps are sandwiched with mayo, grilled onion, lettuce and tomato.3009 S. University Drive, dutchshamburgers.com
The Iguana Roll, Blue Sushi Sake Grill ($13)
Blue Sushi Sake Grill is more fun when you can try a little bit of everything, especially the Iguana Roll. Served in six pieces, this roll is a combination of shrimp tempura, crab mix, fresh water eel, avocado, serrano, soy paper, cucumber wrap, ponzu and eel sauce. 3131 W. Seventh St., bluesushisakegrill.com
Bad Hombre, Rodeo Goat ($12)
Served with a medium-grilled beef patty enhanced with the delicious tang of melted Gouda and Swiss cheese, the Bad Hombre comes stacked with crispy strips of thick-cut maple bacon, a mango pico and a cream cheese spread that accompanies beer-marinated onions. Finally, this ode to burger delight is dashed with a few drops of Rahr & Sons' signature Buffalo Butt Burn hot sauce. 2836 Bledosoe St., rodeogoat.com/fort-worth
Hamburger, Kincaid's ($6.40)
While Kincaid's offers glammed-up burgers like the Cowtown Deluxe or the Cattleman Burger, we prefer the original hamburger. It's classic, consistent, uses premium ground beef and the freshest buns and toppings, and it's priced just right.4901 Camp Bowie Blvd., kincaidshamburgers.com
Grilled Brisket Tacos, Rio Mambo ($10.99)
The menu is mostly Tex-Mex, with fajitas, enchiladas and margaritas, as well as a few Mexican dishes, including fresh seafood. It's known for its thin chips and cilantro-flavored salsa, but the Grilled Brisket Tacos at Rio Mambo are muy bueno. Served on corn tortillas with melted Jack cheese, the dish comes with beans and rice. 6125 SW Loop 820, Ste. 820, riomambo.com
Short Rib Benedict, Little Red Wasp ($28)
Among the Little Red Wasp's offerings that have locals swarming, the Short Rib Benedict is our favorite. It's a soft and fluffy Southern-baked biscuit topped with perfectly executed poached eggs, flavorful wilted spinach, mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone short rib and a rich hollandaise. 808 Main St., littleredwasp.com
Sonoran Chicken Enchiladas, Wild Salsa ($14)
Despite being one of several local brand-name Mexican/Tex-Mex restaurants, Wild Salsa does enough to differentiate itself with some offbeat menu items. We were impressed with Wild Salsa's Sonoran Chicken Enchiladas. Tender chicken is swaddled in chili-rubbed tortillas and smothered in elote cream, cotija, arugula salad and agave vinaigrette. 300 Throckmorton St., wildsalsarestaurant.com
Best Ribs in Texas Platter, Cokers BBQ ($13.99)
Smoked slow and low, the way it's meant to be done, these ribs fall off the bone and melt in your mouth. Served with Texas toast and a choice of two veggies or a loaded baked potato, you can order a half or full order. We'd suggest the latter. 2612 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, cokersbbq.com
Poblano Burger, Lili's Bistro ($12.50)
Take in lunch at this stretch of Cowtown Bohemia and ask for the Poblano Burger. Enjoy a delicious beef patty hot off the grill amidst roasted poblanos filled with Jack and cheddar cheese oozing out from under the bun. Several crispy strips of delicious bacon top this gem, and don't forget about the creamy triumph - the tomatillo ranch spread. 1310 W. Magnolia Ave., lilisbistro.com
Bone-In Prime Ribeye, Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse ($64, 16 ounces)
Once you order the bone-in prime strip at this Fort Worth staple, it will change your experience with steak forever. Nothing more need be said for what is most likely the best cut of meat in the region. 812 Main St., delfriscos.com
Herb-Marinated Pork Loin, Texas de Brazil ($45.99 dinner price)
Texas de Brazil continues the tradition of bringing slews of 15 different types of slow-roasted meats directly to your table. Just make sure to try the Herb-Marinated Pork Loin when the servers come by. 101 N. Houston St., texasdebrazil.com
Honey Bastard, Cane Rosso ($19)
The Honey Bastard is a sweet and savory dish that combines ingredients far from those one would find on traditional pizza. Topped with mozzarella, soppressata and sweet bacon marmalade (yes, marmalade made of bacon), the perfectly charred crust makes the texture of this mouthwatering pie perfect. 815 W. Magnolia Ave., canerosso.com
Chicken Fried Steak, Billy's Oak Acres BBQ ($10.95)
Just as good as the moist, buttery, smoked meats at Billy's Oak is the Chicken Fried Steak. It's so big, you won't see your plate until you're about halfway through it. Our guarantee is that you won't leave hungry. 7709 Camp Bowie W. Blvd., billysrealtexasbbq.com
