Tag: Food

13 Things to Do in DFW Before the Summer Ends

As the summer draws to the close, it can begin to feel like you have done all the things there are to do!  We’ve compiled a list of our favorite summer activities around the area, and hopefully they will help you make it through the final stretch of summer heat.

Sunrise Sunflowers lighten

  1. Berry Picking

Nothing says ‘summer’ like fresh berries.  They’re easy enough to find wherever you get groceries, but there’s something special about picking them yourself.  Fortunately, the entire Metroplex is surrounded by farms dedicated to providing just such an experience. Click here for a list of farms by city.

  1. Museums

Taking your children (or just yourself) to a museum provides many benefits.  You’re generally out of the heat, you’re physically active, and you’re being inspired!  Schools are great, but there’s no substitute for the look in a child’s eyes when their curiosity is sparked.  Treat yourself and the kiddos to these awesome free museums in the area, and watch the magic of learning happen!

  1. Animal Encounters

If you and your children are aching for a more outdoorsy learning activity, the DFW area offers a several venues for interacting with and learning about animals.  For a more common experience, visit either of the acclaimed zoos in Fort Worth or Dallas.  If you’re looking for something more hands-on, try the Dallas World Aquarium (try to go during the week, when it’s less crowded) or Fossil Rim (beware the ostrich).

  1. Six Flags

The dedicated children’s park makes this ideal for outings with kids of all ages.  There are adventures to be had for all, and enough souvenir shops to make the hottest day more bearable.  If you go early, you can hit several rides before it gets too hot. Then you have plenty of time to shop and ride one of their water features! Plan your trip here.

  1. Water park

If the adventure of Six Flags sounds great but you’re looking for something a little more ‘watery’, the Metroplex has an abundance of options for you.  If you’re looking for the big rides, you can go across the street to Hurricane Harbor (protip: if you buy a season pass at Six Flags, Hurricane Harbor is included).  For a list of the top 13 parks, look here.

  1. Ranger’s Game

There’s a special joy that comes from hanging out in the nosebleeds at Globe Life Park.  It’s shaded with the best breeze in the whole stadium, and I love being able to see everything going on from the vantage point.  Our Rangers have had tough few weeks, but it feels like they’re getting their groove back!  There’s no better time to catch a game! Buy tickets here.

  1. Kayak

Something about growing up in North Texas breeds a love for being on the water.  We have plenty of lakes that are great for boats and skiing, but my favorite way to enjoy the water is from a kayak.  Texas State Parks have recently introduced ‘Paddling Trails’ and we have more info here.  If you’re looking for a more urban experience, you can look at Panther Island in Fort Worth or White Rock Lake in Dallas.

  1. Drive-in Movies

Feeling nostalgic?  DFW is home to a growing number of Drive-In theaters!  Most offer new releases with the occasional throwback.  My family loves to pile up our truck with blankets and pillows and head out around 6!  More information on theaters and what they offer here.

  1. Food Trucks

Food truck are one of the best ways to sample the artistic creations of talented chefs, and the best atmosphere to experience them is definitely at a food truck park.  These parks are the best place to meet up with other foodies, and let the kids play while expanding their culinary horizons.

  1. Stargazing

‘The stars at night/Are big and bright’ and this is, indeed, the heart of Texas.  If you and your kids are night owls, this could be one of the more exciting things you do this summer! Whether you drive out to one of the stargazing tours at a state park or visit one of the planetariums in the area, the stars are sure to leave you and your kids in awe. Information on great spots here.

  1. Gardens

If you’re not into picking fruit, you can still enjoy the fruit of the earth at one of these fantastic North Texas gardens!  Fort Worth and Dallas compete for best gardens, so there is plenty to enjoy.  The seasonal flora and fauna are top notch at each of these locations around the Metroplex.

  1. Pokémon Go

Sometimes, we can get too carried away with our devices, but Pokémon Go has done more than its fair share to make our smart phones good for us.  Bring your kids out to one of these great spots or events.  Take some time walking about and enjoying the scenery as your hatch virtual eggs and catch virtual Pokémon.

  1. Library – Dallas, Ft. Worth and Arlington Library events

With all the adventures to be had in the Metroplex, there are a few things that you just can’t do, unless you have a book.  The story times and other events at the Fort Worth, Dallas, and other Metro libraries are sure to awaken the imagination and take your kids on grand adventures (without leaving the a/c!)

 

Until Next Time,

Rebekah

Dog Days of Summer

This week we want to use the blog as an opportunity to bring you into our family.  As a family-owned company, our co-workers always feel like family even when we’re growing and building like there’s no tomorrow.

As the workers at the nearby BBQ joint can testify, food bonds us better than anything else.  As much as we all love BBQ, most would prefer a good pizza.  If either of those aren’t available, some good Tex-Mex is always appreciated.  However, some in our clan have interests in more exotic food such as Pho and Indian food.

