Eat Drink D-FW: Recent Episodes
Eat Drink D-FW
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is a lively conversation about North Texas’ food and restaurant scene. Each week, our food journalists dish, debate and analyze local restaurant news, food and drink trends, tips for cooking and shopping, and other obsessions (Buc-ee's, anyone?). You’ll also hear from chefs, farmers and foodies like yourself as we explore the people who make D-FW one of the most vibrant, diverse and ambitious food scenes in the country.
Talk back: We want to hear from you. Fill out this form or email us at eatdrink@dallasnews.com (mailto:eatdrink@dallasnews.com) with your questions, comments and what you love (or don’t) about the North Texas food scene.
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. All editorial decisions are made by The News.
Did you know that people in Mexico City eat quesadillas without cheese? Dallas Morning News reporter Imelda Garcia explains Mexico’s national debate over cheese vs. no-cheese quesadillas as the food team tries both kinds from Dallas taqueria Tortas Revolucion. The team also shares “the best burger news of the year” before cracking open their pantries to showcase the condiments they can’t live without, from spicy sauces to delicate dressings.
It’s pumpkin spice latte time! Yes, it’s still August, but the Dallas Morning News Food team discusses why hot coffee is still a must for some. Then they dive into the wild State Fair food winners of 2023 (what’s new on a stick?), and where to get affordable sushi in D-FW. But what to make for dinner tonight? The team has some shortcut ideas on everything from fresh ravioli to ramen to Jennifer Garner’s salad.
Why don’t we turn to nature more often to solve our food system problems? Texas farmer Thomas Locke, who raises heritage pigs and grass-fed cattle at Bois d’Arc Meat Company, joins The Dallas Morning News food team to talk about regenerative agriculture, water conservation, and why our food supply is actually quite safe. The food team also talks about small Dallas restaurants and bars making big moves, shares their favorite Dallas chocolate cakes, and tastes some smoked chips from Texas company Low and Slow.
The Dallas Morning News food team discusses the popular new Netflix documentary Poisoned, which shines a light on big gaps in U.S. food safety regulations. Are we really doomed, or is there anything we can do to keep from getting sick? Then stick around for lighter fare, like the top fried foods to try at the 2023 State Fair of Texas, fun new restaurants, and why one Dallas restaurant owner doesn’t want his customers smelling like weed.
If there’s a weird new food on the market, the Dallas Morning News food team will try it. So they ordered the mustard-flavored Skittles from the candy’s new partnership with French’s. Listen as they give their first impressions (which might involve a spit cup). Then stick around for fun restaurant news, from a new Fort Worth sotol distillery to breakfast trends to the - gasp - decline in Whataburger quality. You’ll also hear about the best things the team ate this summer, including Cuban cuisine, an orangesicle cake, tinned fish, and the most perfect chocolate chip cookie.
Girl dinner? Grimace shake? Barbiecore? This has been the summer of viral food trends, and The Dallas Morning News food team weighs in on which ones they love or hate. Or both. Then the team tackles the latest Dallas restaurant news, from a new Knox Street spendy spot with throwback vibes to a “glammy grammy” bagel shop in East Dallas and a Mexican restaurant in Lewisville that sells tortillas by the kilo.
This week is all about the drama. The Dallas Morning News food team talks about an ice cream shop feud in Oak Cliff, the latest on the city of Dallas’ Street Seats initiative, why The Bear is the best show on TV right now, and what Eat Drink D-FW listeners really think about "sheet meat." You’ll also hear the food team’s favorite summer food memories, from fresh tomatoes to “fruit pizza” to ... hot soup?
SPAGHETT! Bo Time! Sheet meat? The Dallas Morning News food team discusses everything from the hottest summer cocktail hacks to the cult of Bojangles chicken and biscuits. Then it’s time to get into some geeky food science after the approval of cell-cultivated chicken for sale at some restaurants. Is this the future of food? Does it taste good? Does it mean we can now make meat out of anything? This could get weird, y’all.
The Dallas Morning News food team has always been hot for Cheetos, particularly the spicy kind. Listen as the team crunches on the groundbreaking chip flavor (”it burns gooood”) and chats about Flamin’ Hot, the new movie about the man who reportedly invented the concept and is now known as the “godfather of Hispanic marketing.” June is also Pride Month, and reporter Imelda Garcia talks to LGBTQ chefs and the challenges they face running restaurants in Texas right now.