Herb Crusted Lamb Chop, Clay Pigeon ($38)
The seasonal menu at Clay Pigeon is small, but everything on it is special. Yet, we'd hate for anyone to miss the appetizing Herb Crusted Lamb Chop. The crust is delightfully savory, and sides of potato gnocchi and autumn squash deliver a flavorful punch. 2731 White Settlement Road, claypigeonfd.com
Shrimp and Grits, Little Red Wasp ($22)
If you're ever having a bad day, head over to Little Red Wasp and get a plate of the Shrimp and Grits. A comforting portion of the fresh shrimp and creamy grits can right any wrong. Chef Blaine Staniford puts a Louisiana spin on this Southern staple by adding Syracuse andouille sausage, scallions and creole butter. 808 Main St., littleredwasp.com
Two-Piece Dark Fried Chicken Plate, Gus's Fried Chicken ($6.95)
Gus's serves everything you'd expect from delicious fried chicken: savory, crunchy and juicy. The two-piece dark is served with carefully crafted baked beans, tart and crunchy coleslaw, and white bread that acts as a savor-sopping sponge. 1067 W. Magnolia Ave., gusfriedchicken.com
Cappellacci, Nonna Tata ($21.50)
Offering authentic Italian fare - you won't find all-you-can-eat breadsticks here - chef Donatella Trotti frequently returns home, where she finds inspiration for new items to add to her menu. We're currently crushing on Trotti's Cappellacci - pasta filled with sausage, spinach, Parmesan and beef that has been braised in red wine. 1400 W. Magnolia Ave., nonnatata.com
Chicken Pot Pie, Brewed ($12)
Despite being one of the 24 U.S. coffee shops to visit before you die, we'd be kidding ourselves if we didn't mention the Chicken Pot Pie. Classically served with all root vegetables hidden in a savory pocket of creamy sauce beneath a heavenly sheath of crusty goodness, the Chicken Pot Pie is so good you might just order another. 801 W. Magnolia Ave., brewedfw.com
Cowboy Ribeye, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse ($56)
Ruth's Chris has perfected the broiling method and seasoning techniques to make sure every cut of USDA prime beef arrives cooked to perfection and sizzling on a 500-degree plate. The Cowboy Ribeye is 22 ounces of juicy, perfectly marbled rib steak simply seasoned and mouthwateringly delicious. 813 Main St., ruthschris.com
Duck Kra Prow, Spice ($19)
For those who are new to Thai food, the Duck Kra Prow - roasted duck topped with a house special sauce, basil leaves, fresh chili, jalapeño and red bell pepper - is a great dish to initiate your new addiction. You wouldn't find anything more authentic in all of Bangkok. 411 W. Magnolia Ave., spicedfw.com
French Dip, JR's Steak and Grill ($14.50)
While best known for its steak and seafood options, we love JR's sandwiches and believe it has the best French Dip in North Texas. The thinly shaved prime rib is cradled between crusty sourdough bread and topped with melted Provolone cheese, caramelized onions and served with au jus. 5400 Highway 121, Colleyville, jrssteaks.com
Chopped Beef Sandwich, Bailey's Bar-B-Que, ($8.99)
A classic is a classic for a reason, and we certainly won't argue the greatness of Bailey's Bar-B-Que's chopped beef sandwich - oak-smoked brisket served on a Mrs. Baird's bun. You'll immediately taste why this establishment remains untouched since 1931. 826 Taylor St., 817.335.7469
Deconstructed Tuna Salad, Press Café ($16)
Press Café's Deconstructed Tuna Salad puts a new twist on an old classic with whipped tuna, tomato, Port Salut cheese and a side of fresh fruit. In addition to the food, locals are drawn to Press Café because of its chill ambiance. 4801 Edwards Ranch Road, presscafeftworth.com
Three Mushroom, Spice ($11)
For the ultimate fungi experience, order the Three Mushroom dish at Spice. They stir-fry three kinds of fresh mushrooms and toss it in their house mushroom sauce. It's a vegetarian's dream. 411 W. Magnolia Ave., spicedfw.com
The Delancey Signature Sandwich, B&B Butchers & Restaurant ($14)
Tom Farrell, B&B's butcher and operations director, meticulously researches each product brought into the shop, which is very evident in the Delancey Signature Sandwich that features hot pastrami or corn beef on rye with deli mustard. 5212 Marathon Ave., bbbutchers.com
Jackfruit Street Tacos, Garden Market & Bistro ($14)
