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.

They say everything is bigger in Texas and that’s certainly true of the brunch at Lamberts. Lambert’s brings it big for brunch. I dare say it’s one of the best brunches in Fort Worth.

I’ve reviewed Lambert’s before and I’m a fan of their bold Texas cuisine. If you haven’t visited Lambert’s before you’ll find familiar Texas and Southern dishes given a little twist.

The unique brunch set up at Lambert’s makes it a standout and will guarantee you won’t leave hungry. During brunch you can choose from buffet items as well as order off their brunch menu, all included in the brunch price of $24.99. For a few extra bucks you can even get bottomless mimosas.

You’ll find the buffet items laid out in a rustically casual way. The buffet items on my visit included fresh fruit and salad. But forget that healthy stuff when you can pile your plate with some of the best migas I’ve tasted, bacon, roasted potatoes, and excellent prime rib at the carving station.

The buffet items will hold you over while you wait for any items you’ve ordered off the menu. The made to order items we tried were the omelets, french toast, eggs benedict, and green chile cheese grits.

The omelet I ordered was nicely prepared and filled with goat cheese, mushrooms,and spinach. The fillings did not overwhelm the tasty omelet and it paired well with the green chile cheese grits. You kind of have to order the Green Chile Cheese Grits. Even if you’re not a grits fan, they just might convert you. I personally think they’re heaven in a bowl.

The French Toast did not disappoint. Golden fried, thick cut slices of Brioche bread smothered in syrup and powdered sugar- hard to go wrong. My kids can vouch for their yum factor.

If you’re an Eggs Benedict fan don’t pass up the chance to try Lambert’s take on the classic. They come topped with Prime Rib and a Chipotle Hollandaise. If you aren’t feeling adventurous don’t worry they also offer the traditional version of this dish.

Leave a little room for their amazing desserts. The Coconut Cream Pie looked spectacular and tasted even better. Just a decadently delicious dessert with a sumptuous filling and a light as air topping. The Red Velvet Cake proved just as tasty as the Coconut Cream Pie with a pleasant texture – although I would’ve loved more of the icing on top.

If you’re looking for the ultimate brunch experience in Fort Worth head to Lambert’s.
The brunch at Lambert’s is truly a treat. We visited to celebrate my Mother-in-law’s birthday and it struck just the right note of upscale yet comfortable and casual. The food strikes a similar chord and keeps a balance between rustic and elegant. I’d definitely recommend it for special occasions or if you’re just looking for a culinary treat and a relaxing spot to enjoy time with friends.

Lambert’s Steak, Seafood, and Whiskey
2731 White Settlement Road
Fort Worth 76107
Brunch 11AM-3PM Sunday

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

Walter Kaufmann Chef Holiday Pantry
Saturday December 17, 2011
10AM-4PM
Ridgmar Mall (in front of Macy’s)
Twitter: Twitter.com/ChefsHoliday

Ever wonder what a bake sale with Fort Worth’s best chefs would be like? Wonder no more and come visit the Walter Kauffmann Chef’s Holiday Pantry this Saturday from 10AM-4PM at Ridgmar Mall (in front of Macy’s). This year’s Chef’s Holiday Pantry is sponsored by Fort Worth Foodie Magazine.

Local chefs prepare and donate just about any sweet confection you can imagine: pies, cakes, cookies, gingerbread houses, baklava, desert tamales, alfajores, and yule logs to name just a few. The list of participants is long and includes Black Rooster Bakery, Bonnell’s Fine Texas Cuisine, Reata Restaurant, Artisan Baking Company, Lanny’s, Stir Crazy Baked Goods, Red Jett Sweets, Blue Bonnet Bakery, Z’s Cafe, Colonial Country Club and many many more.

Proceeds from items sold benefit the Cooking Matter program of Tarrant Area Food Bank and the Education Fund of the Texas Chefs Association (Fort Worth Chapter). If you don’t plan on indulging on any of these goodies yourself these make great gifts for co-workers or easy items to bring to holiday potlucks and parties.

