Chef Point Cafe, the gourmet restaurant inside a gas station in Watagua, brings it’s nationally recognized food to the streets of Fort Worth. Literally to the streets, they have gone mobile with their Chef Point on Wheels concept.

Whether this is a nod to the food truck trend or just a way to help spread the word about their downright good, down home cuisine, it’s worth the trip to the Medical District to check them out.

Every Wednesday you can find Chef Point on Wheels at 1220 Pennsylvania Avenue from 11AM – 3PM (across the street from Harris Hospital and in the parking lot of Gordon Boswell Flowers). My husband and I went last Wednesday to try out Chef Point on Wheels. We were pleasantly surprised that by 11AM people were already placing their orders. Even though the sun was out and in full swelter mode that didn’t stop folks that work at Harris from checking out this novel lunch spot. Several had heard about Chef Point on Wheels through Facebook.

The menu is an abbreviated version of their gas station menu and looks to be focused on their “greatest hits”. We placed our orders of the “Sexy Chicken” and Creamy Pasta Primavera. The Bread Pudding looked tempting and a lot of people were ordering it. If you’re looking to eat on the cheap, the Burgers fit the bill at $5. The prices go on up from there.

Once our order was ready we took our food to our car and dug in. There was no place to sit outside, not that we would want to in the heat of the midday sun. Let me just say that it was one of the best car meals ever. The “Sexy Chicken” which was proclaimed to be “better than sex” on the side of the truck had a perfect crust and the most tender chicken inside. The fried chicken was beyond perfect. As if it couldn’t get any better the mashed potato with gravy proved to be a worthy accompaniment to the fried chicken.

The Pasta Primavera was equally sublime with nice chunks of summer squash and zucchini bathed in a beautifully rich asiago cream sauce. The portions were fairly large and we ended up with leftovers. Next time I will bring my own drink because I would have loved some sweet iced tea instead of the canned and bottled drinks they offered.

All in all a fantastic meal and a great example of “gourmet to go”.

Chef Point on Wheels
1220 Pennsylvania Avenue
Wednesdays 11AM – 3PM

Chef Point Cafe in Watagua serves up Southern specialties as well as Italian dishes. Chef Franson Nwaeze has also introduced an “Acquired Taste” menu that includes adventurous dishes such as oxtail and and goat meat.
Chef Point Cafe
5901 Watauga Road
Watauga, TX 76148
817.656.0080

I’m loving Central Market’s celebration of Argentinian wine, culture and food going on now through May 25th.  Central Market is showcasing the food, wine, and culture of Argentina with special classes, celebrity chefs, and a variety of other events.

Check out the prepared foods area for a whole section dedicated to Argentinian goodies.  The Tartas, similar to a quiche, and Empanadas I sampled over the weekend were delicious.  They also are featuring meats topped with generous portions of chimicuhurri sauce.  The wine section features a nice selection of Malbecs and other Argentinian wines.  Also look for Yerba Mate tea and the special gourds Argentinians use to sip on this special tea known for its healthy properties.

The Central Market website lists the daily events highlighting Argentinian culture.  Tuesday May 18 from 10AM – 7PM they will host a mini San Telmo market featuring Argentinian crafts and gifts.  The original San Telmo market takes place every Sunday in Buenos Aires in the San Telmo district and is a gathering place for tourists and locals alike.

Later that evening Francis Mallman, famed South American chef and TV host, provides a rare opportunity for an intimate view on his cooking philosophy and cuisine.  Discover the different varieties of grilling and sample dishes from his cookbook, Cooking with Fire.

On Wednesday May 19th Central Market presents a Picada or a happy hour.  The Picada will feature an Argentine wine maker, Tango Dancers, a commemorative wine glass, meats and cheeses from Argentina, and Argentine appetizers.  Wednsesday’s Picada takes place from 6:30-8:30PM with Gonsalvo Bertelsen from Finaca El Origen.  $30 per person.

These are just a few highlights, take a look at the Central Market Event calender and Cooking School calender for all the other events and classes.

