Sloppy Seconds: Twists, Turns and the Dining Double-Cross

By Patrick Michels Fri., May 29 2009 at 7:44 PM

Categories: Sloppy Seconds

This week's round of local food news proves it: appearances can be deceiving. A fine Japanese spot can be hidden deep in a mess of chain sprawl, a food-lover who relishes subtlety can prove to be a karaoke superstar by night, and an initially disappointing pizza can prove, on a second try, to be just fine -- if you can get over its lack of meat.

The Week in Review(s):

Your own Dallas Observer: Dave travels deep into the Siberian-scale dining desolation of chain-land northwest Dallas, and catches a surprisingly solid seafood option in Nori Sushi Bar and Grill.
Dallas Morning News: Leslie Brenner visits Central 214, and finds that dressing a restaurant up in a three-digit number isn't enough to make it in Dallas these days. A disappointing bout with Roaster's rounds out her week.

Highlights from City of Ate:

Hophead: Ephemeral Stardom at the Social House
Mr. and Mrs. Hophead find subtle good taste in the Social House's brew selection, and something else entirely in its karaoke books.
Pizza By Marco (Part Deux)
Marco -- if that is his real name -- makes the most of his second chance at impressing Veggie Girl with his vegan pizza.
On the Range: Carnitas
With a nod to straight-forward exteriors, Chris offers a look at one of Tex-Mex's most literally named options.
Dude Food: Chubby's Family Restaurant
Last, the dining dude puts things in perspective, proving that a place called Chubby's can make you feel just that.