Amarillo magazine - December 2021

The A.R.T.S. of Healing EXPLANATION OF THE TWO SPECIALTIES: Many people sufer from allergies, asthma and a variety of rheumatologic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthritis. These are our specialties at Allergy A.R.T.S., but most people don’t understand the connection between all these conditions.

Many of these conditions are related because they are disorders of the immune system. Your immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs that

Constantine K. Saadeh, MD, MD, FACP, FACR Constantine K. Saadeh,

FAAAAI, FACR

work together to protect you from disease and infection. It helps your body recognize these “foreign” invaders. Then its job is to keep them out, or if it can’t, to find and destroy them.

If your immune system cannot do its job, the results can range from relatively mild to severe and debilitating. Even when occurring at moderate levels, we understand how these conditions can afect your health and well-being.

An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. Its symptoms are usually a reaction to an allergen or irritant.

Dr. Saadeh is board certified and recertified in both allergy/ immunology and rheumatology.

Such continuing commitment to excellence and current best practice is vital in the delivery of up to the moment standards of care. He has additional training in his specialties for both pediatric and geriatric patients. He follows American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and United States Pharmacopeia guidelines in mixing his patients’ allergy serum; all done under the

Nicole Davey-Ranasinghe, D MD, FACR Nicole Davey-Ranasinghe, MD,

FACP, FACR

safety and purity of a laminar venthood.

Rheumatologic conditions are autoimmune diseases which cause your immune system to attack healthy cells in your body by mistake. Autoimmune diseases can afect many parts of the body.

Dr. Nicole Davey-Ranasinghe is a young, progressive face at Allergy A.R.T.S. Her fresh perspective, commitment to the practice of medicine, and twenty-first century approach, are all lending great rheumatology expertise to the lives she serves. She maintains current board certification and recertification as indicated in her specialty of rheumatology.

(806) 353-7000 • AllergyArts.com

Contents

DECEMBER 2021

14

’TIS THE SEASON FOR TAMALES Traditional Mexican fare has deep roots in Texas

Features

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RED KETTLE CHALLENGE Amarillo’s Salvation Army annual holiday campaign begins in both physical and virtual locations

10

A TEXAN SANTA CLAUS Man from Happy creates handmade metal toys for children

18

MAKING MAGIC Maxwell’s Magical Christmas returns for a second year

In every issue

22

LET’S EAT! Restaurant guide

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DECEMBER 2021

806 INC Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings

Editor Kristina Wood Designer Kayla Filion Contributing Writers Brianna Maestas Abigail Walker Michael Cuviello Contributing Photographer Neil Starkey

Regional Advertising Director Shoni Wiseman Account Representatives Angelica de Alba Jaime Pipkin To advertise in Amarillo Magazine or on amarillo.com/amarillo-magazine, contact Shoni Wiseman at 766.8631.

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606 S Tyler St. Suite 2300, Amarillo, TX 79101 806.376.4488 • amarillo.com/amarillo-magazine Amarillo Magazine is a monthly publication of AGN Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent.

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Feature

RED KETTLE

CHALLENGE Amarillo’s Salvation Army annual holiday campaign begins in physical locations and virtually online Brianna Maestas Amarillo Globe-News | USA TODAY NETWORK

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marillo’s Salvation Army is bringing in this holiday season with its recognizable red kettles at locations around town. And, the local chapter has added an online version.

The Salvation Army has introduced the Virtual Red Kettle Challenge to accommodate to people's change from using physical cash to virtual currency.

“Because of COVID-19, we had to come up with a new way of introducing the Red Kettle Campaign, and this is just another way of doing it. With everything being online now, we created a feature to donate online as well as in person,” said Quintin Marquez, public relations manager for the Salvation Army of Amarillo.

“We try to keep with the times. It is 2021, and we want to make sure that we are not the same Salvation Army that we were 50 years ago. We want to have an online presence, and this helps with that,” Marquez said.

According to Major Ernie Hull, the commanding offi cer for the Salvation Army of Amarillo, the group gained approximately $20,000 in virtual donations to the organization's virtual kettle.

The Salvation Army assured the public they would still have their physical kettles, but now there are online accommodations for those who would like to donate but don’t always have cash on them.

“All the locations that we had last year will be present this year, and we even installed new NFC tags and QR codes to each sign. So, even if you can't physically put money in the kettle, you are able to just put your phone up to the sign, and it'll take you to the website to donate,” Marquez said.

Marquez said that the Red Kettle Challenge isn't just for individual donations. It can also be utilized for groups who would like to give to the Salvation Army this holiday season.

ABOVE: Salvation Army’s annual holiday season Red Kettle drive is now underway; LEFT: Aimee Salsedo rings the bell at Hobby Lobby on Bell for the Red Kettle for the Salvation Army’s annual holiday drive. PHOTOS BY NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

DECEMBER 2021 | AMARILLO.COM/AMARILLO-MAGAZINE

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“It could be used for community members to go against each other, like a school against another school, or an organization against another organization, or just friends that want to challenge each other into raising more money for our cause,” Marquez said. “The beauty of it is that it's for as many as you’d like. There’s no certain age limit, or certain number for how many people need to participate.”

According to the organization, most of the year's income comes from red kettles, which pays to run the programs and overnight shelter throughout the year, as well as feeding those in need throughout the city.

“We are an overnight shelter, with other programs to help the homeless community get out of poverty, and the funds that we gain from the Red Kettle Campaign fund our whole year. From these funds, we are able to run these programs and feed everybody,” Marquez said. “No matter how many come in, we feed them, and the money from the Red Kettle Campaign pays for all of that.”

“With this Red Kettle Challenge, we are challenging the public to come to our aid and save Christmas again this year. We are still very much in a pandemic, and we are looking for folks to adopt kettle locations and assure that we have people standing at every location,” Hull said.

Register to Ring – volunteer as a bell ringer

Ernst Moody rings the bell at United at 45th and Bell for the Red Kettle for the Salvation Army’s annual holiday drive. NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS 8

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"While some may think it is still a little early to unpack the holiday decorations, The Salvation Army has been hard at work, planning Christmas programs for several months," a news release says. "Now, as the red kettles are appearing outside stores and Angel Trees are being set up, volunteers are needed to help ensure men, women and children in need throughout our community experience the joys of Christmas."

The Salvation Army is looking for volunteer bell ringers, from Nov. 26 to Dec. 24, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays.

For more than 125 years, The Salvation Army’s red kettles have been a symbol of good will during the holiday season. “Last year, we implemented an online tool for volunteers to sign-up,” Hull said. “We are excited to off er this again for the 2021 season. Visit www.RegisterToRing.com and simply select the location, date and time you would like to ring. You can split a shift with a friend or sign up as a group. Individuals, families, groups of friends or co-workers, and church groups are all welcome!”

In addition, through the generous support of community donors, The Salvation Army will provide gifts for 2,000 children this year, a news release said, and they're looking for Angel Tree volunteers as well.

And for many years, The Salvation Army has served holiday meals to approximately 250 residents. They are seeking approximately 20 volunteers to sign up for two to three hours to help with the Christmas meal.

To volunteer, or for more information, call The Salvation Army at (806) 373-6631.

