"Angry Dog, Deep Ellum. This award-winning bar, burger and hot dog joint is truly a Dallas (and Deep Ellum) institution. For more than 25 years, Angry Dog has been serving up a no-frills, unpretentious, but always great menu of "sandwiches" including burgers, hot-dogs, and more to go along with their beers and cocktails. They've got killer wings to start with and if you are really hungry, go for the Chicken Friend Steak or take the Double Dog dare: Burger patty, ham, hot dog, chili, bacon, cheddar, grilled jalapenos, served with chili cheese fries. YUM! The games you want to watch are always on, and since they are open daily, there is just no reason at all not to have Angry Dog in your weekly rotation."

"Braindead Brewing Co., Deep Ellum. A relative newcomer to Deep Ellum, Braindead Brewing Co. is firing on all cylinders. This brewery currently has four unique ales brewed in-house. Additionally, their menu, featuring elevated "pub" style fare - includes a knock-out burger and pork chop, fantastic brussels sprouts - even duck fat popped popcorn. You had us at duck fat! Beyond just stopping in to sample the beers and enjoy good food, BBC has cool events, including beer dinners which allow visitors to taste a range of beers paired with a tasting menu. Follow them on social media for all the details, or just swing by - they are open all week - come back for the Sunday brunch - and the T.A.B.L.E. Sandwich (bacon, arugula, egg, avocado, aioli) if you've had a few beers there the night before."

"St. Pete's Dancing Marlin, Deep Ellum. With classic american cuisine and a top notch bar (including 50+ beers with over a dozen on tap) St. Pete's is the place that Deep Ellum devotees love for a great lunch with co-workers, weekend drinks with friends, or a night out watching the game. At St. Pete's you'll always find a great, eclectic crowd - from suit and ties, to scrubs and shorts mingling - patrons have flocked from the surrounding areas for 21 years! The food ranges from pastas and burgers and meats right off the grill, to fresh salads, and seafood. Friendly founder Pete Zotos is another reason that people keep coming back. Stop by St. Pete's seven days a week - you'll leave happier than you came in - and we know you'll be back soon."

"Pecan Lodge, Deep Ellum. You'd just be crazy not to visit this award-winning Deep Ellum BBQ mecca, just follow the mouthwatering smell (and the line) down Main St. When it was first announced that Pecan Lodge was coming to Deep Ellum, my heart and waistline began to soar. This is not only some of the best barbeque in Deep Ellum, but in our opinion in Dallas and Texas as well. We usually do a two meat plate - can't go wrong with brisket and pork ribs. If you are wearing your elastic pants, then go for a beef rib too - what the heck! Bottom line is - everything on Justin Fourton's menu from meat to sides to dessert is delicious. It's true Texas barbeque and that's just how we like it."

"Serious Pizza, Deep Ellum. If you are a pizza lover with a serious appetite, then you are not going to believe your luck when you enter Serious Pizza. A personal anecdote - one late work night we needed food for a hungry crew. We want TWO larges, we declared. To be fair - they warned us. Are you sure? It's a LOT of food. Well, let's just say we had no idea what we were in for. Just a slice of a delicious Serious Pizza is enough for one - maybe two meals. A whole pie? Well, you better bring a friend to help you carry it. But these pies aren't just huge, they are amazingly tasty. And just as impressive a feat is the guy who tosses the dough - it's worth going in for a slice just to see - and then, you won't have to carry the 10 pound box to your car."

"Uncle Uber's Sammich Shop, Deep Ellum. A Sammich and a sandwich are two different things. Uncle Uber's serves Sammiches. With resumes that include local faves Snuffers and Fat Ted's the owners set out to crate the mightiest of sammiches. The difference is that their creations are tasty new spins on classics. Like the Shaved Ribeye - or our fave - the Pork BunMe, with shredded pork, daikon carrot slaw and garlic mayo on a baguette. Don't let "Sammich Shop" fool you - the burgers and salads are hard to beat as well."

"Lula B's Antique Mall, Deep Ellum. You never know what you might find at Lula B's and that's exactly why you should go. Lula B's Deep Ellum Mall features dozens of curated booths with everything from home decor (movie posters galore) and furniture, great vintage records, vintage furs and denim, and even vintage brand signs (Marlboro, Phillips 66). The friendly staff knows the floor front and back and you can always work with them on a great deal for whatever catches your eye."

"Rocket Fizz, Deep Ellum. Willie Wonka's Chocolate Factory would be jealous of newcomer Rocket Fizz, the sweetest sugar shack your brain could dream up. Entering Rocket Fizz is like being transported to candy land - you can't imagine that so many fun, whimsical candies and treats even existed. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a candy "fried egg" traditional faves, or one of Rocket Fizz's private label sodas - there's even a "Snookie" Soda for Jersey Shore fans. You can also find amazing fun and nostalgic gifts like over-sized action figure cut outs, concert and movie posters. Swing by and leave on a sweet sweet sugar high."

