Tillman’s Roadhouse brings Fort Worth an eclectic atmosphere and Texas comfort cuisine gone classy. Tillman’s recently opened with much buzz judging from the crowds and anchors new development along the growing West 7th corridor.

The Vibe
Tillman’s fanciful, over the top version of a Texas Roadhouse sets the stage for a fun dining experience. “I got friends in low places” blasts on the sound system along with other popular rock and country anthems that are conducive to letting the good times roll.

Check out the primitive tree pieces that mark the large bar area at the entrance of the restaurant, on cold nights a lucky few can snag a seat on one of the camouflage chairs next to the fireplace. Lounge in the “maw-maw” style parlor area behind the bar with an eye-catching turquoise oversize sofa and damask wallpaper.

Wood paneling and the cheeky taxidermy style animal heads that surround the main dining area create a rustic yet rich atmosphere. Oversize, sparkly chandeliers add a generous dose of bedazzlement. You can settle in on lush banquettes that feature throw pillows a-plenty. In the private dining area towards the back you’ll find birch tree trunks lining the walls and twig chandeliers hovering over tables that add a rustic elegance. Even the bathroom delivers a surprise with hundreds of horse prize ribbons lining the bathroom walls.

The Food
Dinner service starts off with “Popcorn and peanuts for all my friends”. Popcorn and peanuts drizzled with truffle oil and cleverly presented in a large steel scoop is the first hint of the haute take on humble roadhouse cuisine .

I have an affinity for Fried Pickles so I couldn’t turn that down as a Starter. The Fried Pickle Cup consists of a ceramic crumpled looking “cup” with pickles spilling out of the cup. The texture of the breading was pleasantly grainy and complemented the mustard. The pickles were cured in-house and had a nice bite and slightly sweet tartness to them.

Selecting the main course proved to be a little more challenging. Entree choices range from Main Street, Texas with an emphasis on local and regional ingredients. Tillman’s Classics are southern favorites given the “Tillman’s” touch such as Venison Frito Pie, Chicken Fried Hanger Steak and the Landy Burger which features foie gras. Dedicated carnivores can appreciate the selections from the Hardwood Grill such as the PGA ribeye and the “Texas Red Clay” Spiced Beef Tenderloin.

The sides seemed just as appealing as the entrees: Truffled Goat Cheese Tator Tots, White Cheddar Mac & Cheese, and Lambert-Noe Grits. The Lambert-Noe Grits are produced with Paula Lambert’s Dallas Mozzarella Company Goat Cheese and Metro Coffee. While I appreciate that these ingredients are local to Dallas I would love to see Fort Worth’s own Aduro Bean and award winning, Cowtown Farmer’s Market Vendor, Latte Da Dairy Goat Cheese included in Tillman’s dishes as well.

Eventually I decided on the special of the evening which was a flap steak with butternut squash puree and braised leeks with oyster mushrooms. The flap steak is similar to a flank steak in that it is a tougher cut of meat. Tillman’s did the flap steak proud with a preparation that left the meat tender and rich yet still with a chewy bite. The butternut squash lent a sweet balance to the heartiness of the meat and the deep, earthy flavor of the oyster mushrooms.

The meat-centric menu at Tillman’s ensures that it will be a success in Fort Worth but that leaves few options for vegetarians like my husband. He chose the Vegetable Collage of our Regional Growers. The plate included Fried Green Tomatoes and Fingerling Potatoes. Although it was good, it was not memorable. From the decor to the music to the food I feel that every detail no matter how minor has been painstakingly thought about and attended to at Tillman’s. So, I was a bit surprised to see a lack of a creativity in vegetarian options. The Dallas Tillman’s serves a meat free Roasted Poblano Chile Relleno, which would be welcomed on the Fort Worth menu.

Most of the deserts at Tillman’s are made for sharing. The cupcake carousel features cupcakes that you frost yourself. The real show stopper has to be the Tableside S’mores. Along with a little pot of fire you are brought house made marshmallows of coffee, orange, and maple, graham crackers, chocolate bark and skewers ready for you to assemble and roast yourself. What fun is that! On this visit since it was just my husband and I we chose a peanut butter mousse pie with maple whipped cream and candied bacon. The candied bacon made desert selection a no-brainer and provided the expected delicious salty contrast to sweetness of the pie.

