Savor the Flavor: The Best Food & Drink in Richardson 2025
Congratulations to the winners of the Best of Richardson 2025: Food & Drink category! This annual event, presented by Richardson Life magazine, is based on the official community ballot, which celebrates the restaurants, cafes, and bars that make our city a foodie paradise. From fine dining to casual bites, these are the places that have earned the city’s highest honors. This list serves as your official guide to the best food and drink establishments in Richardson. When you’re searching for the “best restaurant in Richardson” or “best bar near me,” you can trust that these winners have been recognized by the people who know the city best—you! You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Bagels and Bakery: Winner: La Casita Bakeshop | https://lacasitagarden.com/ Best Bar: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Company | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Barbeque Restaurant: Winner: Ten50 | http://www.ten50bbq.com Best Bartender (Name & Place): Winner:Grace @ Guitars & Growlers | http://guitarsandgrowlers.com Best Beer or Wine Store: Winner: Richardson Beer and Wine | https://www.richardsonbeerandwine.com/ Best Beer Selection: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Boba Tea: Winner: Fat Straws | http://fatstraws.com Best Breakfast: Winner: First Watch | http://firstwatch.com Best Brewery: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery |https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Brunch: Winner: Dream Cafe | http://dreamcafelakewood.com Best Buffet Restaurant: Winner: Afrah Mediterranean Restaurant | http://www.afrah.com Best Catering: Winner: Justin Box with Good Guys Catering Co. Best Chef (Name & Place): Winner: Justin Box Best Chicken Restaurant: Winner: Chick-fil-A | https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/tx/cityline?utm_source=yext&utm_medium=link Best Chicken Wings: Winner: Wing’d Nut | https://wingdnut.com Best Chinese Restaurant: Winner: Jeng Chi | http://www.jengchirestaurant.com/ Best Cocktails: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Coffeehouse: Winner: Staycation Coffee | http://www.staycationtx.com Best Cookies: Winner: Tiff’s Treats | www.cookiedelivery.comz Best Cupcakes: Winner: Nothing Bundt Cakes | http://www.nothingbundtcakes.com Best Deli: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Desserts: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Diner: Winner: House Cafe Best Distillery: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co. | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Dive Bar: Winner: Tavern on Main Street | http://tavernonmainstreet.com Best Donuts: Winner: Campbell Donuts | https://www.facebook.com/campbelldonuts/ Best Fast Food: Winner: Velvet Taco | http://www.velvettaco.com Best Fine Dining Restaurant: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Food Truck: Winner: Tongue In Cheek Ice Cream | http://www.tongueincheekicecream.com Best French Fries: Winner: Shady’s | https://www.shadysburgers.com Best Fried Chicken: Winner: Golden Chick | https://goldenchick.com Best Greek Restaurant: Winner: Little Greek | http://littlegreekfreshgrill.com Best Grocery Store: Winner: Sprouts Farmers Market | http://sprouts.com Best Hamburger: Winner: Del’s Charcoal Burgers | http://www.delsburgers.com Best Happy Hour: Winner: Lockwood Distilling Co. | https://lockwooddistilling.com Best Hidden Gem: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Ice Cream: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Best Indian Restaurant: Winner: Imperial Biryani & Cafe | http://imperialbiryanicafe.com Best Italian Restaurant: Winner: Partenope | http://partenopedallas.com Best Japanese Restaurant: Winner: Maru Ramen | http://www.maruramen.com Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant: Winner: Hat Creek Burger Co. | http://hatcreekburgers.com Best Latin Restaurant and Margarita: Winner: Sueño | http://www.suenomextex.com Best Mexican Restaurant: Winner: Dos Arroyos Comida Casera | http://www.dosarroyoscomidacasera.com Best Middle Eastern Restaurant: Winner: Afrah Restaurant | http://www.afrah.com Best New Restaurant: Winner: Partenope | http://partenopedallas.com Best Patio: Winner: Shady’s | https://www.shadysburgers.com Best Pizza: Winner: Industrial Pizza | http://www.industrialpizzaandbrew.com Best Romantic Restaurant: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Sandwich: Winner: The Great Outdoors Sub Shop | http://greatoutdoorsubs.com Best Seafood Restaurant: Winner: Anaya’s | http://richardson.anayaseafood.com Best Soul Food: Winner: Trucker Cafe | http://truckers-cafe.weeblyte.com Best Specialty Market: Winner: Sara’s Market | http://sarasmediterraneanmarket.com Best Sports Bar: Winner: The Mad Hatter Neighborhood Pub | http://www.themadhattertx.com Best Steakhouse: Winner: Texas | https://www.thesonoftexas.com Best Sushi: Winner: Sushi Sake | http://www.sushisake.info Best Take Out: Winner: Bella Flan | http://bellaflan.com Best Thai/Vietnamese Restaurant: Winner: Sticky Rice – Richardson | http://stickyricetx.com Best Upscale Bar: Winner: The Fifth | https://www.thefifthtx.com Best Vegetarian / Vegan Restaurant: Winner: Nuno’s Tacos & Vegmex Grill | http://order.toasttab.com Best Wine Selection: Winner: The Wine Authority | https://thewineauthorityonline.com/ A huge thank you to all the voters and nominees who showcased the incredible talent and dedication in Richardson’s food and drink industry. Head out and try these fantastic spots for yourself!
Discover the Best of Richardson 2025: Arts & Entertainment
The official results are in! Presented by Richardson Life Magazine and based on the community’s votes in our 2025 ballot, we’re thrilled to announce the winners for the Arts & Entertainment category. Richardson is a city bursting with creativity, from live music venues to captivating art galleries. This year’s event celebrates the places and people that make our city a hub for culture and fun. This directory is your guide to the top-voted spots, recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community’s vibrant cultural scene. You can view the full ballot results and methodology here: Best of Richardson 2025 • Richardson Life Magazine Best Art Gallery: Winner: Crow Museum of Asian Art at UTD | https://www.crowmuseum.org Best Cultural Event: Winner: Richardson Symphony Orchestra | http://richardsonsymphony.org Best Event Venue: Winner: Richardson Woman’s Club | http://www.rwctx.org Best Family Entertainment: Winner: Free Play Arcade | https://freeplayrichardson.com/ Best Festival: Winner: Wildflower! Arts and Music Festival Best Live Music Event: Winner: Wildflower! | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com Best Fundraising Event: Winner: Network Fork Off Best Live Music Venue: Winner: Four Bullets Brewery | https://www.fourbulletsbrewery.com/ Best Live Theater Group: Winner: Richardson Theatre Center | https://richardsonsymphony.org/ Best Local Band: Winner: The She | http://theshemusic.com Best Movie Theater: Winner: Alamo Drafthouse | https://drafthouse.com/dfw/theater/richardson Best Museum: Winner: Crow Museum of Asian Art | https://www.crowmuseum.org Best Musician: Winner: Brian Erickson Best Outdoor Event: Winner: Cottonwood Art Festival Best Place for Kids’ Birthday: Winner: Sweet Firefly | http://www.sweetfirefly.com Thank you to everyone who participated in the ballot! Your vote helps highlight the fantastic businesses and organizations that make Richardson a wonderful place to live and visit. Be sure to check out these award-winning spots and experience the best that Richardson’s arts and entertainment scene has to offer.
