Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
January 13 – February 4, 2012

This is the last full weekend to check out the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo which runs until February 4, 2012. My family and I visited last weekend and had a great time. This year the Stock Show has a free app for smartphones which provides helpful maps and schedules of the daily events.

We started off with the Rodeo at 10AM and then worked our way through all the exhibit halls. I’m as “city mouse” as it gets but it was fun to check out all the livestock and I especially loved seeing all the different varieties of roosters and chickens.

Of course you won’t go hungry at The Stock Show there’s food and snacks and beverages at every turn. We enjoyed our fair share of corn dogs, burgers, and funnel cakes. If you’re looking for a spot to eat nearby pre or post Stock Show or Rodeo check out my handy list of spots.

No Stock Show visit is complete without at least a walk through the midway.

Ok folks it’s that time of year again to shine your boots and get to the Fort Worth Stock Show. The Fort Worth Stock show begins this weekend (January 13) and runs through February 4, all the details can be found at the Fort Worth Show and Rodeo website. For smartphone users they even have an app this year. If you want something other than festival food when visiting the Stock Show or the Rodeo check out one of the many restaurants or Food Trucks near the Stock Show grounds. Here’s a list of spots (most withing walking distance of the event).

Food Trucks:
Fort Worth Food Park
Check out Fort Worth’s only food truck park if you’re headed to the Stock Show with kids or a crowd. With a choice of 6 food trucks there’s something for everyone. Very kid friendly. Check their schedule for details on the trucks. 2509 Weisenberger St. (behind the Target in Montgomery Plaza)

Taco Heads
Taco Heads Food Truck would be my go-to spot for after Rodeo munchies. Wash down their delicious tacos with a beverage from 7th Haven. Carnitas are the way to go. 2700 W. 7th Street (behind 7th Haven).

Sassy Hot Dogs
For late night food swing by Sassy Hot Dogs Food Truck behind Poag Mahone’s Pub for Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, and other yummy treats. 700 Carrol Street

Mexican Food:
Revolver Taco Lounge
One of my favorite spots. BYOB or BYOTequila (for a mean margarita). Order up a couple of rounds of tacos to go with their delicious guacamole and chips. 2822 W 7th St

Hacienda San Miguel
Hacienda San Miguel brings Modern Mexican cuisine to the W7th development. My favorites include the Seafood Chile Poblano, Flautas de Pollo. Don’t worry they also serve a mean ribeye. 2948 Crockett Street

La Familia
Home of the famous handshake as you walk in. La Familia’s cheese enchiladas and other Mexican specialties satisfy your Tex-Mex cravings. Kid friendly. 841 Foch

Gloria’s
Tex Mex dishes as well as Salvadoran dishes can be found at this popular spot. Nice Margaritas too. 2600 W. 7th Street.

BBQ:
Angelo’s
The Stock Show and barbeque go hand in hand. Angelo’s is a Fort Worth barbeque institution and some say Angelo’s is the best in town. You be the judge, try out a combo platter and be sure to include ribs. Don’t worry there’s beer to wash it all down with. Kid friendly. 2533 White Settlement Road

Railhead
This perennially popular barbeque spot serves up barbeque classics in a fun atmosphere. 2900 Montgomery Street

Upscale Texas Cuisine
Lambert’s
Lambert’s is the perfect spot for all you urban cowboys. Modern decor with cowboy touches such as saddles from the ceiling. The food is unmistakably Texas with grilled and smoked meat selections. The t-bone with enchilada and sea bass are my faves. If you’re really hungry check out their impressive Sunday Brunch. Small lounge area near the bar for enjoying cocktails.

Tilman’s
Tilman’s fun spin on cowboy cuisine makes it a perfect spot to hit before or after a visit to the Stock Show. Don’t forget to save some room for their table side s’mores. 2933 Crockett

Fast Casual/ Kid Friendly
Sweet Tomatoes
You’ll find soups, salads, pasta, and pizza at this family friendly spot. Kids will love the pudding and soft serve ice cream dessert options. 2901 West 7th Street

Great Outdoors
If you’re looking for a quick meal the sandwiches at Great Outdoors fit the bill. Kid friendly. 3204 Camp Bowie

Pie Five
Also in the family friendly and quick category check out Pie Five. The individual size pizzas are all priced $6.49 no matter what or how many toppings. Kids pizzas are $3.49. Look for their buy one get one free coupon here.

