The not-for-profit BBQ competition and live-music festival has grown into one of North Texas’ most anticipated spring events, blending nationally recognized artists, award-winning pitmasters, and a mission-driven commitment to supporting Texas youth in agriculture.

The festival’s long-awaited public ticket on-sale begins Friday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. CT at SyndicateSmokedown.com. With 2026 early-bird presale tickets selling out in a matter of minutes this fall and with the 2025 festival having fully sold out of tickets ahead of show day, fans are encouraged to snag their tickets before it’s too late.

The 2026 Music Lineup: A 5th Anniversary Celebration

Anchored by some of the most exciting names in modern country, Red Dirt, and Americana music, with a special spotlight on native Texas talent, this year’s music lineup brings a dynamic mix of artists to the Stockyards for a full day of performances. With multiple GRAMMY winners, chart-topping acts, and breakout Texas artists, the 5th anniversary showcases the festival’s biggest musical offering to date.

The full lineup is below in billing order with set times and additional programming to be released early next year:

• Whiskey Myers (Palestine, TX): Fresh off a year of major festival headlining slots and a new album (Whomp Whack Thunder) that debuted to critical acclaim this September, the Southern rock powerhouse returns to North Texas with a high-octane live show known for blistering guitar riffs and crowd-roaring sing-alongs. Their 2025 tour sold out venues nationwide, making their Smokedown headlining set all the more special, as it is one of only two concerts currently announced for next year.
• Randy Rogers Band (San Marcos, TX): A true cornerstone of Texas country music, Randy Rogers Band recently celebrated two decades of Red Dirt dominance and a successful 2025 headlining touring run that was capped with the October release of the band’s newest EP, The Going. With multiple Top 10 Billboard country albums and a fanbase spanning generations, the band brings a signature blend of authentic storytelling and Texas dancehall spirit to the Smokedown’s main stage.
• Amanda Shires (Nashville, TN): Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter and acclaimed fiddler Amanda Shires arrives in Fort Worth following a nationally praised album (Nobody’s Girl) released this September. Her deeply emotional songwriting and genre-bending style add a powerhouse voice to the 2026 lineup.
• Jason Scott and The High Heat (Oklahoma City, OK): One of today’s fastest-rising, new-age country outfits, these multi-faceted musicians blend rock, folk, and country influences in a sound that’s earned recent NPR praise and a rapidly growing touring footprint, having just released their sophomore album (American Gin) to high praise from critics and fans alike.
• Ellis Bullard (Austin, TX): A honky-tonk revivalist known for his reputation for rowdy live shows and classic Texas swagger.
• The Broken Spokes (Houston, TX): Houston’s beloved traditional country band known for steel-guitar twang and timeless two-stepping energy.
• Weldon Henson (Austin, TX): A dancehall favorite whose high-energy sets have made him a staple of Texas’ traditional country scene.

“For our 5th anniversary, we wanted a lineup that felt both elevated and unmistakably Texas,” said Andy Eldridge, Smokedown Festival Director, Fort Worth resident, and longtime member of the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate. “From Whiskey Myers and Randy Rogers Band to Amanda Shires and our all-Texas lineup during BBQ Time, this is the biggest music lineup year we’ve ever produced – one that should make the perfect soundtrack for a memorable day in the Stockyards.”

Photo courtesy of Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival

2026 Ticket Sale Information

Fans can secure their spot at the festival starting this Friday, December 12 at 10:00 a.m. CT via SyndicateSmokedown.com, starting at just $45+.

Ticket packages include:

• Music Time ($75+): A budget-conscious approach to experience the full music lineup and enjoy access to the festival grounds. Guests can explore vendors, bars, and general festival activities throughout the Stockyards with food and drink available for purchase, although the BBQ competition and samplings are not included.
• BBQ Time ($134+): Includes everything in ‘Music Time’ plus access to the heart of the festival: the BBQ arena. Enjoy entry into the competition zone, BBQ samplings from Noon to 4:00 p.m. (while supplies last), and the chance to meet the pitmasters competing for Smokedown’s $20,000+ purse.
• VIP ($245+): Includes all amenities included in the ‘BBQ Time’ ticket package, plus premium concert viewing, a private shaded lounge, dedicated VIP bars, upgraded restrooms, early entry, and express entry lanes.
• Platinum ($616+): The most exclusive and premier way to experience Syndicate Smokedown. Includes all VIP amenities plus ultra-premium viewing, enhanced hospitality perks, complimentary beverages, and concierge-style support throughout the day. An extremely limited quantity is available for purchase.

