Thai Lotus on Cedar Springs

As experience would have it, I'd assumed many of the restaurants along Cedar Springs would not have the best food in the world. This area after-all is known for its pubs and discotheques and when you've had a bit too much to drink, the demand for food quality declines. This is not universally true, however and it seems that recently the restaurants which have opened are of a higher-caliber. 

In the middle of it all, a small Thai restaurant called Thai Lotus Kitchen appears to have been here a while. I had seen it but didn't really know if they had indoor seating and had incorrectly assumed it was for tak-out. On a recommendation, we stopped in. The food, as suggested, was quite good. The atmosphere isn't at all glamorous, but if what you want is good food before or after drinking-or even instead of it (It doesn't appear they serve alcohol or allow BYOB), give it a try.

Green Papaya on Oak Lawn

3211 Oak Lawn Ave Dallas, TX 75219

It was actually the fun look of the restaurant next door that brought me to the corner of Hall and Oak Lawn in Dallas. Cyclone Anaya's Mexican Kitchen has an attractive outdoor seating area lit by flame.  

Moving through the revolving door, the atmosphere seemed just as fun inside, but it was just too loud. I understand it's that way on Friday and Saturday, so we decided to come back on a week night.

A second option was only steps away at Green Papaya, and it actually had a better rating on Urban Spoon. We both had noodle dishes, one pho, and the other with charcoal chicken. Both satisfied. The egg rolls were also exceptional. This will be a frequent stop.

I also want to add that this is one of the great things about urban neighborhoods. If one restaurant has an issue or another--and you know the more people you bring along, the more likely it is that someone will just not cooperate-- then there's no need to get back in the car. This area has a significant density of restaurants, enough that it can be a destination even without a particular eatery in mind.