Photo of San Telmo Market courtesy of Wes and Rebecca Frierson.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Cafe Modern from Wednesday to Saturday as Chef Dena Peterson features a Curry Special taken from the book 660 Curries.

Author of 660 Curries, Raghavan Iyer, will be signing copies of his book at The Modern from 11AM – 1:30PM on Saturday February 6. You can pick up the book at The Modern’s Gift Shop. If you haven’t heard of this book it’s quite a thorough look at all the components of Indian cooking with an emphasis on curries from a culinary educator and expert in Indian cuisine.

Cafe Modern serves lunch from 11AM – 2:30PM. 3200 Darnell Street.

Friday October 9 and Saturday October 10

Musicarte
10AM – 11PM Free

This Festival takes place in Sundance Square and celebrates Latin culture through its music, dance, art, and food. Performance schedules can be found on the website.The Mercado de las Americas features artists from around the world, so visit the booths of this juried fine arts and crafts exhibition.

The Pueblo de las America’s promises to be a gastronomical feast featuring food from Ocho Rios Jamaican and Caribean Grill, embargo, Qdoba Grill, and Cantina Laredo Mexican Grill. The menus include jerk seasoned meats, empanadas, carnitas, tacos al pastor, and tortas cubanas. Beer will also be available to accompany the festival food. Bring the kids and stop by the Fiesta Kids Zone for arts, crafts, and games. Also join local artist Jo Dufo in painting a collaborative mural.

Friday October 9 and Saturday October 10

Bistro Lightcatcher Restaurant Round-up
Bistro Lightcatcher Winery showcases Texas ingredients to pair with their Texan wine made on site with Texas grapes. The menu features Texas ingredients such as Texas 1015 onions, gulf shrimp and oysters, check out the website for all the details. Restaurant Round-up is sponsored by the Texas Department of Agriculture and part of the proceeds of this event benefit The Tarrant Area Food Bank. 6925 Confederate Park Rd/FM 1886
Fort Worth, Texas 76108

Friday October 9, Saturday October 10, and Sunday October 11

Mid-Cities Greek Festival
11AM – 10PM, 11AM – 4PM Sunday
Opa! Fall means it’s time for the annual Mid-Cities Greek Festival. The pastoral grounds of St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Euless make the perfect backdrop for enjoying delicious Greek food and cultural performances.

Check out the website for all the menu details. I’m craving the comforting goodness of Pastitsio and Moussaka but spanokopita, gyros and other Greek favorites are on the menu as well. The food is plentiful and you will NOT leave hungry. 303 Cullum Drive, Euless TX.

Lots going on this weekend, definitely a disco nap sort of weekend.

FEATURED EVENT
The Good Show Live Music Series
Saturday September 26, 2009
Lola’s, $8
8:00 – Door, 10:00PM – Bands
The Theater Fire
The Whiskey Folk Ramblers
The Southern Sea

Every month The Good Show puts on a Live Music Series at Lola’s. This month they’ve put together a particularly stellar lineup with local talents The Theater Fire, The Whiskey Folk Ramblers, and The Southern Sea.

I’m a huge fan of The Theater Fire’s haunting, twangy tunes that make me feel like a wandering gypsy vagabond from another era. I fell in love with their whole vibe and sound at Midnight at The Modern last year. The Whiskey Folk Ramblers bring a unique folksy sound that ranges from Americana to vaguely Eastern European. The Southern Sea rounds out the evening with thoughtfully composed songs. I’m thrilled to be sponsoring the show along with my buddies from ILoveFTW.com and Group Three Productions. I’ll be there, so should you! Read more details here.

Grab a burger at Fred’s or The Love Shack So7.  J & J’s Oyster Bar serves up satisfying cheap eats, try the Po’Boy or the Grilled Tuna.  La Familia will give you a handshake along with your Tex-Mex.

Friday September 25

Central Market – Live Music on the Patio 7:00PM – 9:30PM
This cold front that just blew in makes for perfect patio weather. Enjoy live music by Tony Sommer (easy listening, jazz). Order some of Central Market’s signature burgers and grab a bucket of beers to go with that. If you have kids, the playground keeps them entertained. Top off your dinner with some of Central Market’s delicious gelatos.