The Service
The service still seemed to be getting through some of the opening jitters on this first visit. However, our waitress was friendly and fairly knowledgeable about the menu. She was able to quickly find out answers to our many questions. Aside from a small fiasco with spilled coffee the service was good. The host staff, though adorable, could stand to be a tad more hospitable.

Overall
If I could, I’d grab a blue first place Best in Show ribbon off the bathroom wall and award it to Tillman’s for the overall experience. I love the cheeky charm of Tillman’s where nothing is taken too seriously and whimsy mixes easily with nostalgia. The food is a high-falutin take on familiar favorites that make it approachable and fun yet still adventurous. Tillman’s is destined to be that “go to” spot, whether it’s for first dates, showing off to visitors, or any other special celebration.

Tillman’s Roadhouse
2933 Crockett Street ( at W. 7th and University)
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817.850.9255

Yucatan Taco Stand is a great spot for a quick and delicious lunch as well as a nice spot for an afternoon aperitif in the form of a margarita.  Today we look at this lively spot in the Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series.

Yucatan Taco Stand

The Vibe
A modern “taco stand”, with not a cheesy Mexican decoration in sight.  Instead you’ll find an urban look with clean lines and a slightly Asian flair (no Asian food is served though).  There’s a large fully stocked bar.  Outside seating under one of the several red umbrellas is a popular choice.

The Food
You won’t find Tex-Mex here, just a fresh, upscale take on tacos and other Latin dishes.  The folks that brought you Fuzzy’s Tacos push the concept forward into a more dressed up version while retaining some the some of the casual flair of Fuzzy’s.  Tacos come casually wrapped in foil and you serve your own drinks.

The Service
You order and pay at the front of the restaurant and your food is brought to you.  The cashiers at the front sometimes seem as befuddled with the process as the patrons do, patience is needed, after all you’re not leaving a tip.

Eat This
The tempura fish tacos are a must order item.

The roasted lamb cabrito sandwich makes for a memorable lunch especially when paired with fried plaintains.

The chile con queso are worth the calories and the $5, I could endlessly dip chips in this thick and creamy concoction.  If you’re eating on the lighter or meatless side the Grilled Vegetarian Bowl is supremely satisfying.

Yucatan Taco Stand
909 W. Magnolia
Fort Worth, TX 76104

Nonna Tata on Magnolia Avenue is definitely a draw for the food enthusiast.  Even folks from Dallas have been know to trek over to this small Southside spot to sample the true flavors of northern Italy.  This mini-review is part of the Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series, read my full review here.

Nonna Tata

The Vibe
Fort Worth is fortunate to have it’s own Italian Grandmother in Nonna Tata.  The small and sunny yellow dining room with rustic tables and stools, maw-maw-ish curtains, and mouthwatering smells coming from the kitchen is what I would imagine a Nonna’s house to be like.

The Food
If you’re looking for or are curious about the real deal Italian food then Nonna Tata is as close as you’re going to get short of jumping on a jet plane direct to Milano.  Nonna Tata  captures the true flavors of Italy.  By that I mean, they take a few simple, selectively sourced ingredients and combine them to make spectacular dishes.

The Service
The waitstaff keep busy for such a small space, so it can be a bit slow at times.  They are knowledgeable about the menu and too busy to hover (yay!).

Eat This
The ever changing menu at Nonna Tata keeps you coming back.  Start with the Antipasti Platter which is a beautiful plate of Italian meats and cheeses.

Enjoy seasonal specialties such as the Pumpkin Soup or Pasta with Butternut Squash.  Order the handmade gnocchi or any other handmade pasta if it’s available.

Finish your meal off with a slice of almond cake or some cioccolata calda (hot chocolate).

Nonna Tata
1400 W. Magnolia Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76105

When I’m craving greasy, cheese laden food – Benitos beckons me. This is not the place to go if you’re watching your weight, but who cares after a few margaritas. Benitos fills the Mexican food niche on Magnolia Avenue.

Benito’s

The Vibe
Colorful Mexican decorations dominate the wood paneled decor. Everything from the chairs to the Mexican blankets contain color and make this casual Mexican food spot a happy place. If you’re not smiling when you walk in, just order up a margarita and that will change.