Garden Market & Bistro's seasonal menu highlights jackfruit as the star player in the Jackfruit Street Tacos. Vegans profess that this tropical fruit tastes just like pulled pork, and we can't deny it looks like meat as it sits nestled inside steamed corn tortillas. Tacos are topped with chopped cilantro, onions, purple cabbage and hot chipotle crema that adds a kick. 1280 Woodhaven Blvd., thegardenmarketbistro.com
Pumpkin Spice Waffle, Café Modern ($12.95)
On weekends, Café Modern, located in the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, offers a Pumpkin Spice Waffle - a work of art in itself. The waffle is topped with Texas pecan pralines, whipped cream and real maple syrup. 3200 Darnell St., themodern.org/cafe
Chicago Roll, 203 Café ($6.95)
Serving primarily breakfast tacos and classic sandwiches, 203 Café has a few creative concoctions like the Chicago Roll. This Chi-Town-inspired sandwich contains thinly sliced garlic and herb-crusted roast beef with house-made giardiniera (Italian-style pickled veggies) on a toasted hoagie roll. 215 Commerce St., Ste. 203, 203cafe.com
Lengua Tacos, Salsa Limón ($3 each)
Salsa Limón is a traditional taqueria in every sense of the word. Its Lengua Tacos takes beef tongue and simmers it slowly with peppercorn and aromatic herbs resulting in a buttery tenderness. Cradled in double-layered corn tortillas, tacos are topped with pickled cabbage, onion and cilantro. 550 Throckmorton St., salsalimon.com
Pollo Xochitl, Los Jimadores Tex-Mex Tequila Factory ($13.50)
As suggested in its name, Los Jimadores has an impressive tequila and margarita selection, and even makes its own tequila (Jimador) and puts it in some of its dishes - like the Pollo Xochitl. Pan-fried chicken breast bathes in the signature Jimador tequila cream sauce and rests on chipotle mashed potatoes and spinach. This is definitely the dish with the most spirit. 4335 River Oaks Blvd., losjimadoresfw.com
Ozersky Burger, Knife Burger & Bar at Food Hall at Crockett Row ($12)
Named for the late food writer and burger aficionado Josh Ozersky (who preferred his burgers simple), this burger will ruin all other burgers for you. There are no bells and whistles - none of that bacon marmalade or pimento cheese nonsense. It's just pure 44 Farms beef, American cheese and thinly sliced red onions. "Nuff said. 3000 Crockett St., crockettrow.com/food-hall-crockett-row
Chicken & Biscuits, Mash"d ($15 half, $18 full)
Mash"d serves up some crazy yummy Chicken & Biscuits. Tender, twice-battered and brined chicken breast is served with homemade double cheddar biscuits topped with "Chuck Norris" gravy - while we have no clue what's in that gravy, we can attest it's delicious. 2948 Crockett St., mashd.com
Krab Kingz Just Krab, Krab Kingz Seafood ($20)
We'll forgive some hesitation before buying seafood out of a truck, but Krab Kingz will make you wonder why you delayed even a second. This food truck dishes up our favorite crab legs, which contain a secret blend of spices that makes them addictive. 6901 Wichita St., Forest Hill, facebook.com/krabkingz3
Strozzapreti, Piatello Italian Kitchen ($19)
This carb-laden pasta plate consists of sausage made in-house, Brussels sprouts, panna and brandy. Saltiness from the sausage plays well with the sweetness of the brandy and caramelized Brussels sprouts and creaminess of the panna. We see clearly why Piatello has been listed as Best Restaurant in nearly every publication in Texas. 5924 Convair Drive, Ste. 412, piatelloitaliankitchen.com
DESSERTS & DRINKS
Margarita Pie, El Rancho Grande ($3.85)
Kicking traditional Mexican dessert fare to the curb, people come from miles around to get El Rancho Grande's Margarita Pie. It's perfectly tart and creamy with a flaky, buttery crust. Any time you can incorporate booze into a dessert, we're all for it. 1400 N. Main St., elranchogrande.info
Iced Sea Salt Jasmine Green Tea, 85°C Bakery Café ($3 medium, $3.50 large)
While 85°C Bakery Café's name symbolizes its devotion to provide coffee of the highest quality, it puts that same devotion to quality in its teas too. We love the Iced Sea Salt Jasmine Green Tea - it's vibrant with hints of floral, and the addition of sea salt sets off a sensory explosion in your mouth. 628 Harrold St., Ste. 140, 85cbakerycafe.com
Warm Ancho Chile Chocolate Cake, Lonesome Dove Bistro ($10)
Pairing chilies with chocolate is nothing new, but Lonesome Dove's Warm Ancho Chocolate Cake is a delectable work of art. With each bite, subtle hints of ancho chile from the warm rich chocolate cake stimulate the back of the palate, and the cool vanilla ice cream and crunchy smoked almond brittle enhance the experience. 2406 N. Main St., lonesomedovebistro.com