Individuals can donate to the Salvation Army of Amarillo’s Virtual Red Kettle online, or create their own Red Kettle to challenge for friends to donate on their website at https://www.salvationarmytexas.org/ amarillo/ Those interested in volunteering and donating time in other ways to the Salvation Army of Amarillo can sign up at https://disaster.salvationarmyusa.org/ volunteer/new/ e

Leia Fulcher puts her money in the Red Kettle. NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

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DECEMBER 2021 | AMARILLO.COM/AMARILLO-MAGAZINE

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Feature

THE

Happy

TOY MAKER Texan Santa Claus has been making children smile for 22 years

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DECEMBER 2021

Brianna Maestas Amarillo Globe-News USA TODAY NETWORK

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man from Happy, Texas, does all he can to put smiles on kids' faces, but especially this time of year.

Jerry Sims, owner of The Happy Toy Maker, located at 43600 S. Georgia St. in the town of Happy, creates handmade metal toys for children.

“This was his dream, and I'm glad that it's come true for him,” said Patricia Sims, Jerry Sims' wife, and toy maker.

“He is defi nitely the center of attention for everybody, even when it's not Christmas time. I think all of his friends are around 6 years old. He is everybody's best friend. He will go to his shows, and everybody knows the Happy Toy Maker. Even away from shows, they will recognize him,” Patricia Sims said.

Jerry Sims said he began the toy making business 22 years ago after his sons had wanted a working toy that mimicked what they saw their dad doing. Sims realized that he couldn’t buy something like that in stores, so he decided to create it. He began selling his handmade, functioning creations to the public in 2006.

“We started it 22 years ago when my kids were 2 and 3. The toys, they’re tough, and they’ll last for generations. I think they're very educational for farm and ranch kids,” Jerry Sims said.

“We started selling to the public, and that fi rst year we sold like 47 wheel corrals.

And every year since, it has doubled.

There's about 38 toys on the website now,” he said.

Patricia Sims said she began creating farm animals out of resin to go with her husband's farming equipment about 20 years ago.

“The animals got started because all of his toys are too big for the animals that you could buy in stores, so we made some to fi t his toys,” she said.

She said she has made donkeys, horses, pigs and many other farm animals to match her husband's theme.

Jerry Sims said that over the years, he has realized that the pickup truck has become one of the crowd favorite items for all of its diff erent functioning attachments.

“It has diff erent attachments to it, too. I mean, it has a take box that works so you can put feed in it. It has a set of forks on the back, so you can put something on them, and it picks it up with a spring.

The kids can actually think they're going to feed their animals. You can take off the box and put a toolbox, horse rack, or veterinarian bed, a welding rig, and dog box, ... anything that they might see their parents doing. They can change it and be what they want to be,” he said.

The toy maker said he began creating metal toys because of the medium's durability to withstand time and children. He learned his ability to weld from his father.

“When I was growing up, I built several of my own plows and diff erent things. I like for things to really last, and I know kids are hard on toys and you don’t want to keep replacing them because they're made out of plastic,” Sims said.

“Growing up, my dad, he had a welding shop when we were kids, and we learned how to do all that stuff . And my mind has kind of turned that way. I love building stuff . I love kids. It all turned out pretty cool,” he added.

Over the years, he has been able to touch the lives of many children with his toys and tries to make each experience and toy a lasting one.

Jerry Sims sits with one of the many farm and ranch toys he makes. PHOTOS BY NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

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DECEMBER 2021

ABOVE: Sims demonstrates one of the jigs he built for the purpose of building toys. He built more than 30 presses and jigs to build the toys. LEFT: Toy trucks ready for wheels. PHOTOS BY NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

FAMILY TALK ABOUT DRINKING

STAY T INVOLVED IN THEIR LIVES TO “S PREVENT PR

“

“We made a toy for a little boy that was blind, and we punched it with a center punch from the inside and spelled his name in Braille, so that he could feel his name on the semi-truck and the trailer,” Jerry Sims said.

“The kids can get rough with them if they want to and know that they're not going to tear it up. ... And it doesn’t (matter) their age, from little bitty until they get too old, they all seem like they enjoy watching them and playing with them,” he said.

The Happy Toy Maker is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Individuals can also visit the shop online at https://thehappytoymaker.com. e

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Cover story

Traditional Mexican fare has deep roots in Texas Abigail Walker Amarillo Globe-News | USA TODAY NETWORK

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DECEMBER 2021

Finished tamales ERIN BORMETT/ARGUS LEADER

R

ows of corn husk are lined up on the table as Monica Vasquez, an employee at The Tamale Lady in Wolff orth, Texas, scoops masa and spreads it onto the leaves. Vasquez has worked at The Tamale Lady for a year and her primary job is constructing tamales. Once the masa is on every corn husk, she then takes the tamale fi lling and layers it on top of the masa. Making sure to leave enough masa exposed on the edges so when she wraps the tamale the fi lling will be centered. This time she is making chipotle chicken tamales.

As she rolls the tamales and wraps them in foil before eventually cooking them, Vasquez reminisces her time pre-COVID when her family would get together and make the dish before Christmas Eve. A common tradition for the Latin American community, which has now been adopted by many Texans. “We’d all get together, a bunch of relatives, sit around a big table and we’ll just roll tamales and talk about old stories or tell new memories,” Vasquez said.

The chipotle chicken tamales that she is making is a recipe created by The Tamale Lady owner and chef, Jon Walter. Walter said before opening the restaurant he asked his grandmother to teach him how to make the dish. He then started selling his tamales at the Wolff orth farmers market and once the building he currently operates out of became available for rent, he opened The Tamale Lady.

Walter said The Tamale Lady accepts pre-orders for tamales around the holiday season for customers that want to enjoy the dish.

“It’s something people can share, families can share that,” Walter said, “it’s a tradition within Mexican, Latin and Hispanic culture and we like to share that culture.”

Tamales have been a part of the Latin American culture for thousands of years.

Britannica reports that human artifacts have dated early settlers in Mexico to approximately 9000 B.C. where the inhabitants were hunters of large herd animals such as mammoths. Around approximately 7,500 B.C., following the glacial retreat of the last Wisconsin substage, inhabitants were forced to turn away from big-game hunting to smaller prey, and gathering. The origin of the tamale has also been traced to around this time period.

DECEMBER 2021 | AMARILLO.COM/AMARILLO-MAGAZINE

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Steam rises from cooked tamales as they are placed on a table to cool in the kitchen.

PHOTOS BY BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN

Historians have a hard time agreeing on the exact time period tamales were invented, but it’s estimated the food fi rst appeared anywhere from 8000 B.C. to 5000 B.C. in Mesoamerica. The word tamale originates from the Nahuatle word ‘tamal’, one of the Aztec’s primary languages. Back then, modern day corn as we know it had not been developed. Early civilizations used corns ancestor, teocintle, as the basis for tamales.

Tamales also had religious signifi cance in Mesoamerican cultures.

Miguel Levario, associate professor of U.S. History at Texas Tech specializing in U.S.-Mexico Borderlands, said this is because corn is a vital and staple crop among the indigenous people of Mexico.

“It represents a lot, it’s their main crop, but it also represented a lot of spiritual value,” Levario said, “some of the indigenous groups believe that humans came from corn. So, corn is very much a vital piece of indigenous culture in Mexico and in the pre-columbian period.” Research shows maize played a vital role in the lives of Mesoamericans starting from when they were born and the umbilical cord was cut over a maize cob, up until death when maize dough was put into the mouth of the deceased. The Aztecs would serve tamales as an off ering to their respective deities, as well as the Mayans, Olmecs and Toltecs.

Each god had a diff erent type of tamale made for them as well. In post-Colonial modern history, 16

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the tamale has been adopted by Christian and Catholic faiths.