The Benefits of Breaking Bread
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/DeborahDobbsheadshot.webp[/author_image] [author_info]By Deborah Dobbs, MA[/author_info] [/author] Many years ago, I read a book by Christine Carter, PhD, called Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents. My daughter was five at the time and I instantly incorporated the tips into our lives (they indeed were simple). In her book, Dr. Carter emphasized the value of sitting down as a family to share a meal. Fortunately, this was something my daughter and I already did, probably because I grew up that way. However, I wasn’t aware of the research supporting the mental health benefits of gathering around the table. Since the book’s 2011 publication, additional studies have upheld these conclusions. Studies, Studies, Studies A 2017 study in Family Relations found that families who eat together regularly report stronger emotional bonds, with kids feeling more supported and parents feeling more connected. Even in tough times, a simple group meal can feel like an anchor, reminding us we’re not alone. Per a 2018 Pediatrics study, regular family dinners are linked to lower rates of anxiety and depression in kids because they feel seen and valued. It’s not just families, though. Friends, coworkers, or even strangers at a community supper can feel like a tribe after sharing a spread. A 2020 study in Journal of Community Psychology showed that communal meals reduce feelings of loneliness and boost well-being, especially for older adults or those living alone. Here’s an interesting observation: a 2019 Appetite study found people eat healthier in groups, opting for veggies over fries when others do, too. Happiness, Relationships and Community Eating together signals inclusion. It sparks conversations that deepen relationships. Whether it’s debating the best wood for smoking a brisket or swapping stories at a potluck, these moments build trust and camaraderie. Eating together also builds habits that stick. Children learn manners, gratitude, and even cooking skills by watching adults at the table. For adults, regular group meals reinforce discipline, like sticking to healthier choices or unplugging from screens. Traditions born at the table—Sunday brunches, annual cookouts—become touchstones, giving life rhythm and meaning. Stuck in a Rut? The Brain Craves Novelty. Whether dining in or out, consider trying new recipes or types of foods. Our brains benefit from novelty. When we encounter something new, our brain releases dopamine (a “feel-good” chemical). New experiences also boost our creativity and enhance neuroplasticity, thereby improving memory. Trying new things helps us adapt to change and feel more confident when faced with uncertainty. If you’re going out, consider something engaging (and delicious), like Korean Barbecue or Shabu-Shabu. Go someplace you’ve never been. If you’re staying at home, cook a new recipe. Venture out of your comfort zone. Share the cooking tasks and let the conversation flow. Do What Works In our busy, screen-filled lives, eating together takes effort, but it’s worth it. There were times in my life when schedules were so packed (or I was so exhausted) that my daughter and I ate together in the car. We shared most meals at the table, but I admit that some of my favorite food memories involved eating in the parked car while watching funny cat videos. My daughter’s an adult now, living an hour away, but sometimes we still meet and eat in the car, where we can talk and laugh loudly without disturbing anyone. The point is to do what works for you. Regardless of where you are, every bite shared is a step toward connection, feeding both body and soul.
Ly Tieu: Owner of NOMIS Catering
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/File-1.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]By Patti Otte[/author_info] [/author] In 1980, a young Vietnamese man, his pregnant wife, and their eight children boarded a boat headed for freedom in the United States. During the journey, the expectant mother delivered a baby girl on the boat. That little baby would wait seven years to meet her father, as he was caught during the journey and sent to prison. That baby girl made it to America with her mom and siblings and began a new life. She is entrepreneur Ly Tieu, owner of NOMIS Catering and a familiar face in Richardson. The Early Years When Tieu’s dad came to the US, he wanted to open a family business. That restaurant, named Quoc Ly Restaurant after Tieu, was a place for her not only to learn the value of hard work but also to discover the power of community. Tieu recalls, “The mayor would stop by a lot, teachers from our school would come in for lunch, and our friends would come in to try our food.” She loved making people happy by serving them her parents’ culinary creations. Tieu credits her work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit to her parents. As a young woman, Tieu was a stay-at-home mother to her four children and had a part-time position at Prestonwood Baptist Church as a Special Needs teacher. For five years, Tieu juggled motherhood, teaching, and her work as the manager of The Drawing Board, her brother Tim’s co-working office space in Richardson. But life took an unexpected turn for Tieu and her family. A Business Built from Heartache Almost six years ago, Tieu suffered a devastating loss when her oldest son, Simon, was tragically killed in a car accident. After Tieu lost Simon, she stopped making special meals, opting instead for simple dinners with her three children. However, she hosted a big party every year on Simon’s birthday and on his goodbye anniversary. She’d invite all his closest friends and family and serve food buffet style. Thankfully, that tradition planted a seed in her mind, and one day, it just clicked. She thought to herself, “Start your own catering business! Name it after Simon!” NOMIS Catering She is now the proud owner of NOMIS Catering. The name is an homage to Simon: it’s his name spelled backwards and pronounced “no-miss.” NOMIS Catering specializes in charcuterie boards: themed charcuterie boxes, charcuterie trays, and grazing tables. Tieu makes everything fresh and uses top-quality ingredients. States Tieu, “I pour my heart and soul into my work. There’s so much satisfaction in seeing my customers enjoy my food down to the last crumb. I appreciate all the feedback that I get and I thank Simon every time an order is fulfilled.” Life Beyond Catering While Tieu says she will never stop missing Simon, she has three other children, Sari, Ty, and Evi, who, she says, are the reasons she wakes up each morning. She and her children have lived in Richardson for the past six years. Tieu credits her ability to survive both the grief journey and life as a single mother to the proximity and unwavering support of her extended family. Tieu has also enthusiastically immersed herself in the Richardson community. She was in Leadership Richardson’s Class 38. States Tieu, “It was an amazing experience for me. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and has helped me build up my confidence and leadership skills. I met the greatest people and learned so many things about the city of Richardson.” She also recently joined the Citizens Fire Academy and hopes to one day participate in the Citizens Police Academy. For more information or to place an order, email nomis.catering@gmail.com or call 469-630-5793. Follow Tieu’s business on Instagram @nomis_catering.