Cake or glazed? Filled or plain? The Dallas Morning News food team dives into some serious doughnut discourse after The Washington Post named Dallas a “national doughnut capital.” What makes Big D so special? It’s the diversity, from national chains to indie artisanal spots like Hypnotic Donuts. Then the food team washes it all down with a tasting of several refreshing horchata varieties from CocoAndre Chocolatier and Horchateria in Oak Cliff. From traditional cinnamon to a Texified pecan and a peanutty marzipan, the drinks bring back some sweet summer nostalgia.
What is it about smoked meats that makes people so litigious? The Dallas Morning News food team talks about the latest legal feud in the world of Texas barbecue, this time involving Lockhart Smokehouse and Crossbuck BBQ. Then stick around as Tom and Lisa Perini of the legendary Perini Ranch Steakhouse talk about cowboy cooking, celebrity visits, and why we should all eat more hominy.
Topo Chico is kind of a thing. The sparkling water has had loyal followers for some time now, including The Dallas Morning News food team, so they had to taste Sabores, Topo’s new line of flavored sparkling waters (in cans!). Listen as the food team gets burbujeante with excitement and gives honest first impressions. The team also talks about Dallas brewery Four Corners and how it’s going indie again, then dives into some reader feedback about the new Hamburger Mary’s drag show restaurant.
“It tastes like summer.” If Blue Bell Creamery has a new flavor, the Dallas Morning News food team is willing to try it, especially if it also involves Dr Pepper. Listen as the team tastes the new Dr Pepper Float ice cream and shares some immediate nostalgic thoughts. The team then chats with celebrity chef and Food Network star Scott Conant, who’s in town this weekend cooking up lobster rolls at the new Omni PGA Frisco Resort. He talks about which legendary Dallas chef inspired him at the start of his career, and if he’ll ever consider opening a restaurant in Texas.
Dallas Morning News food reporter Claire Ballor stepped in recently to help cover the deadly shooting in Allen. Listen as she shares stories and memories of families who suffered unimaginable loss that day, like the Cho family, who ate their last meal together at their favorite Plano diner. And if you know someone who is grieving or in need of some support, the food team also shares some ideas on what to bring. Sometimes it’s Pedialyte, sometimes it’s soup ingredients, sometimes it’s an amazing loaf of bread, sometimes it’s tres leches cake, and sometimes it’s just a hug or a shoulder to cry on.
Is breakfast better sweet or savory? Where does Blue Bell stack up in the ice cream sphere? Should steak be fried? Should anything be fried?
Our Food team, with a special appearance from Dallas Morning News managing editor Amy Hollyfield, share their most unpopular food opinions.
They also compare their results from a “food disgust test” and their thoughts on moldy marmalade and bugs on fruit.
Fort Worth legend and living encyclopedia Bud Kennedy joins the show to talk about his own journey from eating “coaches food” as a sports writer to penning the longtime Eats Beat column for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. He also dives into the evolution of the Fort Worth food scene, from its place as the headquarters of regional Texas cuisine to making room for new cuisines and ideas: “Fort Worth is a different kind of real food city. The food has to be good and the prices have to be realistic.” The Dallas Morning News food team then talks about the new Barsotti’s restaurant and the end of Dallas’ red sauce saga, how an Arlington taco shop may get the city to change its mural policy, and a new late-night vegan burger shop coming to Deep Ellum.
Hear food writer Sarah Blaskovich explain why she calls Burger Schmurger’s Maverick the best burger in Dallas right now, and why no one’s really disagreeing with her. The rest of the food team has their favorite "extra" burgers too though, from a juicy Brazilian find to a jalapeño barbecue beast. But what to cook at home if you're trying to save money? The team has budget grocery shopping tips, too, from stocking up on tofu to buying (and cooking!) in bulk for your pets.
This week the Dallas Morning News food team laments the recent losses of a long-time Dallas brunch spot and a bold restaurant newcomer in Fort Worth. You’ll hear listeners share their favorite memories of Latin bakery La Duni, which closed on Knox Street after 22 years. What will owners Taco and Dunia Borga do next? And will it involve robots? Then Dustin Lee, owner of the recently shuttered restaurant Beast and Co., stops by to share why he thinks his upscale Asian-Southern spot just didn’t work out in Fort Worth, and why he’s looking to take his next restaurant elsewhere.
While artificial intelligence can’t actually eat or drink (yet), The Dallas Morning News food team talks through the impact of ChatGPT on the food and dining world, specifically restaurant recommendations. You’ll also hear behind-the-scenes tales from two very different Texas steakhouses: Historic Ranchman’s in Ponder, with its chicken fried steak and a woman named Pete, and Nick and Sam’s in Dallas, where a server named Benny makes fine-dining pressure look effortless.