"The Akola Project, Deep Ellum. From a Ugandan dialect, "Akola" means "she works". Inspired by a meeting with a Ugandan woman, a local SMU grad's vision to give back to women in need has changed thousands of lives in Uganda and in Dallas. This shop features jewelry: horn and beaded necklaces, colorful bracelets, earrings and more, hand-made by women in these areas, giving them a vocation and uplifting them, their families and communities. The jewelry and accessories are truly beautiful from the inside out. It's a great place to be inspired and 100% of product sales are given back to the mission to economically empower women."

"Murray Street Coffee Shop, Deep Ellum. Located on the east side of Deep Ellum at Main and Murray, this one-of-a-kind, two-story coffee shop gem is the perfect place to meet friends, work or just caffeinate. Serving breakfast (all day) and lunch (try the Insider -the only vegetarian sandwich this non vegetarian would ever order), Murray Street is a community favorite for its friendly service, top notch beverages and surprisingly great food (sandwiches, muffins and more). You'll probably see us there!"

"Twisted Root Burger Co., Deep Ellum. Twisted Root Burger Co.'s brings you bad ass built-to-order burgers with attitude, and we wouldn't have it any other way. From a traditional beef burger to bison or even (kangaroo?), with any topping you could imagine, you'd be silly not to be here once a week for a burger fix. Don't miss the fried pickles, hot dogs, and for those who might need a little kick - the spiked milkshakes (Banana & Bailey's? Yes, please.) Ditch your current identity - you'll know your burger is ready when the kitchen yells out your celeb alter-ego for the day."

"Cane Rosso, Deep Ellum. If you consider carbs your friend, Cane Rosso might be your soulmate. Serving authentic Neopolitan-style wood fired pizza and over-sized salads and sandwiches, we've never gone wrong with any of their menu selections. For something different try the "prosciutto e rucola" - a pie with prosciutto and arugula - no red sauce. The also deliver to select locations so you can have Cane in your casa."

"Glazed Donut Works, Deep Ellum. Mondays and Tuesdays used to be okay, until those became known as the days that Glazed Donut Works is not open. The key to a successful Glazing experience is to check their hours. One, you get the freshest donuts. Two, you don't want to get there late - they sell out of flavors fast! Glazed has everything from a classic old fashioned buttermilk donut - for the purist, to a maple bacon donut for the carnivore, to an apple cobbler donut for someone who, well, has better metabolism than I do. Stop in regularly and try their ever changing list of flavors. Stop in after a dinner or drinks night in Deep Ellum late night on weekends (from 10:30 pm - 2 am) and kick your hangover before it even begins! You won't have trouble finding it - just look for the bright pink sign."

"El Come Taco, Henderson Fitzhugh. As soon as you visit El Come Taco you'll realize its easily got the ingredients to become one of your "go-to" places. Physically, it is a colorful, family-run, Mexico-City-style taco shop. Emotionally, everything on the menu is crave-able. All of the $1.50 tacos are great and as you explore the menu give the more premium, yet fairly priced, Pollo a la Mexicana a try."

"Za*Lat, Henderson Fitzhugh. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. ZaLat is obviously a pizza place of which our neighborhood should be proud. Can they do classic pizzas with an interesting twist? Yes! Can they do new-age fusion pizzas inspired by Pho? Absolutely! Can they deliver 2 sodas and 2 candy bars for $4.20? You betcha! Get "The Crave" and thank me later."

"Barcadia, Henderson Fitzhugh. Start with the Skee-Ball and work from there. Barcadia is a delightful mix of well-known 25 cent arcade games, a patio full of Jenga, and a party that lasts until 2am. The beer selection isn't bad either."

"Beauty Bar, Henderson Fitzhugh. Dallas' iteration of the mid-century modern inspired salon/bar/club. DJs spin on weekends in a small but charming space that will make you want to dance your ass off. You've got to be in the right mood to go; but when you are, it never disappoints."

"Houndstooth Coffee, Henderson Fitzhugh. Texas is hot most of the time but that doesn't stop anyone from walking into Houndstooth. An Ikea-like use of space and some pretty good coffee make this neighborhood spot simultaneously a hangout and a daily routine."

"BuzzBrews, Henderson Fitzhugh. Whether it is 6am, noon, 6pm, or midnight...this place will fuel you with coffee and whatever type of meal you are ready for. Really great for a quick weekend brunch and a spot you should always have in your back pocket. It has the added fun of being in a Best Western parking lot, which is a story in and of itself."

"Strangeways, Henderson Fitzhugh. A neighborhood joint at its finest. If you and a friend want to chill, this is the place to be. It has plenty of space inside and out to catch up. And the food and booze won't disappoint. They have one of the greatest selections of craft beer in Dallas by pulling from breweries outside the north Texas area."

