Dallas isn’t high on the list of foodie towns, but Bolsa in Oak Cliff might change that. They use naturally-raised, organic ingredients from local growers, ranchers and fishermen throughout Texas to create fare that has patrons waiting at the door for a free seat.
At lunchtime the wait staff recommended the “bruschetta tasting.” My assortment included a Marfa, Texas, tomato with caprino royale chèvre and basil; prosciutto with medjool dates; smoked salmon with crème fraîche and capers; and Fuji apple with p’tit basque and toasted almonds. Oh. My. Word.
My friend Julie was in town from North Carolina and our mutual friend Sharifa picked the place and treated us. Our waitperson remembered Sha's “usual” order, if that gives you any indication of how much she likes it.
From Bolsa we headed down the street to "Dude, Sweet Chocolate." Dallas Observer dubbed it Dallas’s best chocolatier for good reason. The folks behind the counters chopped up generous samples for us and explained the options with patience and good humor. The selection demonstrated the confectioner’s commitment to chocolate with explosive flavors created by using spices and seasonal fare. Julie sent me home with a box of fig Moroccan almond. (Don't tell my family.)