The Food
If you have a hankering for a greasy spoon Mexican food spot, Benito’s fits the bill. Benito’s serves up homestyle Mexican food and it’s been doing it for a while at this Magnolia street location. I appreciate the authentic Mexican flavors and spices that can be found in the selection of popular Mexican dishes. This used to be a long-standing favorite late night hangout because the generous grease factor works wonders for absorbing excess alcohol.

The Service
A friendly gentleman quickly seats you and asks if you want iced tea or a margarita, well that’s my kind of service – keep it simple.

Don’t worry if you didn’t pay attention in high school Spanish, Benitos provides handy translations on the menu should you need it.

The service is efficient and the food comes out quickly.

Eat This
Enchiladas swimming in cheese should satisfy your Mexi food cravings. If you’re looking for something lighter, the ceviche along with the chips and guacamole is a good choice.

One of the many combo platters is a handy option when you can’t make up your mind.

Wash it all down with a potent margarita. Benito’s is one of the few Mexican food spots that charges for chips, but they are ever so tasty with their guac and salsa – so it’s worth the splurge of a few extra dollars.

Benito’s
1450 W. Magnolia Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76104

The Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series marches on. Today we look at Scampi’s Mediterranean Cafe, one of my favorite comfort food spots.

Scampi’s Mediterranean Cafe

The Vibe
Warm and cozy bistro setting with dark colors and comfortable booths and tables.  Painted brick and Italian Posters provide the decoration in this modest but chic spot. I would also deem this spot family friendly, which I’m always on the lookout for.

The Food
This family run establishment offers an interesting array of Greek influenced and classic Greek dishes as well as Italian entrees.  Owner Anne Shaw’s father runs the kitchen and he turns out some seriously soul and stomach satisfying food.

The Service
The service here is spot on, possibly the best service I’ve had.  The waiter was genuinely friendly and helpful, but not overwhelmingly so.  Water glasses were filled.  Questions were answered.  We were checked up on, but not intruded upon.  We felt like the waiter’s new best friends.  I could go on and on, but our waiter truly contributed to a great meal.

Eat This
Indulge yourself in the Italian Nachos at Scampi’s.  Fried pasta chips are liberally doused with alfredo sauce, Italian sausage, chicken, banana peppers, and olives.  Yes, this dish is as good as it sounds!  You could make a whole meal out this for two, if you also order salads.

Also try the Penne Gorgonzola with Tenderloin Tips, they have a pleasantly tart flavor without being too creamy.

The lamb dish was well prepared with a nice grilled crust. Nothing beats well prepared lamb and Scampi’s did it justice. BYOB makes Scampi’s a good deal as well ($5 corkage fee).

I love how Scampi’s is truly a family affair. Here’s a pic of owner, Anne Shaw (top left), and her family enjoying a great meal.

Scampi’s Mediterranean Cafe
1057 W. Magnolia
Fort Worth TX 76104

Lili’s Bistro on Magnolia is the restaurant we look at today in the Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series.  I look forward to trying many more tasty meals at Lili’s to give it the thorough review it deserves.  In the meantime, here’s a glimpse of what Lili’s offers.

Lili’s Bistro on Magnolia

The Vibe
Exposed brick walls and a vintage Mrs. Bairds Mural give this cozy restaurant extra charm.  The open kitchen gives you a peek into all the action going on there while not being distracting.  Lili’s has an intimate but energetic feel making it a great first date spot, in a nice but not trying too hard sort of way.    Outside seating gives you a chance to take in great weather and the action on Magnolia’s burgeoning pedestrian and bike friendly culture.

The Food
A wide range of menu options will make your dining choices difficult.  Lunch offers affordable and tasty selections that include their much praised Lili’s house burger.  Dinner options range from seafood to filets to lamb and delicious starters.  A selection of small plates (appetizers) makes a great meal to share with friends.  I appreciate the little details like the small bowls holding kosher salt and fresh ground pepper.

The Service
The service is friendly and knowledgeable.  With owner Vance Martin nearby you’re assured of a good dining experience.

Eat This
I think it’s obligatory to start every meal at Lili’s with their famous gorgonzola fries.