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team discusses big ballpark burgers and more with Rangers Insider Evan Grant. Then they move on to fine dining and talk about the big D-FW restaurant showing in the James Beard Award finalist. Then the team shares dive bar memories from 50-year-old institutions The Dallasite and the Stoneleigh P.
Austin may have a fun food truck culture, but in Dallas, at least you hardly have to wait in line. Listen as The Dallas Morning News food team talks with special guest Samantha Guzman of Arts Access. As a recent Austin transplant, she has thoughts on why the Dallas dining “vibe” is a little less judgy. She also shares favorite dishes from her Dominican heritage, and how, as a new mom, she’s introducing those flavors to her baby. Then, stick around as the food team dips into the listener mailbag and finds some great road trip advice. Roadside jerky, anyone?
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team discusses the many different terms for ghost kitchens, and why diners are still trying to figure them out. Then they chat about the restaurant boom in Richardson, and how the city is drawing top talent from Dallas. Still hungry? Stick around for a dive into traditional Mexican foods for Lent. (One even involves sprinkles.)
In this episode, the Dallas Morning News food team celebrates spring break Texas road trip style. They share their favorite Texas stops for kolaches, jerky, and more, and they bring their favorite snacks to taste, including Mexican candies and Big Mama Pickled Sausage. And if you’re not traveling for spring break, listen for D-FW restaurants and bars that will help you at least feel like you’re on vacation.
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team welcomes new food and culture reporter Imelda Garcia. The L.A.-born, Mexico City-raised journalist shares how her mom makes mole, her favorite Dallas Mexican restaurant, and why she is still getting used to Tex-Mex. Then Dallas food historian Deah Berry Mitchell stops by to talk about the return of her Soul of DFW food and Black history bus tours, and why she wants to feed people “mentally, spiritually and physically.”
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team talks about Steak and Ale memories, fish sandwiches, and their new favorite kitchen gadget: the sushi bazooka. Then, Val Jean-Bart of Val’s Cheesecakes in Dallas stops by to tell his touching story about his mom and how he started his business. Then, the team talks about the best things they ate recently, including a life-changing potato sandwich.
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team talks about their favorite dishes from the recently shuttered Homewood restaurant, plus barbecue feuds and how “hospitality got so hostile.” Then a very special guest — Plano-raised actor Michael Urie — stops by while in town directing “Silver Foxes” with Uptown Players. Michael talks about his childhood memories at Chili’s, how he introduced friends to Whataburger, his favorite new Dallas restaurant (hint: prime ribs and martinis), and why he never forgets to tip.
In this episode, you’ll hear insider info on the new restaurants coming to Frisco’s PGA complex, what exactly a Bo-Berry Biscuit is, how a new Dallas company is trying to help restaurant servers get more recognition, and what the Dallas Morning News food team thinks of Texas Monthly’s “best new restaurants” list. Gaming Foodie and North Texan Alissa Nguyen then stops by to chat about her viral TikTok recipes, like her pho and sushi bake. And do you need some party snack ideas? (Always.) Try the team's favorite chicken wing recipe and listen to the best dip recommendations.
In this episode, the Dallas Morning News food team talks about the “new etiquette rules” when it comes to dining out at restaurants. Is your order too customized? Are you splitting the bill properly? The team then talks about their pantry cooking essentials. (You know, in case of another ice storm.) Then writer Sarah Blaskovich sits down with legendary Dallas chef Dean Fearing for a special conversation about Valentine’s Day, Southwest cuisine, how Dallas became a world-class food city, and which big celebrities made him tongue-tied. Dean also shares more about how his 22-year-old son is in need of a life-saving stem cell donor, and how you can help.
In this episode, Michelle Carpenter, Dallas chef and owner of Zen Sushi and recent James Beard semifinalist Restaurant Beatrice, shares how she honors the cuisines of both her Japanese and Cajun heritages. Then the Dallas Morning News food staff shares their favorite ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day (chocolate, of course), and talks about Reba (yes, Reba), current tipping etiquette, and why cars keep driving into Dallas restaurants.
In this episode, The Dallas Morning News food team turns the focus on neighborhood restaurants, those special places where everyone knows your name ... and maybe your order. Food editor Erin Booke and reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor discuss what makes these cozy spots so special, and share some listener favorites. Then guest Ron Ruggless of Nation’s Restaurant News joins to talk about big national restaurant trends, tipping culture, experiential dining and ... bugs? Speaking of bugs, the food team then does a kombucha taste test: Which ones win us over, and which ones fizzle out?
