Keith Lee’s 2024 Dallas food tour was a deep dive into the city’s eclectic dining scene. From iconic BBQ to bold fusion tacos, his palate took him across neighborhoods, uncovering flavors both familiar and unexpected. Here’s a curated look at where he ate, what stood out, and what to know if you want to follow in his footsteps.

Thunderbird Pies

Keith Lee started with Detroit-style pizza at Thunderbird Pies in East Dallas. The crust is golden, airy, and perfectly crisp at the edges.

• Must-try: Connie Pizza, double pepperoni – 7/10
• Other bites: Budd Pizza (classic tomato and cheese) – 3/10; The Goat (monthly special) – 3/10
• Fried Brussels sprouts: 5/10
• Wings + Banana Pepper Ranch: Wings – 7/10, Ranch – 4/10
• Cost: $139
• Parking: Street and small lot available

Terry Black’s BBQ

Deep Ellum’s Terry Black’s BBQ brings Lockhart-style BBQ to the city. The brisket and ribs deliver that melt-in-your-mouth richness, while the sausage lineup is hit or miss.

• Standouts: Brisket – 8.5/10, Whole slab of ribs – 8.7/10, Original sausage – 7.5/10
• Less impressive: Mac & cheese – 1/10, Jalapeno cheddar sausage – 1/10
• Cost: $190 for a full spread
• Parking: Street and adjacent lots

Halal Fusionz

Farmers Branch’s Halal Fusionz experiments with tacos, quesadillas, and bowls. Bold, unexpected flavor combinations make it worth the trip.

• Top picks: Chipotle Khemma Taco – 9.3/10, Nihari x Birria Taco – 8.7/10
• Unique bites: Paneer Tikka Chili Elote – 2/10
• Mocktail: Mango Mojito – 8.5/10
• Cost: ~$18
• Parking: Ample on-site

Hutchins BBQ

Keith Lee sampled Hutchins BBQ in McKinney and Frisco. The smoke profile is rich without being heavy, and the sides complement rather than overpower.

• Ribs: 9.5/10
• Brisket: 9.3/10
• Texas Twinkie dessert: 8.5/10
• Cost: Moderate to high
• Parking: On-site and street

Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering

Rowlett’s bakery Absolutely Edible Cakes and Catering impressed even a skeptic of desserts. The Sweet Potato Thang is a standout, while the red velvet was slightly sweeter than necessary.

• Sweet Potato Thang: 9.1/10
• Red Velvet Cake: 9/10 without icing, 7.5/10 with
• Cost: $13
• Parking: On-site, easy access

Sweetly Seasoned

This local food truck, Sweetly Seasoned, delivers bold flavors and a touch of drama. Pulled pork and jerk chicken tacos were highlights, while the banana pudding was solid but not spectacular.

• Pulled Pork Sandwich: 7.8/10
• Jerk Chicken Tacos: 8.7/10
• Cost: ~$80 for a meal for two
• Location: Mobile; check Instagram for schedule

Taste Project

Located in Fort Worth, Taste Project is a nonprofit where guests pay what they can. Keith Lee didn’t sample, but the concept alone makes it worth visiting.

1) pay what you can afford,

2) pay what you would typically pay, or

3) pay what you would typically pay, plus a little extra.

Brunchaholics

Desoto’s Brunchaholics blends Southern and Cajun flavors with breakfast staples. Catfish and fried spider stood out as particularly satisfying.

• Top picks: Chicken Soul Food Burrito – 8.8/10, Catfish – 9/10
• Cost: $60 for a mid-range brunch
• Parking: Street and small lot

Cee Zoos Bar & Lounge

Cee Zoos Bar & Lounge pairs cocktails with a casual, relaxed dining experience. Keith Lee recommends returning for the chicken and waffles.

• Chicken and Waffles: 8/10
• Cost: Moderate
• Parking: Street or nearby lot

Roots Southern Table

Farmers Branch’s Roots Southern Table highlights classic Southern dishes with care. Short ribs and biscuits hold up well; gumbo is less memorable.

• Short ribs: 7/10
• Biscuits: 6.5/10
• Whole chicken: 6/10
• Cost: $157 for a full meal
• Parking: On-site

Keith Lee’s 2024 Dallas food tour shows the city’s diversity in flavor, technique, and culinary personality. From BBQ to fusion tacos, and indulgent desserts to soulful brunches, Dallas offers carefully crafted dining experiences for couples, friends, and solo explorers alike.