It’s easy for Carrollton to be an overlooked mecca for delicious food with Dallas so close by. Despite this, the people who call Carrollton home have their favorite local places and were more than willing to give their input last week on the food they love to sink their teeth into. We wanted to share these spots and compare them to Yelp’s high rated restaurants in the DFW area.
Mom’s Café
When the question was put to Carrollton’s Facebook audience, Mom’s Café (3108 Old Denton Road, #112) was mentioned over and over again. What draws people to this dainty, old fashion diner? It might be the generous portions or the great prices. Most likely, it’s the convenient location and friendly local faces. Breakfast is their specialty, but grilled pork chops and meaty burgers are also recommended. They do whip up to-go orders, so if you’d prefer a super quick swing by for brunch or lunch, give them a call at 972-492-0004. Otherwise, pull up a seat from Monday 12pm until 8:30pm, Tuesday through Friday 6am to 8:30pm, Saturday 7am through midnight, and Sunday noon to midnight. Keep in mind, they’re most busy Sunday mornings, so expect a longer wait if you come in then. Their unofficial Facebook Page is rife with happy customers and high star reviews, but not very active, and they don’t have website. Regardless, this downhome diner is “a great way to start the day.”
Babes Chicken
Babe’s got three mentions from Carrollton citizens, making it the second most suggested spot on our list. Take the whole family down to Old town Carrollton on Main Street, and dine where once a lumber yard sat. Get chicken anyway you like it: fried, smoked, baked, or steaked. Biscuits, gravy, hospitality, all things southern uphold Babe’s heritage. This is one of eight locations. Their weekdays have a divided schedule, opening from 11 to 2pm, and then reopening for dinner at 5pm. On weekends, they welcome guests from 11am to 9pm. Dial them at 972-245-7773, check out reviews and pictures on their Facebook Page, or read their start up story on their website.
Dirty Cajun Bar and Grill
One of our favorite Carrollton spots to grab some grub is the Dirty Cajun Bar and Grill on 2701 Old Denton Rd 156. When it comes to a slice of Louisiana, the Dirty Cajun offers authentic flavors and some seriously delicious seafood. As far as appetizers go, the calamari and boudin balls hit the spot. Though they take a little longer than most appetizers, the oysters Rockefeller are prepared to perfection. Each of the eight types of Poboys are huge, matching the size of all their portions. In addition to fried, grilled and boiled seafood, the Dirty Cajun’s menu also lists specialty burgers, raw oysters, Caesar salads, gumbos, and Cajun pastas and specialty dishes such as etouffee and jambalaya. The Dirty Cajun announces food and drink specials on their website and Facebook Page, so it’s worth clicking the like button there if you want a deal. They open at 11am for the lunch crowd and stay open late for anyone that wants great drinks with their food (10pm Monday through Thursday and Sunday, and 11pm Fridays and Saturdays.) For reservations on special occasions or a large group, they ask that you give them a call at 972-242-8800.
Mena’s Tex-Mex Cantina
Mena’s Tex-Mex Cantina may have a mellow, slightly elegant feel, but they got recommended for some seriously delicious food. They have lunch specials that stay mostly under the $10 per plate range, a vast dinner menu, and a fully stocked bar. Find them on 2810 E Trinity Mills Road (or in Richardson on Greenville Avenue), or give them a call 972-478-5750. They tease your taste buds on their Facebook page and just revamped their website to reflect the ambiance of the newest Carrollton location.
Bic’s
If you’re looking for a simple, southern style diner breakfast, Bic’s might be the place to stop! You’re welcomed with neon window signage, and walk into a well-aged dining room. Reviews rave about eggs benedict and pancakes. Average prices make this the go-to brunch stop for locals and regulars. No website or social media sites needed, so swing by 2245 Midway Road in Addison (Yes, not quite Carrollton, but close!) as early as 5:30 up to 3pm, or order in for take-out by calling 972-233-5819. They’ll welcome your patronage.
Papa Italiano’s
Located at the corner of Hebron and 121st, Papa Italiano serves fresh-made Italian and Greek cuisine. I just got hungry looking at the creation of ravioli’s in the back via a photo gallery on Facebook. They open at 8am for breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays, and offer an awesome spread homemade pizza buffet during weekdays lunch hour (11am – 3pm). Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday their open 11am- 9pm, Friday they stay up an hour later. Saturday dinner’s serve until 10pm, but they close at 3pm on Sunday. (Note: They’re closed on Monday.) They boast over 500 likes on their Facebook Page, and take reservations for your party or a special night out with a quick ring to (972) 492-6100.
Papi’s Red Hots
When first recommended, Papi’s was called a very good hamburger place. What I found on their Facebook Page and website was an array of delicious options from burgers and specialty brats to spicy barbeque and well-piled salads, and all reasonably priced! They claim to be “a Texas culinary mash up” which suits them perfectly! They also serve breakfast on the weekends, pancakes and potatoes in true Texas fashion. You can call ahead 469-296-7700 and swing in the drive through window if you’re in a hurry, or park and pig out at their location in The Colony on Main Street. Either way, if you like it hot, it’s all here!