In this episode, the Dallas Morning News food team talks about the Vegas-to-Dallas restaurant pipeline, what they’ll order at Portillo’s, and why people just can’t quit Guy Fieri. Guest Kevin Gray joins the team to discuss how zero-proof drinks are kind of sexy now, and why it’s a great time to be sober. Then it’s on to the ins and outs in food for 2023. Ins? Casual French food, retro restaurants, veggie dishes and print menus. Outs? Butter boards, y’all.
In this episode, the Dallas Morning News food team talks tea with Rakkasan Tea co-founder Brandon Friedman, a combat veteran who learned about tea while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. He talks about why selling tea is “kinda like being a drug dealer,” and why it’s a “stop drink” that creates a sense of calm amid the chaos of war — or just your daily life. The team also talks to Tanner Agar, owner of Rye restaurant in Dallas, about his new 3% surcharge for employee benefits, and then you’ll hear from listeners about their rather inspiring goals for 2023, be it feeding hungry children or just learning how to park correctly.
The Dallas Morning News food team celebrates the last Eat Drink D-FW episode of the year by sharing their favorite holiday food (and drink) traditions, their favorite podcast moments of 2022 (pizza! Big Tex!), and what they want to talk about in 2023. Then they sit down with chef Junior Borges of Meridian restaurant in Dallas about the most meaningful dishes on his menu (and what his mom thinks of them), plus his own Brazilian beach holiday memories. See you all in 2023!
Dallas restaurateur Greg Katz of Beverly’s and Clifton Club joins the podcast to talk about how he “never says no,” even during the busiest time of the year, plus he shares stories from his childhood in South Africa and how he developed his popular matzo ball soup. Food journalists Erin Booke, Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor also talk about the cult of Chili’s Chicken Crispers and our new favorite Netflix food show, then we hear from listener Beth Holland about her Christmas dinner tradition.
The Dallas Morning News food team has officially shifted into “soup mode.” Listen as food editor Erin Booke chats with writers Sarah Blaskovich, Claire Ballor and Nick Rallo about the best soups at D-FW restaurants, and how we cook them at home. They also discuss why it’s so hard to get a restaurant reservation right now, and then chef and TV personality Vivian Howard talks about her Viv’s Fridges concept and what a “flavor hero” is.
Everyone has food words that give them that “ick” feeling. Listen as host Erin Booke talks with food writers Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor about the food words they love to hate. Can you guess which ones they are? And are the words actually annoying, or do just annoying people use them? Then writer Amanda Albee talks with Dallas chef Jessica Alonzo of Native Ferments TX — aka the “pickle Jedi” — about her most popular mustards and other vinegar-y treats. The team also dives into the Best Things they ate recently, which includes a cream cheese appetizer, a favorite dinner spot, and a kid-friendly cabbage soup.
Dry-brined or fried turkey? Canned greens beans or fresh? And how many ways can you potato? Thanksgiving has changed and evolved over the years for many families, but there are still some traditions we cling to. In a special Thanksgiving episode, food editor Erin Booke chats with writers Sarah Blaskovich, Evan Grant, Leslie Brenner, Nick Rallo and Deah Berry Mitchell about their favorite holiday dishes and memories, including how “my nuts are burning” became a family slogan. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
“Food insecurity is a complicated issue, feeding our neighbors facing hunger is not,” says Trisha Cunningham, president and CEO of the North Texas Food Bank. Listen as The Dallas Morning News food team talks with Trisha about the history of the food bank, why there is more food insecurity now than at the height of the pandemic, and how we all can help our more than 700,000 hungry neighbors have a good holiday season.
How long should you smoke a brisket? Do you salt and pepper, or use a slather? In this special bonus episode of Eat Drink D-FW, listen as Dallas Morning News food reporter Sarah Blaskovich hosts a barbecue roundtable with Joe Zavala, co-owner of Zavala’s Barbecue in Grand Prairie, and Lane Milne, co-owner of Goldee’s Barbecue in Fort Worth. They talk about what equipment they use, their different approaches to barbecue, and how they’re handling the rising costs of meat and supplies.