Saturday September 26

Day in the District
Free Admission all day to The Amon Carter, Fort Worth Community Arts Center, Fort Worth Botanic Garden, Kimball Art Museum, Log Cabin Village, Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, and National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame. What a great opportunity to soak in all the culture Fort Worth has to offer. Look for performances happening at all the different venues, the schedule is posted on The Fort Worth Day in the District website.

The Kimball, The Modern and the Fort Worth Community Arts Center all have cafes, make sure and check them out. Last time I was at Cafe Modern I enjoyed the Summer Salad: Mixed Greens with Scott Farms Tomatoes, avocado, toasted pumpkin seeds, tortilla strips and tequila-lime vinaigrette.

Saturday September 26

Times Ten Cellars – Grand Opening
Times Ten Cellars has been in soft opening mode for the past few weeks. Saturday marks the official opening of Times Ten Cellars on Foch Street. I haven’t visited yet but tireless blogger Kevin Buchanan of FortWorthology.com stopped by to check it out. From the photos this looks to be quite a little gem.

Lambert’s provides light eats and they allow delivery from Rocco’s, Nizza, and Pappa Chang. A Marguerita Primo from Rocco’s along with a nice Cabernet sounds divine.

Saturday September 26

Kitty Wigs Invite

Glamour Puss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs – Book Release Party
Shampoo Salon 7PM – 11PM
What’s sure to become the next cat related phenomenon, kitties in wigs, and the book that documents it all. The product of Julie Jackson and local photographer Jill Johnson. Shampoo Salon hosts, read my detailed post here.

London’s Fashion Week has got nothing on the glamour that descends upon Fort Worth on Saturday, September 26.  Shampoo Salon on Fort Worth’s westside hosts a Book Release Party for Glamourpuss: The Enchanting World of Kitty Wigs.

Created by Julie Jackson, Kitty Wigs are indeed wigs for Kitties.  In these trying times this is just what the world needs, cats…in…wigs and a book chronicling the fabulous-ness of it all.

I’m not a cat person but I love how these cats manage to out-pose the fiercest of supermodels, all the while looking irresistibly cute.  Seriously, you have no soul if a kitty in a rainbow afro doesn’t make you melt.  These felines are made all the more bewitching with local photographer extraordinaire Jill Johnson behind the lens.  Jill Johnson’s always captivating photography shines in this tribute to the Glamourpuss.

The book signing starts at 7PM and the champagne will be a flowing.  Along with prizes for the best “cat-itude” there will be music by Mr. Champu, photobooth by Milton David, meow-mix girls (styled by my sister Ariella), and exclusive Kitty Wigs posters by Holding Pattern.  So come out and support local gal, Jill Johnson and check out the salon responsible for my shaggy coif.

Nearby eats include Tokyo Cafe (Review), Uncle Julio’s (across the street) or Hui Chan.

Kitty Wigs Book Release Party – Saturday September 26, 2009
7PM -11PM
Shampoo Salon
5316 Birchman Avenue
Fort Worth

*Kitty Wigs Invite artwork by Brian Mccorquodale

Ok, this is it – your absolutely last chance to get in on Restaurant Week. To recap, participating restaurants offer a multi-course prix fixe (fixed price) meal for $35 with proceeds to benefit area charities. Here’s the Fort Worth restaurants that have extended their Restaurant Week menus until September 6. The event is sponsored by KRLD and a full list of participating restaurants can be found there. There are still some great options available, so don’t wait-call now and make your reservations.