Meeting the Need: How the Local Good Pantry Is Feeding Richardson with Dignity
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’][/author_image] [author_info]By Local Good Pantry Director Tracy Parlin[/author_info] [/author] In November 2023, the Local Good Pantry opened its doors. In response to another pantry’s closure, we founded Local Good Pantry as a commitment to help address growing food insecurity in the area. Since then, the number of neighbors we serve and feed has grown from around 200 individuals per day to around 650. That’s more than 2,100 people per week, representing more than 6,300 family members. We are proud to be part of the Local Good Collective, a community initiative from Chase Oaks Church that includes the Local Good Center, Local Good Coffee Co., and Local Good Resale. Proceeds from the coffee company and resale shop funnel back into the food pantry and Local Good Center to keep our essential services running. Who We Serve We operate three days a week, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and we support two groups of neighbors: Drive-up neighbors. These families and individuals have registered through the TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) with the North Texas Food Bank. They receive weekly boxes filled with fresh produce, meat, bread, fruit, and dessert. Walk-up neighbors. Most of these individuals are experiencing homelessness or have limited access to kitchen facilities. They receive “ready-to-eat” bags with water, sandwiches, peanut butter, granola bars, and more. On average, approximately 200 walk-up neighbors are served each day. Partnership and Collaboration The Local Good Pantry’s ability to serve thousands each week is a group effort. Our partnership with North Texas Food Bank gives us weekly access to three deliveries and 21 retail pickups from partner stores. Along with logistical support from the Pantry’s own staff and volunteers, this network ensures consistent access of food for those who need it. Collaboration, not competition, is a key to meeting overall demand in our area. The needs are great, so we work together with other pantries to make sure our neighbors are provided assistance. One way the community supports us is through sandwich-making events. Businesses and other groups host these events, which foster teamwork while providing hundreds of sandwiches for our walk-up neighbors. They’re a simple way for people to get involved, even for just a few hours. Prioritizing Dignity When we first opened, we noticed something troubling. A hole had been cut in the fence behind our building, near the Beltline DART stop. Walk-up neighbors were crawling through the hole on their hands and knees to access food. It was heartbreaking to see them sacrificing their personal dignity and risking injury, just to eat. We notified DART of the situation during our Grand Opening. One week later, they came to observe. Shortly after that, they installed a brand-new, wrought-iron gate and walkway wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers. Our neighbors knew this change was made just for them. Dignity is still central to everything we do. We work to ensure our neighbors are seen and heard. Early on, many neighbors requested boxes without pork due to dietary or religious reasons. As a result, we implemented a color-coded bag system and began noting “NP” (No Pork) on cars during check-in. It’s a small detail that allows us to honor personal dietary choices. We also give every child in a vehicle a “Buddy Bag” with a fun surprise, which helps make their wait more enjoyable. It’s a way for us to tell these kids, “We see you. You matter.” How You Can Help Our success is driven by the incredible commitment of our volunteers and staff. They are the heartbeat of the Pantry. So far this year, volunteers have given 5,350 hours of their time. Here’s how you can get involved: Volunteer for a distribution shift(Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays). Join a prep day to help us prep the day before distribution. Host a sandwich-making or hygiene-packing event. Purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist, including diapers, wipes, and hygiene products, which are especially vital to our walk-up neighbors. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2D00KON3AFBMZ?ref_=abls_nvfly_yl We also encourage families to volunteer together! Children ages 8 and up can serve during Distribution Days. Five times a year, we have Family Serve Days, with special activities for all ages. Younger ones can make “Dogger Bags” for our furry friends and “Buddy Bags” given to children who are waiting in line with their families. They can also write notes for our neighbors. A Place To Receive and Give Back We are here if you need a helping hand—and if you want to lend one. Whether you choose to volunteer, donate, or simply help us spread the word, we’d love to have you be a part of what’s happening at the Local Good Pantry in Richardson. For more information about Richardson’s Local Good Pantry and how to support our mission, visit localgoodpantry.org. The Local Good Pantry’s mission is to provide good food and essentials with great dignity to those in our community.