“When the Europeans came, Cortes was greeted with tamales, so it was a food that was there before, and they were exposed to it when they came to the America’s.” Levario said. One theory for why tamales are associated with Christmas is that because Mesoamerican’s prepared tamales for special occasions, Catholics and Christians did as well. Tamales can be seen as a symbol of the Virgin Mary carrying baby Jesus inside her. Levario also said that one of the values of the tradition, is that because it’s so labor intensive, the process of making tamales generally involves multiple people. Families get together during the holiday season and on Christmas Eve, will start making tamales early in the morning throughout the evening. In Mexican culture this kind of gathering is called a tamalada, or tamalemaking party. “It’s one of the biggest benefi ts of this tradition,” Levario said, “that idea of family togetherness is very much prevalent and very much innate in this whole process of making tamales.”

Eating tamales on Christmas Eve has extended from Latin American culture to the homes of many Texans. Owner of Pedro’s Tamales in Lubbock, Bryan Radney, said that it’s no surprise that many Texans have started participating in the tradition.

“With the Hispanic infl uence in Texas it’s naturally going to integrate, and other people are going to pick up on it.” Radney said. |

DECEMBER 2021

“

That idea of family togetherness is very much prevalent and very much innate in this whole process of making tamales.”

But for those that want to enjoy the dish during the holiday season that may not know how to make them, or don’t have a recipe passed down through generations, orders can be placed at local tamalerias.

Popular tamale shops like the beforementioned, Pedro’s Tamales and The Tamale Lady are some of those places. Pete Hale, founder of Pedro’s Tamales, started making tamales in 1977 with his wife Sally Hale and sold them out of an auto parts store they owned. In 1981 they offi cially opened Pedro’s Tamales for business. The tamales became so popular that in 1993, Governor of Texas John T. Montford named Pedro’s Tamales the Offi cial Tamale of Texas.

Radney, purchased the business in 2016 from Pete and Sally’s children, and like many families passing down a recipe from generation to generation, Radney said the tamales at Pedro’s Tamales are still made using Pete’s recipe.

“When I bought it, we hired the plant manager that worked with Pete for 27 years and we hired him to come in and get the recipes back to the originals.” Radney said.

Some families will not only share tamales among their family members, but friends as well. Levario recounts how his grandmother would not only make enough tamales for his family to eat through January, but sometimes for family friends as well.

“If she made them for other people it was as a gift, maybe my mom would say ‘hey can we give a dozen to so-and-so,’” Levario said, “but it was usually for our family.

So, if you celebrate the holiday seasons with the dish whether you make them with your family like Vasquez and Levario, or order them from places like The Tamale Lady and Pedro’s Tamales, try to take some time to appreciate not only their taste, but their historical and religious signifi cance in Latin American cultures.

Feature

Maxwell’s Pumpkin Farm will have two trees including a beautifully decorated 30 footer and a 50-foot LED tree. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL CUVIELLO/AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

MAKING

magic MAXWELL’S MAGICAL CHRISTMAS RETURNS FOR A SECOND YEAR Michael Cuviello Amarillo Globe-News | USA TODAY NETWORK

Maxwell’s Magical Christmas is celebrating a second straight holiday season, with down-home fun for the entire family.

Larry Borger, the owner of Maxwell’s Pumpkin Farm, has had his crew working long hours to transform his farm from its annual Fall Festival into a winter wonderland celebrating the Christmas season. He has more than 20 attractions with festive lights all over his acreage. He promises a special daily appearance from the holiday’s biggest celebrity, Santa Claus, who will be there every day until Dec. 23.

Borger said that he had planned to expand to a Christmas event over the past fi ve years and fi nally made his dream come to fruition last holiday season, when more than 20,000 visited his farm for his Christmas Celebration.

He has made his farm a cavalcade of holiday lights, including a 50-foottall pixel holiday tree with more than 20,000 individual lights that create various holiday designs. This year, the event features a hayride that takes patrons through a 128-foot light tunnel with more than 57,000 colorful lights to dazzle the senses.

Guests will also have a walking trail of lights to explore, along with a giant, 16-foot lighted Christmas ornament to walk through, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

“I have always been a huge fan of the lights on display for Christmas and truly wanted to share my vision with everyone; this gives me that opportunity for all to enjoy,” Borger said.

DECEMBER 2021 | AMARILLO.COM/AMARILLO-MAGAZINE

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2021 Dates and Hours for Maxwell’s Magical Christmas Friday-Sunday, Dec. 3-12 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Daily, Dec. 17-30 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Closed Dec. 24-25

Ahead of November’s opening, he said the farm would feature some special items for the holiday, such as the ultimate festive funnel cake with whipped cream topped with red and green sprinkles. This treat matches perfectly with the available holiday hot chocolate with the same toppings to warm the insides on chilly days.

With the winter months in full swing, the farm will have nine diff erent fi re pits available for guests to warm up with, and complete s’mores kits will be available for families to create their favorite fi reside treats.

“There are so many cool and fun photo-ops for families with all the lights and decorations to share their holiday memories,” Borger said. “We have Santa available to visit with and take pictures after 6 p.m.; the great thing for families is there is no extra charge to take these pictures. We will have areas all over the farm that will make great holiday pictures.”

Santa will come in each day with a grand entrance delivered by tractor to the building right beside the new mercantile shop, which has been readily stocked with new Christmas items for the whole family.

Borger said that one signifi cant change to his event was expanding the celebration beyond Christmas. The Magical Christmas now will run through Dec. 30, after closing for Christmas and Christmas Eve. “I think that our farm provides a wholesome familyfriendly outdoor experience that will off er some really unique Christmas sights and experiences,” Borger said.

For more information, visit maxwellspumpkinfarm.com. e 20

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Let’s Eat!

COUNTING HIS

BLESSINGS DANIEL’S DRIVE IN IS BACK, AND NEVER LEFT

D

espite online rumors, Daniel’s Drive In is open for business.

During the second and third week of October, on both Facebook and Google, the burger business was said to be permanently closed, but owner Gary Daniel assures the community that it is still open.

“During those fi rst days (listed as “permanently closed” online), I was just standing around, like what’s happening? Is it time for me to retire? Then when I found out and got it changed that evening. I would say still for a couple of days, ... I have normal window traffi c and drive up, but even now the phone probably hasn’t rung half a dozen times a day,” Daniel said.

The drive-in, located at the corner of North Highland Street and Amarillo Boulevard, has been in business for 40 years as of this past Memorial Day. Daniel took over the establishment after his father and the original owner, Bob Daniel, retired in November 1989.

“I’ve been here 32 years. My dad started this. He bought it late or early April in ’80, and it was open Memorial Day of ‘81,” Gary Daniel said.

Since then, Daniel has maintained the establishment with his father’s words in mind.

“My dad, he told me, he said do it this way, ... there’s a hundred ways to do it, but in every burger, if you’ll make it the best burger you can make, as fast as you can make it, for as cheap as you can make it, then that person will come back,” Daniel said.

The menu isn’t quite the same as it originally was, due to supply shortages and convenience of items. Daniel has had to remove some staple items such as his steak fi ngers and chicken strips basket, but the good old-fashioned burgers are still as good as ever.

“My favorite is defi nitely got to be the old-fashioned burgers,” said LaDonna Daniel, wife of owner Gary Daniel.

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Daniel’s Drive In 2911 E. Amarillo Blvd.

Hours: Monday-Thursday, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The establishment has both a drive-up and walk-up window.

