1. Locals have been happily feasting on stacked chicken enchiladas and tenderloin tamales, among other fine Western dishes, at Reata for ten years now; repeat diners know not to pass up the dessert tacos with caramelized bananas and chocolate gravy. The four-story space, with its romantic rooftop dining dome, recently got a minor face-lift. 310 Houston, 817-336-1009
2. Mayfair on Main Street is a magpie’s heaven. Glistening with bangles and brooches and beaded purses, the boutique also carries an eclectic mix of romantic dresses, candles, stationery, ornaments, and even baby blankets. Take advantage of the complimentary gift wrap and finish your holiday shopping early. 316 Main, 817-336-0989
3. Inaugurated in 1982, the Sid Richardson Collection of Western Art has just been renovated by Bass Hall architect David Schwarz. See works by the late oilman’s favorite artists, Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, when the museum—now 1,800 square feet larger— reopens to the public next month. 309 Main, 817-332-6554
4. With some 240 beers and ales (about 80 on tap) and an ever-changing rotation of brews, no tongue goes dry at the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. Act fast to sample this season’s must-tastes; Saint Arnold Divine Reserve No. 2, a Belgian strong ale with a hint of toffee, recently sold out in three hours. 111 E. Fourth, 817-336-7470
5. If you’re a sucker for sweet novelties, watch your wallet (and waistline) at Schakolad Chocolate Factory. The franchise, which whips up handmade confections, is known for its specialty molds—from chess sets and soccer balls to replicas of the Eiffel Tower. Preorder your chocolate turkey and cornucopia for Thanksgiving now. 106 E. Fourth, 817-870-2400
6. Escape the city’s Cowtown vibe when you step into the sleek Ashton Hotel. Make a beeline for the serene Café Ashton, just off the lobby, to rest your feet and indulge in afternoon tea ($30, reservations required a day ahead). The finger sandwiches, petits fours, and free flute of champagne are a sightseer’s secret weapon against overexertion. 610 Main, 866-327-4866
7. The Jubilee Theatre’s twenty-sixth season, which opens this month, will be the first for new artistic director Ed Smith. He continues the legacy of late founder Rudy Eastman with playwright August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, a snapshot of black America in the 1910’s perfectly suited for this intimate 147-seat space. 506 Main, 817-338-4202
8. Leddy’s Ranch at Sundance Square—a descendant of M.L. Leddy’s, the Stockyards’ Neiman Marcus of Western wear—has all the usuals (designer boots, pearl-snap shirts), but it’s the upscale ambience that makes you stay awhile. Sit in the inviting “living room” and imagine what that antler chandelier ($3,495) would look like at home. 410 Houston, 817-336-0800
9. The merch can be a tad touristy at Retro Cowboy, but there are real-deal finds here too: Skinny Minnie rhinestone tees, about twenty kinds of Texas wine, and chilled bottles of Dublin Dr Pepper. Say “cheese” as you pose in the old-timey photo booth; the strip of black and white portraits is just $3. 406 Houston, 817-338-1194
10. The signature rolls at Piranha Killer Sushi might be off-kilter (the Marry Me includes shrimp tempura, ginger cream, avocado, tuna, and strawberries), but they’re worth the wade through weekend crowds. City slickers in the know sip saketinis at the bar, and lunchers on a budget are more than sated by $9.95 bento boxes. 335 W. Third, 817-348-0200
