"Deep Ellum, Dallas’ music and nightlife district, is full of classic haunts. The newest addition to the pantheon is Ruins, a Mexican restaurant with Cuban touches, and a patio that opens up to the hustle of Commerce Street. The food here is more interesting than you might expect from a place where the bar takes up half the real estate, and it’s a masterclass in contrasting flavors: sour and sweet (the al pastor), spicy and cooling (the mint-infused chicken tinga). It even translates to the weather—when it’s hot and humid, get an ice-cold frozen paloma. Plus, there’s Dorilocos: pile of hot, cheesy nachos served in a torn open chip bag, which is fun at any time of year." - Nick Rallo
Kathy Tran