Daniel accepts drive-up, walk-up and call-in orders, and the establishment is cash only.

Daniel’s Drive In has been serving burgers and more for 40 years at the corner of North Highland Street and Amarillo Boulevard; ABOVE, LEFT: Gary Daniel, owner of Daniel’s Drive In. PHOTOS BY NEIL STARKEY/FOR THE AMARILLO GLOBE-NEWS

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According to LaDonna Daniel, it was through his good food and warm heart that the couple had met in 2003, and they have seen many lives impacted since.

Daniel makes it a point to interact and serve every individual who comes across his property. And for those in need or with no money, he will serve two grilled cheese sandwiches and the leftover tots or fries he has for the day.

“You know, where we’re at, you see a lot of homeless people, and some people have nothing but a paralyzing addiction ... and some people have told me to stop that, I shouldn’t do this, but it doesn’t matter to me. It’s not my duty to ask why you don’t have any money. All I know is that you don’t, so I say, okay, I’ll fi x you something,” Daniel said.

LaDonna Daniel said that almost every day Gary Daniel comes home with a story about a person that he has met that day or a revisiting face.

“I’ve watched through the years how he will treat the homeless people with great dignity and respect, and he’s always there with a grilled cheese sandwich, and a cup of water. No one goes hungry.

He witnesses to them, and tells them that God loves them. Some of these people will go away for 10 years and get all cleaned up and get their lives together and then come back, and they thank him for treating them normal,” Ladonna Daniel said.

“This has happened so many times I couldn’t even tell you, more than a dozen, ... at least 20 times over the years, that people come back with so much gratitude, and it’s a crying experience. Everyone involved is crying happy tears,” she said.

Gary Daniel said that his favorite part are the encounters that he has had while running the drive-in and seeing those he has met grow.

“A lot of customers that I’ve watched since they were little, and seen them grow up, go through school, get married, and now they’re bringing their little ones up here, so I’ve gotten to see that full circle,” he said.

“I don’t have many regrets, but one regret that I have is that I didn’t start a ledger 32 years ago when I started this place. I’ve had 1,000 plus 1,000 very interesting encounters, from deep emotional connections with people, to violent and angry, and everything inbetween ... I’m not doing this because it made me rich. I’ve got a few dollars, but I’ve got a lot of blessings,” he said. e

Let’s Eat! THE LET’S EAT! GUIDE IS A READER SERVICE COMPILED BY THE AMARILLO MAGAZINE EDITORIAL STAFF. THE MAGAZINE DOES NOT ACCEPT ADVERTISING OR OTHER COMPENSATION IN EXCHANGE FOR A LISTING. THE GUIDE IS UPDATED REGULARLY.

PRICING GUIDE $ most entrees less than $10 $$ most entrees $11 to $20 $$$ most entrees more than $21

The Let’s Eat! guide is a reader service compiled by the Amarillo Magazine Editorial Staff. The magazine does not accept advertising or other compensation in exchange for a listing. The guide is updated regularly.

Amarillo La Fiesta Grande

Authentic taste and a lively atmosphere make La Fiesta a great place to take the whole family. From nachos to barbacoa, there’s something for every taste. 2200 Ross St., 374.3689/7415 SW 45th Ave., 352.1330, fiestagrande.com $$

La Frontera

La Frontera has served the Amarillo community for more than 30 years, offering the true taste of authentic, traditional Mexican food. With a cozy atmosphere, great service, friendly staff and delicious food, what else could you ask for? 1401 S. Arthur St., 372.4593 $

La Fuente Torteria

Served on fresh bolillo bread, La Fuente’s hearty tortas are filled with everything you might expect to find in a burrito. Choose from ham and cheese, pork shoulder, sausage and asada beef. You’ll also find traditional tacos, burritos, tamales, and menudo (only on weekends). 511 S. Grand St., 444.6761 $

Landshark Burgers

The abbreviated menu at Landshark is designed for takeout only. Customize a fresh-made burger or fill up on hot sandwiches, a corn dog or fish and chips. 1505 E. FM 1151, 335.5644 $

La Pasadita

Locals love the barbacoa, handmade flautas, menudo, and burritos at this small walk-up eatery. 2730 NE 16th Ave., 381.2309 $

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Las Parrilladas Norteñas

With cuisine typical of northern Mexico, Las Parrilladas Norteñas features parrilladas, mixed grill items designed to feed more than one person. Grill plates come with chicken, beef and pork. Or feast on the parillada de mariscos, a plate brimming with shrimp, crab legs, oysters, lobster, tilapia, and ceviche, which feeds four people. Customers love the buffet with traditional Mexican entrees and sides. 1706 Amarillo Blvd. East, 418.8321 $$

Lazy Gator

Get your Cajun fix at The Lazy Gator. The menu is brimming with pasta, seafood, fresh oysters, frog legs, burgers, po’ boys, and plenty of drink specials to wash it all down. We’re ready to tackle the peel-andeat shrimp and creamy creole alfredo. 6103 Hillside Road, Suite 200, 418.6768 $$

Lemongrass Sushi & Wok

The thought of fried spring rolls, steamed gyoza and tempura shrimp is enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble, but the food at Lemongrass can easily halt that hunger. Chef Lee Doan offers Asian specialty dishes straight from the wok such as stir-fried udon noodles and Mongolian beef. The enticing sushi menu is ample.

Keep water within arm’s reach when sampling the Red Hot Cajun or the Flying Dragon. 2207 S. Western St., Suite 800, 352.5535 $

Logan’s Roadhouse

Visit Logan’s Roadhouse for everything from quick lunches, take-out options and party platters to mouth-watering, handcut steaks and a variety of entrees for health-conscious diners. Everything’s made with the freshest ingredients and served in a casual, upbeat atmosphere.

8310 I-40 West, 467.8015, logansroadhouse.com $$

Lone Star Bar & Grill

Visit Lone Star Bar & Grill for classic, American grill-style food including savory steaks, burgers, chicken sandwiches and more, all at an affordable price. You’ll also enjoy down-home, friendly service. Lone Star’s guarantee: no hot beer and no small steaks. 935 E. FM 1151, 622.9827 $$

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LongHorn Steakhouse

Stand-outs on LongHorn’s extensive menu include Grilled White Cheddar Stuffed Mushrooms, the hearty LongHorn Gourmet burger, a variety of steaks, and the lighter Spinach Feta Chicken. Choose a side with every meal, and finish with the towering Mountain Top Cheesecake. 8200 I40 West, 358.0640, longhornsteakhouse.com $$

Los Braceros Mexican Grill

For more than 11 years, Braceros has provided hungry patrons with delicious meals and great, traditional Mexican food. The nachos con carne appetizer and a michelada are a must. If you have big eaters to feed, try the parrillada. 3303 Bell St., 355.0889 $$

The Lost Cajun

You’ll find southern-style comfort food at The Lost Cajun. Enjoy the open kitchen as you dine on New Orleans favorites like fried catfish, oysters, gumbo, po-boys and beignets. 2401 I-40 West, 576.0019, thelostcajun.com $$

Lupita’s

Lupita’s comes from a long line of restaurants in Amarillo, all springing from the original Tortilleria Lupita. Find fresh fare, such as chile rellenos or a green chile Puerco torta, a basket brimming with pork, lettuce, tomato, onion and avocado. 4013 SE 10th Ave., 372.3537/3221 S. Western St., 350.7638/2403 Hardin Drive, 350.7637/3309 Bell St., 350.7297 $

Ly’s Cafe ----- Google says permanently closed

If you’ve never tried Laotian food, head over Ly’s Cafe and fill up on authentic, fresh and delicious food. Handmade sausage, beef jerky, duck – add the essential sticky rice and a hot tea for a classic meal.