“Syndicate Smokedown is built for fans – whether you want to soak up the smoke, get front row for the headliner, or make this Saturday experience part of a full weekend adventure in the historic Stockyards,” added Andy Eldridge. “But no matter which pass you buy, every single ticket purchase directly helps a Texas kid and supports this great state’s agriculture industry.”

Photo courtesy of Syndicate Smokedown & Music Festival

About The Event, The Cause & The Organizers

Syndicate Smokedown is unlike any festival in Texas. Founded in 2019 as a not-for-profit fundraiser, the event is produced entirely by the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to supporting Texas youth in agriculture.

For more than 30 years, the Syndicate has provided meaningful financial support to 4-H and FFA students through several major efforts. Throughout the year, Syndicate members contribute directly to youth-led livestock and Texas agriculture projects. During the Fort Worth Stock Show’s annual Junior Sale of Champions — happening this year on February 7, 2026 — Syndicate members, alongside the general public, purchase the animals raised by young exhibitors, generating essential funding for their projects, education, and future agricultural work.

In addition to these initiatives, the Syndicate’s Jim Bob Norman Scholarship Fund has awarded countless $10,000 scholarships to students pursuing college degrees and ag-related careers across Texas, with funds raised in part through the Syndicate Smokedown event.

Held each April, the springtime festival brings the community together through great music, great food, and a shared spirit of Texas generosity. Thousands of fans pack into the historic Stockyards for a full day of live music across two outdoor stages along with one of the most competitive BBQ showdowns in the state, as the Syndicate Smokedown BBQ competition is an official International Barbeque Cookers Association (IBCA) State Championship–sanctioned contest.

The event’s signature BBQ competition – open to both professional pitmasters and amateur backyard teams – features a $20,000+ purse, making it one of the richest one-day BBQ competitions in the Lone Star State. Registration opens to the general public in December, and spots historically fill quickly.

During the competition, attendees who purchase the BBQ Time ticket package receive complimentary, unlimited BBQ samples from participating pitmasters between Noon and 4:00 p.m., while supplies last. Once BBQ Time concludes, additional food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The Syndicate Smokedown event stands as an annual celebration of the Syndicate’s mission and the community it serves. More than a festival, it is both a major fundraiser and a powerful storytelling moment – giving visitors a clear view of how their ticket purchase strengthens Texas agriculture and supports the next generation of ranchers, welders, ag scientists, veterinarians, and the many professions that keep Fort Worth and the great state of Texas thriving.

Stay tuned for additional announcements in the coming months – including BBQ team registration details, festival maps, schedules, vendor information, and special 5th anniversary programming – by visiting SyndicateSmokedown.com and following along on social media at @SyndicateSmokedown.

The post Sydicate Smokedown & Music Festival Fifth Anniversary Lineup Announced first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

I step into the truck and enter the world of owner and head chef Jonathan Arguello where everyone has the opportunity to experience something extraordinary. Arguello is pushing boundaries and redefining the very essence of what a burger truck is.

“We want to create this awesome workforce,” says Arugello, “A lot of times restaurants are not owned by people that work in them… we’ve always worked in restaurants, so we know the struggle… at the end of the day, of course, we want to provide for ourselves and our family, but we want to create an environment where people can come in, have their part-time job but also work on their passion projects.”

GUSTO’S does not just sell burgers. Every day, Arugello shares his zest for life and love for his community through his truck.

I thought I knew what a scorching Texas day felt like. I am proved wrong the minute I hop into the back of the truck, with orders coming in at a pace I struggle to keep up with.

Photo credit: Anna Parker

Sporting a black logo t-shirt, a well-worn black apron, and a red rope hat, Arguello persuades me, after just a brief moment, that he can talk as he handles orders with ease. He flips patties at the speed of light while dodging flying grease bullets. The truck is a well-oiled machine, and the smile never leaves his face.

As he serves customers, he tells me how he got started. Working in marketing, Arguello yearned for more. He decided to leave and bet on himself. During the pandemic, he rented out a gas station kitchen for $400 a month.

He got the affirmation he needed to fully pursue on his business when he was cooking at a music festival. Australian singer-songwriter (and former vegetarian!) Courtney Burnette tried one of Arguello’s burgers and said it was the best she had ever had. It was a moment he had dreamed of. He went all in on the business, bought a truck, and relocated it to the Hotel Dryce, where he flourished before moving the truck to its current location.

Arguello said his biggest challenge has been keeping faith that he could truly thrive in the culinary business. Not only has he kept the faith, but he’s managed to stand out from other food trucks with his personal touches and charisma.

Aruguello says, “We’re trying to create simple menu items that are cooked correctly every single time and served with hospitality for a good value.” While hungry customers wait in line for their meal, Arguello keeps a positive and calm attitude. He’s thrilled to be where he is.

