Coast Global Seafood
Plano Located in front of the new fountain in Plano’s trendy Shops at Legacy, this hot spot, with its opulent, oceanic decor—think cool watery colors, coral effects, chandeliers that look like jellyfish—sets the scene for a delightfully complex menu starring a cast of fresh seafood. The Peruvian causa was a multilayered “parfait” of whipped golden potatoes, peekytoe crab, avocado, and spicy aji amarillo sauce (you could also think of it as Peru’s answer to salade niçoise), while the Georges Bank sea scallops were cooked to just-done perfection and covered in a buttery honeycomb-and-chardonnay sauce. Surprisingly, the dessert was the best part of the evening: a heavenly lemon phyllo tart with a side of buttermilk ice cream topped with pistachio chips. Bar. 7501 Lone Star Dr (972-265-4722). Dinner Mon–Thur 5–10, Fri & Sat 5–11. Closed Sun. $$$ W+
Buenos Aires Café East
Austin Fueled by popular demand, Buenos Aires Café—Austin’s first Argentine eatery—has opened a second location, on the city’s east side. Spacious and inviting (have original hardwood floors ever looked so good?), the haunt serves up popular Argentine fare, including authentic Buenos Aires empanadas. The flaky pastries come with various fillings, including a don’t-miss carne picante, with scallions, raisins, and green olives, and a vegetarian’s dream packed with spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan. Entrées can be spotty; steer clear of the bland gnocchi and head straight for the pastel de papas, Argentina’s answer to Britain’s shepherd’s pie. Finish with a scrumptious dessert—cuatro leches cake, panqueques (dessert crepes), or flan de Buenos Aires. These are the real stars of the South American show. Beer & wine. 1201 E. 6th (512-382-1189). Open Mon–Thur 9–9:30, Fri & Sat 9–10. Closed Sun. $$ W+