The friendly staff will help you choose from the ample menu if you’re stumped. 5615 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.1569 $

Macaroni Joe’s

Macaroni Joe’s isn’t just a place to eat a great meal. The Tuscan-inspired rooms are the perfect place for creating memories.

Whether for a first date, the start of a new life together, or celebrating important

milestones, the restaurant offers excellent service and an exquisite food and wine menu. It’s at the top of our list. 1619 S. Kentucky St., Suite D1500, 358.8990, macaronijoes.com $$-$$$

Malcolm’s Ice Cream & Food Temptations

Malcolm’s offers the ultimate in classic soda-fountain food: burgers, sandwiches and salads – everything’s good. Be sure you save room for dessert. Better yet, start with a treat. After all, it’s the most important part of the meal at Malcolm’s.

2100 Paramount Blvd., 355.3892 $

Marhaba Eritrean and Ethiopian Cuisine

Serving East African food, Marhaba also has a small food market. Menu items are served on injera, a spongy flatbread. The injera is topped with meat and side orders and designed for sharing. Breakfast is served until 12 p.m., with lunch and dinner service also available. 2522 Paramount Blvd., 367.6077, marhabararestaurant.wordpress.com $

Maria’s Cocina Mexicana

Find all your favorite Mexican dishes at Maria’s. We’re taken with the fresh tamales, but there’s plenty to choose from.

In-the-know diners eat at Maria’s for the menudo, chile verde, and traditional enchiladas. 1316 SE 10th Ave., 373.8841 $

The Mason Jar

Settled inside Evole by Moonwater on Sixth Street, The Mason Jar offers layered salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps, and charcuterie and dessert boards. 3313 SW Sixth Ave., 699.1040, 236.1799 $

McAlister’s Deli

McAlister’s is not just another deli. Its made-to-order menu is chock full of fresh sandwich and salad options that make for a quick and tasty lunch. And let’s not forget the Famous Sweet Tea that is handcrafted in-house daily. 8605 SW 34th Ave. 355.7500/4104 I-40 West, 352.3354, mcalistersdeli.com $

Meme’s D.O.C. Café

Locals rave about Meme’s home-style food, which includes Texas favorites like chicken-fried steak, catfish, burgers, calf fries, and hearty breakfast items. Check the eatery’s Facebook page for daily lunch specials for dine-in or take-out. 3700 SW Sixth Ave., 322.1402 $

Metropolitan-A Speakeasy

Start your day with a coffee and pastry at Metropolitan. If a midday lunch with colleagues is in order, impress them with Metropolitan’s twist on classic favorites like a BLT. Or celebrate the end of a productive workday with a classy cocktail, savory small plate, or scrumptious homemade dessert. The menu changes frequently so check the club’s Facebook page for updates and special menu offerings.

9181 Town Square Blvd., Suite 1201, 242.0117, metroofamarillo.com $$

Mexico Lindo Restaurant

Mexico Lindo has a friendly staff that delivers excellent service with a smile. The appetizing food comes at reasonable prices and the restaurant offers several popular items such as the gordita plate, crispy rellenos and enchiladas. 4515 S. Georgia St., 355.1851 $

Mimi’s Restaurant

Authentic Mexican food – not Tex-Mex – is what you’ll find when you dine at Mimi’s Restaurant. Ignore the humble building – this place is a hidden gem. Mimi’s serves up fresh, affordable dishes like huevos rancheros, barbacoa and horchatas. 1400 Ross St., 373.3484 $

Moe Dogs Grill

Memories of Route 66 come alive at Moe Dogs Grill. What once served as a gas station now offers hot dogs, burgers and other Americana classics. Decorated with memorabilia yet updated with flat screen TVs, Moe Dogs patrons have the opportunity to earn a free meal – that is if they can down eight jumbo hotdogs piled with chili, cheese and jalapeños within 30 minutes.

And yes, there are fries with that. 3515 SW Sixth Ave., 220.2198 $

Mr. Fish - permanently closed; owner died

Another quirky dive has popped up on Sixth Street. The former owner of nowclosed Pattaya Restaurant takes another approach with a small fish-and-chips joint.

A rotating menu of Asian specialties, including sushi, will supplement the affordable fish and fries offerings. 2806 SW Sixth Ave., 803.9434 $

Mr. Gatti’s Pizza

Food galore is what you’ll find at Gatti’s, with unlimited pizza, pasta, salad bar and desserts. You won’t have to tell the kids twice to finish their meal because once they do, they can head to Gatti Town and feed their fun. 4412 S. Western St., 355.5601, mrgattispizza.com $

Mulligans Sports Pub

Chase away the munchies with Mulligans’ new menu, served daily until 1:30 a.m.

Share a round of appetizers or fill up on entrees from the grill. The Fast Break Philly, Quarterback Quesadillas, or Fast Break French Dip will surely leave you satisfied while you cheer on your favorite team.

2511 Paramount Blvd., Suite B1, 367.8428, mulligansamarillo.com $

My Thai

It’s hard to find authentic Thai cuisine that compares to My Thai. We recommend the angel noodle with sauteed tomatoes and mushrooms for a tasty alternative to fried rice. 2029 Coulter St., 355.9541, mythaiamarillo.com $

Napoli’s Fine Italian Restaurant

Napoli’s has created an oasis in downtown Amarillo. Indulge yourself with the housebaked bread while you browse the ample menu. Try the hearty lasagna or one of the over-sized calzones while enjoying live music on the spacious patio. 700 S. Taylor St., 220.2588, napolisofamarillo.com $$

North Heights Discount & Cafe

Part convenience store and part neighborhood eatery, North Heights Discount & Cafe serves made-to-order soul food every day but Sunday. Portions are huge at Discount, but can you ever have too much smoky ribs, fried catfish, french fries, or mac-and-cheese? We don’t think so. 1621 NW 18th Ave., 418.6751 $

OHMS Cafe & Bar

Set in downtown Amarillo, OHMS serves a buffet-style lunch then switches to wait service in the evenings. The chef features specials each week that range from seafood and smoked duck to beef tenderloin.

Start with daily Happy Hour and give the Bar Burger a try. (It’s not on the menu, but it might be the best burger in town.) Excellent cuisine and service make this a delightful place to linger. 619 S. Tyler St., 373.3233, ohmscafe.com $$-$$$

Olive Garden Italian Kitchen

Olive Garden will tell you, “When you’re here, you’re family,” and that’s the truth.

The portions couldn’t be more generous.

With endless salad and breadsticks, no matter the entree, you’ll leave satisfied.