At last, the anticipated moment of my visit arrives. It’s time to taste the burger.

The patty with its gloriously crispy edges rests on a buttered bun. Best Maid pickles, ketchup, and mustard compliment Gusto’s special sauce. Arguello hands me napkins. I don’t use them. Grease drips down my wrists. This is a recipe I will forever strive to replicate.

Within a few bites, Gusto’s burger skyrockets to the top of my “Best Fort Worth Restaurants” list I keep in my notes app. Arguello has earned himself a dedicated fan.

Photo credit: Anna Parker

As I end my visit, Arguello shares with me his goal for the future. He wants to open multiple stores, all serving the same simple-but-damn-good food with his signature top-notch hospitality. “I’m just trying to create something that I wish someone created a long time ago that I got fed into. If we could create something where everyone gets paid, everyone gets to save a little, and everybody gets pumped up to do their thing, you would create the most loving space in the world.”

[Editor’s Note: Arguello is opening a brick-and-mortar just off Magnolia soon. Stay tuned!]

As I squeezed through Tulip’s alley, excited for what I might find on the other side, I never imagined I’d leave loving this person even more than the food he makes. But Arguello is a joy to be around. He has created not only the best smashburger I’ve yet to have, but he’s made a place filled with love and fun.

Gusto’s motto is, “You got to have fun, baby. Life is too short.”

After a trip here, I think I agree.

Anna Parker is a student in Sarah Angle’s feature writing class at TCU. 

The post You Gotta Have Fun, Baby! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Occupying a beautifully restored, century-old bank building on the southeast corner of Magnolia and Hemphill in the Near Southside neighborhood, Walloon’s exemplifies that most Fort Worth of traditions: honoring our city’s past as we venture into the future. The result of an extensive and well-executed restoration that boasts beautiful terrazzo flooring below and handsome original tin ceiling tiles above, all illuminated by carefully restored period lighting, Walloon’s is truly a feast for the eyes and the palate.

“The building owners called me and asked to come look at it for a restaurant,” says Paslay. “I have wanted to be in the Near Southside for years, but parking was always an issue for me. When I saw the space, I fell in love with it. It was awesome!”

(As for parking, there is a nearby parking garage, and Walloon’s validates parking for their guests.)

With his biggest reservation assuaged, Paslay and his team set about creating the restaurant.

“The name is twofold,” Paslay said. “It’s… a reference to Wallonia [a French-speaking area of Belgium] … it’s got a heavy French influence without being French. Walloon’s has a heavy French influence but is not a French restaurant. The name also reminded us of Walloon Lake in Michigan [Paslay’s wife’s family has a cottage on the lake.]… Walloon Lake is where Hemingway would summer as a boy, and we have a few Hemingway Easter eggs throughout the shop.”

Paslay continued, “As soon as I walked in, I had a vision of the Old South, like Charleston or New Orleans… we studied the neighborhood, which led to a seafood-focused American grill that has a classically nostalgic feel to it.”

The dining room is dominated by an impressive horseshoe-shaped bar serving up classic cocktails. A raw bar, with bi-valves and crustaceans of every description nestled seductively in crushed ice, welcomes you. The bank-vault-turned-tasting-lounge and a private dining room offer more intimate settings for small and important gatherings, as well as opportunities to craft a custom menu with the chef. Two long walls of large windows overlooking Magnolia complete the welcoming, old-world bistro feel.

Photo courtesy of Walloon’s

With a concept in hand, Paslay and team turned their attentions to the menu. According to Walloon’s website, the “food and drink menu blends timeless tradition with a flair for wanderlust, creating an original take on familiar flavors.” Indeed, a perusal of the menu is a delightful map-and-dart session revealing a peripatetic culinary crisscrossing of the Atlantic.

Louisiana BBQ shrimp and beer-battered beignets share the starters menu with steak tartare and French onion dip. For lighter fare, one can hop from a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich to a New England-style lobster roll. The entrees are Paslay’s riffs on classics of American and French cuisine: grilled trout almandine and seared redfish share the menu with steak frites in an au poivre sauce and moules frites with leeks in white wine.

We Fort Worthians like our tipples, and signature cocktails include Walloon’s twist on the Manhattan: Maker’s Mark Private Reserve and simple syrup tinged with Aztec Chocolate Bitters. The Hemingway’s Daiquiri is made with a citrus oleo-saccharum as a nod to the original daquiri recipe. To round out your trans-Atlantic barhop, Walloon’s barkeeps will expertly craft a Paloma, a Negroni, or a gorgeous Sidecar prepared with Brandy Sainte Louise.