Italian/ Meditteranean
Patrizio
You’ll find hearty pizza and pasta options at Patrizio’s. 2932 Crockett

Fireside Pies
Fireside makes some of my favorite pizza in Fort Worth. Get here early because there’s always a wait. 2949 Crockett

Terra Mediterranean Grill
During the week they have an amazing lunch buffet. Their other menu items are delicious as well including the lamb chops and the roasted chicken. 2973 Crockett Street

Burgers:
Love Shack
Burgers get the Tim Love treatment and are delicious as well as a good deal. Kid friendly and appealing to adults as well with specialty cocktails. The outside space has plenty of heaters going during cold weather. 817 Matisse, Ste. 445

Magnolia Motor Lounge
You’ll find live music, burgers, and beer at this lively spot. 3005 Morton

M&O’s Station Grill
M & O serves up some tasty burgers. Thin grilled patties pack a lot of flavor, the California is my current favorite. Kid friendly and check out the Leonard’s Museum next door while you’re there. Evening BYOB. 200 Carrol Street, #110

Fine Dining:
Lanny’s Alta Cocina Mexicana
Lanny’s is one of my favorite spots for fine dining and a great stop before heading out to the Rodeo. 3405 W 7th Street

Cafe Modern
This impressive spot inside The Modern serves up a delicious brunch on Saturdays and Sundays (10AM – 3PM) and dinner on Friday nights. Also check them out during the week for lunch. 3200 Darnell Street.

Eddie V’s
Eddie V’s serves exquisite seafood dishes (the Crispy Cashew Calamari appetizer is a favorite) but don’t worry there’s plenty of steak options as well. 3100 West 7th Street

Bailey’s
If you’re looking to spend big bucks on a big steak this is the place. 2901 Crockett

Brownstone
Hungry cowboys can go for The Chicken Fried Beef Tenderloin or the Brownstone Strip (12oz New York Strip). Also look for late night specials from 10PM-2AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sushi:
Blue Sushi Sake Grill
This visually impressive restaurant serves up delicious and creative sushi as well as grilled dishes. I usually go with the server’s recommendations. 3131 W. 7th St.

MK’s Sushi
Solid sushi options available at MK’s. The Tuna Tower is a favorite. Kid Friendly. 2801 W. 7th Street

Breakfast:
Ol’ South Pancake House
A Fort Worth institution. Stop by for breakfast before heading to the Stock Show. Kid friendly. 1509 S. University

Montgomery Street Cafe
If you get an early start on the Stock Show, the Montgomery Street Cafe serves up a fine old fashioned breakfast. Homemade biscuits and anything topped with gravy will be mouthwateringly good. 2000 Montgomery Street

Wine:
Winslow’s
Winslow’s makes a perfect stop for a post rodeo glass of vino. Pre-Rodeo check out their delcious wood fired pizzas. 4101 Camp Bowie Blvd

Times Ten
Times Ten’s lush atmosphere makes for a great spot to enjoy some of their delicious vino. I’m in love with their Malbec. 1100 Foch Street

Greek Food Festival
November 11-13, 2011
Friday, Saturday 10AM – 10PM
Sunday 11AM – 3PM
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
2020 NW 21st Street
Free Admission

Don’t miss the popular Greek Festival this weekend. In addition to all the cultural activities a big highlight of this festival is the food. Check out the menu here. They will also have pre-packaged frozen dishes that you can take home with you and feed a crowd. Also save room for their desserts and baked goods.