4121 I-40 West, 355.9973, olivegarden.com $$

Outback Steakhouse

Let’s just start with the Bloomin’ Onion. We

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could actually end there and be completely satisfied, but what’s a trip to Outback without a Victoria’s Filet Mignon and Bacon Bourbon Salmon? Speaking of completely satisfied, leave room for the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under. 7101 I-40 West, 352.4032, outback.com $$

Pacific Rim

Pacific Rim offers a variety of Asian-Fusion cuisine in a unique setting. One of the best things about this place is the greeting you’ll get from Andy, the owner. But let’s talk food. The lettuce wraps are outstanding. In fact, everything is good. Pacific Rim even offers speedy delivery. 2061 Paramount Blvd., 353.9179, pacificrimam.com $

Palio’s Pizza Cafe

Palio’s has all your Italian food cravings covered. From generous subs and pasta dishes to freshmade pizza, the cafe promises “real” food with made-from-scratch dough, fresh produce and allnatural ingredients. There are even gluten-free options for celiac sufferers. 3562 S. Soncy Road, Suite 301, 398.7256, paliospizzacafe.com $$

Pancho Villa Restaurant

This unassuming little eatery might not capture one’s attention, but it’s worth a visit to Pancho’s. The casual restaurant caters to Mexican and Tex-Mex enthusiasts with authentic offerings like caldo de res (beef soup). 4601 River Road, 381.0105 $

Pan-Handlers Cafe

Kick your lunch experience up a notch at Pan-Handlers. Settled in the basement of Amarillo National Bank Plaza One, this family-run restaurant supports the community by using farm-fresh produce. With a list of daily specials ranging from Mexican to seafood and cleverly concocted sandwiches (try the ANBLT on ciabatta bread), your dining experience will be anything but bland and boring. 410 S. Taylor St., 352.2590, thepan-handlers.com $

Pescaraz Italian Restaurant

Come ready to linger when you visit Pescaraz. From the charming decor and cozy bar area to the array of entrees, soups, salads and impressive wine list, you’ll want to take time to savor every bite. Enjoy excellent service and live music in the evenings.

3415-K Bell St., 350.5430, pescaraz.com $$

Pho 84

Serving traditional Vietnamese food, Pho

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84 offers spring rolls, dumplings, and a variety of Asian fusion cuisine. Expect quality food and service when you visit the small, cozy eatery. 5713 SW 34th Ave., 437.1626 $

Pizza Planet

For dine-in or takeout, Pizza Planet offers some of the best pizza in town. If you like a good chef salad, this is your place. Be prepared to share – it’s huge. 2400 Paramount Blvd., 353.6666/6801 Bell St., Suite 100, 352.6666, pizzaplanet.com/335 E. Hastings Ave., 381.2333, amarillopizzaplanet.com $$

Pizzeria Nomad

The beloved food truck now has a brickand-mortar location, where it will serve an expanded menu. Convenient call-in and online ordering ensures that your cravings will be quickly satisfied. 2648 SW 34th Ave., 477.2660, pizzanomad.co $$

The Plaza Restaurant & Bar

A long-time Amarillo favorite, the many loyal customers of the Plaza attest to the great food and affordable prices. Eat your fill of fresh chips and hot sauce and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for a family night out, the menu offers enough variety to suit the pickiest eaters. 2101 S. Soncy Road., 358.4897, theplazaarestaurant.com $

Polk St. Eats

ing nightly specials. 3333 S. Coulter St., 398.7777, publichouseamarillo.com $$

Rain Premier Sushi Bar & Lounge

Rain lights up Polk Street with its sleek, energetic ambience and exceptional menu of contemporary Asian cuisine. Grab the gang for an evening of flavor and fun. 817 S. Polk St., 331.1155, rainamarillo.com $$

Rancho Viejo Restaurant

Breakfast is served all day at Rancho Viejo, and with free coffee. Choose from plenty of Tex-Mex entrees priced under $10. 1915 I-40 East, 517.2170, ranchoviejoamarillo.com $

Red Lobster

Seafood is a real treat in the Texas Panhandle, and Red Lobster is an old stand-by when you have a hankering for shrimp. Our favorite? The scampi swimming in delicious garlic butter complemented by tasty garlic cheese biscuits. 3311 I-40 West, 353.9596, redlobster.com $$

Red River Steakhouse

Experience the flavor of Texas at Red River Steakhouse. With plenty of beef on the menu – customer favorites are the prime rib, barbecue ribs, and hand-cut steaks – and rustic windmill-themed decor, the well-known steakhouse promises quality and quantity in every meal. 4332 SW 45th Ave., 367.9732, redriversteakhouse.net $$

Polk St. Eats offers a simple menu that includes burgers, “not a burger” sandwiches, salads, appetizers and fries. You may be tempted to forgo a burger and give the Ripper, a quarterpound, deepfried hot dog, a shot. Enjoy Happy Hour daily from 4 to 7 p.m., and all day on Saturdays. 614 S. Polk St., 376.4700, polkstreeteats.com $$

Red Robin

The Potato Factory

RibCrib BBQ & Grill

Come hungry to The Potato Factory, where you can fill up fast on huge baked potatoes loaded with a variety of toppings, from veggies to chili. The restaurant also has some of the best chili dogs and Frito pie in town. 4631 S. Western St., 463.7783, thepotatofactory.net $

Public House

You’ll want to take your time to enjoy the ambience and upscale Southern comfort food at Public House. Savor the house favorite, a generous portion of meatloaf comprised of ground duck, pork and beef with mashed potatoes, a house-made pimiento grilled cheese sandwich, or entic|

DECEMBER 2021

We recommend one hand for a gourmet burger and the other for the bottomless fries and onion rings. (And plenty of napkins.) You’ll leave happy if you finish with a raspberry shake. It’s creamy goodness. If your family needs room to spread out, Red Robin is perfect for large gatherings. 8720 I-40 West, 322.7970, redrobin.com $$ RibCrib has your hankering for smoky barbecue covered. Choose from chicken, pork and beef on the Crib’s extensive menu, with a variety of sauces as well. Visit early for Happy Hour and stay to enjoy the Pigman, a half-pound sandwich heaped with slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork and sausage, then covered in sauce, pickles and onions. Quench your thirst with a glass of refreshing lemonade. 5050 S. Coulter St., 803.9360, ribcrib.com $$

Rise ‘N’ Shine Donuts

In addition to its glazed, cake or filled doughnuts and fresh pastries, start the

day off right at Rise ‘N’ Shine Donuts with a savory kolache or croissant breakfast sandwich. 3605 SW 45th Ave., 398.9622/ 5901 S. Coulter St., 437.1511 $

Robinson’s BBQ Robinson’s has mastered the art of barbecue. Especially with its chopped beef sandwiches. But don’t limit yourself to just a sandwich; try the tasty Frito pie. If you’re in time for breakfast, grab an excellent breakfast burrito. 5920 Hillside Road, 358.2194 $

Rocket Brews Think of Rocket Brews as snack central; you’ll find everything from cucumber micheladas to shredded beef jerky and custom snack trays. A bevy of colors and flavors make a return visit a must. 1506 Amarillo Blvd. East, 350.7830 $

Roosters Restaurant and Catering Roosters offers more than just a good cup of Joe. Stop in and plan on staying for a hot breakfast pastry or one of the delicious lunch specialties. It’s the perfect place to relax with friends for lunch. 3440 S. Bell St., Unit 110, 353.7309, silverfork.com $

Rosa’s Café & Tortilla Factory Perfect for take-out or a quick, satisfying meal, Rosa’s offers Tex-Mex favorites and a fun, upbeat atmosphere. You can’t beat the homemade tortillas, made fresh every day. 4312 SW 45th Ave., 351.1194/3820 I-40 West, 352.8227/6007 S. Soncy Road, 803.9145, rosascafe.com $

Rudy’s Texas Bar-B-Q Rudy’s serves up the same original recipes they’ve used since 1989: brisket, ribs, turkey, pork loin and sausage slow-smoked over an oak fire, seasoned with a secret dry-spice blend and topped with “Sause.”