Aventino (until September 6)
3206 Winthrop Ave.
Fort Worth
817.731.0711
$15 for additional wine pairings
* Read my Review

Bistro Louise (until September 6)
2900 South Hulen St. #40
Fort Worth
817.922.9244
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Ferre (until September 6)
215 E. 4th St.
Fort Worth
817.332.003
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Grace (until September 6)
777 Main St.
Fort Worth
817.877.3388
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Ruffino’s (until September 6)
2455 Forest Park Blvd.
Fort Worth
817.923.0522
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (until September 6)
813 Main St.
Fort Worth
817.348.0080
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Silver Fox Steakhouse (until September 6)
1651 S. University
Fort Worth
817.332.9060
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Texas de Brazil (until September 6)
101 N. Houston St.
Fort Worth
817.882.9500

So I’ve made my reservations for Restaurant Week at Lanny’s Alta Cocina Mexicana. I thought I’d share the menu since Lanny’s is extending the Restaurant Week menu and price ($35) until August 30.

I’m so excited about this reservation because Lanny’s never fails to impress me. However, it can get  pricey so I don’t get to eat there as frequently as I would like.  Restaurant Week gives me the perfect chance to enjoy dinner without breaking the bank and it benefits charity as well.  I also hopes it gives folks a chance to check out a great restaurant like Lanny’s that they might not have tried yet.

First Course
Saffron Sweet Corn Soup, Duck Confit
Or
Seared Ahi, Cornichon & Cilantro Aioli, Baby Lettuce

Main Course
Rack of Lamb, Manchego Potato Puree, Asparagus
Or
Sea Bass, Housemade Angel Hair Pasta, Mojo de Ajo

Dessert
Cajeta Crème Brulee
Or
Valrhona Pound Cake, Peanut Butter Ice Cream

Optional Wine Pairing
$25

Central Market Fourth Course
Chorizo Wrapped Sea Scallops, Israeli Cous Cous, Vanilla Oil

For all other participating Fort Worth restaurants check here. The event is sponsored by KRLD and a full list of participating restaurants can be found there.

Hey folks hope you’ve secured your Restaurant Week reservations by now. Restaurant Week officially begins August 17 and continues until August 22. If you can’t wait until then some restaurants are having a preview weekend that begins Friday August 14 until Sunday August 16: $40 gets you 3 courses and a cocktail. Here are the restaurants participating in the Preview Weekend:

For all other participating Fort Worth restaurants check here. The event is sponsored by KRLD and a full list of participating restaurants can be found there.

Aventino (until September 6)
3206 Winthrop Ave.
Fort Worth
817.731.0711
$15 for additional wine pairings
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail
* Read my Review

Bistro Louise (until September 6)
2900 South Hulen St. #40
Fort Worth
817.922.9244
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Ferre (until September 6)
215 E. 4th St.
Fort Worth
817.332.003
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Grace (until September 6)
777 Main St.
Fort Worth
817.877.3388
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail
* Offering Central Market 4th course

Lambert’s
2731 White Settlement Rd.
Fort Worth
817.882.1161
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail
* Read my Review

Lanny’s Alta Cocina Mexicana (until August 30)
3405 W. 7th St.
Fort Worth
817.850.9996
* Participating in Restaurant Week Preview August 14-16 $40 for 3 courses and a Cane Rum/Gran Marnier cocktail

If you’re a Top Chef fanatic, The Love Shack in the So7 development is the place to be on Sunday (August 2) from 3-6PM.  The Love Shack will be hosting For the Love of Lamb Festival.  This is your opportunity to see Top Chef season 2 winner and hipster hottie Ilan Hall and Top Chef finalist and innovative chef Richard Blais as they participate in a lamb cook off with our own resident celebrity chef, Tim Love.  Other local chefs participating include Blaine Staniford from Grace and Chef John Bonnell of Bonnell’s and a few chefs from Dallas as well.  The festivities are family friendly so bring the kiddos (there will be activities for them).

Each chef will be serving a portion of their lamb burgers for you to sample – Hello!! Sample the goods of some really great chefs right here in The Fort.  What a great way to kick off the the opening of the new Love Shack which officially opens on July 31st.  The event is free but it is suggested that you secure a spot by RSVP’ing at loveshacklamb@baltzco.com.

Sunday August 2, 3PM – 6PM
The Love Shack
817 Matisse Ste. 445
Fort Worth 76107