In case you’re wondering the namesake of this event is local culinary luminary Walter Kauffman who was chef and owner of The Swiss House for many years.

Fort Worth Food Park Grand Opening Party
Friday December 2, 2011
6PM – 10PM
2509 Weisenberger St. 76107

Fort Worth’s first Food Truck Park opens this weekend with a party on Friday. Look for local food truck favorites YES! Taco, Nammi Truck, Lee’s Grilled Cheeses and Red Jett Sweets. Also welcome newcomers Good Karma Kitchen and the mobile counterpart to Jake’s Hamburgers. Listen to some tunes by the Gary Kyle Band while you sip your FREE Rahr Beer. That’s right I said “Free”. This Food Truck Park has been the talk of the town for awhile and I’m excited that it’s finally here.

I checked out the space as many finishing touches were being added and look forward to seeing the final product with all the trucks in place. The Food Park is north of the Target in Montgomery Plaza in a light industrial area. If you miss the event on Friday don’t worry they will be open all weekend. Saturday’s hours are from 11AM – 10PM and Sunday from 12PM – 8:30PM. For additional information, check out the Fort Worth Food Park Facebook page and their website for schedule information.

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.

Cold Spring Farms CSA Fall Festival and Market
Saturday October 15, 2011
11AM – 4PM
3309 W. 4th Street
Fort Worth, 76107

Join Cold Spring Farms CSA this Saturday for a celebration of wonderful fall produce.

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture and is a great way to get local produce by partnering with area farmers. Our family has been a member of Cold Spring Farms for several seasons and we love the high quality, organic produce we receive each week. I also enjoy knowing my farmer, in this case, the lovely and hardworking Beverly Thomas. We never quite know what we will get each week but that is part of the adventure and fun of being in a CSA.

If you’d like to see what a CSA is all about and pick up a few other goodies make sure and stop by the Fall Festival this Saturday. Check out the delicious sweet treats from Stir Crazy Baked Goods. There will also be plenty of pumpkins, cooking demos, and face painting. Bring the kiddos and the pets for family and pet friendly fun. The event benefits REAL School Gardens in the DFW area. Also donations of canned goods and blankets are requested for the benefit of the Tarrant Area Food Bank.

Taco Heads
September 15, 2011
6PM-7PM $1 Tacos
2700 W 7th Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107 (behind 7th Haven)

Can you believe Taco Heads Food Truck is turning one?! They are throwing a party tonight to celebrate. If you haven’t made it to Taco Heads yet, try them tonight with specially priced $1 tacos from 6PM – 7PM. There will also be music by Latin Express. Giveaways include free tacos for a year for one lucky person as well as some Stunna Shades for the first 150 guests. T-shirts will also be on sale.

Fall Gallery Night
Saturday September 10, 2011
Check each venue for times

What better way to celebrate the cooling weather in Fort Worth than to wander around checking out some art during Fort Worth’s annual Fall Gallery Night.

My suggestion is to make this a moveable feast of eats and art. Along with my favorite galleries you’ll find some suggestions for eats and drinks near each art venue.

You’ll find the full list of official art venues at the Fort Worth Art Dealer’s Association website. If you plan on hitting more than a few galleries map out your picks and start early so you don’t have to rush.

Artspace 111
This gallery on the fringe of downtown exudes artsy cool. Maybe it’s the old brick building with pleasing open spaces indoors, or the interesting outdoor area complete with a sculpture garden – whatever the reason count on seeing an always compelling selection of art. 2PM – 9PM. 111 Hampton Street Fort Worth.

Make time for a cocktail on the rooftop of the Reata before or after your visit to Artspace 111. You’ll enjoy a great view of Fort Worth along with some cool breezes.

If you’re feeling hungry, head on over to Ferre and try out Chef Sean’s “Small Plate Menu”. The dishes priced from $3-7 (anything from hanger steak crostini, mini pizzas, crab bites) should keep you going for your next round of galleries.