Plenty of sides and delicious desserts ensure you’ll need lots of napkins. 3751 I-40 West, 677.7452, rudysbbq.com $$

The Ruffled Cup Kitchen This beloved bakery has moved and expanded, with a lunch menu that is served daily from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Feast on a variety of hot and cold sandwiches – all on freshbaked bread – soups and salads. To-go orders are also available. 3440 S. Bell St., Suite 100, 318.3961, theruffledcup.com $$

S&J Coffee House - says temporarily closed

New in downtown Amarillo inside the FBSW tower, S&J Coffee House offers its signature dark roast coffee along with breakfast items and a full lunch menu. 600 S. Tyler St., 513.0927, sandjcoffeehouse.com $

Saigon Restaurant If you’re in the mood for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, this is the place to dine.

Even the pickiest eater can find something they like at Saigon. The extensive menu, which consists of traditional Vietnamese favorites such as pho, spring rolls and Korean barbecue ribs, is veganfriendly, too. 2909 I-40 West, 373.3456 $

Sakura Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Choose from an extensive sushi menu that includes nigiri style, cut rolls, special rolls, spicy rolls, sushi salads, and for the beef lover, Texas sushi. At Sakura, get ready to be entertained by chefs who prepare your meal at the table. We wholeheartedly recommend the swordfish. 4000 S. Soncy Road, 358.8148, amarillosushi.com $$

Saltgrass Steak House Saltgrass has plenty of steaks to choose

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from and you can pair it with juicy Gulf shrimp or lump crab meat. Take our advice: Save room for the Two-Fork Cheesecake.

Rich and creamy, it melts in your mouth.

8300 I-40 West, 351.0349, saltgrass.com $$

Sapito’s Mexican Grill & Cantina

Offering daily specials, Sapito’s serves classic Mexican food with a Texas twist.

Dine in or carry out for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. 801 SW Sixth Ave., 367.6242 $

Scott’s Oyster Bar

If you are a fresh oyster connoisseur, Scott’s is the place for you. Even though it’s a little on the small side, the quick service and excellent seafood make it one of our favorite places to hang out. 4150 Paramount Blvd., 354.9110 $$

Scratch Made Bakery & Cafe

Conveniently located in downtown Amarillo, Scratch Made has the solution for your sugar cravings. This small bakery features cupcakes, along with a variety of fromscratch cookies, pastries, pies and cakes.

Feast on some of the best biscuits and gravy in town during the weekday and Saturday brunch, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

118 SW Sixth Ave., 731.4477, scratchmadebakery.com $

Sharky’s Burrito Company

Think of Sharky’s as a burrito assembly line, a place where you call the shots and load a tortilla (flavored or not) with all your favorite toppings. Start with the meat and work your way through a plethora of options including beans, rice, veggies and cheese. The endless combinations will keep you going back for more. 1612 S. Georgia St., 359.7330 $

Shi Lee’s Barbecue & Soul Food Cafe

You’ll find classic barbecue along with fried chicken wings, catfish, pork chops and a featured soul food meal of the day at Shi Lee’s. Meat lovers can feast on platters piled high with ribs, sausage and brisket, with plenty of sides to fill up even the hungriest diner. 1213 SW Third Ave., 220.0032 $

Sinaloa Hot Dogs and Mexican Food

The hot dogs Mexicanos are the star of the menu at Sinaloa (although the roasted chicken is pretty tantalizing, as well). The extra messy hot dog, topped with bacon, avocado, onions, mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup comes on a toasted bun. We recommend extra napkins. 2618 Amarillo Blvd.

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East, 367.8935 $

Six Car Pub & Brewery

You’ll see attention to detail and not-yourrun-of-the-mill small plates and entrees at Six Car. The chefs feature local greens, grains, meats, brews and wine whenever possible. Enjoy brunch on Saturday on one of the breezy outdoor patios. 625 S. Polk St., 576.3396, sixcarpub.com $$

Smokey Joe’s on Route 66

A welcoming bar and grill located in the historic antique district on Route 66, Smokey Joe’s is one of Amarillo’s best-kept secrets. With an outdoor patio and live music on the weekends, this is the place to be. 2903 SW Sixth Ave., 331.6698 $$

Spicy Mike’s Bar-B-Q Haven

Diners won’t leave Mike’s hungry; they’ll leave licking their fingers. With chopped brisket sandwiches, tender pork ribs and more, Mike’s is a meat lover’s paradise.

6723 S. Western St., 358.8550, spicymikes.mymobisite.us $

Stix Food on a Stick

Serving lunch and dinner, Stix serves steak, chicken, pork, sausage, and ground beef kabobs – even roasted corn on a stick via a food truck. 676.3336 and now shares a dining area with J’s Bar & Grill. 3130 Soncy Road, 341.2451 $

SUMO Japanese Steakhouse

From sushi to noodles and stir-fry to traditional Japanese cuisine, you’ll find a packed menu and excellent cuisine and presentation at SUMO. With the city’s only master sushi chef, SUMO offers a generous sushi and sashimi menu, using the freshest quality ingredients. Order online or dine in six days a week. 2300 Bell St., 803.0874, sumoamarillo.com $$

Sun Donuts - Google says permanently closed

In the mood for a doughnut? Then you’d better go early to Sun Donuts, before all the delectable creations sell out. It seems impossible to narrow down the options, but customer favorites include bacontopped doughnuts, cream-filled with added strawberries, and spicy breakfast kolaches. We also have our eye on the croissants made to order with eggs, meat and cheese. 1615 N. Grand St., 367.9217 $

Sunday’s Kitchen

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday, and lunch only on Saturdays, Sunday’s Kitchen cooks up Gulf |

DECEMBER 2021

Coast and Cajun cuisine with a West Texas twist. During lunch choose from nachos, salads and sandwiches, like the popular pulled pork grilled cheese. For dinner, hearty entrees fill the menu. We’re drooling over the Atchafalaya Alfredo and classic shrimp and grits. 112 SW Sixth Ave., 418.6477 $

Super Bowl Noodle

In a sea of Asian restaurants, this popular eatery stands out from the rest. It stays busy thanks to its super-sized noodle bowls (hence, the name) and authentic Thai and Lao food. Try the beef or chicken larb, pho, or classic pad thai. 810 Columbia St., Suite 300, 418.8580 $

Sushi House

You’ll see Thai, Lao and Japanese influences on Sushi House’s ample menu. Start with one of the many sushi offerings or choose an appetizer like marinated short ribs. Feast on filling teppanyaki entrees (the fillet mignon and scallops caught our eye), or choose a traditional Thai favorite like fried rice. With most menu items priced at less than $10 each, it’s the perfect place to grab a tasty lunch or dinner.

2630 Wolflin Ave., 803.9470 $

Tacos Don Miguel

Serving Jalisco-style tacos, menudo, elote, and huge baked potatoes with all the fixings, Tacos Don Miguel is a favorite with local diners. 2509 Amarillo Blvd. East, 471.9325 $

Tacos Garcia

At Tacos Garcia, serving authentic Mexican food is a family affair. In the same location since 1999, the Veloz family serves up traditional favorites that keep loyal customers going back time after time. Try the Swiss enchiladas or the chile relleno lampriados. You won’t be disappointed. 1100 Ross St., 371.0411, tacosgarcia.com $$

Taqueria El Comal

This little shop’s homemade gorditas are always a delight. The building is easy to pass by, so slow down and keep your eyes peeled; you don’t want to miss out on this treasure. 1210 Amarillo Blvd. East, 373.7090 $

Taqueria El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant

Taqueria El Tapatio serves up authentic Mexican flavor in every dish. It’s just plain good food. The generous portions and affordable prices are easy on your pocketbook, too. 3410 S. Coulter St., 331.6248,

tapatiotx.com $

Taqueria Los Gallitos

You’ll find fresh, traditional Mexican food at Taqueria Los Gallitos. Sample from affordable offerings like tacos, burritos, gorditas, and menudo. 401 Amarillo Blvd.

