The Early Word on Fresh Mexican Joint Peak & Elm

For less than two weeks now, the Moreno family has been serving fresh-flavored Mexican dishes at Peak & Elm on the outskirts of Deep Ellum. Local social media has been primed for the opening since news broke in September that the La Popular Tamale House team was opening a second project, and for the most part, they haven't been disappointed with their bright and healthful takes on more traditional plates, although deviations from some classics have ruffled a few feathers. Here's the early word on Peak & Elm:

The Good News: A Facebook user has a great time: "Went to the soft opening of Peak & Elm tonite. If you like good Mexican food, a funky atmosphere and good service (ask for Andrew), then put this place into your rotation." [Facebook]

The Great News: On Foursquare, a customer sings praises : "Loved this place. Perfect spot to eat before heading to Fair Park." [Foursquare]

The Bad News: One Yelper is critical about a starter: "When you arrive, instead of getting chips and salsa you are given a bowl full of marinated/pickled vegetables such as carrots, jicama and red onion. I work in a business environment, I can't be eating straight up onions and go back to work." [Yelp]

The Dessert News: Blog Dallas Food Nerd expected more out of her decadent treat: "The peach cobbler was actually just the sweetly spiced peaches you usually find in a cobbler sans the flaky pastry or sugary crumble on top. I was hoping for a bit more on that dish." [DFN]

The Veg News: Blog Dallas Vegan raves about the abundant produce: "Next up were some refreshing Veggie Taquitos. Stuffed inside a delicately crisped wheat tortilla were some of the most amazingly roasted vegetables I've had at a restaurant in a long time. Though they were your standard Tex-Mex veggies (tomato, pepper, and onions) – they were roasted to perfection – cooked just before the point they would become a mushy mess (and the caramelizing of the onions was fantastic!)." [Dallas Vegan]

The Atmosphere News: UrbanDaddy gives a description: "It's relaxed. It's inviting. It's just the kind of place you'd go to with a second date for stacked mole enchiladas." [UD]

The Tortilla News: Blogger and resident tortilla expert Taco Trail tweets about the restaurant's "fantastic hand-rolled flour tortillas". [Twitter]

The Pricey News: On Yelp, a reviewer questions the value: "We were the only ones there and I expect nobody knows they are open yet. I had the enchiladas w/ chicken and mole and it was quite tasty. My wife had the lunch special flautas and enjoyed them. I like the veggies instead of chips concept as I wasn't full before my meal arrived. All in all it was good... only minor complaint it was a little pricey for lunch ($26 with tip)." [Yelp]

— Ashley Mason

· All Peak & Elm Coverage [-EDFW-]
· Peak & Elm [Official Website]