Walloon’s opened in July with little fanfare. “It was actually a really smooth opening”, says Paslay. “We had a friends-and-family-type preview. The plan was to do a soft opening, but word got out quickly, and we’ve been busy ever since.” Paslay has a devout following, so Walloon’s didn’t take long to get up to full speed. It doesn’t hurt that the food is delicious, the cocktails fantastic, and the setting remarkable.

Marcus Paslay’s uncanny ability to open a restaurant we didn’t know we needed and make it exceptional is on display again at Walloon’s. It is another in a lineup of inspired eateries Paslay has given us over the past decade. It is a superlative addition to Fort Worth’s culinary landscape and another smashing success from one of our favorite restauranteurs. Santé!

The post The Restaurant We Didn’t Know We Need first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Now Bonnell has opened Jon’s Grille, a burger and barbecue joint that he hopes will prove that the farm-to-table culture of Bonnell’s and Waters can translate to the fast casual, neighborhood joint.

Photo courtesy of Jon’s Grille

I recently sat down with Bonnell at Jon’s Grille. It was a beautiful, sunny day, and the patio doors across the front of the restaurant were open to the sidewalk. Bonnell waved at friends as they came in to eat lunch. As a fourth generation Fort Worthian, he knows or is related to everyone in town.

“You know how they say everyone is separated by only six degrees? Well, in Fort Worth, it’s two degrees of separation.” And, it seems, everyone in Fort Worth is coming to Jon’s Grille.

During the late ‘80s and throughout the ‘90s, the original Jon’s Grille on University was THE place to get a burger and a beer in Fort Worth. A generation of Fort Worthians carved their names into the walls of what Bonnell fondly recalls as “a great burger dive.” Bonnell recalls coming into for a burger and getting to know the eponymous Jon Meyerson who worked the counter. “He had a really infectious personality,” Bonnell said with a smile. “He loved to hang out in front and talked to everybody who came in. We just kind of hit it off – talked about food and cooking. When I came back from culinary school and said I was thinking about opening a restaurant, he was like, ‘Don’t do it, man! Don’t do it!’”

And then in 2001, Jon Meyerson died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, sending shockwaves throughout the community he built. While his sister tried to run the restaurant for a while, she ultimately let it go. “She finally said that running a burger joint was not for her,” Bonnell said.

Fast forward 21 years, and there’s a new Jon’s Grille by TCU.

Photo courtesy of Jon’s Grille

The idea for a burger and barbecue place came about because of Bonnell’s brother, Ric. Ric is a physician, a professor at TCU’s medical school, and a rancher. Bonnell grinned, “In high school, Ric worked as a ranch hand to make money for his first car. I worked in a clothing shop.” Ric lives with his family on a ranch in Tolar, and he posed a very interesting question to Bonnell.

“What if we raised our own cattle for beef at your restaurants?”

Bonnell said that got him thinking. “Let’s face it. Everybody in Texas is born knowing how to cook a good steak. It’s in the genes.” To make his steaks truly unique, what if he and his brother raised their own beef, beef that you can’t buy in the store? And thus the Bonnell Beef Company was born.

After a lot of research, the brothers have hit on a winning formula for their cattle. The Bonnells breed Akaushi bulls (one of four Japanese cattle breeds known as “waygu”) to Angus heifers. This produces beef that is heart healthy but also delicious.

“Ric wanted the beef to be heart healthy. I just wanted them to taste good,” Bonnell laughed. “The physician versus the chef, I guess.”

The Bonnells control every aspect of the production, from the grazing to the very specific finishing feed which ensures beautiful marbling to the processing. The cattle go from the ranch to a small processor to the restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Jon’s Grille

Most people know about what are called “glory cuts” – the filet mignons, ribeyes, and strips. Bonnell said, “Those are easy to sell, but that’s only 11% of a cow. We had to think, ‘If we’re really going to raise our own cattle for the restaurants, what are we going to do with the rest of the cow?’”

The answer was obvious. “We make the finest hamburgers ever. All the brisket and short ribs and flavorful cuts get ground into our burger meat.”

Bonnell said that opening Jon’s Grille was something of a no-brainer. “I don’t have a lot of fine dining left in me. Fine dining is tough. It’s involved. But this? This is fun.”

Jon’s Grille opened in September of 2022, two years after the pandemic pushed back the planned opening. Bonnell had found the location on West Berry right before the world shut down; once things opened up again, the work started on transforming what had been the Aardvark back into a restaurant.

Photo courtesy of Jon’s Grille

“It needed a complete re-do,” Bonnell said. “We had to take the roof off!” Because the building had been empty for a few years, nothing was up to code. “We took it down to the studs and built it back to our specifications.”