Keep on Truckin’ Fest
Saturday October 22, 2011
6PM – 10PM
Behind Poag Mahone’s Pub (700 Carrol Street)

It’s Fort Worth’s FIRST official food truck festival. So come check out some of the best food trucks in town all in one place. You’ll have a great selection of food to choose from:

Gourmet hot dogs from Weiner Man ( I recommend the crunchy dog)
Mexican Street Tacos from Salsa Limon ( Go with the El Capitan)
Fusion Latin food from Crazy Sister’s ( Their Mexican Grits are to die for!!!!)
Damn Fine Tacos from Tacoheads ( The Carnitas Tacos won’t let you down)
Cupcakes from Red Jett Sweets ( for your sugar fix)

There will be live music by Brandon Thomas, Antonio Wicker, Wicked Messengers, and Dirty Pool. What a great way to get out and enjoy some of the cooler weather we’ve been having and support our growing food truck movement in Fort Worth.

P.S. I haven’t given up on my quest to check out all the food trucks in town. I’ve been checking out many food trucks over the last few weeks and can’t wait to share my experiences with y’all. In the meantime you can read my reviews on Salsa Limon and Tacoheads.

If you’re into wine and food keep an eye out for events outside of Fort Worth. A friend and I took the mini road trip to Granbury to check out the Granbury Wine Walk a few weeks ago. The Granbury Wine Walk provided a great opportunity to get to know all the local wineries in the area.

These events usually showcase the best local restaurants as well. On our visit to the Granbury Wine Walk we were delighted to find one of our favorite food trucks, Salsa Limon. Of course we couldn’t deny ourselves a quick El Capitan in between tastings.

Another wine and food event coming up outside of Fort Worth is Taste Addison this Friday (May 20 ) through Sunday (May 22). This popular event features food, wine, and music. Robert Mondavi wines hosts the wine events which include a Wine 101 tasting with Robert Modavi Private Selection Wines and the Wines of the Napa Valley, you can find the schedule of events here. Also check out the Robert Mondavi Facebook page for information about their Discover Wine Tour. Musical headliners include Third Eye Blind, Tracy Lawrence, and Chris Young – find all the details on the Taste Addison website.

Here’s a little something to get you through your Monday, think about strolling the picturesque town square of Granbury while sipping wine on a gorgeous spring day. Aaaah that’s better, so now make plans to attend the Granbury Wine Walk this Friday and Saturday (April 29 & 30) and that’s just what you can be doing this weekend.

If you’ve never been to Granbury take advantage of the Granbury Wine Walk to discover this quaint and charming town. The event takes place around the picturesque and historical town square which will also feature live music. Along with wine to sample you’ll find food from local restaurants as well as local herbs and produce. You can also browse through the shops and galleries while you sip your wine.

For all you tweeters out there, the only way to vote in the People’s Choice Wine Competition is through your tweets that end in the #granburywine hashtag. If you don’t tweet, like “Granbury Wine Walk” on Facebook an leave your votes on their wall.

Friday the hours are from 2PM – 8PM and Noon- 7PM on Saturday. Tickets bought prior to the event can be purchased through the Granbury Wine Walk website and cost $15. Tickets at the event cost $20. Proceeds from the event benefit the Langdon Center (arts organization). You’ll receive a commemorative wine glass, schedule of events and map. Look at the Granbury Wine Walk website for all the details.

Wine ‘n’ Dine Chef Spectacular
If you’re really into food, you’ll want to attend the Wine ‘n’ Dine Chef Spectacular on Friday April 29 from 7PM – 10PM. This celebrity chef VIP event will highlight the Texas Wines from the Wine Walk by pairing them with classic and contemporary cuisine. Four of our local superstar chefs will be serving a mouthwatering selection of dishes, here’s the scoop from Texas Toast Culinary Tours:

Asdren Azemi of Ruffino’s in Fort Worth will serve mozzarella pipettes,a very contemporary twist on the caprese salad; and zucchini blossoms stuffed with rice and tomato

Grady Spears of Grady’s in Fort Worth will serve pan de campo, a flatbread, with braised short ribs, a big hit at Taste of the NFL.

Denise Shavandy, founding instructor at the new culinary program at TSTC in Abilene is doing some of her signature Middle Eastern-Indian dishes, lamb chop lollipops with cilantro-mint chutney and lentil salad.

