Discover Our New Dining Experience at The Fork: More Than Just Convenient Eats!

Moving to a new office can be a hassle, but it also brings the excitement of exploring a new area. Our new home at the Design Center is buzzing with places to grab a bite, and we’re already diving into the local food scene.

Our previous office was near Sweetwater Harvest Kitchen, which we enjoyed. Now, we’re above amazing spots like Pizza Centro, Yin Yang, Cleopatra, and Oasis. We’ve wasted no time visiting these eateries, so let’s share our experiences.

First up is Pizza Centro. This downtown pizza spot is well-known for its lunch special: a slice of cheese or pepperoni and a soda for just $6.50. We’ve always held the Southside location in high regard, but our taste buds have shifted. Downtown’s pizza slices truly stand out.

Final Grade: A-

Just a heads up: pizza is greasy and probably not the best daily lunch option. Still, Pizza Centro downtown is one of the few places around where you can quickly grab a satisfying slice without feeling overstuffed.

Next, we ventured to Oasis Ice Cream Shop & Mexican Food. We’ve loved this little gem since we discovered their shake paired with a churro back in 2020. This time, we focused on their street tacos. For just over $6, we enjoyed both carne asada and carnitas tacos. The carne asada blew us away with its rich flavor and perfect seasoning. The carnitas were good too, but we might still prefer the pork tacos from Fusion Tacos if we’re looking for something special. Next on our list from Oasis? Their nacho fries—nachos, but with fries instead of chips!

Final Grade: B+

The carne asada stole the show, while the carnitas were a little dry. Overall, the tacos had generous portions and were a hit!

Finally, we visited Cleopatra, a Mediterranean favorite. Sadly, they were out of the Giz kebabs, but we enjoyed the sheesh tawook—marinated chicken on fluffy pita with onion, tomato, and a tangy homemade sauce. The chicken was incredibly tender and full of flavor. Our friend who joined us noted how crispy and fresh the falafel was, highlighting its herby flair.

Final Grade: A+

Cleopatra remains as delicious as ever. It’s definitely becoming a regular stop for us.

Other Foodie Updates

• Sadly, local favorite Saveur Bistro has closed. Owner Dee Rusanowski decided it was time to step back after many successful years.
• Horno Restaurant is making some upgrades to improve acoustics, which is great news for diners seeking a quieter experience.
• Tibet Kitchen announced new menu items, including boba drinks and unique twists on traditional dishes. We were fans of their food during our last visit.
• Palace Prime is hosting a fundraising dinner on January 23 to support those affected by the recent fires in Los Angeles. Dine there, and they’ll donate a portion of the sales to help!
• Local artist Erin Currier is showcasing her work in several nearby restaurants, each featuring unique pieces that celebrate culinary creativity.

Quick Picks

• A recent study suggests that bottled water may be worse for health than tap water. It highlights concerns about plastic usage and health impacts.
• A thoughtful read on immigration’s impact on restaurant workers offers perspective on potential future challenges in the dining scene. Check it out here.
• Looking to up your wine game? A list of the best wines from Trader Joe’s has been compiled, providing some great recommendations.

This week, our writer revisits Maria’s after years and shares whether the food lives up to the past. Stay tuned for that!