Because of the delay, Bonnell and McOwen had to scrap some of their plans, including a rooftop bar that would have looked out over TCU. However, they left that possibility for later. When it came to naming the new restaurant, Bonnell remembered his old friend.

“First of all, he spelled his name the right way,” Bonnell joked. “But it just seemed right. I talked to his sister who said she would be honored if we dedicated the place to Jon. She had a portrait of him playing his guitar that she gave to us. Jon was a guitar player and instructor, and he played at the Aardvark all the time. It felt right to come full circle, and now we have that picture of Jon hanging on the wall.”

The Meyerson family came to the opening of the new Jon’s Grille. “Everybody loved it. His parents, his siblings… His nephew is working for us now. Jon’s brother showed up wearing the old Jon’s Grille tee shirt, and he pulled me aside to give me Jon’s original business card.”

While the new Jon’s Grille is dedicated to Jon Meyerson’s memory, it is not a faithful recreation of the original. Bonnell didn’t even want to try to recreate it.

Photo courtesy of Jon’s Grille

“First of all, we didn’t want it to be a dive bar. While I love a good dive, I wanted this to be a place for everybody – families coming in after soccer games, college students, faculty… And really, trying to recreate everything wouldn’t have worked anyway. No matter how perfectly we did it, the burgers wouldn’t be the same as you remember them because you aren’t the same.”

So the new Jon’s Grille is all Bonnell. From partnering with local producers like Best Maid Pickles to meticulously curating the menu, Jon’s Grille is fast casual as seen through Bonnell’s fine dining eyes. And it’s truly delicious tribute to a Fort Worth legend.

The post A Delicious Tribute to a Fort Worth Legend first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

In addition to offering 95-cent specials at all locations and $95 gift card giveaways all week long on social media, Riscky’s is hosting a free and open-to-the-public celebratory event from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, October 20, at its Fort Worth Stockyards location at 140 E. Exchange Ave.

Riscky’s in the Stockyards
Photo courtesy of Riscky’s Barbeque

Event attendees will enjoy free barbeque samplers cooked on-site, craft beer courtesy of Ben E. Keith, a live radio broadcast from 95.9 The Ranch, and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. Limited-edition 95th-anniversary t-shirts, glassware, and other prizes will be given to the first 95 attendees, with one lucky winner winning a grand “Overnight in the Fort Worth Stockyards” package, which includes an overnight stay and valet parking at the Hotel Drover, two tickets to the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, and gift cards to Billy Bob’s Texas, Sassy Pantz Boutique, Beef Jerky Experience, and Riscky’s BBQ/Riscky’s Steakhouse.

Riscky’s – Azle Ave in 1927
Photo courtesy of Riscky’s Barbeque

In addition, Riscky’s is offering 95-cent food and drink specials all day long on October 20, including:

• 95¢ chopped beef sandwich
• 95¢ pulled pork sandwich
• 95¢ beef ribs (per rib)
• 95¢ pork ribs (per rib)
• 95¢ brisket tacos (per taco)
• 95¢ fried pickles
• 95¢ Texas fries
• 95¢ soda
• 95¢ tea
• 95¢ single pint of domestic beer*

Riscky’s – Azle Ave in 2022
Photo courtesy of Riscky’s Barbeque

The above specials are valid for dine-in only, and will be offered at all six Riscky’s BBQ locations, which include:

• Riscky’s Barbeque (Stockyards): 140 East Exchange Avenue
• Riscky’s Barbeque (Sundance Square): 300 Main Street
• Riscky’s Barbeque (Westside): 6701 Camp Bowie Blvd.
• Riscky’s BBQ & Deli (original): 2314 Azle Avenue
• Riscky’s BBQ & Deli (Benbrook): 9000 Benbrook Blvd.
• Riscky’s BBQ & Deli (North Richland Hills): 8100 Boulevard 26

Keeping the celebration going, Riscky’s will host social media contests and prize giveaways on its Facebook and Instagram pages throughout the week (October 17-21), including $95 gift card giveaways daily.

“Our 95th-anniversary celebration is a way for us to say, ‘thank you’ to the Fort Worth community, who has kept us barbecuing for almost a century,” said Eddie Sullivan, fourth-generation co-owner of Riscky’s. “We are proud to have reached this milestone and are thankful to our loyal customers who have entrusted us to feed their families for generations. We invite all of you to join us on October 20 for some food, fun, and fellowship. Here’s to another 95 years!”

