When you think about Tex-Mex, you probably think about crispy flautas with a dollop of guacamole, or maybe a thickly battered poblano plump with spiced beef. What you probably don’t think about, however, is a sizzling skillet of venison, or a hearty elk steak, tampiquena style. At Matt’s Rancho Martinez you can find all that. While the Tex-Mex is a Lakewood institution, a lot of neighbors still don’t know you can order wild game dishes here. But there’s a good reason for that: It’s not on the menu. You have to special order it at least three days ahead, and you typically have to order enough for eight people. You can arrange to eat at the restaurant, or take it to go for your next holiday gathering – either way. Matt’s will prepare that venison, elk, quail or wild boar with a Tex-Mex twist. And although you’re supposed to pre-order game dishes, you can always try your luck and ask your waiter if they have any in stock. If they do, they’ll gladly cook some up for you on the spot.
Matt’s Rancho Martinez
6332 La Vista
214.823.5517
FIVE SPOTS THAT GOT GAME
1 GET WILD
Sample South Texas antelope, Comanche buffalo tacos, or white quail with fried green tomatoes.
Fearing’s
2121 McKinney
2 BIRDS OF A FEATHER
Try a new sort of poultry with pan-seared pheasant instead.
Hector’s on Henderson
2929 Henderson
3 TASTES LIKE CHICKEN
Yes, they’re nuggets, but these are made from alligator meat.
Gator’s
1714 Market
4 SMORGASBORD
You name it, they’ve got it: venison, wild boar sausage, quail, pheasant, buffalo, elk
Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse
702 Ross
5 BREAKFAST DONE RIGHT
Do breakfast right with a New Zealand venison flank with sweet potato hash, or try the venison sausage with Applewood bacon, and eggs.
Kozy
4433 McKinney