Lanny Lancarte of Lanny’s Alta Cocina Mexicana in Fort Worth will serve his chocolate marquise cake with black-pepper ice cream

Not only that, but you’ll get to witness the chefs in action as they compete in teams Iron Chef Style for a cooking competition that features a secret ingredient. All attendees get to judge the dishes to determine who gets the title of Spectacular Chef – how fun does that sound?

Tickets to the Wine ‘n’ Dine Chef Spectacular are purchased separately from the Wine Walk tickets and cost $85 per person, this includes all food & wine, souvenir wine glass and other gifts. Tickets can be purchased at the Granbury Wine Walk website. Part of the proceeds benefit the Dora Lee Langdon Cultural & Educational Center in Granbury.

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.

Friday April 23, 2010

Lola’s 6th
The Good Show Live Music Series
Record Hop, Dove Hunter, and Bridges and Blinking Lights
Doors Open at 8PM, show starts at 10OM, $8 cover
The Good Show Live Music Series brings us a stellar line-up once again. Record Hop, Dove Hunter, and Bridges and Blinking Lights are going to tear it up my friends! If you’ve been hibernating all winter come out and enjoy some great local music. 2736 West 6th Street Fort Worth.

Saturday April 24, 2010

Prairie Fest 10AM – 8PM
Prairie Fest takes place in the Tandy Hills Natural Area on the East side of Fort Worth. Here you will find 160 acres of untouched prairie land, nice hiking trails, a great view of the Fort Worth skyline, and beautiful springtime wildflowers.

Take a tour of the wildflowers with native plant experts from 10AM- 3PM. There will also be a plein air art competition. Music and children’s activities. Check out the Prairie Fest website for all the details. I’m looking forward to the Brave Combo performance at 6PM. Refreshments will be provided by: Potager, Longoria’s BBQ, Chadra Mezza, Rahr and Sons, New Belgium Brewing Co, Fuzzy’s, Times Ten Cellars, and Dons Dawgs.

Sunday April 25, 2010

The New Public Market Fundraiser at Lola’s 6th 2PM – 12AM
Stefan Prigmore
Darrin Kobitech & Clint Niosi
Gonzy Trevino & special guests
800 Mile Monday
Johnny Nitzinger
James Nored
Josh Weathers Band
The New Public Market is holding a fundraiser at Lola’s on Sunday. To find out a little bit more about the New Public Market and their plans check out their Facebook information page. You can also check out the event page.

Friday November 13, 2009

Glass on the Tracks 7:00PM
Vetro Art Glass Studio – Grapevine
701 S. Main Street #103

Main Street in Grapevine is such a quaint little spot, tucked in with antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants you’ll find an amazing glass blowing studio called Vetro. Vetro is located right next to the train station on Main Street Grapevine. They have a glass blowing studio and offer live demonstrations on a regular basis, check their website for hours.

On Friday they will be celebrating their 10 year anniversary and hold their annual “Truth or Consequences” auction. At 7:30PM they begin an auction of their glass art pieces. First the item is offered to someone selected from a drawing, they are asked a question and if they answer correctly they win the item. If they get the question wrong the glass art piece is then immediately up for auction, if the item does not fetch a bid that exceeds the reserve price within 30 seconds the glass piece is then smashed to bits. It’s quite a thrilling process when a piece is “saved” and when it’s lost to meet its fate with the concrete.

Arrive early to register and participate in this fun event. The event costs $5 per raffle ticket. Print out a sheet from their Facebook fanpage and get $10 worth of free raffle tickets. Live music, wine, and food will add to the festivities.

There are plenty of spots to eat and drink nearby on Main Street. South Prairie Oyster Bar, Big Fish, Tolbert’s and Esparza’s along with several wine bars that include Into the Glass, Su Vino, Tastings, and D’Vine Wine

Friday November 13 – Sunday November 15, 2009

Fort Worth Greek Festival
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
2020 N.W. 21st Street
Its time for Fort Worth’s annual celebration of Greek food and culture. Check the website for all the details. If you’ve got any sort of a hankering for some gyros head on over to this bluffside church on the Northside of town. Look for other Greek favorites such as moussaka, lamb, and spanokopita, the full menu can be found on their website.

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.