"La Michoacana Meat Market, Henderson Fitzhugh. A small grocery store that is simple, quick, sensory, and intriguing. There are La Michoacanas all around Texas and having one in the neighborhood is a joy. The shelves and counters are stocked with the stuff to make most types of authentic Mexican recipes. This is definitely not a Kroger and nor should it be."

"La Mariposa Imports, Henderson Fitzhugh. For almost 40 years it has been importing the colors and textures of Latin America. It may be overwhelming at first but as you study it all becomes magical. Honestly, I hope you stay long enough to immerse yourself in its beauty."

"Henderson Art Installation, Henderson Fitzhugh. They will probably destroy this artificial forest soon to put up yet another apartment complex. But while they still stand, these vibrant and inventive sculptures are are welcome break from the bars and restaurants that line the street."

"Velvet Taco, Henderson Fitzhugh. In a state where tacos start debates, Velvet Taco is a worthy argument. Pushing the limits is the M.O. here and they do it very well. Chicken Tikka Masala is one of the favorites but they are all good. And their WTF (Weekly Taco Feature) might lead them to something better and even more unexpected than the rest of the menu. Oh! And if you need a rotisserie chicken to feed the whole family, head for the back door and smoothly slip them some money. They'll be waiting."

"Sprouts Farmers Market, Henderson Fitzhugh. Step in Sprouts and you won't be disappointed. Rows of produce, meat, and beer will meet your eye. It's a great place to shop with the right balance of selection to get what you need but not be overwhelming."

"Bonobos Guideshop, Henderson Fitzhugh. Oh my the colors, patterns, shirts, suits, and jackets. At Bonobos Guideshop you can explore them all in what feels like a private shopping experience. Once you find a fit and style you like then you can go crazy ordering the exact piece of clothing you want online. Welcome to the new world of retail."

"Truck Yard, Lower Greenville. The commons area of Lower Greenville - an open backyard filled with relaxed seating, various food trucks and vendors, and an everyday beer selection to satisfy all tastes. The approachable space feels like an abandoned parts yard turned into a bar. Truck Yard is relaxed, the ideal spot for large groups, sporting events, nice weather - or hot weather - and is kid and pet friendly. You can even order a bottled cocktail in the treehouse. Come out on a summer day and enjoy a cold beverage - and maybe even some ice cream."

"The Old Crow, Lower Greenville. One of the older spots in the neighborhood - The Old Crow is perfect for karaoke, mixed drinks and beer, and a selection of classic bar games. Good spot if you're looking for a no hassle place on-the-fly."

"Single Wide, Lower Greenville. Everyone's favorite stop of the night - whether your first or last. Single Wide is a place where you can stop in for a whiskey or share drinks all night with people you know in the neighborhood. The place has a welcoming vibe and will grow on you as the night goes on. (It's also about the size of a single-wide trailer.)"

"Mudsmith, Lower Greenville. Lower Greenville's expeditionary outpost, whether your adventures are in books or conversations. This gritty cafe is gallery to some interesting oddities so be sure to enjoy a cappuccino and browse the eclectic selection (you'll find them around the walls and perched on shelves). If you can find a seat or couch on a busy Saturday morning you might even be able to enjoy some down time over a beverage or breakfast. Stop in to Mudsmith for coffee by day or beers by night. Oh, and the food isn't bad either."

"HG Supply Co., Lower Greenville. Lower Greenville's (arguably) busiest restaurant and rooftop bar. You'll want a reservation on the weekend for inside seating but if you're after some nice view of Dallas at sunset or night just head to the roof and grab a drink. HG (Hunter / Gatherer) Supply Co. is a paleo spot, tasty, and has a solid brunch scene as well. Ideal for a good meal or a large party on the roof."

"The Libertine Bar, Lower Greenville. Your number one place to cure that hangover with some brunch on a weekend. That said, you might have been there last night too because the drinks and dinner are just as good. Don't miss the painting of Lady Libertine in the front (near the door). This bar is a local legend and pulls rank on the rest. Pay respects."

"Good Records, Lower Greenville. Tucked just back from the increasingly-busy Greenville Ave; Good Records has been in the record game for 15 years and is still going strong. Chalk it up to dedication to the craft...they have very thorough collections of vinyl. You can peruse all day (there is non-vinyl as well), choose to just stop in for the interior's pops of color, or catch an occasional live show."

"Tacos Y Mas, Lower Greenville. Just a taco stand at an intersection with some seating built on the side...or so it would seem. However, Tacos Y Mas is pumping out some of the best breakfast (and non-breakfast) tacos in the city. And the Y Mas is great too."