We’d all love to eat like an Italian every day, right? The Eat Drink D-FW team recorded at Eataly Dallas to talk to chef Paola Saglietti about her favorite holiday dishes and entertaining tips, plus what she thinks of Italian restaurants in Dallas. Host Erin Booke and writers Sarah Blaskovich and Claire also talk about the cult of Buc-ee’s, Dallas spots on reality TV, and food packaging that causes anxiety. Then we chat with Mike McCloud, president and CEO of the World Food Championships, about what it takes to judge 1,500 chefs competing for big money.
We don’t want to be James Corden, but sometimes you do need to send your food back at a restaurant. Listen as The Dallas Morning News food team talks about bad behavior in restaurants, and why it’s so hard for nice people to ever complain about their food. We also talk about the “cult of the restaurant kitchen,” why we all love olive appetizers, a new jalapeño popper dip recipe, and a great new lunch spot. Then we chat with Elizabeth Myong, reporter for ArtsAccess, about the role of food in the North Texas arts community, and why she thinks “Dallas has the best Korean food scene in Texas.”
Join the Eat Drink D-FW team for a special — and very spirited — Halloween episode recorded at spooky Dallas mezcaleria Las Almas Rotas. Owner Shad Kvetko tells stories about haunted happenings at his bar. Did that mummified monkey just move? And does pouring a shot of mezcal keep the spirits happy? Maybe. Host Erin Booke and food writers Sarah Blaskovich, Claire Ballor and Nick Rallo also talk about their favorite Halloween candies, and La Casita Bakeshop owner Maricsa Trejo tells us why she loves Halloween so much and what’s actually in her “Murder Cruffin.”
Will these viral pumpkin cookies make you the best new neighbor? Is breakfast soup really a thing? And what on earth does Flamin’ Hot Mountain Dew taste like? (It definitely looks like “windshield wiper fluid.”) Listen as the food team tries some new foods and shares a lot of opinions about them. We also then talk about writer Claire Ballor’s series — the best things we ate this week — which can include anything from homemade “hamburger helper” to a Costco sample or a special avocado nigiri. Have something great you ate? Share with us at eatdrink@dallasnews.com.
Everybody eats, right? Even politicians. And restaurants often play a huge role in how people get elected in Texas and beyond. Dallas Morning News political reporter Gromer Jeffers joins the food team this week to chat about the big midterm election on Nov. 8 and why food is so important on the campaign trail. What restaurants does Beto like? What does Abbott order? At which Dallas restaurants can you often find local elected officials? Gromer knows. Listen in, and don’t forget to vote.
From “It’s a disaster” to “I want this for my final meal” and “I don’t really like hot fruit,” our team did not hold back when trying and ranking the top 10 Big Tex Choice Award finalists at the State Fair of Texas for 2022. Listen as seven journalists — food editor Erin Booke, food reporter Sarah Blaskovich, audience journalists Ariyon Dailey and Sam Bonacci, product manager Britton Peele, our managing editor Amy Hollyfield, and producer Julie Fisk — let loose with some hot (and maybe kinda shady) opinions on everything from the horchata milkshake to a brisket biscuit and fried charcuterie.
Do you “get it” or not? Dallas Morning News retail reporter Maria Halkias talks to food editor Erin Booke and food reporter Sarah Blaskovich about the three kinds of H-E-B customers, what the biggest sellers were on the first opening day in Frisco (get the Texas-shaped chicken nuggets), and what’s next for the grocery store in North Texas. Then, Sarah and writer Kevin Gray talk about Belgian beer at the new Meyboom Brasserie on Greenville Avenue, and longtime State Fair of Texas concessionaire Cassy Jones gives us the scoop on those deep-friend collard greens.
Sometimes we are just too tired to cook — and too broke to order DoorDash. That’s when we grab our go-to burnout foods. Join food editor Erin Booke, food writers Claire Ballor and Nick Rallo, and producer Julie Fisk as we talk about the quick meals we put together when we are just OVER IT. (Hint: The freezer is your friend.) Then, we chat about hot dogs, our favorite movie snacks, and sit down with the founders of the Dallas Asian American Historical Society about how they are tracing the history of Asian restaurants in North Texas.
Brats or brisket? White Claw or Lone Star? Cowboys Insider David Moore joins our food team in talking about Texas tailgating culture. Where does Dallas rank? He has some thoughts. Host Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor also discuss the Great Coleslaw Debate, the two D-FW restaurants on the Bon Appetit best-of list, and why we love the Chilton cocktail.
