Some things are just better together, peanut butter and jelly, bread and butter, milk and cookies. Same can be said for cocktails and food! Enjoy a perfect pairing that can help elevate your dining experience. Let's explore Irving’s restaurant scene and discover the amazing food and beverage pairings available!
Pizza & Wine
Lamberti’s Ristorante & Wine Bar
7701 N MacArthur Blvd.
If you’re dining at Lamberti's in Irving, it’s hard to walk away without ordering a bottle of Italian wine and one of their fresh-baked pizzas. This is a pairing made in culinary heaven. If you are going with a classic red sauce, a bold red like Sangiovese, Chianti, or Super Tuscan blend complements your meal. If you like the creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious white sauce pizzas, a glass of Rosé or Pinot Grigio will make your tastebuds sing.
Fried Chicken & Champagne
The Ranch at Las Colinas
857 W John Carpenter Fwy
Not many people have heard of pairing fried chicken with champagne, but it truly is something spectacular! The best place to try this combination is The Ranch at Las Colinas. Their fried chicken is some of the best around. They also have an impressive wine list that features several French champagnes for the real-deal experience. Indulge in the finer things in life, Texas style. Champagne has acidity that cuts through the grease of fried chicken and the bubbles compliment the crunchy exterior, like your favorite beer would do. Try this combo at brunch with their chicken and waffles or at dinner with their chicken fried chicken entree!
Sushi & Sake
Edoko Omakase
1030 W John Carpenter Fwy #100
Sushi and sake is a traditional pairing that dates back centuries, and for a good reason! Sake is rice wine from Japan that is served warm or chilled. Just like wine from grapes, no two sakes are alike and vary in flavor, acidity, and richness. If you are new to the world of sake, Edoko Omakase is a great place to learn and enjoy some of the best sushi in Irving. Their knowledge staff will help you explore the perfect pairing with your maki roll, sashimi, or teriyaki bowl and they often host sake pairing dinners which gives you the chance to try several side by side.
Oysters & Martinis
Hudson House
5904 N MacArthur Blvd.
There's a reason the happy hour at Hudson House is so iconic in DFW, martinis and oysters. Whether you are visiting during the week for the famous ½ off martinis and $3 oysters deal or just stopping in to enjoy a great meal, Hudson House is the place to be for this classic culinary pairing. On the menu, the Biue & Gold martini features vodka, olive juice, bleu cheese salt, and housemade bleu cheese olives are the perfect sidekick for the fresh and Briney east coast oysters at Hudson House. Vodka has a clean and neutral flavor that does not overpower the oyster, and the cheesy salt brings out the Unami and pairs great with the garnishes like fresh lemon and horseradish.
Steak & Whiskey
Knife Italian Steak
4150 N MacArthur Blvd.
If you’re looking for a fine dining meal, then Knife Italian Steak needs to be on your Irving dining list! It's a blend of people's two most favorite meals - steak and Italian. The chef-driven menu will turn anyone into a foodie. Enjoy prime cuts of meat that will just melt in your mouth. Their Bistecca a la Las Colinas is the chef's take on the classic Tuscan Italian steak, Bistecca alla Fiorentina. The 48 oz bone in Dry Aged Porterhouse from 44farms is cooked to order and presented and plated tableside. A great pairing to enjoy with these high-quality selections is a smooth glass of whiskey. Knife has an incredible whiskey, rye, and bourbon selection and their staff can help you choose the perfect complement. When looking at the two, whiskey and beef both get better as they age and can bring out the robust flavor in each other.
Tacos & Margaritas
Mexican Sugar Cocina
3215 Regent Blvd.
In Texas, taco is king and there is no better place to indulge in the time-honored tradition of tacos and margaritas than at Mexican Sugar Cocina. Bright, fresh, and just how you like it; the bartenders at Mexican Sugar know how to whip up the perfect margarita. If you can't decide from their delicious flavors, try their margarita flight and enjoy the classic lime, sweet hibiscus, or refreshing watermelon. These will all pair greatly with their tasty tacos. High-quality but simple ingredients blend the flavors of Mexico in one perfect housemade corn tortilla.
Brunch & Bloody Marys
Whiskey Cake Las Colinas
3225 Regent Blvd.
While everyone thinks of mimosas for brunch, do not miss out on the culinary pairing of brunch food and Bloody Marys! Whether you're new to the game or a Bloody Mary master, Whiskey Cake has the Bloody Mary flight of your dreams. Explore unique flavor combinations and find a new favorite that will surely make any haters into fans. Try a classic spicy tomato, zesty carrot, refreshing spicy cucumber, and savory beet! Bloody Marys go best with something delicious, salty, and rich in flavor. These will pair deliciously with Whiskey Cakes chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and hangover burger! The best way to get your weekend started!