Wing Town & Grill
Not to be confused with the national chain, Wing Town and Grill on Hebron Parkway has some of Carrollton residents preferred menu options are. Every flavor sauces and rubs, burgers, catfish, scrumptious sides, and a family friendly atmosphere give this place some bonus points. Their unofficial Facebook Page isn’t super active, but if you are a fan, be sure to like it. Their doors are open from Sunday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, and Friday and Saturday 11am to 11pm, so it’s perfect for late nights after a ball game or other community event. You can also order to-go by chatting them up at 214-483-3699 or going to their website.
Los Lupes
Family tradition meets customer service at Las Lupes Mexican Food. They’ve been dishing up family recipes’ dishes to visitors for more than 40 years, and have grown into a local chain. You’ll be drooling over fresh and authentic options such as bacon-wrapped shrimp, flaming fajitas, Baja fish tacos, and El Molcajete (specialty roasted cactus dish), all of which reel on their website and get posted on their Facebook page. Pina coladas are served in a pineapple like a sundae, complete with whipped cream and cherry, and margaritas are served Texas style, bigger! They honor Taco Tuesdays and Happy Hour, inviting Carrollton customers to dine at 1820 E. Trinity Mills Road Sunday through Thursday 6am-10pm, and Friday and Saturday 6am to 11pm. Se habla español y Ingles (English) 972-245-3300.
Victor’s Café
If you’re looking for a local joint that will impress, consider heading down to Victor’s Restaurant and Bar at 3720 N Josey Lane. Locals all know that the quaint atmosphere and well-rounded menu have aged well. Years past, reviews have been daunting, but in the last year improvements have rendered this the new hot spot for good eats and Friday/Saturday evening live music. Victor’s specializes in Mexican fare, but offer a plethora of other options from burgers to spaghetti. When the band’s not playing, you can expect a quiet place to enjoy family conversation and well-priced, big portioned dinners. Unique and unexpected appetizers such as baked brie with honey, croutons and apples bring a touch of sophistication to the table. The kitchen’s cooking Monday through Thursday 4pm to 9pm, and Fridays and Saturdays 4-11pm. You can make reservations (they’re recommended for Friday and Saturday nights!) by calling 972-492-3933. Visit their website to sign up for their VIP email letter to get weekly specials and discounts, as well as to connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Their Facebook page also announces weekly entertainment line-ups and tempts you with great food images such as the one above.
L.A. Burger
Don’t let the name fool you. L.A. Burger is not just star quality beef, but a unique Korean twist on American dishes. Their K-tots and K-fries are a mountain of potatoes smothering in cheese and kimchi. Asian pork tacos and a beer make a great evening better! Their specialty Coreano burger is a Korean BBQ fan’s dream and has put L.A. Burger on the map, featuring sliced marinated bulgogi beef, spicy pickled cabbage, cheese and veggies sandwiched between two pieces of toasted bun. You will find this kind of food nowhere else. They have three locations, with their Carrolton one at 1017 E. Trinity Mills Road. You can check out their menu and story on their website, as well as ogle food on their Facebook Page. Or just stop in Monday through Thursday 11am-9pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11am -10pm. Note they’re closed Sundays.
Joe’s Pizza, Pasta and Subs
If you need a good family place to get your favorite comfort foods, Joe’s Pizza, Pasta, and Subs will give you plenty of choices. From homemade pizza to specialty chef dishes, every single person at your table with fill up on what they want for a price you can afford. Most meals stay under $15 and, depending on appetite, will leave some leftovers for lunch. They make all their pasta and pizza dough fresh, and have three types of cheesecake, tiramisu, and cannolis to choose from for dessert. Check out their full menu and snag a couple coupons (50% off pizza and pasta M-TH 2pm-5pm right now!) on their website, or check out reviews on the unofficial Facebook Page fans created them-selves. You can also order take-out by calling them at 972.492.1474 or just stop by 1855 E. Frankford Monday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, Fridays and Saturdays 11am to 11pm, or Sundays noon to 10pm.
Pho Bistro
It’s all about family at Pho Bistro on 3052 Old Denton Road Suite #112: family friendly and family owned with wonderful family recipes. Though the style of the restaurant is streamline and casual, Pho Bistro’s Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine is served in unique, culture accurate dishware, adding atmosphere to your experience. Nothing on their menu is over $10, and they have all your favorites, from Crab Rangoons and spring rolls to twenty types of Pho! Their website flashes hunger-inducing images of noodles and appetizers, probably with the intention of getting you to place a take-out order by calling 972-245-9600 or to have you come in Monday through Saturday 10am to 9pm. They’ve recently announced on their Facebook page that they are closed Sundays.
