La Duni Latin Cafe

Description:

• How cool is a restaurant that has its own "artisan" car wash next door? Pretty cool, I'd say. One of my favorite spots to hang out in Dallas, this extremely popular place trots out extremely fresh, carefully prepared, and tasty versions of favorites from across the Americas. Although it may be best known among sweet tooths for its sinful desserts and pastries, it's also a terrific spot for lunch and dinner (and brunch on weekends). Good appetizers include the stuffed arepa (corn masa patty) and empanadas criollas (stuffed turnover pastries). Great for lunch are the array of yummy tortas (Latin sandwiches). And classic entrees include pollo al aljibe, quite a bit fancier than I've had in Cuba, and grilled asado (chimichurri-marinated beef). Desserts are not to be missed; the sweet and moist cuatro leches cake is nearly famous, but I'm just as fond of the cupcakes and triple-chocolate truffle cake. Slickly attractive, La Duni's fantastic cocktails, such as the famed margarinha and the mojito, also draw aficionados and give it a bit of a bar scene in the evening. Children will feel at home in the relaxed atmosphere, and they'll surely enjoy some of the simpler items on the menu, such as chicken-and-cheese enchiladas and quesadillas. But their eyes will really light up when they see the dessert counter. Brunch is a deservedly popular affair. Look for a new La Duni Latin Kitchen in NorthPark Center, a great pit stop during shopping excursions.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010