8 of the Most Creative Margaritas in Dallas

February 17, 2020February 20, 2020 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Local Businesses, Local Culture, Local Tastes, What to Eat

The following post was originally written for and published on Dallasites101 Blog. To read the full version click here.

One of the best parts about living in Texas is the artful adoption of Mexican cuisine into our daily diet. The margarita is (of course) an essential piece of that. While there isn’t a lot that beats a traditional margarita on the rocks (or frozen) there are also a lot of creative takes on the margarita around town that allow you to have some fun and mix it up!

CHAMPAGNE PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA

TWO MULES CANTINA AT TEXICAN COURT HOTEL

CHAMPAGNE PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA: TEXICAN COURT HOTEL

Is there any place more perfect to celebrate National Margarita Day (or month) than at the Southwestern-themed urban retreat hotel, Texican Court? Their Two Mules Cantina is serving up a Champagne Prickly Pear Margarita to pay homage to the month of love. Made with Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, prickly pear syrup, fresh lime juice, agave nectar and topped with champagne, the raspberry-watermelon-like taste of the prickly pear is sure to make anyone fall in love.

They top it off with a glass rimmed with sugar for a sweet ending to your sip! And if you’re looking to celebrate both Valentine’s and National Margarita Day, make a staycation out of it by booking a room overlooking the retro pool! You can sip on margs all night long!

IRVING | DIRECTIONS

BIG RED-RITA

MIA’S TEX-MEX

BIG RED RITA: MIA’S TEX-MEX

If you are looking for a really great dive Tex-Mex restaurant, look no further than Mia’s Tex-Mex, but don’t expect it to be a hidden gem with no wait- it’s a beloved Dallas institution serving the community for over 40 years. Do expect excellent margaritas, and for those who are fans of Big Red Soda, Mia’s Tex-Mex has a treat for you! They serve a huge goblet of frozen margarita with an entire bottle of Big Red Soda tipped upside down inside. This unique margarita costs about $12 and perfectly complements the one taco that Mia’s is famous for: their Brisket Taco.

OAK LAWN | DIRECTIONS

HIBISCUS CHAMPAGNE MARGARITA

MIA DIA FROM SCRATCH

HIBISCUS CHAMPAGNE MARG: MIA DIA FROM SCRATCH

The Hibiscus Champagne Margarita has been created by the Mixologists at Mi Dia from Scratch to give their patrons a really cool “Wow” factor as they enjoy their meal. Served in a large martini glass, the bartender pours the Margarita Mix over the dry ice, followed by an entire tiny bottle of Champagne! Because of this fun presentation of this sweet and flowery cocktail, this specialty margarita is perfect for any celebration (especially birthdays and bachelorettes). It will also give you the perfect footage for any Snapchat or Instagram story.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

MAMBO TAXI

MI COCINA

MAMBO TAXI: MI COCINA

How could we write an article about margaritas and not include the Holy Grail of them all – the Mambo Taxi?! Mi Cocina has been around for decades now, opening back in 1991. When we first arrived in Dallas, we were told we needed to go immediately for some classic Dallas Tex-Mex. Upon arrival, we spotted a frozen swirl of yellow and purple on every other table – that was the Mambo Taxi, one of the most popular margaritas in all of Dallas! It’s made with Sauza Silver Tequila, lime juice, housemade sangria with Pinot Noir, brandy and juices, giving it that Instagrammable swirl look to it!

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL MARGARITA

RESIDENT TAQUERIA

Screen Shot 2020-02-06 at 4.50.10 PM.png

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL MARG: RESIDENT TAQUERIA

Using his knowledge from his unique culinary background, Chef Savoie is able to create an amazing fusion of flavor in his tacos and margaritas. Think a Pecan Smoked Chicken, Glazed Pork Belly, Caramelized cauliflower, and Slow Cooked Mushroom. All of these tacos go well with their signature Activated Charcoal Margarita. Do not let the name fool you! It tastes like lemon (sort of) and makes you feel healthy, while still indulging in a margarita!

LAKE HIGHLANDS | DIRECTIONS

AVOCADO MARGARITA

MESO MAYA

AVOCADO MARG: MESO MAYA

Meso Maya has some of the best upscale Mexican cuisine in DFW, with a focus on the interior regions of Mexico. Between the delicious food and Latin atmosphere, we love taking out of town guests to Meso Maya, but a meal wouldn’t be complete without the Avocado Margarita! Think muddled avocado, pineapple and lime juice, Cointreau and tequila. If it sounds like it would taste like a non-sweet smoothie, think again. It’s light and refreshing and it a surprisingly amazing treat!