The Eat Drink D-FWteam took over Pizza Getti in East Dallas for a special Pizza Takeover episode. Listen as hosts Erin Booke, Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor (plus producer Julie Fisk) talk about their favorite nostalgic pizza memories and their go-to pizza joints in D-FW. Then, Sarah chats with Pizza Getti owner Kyle Rotenberry about the 50-year history of his classic Dallas pizza joint. We also answer the most important pizza questions, too: Ranch or no ranch? Crusts or “pizza bones”? If there was a Dallas-style pizza, what would it be?
At new Caterina’s restaurant in Fort Worth, the staff takes your phone and puts it in a pouch so you can focus on your dinner. Wild. Join food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire as we discuss the experience and why it might actually be awesome. Then we discuss the racist incident that happened in Plano in the Sixty Vines parking lot and how the restaurant responded. Later, we’re talk about the Filipino food scene in North Texas with writer Tina Danze, chef Anna Swann of Ulam Dallas, and chocolatier Steve Smith. And how do you like your corny dog? Team Mustard or Team Ketchup?
Dallas can be a great place for celebrity spotting, from Kevin Hart playing bartender to Beto O’Rourke ordering a pastry at a cool coffee shop. Join food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor as they chat about other celeb sightings. Then, Sarah sits down with chef Julian Rodarte, the young new CEO at Trinity Groves, about his journey as a restaurateur (and how Phil Romano went to his first birthday party). We also share our favorite date night spots (no kids menus allowed!).
Did you know that Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs has vaudeville beginnings? And that they’ve had the same recipe since 1942? But they didn’t add ketchup until 1994?
Listen as GG and Amber Fletcher, the mother-daughter duo currently running the corny dog legacy, talk about the fun history of this iconic Texas tradition, how they’ve weathered the pandemic, and what big plans they have for the future. Reporter Sarah Blaskovich then talks about 10 new fried foods to check out at the State Fair of Texas this year.
Sarah, host Erin Booke, and new producer Julie Fisk also discuss other important food topics like the 5-Second Rule, Dr. Oz’s grocery shopping skills, and healthy lunch ideas.
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. All editorial decisions are made by The News.
In this week’s episode, it’s all about back to school. Food editor Erin Booke reminisces with reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor about what they ate as kids during school. Sarah had the healthy mom who packed veggies and never told her about Oreos, and Claire’s rural school didn’t even have a cafeteria. Erin was a hot lunch kid, and still craves those steak fingers. At Dallas ISD, the students have all kinds of cool stuff these days, including a chicken finger truck, cooking classes, and more. Listen as executive chef Trina Nelson of DISD explains how she comes up with menus that keep kids interested, full and healthy. Then we talk our favorite D-FW kolache spots, plus espresso martinis in a can. Cheers!
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. All editorial decisions are made by The News.
Did you know that there are more than 500 wineries in Texas? Food editor Erin Booke talks with Shelly Wilfong, wine educator and host of the podcast This is Texas Wine, about Texas’s burgeoning wine industry. Texas hasn’t always been viewed as a serious wine producer, but Texas wines are competing at an international level more so than ever before, Wilfong says. She also shares her favorite Texas winery road trips and places to go to experience some of the state’s best wines.
Did you know that The Mozzarella Company’s famous Deep Ellum Blue cheese was an accident? Listen as Dallas chef and legendary artisan cheesemaker Paula Lambert chats with food editor Erin Booke about all things cheese and how the Dallas dining scene has evolved over the last 40 years.
Erin also chats with reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor about sandwiches and sushi, and actor and temporary Texan B.J. Novak hops on to share his thoughts about Whataburger. (Don’t cancel him!)
Plus, Claire Ballor then talks about Carte Blanche restaurant and its chef, Casey La Rue.
To some people, grocery shopping is a chore. But to the Eat Drink D-FW team, it’s a joyful hobby. Listen in as food reporter Claire Ballor chats with Dallas Morning News retail reporter Maria Halkias about all the buzz in the grocery world right now. (Hint: HEB is kind of a thing, as are private label deals.) Food editor Erin Booke chats with Kevin Curry of Fit Men Cook about his favorite grocery shopping tips in Dallas, and Claire joins food reporter Sarah Blaskovich and our producer Nataly Keo to talk about their go-to cookbooks, and the best things they ate this week.
Listen in as chef Anastacia Quiñones Pittman of José on Lovers restaurant talks about her approach to Mexican food, and how Dallas has come to love traditional Mexican dishes like aguachiles and mole just as much as they love Tex-Mex. Food editor Erin Booke also chats with reporter Claire Ballor and producer Nataly Keo about restaurant robots, TikTok salads and chickpeas, then we answer a listener question about Pulp Fiction-inspired diners in Dallas.
