A chocolate, black sesame, blood orange, and chile dessert at FT33. (Photo by Rich Vana)
As the prospect of another week rears its head, we at Entree Dallas began to let our imaginations wander – an all-too-frequent habit - and started daydreaming of what foodstuffs and viddles might help us make the journey to Friday. We figured a few destinations might help provide a little culinary light to the Monday gloom.
Lunch
Sure, if Northwest Highway or 635 seem like a long trip North, then 121 might seem like a journey, but Downtown McKinney holds more than a few good places to spend some time. We find ourselves partaking in the lunches at Patina Green with great enthusiasm, as chef/co-owner Robert Lyford (who owns the antique shop/lunch cafe with his wife Kaci and mother-in-law Luann Van Winckel) seeks fresh, organic and responsibly raised ingredients for his dishes, often brought in by farmers down the road. The sandwiches change every day, depending on what’s fresh and in stock – except for Fridays, when you can find the BoB, or Brisket on a Biscuit: braised brisket on a house-made smoked cheddar biscuit with jalapeno-blackberry jelly.
Dinner
The well documented media lunch that FT33 hosted last week was a delightful affair. Matt McCallister’s new establishment focuses on seasonal, modern cuisine, and with support from Sous Chef Brady Williams and Pastry Chef Josh Valentine, the kitchen turns out well considered, inventive and tastebud-teasing culinary presentations. Add the charm and genuine friendliness of GM/Sommelier Ryan Tedder, and you’ll feel right at home in no time.
A sample(d) selection from Oh*Brownie. (Photo by Rich Vana)
Dessert
And speaking of McCallister, with all the talk about FT33 we thought it might be appropriate to point out that in the event you’re looking for a simple dessert after a meal at home, Oh*Brownie is still growing strong. Established by Iris McCallister – Matt’s wife – Oh*Browine can be found in local shops and markets around Dallas, including Scardello Artisan Cheese and Artizone. With 10 different types of brownies – including a gluten-free option – it’s a sweet, chocolatey, comfortable option for a quick dessert (or even just a snack on the road).