Po-Boys
For an out-of-New-Orleans experience, Po-Boys on Rosemeade Parkway comes highly recommended. A transplant of Louisiana claims their muffaletta sandwich (genoa, spicy capicola, mortadella, ham, mozzarella, olive salad) is delicious, comparing them to those found in the French Quarter itself. Their menu features everything you’d expect from their name: crusted catfish, stuffed and tasty tacos, succulent shrimp, chipotle and BBQ meats, Cajun everything. Photos and reviews abound on their Facebook Page, so be sure to like it to stay in the loop. Four distinct family meal packages are available, so check the list out on their website and order them to go by calling (972) 492-3999. They’d love to cater your next event or serve you if you chose to walk-in any day 11am to 9pm. In June 2015, they were voted best sandwich shop in DFW area, and now you know why!
Sid’s Rainbow Grill
Carrollton’s downtown square has a lot to offer, including a local favorite lunch spot Sid’s Rainbow Grill (1107 South Broadway Street). Though only open from 11am to 2pm Monday through Saturday, they can whip out a delicious sandwich in no time flat! Peruse their website for a fully stocked menu complete with sandwiches, burgers, salads, and specialties such as Frito pie and chicken fried steak. They also announce news, discounts, specials, and great posts on their blog and Facebook Page. Calling 972-242-1621 and ordering lunch is a sure fire way of getting an affordable lunch and getting back to work on time.
Maverick
Themed to the gills in Texas flair, Maverick Restaurant and Sports bar offers the perfect adult entertainment, drinking, and dining experience in Carrollton (1616 Hebron Parkway). Their website displays Fridays and Saturdays scheduled out with well-known and/or local bands, and patrons are encouraged to dance between bites. If you’d prefer a rambunctious place to meet other sports fans and have a drink, you need to come in and utilize their 200-inch TV screen or 30 other TVs, or practice your poker, billiards, darts, Golden Tee, and ping-pong game. Stacked sandwiches, flavorful sliders, saucy wings, and other bar fare are all there to help you cheer on your favorite team. Specials and fun await on their Facebook Page, so be sure to like it to stay informed of all the fun. If you need to give The Maverick a ring, dial 972-492-7500 or just come on in between 11am and 2 in the morning. There’s never a dual moment here.
Paparazzi Pizza
Though only open since 2005, Paparazzi Pizza did what it set out to do: create great food and a family oriented atmosphere that would win over customers and awards alike. A reviewer on their Facebook Page admitted to driving over 100 miles one way to come eat their pizza and visit with George, the friendly and kind owner. Paparazzi’s Greek style pies, calzones, dolmas, pitas & gyros, and sandwiches boast fresh ingredients and authentic Mediterranean flavors. They cater for off-site crowds, and also have affordable lunch specials for the locally employed you can check out on their website. Short lunch break? No problem. Just call 972-820-8686 ahead to place an order. Located just down the street from us on 2145 N Josey Lane, they are open Monday through Saturday 11am to 9pm.
LaVista Cocina & Cantina
One of Carrollton’s Tex Mex places LaVista Cocina and Cantina is tucked away in suite #100 at 1012 W Hebron Parkway, yet it’s trying to become better known for good food and friendly service. Despite its simple exterior, LaVista offers a family friendly atmosphere, comfortable outdoor seating and dozens of margarita options for customers. Frozen mango and pineapple jalapeno margaritas got the most mentions on Yelp. Their bar area has a trio of televisions often turned to soccer games. A simple and traditional menu has all the Mexican fare you’d expect to find, plus some specialties such as brisket tacos and enchiladas. The meat is ultra-tender and delicious. Another dish many people rave about is their creamy avocado enchiladas. Each entrée comes with perfectly grilled vegetables and rice instead of the usual side of beans, as you can see on their website gallery. They welcome guests every day from 11am to 10pm, or you can ask questions via 972-939-5279 or 972-939-5281. You’ll find daily specials and great reviews on their Facebook Page. So be sure to stop by and like it for all the details.
How did Yelp’s ratings compare to our local taste preferences?
Eleven of the places on our list received 4 or more stars! Babe’s Chicken, Papi’s Red Hots, Paparazzi Pizza, Victor’s Café, LA Burger with 4.5 stars, and Mena’s Tex-Mex Grill, Sid’s Rainbow Café, Papa Italiano, Wingtown and Grill, Joe’s Pizza Pasta and Subs, and LaVista Cocina with 4 stars. Here’s how the rest fared on Yelp:
3.5 Stars: Mom’s Café, Bic’s, Pho Bistro, Po-Boys, Maverick Food and Sports Bar,Dirty Cajun Bar and Grill
3 stars: Los Lupes
This just goes to show that Carrollton locals know what they love and what good food is. I know I just planned at least a dozen meals out this summer. Feel free to use this Summer Dining Guide to support local restaurants, and tell them Josey Lane Dentistry sent you! Which of these Carrollton places have you eaten at or are planning to now that we’ve made you hungry? Tell us in the comments below or on our social media pages!
Emergency
Patient Forms
Contact Us