I’ve been gone from Dallas just long enough to miss those establishments that were once part of my regular rotation. Number one on the list would be Jimmy’s (4901 Bryan,
214.823.6180), the Italian grocery in East Dallas, for their superb selection ofcured meats. In a close second is LaDuni, with their Cuban, South American and Spanish influences, and one of the best mojitos around.

The husband grills a mean steak, and some of the best cuts were purchased at Kuby’s in Snider Plaza. I miss the hip, fast-casual Indian concept of Cafe Roti, where we’d often get
takeout on Friday nights. (Can’t beat a good beer coupled with spicy Indian food.) I miss tapas at Cafe Madrid which where even better on a recent visit.

I miss the one-on-one time with my seven-year-old daughter over sipping chocolate at the Cultured Cup on wintry Saturdays. While we’re on chocolate, Dallas is home to several chocolatiers — Morgen, Noka, Wiseman House (in Hico) that fed my habit and kept the chocolate scene interesting.

I anxiously awaited the opening of Sprinkles and they’ve got some fine offerings, but some of the best cupcakes around were across Preston at Panini Bakery. (Taste the wedding cake
cupcakes.)