This may come as a surprise, but I love going out to eat.
I preach to the masses about the beauty and joys of cooking for yourself and for your friends, but there’s also something sweet about going somewhere and enjoying a meal. Actually, there are a LOT of “but”s when it comes to eating out for me.
For instance, YES to eating out if it’s a:
a hole-in-the-wall, BUT they have to be online somewhere (i.e. Google Maps and have reviews, pictures, all that jazz).
aesthetic, BUT not crazy crowded (that’s key).
their menu has options BUT not variety (there’s a difference: if there are more than 4-5 different cuisines in one establishment, red flag in my book).
a dining experience BUT something I probably won’t replicate (or try to) at home.
Is this pretentious? Maybe. Do I save money? Debatable! Does my judgment make my dining out more enjoyable? Absolutely.
With that being said, I’m not here to yuck anyone’s yum. I just know what I want if I want to go out.
I also will say that I will 9 times out of 10 choose to go wherever my friends or family want to go.
A prime example is Chili’s. My family and friends love Chili’s and I don’t fully get it, but I respect it.
Their monthly margs and burgers aren’t bad!
Another example is Texas Roadhouse.
If it weren’t for the rolls and the love I have for my people, this place would be a no for me. sorry not sorry.
Here are my recent (and local-esque) highlights of dining out since moving.
Pupusas from a food truck I do not remember…
My friend/coworker and I had a work off-location trip and decided the only way to finish out was to stop at a food truck before heading back to work.
This pupusa was CRAMMED with Birria, topped with pickled red onions, curitdo, and lots of cilantro. It was an experience and a good one at that.
IKEA?
Okay, I understand IKEA is not what everyone thinks of for, “let’s hit the town!” but their food is surprisingly good!
My roommate and I went together a few weeks ago, and it was not bad. Also for the price? Shocked, 10/10 (okay, in reality maybe like a 7.5/10 but it doesn’t sound as good).
We split a serving of the Plant-Based Swedish Meatballs (out of real meat, but I’m not complaining) with mashed potatoes, peas, and lingonberry sauce.
Was it the best meal I’ve ever had? No! Not even close, but it was fun and new and felt nostalgic in a way. I am not Swedish, but the entire experience reminded me of eating in the cafeteria as a kid. Waiting in line, the chefs being out of something, dinner trays, instant mashed potatoes.
My school always had a Thanksgiving dinner/meal for lunch the Tuesday before we left for Thanksgiving, and that’s exactly how IKEA dinner felt like.
Vietnamese. Period.
I don’t think I realized how much I LOVE Vietnamese food until I lived somewhere that has a ton of it.
Nothing hits like a Bahn Mi, a Spring Roll, or a big bowl of Pho. It’s delightful it’s light. These are the most basic things to order, and I am not a connoisseur by any means, but they’re my go-to’s at the moment.
Mr. Hamburger
It’s not often I crave a hamburger, but when I do….I usually get Whataburger.
Okay, that’s only partly true, but Mr. Hamburger also isn’t bad! There are two locations in Texas, one in Huntsville and one in College Station. The atmosphere gives off yeehaw old 50s diner.
Mr. Hamburger was showcased on The Texas Bucket List a few years ago. For those who don’t know, The Texas Bucket List is a TV show by Texan Dads, for Texan Dads, showcasing restaurants around the state.
Personally? It’s alright. I always enjoy the company more than the meal.
Hopdoddy
Now that I’m thinking of burger joints, Hopdoddy is more my speed for bougie, overpriced burgers.
My roommate and I ventured out and ended up here last night for shakes and fries.
Side note: they do mini shakes: AMAZING. Perfect size for the girls with stomach issues! Major silly little treat energy.
I ordered a mini Nutella Pretzel Milkshake, y’all. Tell me why that was the best milkshake I ever had. Not too sweet, pretzel bits blended all the way through, LOTS of hazelnuts. Would come here solely for that again.
We also shared an order of Parmesan fries, DELICIOUS!
Unfortunately, this is the list for now eating out in the last few months. If anyone would like to send funding for more personal food reviews and critiques, you know where to find me.
With Love,
Cara