Riscky’s Chopped Brisket Sandwich
Photo courtesy of Riscky’s Barbeque

The post “Here’s to Another 95 Years!” first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

In response to a Tanglewood Mom’s query about the best desserts in town posed by Heather Mabry, we went through the delicious list of responses and tallied the responses. So here, for the record, are

THE TOP TEN DESSERTS IN FORT WORTH, as voted on by Tanglewood Moms.

In descending order, the top ten margaritas in Fort Worth are

10. Cork & Pig – Key Lime Pie

9. Twigs – Drunken Donuts

8. Rise No3 – Dessert Soufflés

TIE for 7, 6

Del Frisco’s – Lemon Cake

Charleston’s – Bread Pudding

5. The Tavern – Key Lime Pie

4. Del Frisco’s – Coconut Cream Pie

TIE for 3 and 2

Lili’s Bistro – Donuts & Coffee

Swiss Pastry – Black Forest Cake

And, the winner is…

[drum roll]

1. Eddie V’s Banana’s Foster! By a landslide this tasty and classic southern dessert with origins in New Orleans is a Fort Worth favorite!

Interested in the best brunch patios in Fort Worth, As Determined by Tanglewood Moms? Click here!

The post Fort Worth’s Top Ten Desserts, As Determined by the Tanglewood Moms Group first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

Each season they bring us the best of what nature has to offer and this month’s Citrus Fest is just one of those examples. We all know that winter can wreak havoc on our immune system, but getting your daily dose of Vitamin-C can help keep those nasty bugs at bay. We’ve selected some of our favorite CM recipes that are both tasty and healthy and will keep us on track with our New Year’s Healthy Resolutions. Here goes~

SPINACH SALAD WITH CITRUS VINAIGRETTE – yields 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 bunch spinach leaves or 6-8 oz baby spinach
• Salt and pepper
• 3/4 cup canola oil
• 1/2 cup toasted walnut halves
• 4 oz ricotta salata
• 1 Ruby red grapefruit supremed
• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 limes
• 2 lemons
• 1 Ruby red
• 1/3 cup champagne vinegar
• 1 shallot minced
• 1 garlic clove minced

Instructions

1. Juice the grapefruit and oranges.
2. Grate the zest of 1 lemon and 1 lime.
3. Peel and juice the lemons and limes.
4. Combine the lemon and lime zest, lemon, lime, grapefruit and orange juices, garlic, shallot and vinegars in a bowl and mix well.
5. Whisk in the olive oil and canola oil gradually. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Peel the grapefruit and oranges and pull apart into sections.
7. Place the washed spinach in a bowl with the grapefruit sections and walnuts.
8. Toss with 1/2 cup of the vinaigrette. Add more dressing if desired.
9. Arrange the salad on serving plates, being sure that each gets a few grapefruit segments and walnuts.
10. Sprinkle each salad with crumbled ricotta salata and serve immediately.

POM-POM CITRUS SALAD – yields 4 servings

Ingredients

Dressing

• 2 to 3 oranges or tangelos, juiced
• Bunch of Basil
• 1 tablespoon dijion mustard
• 3-5 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

 Salad

• 4 large handfuls of Spring Mix (green leaf lettuce, romaine, or red leaf lettuce)
• 1 large pomegranate
• 1-2 oranges or tangelos, supremed (sectioned)
• 2 radish, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup pecans, roasted

Instructions

Dressing:

1. In a blender or food processor, blend juice with basil, and mustard. Drizzle in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper as necessary.
2. This dressing is meant to be thin and will lightly coat salad

Salad:

1. Wash and chop the greens, place in a salad bowl, and set aside.
2. Peel and open the pomegranate. Remove the seeds and put them in a separate bowl. Add a handful of the pomegranate seeds and ½ of the orange sections to the bed of greens.
3. Pour dressing over the greens and mix with your hands.
4. Sprinkle the rest of the pomegranate seeds, the orange supremes, sliced radish and the toasted pecans on top of the salad.

Pro-Tip: Peeling pomegranates underwater (a full sink or big bowl will work) allows the seeds to sink and the pulp to float – and creates less of a mess, which makes everyone happier.

FESTIVE CEVICHE – yields 16 servings

Ingredients

• 5 lbs firm fleshed fish cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• 2 lemons juiced
• 2 limes juiced
• 1 red pepper finely diced
• 1 green pepper finely diced
• 1 yellow pepper finely diced
• 2 jalapeños seeded and finely diced
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley leaves coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Instructions

1. Spread the fish evenly in a non-reactive pan.
2. Mix the citrus juices and pour over the fish. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. The citrus juice will cook the fish throughout.
3. Add the rest of the ingredients and season with salt and pepper. Serve with tortilla chips or your favorite cracker.