Michelin just launched a multi-city restaurant guide in Florida, and the Texas culinary community is now like, “Whaaaat? What about us?” Join food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor as they discuss what it would take for Michelin to come to Texas, and what it would mean for our dining scene. Then, food and travel writer Kevin Gray joins us to chat about bar and alcohol trends (and what cocktails he would never, ever drink).
Everybody loves a potluck, especially this food team. Listen as food editor Erin Booke chats with reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor, plus our producer Nataly Keomoungkhoun, about summer entertaining and what dishes to bring (and which ones to avoid). Do you bring something cold? Something hot? Or go for dessert? Then Erin talks about the D-FW beer scene with George Esquivel, founder of Four Corners Brewing Co. in Dallas, as he celebrates the 10th anniversary of the brewery. Cheers!
This week’s episode is fun and feisty. Listen as food editor Erin Booke (Team Iceberg Lettuce) has a big burger fight (OK, mild, respectful debate) with writers Sarah Blaskovich (”I like squishy food”) and Claire Ballor (Call Me Caramelized). Then writer Nick Rallo joins us to chat about Italian food and which pasta his aunt packs in her luggage when she visits from New York. Then Erin, Sarah and Claire do a taste test of the viral “Healthy Coke” trend. We hope you like balsamic vinegar!
We’re all being asked to pay more lately when we eat out, be it a 20% tip at the coffee counter or a 10% service fee for to-go meals. Listen as food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor discuss the state of tipping and extra charges, especially during a time of historic inflation. Then, we’re joined by Brian Reinhart, dining critic at D Magazine, to talk about food and the Muslim community in D-FW. It’s an important focus of his work, and he details the different cuisines and dishes that are finding a home in North Texas.
It’s June now, and that means weddings are on the minds of lots of folks. And what’s one thing guests remember most about weddings? The food (or maybe, the open bar). In this episode of Eat Drink D-FW, food editor Erin Booke chats with our producer Nataly Keomoungkhoun about her upcoming Dallas wedding and how she’s making her food decisions.Plated dinner or food trucks? What to offer vegetarians? Brunch or no brunch? Chocolate fountain or champagne waterfall? Then we hear from listeners about their favorite foodie finds: Paula loves Monster Yogurt in Richardson (it’s kosher!); Susan is a new fan of elk tacos; and Kristie gives us the best tip ever: where to shop while drinking wine!
In this episode of Eat Drink D-FW, food editor Erin Booke talks with food reporter Sarah Blaskovich about her story on the Dallas restaurants we miss most. That’s right, these restaurants are no longer around, but still hold a special place in our hearts. The ones we miss most are either the spots where we celebrated important dates with those we loved, or where we just knew our friends would be hanging out. Then we hear lauded chef Dean Fearing, Rangers Insider Evan Grant, food writer Amanda Albee, and longtime reader Paige Flink share in their own words about the spots they miss.
In this special episode of Eat Drink D-FW, food editor Erin Booke talks with food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor about the stories behind D-FW’s oldest, most historical restaurants. Sarah talks about her research methodology, why oral history is important, and how wonderful it is that Fort Worth seems to preserve its dining history so well. Then you’ll hear from Gene Dunston, the 91-year-old owner of Dunston’s Steakhouse: He’s got tons of stories. And [spoiler alert], we also talk about possibly the boldest Shark Tank restaurant proposal yet, and if Dallas is ready for swankier dining dress codes.
There’s lots to love in this week’s episode of Eat Drink D-FW, from news on Dolly Parton and Mexican Pizza to TikTok videos of a copycat Raising Cane’s sauce. (Plus you’ll get a kick out of hearing us all pronounce “Worcestershire.”)
Then food editor Erin Booke chats with Cynthia Nevels of the local Soulgood restaurant about the vegan food scene in D-FW, and why collaboration and supporting others is key in being a woman entrepreneur of color. “I’m the Lizzo of the Dallas food scene,” Nevels says. (!!!) Then take a food tour around the world with former Dallas Morning News dining critic Leslie Brenner as we talk about her Webby-award winning cooking website, Cooks Without Borders, plus we get her always-interesting thoughts on how the Dallas dining scene has evolved.
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. All editorial decisions are made by The News.
Big restaurant openings this spring: Carbone, Clifton Club, Cafe Hunan, Akira Back in Grandscape, Dolce Riviera, Casa Rosa, Knox Bistro
Dirty Shirley! Are you into the ‘drink of the summer’?
