Arlington Restaurants

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Arlington, Texas is a suburban boomtown that grew into its own unique city over the years. Its personality is reflected in its food. Old school barbecue joints are still prevalent, but more cosmopolitan fare and more international options are also part of the city's menu. There is no need to head into Dallas to avoid the dreaded trend of suburban chain restaurants overtaking the culinary scene. Arlington has a respectable culinary culture, even when compared to its larger neighbors.

Here is where to find Arlington's best flavors:

Budget

Pappadeaux is a local chain known for its fresh seafood and dine-in or take-out offerings. The Cajun theme is prevalent, but is not overwhelming, with classics like fried shrimp and oysters making for a very accessible menu. The diverse array of offerings also means that this is more than a mere copy of Long John Silvers or Red Lobster.

David's Barbecue (2224-H West Park Row) is a family-centric restaurant featuring Southwestern-style barbecue with generous portions and little perks that make all the difference (free ice cream for dessert and a patient, friendly staff).

Value

Abuelos (1041 West I-20) is a chain of Mexican restaurants found mostly in the southern Midwest and Ohio River Valley. The slightly upscale vibe, quality dishes and reasonably priced menu make this a good place for a hearty meal without pretense.

Mercado Juarez (125 East I-20) is a local chain of Tex-Mex restaurants serving up familiar tortilla-based favorites and mesquite-flavored meats in a surprisingly warm atmosphere (especially for a chain). One of the most notable specialties at Mercado Juarez is its award winning salsa. You can even buy a bottle to take home as an edible souvenir.

Pappasitos Cantina (321 West Road near Six Flags amusement park) is a Texas-based chain with surprising quality and some unique offerings. The Tex-Mex food is reasonably authentic, but the portions are generous and the family-style platters make dining fun and also allow you to sample the best of the diverse menu.

Splurge

Piccolo Mondo Italian Restaurant (829 Lamar Boulevard East) is one of the most notable Italian eateries in the Dallas Metro area. It has built up its reputation for both classiness and quality cuisine over 25 years in business. Seafood specialties like Gamberi alla Provinciale and veal dishes like Scaloppine alla Milanese are pricy, but the quality is unparalleled and reminiscent of the best dishes the Old World. Dinner for two, with drinks will come to between $60 and $100.