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

MATCHA GARDEN

JINYA RAMEN BAR

MATCHA GARDEN MARG: JINYA RAMEN BAR

Another unique feature about Dallas, that we love is the amazing Asian Fusion food. Jinya Ramen Bar is one of the best locations that serves Asian Fusion in Dallas. Restaurant founder, Tomonori Takahashi, does a fantastic job at fusing Japanese Ramen with our favorite Mexican flavors. The Matcha Garden includes house-made Matcha tequila, prosecco and basil Green Tea Margarita is no exception and is sure to please. This refreshing cocktail goes best with the Slurp Up Cilantro Ramen, Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen, and the Salmon Poke Mini Tacos.

VICTORY PARK | DIRECTIONS

THE RIMY RITA

THE RUSTIC

RIMY RITA: THE RUSTIC

One of our favorite cocktails is the Margarita Sangria swirl, but the Rustic puts a really fun and upbeat twist on this fantastic cocktail. Their version? The Rimy Rita which includes a goblet of traditional margarita and a sangria in popsicle form. You can either eat the popsicle and drink the drink separately, or you can allow the popsicle to melt and stir it into the margarita. But no matter what you choose, the Rimy Rita is bound to stimulate your taste buds and pairs perfectly with a warm summer evening on the Rustic’s huge patio and live music!

UPTOWN | DIRECTIONS

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5 Fun Places in The Colony that are Great for Family Activities

Featured by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Diving in to Culture, Local Culture, Local Tastes, Travel, What to Eat

I have spent an overwhelming majority of my life living in Plano, Texas. But now, my Fiance has moved to The Colony (November 2019); and in July, I will be moving in with him as his wife. Over the 25 years of living in Plano, it has been amazing to see how my hometown has grown as well the areas surrounding it. Recently, I have decided to change the focus of my blogging so that I can learn more about Frisco, The Colony, and Plano and to share what I learn about this wonderful community that I will be moving to in six months. The more I learn about The Colony, the more amazing it is to see how this community grown significantly and has become very family oriented with many fun activities. Even though Matt and I do not have children yet, we are hoping to have a few children in the future. Here are some great places I found for anyone of all ages to visit (specially families with children).

Top Golf

There are so many fun and distracting things to do at TopGolf that we cannot possibly think of a better place to spend time with your family and friends. For the avid golfers in the group, there are about 13 golfing related games for you to play. These games include TopDrive, TopShot, and Quick 9. TopGolf also has other non-golfing games that member of your group can play; including billiards and fooseball. For those who are looking for a space to celebrate something such as a birthday or graduation, TopGolf provides packages starting at $44 per guest.

Directions

Lasertag – DFW

If you are worried about your little ones running around in a dimly lit area with special effect fog and flashing lights, worry no more! Lasertag – DFW is entirely outdoors and they have 22 acres that is divided into five different lasertag courses. That way you and your family have plenty of space to play and five different fields to choose from. Don’t worry about age, anyone ages 4 and up can participate in this fun activity! If you are looking to go with a larger group prices (10+ People) prices start at $160 and include one attendant and access to their picnic tables.

Directions

Truck Yard – The Colony

We love the Truck Yard in Dallas; which is why we were elated to learn that they have opened up another one closer to our home in The Colony. The Truck Yard is a great place for you and your family for many reasons. First, with the regular rotation of food trucks that are parked at the Truck Yard there is guaranteed to be a different selection of food every time you go. Another great reason to visit this awesome location is because it is the home of Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art Museum. The museum is full of toilet seats that have been turned into pieces of art work, which is bound to amuse the children. The final reason that your family is will love this eatery, is that there is plenty of room for your children to play around or dance to some of the live music from their featured artists.

Directions

Nature Trails

(The Tribute Shoreline Nature Trail) Photo Courtesy of AllTrails

Nature trails are always fun and there are always new and exciting things for kids to learn while outside on nature trails. You and your family could go hiking or biking on nature trails. Or you could pack some picnic gear and have a picnic on the shoreline of Lake Lewisville. But no matter what you decide to do, there is only one thing about nature trails that we absolutely love: Nature Trails are 100% free! There is no admittance fee and you do not have to buy anything while you are there! There are a few Nature Trails here in The Colony, but Matt and I have three favorites. Be sure to try The Colony’s Shoreline Trail, The Colony Five Start Hike & Bike Trail, and the newest one (The Tribute Shoreline Trail).