Fast Friends Make Lasting Impact in Richardson
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Patie-Otte-2025.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]By Patti Otte[/author_info] [/author] In Richardson, five friends have quietly become key players in the city’s growing food scene. As co-owners of three successful restaurants, their partnership is built on decades of friendship and a shared vision of quality and community investment. What began as a simple idea between friends has evolved into a business venture that’s not only fed thousands but also contributed to the city’s economic vitality. Their story offers a look at how personal relationships and strategic investment can leave a lasting mark on a city’s development. The Five Friends Richardson residents Greg Cooney, Don Bouvier, Anthony Bolner, Dave Swiney, and Steve Gumbert have each called Richardson home for more than 25 years. Together, they operate under the name CCBC Enterprises, short for Canyon Creek Burger Crowd. Despite their success in the restaurant industry, none of them started out in food service. Bouvier and Bolner are both in commercial real estate. Gumbert works in industrial distribution and Swiney is retired from KPMG, where he worked in business advisory and legal consulting. Cooney was formerly in the insurance industry prior to jumping into real estate development, among other things. Cooney and Bouvier serve as the managing partners for the restaurants. A Vision Takes Shape In 2002, Canyon Creek Plaza, a once-thriving retail space,e was dealt a major blow after its anchor tenant, Tom Thumb, moved out. The vacancy sparked a heated local debate: should the space be repurposed for a Montessori school, or should the shopping center be preserved and revitalized? As a member of the Canyon Creek HOA board, Bouvier led the efforts to ensure the shopping center could be revitalized into a mixed-use development. Ultimately, the City Council sided with revitalization, approving a planned development zoning to allow for a broader vision. Long before CCBC was formed, Cooney and a couple of partners spearheaded efforts to reimagine the struggling center, raised local neighborhood investment dollars, rezoned the shopping center, and ultimately purchased it in 2004. Their initial efforts were met with skepticism from the broader business community. Many doubted that a tucked-away center in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood could ever become a successful commercial hub. The shopping center was rebranded as II Creeks. The Birth of Shady’s At the time, Richardson was largely considered a bit of a food desert. Michael Marks was the first restaurant to open following the major remodeling of II Creeks. Frankie’s, now occupied by Dos Arroyos, was the second, followed by Sweet Firefly Gourmet Ice Cream in 2011. The friends who would later form CCBC Enterprises envisioned something different but complementary to what was already there, a super relaxed, patio-centric, casual place where people could gather, celebrate, and connect. As friends meeting up at II Creeks, they would often talk amongst themselves about opening their place. By the summer of 2012, and with Cooney’s involvement managing II Creeks, that vision gained momentum when the hair salon occupying the space, which would eventually become Shady’s, decided to close their doors. The group began sketching out plans for a place with the charm of Cheers casual, community-focused eatery. After talking with neighbors, testing the idea among friends, and drumming up support, 27 investors joined the cause. On April 1, 2013, Shady’s Burgers & Brewhaha officially opened. Chili’s founder, Larry Lavine, provided early guidance as a consultant. The group met every Wednesday morning to plan at the Canyon Creek Country Club until its launch. “A lot of folks helped,” said Bouvier. “If not for the commitment of the Canyon Creek neighborhood, our families and friends, it wouldn’t have happened. It was the encouragement we needed.” Expansion into Lake Highlands The early success of Shady’s proved the neighborhood restaurant model worked, and not just in Canyon Creek. As the group began exploring locations for a second restaurant, they found themselves in Lake Highlands, another community lacking in local dining options. A friend of the group pointed them to the location, and during a site visit, a large shade tree caught their eye. It felt like a sign. Once again, the team turned to local investors. Within just 10 