This week in gluttony
These are the 10 best food and drink events in Fort Worth this week
It’s a week full of celebration: Fat Tuesday, National Margarita Day, a big barbecue anniversary, and an early taste of spring. Don’t miss a potential President’s Day freebie to start the week. Looking for Mardi Gras king cake-inspired treats? Find a handy list here.
Monday, February 20
Presidents Day at World of Beer Bar & Kitchen
If you share the same last name of any U.S. President, then prepare for a little presidential treatment: a free build-your-own burger at World of Beer. Just present a valid I.D. to prove your credentials. The special is valid only on Presidents Day 2023 and note that certain toppings may add an additional cost.
Tuesday, February 21
Mardi Gras at Fish City Grill
Let the good times roll at this festive seafood chain, which will host live music for Mardi Gras at all of its DFW locations. In Tarrant County, that includes Southlake and Mansfield, and there’s a Burleson location, as well. Crawfish will be on the menu for $9.99 per pound, and other New Orleans specialties will include the classic hurricane, gumbo, and plenty of beads to go ‘round.
David’s Barbecue 113th Anniversary Celebration
The Pantego barbecue joint will celebrate 113years in the business with a big throwback special: $1.13 (a penny for each year) for smoked turkey, smoked ham, brisket, and sausage sandwiches. The deal will start at 11 am and run until 8 pm or until the meat runs out. The family-owned-and-operated restaurant has roots dating back to 1910. That’s when Elias Bryan, the great-grandfather of current pitmaster and fourth-generation proprietor, Jimmy Harris, opened the family’s first barbecue restaurant in Oak Cliff.
Fat Tuesday at Tulane’s
Fat Tuesday celebrations that actually land on Fat Tuesday are few and far between in Fort Worth, but this New Orleans-inspired bar in The Foundry District never misses a Mardi Gras. Open at 3 pm, Tulane’s will feature vendors, tarot readings, drink specials, live music, and food trucks, including The Beignet Bus. Tulane’s is also known for its large and deliciously floppy pizza slices, and the kitchen is open late.
Fat Tuesday Crawfish Boil at J. Gillian’s
An Arlington establishment iconic for its St. Patrick’s Day celebration every year is testing the waters with an inaugural Mardi Gras party. J. Gillian’s will host a cornhole tournament that coincides with Fat Tuesday. Go for free crawfish, live music, drink specials, and giveaways. The party is sponsored by Shiner Bock and begins at 5 pm.
The Ultimate Taco Challenge at El Chingon
Fat Tuesday is traditionally a time for indulgence, and this taco-eating contest fits right in with tradition. Gather your team of four and compete to devour 42 tacos in four minutes and 20 seconds at the West 7th district bar and restaurant. The team that finishes fastest wins a bottle of Don Julio 1942 and an El Chingon gift card. Note that the tequila must be redeemed for bottle service the night of the event. Teams can register in advance online. Check in from 7-7:30 pm and the contest will start at 8 pm.
Wednesday, February 22
National Margarita Day at Texas Live
Here’s a National Margarita Day bar crawl worth taking the day off. Visit the Arlington entertainment complex for $5 margarita specials all day long. Plan ahead for the following stops with these specialty drinks: jalapeno margarita at the Texas Live arena, frozen strawberry and classic rocks at Rangers Republic, pomegranate margarita at Troy’s, and watermelon margarita at Lockhart Smokehouse. The $5 specials will start at 11 am.
Wine Dinner and Communal Gathering at FnG Eats
The Keller dining destination will host one of its popular communal wine dinners featuring multiple comfort food courses. This one offers smoked tomato and prosciutto salad, smoked brisket mac and cheese, beef tournedos and garlic greens and potato torts, and apple cinnamon empanadas with miso caramel sauce and fresh cream. All courses will be paired with wines. The dinner is $75 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and begins at 7 pm.
Thursday, February 23
Meet the Maker at Toro Toro
The flashy Latin steakhouse located on the ground floor of the Worthington Renaissance hotel downtown hosts a complimentary spirits tasting on the last Thursday of each month. On the heels of National Margarita Day, Toro Toro will feature 21 Seeds Tequila. Visit from 5-7 pm for samples and take advantage of happy hour pricing in the restaurant bar.
Friday, February 24
Spring Fling Wreath & Wine Party at Messina Hof Grapevine Winery
Get ready for a cheery spring season with this wreath-making class paired with wine and charcuterie. Participants can choose from several different themed wreath kits and will be led by an instructor on weaving together a beautiful finished product. The $95 price includes five wine tastings and a charcuterie board. Class will run from 6-8 pm.