The Colony’s Shoreline Trail

The Colony Five Star Hike & Bike Trail

The Tribute Shoreline Trail

The Shacks at Austin Ranch

In a nutshell, The Shacks at Austin Ranch are six eateries and a dog park all connected by a large patio. I love this location for many reasons. First, the entire family gets to go (of course when I say entire family, it means that your dog can join you on this outing). Another reason to love the Shacks, is the freedom to choose. If your family cannot decide on what to eat there are six different options that each family member can choose from. For those in the family who love Japanese ramen should try TEN Ramen. Mom and Dad can get adult beverages at Grrrowlers or coffee at Turbo. If anyone wants street tacos they can go to OMG Tacos. Tacklebox sells some great seafood; and Dirty Burger sells your favorite American Cuisine.

Directions

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5 Bars in Frisco that are perfect for Parent’s Night Out

Featured by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Local Businesses, Local Tastes, What to Eat

We all love our children and our families, but (let’s face it) there are times when we would like to get out of the house and have some time of our own. Whether you are going on a date night with your significant other or planning a girls’/guys’ night out with your friends, here are five great places right in Frisco that you should consider when making your next adults only plans.

Rare Books Bar

It is hard to believe that one of our favorite eras (the Roaring 20’s) was 100 years ago! Fortunately, right here in Frisco there is a really fun bar that is worth visiting (especially if you are a bourbon aficionado). The Rare Books Bar is a speakeasy that has an extensive selection of bourbon. Keeping true to the Roaring 20’s theme, this speakeasy has a “secret door” and requires a password prior to entry. Their weekly password is announced on their Instagram page. So be sure to follow so that you can keep up to date! While you are there, be sure to try our favorite cocktail the Whistlepig Old Fashioned. If you would like to add a little extra flair when visiting this bar, dress up in a Roaring 20’s costume when you go!

Directions

City Works

From the great location at the Star in Frisco, to the good food to the luxurious rooftop bar, there are many things to like about City Works. However, for the craft beer lover in your relationship, there are exactly 90 reasons to love City Works. This is be cause they have 90 local (or close to it) craft beers on tap. Plus, between the 1st and 2nd floor, they have over 200 taps pouring your favorite craft beers. While you are there, be sure to try the Velvet Hammer by Peticolas. It pairs well with the Smokehouse Burger, Filet Minon Sliders, and the Smoked BBQ Ribs.

Directions

Kelly’s Craft Tavern

If you and your group of adults are looking for something much more casual, Kelly’s Craft Tavern is a great place to go. They have more than 52 craft beers on tap that are changing seasonally; which is perfect for the person in your group who loves tasting new and different craft beer flavors. A couple great beers worth trying the is Lakewood Brewing Company’s The Temptress NITRO and the Strawberry Lager by Abita Brewing Company. These beers also pair well with the Chicken Fried Steak Fingers and the Frisco Joe (Sloppy).

Directions

Trophy Park Sports Lounge

Trophy Park Sports Lounge is a great place for you and your group of friends (or you and your significant other) are allowed to let out your inner child. There are so many fun options to choose from at this lounge. Of course the Trophy Park has some great dining and drink options; but they also have four bowling alleys, fooseball, bocce, arcade games booths, and more! But before your challenge your friends to a great game of bowling, make sure you sit down to eat! We suggest the Lobster Roll or the Pulled Pork entrees! If you are with a larger group, get the Whole King Crab for everyone to share!

Directions

Bottled in Bond

Named after the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, this awesome bar combines the best of vintage cocktails with some of the best modern sophisticated interior design. The absolute best time for you and your significant other to go is on Friday. Because on Friday, Bottled in Bond has live music from local artists including; Corina Grove and Caroline Milton. As you are listening to the live music you could be sipping on some of fun cocktails like the Whiskey Daisy or the Vieux Carre. Of course while drinking, you cannot forget about the finger food. Be sure to try the Glazed Bison Meatballs and the Navy Bean Hummus with your drinks!

Directions

Cover Photo Courtesy of Trip Advisor

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14 of the Most Unique Burgers To Try in Dallas

December 9, 2019December 10, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Travel

The following article was first published on the Dallasites 101 Blog. To read the complete article click here.