days, they crowdfunded the new restaurant this time with backing from both Richardson and Lake Highlands residents. On July 20, 2016, the second Shady’s Burgers & Brewhaha opened its doors. The Fifth When a restaurant tenant at II Creeks decided to close, fearful of what might become of the space, CCBC saw an opportunity. They transformed the space into The Fifth, a fine-dining concept that opened on Valentine’s Day in 2019. The name came naturally, it was the fifth restaurant in that location, and fittingly, it was launched by the same five friends. Giving Back Community support goes both ways. CCBC Enterprises gives back to local causes, including neighborhood schools, youth organizations, and local high school programs. They regularly support Young Life’s Wing-a-Thon and host a nondenominational men’s Bible study every Friday at 6:30 a.m. at Shady’s, a tradition that’s continued for more than a decade. Both Bouvier and Swiney are graduates of Leadership Richardson. They’re active Chamber members and regularly hire neighborhood teens, offering them their first jobs. “We’ve hired hundreds of kids,” said Cooney. “We make sure it’s a great experience, so the lasting impact is a positive one.” Leaving A Legacy Today, other cities are reaching out to CCBC Enterprises to understand what the “secret sauce” is that makes their model work. As for their own future plans, the group says they are “noodling around new ideas all the time…but nothing newsworthy yet.” Former Richardson City Manager Bill Keffler sums up their legacy best: “As City Manager, I had the good fortune of working with some very successful developers and restaurant entrepreneurs, but to work with [CCBC Enterprises] on such an impactful project was one of the highlights of my career. The group was able to overcome historical impediments It has indeed been a pleasurable relationship, and I am proud to call them good friends.” Thanks to the early leadership and the bold vision brought to life
Feeding RISD Students During Summer Break and Beyond
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Information provided by Richardson Independent School District Richardson ISD’s Child Nutrition Department, led by Executive Director of Child Nutrition Alissa Gustof, strives to provide meals that are not only popular with students but also delicious, nutritious, and affordable. Months of work go into each new menu item, planning for the summer, and staying abreast of USDA guidelines. Gustof and her team attend food shows, receive continuous training, and visit other school districts to determine best practices within the industry and ensure that RISD’s meal program is top-notch. Assessing Menu Items Eating on campus is affordable, given that students can purchase breakfast or lunch for less than $3.00, along with a la carte items which vary from week to week. Each year the department analyzes which offerings are popular, which aren’t, and what can be added to enhance the menus. Gustof’s stated goal is to replicate students’ preferences and find ways to fit their preferences into USDA guidelines/regulations within cost parameters dictated by the District’s budget. When assessing new options, new recipes are first sampled in test kitchens and then in the field, with employees preparing the food and getting “buy-in” from employees. Once a menu item passes the “employee test,” the team solicits feedback from students. 1000 surveys were completed for the menu items that will be added for the ‘25-‘26 school year. Several new and exciting menu options have recently been introduced by Gustof’s team. A spicy chicken sandwich is a crowd favorite, as is the new chicken curry dish. They’ve also added bento boxes, orange chicken, spicy tacos, tamales, jerk chicken, and curry rice and beans. Summer Meal Resources In spite of the district’s affordable breakfast and lunch options, 52% of all students qualify for free and reduced lunches, making a summer food program absolutely essential to the welfare of more than half of the District’s students. RISD’s answer to this growing need is its Seamless Summer Option, an extension of the national school lunch program. This summer, six summer school sites will be serving lunch, two of which are home to refugee services as well. RISD responds to the community’s need for food availability during the summer months through two resources. First, the district offers summer meals from May 29 – Aug. 1 at various locations, all of which can be found on the district’s website. Summer