Pop Diner Falls Flat, Boca Chica, Waters, & More

Scott Reitz was unimpressed by Pop Diner: The recently opened 24-hour joint is filling a niche by being one of the only places in the "late-night food desert" that is Uptown with 'round-the-clock hours, but unfortunately Pop "serves up quirky diner riffs that taste like they came from a college cafeteria." A cheesesteak suffers from crappy bread, a Reuben is bone-dry, and the burger "is one of the worst burgers in Dallas." Coffee is "surprisingly good", but can't save the breakfast offerings of overcooked scrambled eggs, "barely toasted" toast, and saccharine-sweet pancakes. [Observer]

Leslie Brenner was surprised by Boca Chica: Despite being located in "a cavernous, corporate-owned place atop a multilevel strip mall," Chef David Reyes dishes up some thoughtful creations like a trio of ceviches with "vibrant and pure" flavors, albondigas (meatballs) "in a soulful smoked tomato sauce", and "positively addictive" deep-fried chickpeas. Tacos are overstuffed and a bit clunky, but a roasted suckling pig for $19 per person is worth planning your night around. Cocktails are very good, and though service could stand to be "a little more practiced," this Shops at Park Lane restaurant "is certainly worth a visit".

Teresa Gubbins reviewed Jon Bonnell's Waters Coastal Cuisine: The menu, which changes nightly based on what's fresh, centers on fresh seafood, simply prepared, with interesting sides like lentils and Brussels sprouts." Oysters Texasfeller are "impeccably light and crunchy", if a bit disjointed; a scallop special is impeccably cooked, with "an absolutely smashing side of linguine and fresh vegetables." "Bonnell knows how to cook fish right," and even the side dishes like lobster mac and sweet potato grits deliver. Overall, it's "a terrific addition to Fort Worth's restaurant scene." [DFW.com]

THE BLOGS: The Taco Trail checked out Taqueria La Candelaria in Richardson; Pegasus News tried the brunch drinks at Anvil Pub; Gay List Daily had brunch at Belly & Trumpet; Confection Confessions sampled the goods at Bread Haus in Grapevine.