New Paleteria Brings Sexy Popsicles To Oak Cliff; Marcus Paslay Will Open Piattello Italian Kitchen

OAK CLIFF – In case you needed a little sex appeal with your frosty frozen treats, Encanto Pops will bring authentic Mexican paletas to Oak Cliff this May. The concept, created by former advertising executive Diana Diaz, will occupy the space formerly home to chocolatier Coco Andre on West 7th. Expect traditional Mexican flavors – tamarind and vanilla, notably – along with rotating paletas made with seasonal fruit. [CultureMap]

THE COLONY – In an incredibly unlikely pairing, KISS frontman Gene Simmons’ bar-restaurant concept Rock & Brews opens today in The Colony. The restaurant, located near the massive Nebraska Furniture Mart and Toyota’s new headquarters, features a menu of tacos, pizza, sandwiches, and “fried stuff.” [GuideLive]

FORT WORTH – Clay Pigeon executive chef Marcus Paslay will open his second restaurant in Fort Worth’s new mixed-use Waterside development. The concept, a from-scratch take on comfortable italian fare, is called Piattello Italian Kitchen, “plate” in Italian and also slang for “clay pigeon.” The menu will feature homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, and will serve espresso in the morning as Piattello Coffee Bar. The concept is set to debut this fall. [EaterWire]