Pumpkin spice lovers, roasted Brussels sprouts enthusiasts and everyone in between deserves to indulge in a picturesque fall date night. So this month, we are embracing seasonal flavors by recommending autumn dishes that will add warmth to any cold October night out. So embrace these ingredients at their peak, all without leaving city limits.
Kirby’s Steakhouse
Kirby’s Steakhouse has been working away on its robust fall menu, filled with both dishes and cocktails that pair perfectly with the season. Start out with one of its new libations like the Baked Big Apple, Redemption rye mixed with sweet vermouth, Frangelico and apple bitters, or the Campfire S’mores Old Fashioned, Redemption bourbon, Balcones Brimstone, cinnamon simple syrup and toasted marshmallows for garnish. While its typical dinner menu does include a few cold-weather favorites, like lobster cargot and mac and cheese, the chef’s latest additions should not be missed. KirbysSteakhouse.com
Il Calabrese
There’s something about a heaping bowl of freshly crafted Italian food that warms the soul. Thankfully, il Calabrese offers a bounty of authentic pasta dishes, each made from imported Italian Molino Pasini organic flour. For a hefty forkful, try the Ravioli di Porcini served with pistachio cream. These seasonal mushrooms are at their best from September to November and add nuttiness and meatiness to dishes. For another fungi-accented pasta course, try the Gnocchi Gratinati, potato dumplings complete with shiitakes, fresh basil, creamed truffle sauce and blue cheese gratin. But the richness doesn’t stop there. Protein-packed entrees like the Ossobuco di Maiale — a bourbon-braised pork shank accented with sauteed shallots, mushrooms and gorgonzola polenta — prove time can be a key ingredient in building flavor. All that’s left to decide is what bottle to order for the table. IlCalabrese.com
‘Lette Macarons
After a night of heavy eating, a light treat can ensure diners can finish their date on a sweet note. ‘Lette Macarons, located across Southlake Boulevard, offers vibrant French confections packed with personality. Its team bakes these delicate almond desserts daily and precisely infuses each with a lush ganache filling, creating a balanced bite. Classic macaron flavors available every day include salted caramel, Colombian coffee and Sicilian pistachio while seasonal delights include pumpkin and peanut butter and jelly, playing off of the schooltime vibes the fall is known for. Need another reason to stop by? ’Lette also offers shortbread cookies and candied almonds. Whether you swing into the store to browse the selection available behind the counter or order these treats online, these sweets are sure to put a smile on your face all year long. LetteMacarons.com