Asian Grub x Krio Block Party 2022: 12-6 p.m. May 14 at Krio, 233 W. 7th Street, Suite 100, Dallas, hosted by Asian Grub in DFDub and Krio restaurant. Vendors include Beard Papas, Crack Brisket, An Choi (owned by same folks at Pho 544 restaurant in Murphy), Scoop N Buns, and 7 Leaves.
Other spots named by Vu Ly: Japanese cafe called Okaeri Cafe (also owner of Chelle’s Seafood Kitchen), Jollibee, Ober Here in Fort Worth, Ampersand Coffee in Fort Worth, Ari Korean BBQ, Shoyo, and Asian Nights in Haltom City.
Carne Asada Fest: May 29-30 at Gilley’s South Side Ballroom: carneasadafest.com. Vendors include Jazzy’s Tacos, Cheros Latin Kitchen, Serape Treats, BlackHeart Treats (concha sandwich), Pinche Smokerz, Ely’s Micheladas, and Stewart’s Roasted Corn on the Cob.
Grab your grub to go this week as we explore a lot of food on wheels. Listen as food editor Erin Booke talks about the new Dallas food truck rules with Dallas Morning News city government reporter Everton Bailey Jr., then chats with Deah Berry Mitchell about the relaunch of the Soul of DFW food and Black history bus tours, and why oral history is so important to learning about Black food culture. And for a special bonus, Texas Monthly Taco Editor José Ralat stops by to talk about “why there’s no better place to be eating Mexican food than in Texas right now,” and how Dallas fits into that. (We definitely need more puffy tacos.)
Move aside, Starbucks, “college kid coffee” is taking over North Texas. Listen as food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire talk about this new coffee shop trend along with other popular drink stuff we’re seeing, like non-alcoholic bar programs (and, by the way, why smoothies are not mocktails). Sarah also talks about why people love - and will miss - Herrera’s Cafe, the backstory behind Hard Eight BBQ paying money back to its employees, and how one restaurateur is helping refugees from Ukraine. Plus, we talk about our favorite junk foods, and why mac and cheese and Hot Cheetos might be the best combo ever.
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. The News makes all editorial decisions.
In this week’s Eat Drink D-FW episode, food editor Erin Booke and food reporter Claire Ballor talk about the biggest restaurant news of the week — from food supply chain issues to fried chicken and patios. Then they talk to special guest Casey Cutler, executive director of Good Local Markets, about the current state of farmers markets in North Texas. There’s more talk of chickens, eggs, strawberries (yay!), “backyard farmers,” hemp (!!), and how recent roller coaster weather has affected this year’s produce so far. Then, meet our producer, Nataly Keomoughnkhoun! She shares her food origin story of growing up in a Laotian family, and how her mom’s food made her popular with her teachers.
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. All editorial decisions are made by The News.
Dallas Morning News food editor Erin Booke talks with contributing food writer Nick Rallo about one of our favorite foods: sandwiches. And no, that doesn’t mean hot dogs. That’ll be another episode. Nick discusses the elements of a great sandwich and where to get the best ones in North Texas. Then we go on a field trip to Globe Life Field in Arlington with food writer Sarah Blaskovich and Rangers reporter Evan Grant as they sample new food at the Texas Rangers games, from alligator corn dogs (tastes like chicken) to vegan chicken salad sandwich (amazingly, also tastes like chicken.)
Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. The News makes all editorial decisions.
In our debut Eat Drink D-FW episode, food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor talk about the biggest restaurant news of the week — from crazy menu prices to big Fort Worth moves — before diving in to what’s trending on the food scene this year. What’s in? Excess and flashy restaurants (so very Dallas, but also, kind of a conundrum), and why we love simpler menus. What’s out? You take a guess. (It rhymes with Bot Thicken.) Then Sarah meets up with Texas Rangers insider Evan Grant at Loro in East Dallas to talk about why they always order way too much food. Eat Drink D-FW from The Dallas Morning News is made possible by Central Market. The News makes all editorial decisions.
In this special preview episode, Dallas Morning News food editor Erin Booke and food reporters Sarah Blaskovich and Claire Ballor discuss their beats, why they got into food journalism, and their "foodie origin stories" (including at least one latchkey kid who knew her way around a can of Vienna sausages.) Sarah also reveals how getting stood up on Valentine's led to her finding the love of her life at a pub on McKinney Avenue.