If we can’t agree on food, we can all agree on how much we love our pets!  We love all animals large and small, and love owning some of them. Antares is home to both dog and cat lovers.  The most popular breed seems to be Dachshunds and Labrador Retrievers.

SadieMitsy Milo

(Above are Sadie, Mitsy, and Milo)

 

When it comes to our hobbies and passions, the Antares Family begins to differ more.  Some love to run and sing, others love to garden and read.  You’ll find almost any hobby withing the Antares Family, and that ultimately represents the reason we work so well as a team.  We love doing different things, but we all love Antares Homes.

 

Until Next Time,

Rebekah

Best Eats!

This week, we’re featuring 1 or 2 great places to eat near each of our awesome communities!

  1. Fannin Farms – Istanbul Grill

If you’re ever in the neighborhood, Istanbul Grill is THE place for Mediterranean Cuisine!  This family-run diamond in the rough offers Mediterranean favorites like kebobs and gyros.  With a BYOB option, this is a great spot to sit and relax with friends when they have the space! Find them here.

  1. Selection Studio – Savor Coffee Bar and Eatery

If you are visiting our design studio, there is no better place around to gather your thoughts.  Their specialty drinks and delicious food will replenish your spirit while the beautiful atmosphere inspires your mind.  Find them here.

  1. Meadow Creek Estates – Moni’s Pasta & Pizza

Moni learned his trade working at a restaurant in Italia as a younger man.  He has passed on everything he knows to his son, who has owned and operated this particular location for the last 9 years.  Everything about this BYOB Italian restaurant is authentic from the pasta to the delivery!  Find them here.

  1. Settler’s Glen – Catfish Plantation

Don’t let the ghost stories keep you away!  All of the spirits there are friendly, and the delicious catfish is more than worth it!  Located near historic downtown Waxahachie, the Catfish Plantation is the very definition of good food, great service, and a beautiful location.  Find them here.

  1. Settler’s Glen – Lonestar Burger Bar

Texans love our burgers, and Lonestar Burger Bar is the best place to grab one near Settler’s Glen!  Their Black Angus burgers are dressed up with everything from bacon and BBQ sauce to peanut butter.  If it’s too early for a burger, they have great breakfast options!  Find them here.

  1. The Cove at North Grove – The Dove’s Nest

‘It’s Worth Flying South’ according to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, and certainly worth the short drive from The Cove at North Grove.  This charming eatery serves New Southern Cuisine and delicious desserts! Nestled in historic downtown Waxahachie, eating at this acclaimed restaurant is both relaxing and invigorating.  Find them here.

  1. Matador Ranch – Antonio’s Homestyle Cooking

This family-owned Mexican food restaurant works hard to make every customer feel at home.  From made-at-your-table guacamole to fresh flan, it’s hard to find a more authentic Mexican eating experience.   Find them here.

  1. Summer Creek South – Bonnell’s

Dedicated to working with local farmers and right off the Chisholm Trail Toll Road, Bonnell’s is both convenient and delicious.  Opened in 2001 by Chef Bonnell, this restaurant combines Southwestern, Creole and Mexican flavors to create a taste that is authentically Texan.  Find them here.

  1. Summer Creek South – The Woodshed

This delicious smoke house is conveniently located just off of the Trinity Trails and the Chisholm Trail Toll Road.  The ever-changing menu is a thing that must be experienced to believe.  Chef Tim Love loves to bring in creative meats that can be enjoyed indoors or on the patio overlooking the river.  Find them here.

  1. Ashford Park – Bella Vita II Italian Restaurant

The second location for this family-owned Italian restaurant, this is a great option for dinner in the Burleson area.  The service is excellent, and the fresh food is constantly being updated by their innovative chefs.  When you walk through that door, they’ll make you feel like family.  Find them here.

  1. Chisholm Trail Ranch – Press Café

Located at the new trail head, Press Café is easily accessed from the Trinity Trails, and from Chisholm Trail Toll Road.  Whether you bike, run or drive to this fantastic location, you will be treated to some of the best healthy food in the area.  Their modern bar serves alcohol and coffee.  You can’t go wrong relaxing and enjoying the view.  Find them here.

  1. Saginaw Springs – Boo-Ray’s

Cajun food is widely loved, and not always done well.  With Boo-Ray’s zesty recipes and daily fresh fish, they do right by the owner’s Cajun heritage.  Along with authentic flavor, Scott Marks brings the New Orleans atmosphere to Eagle Mountain Lake.  Find them here.

  1. Saginaw Springs – Ginger Brown’s

If you’re looking for something in Saginaw that’s a bit less spicy, Ginger Brown’s is the place for you.  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, Ginger brings delicious, home-style cookin’ to your table.  This laid-back bakery and diner keeps its cinnamon rolls and customers at its center.  Find them here.

 

Until Next Time,

Rebekah