Mission

(From August 2011)

The sultry aroma of woodsmoke and the fresh scent of surrounding orange groves swirl about this converted two-story home, quaint with wood siding and Texas memorabilia. Step up to the counter and place an order for fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs and succulent beef ribs (sometimes hard to find at barbecue joints). They’re seasoned with just a little dry rub, and they both go well with 492’s thin vinegar-pepper barbecue sauce. Wash it all down with a cherry lemonade, perfect for a hot South Texas afternoon. 

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(From June 2011) Caribe Upbeat tropical rhythms greet you at this Caribbean kitchen, a lively jewel in downtown Mission. We were welcomed by a friendly waitress who quickly explained some of the dishes we should try. We chose the pastelillos (like empanadas but with flakier crusts) stuffed with savory ground beef and minced green olives; we enjoyed the sweet spiciness of the dish. Next we tried the pernil, tender roasted pork shoulder served with white rice topped with black beans and a side of crispy plantains. Cocina also offers a large selection of tra-ditional Cuban sandwiches.

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(From July 2011)

With sushi chefs imported from New York, this place is sure to entice the Valley’s lovers of Japanese food. Broken into three areas, the space has a lively hibachi area, a sushi bar with a cool urban vibe, and a separate bar with pumping house music. Start with the Wasabi Tuna Dumpling: Minced king crab and avocado get wrapped with a thin slice of tuna and placed atop a cucumber slice with an artful drizzle of wasabi mayo. Or the Ocean Mix Tartare, with king crab, salmon, ikura, and tomato pressed neatly into a tower. We also loved the Scorpion Roll, with soft-shell crab, shrimp tempura, and eel. The hibachi meals are fun too and best enjoyed with families or large group. Bar. 

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