"The Monkey Bar at Mi Cocina, Park Cities. Mi Cocina is a Tex Mex institution in the Dallas area. The Mi Cocina in the Highland Park Village is (by far) the most successful location of the franchise. It's great, don't get me wrong, but should you find yourself there, take my advice and carve through the action downstairs and head straight up to the Monkey Bar (located on the 3rd Floor). It's a chill, quaint little spot. An exhale from the Grand Central of pretty people just below. It's a really cool happy hour or evening perch, with friendly service, inviting decor and great light. Go here for a Tecate or Mambo Taxi margarita (watch out) and some Nachos Locos."

"Cafe R+D, Park Cities. A Hillstone concept, Cafe R+D just nails it. The very tidy, curated, but ridiculously diverse menu is so strong. Whether you get sushi, a tuna salad sandwich, or a filet mignon it's all delicious. Mid-century contemporary decor is amazing. Energy is palpable. Service is spectacular. Dinner is fine, but R+D is a great lunch or brunch spot as well. Enjoy."

"NorthPark Center, Park Cities. Let's get this out of the way...NorthPark is a MALL. Sure, it checks the box on most annoying things about malls: parking, getting lost, the hustle and bustle. But, this mall really is different. It was opened in 1965 and at the time was the world’s largest indoor climate-controlled shopping center. Well, the secret sauce is the gentleman that opened NorthPark, Raymond Nasher. The Nasher family is kind of a big deal in the international contemporary art community. So, what does this have to do with NorthPark? It doubles as a very significant contemporary art gallery as well. At NorthPark you'll come across amazing sculptures and installations from Anthony Gormley, Andy Warhol, and James Rosenquist. Plus, it's architecturally pretty rad, and the tenant mix is actually really good. So, if you have to shop in Dallas, strongly consider NorthPark."

"Shin Sei, Park Cities. The ladies (Tracy Rathbun and Lynae Fearing) that front this modern asian powerhouse are Dallas culinary royalty. This unassuming spot located at Inwood and Lovers Lane has a dark, loungy atmosphere, but is super fun. It's neighborhood favorite in the Park Cities. Once you grab a table, get busy ordering: sticky buns, brussel spouts, thai fried rice, miso black cod...and any sushi you desire. Really, all the food is damn good. The bar upstairs is a fun reveal as well. Check it. Bonus tip: For a good, post-dinner drink with a very laid back atmosphere, head next door to Inwood Tavern."

"Mr Mesero, Park Cities. Mr Mesero is the first reboot concept by Mico Rodriguez, author of the (very successful) M Crowd / Mi Cocina franchise. While the execution is familiar, it's different for all the right reasons. Mr Mesero has great service and is a fresh, young, fun experience with darn good eats. Mr Mesero's small space preserves a cozy energy for a crowd that is less Park Cities family and more Uptown fringe. Go there. Lock in your margarita order and then enjoy anything on the tex mex + american standards hybrid menu."

"Kuby's, Park Cities. Kuby's is located on the southwest corner of the very random Snider Plaza shopping center across from SMU. Kuby's fits right in with a random (but comprehensively great) offering of: meat market and deli, grocery store, wild game processor and restaurant. Oh yea, it's also where Dirk Nowitzki pounds beers when he's craving his bavarian roots. Go here for: breakfast or lunch, to pick up meat to grill, or just for a peek around."

"Carbone's, Park Cities. Italian. Done. Right. Jules Barsotti grabbed this corner space in the Shops at Highland Park and packaged this very light, deli / market look with killer tile, natural light, an open kitchen and let the cool ooze of Italian food / wine packaging fill in the blanks. But, as far as filling your stomach? Everything is really good. Killer meatball sammies. Delicious bruschetta. Incredible pastas. Fried raviolis. Light but wonderful salads. Wine? Yes. Glass or bottle? Your call."

"STAG, Park Cities. STAG Provisions for Men is the bomb. It started in Austin, but now has locations in Venice, Houston and (of course) Dallas. It represents this style and personality that is at the same time: enticing to buy, friendly to encounter, and interesting to peruse. The product offering is mainly men's apparel, but there is also a mix of gifts and accessories that will certainly extend your pop-in, grab and go to an hour of "floating". Check it out. The staff / service is also amazing."

"Highland Park Soda Fountain, Park Cities. Formerly known (also referred to) as "The Highland Park Pharmacy" this spot is greatness. Literally a pharmacy / soda fountain stuck in time (it's 100 years old). Here is where you order up the best grilled cheese and chocolate shake you've ever had in your life. Don't sleep on the chicken salad sandwich, the palm beach sandwich (grilled pimento cheese), or Frito Chili Pie either. Grab a stool, take a spin, indulge and plan a Netflix binge and a nap for after your visit."

"Inwood Lounge, Park Cities. Located inside the historic Inwood Theater, this bar & lounge is simply brilliant. It's got a black banquet / neon / deco / water-feature / martini swilling vibe that is authentic and approachable. It's not a reach...at all. Trust me. Go there."