John V.
Yelp
Culpepper (Deep Ellum Location)
This Texas-themed joint covers all the bases: steaks, burgers, and Tex-Mex, all served up in a charming historical building. It's perfect for impressing out-of-towners, casual dates, or just kicking back after work with a drink in hand.
Summary:
You can skip the appetizers, but jump right into the entrées and definitely pair them with some of their ice-cold drinks or cocktails.
Food:
*Pineapple Coconut Shrimp: Not my personal fave. It gave off chain restaurant vibes, but my wife was all over it, especially with the pineapple sauce.
*Meatballs: Solid, but a little on the salty side. Didn't leave me dreaming about them later, but the kids were happy to snack away.
*Combo Fajitas: Cooked to perfection. My only complaint is the lime rind juice, which can hijack the flavor, but otherwise, a fajita fan's dream.
*Hamburger: Surprisingly, this steakhouse churns out one of the best cheeseburgers I've ever had. It's no frills, but it's packed with flavor and definitely makes my top 10 list.
Atmosphere:
Western décor meets neon lights and exposed brick, giving it a retro '80s vibe. It's vintage, but also super clean and inviting.
Service:
Top-notch service every time. I've been three times, and the staff is always on point. There's a not-so-great review floating around about a "blue-haired woman," but if it's Daisy (who served us), she was amazing. Seriously, ask for her if she's working.
Pro Tips:
*Happy hour is from 4-6 pm, and the beers are practically sub-zero.
*Mondays: Cheeseburgers are just $10 all day. But heads up, the kitchen closes at 8:45 pm.
*Fridays: Fajitas are $10 at lunchtime.
*Free private gated parking is a big win.
The best drink: "Mexican from Austin" - a tequila martini that'll make you question all other cocktails. It's a nod to a famous martini from Trudy's in Austin. Try it and prepare for a life-altering experience.
Flip Side Review:
The appetizers? Meh, you can skip 'em. And while the outdoor bar looks tempting, there's a funky smell lingering around that makes the indoor dining option more appealing. The patio could be perfect for cool Texas evenings--if only they could fix that smell.
Overall:
Culpepper is a stellar spot for an ice-cold drink, great tunes, and an even better vibe. Some apps might disappoint, but the entrées, drinks, and service make it absolutely worth your time.