Sweet N Salty Edible Cookie Dough, Lumi Snow Company ($3.50 scoop, $6.50 two scoops)
After months of testing recipes, Lumi came across the perfect balance between ice cream and shaved ice; something they call "snow cream." While they offer a bevy of seasonal flavors, our favorite remains the edible cookie dough for its amazing texture and perfect punch of sweetness. 8245 Precinct Line Road, Ste. 110, North Richland Hills, lumisnow.com
Smoked Dog, Shinjuku Station ($9)
This Near Southside favorite serves traditional Japanese cuisine in izakaya style, while its full bar serves up hand-crafted cocktails. The most exotic of the specialty drinks is the Smoked Dog. Tito's Vodka is shaken with pressed grapefruit juice, a hint of ginger and smoked salt. 711 W. Magnolia Ave., shinjuku-station.com
Moontang, Rodeo Goat ($7)
The restaurant's original frozen drink, the Moontang, includes Firefly Moonshine blended with Tang and "other things." While unsure of its "other things," it still hits the spot. 2836 Bledsoe St., rodeogoat.com
Strawberry Habanero Margarita, Wild Salsa ($13)
Wild Salsa's Strawberry Habanero Margarita packs a serious punch and brilliantly blends together Avion Silver Tequila, habanero syrup and strawberry puree. Don't let the drink's fruity looks fool you; it's got a fiery side. 300 Throckmorton St., wildsalsarestaurant.com
Pecan Cobbler With Blue Bell Ice Cream, Cokers BBQ ($5.49 cobbler, $1.50 ice cream) Tip: Don't overload on the barbecue at Cokers because you need to save room for dessert. The Pecan Cobbler is like pecan pie but on steroids, and if you spend an extra buck and a half, you can have a scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream on top. 2612 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, cokersbbq.com
The Bacon Cookie, B&B Butchers & Restaurant ($11)
One look at B&B's menu, and you'll likely notice a slight fascination with bacon, which even makes its way to the dessert menu. The Bacon Cookie treat at B&B mixes chocolate chips, candied bacon, chocolate sauce and vanilla gelato. It's the sweet/savory trend that we hope will never go away. 5212 Marathon Ave., bbbutchers.com
Bloody Mary, Lucile's Stateside Bistro ($8.66)
With a hefty dose of tomato juice and V-8, it's not farfetched to classify Lucile's Bloody Mary as health food. Served with quality vodka and Tabasco and Worcestershire sauces, its winning combination of spices makes it no wonder you'll be seeing red on just about every table during brunch. 4700 Camp Bowie Blvd., lucilesstatesidebistro.com
Adult Milkshake, Del Frisco's Grille ($12)
This off-the-menu concoction serves as a sort of dessert/drink hybrid. Sip slowly on the cold, sweet and creamy creation comprised of earthy Walnut Liqueur, sweet and savory chocolate liqueur and just the right amount of delicious vanilla ice cream. 154 East Third St., delfriscosgrille.com
Poached Pear Galette, Black Rooster Café ($6)
Trying to narrow down Black Rooster Café's pastries to just one favorite was a herculean task, but we'd have to go with the Poached Pear Galette. It's not just sinfully sweet, but it's also beautiful and would make it the envy of any dinner party. 6333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Ste. 204, roosterbakery.com
Chocolate Raspberry Ganache, McKinley's Fine Bakery and Café ($18.99, 4-inch)
Preservatives are the enemy at McKinley's Fine Bakery and Café, where everything is made from scratch. The Chocolate Raspberry Ganache cake is layered with chocolate buttercream and raspberry filling, then covered with chocolate ganache - a chocoholic's dream come true. 1616 S. University Drive, Ste. 301, mckinleysbakery.com
Buttermilk Pie, Paris Coffee Shop ($3.50)
There's some kind of magic that goes on in the kitchen at Paris Coffee Shop to transform simple ingredients like eggs, buttermilk, sugar and butter into a custardy, heavenly slice of its Buttermilk Pie. Fork over 25 cents for an added scoop of ice cream. 704 W. Magnolia Ave., pariscoffeeshop.net
Honey Badger, Fixe Southern House ($7)
Fixe Southern House has a list of artistic cocktails that stands proud next to the restaurant's decadent food menu. Take for instance the Honey Badger. Even if you're not a whiskey drinker, this libation will wet your whistle with the additions of aged Old Forester, honeycomb and fresh lemon. 5282 Marathon Ave., fixesouthernhouse.com
This story has been updated from a previous version.
