Who’s hungry? If you’re anything like me, the answer is ALWAYS, and you will welcome three delicious words: DFW Restaurant Week…the annual celebration of North Texas wine and foodie greatness. Don’t get me wrong, home-cooked meals are always a treat, but there is nothing quite like an evening out with friends and family, savoring brisk conversation, excellent table service and unique food. Best of all, it’s all for a good cause AND someone else gets to do all the dishes afterwards!

This year, four of my favorite Arlington alumni are returning to the DFW Restaurant Week ranks, but with new offerings that I am already salivating for. After reviewing their menus, here are my top picks for RW in Arlington:

Restaurant506 at the Sanford House (August 18 – 28 for Wednesday – Saturday, Dinner Only) - One look, one taste and you’ll know why this charmingly intimate restaurant, located in the romantic Sanford House Inn & Spa, was winner of Diner’s Choice 2015 for OpenTable. After a side trip to their spa, my picks from their RW menu will be:

  • Appetizer, Blackened Ahi with Mango (Sushi Grade Tuna, Fresh Mangos, Soy Glaze)
  • Entrée, Pan Seared Rainbow Trout (Parmesan Polenta, Crisp Haricot vert, Blood Orange Beurre Blanc)
  • Dessert, Banana Fosters Crème Brulee (Caramelized Bananas, Whipped Crème)

COMPLETE MENU 

 

Melting Pot in Arlington Highlands - Beware of the “Fondue Effect” for it melts your willpower, leaving you unable to resist their award-winning line-up of drizzly deliciousness. My picks from their RW menu will be:

  • Appetizer, Green Goddess Cheddar (Aged Cheddar, Lager Beer, Garlic, Green Goddess, Black Pepper)
  • Salad, Strawberry Almond Mixed Greens, (Strawberries, Honey-Roasted almonds, Feta, Housemade Raspberry Walnut Vinaigrette
  • Entree, Shrimp with Seasonal Vegetables and Signature Dipping Sauces
  • Dessert, Pure Chocolate with Fresh Strawberries, Blondies, Bananas, Pineapple, Marshmallow Treats, Pound Cake and Brownies for dipping. (Pick one: milk, dark or white chocolate). DISCLAIMER:  I may eat dessert first (just sayin)

COMPLETE MENU 

 

Piccolo Mondo - Zagat doesn’t call this "One of the Top 10 for Food in the Fort Worth area" for nothing! Best of all, you’ll enjoy your evening to the sweet tunes of Frank Sinatra, Celine Dion and more. Their amazing live pianist plays standards, contemporary love songs and other crowd favorites. My picks from their RW menu will be:

  • Appetizer, Escargot alla Romana with crushed red peppers, fresh mint and fresh tomato sauce
  • Entree, Angel Hair Alla Pescatora with fresh clams, shrimp, calamari and fresh tomato sauce
  • Dessert, Tiramisu (When in Rome!)

COMPLETE MENU

Mercury Chophouse (August 9-15) - Remember Cacharel? This lovely gourmet steakhouse took its place and still offers the same panoramic view of the awesome entertainment district. Enjoy traditional American bistro fare in an upscale setting. My picks from their RW menu will be:

  • Salad, Traditional Caesar Salad
  • Entree, Grilled Salmon with Whipped Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables and Beurre Blanc
  • Dessert, NY Style Cheesecake

COMPLETE MENU

If you put your ear up to the screen right now, you may actually hear my stomach growling. I’m starving! An enjoyable evening with friends is just as delicious as the chef-driven cuisine, so join the fun. Bon Appetit!