Lili’s turkey roulade is a popular lunch choice.  They serve a pretty sublime rack of lamb at dinner that would not be complete without a wine from Lili’s thoughtful selections.

I have quite the fondness for gnocchi and Lili’s serves up a delicious version accented by cracked black pepper flecks.  Also check them out on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays when select bottles of wine are half price.

Lili’s Bistro on Magnolia
1310 W. Magnolia Avenue
Fort Worth TX 76104
817.877.0700

Today we take a peek at Spiral Diner as part of the Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series. Spiral Diner brings the Town of Cow vegan cuisine full of flavor and rebellious charm.

Spiral Diner

The Vibe
Expect to be greeted by a quirky, eclectic vibe and kooky metal sculpture as soon as you step foot into Spiral Diner. The open aqua colored dining area has a bright retro feel with 50’s era tables, chairs and vinyl booths. One look at the crowded dining room and you’ll see Spiral Diner is not just for hipsters and hippies.

The Food
The food prepared at Spiral Diner is 100% vegan. That means they don’t use any animal products at all (no meat, milk, eggs, or cheese). As part of Spiral Diner’s environmental commitment they buy certified organic products whenever possible. They even post a list in the restaurant of the organic ingredients available for the week. I love that Spiral Diner has not sacrificed a bit of flavor in their commitment to serve 100% vegan food.

The Service
The service is casual and mostly self serve. Servers take your order and answer any questions about the menu. You serve your own drinks, such as the organic iced tea (made with fresh filtered water) or Blue Sky Sodas on tap. You also grab your own silverware and napkins.

Eat This
You will be surprised at the creativity and flavor found in the many and varied dishes. Meati-tarians will enjoy the Taco Salad or Jamaican Jerk sandwich. Kids will love the Sketti and Meatballs that tastes like the real thing. Try the Mediterranean wrap for a fresh treat in the summer or find comfort in the Red Coconut curry in the winter.

Spiral Diner
1314 W. Magnolia
Fort Worth TX 76104
817.332.8834

Today in the Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series we’ll look at one of my favorite Thai spots, Junsuree Thai House. If you’re looking for a spicy or a vegetarian meal Junsuree should make your short list.

Junsuree Thai House

The Vibe
Tucked into a Magnolia Street storefront Junsuree Thai serves up truly authentic Thai dishes. Look beyond the simple dining room and you’ll discover that the folks at Junsuree Thai focus on keeping Fort Worth fiery with their spicy dishes.

The Food
Enjoy the flexibility of the menu with the addition of chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, wheat gluten, or tofu to any entree or curry. The extensive menu offers flavors to please spice seekers and those wanting something more mellow. Junsuree Thai presents plenty of Vegetarian options with tofu or wheat gluten as an optional addition to just about any dish. They do not hold back on the spice if that’s what you’re seeking. I enjoy all the layers of flavor that each entree holds.

The Service
A member of the family that runs this restaurant takes your order. They are always ready to answer questions or give suggestions about the menu. Take their advice on spiciness levels, especially if you are not looking to set your mouth on fire. The servers will also provide glasses for your wine or beer since it is BYOB.

Eat This
Crispy veggie egg rolls stuffed with glass noodles make a great appetizer. The Angry Dish will only make you angry if you can’t take the spice. The Vegetarian version features crispy pan fried tofu and a sneaky heat that creeps up on you. The fresh peppers, onions, and green beans balance some of the burn with a refreshing crisp texture.

The Red Curry will make you slurp happily with it’s exciting mix of flavors that are creamy, mellow, sweet, and spicy all at once. With the addition of tofu, this makes a hearty and satisfying Vegetarian meal. Each bite of The Red Curry will leave you craving more.

Junsuree Thai House
1109 W. Magnolia
Fort Worth
817.927.3220

As part of my Magnolia Avenue Restaurant Series, I thought I’d start with the newest restaurant to grace Magnolia Avenue in Fort Worth – Ellerbe Fine Foods.

Ellerbe Fine Foods

The Vibe
This former filling station on Magnolia Avenue has been transformed into an airy, casually urban space with rustic touches.  The patio feels like a relaxing front porch that invites you to stay with colorful chairs and large fans to keep you cool on warm evenings.  The interior dining space evokes simple sophistication with white tablecloths and clean lines.