While you can’t go wrong with a classic burger, it’s always fun to mix it up. And given that we live in Texas, there are a lot of burgers and beef to go around. We have done some digging into the various restaurants and eateries that found new and different ways to put a twist on the classic burger for when you’re ready for a food adventure! Check them out below!

The Barn Burger

Haystack Burgers & Barley

It’s like a taco on a bun! The Barn Burger at Haystack Burgers & Barley includes Chipotle Mayo, Grilled Poblano Peppers, Pepper Jack Cheese, and a side of Queso. This burger also comes topped with Lettuce and Pico de Gallo. Instead of getting fries as a side for this delicious goodness, be sure to get chips and a dip. They serve our three favorite Tex-Mex dips: Queso, Salsa, and Guacamole.

Or even better get the Ranchero Chicken Stuffed Jalapeños as a side. And the Mozzarella Sticks are not to be missed either – they’re essentially jumbo sized, and so so good! Best part is there are three locations around the metroplex and two more coming next year, so there might just be a taco burger right In your neck of the woods!

OAKLAWN | RICHARDSON | FRISCO

Peanut Butter & Bacon Burger

Off Site Kitchen

If this burger sounds a little weird to you, we were taken back at first too. But please, trust us, if you like burgers, bacon and peanut butter all separately, you have to try them all together! It comes with a quarter pound of meat that is topped with hot pepper jam, bacon, caramelized onions, American cheese, and a brioche bun. If you are feeling extra adventurous, try this burger with the “Get Weird Queso Fries,” and for drinks try their Bourbon Cherry Cola.

TRINITY GROVES | DIRECTIONS

Fried Baloney Sandwich

Maple and Motor

The Fried Baloney Sandwich is nicknamed “The Flat Hot Dog.” It’s a really thick piece of baloney that is deep fried and served on a bun. This sandwich is served in two different styles; Cowboy style and Cincinnati style. The Cowboy style comes with chili, cheese and chopped onion. While the Cincinnati style comes with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.

MEDICAL DISTRICT | DIRECTIONS

The HMF Burger

Blues Burger

Also located in the Stemmons Corridor right next to UT Southwestern sits Blues Burger. Their HMF Burger is the best non-traditional burger on the menu, but not for the faint of heart. Atop a premium angus beef patty is ghost pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, spicy blues sauce, onions, and bacon. There are vegan and gluten-free options available for those who have special dietary needs.

STEMMONS CORRIDOR | DIRECTIONS

Unbeetable Burger

True Food Kitchen

This burger really is un-”beet”-table and is a fantastic vegan option if you still want that delish burger but aren’t sure if you want to go that fake meat route. This burger tastes healthy and fresh and is dressed with kuzu, avocado, jicama slaw, butter lettuce and vegan mayonnaise, all tied together with a flax seed bun!

PRESTON CENTER | DIRECTIONS

The Jackie O Burger

Liberty Burger

If you’re looking to mix up your meats, the Jackie O burger swaps out beef for lamb meat and adds on baby spinach, oven roasted tomatoes, and feta cheese to top it off! The perfect side? Sweet potato fries and the mudslide adult shake.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Le Wagyu Burger

Twisted Root Burger Co.

Known for their wide variety of burgers, their Le Wagyu is the best non-traditional burger we have tasted. It is made with a dijon crusted wagyu beef patty and served with thyme, caramelized onions, and gruyere cheese. For the more adventurous eater, the hamburger patty can be served with more exotic meats like venison, elk, ostrich, rabbit, camel, duck and boar.

DEEP ELLUM | DIRECTIONS

Ahi Tuna Burger

Chop House Burger

What do you get when you cross a burger with a tuna sushi roll?! The Ahi Tuna Burger from Chop House Burger of course! This Downtown burger restaurant pairs wasabi tuna with pickled ginger, nori chip, and arugula, and puts a bun on it to top it off! So next time you can’t decide between the two cuisines, you can meet in the middle!

DOWNTOWN DALLAS | DIRECTIONS

Elk Burger

Ye Ole Butcher Shop

Ye Ole Butcher Shop has been a Plano tradition since it was established in 1974. Over the course of the last 45 years, they have provided the community with award winning burgers including the Elk Burger! It’s served on Wednesdays and is yes, made from elk. The burgers at Te Ole Butcher Shop are then served with lettuce, onion, tomato, pickles, and cheese (for extra cost). And for those who enjoy hunting, this spot also provides Game Processing Services starting at $65 per animal.