Fort Worth Community Arts Center
This place always bustles with activity on Gallery Nights. The Preservation is the Art of the City show and sale supports local artists and benefits preservation efforts in the city. FWCAC also presents 2 other exhibitions that make it a worthwhile stop on your list: Demeter’s Faithful Iason by Jim Burton and Reflecting the Ride by Rick Mullings. 10AM – 9PM. 1300 Gendy Fort Worth.

If you are looking for a Gallery Night dinner spot near FWCAC I’d look no further than Lanny’s Alta Cocina Mexicana. Lanny’s introduced a special “Back to Life” menu for September that features 3 courses for $40.  If cocktails call your name stop by Blue Sushi, Eddie V’s or Michael’s.

Gallery 414
Don’t be confused when you get to Gallery 414, it is a house in a residential neighborhood. However, inside you will find an always thought provoking selection of art. Their newest exhibition Reality Check features contemporary figure drawings from five up-and-coming artists: Tristan DeBoli, Elizabeth Fieler, Juan Garcia, Kristina Townsend and Tyler Zimmerman. 12 – 9PM. 414 Templeton Fort Worth.

If you’re looking for gallery grub near Gallery 414 to keep you going this one’s a no brainer.  Hit up Taco Heads or the Trough Burger Wagon’s tasty burgers in front of the Durty Crow.  Both within walking distance of Gallery 414. You’ll get some great, fast eats and have time to visit more galleries.

Velvet Box
Find the works of artist Marshall Harris at The Velvet Box (upscale adult store) on West 7th. Harris’ detailed life size drawings on Mylar were recently featured in 360 West magazine. This buzz-worthy show makes it a can’t miss. 5PM – 10PM 2917 Morton Street Fort Worth.

Once again we turn to food trucks for any eats you might need. The Crazy Sisters food truck will be parked right in front of the Velvet Box serving up tacos, burgers, and sandwiches.

Artes de la Rosa at the Rose Marine Theater
View photographer Shannon Atkinson’s photographs documenting over 40 of the Rose Marine Theater’s productions. Also get the chance to become a part of the exhibit when you meet the photographer and have your photo taken as a part of the “I Am Artes De La Rosa/Yo Soy Artes De La Rosa”. 5PM – 10PM. 1440 N. Main Fort Worth.

La Playa Maya within walking distance of the Rose Marine theater provides Tex-Mex deliciousness and margaritas. La Playa can get you in and out pretty quickly with plenty of time to hit more galleries.

Rebecca Low Gallery
Rebecca Low gallery features the exhibit “Aqua Flow” by Patricia Naylor for Gallery Night. Other artists include Nic Noblique, one of the foremost abstract sculptors in the United States, Rebecca Low, Conrad Quijas, Kent Maris, Matthew Patterson,Scott Peterson, Michael Sibley and jewelry by Dale Ousley. Don’t forget to take a stroll outside to view the sculpture garden. 1PM – 9PM. 7608 Camp Bowie Fort Worth.

If you’re feeling hungry stop by Salsa Fuego. My favorites here are the Fuego Burger and the shredded brisket burrito, they also have a drive-through for quick service. They also have a small patio if you’ve got time to linger.

Sinaca Studios
Don’t miss the chance to see demos in Sinaca’s “hot shop” as their showcase of glass art from 4PM – 9PM. 1013 Magnolia Avenue Fort Worth.

Yes! Tacos food truck will be serving in front of the studio from 4PM – 6PM. Grab a refreshing aguas fresca and an assortment of their delicious tacos.

William Campbell Contemporary Art
Gallery Night kicks off an exhibition of new works by Kris Cox. Past exhibits provided a unique selection of pieces and this show should be no different. The upstairs gallery features a group exhibition. 2PM – 9PM. 4935 Byers Fort Worth.

You won’t have to go too far for food by the William Campbell. The Wiener Man food truck will be parked in front of the gallery dishing out their signature hot dogs.