meals must be eaten on campus and cannot be taken to go. However, students are not required to show ID, and any young person who is between the ages of 1 and 18 will be served a meal. In addition, the Network of Community Ministries mobile food pantry stops at different places around RISD duringthe summer months. The Network Mobile Market schedule can be found on their website at network.org. A Focus on Wellness Gustof shares a message about the importance of both nutrition and overall wellness via the department’s website. She emphasizes the importance of both nutrition AND fitness, and the site provides information on these topics for teachers, parents, and students,s along with a variety of learning tools. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Del’s Returns After Fire, Fueled by 68 Years of Richardson’s Support
[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://richardsonlifemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Morgan.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]By Morgan Austin[/author_info] [/author] On the corner of Polk and McKinney lies a historic staple restaurant in the downtown Richardson community, Del’s Charcoal Burgers. On a sweltering afternoon in late May, I visited the owner, Hossein “Hoss” Taherzadeh, who explained how a fire that occurred April 25 deeply affected the Richardson community with Del’s temporary closure. Recovering from a fire is no easy feat for any business. As Hoss showed me around the kitchen, amid the construction and new appliances, he recounted how a long-time regular called him up distraught as soon as he heard about the unfortunate news. Del’s has fed the community for 68 years, with Hoss at the helm for the past 22; as Hoss and I chatted about the future of his restaurant, while his team was hard at work repainting the place and setting up the new grill, I couldn’t help but notice one regular after the other stopping by to give Hoss all their best wishes. Walking into Del’s is like stepping back into the ‘70s. Hanging above the counter is their original menu, with longtime classics like a smoked frank with chili, cheese, and onions. Though the prices have changed over the decades—55 cents for a smoked frank back in 1957—the options themselves have remained remarkably consistent. It’s no wonder that the restaurant’s popularity has only grown over the years, given that the menu boasts a burger for 8 bucks (and, if you’re vegan like I am, they offer a veggie patty burger combo with tots). Hoss recalled when a Dr Pepper CEO once visited Del’s and was enamored by the menu and vintage memorabilia, so much so that the CEO gifted Dr Pepper clocks and signs to hang along the walls. Fortunately, the signs and original menu were saved from the fire and only needed a few retouches. Hoss emigrated to the US from Iran and quickly fell in love with the small-town charm of Richardson. Living just down the road gave Hoss insight into the nature of this tightly knit neighborhood and he got to see firsthand how even a small cornerstone restaurant could bring together such a warm community. That same community stood by his side to support him and Del’s during the closure and he couldn’t wait to be “back as soon as possible for another 68 years.” One man I spoke with who came by to check on Hoss said he’s been consistently coming to Del’s for the past year since he moved from West Virginia. Don Magner, Richardson City Manager and long-time Del’s regular, explained how his boss first introduced him to Del’s, which by then had already cemented itself into the Richardson community for 30 years. States Magner, “Del’s is the place that ties the new and the old together in Richardson. It was there as the city grew and it’ll be there for the community as it develops even further.” Del’s offers a flavor and vibe that can’t be matched by other chains or corporate-owned restaurants and the community knows that. Del’s has been the site for countless college and high school student gatherings. Whether it’s a Richardson High football team celebrating a hard-earned victory or a family looking to kick back with a house-made root beer float after a long week, Del’s provides a friendly atmosphere gushing with tasty authenticity fit for all of Richardson. Thankfully, despite the fire, Del’s Charcoal Burgers is still dishing out its best and still features the same classic menu with some behind-the-scenes upgrades, along with a new soda fountain. If you haven’t already discovered Del’s, now’s the time.