DOWNTOWN PLANO | DIRECTIONS

Chili Cheese Burger

Burger House Hamburgers

Burger House has been serving the Dallas community since 1951 and has earned over 20 awards, while also solidifying itself in Dallasites who grew up on those fries with that famous seasoning salt, and those inexpensive burgers! Our favorite is the chili cheese burger, which is quite literally chili added to the top of a cheese burger. It might be one of the more simple items on the menu, but that doesn’t mean its any less delish!

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Whistlepig Burger

Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House

For anyone who loves aged maple syrup and candied bacon on their burger, this is the burger to try. The WhistlePig Burger includes not one, but two quarter pound hamburger patties, topped with authentic WhistlePig maple syrup from Vermont, candied bacon, crispy onions, and barbecue sauce. Instead of ordering french fries as a side for this amazing non-traditional burger, order brussel sprouts or the fried pickles!

WHITEROCK LAKE | DIRECTIONS

K Town Burger

LA Burger

For anyone who is a huge fan of Asian Fusion food, this is worth a trip out to the ‘burbs – you can find LA burger in Irving, Carrollton, Grapevine, Richardson and more DFW areas! The K Town Burger is a beef patty topped with kimchi, jalapeños, bulgogi glaze, sriracha mayo, lettuce, and tomato. Of course, what is a burger without a great shake to accompany it? This burger goes best with the Nutella nutter butter shake, oreo crumb shake, or PB&J Shake.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

Garlic Burger

Nest Burger

Calling all garlic lovers, this one’s for you! Like all classic burgers, the Nest Burger garlic burger comes with a meat patty, tomato, lettuce, onions, and pickle. But Nest Burger for one, realy differentiates itself because you can choose between one of four types of patties: beef, lamb, veggie or fried chicken. And there’s one burger here that sets itself apart; the Garlic burger comes topped with minced garlic, swiss cheese, and their house made garlic sauce.

PLANO | DIRECTIONS

The Mike Rawlings

Rodeo Goat

Named after the former Mayor of Dallas, Mike Rawlings, this wonderful cheeseburger comes with a tasty mixture of different flavors! A regular hamburger patty, it’s topped with Irish Whiskey Cheddar cheese, candied bacon, blackberry compote, lettuce and whole grain mustard. Get ready for a wild adventure! Also almost every Rodeo Goat burger is just as creative too so you really can’t go wrong with anything!

DESIGN DISTRICT | DIRECTIONS

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Fancy French Cuisine with My Two Favorite People

February 27, 2019August 29, 2019 by VacationLikeALocal, posted in Gourmet Coffee & Tea, Local Businesses

DSC_0028-2 — My Personal Favorite Romper. Olive Green Kaileigh from Stitch Fix. Sorry, my hair is a mess from the wind blowing and this was a candid shot.

Yesterday, I had the wonderful pleasure of going to Toulouse Cafe & Bar with two of my favorite people, Jamie (my brother) and Bre (his girlfriend). I could not have asked to go to a better fine dining, luxury, 5 star restaurant with a better couple!

DSC_0025-3 — My Favorite Couple! Beautiful on the Inside and Out! I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for you guys!

Let’s start by saying that Toulouse Cafe & Bar is very quaint! The interior design is absolutely stunning! Despite the small size of the interior, the restaurant decor and abundant natural lighting gives the restaurant an airy and very open feel. Also, Bre wanted me to let you know that she found the bench seats to be very comfortable (hehe)! The three of us loved our seats and the friendly and accommodating service at Toulouse.

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We all had something to drink. I had the Hibiscus Margarita, it was excellent! Jamie had the Toulouse Old Fashioned; and Bre had a Mimosa. they were all really good! Unfortunately, I was able to get a good shot of my drink. But it was pink and fruity with a touch of salt!

Toulouse Old Fashioned

Mimosa

Despite having a 12 pm reservation, we all decided to have brunch. I had the Eggs Any Style. Again, unfortunately I was unable to get a picture of my meal. However I did get a picture of Jamie and Bre’s meal. Jamie had the Omlette Provençal and Bre had the Orange French Toast. My meal was very tasty. I also tried Bre’s breakfast, it was great.

Orange French Toast

Omlette Provencale

Jamie and Bre, thank you for joining me! I will love you guys and cannot wait to go on more adventures with you guys! XOXO

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This Post was originally posted on The Chronicles of Kelsey. If you like what you see please leave a comment below and follow this blog. Also, be sure to follow Kelsey on Instagram and Facebook.