If you’re ready to make an even more serious health change and need help doing so, please check out our newest Madeworthy sponsor located in the Trinity Commons shopping center. Profile by Sanford is a personalized nutrition, activity, and lifestyle coaching program backed by science and individually tailored. They even promise you’ll lose 15% of you rbody weight after 12 months!

The post 2 Salad Recipes and 1 Ceviche Recipe from Central Market’s Citrus Fest first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

The summer season brings on so many beautiful memories for many of us.  One of mine is visiting the farm stands, markets, or berry picking fields on our family trips up to Vineland, NJ, where my family migrated from.  Something about that farm-to-table experience is so special.  The smells are sweeter, the tastes are juicier, the colors are brighter.  On my hunt for farm fresh goodness here in Fort Worth, I stumbled on four very unique and terrific farmer’s market experiences.

The New Kids on the Block

West 7^th Farmer’s Market

Beat the heat and visit this indoor farmer’s market located between Waters and Dude, Sweet Chocolate. We picked up some delicious cucumbers and sampled spicy pickles from Frankie’s Fresh Foods.  Other favorites of ours there are the health and beauty products from SOS BLISS and the black bean and corn tamales from HOT Tamalez.  Word to the wise, you get 2 hours free parking in the parking garage.

2913 Crockett Street-Thursdays 5-8pm

Clearfork Farmers Market-The Trailhead at Clearfork

This outdoor farmer’s market it adjacent to Press Café at the Clearfork Trailhead.  Expect to see locally owned bakeries, grass-fed beef, poultry, pork, farm produce, and craft coffee.  We enjoyed wonderful goat milk yogurt pops from Hidden Valley Creamery.  I also appreciated the potty facilities and shaded picnic areas, which are both essential for families.  This place gets packed, but it’s worth the hunt for a parking space.

4801 Edwards Ranch Rd-Saturdays 8am-Noon

Local Standbys

Cowtown Farmer’s Market

Cowtown has a group of local farmers and artisans that are really passionate about what they do, some with two month’s experience, others with 20 years or more.  This is a no-frills market off of the traffic circle, but if you are looking for the real deal, this is the place to go.  The produce is fresh picked out of the ground and off the trees that morning.  We also saw vendors selling fresh goat cheese, baked goods, and craft coffee.  I had a chance to speak with Katelyn Bennett of Prairie Oasis Farm, which responsibly raises pasture fed chicken, pork, and turkey.  She spoke with such conviction I’m anxious to know more about them!

3821 Southwest Blvd-Saturdays 8am-Noon (Also open Wednesdays in the summer)

Ridgmar Farmer’s Market

This market is fun to come with the kids.  Indoors there are a variety of fresh veggies and fruit, local preserves and eggs.  We enjoyed their strawberries and gorgeous banana peppers which were really reasonably priced.  There is also an attached garden center area that is nice to explore.  However, my absolute favorite part of our visit was the delectable Cowtown Bar-B-Q.  Holy smokes (pun intended) this brisket is to die for and the macaroni and cheese is lip smacking good. You just have to give it a try.

900 Alta Mere Drive (SH 183)-Sun-Thur 8am-8pm and Fri-Sat 8am-9pm

So there you have it, four Fort Worth farmer’s markets that are all very different, all with something special to look forward to. Check their websites to view this week’s vendors.  If you are a farmer’s market newbie, I have a few suggestions.  Arrive early for the best produce picks, take cold water and a hat/sunblock, a reusable bag for your goodies, and even though most vendors take cards, a little cash on hand is advised.  Have fun and shop local!

Christy Ortiz is a Fort Worth native and proud to say so.   She earned her bachelor’s degree from UT Arlington in Interdisciplinary Studies.  She taught for FWISD for eight busy years before switching gears and staying home with her two small children.  Her hobbies are interior decorating for friends, photography, and flying kites with her kids.  Her South American roots and love for the Spanish language and Latin cultures add to the diverse voices of our group.

The post A Guide to Fort Worth’s Farmers’ Markets first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

If you know me personally, you know my alter-ego (thriftyteachermom) prides herself on doing things the thrifty way.  Since becoming a stay-at-home mom, it’s never been more important to my family to spend wisely, and whenever possible, not spend at all.  With summer around the corner for some and in full swing for others, we thought we’d provide you with a list of Fort Worth restaurants that offer free kids meals every day of the week.  All of these freebies are available with purchase of an adult entrée.  Check locations near you for details, some of these deals vary at particular locations.