Flan of a Kind
Tucked into the heart of Richardson is a café that feels less like a business and more like a warm embrace. Bella Flan, co-owned by Siv and Albert Lopez, is a longstanding local favorite that stands out not just for its delicacies and drinks, but for the way its adoring customers feel immediately at home when they step through the door. Siv is often diligently working up front, greeting everyone like an old friend and remembering every single name, life story, and favorite order – even if they’ve only visited once before. Combining incredible food with care for community, Bella Flan is truly a Richardson “sweet spot.” Let’s start with the heart of it – how did Bella Flan come to be? What inspired you to open a café like this in Richardson? I am a longtime Richardson resident – this is homeI I love connecting with people, so I connect to my beloved community with food. It’s a universal language that brings people together. Bella Flan is a unique specialty bakery, a Cuban bakery with a modern twist and Asian influence. It is a celebration of cultures—a reflection of my family, a blend of Chinese and Cuban culture, but also the beautiful, diverse world we live in. What’s a must-try on the menu for a first-time customer? Our food is a mix of familiarity and one-of-a-kind finds-there’s something for everyone! Great first savory bites would be the Cubano sandwich and the Cuban stuffed potato balls. The Cubano is a hot-pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, pickles, swiss cheese, and our signature mojo mustard, served with freshly sliced and fried plantain chips and a house-made mojo dipping sauce. The potato ball is filled with either ground beef, crawfish etouffee, or poblano and cheese, breaded, and fried. For a sweet treat, I’d recommend our signature flan or our fresh pastelitos. A pastelito is a flaky puff pastry with a warm center filling of either guava, guava and cream cheese, strawberry and cream cheese, coconut, or apple. What are some of your bestsellers, and do you have a personal favorite? The most popular items are our Cubano sandwich, flan, potato balls, and empanadas. Our flan is a proud family recipe passed down through generations. We offer our original classic Cuban flan, café, coconut, and a variety of flan cake flavors ranging from chocolate to Asian-inspired flavors like ube, coconut pandan, and lychee strawberry. I personally love the Bella Frita burger and fried flan-both are Bella Flan originals. The burger is a house-made smash beef and pork patty, dressed in garlic cilantro aioli and topped with haystack fries. The layers of flavor within the burger make it deliciously unique. You have a special gift for making people feel seen. You remember names, stories, even favorite menu items after a single interaction. How do you build that kind of connection so quickly? My love language is people, food, warm hugs, and I-love-yous. It comes naturally from the heart and I truly live by this. I can’t control what goes on outside my four walls, but what I can control is the love and kindness going in and out of Bella Flan. Everyone is greeted with a warm smile and treated with respect and kindness. Most customers seem to turn instantly into regulars. What do you think makes Bella Flan feel like home to them? I’m proud to have an approachable, kind team and a bright, cheery space, but it’s also thanks to our amazing customers who fill the space with love and laughter. They strike up conversations and make new visitors feel at home, too. Bella Flan is such a special place and I’m incredibly blessed to be here. How has the Richardson community supported Bella Flan, and how have you poured love back into the neighborhood? I love our Richardson community. We have been blessed to have Richardson love and support us from the beginning! I appreciate all the ways they’ve supported us through challenges: showing grace when things aren’t running as smoothly, dropping in just to check on us as we navigated the pandemic and economic roller coaster rides, and allowing me to comfortably share my health challenges and lupus journey through listening ears. I hope the community feels my love reciprocated through our embrace of and connection with each customer and through our food. We also like to support our local schools by donating to auction baskets. During the May 2024 storm, we were fortunate to have power and opened our cafe so people could charge their phones, have a warm safe place to spend the day, or get some work done. Can you share a favorite moment or memory with a guest that really stuck with you? I think my favorite connection through Bella Flan is sharing life’s journey with my customers. One standout moment: a thoughtful customer gifted me an old scrapbook from a family member’s 1957 travels to Jamaica and Cuba. It’s a treasure with beautiful photographs and typewriter details. I keep this album at the bakery. What do you hope people feel when they leave Bella Flan? I hope people leave here with hearts happy and tummies full, knowing the kind smile they were greeted with was genuine. I hope we added sweetness to their day and gave them a piece of home. Find Bella Flan: Open daily except Wed 819 W Arapaho Rd, Richardson 214-566-3656 www.bellaflan.com