East, 681.0069 $

Taqueria Rivera

This unassuming little place is easy to miss. But don’t let the exterior fool you.

The chorizo is well worth going a bit off the beaten path. 2602 SE Third Ave., 803.9485 $

Taqueria Y Restaurant El Sol de Mexico

With about 80 menu offerings, it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed on your first visit to El Sol de Mexico. But press on. Photos accompany each entree – which helps in the decision-making process – as does easy ordering with numbers for each item.

Choose from traditional Mexican plates and sides or something from the grill (quail is a tasty option.) 3501 NE 24th Ave., 383.2038 $

Taste of Thai

Taste of Thai serves traditional Thai cuisine and a variety of chef specials for lunch and dinner. Enjoy fresh-cooked taste and friendly service. 1900 SE 34th Ave., Suite 1100, 373.9995, amarillotasteofthai.com $

Teddy Jack’s Armadillo Grill

Teddy Jack’s is known for its Texas-style comfort food featuring gourmet burgers, brick-oven pizza, and Tex-Mex. But the ample menu doesn’t stop there – fill up on Italian entrees, seafood and wraps and sandwiches. There’s plenty of items to make you go back for more. 5080 S. Coulter St., 322.0113, amarillo.teddyjacks.com $$

Texas Chicken Bowl

A fixture on Amarillo Boulevard for decades, Texas Chicken Bowl serves Japanese, Chinese and Thai food, with daily lunch specials. Customers rave about the seafood soup, pad thai, and Gary Special.

Friendly service and low prices guarantee an enjoyable experience. 3011 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.9038 $

Texas Chicken Wok permanently closed

You’ll find plenty of affordable lunch and dinner options at Texas Chicken Wok. The

presentation of each entree speaks more to gourmet than low-budget, with a dazzling array of fresh-cut vegetables adorning every dish. 3205 I-40 East, 318.3952, ordertexaschickenwok.com $

Texas Firehouse Sports Bar & Grill

Texas Firehouse offers everything from a delicious, fried green bean appetizer to steaks to pizza, all in a family-friendly, smoke-free environment. Watch all your favorite sporting events while you eat.

3333 S. Coulter St., Suite D1, 351.1800, txfirehouse.com $$

Texas Roadhouse

This is one place you don’t have to worry about your kids leaving a mess. Everyone does – it’s OK to throw your peanut shells on the floor at the Roadhouse. Bread lovers will rejoice over the rolls and steak lovers will drool over the meat on display as soon as they walk through the door. Be ready for a wait, but the food’s worth it.

2805 I-40 West, 352.7427, texasroadhouse.com $

Texas Steak Express

When you can’t bear the heat of the grill, turn to Texas Steak Express for homecooked flavor delivered fast. Steak entrees come with a salad, loaded baked potato, and a roll. A variety of hearty sandwiches, salads, early bird specials, and tempting desserts round out the menu. 2600 S. Kentucky St., 358.8200, steakexpress.com $$

Thai Arawan

You’ll get your fill of fresh, authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Arawan. We recommend the angel noodle and the chicken fried rice.

Consistently good flavor and friendly service make this one of our favorites. 2834 Wolflin Ave., 463.7167, thaiarawan.com $$

Thai Diamond

An ample menu filled with Thai, Lao and Chinese food awaits you at Thai Diamond.

Choose from staples like pho, chicken wings, beef jerky and sticky rice, pad ladna, or mango catfish. This is a cash-only establishment. 1653 N. Grand St., 383.1900 $

Thai Express

In spite of the name, expect a wait at Thai Express, as your order is cooked fresh.

Standard Americanized dishes fill the menu, with customer favorites like fried rice, egg rolls, pad thai, and sweet and sour

chicken. Lunch and dinner specials are available for less than $10 each. 3314 S. Washington St., 367.8885 $

Thai House

A look past the classic dive appearance will gain you an excellent dining experience at Thai House. The diverse menu includes Thai, Lao and Chinese styles with can’tmiss choices like dancing shrimp, fresh Lao oysters, catfish and pad kee mao. 5601 Amarillo Blvd. East, 383.0003 $

Thai Koon

Loaded with flavor and made fresh to order, the Thai cuisine at Thai Koon is sure to satisfy that nagging craving for Asian fare.

We recommend the light and tasty summer rolls, pad kee mao, bursting with basil and broccoli, or savory beef salad. Ask the friendly staff about their favorites, too.

7030 S. Western St., 353.4444 $

Thai Menu

Thai aficionados rejoice! Thai Menu’s vast offerings will delight you. With appetizers, soups, salads, Thai specials, noodles, curry, dinner plates, and fried rice offerings – we counted 94 options not including lunch and dessert – there’s plenty to keep you satisfied. 6204 Hillside Road, Suite 900, 418.6824 $

Thai Palace

With more than 100 entrees available, your first visit to Thai Palace might feel somewhat overwhelming. Rather than settling for boring chicken fried rice, mix things up and opt for something from the curry menu.

With red, green, yellow, Panang, or Masaman, there’s a flavor for every palate. 4723 S. Western St., Suite F, 331.6011 $

Thai Pepper

Thai Pepper specializes in authentic and spicy Thai dishes. With 14 daily specials at less than $10 each, you’re sure to find something for each member of the family.

311 E. Hastings Ave., 381.5775 $

Thai Star

Thai Star has some of the most flavorful Thai dishes around, and people from all over rave about this little hole in the wall.

The pad thai is a favorite among many, but if you want to challenge your taste buds, we recommend the pad piek. And if that’s not spicy enough for you, we dare you to try the ghost pepper. 3800 Amarillo Blvd.

East, 383.4727 $ e

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806 inc.

Chamber of Commerce ribbon cuttings

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for the BNPC Monument unveiling (Bario Neighborhood Planning Committee) at 1012 SE 10th Ave. in the employees’ parking lot.

The business’s website is www.amarillobarrioneighborhood.com and the phone number is (806) 457-6592.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Choice Health Palliative Care at 1600 S. Coulter, Ste. 100. The business’s website is www.choicehealthpc.com and the phone number is (806) 731-4000.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE AMARILLO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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DECEMBER 2021

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas at 5807 SW 45th, Ste. 205. The business’s website is www.goodwillnwtexas.org and the phone number is (806) 331-6890.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Hotworx Wolflin Square at 2439 I-40 West. The business’s website is https://hotworx.net/studio/amarillo-wolflinsquare/ and the phone number is (806) 300-0155.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Flex Engineers at 2300 N. Western St., Ste. 115C, WT Enterprise Center. The business’s website is www.flex-engineers.com and the phone number is (832) 560-8450.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Republic Finance LLC at 2615 Wolflin Village. The business’s website is www.republicfinance.com and the phone number is (806) 414-1201.

The Amarillo Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting for Swann Animal Clinic at Plum Creek and Sidekicks Stay and Play at 8723 Plum Creek Drive. The business’s website is www.amarillovet.com and the phone number is (806) 641-1930.

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