Everyday or Almost Everyday

*CiCi’s Pizza- 3 and under eat free, some locations, all children eat free

*IHOP- kids eat free beginning 4pm, some locations earlier

*Golden Corral- 3 and under eat free

*Café Brazil- 12 and under eat free after 5pm Sunday-Thursday

Tuesday

*Denny’s- 10 and under eat free, up to two children per adult entrée (check for more days)

*Uno Pizzeria- 12 and under eat free

*Applebee’s- 12 and under eat free

*Black-Eyed Pea 12 and under eat free after 4pm

*Chick Fil A- Kids eat free 5-8pm

Wednesday

*Pollo Tropical- 10 and under eat free

Saturday

*Luby’s- 10 and under eat free (check location for more days)

*Blue Mesa- 6 and under eat free for brunch

*Steak n Shake- 5 and under eat free, 6-12 half off

Sunday

*Blue Mesa- 6 and under eat free for brunch

*Steak n Shake- 5 and under eat free, 6-12 half off

*Dickey’s- 12 and under eat free (check location for more days)

*Habaneros- 12 and under eat free

*Simply Fondue- 13 and under eat free after 5pm

Once again, check with the locations near you to verify these special offers. Hope we can make the dreaded “where should we eat tonight?” question a little easier to answer, as well as a little easier on your wallet!

Christy Ortiz is a Fort Worth native and proud to say so.   She earned her bachelor’s degree from UT Arlington in Interdisciplinary Studies.  She taught for FWISD for eight busy years before switching gears and staying home with her two small children.  Her hobbies are interior decorating for friends, photography, and flying kites with her kids.  Her South American roots and love for the Spanish language and Latin cultures add to the diverse voices of our group.

The post Kids Eat Free in Ft. Worth! first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.

#6 Waters Bonnell’s Costal Cuisine

Waters is the home of Texas-bred culinary genius Chef Jon Bonnell.  We all are happily familiar with his talented creations featuring game meats, but his fresh take on sustainable seafood is drawing crowds to West 7^th.  Enjoy half-off oysters on the half-shell and drink specials from Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm and 4pm-6pm Saturdays.

#5 Pacific Table

Chef Filipe Armenta heads another local favorite at Pacific Table that offers a delicious variety of Northwest American fare with a modern twist.  There’s something for everyone, including steaks grilled to perfection, salads, sandwiches, sushi, and seafood.   Happy hour is Monday-Thursday from 4pm-6pm and includes specials on sushi, oysters, and drinks.

#4 Kona Grill

Everyday has a happy hour at Kona Grill!  If you’re into Asian fusion food, this is the place for you.  Get half price sushi, appetizers, and drink specials, including their popular Sake Sangria.  Happy hours are Monday-Friday 3pm-7pm, late night happy hours Monday-Saturday 9pm-11pm, and all day Sunday.

#3 Blue Sushi

At Blue Sushi, you can enjoy a whole menu of food and drinks on special every day of the week.  There are several sake specialty drinks, as well as more traditional cocktails to choose from.  The food menu offers a variety of sushi, starters, and shared plates.  Check out this menu Monday-Saturday 3pm-6:30pm, Fridays and Saturdays for late night (food only) happy hour 10:30pm-midnight, and Sundays noon-8pm.

#2 Blue Mesa

Here’s another happy hour hot spot in Fort Worth at Blue Mesa.  Drink specials include classic margaritas, mojitos, frozen cocktails, and beer.  The awesome thing about Blue Mesa’s happy hour is the FREE food.  Chow down on the cheese quesadillas and chips and salsa with the purchase of a drink weekdays 4pm-6:30pm. Drink specials go on until 7:30pm.

Drum roll please…

#1 Kent & Co

Occupying the number one spot for best happy hours in Fort Worth is our own local Kent & Co. Wines on West Magnolia.  The Churchills are well known in the area for their cars.  That is part of what makes Kent & Co. such a cool space to hang out in.  Whether you know all about wine or absolutely nothing, you will find yourself in good hands in this casual yet upscale wine bar.  Their knowledgeable staff can help you pick from hundreds of wines poured by the glass and sold at retail prices.  Come on Mondays for and extra good value (15% off select wines) and light eats.

Other Fort Worth notable watering holes we love are Thompsons Bookstore, La Perla Negra, Proper, Press Café, The Live Oak, and The Blu Crab.

We hope you enjoy this list as much as we do.  Bottoms up!

Christy Ortiz is a Fort Worth native, and proud to say so.   She earned her bachelor’s degree from UT Arlington in Interdisciplinary Studies.  She taught for FWISD for eight busy years before switching gears and staying home with her two small children.  Her hobbies are interior decorating for friends, photography, and flying kites with her kids.  Her South American roots and love for the Spanish language and Latin cultures add to the diverse voices of our group.

The post You Voted, We Listened: Fort Worth’s BEST Happy Hours first appeared on Tanglewood Moms.