Every city has restaurants that get way more hype than they deserve. Here are my DFW hot takes.
Overrated (not bad, just overhyped):
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Mi Cocina — The mambo taxi is the only reason people go. The actual food is C-tier Tex-Mex at A-tier prices. Brisket tacos at Mia's are better and half the price.
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Maple Leaf Diner — Instagram aesthetic, mid food, 90-minute brunch wait. There are 10 better breakfast spots within 2 miles.
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The Rustic — Great for vibes and live music. The food? It's... fine. You're paying for the scene, not the plate.
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Dickey's Barbecue Pit — Chain BBQ in a state with Cattleack, Pecan Lodge, and Heim. No excuse.
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Any Uptown Tex-Mex charging $18 for enchiladas — You can get enchiladas suizas at La Victoria for $8.50 and they're better.
Underrated (deserve way more love):
- Jimmy's Food Store (East Dallas)
- Pho Bac (Garland)
- Babe's Chicken (any location)
- Off The Bone (Deep Ellum)
Sources:
- Google Reviews — rating vs. price analysis
- Eater Dallas — used for reference
- D Magazine — cross-referenced with my own experience
- My wallet — I've spent too much money eating at all of these