The Food
Seasonal ingredients from local and regional producers find their place on the menu at Ellerbe Fine Foods.  Ellerbe’s fills the Fine Dining niche on Magnolia so the prices are higher compared to the other restaurants on this street but completely worth it.  With write-ups in Gourmet, high praise from the Fort Worth Star Telegram, and 4 1/2 stars from the Dallas Morning News – Ellerbe’s deserves a visit.

The thoughtfully planned out menu highlights the best qualities of these ingredients.  Deborah’s Farmstead Chevre, produced in Fort Worth, is a delicious standout in a number of into menu. The Summer Melon and Deborah’s Farmstead Chevre featured this beautiful artisanal cheese.  The constantly changing menu accommodates available produce and ingredients.

The Service
The staff will knowledgeably explain all the ingredients and their origins.  Even in the midst of a busy dinner service the waiters maintain their composure and ensure that you are well taken care of.  You will appreciate thoughtful attention to small details such as a black napkin for patrons wearing dark colors to avoid leaving lint.

Eat This
The Homegrown Tomato Salad lives up to the name with luscious Carter Farm’s tomato wedges drizzled in rich buttermilk dressing and accompanied by a creamy Brazos Valley Blue Cheese and crunchy Hush Puppy croutons.

Brie Crostini and Bella Vista Truffle Oil make the Roasted Cauliflower Soup positively luxurious.

The Curried Lamb Chops were given just a tease of curry, which keeps the rich lamb flavor dominant.

Seasonal ingredients shine in deserts such as a Texas Peach and Prosecco Semifreddo.

If you’re looking for a down home, sticky sweet desert the Maw Maw Bread pudding is the way to go.

Desert paired with a pot of French Press coffee completes the upscale, Southern dining experience.

Ellerbe Fine Foods
1501 W. Magnolia Avenue
Fort Worth, TX 76104
817.926.3663

I’m not a beer girl, but I do like parties, music, barbeque, and hanging out with all the fine folks of Fort Worth on a Saturday afternoon.  Every Saturday afternoon you’ll find a party going on at The Rahr Brewery on the Near Southside of Fort Worth.  The Rahr Brewery provides unexpected festivity in an otherwise industrial area of Fort Worth.

$5 buys you a Rahr Glass which allows you to sample all the beers they are pouring.  They also collect donations for charity at the door.  There are several stations where you can get your glass filled.  We sampled Ugly Pug and Rahr Red. Despite not being a beer girl, I’m being converted.  I enjoy every Rahr brew I try, my current favorite is the Oktoberfest.

For a few dollars you can get yourself a tasty barbeque sandwich to pair with your beer.  Sandwiches are basic, just shredded brisket or sausage. They were a little on the greasy side for me, but all the better to soak up the alcohol.  I loaded my brisket sandwich up with jalapenos and onions.  Once you’re set with food you can find a place to kick back and listen to some twangy Texas tunes.

Remember the party atmosphere, I mentioned- well it gets crowded, real crowded.  There are picnic tables, but those fill up fast.  Old pros bring in their own camping chairs and set them up on the back dock-nice, next time I’ll have to do that.  Speaking of the crowd, it’s the wonderful mix that I love about Fort Worth.  Motorcycle dudes, a Rugby Team, families, guys in kilts, TCU students, and hipsters.

We fell into the family category and brought our two boys under the guise that the brewery tour would be “educational” for them.  There’s science involved in making beer, right?  Of course no beer for them, but they seemed to enjoy their sandwich, chips, and Sprite.  We did stick around for the actual tour of the facilities and I tried to nudge my older son every time a scientific or mathematical detail was mentioned. Parents of the year I know – hold your applause.

The cool fall weather we’ve been having lately makes it a perfect time to visit the Rahr Brewery on a Saturday.  Since it is a warehouse it can get quite hot and stuffy in there, but that doesn’t seem to stop people from having a good time.  I’m looking forward to enjoying a big ol’ stein of Oktoberfest on my next visit.

Rahr Brewery Saturday Tour and Tasting
Saturdays 1PM – 3PM
701 Galveston Avenue
Fort Worth 76104