Hey Margarita: Secrets to Making the Best Margarita

It’s summertime and one of our favorite summer drinks is the margarita. Maybe it’s that we’re in Texas. Maybe we just like tequila! Whatever it is, margaritas have our hearts in the summertime.

Sure, the best way to get the best margarita in all the land is to head over to see us at Tricky Fish, one of the best places to eat near me. But when you can’t be at Tricky Fish, or want to make a margarita at home for you and your pals, then here are a few secrets on how to get it perfect:

Don’t Skimp on Quality Ingredients

First things first, quality ingredients are a must. When you’re young and dumb, you may think the cheapest tequila on the shelf and a margarita mix will do the trick. Sure, it will make a margarita, but not a very good one. Simple, quality ingredients are what you need to guarantee the best flavor and end results. Make sure you use 100% agave tequila and freshly squeezed lime juice. You’ll thank us later.

Prepare Your Glass

Now that you’ve collected the right ingredients, it’s time to get started! The first step is to chill your glass. This can be done by putting the glasses in the freezer for a few minutes to chill up – or even by placing a few ice cubes in the bottom and removing them when you start pouring. Either way, a chilled glass will better insulate the chilled beverage and keep it cooler, longer. You’ll also want to add salt to the rim of the glass if desired. We love the added bite and balance to the cocktail a little salt adds! Dip the rim of your glass in freshly squeezed lime juice, then course ground salt to properly prepare your glass.

Measure it Out

Unless you have mastered the art of making a margarita, then it’s probably best that you go ahead and measure out your ingredients like they would at the best places to eat near me. Margaritas are one of those cocktails that if the proportions are off, it just doesn’t taste right. We recommend 1.5 oz. of tequila, 1 oz. of orange liquor, ¾ oz. of lime juice, and just a touch of agave nectar to taste for added sweetness. 

Experiment with Tequila Infusions

Want to change it up? A great way to infuse new flavor profiles into your margarita is by infusing your tequila with new flavors. One we love is the jalapeno. It packs a punch. Simply cup a jalapeno lengthwise and let it sit in the bottle of tequila for 4 hours or overnight. When you take it out, your tequila will have an essence of jalapeno that is sure to take your margaritas up a notch. 

Take Notes

As with any new culinary hobby, mixology is one that benefits from taking notes. Make notes of what recipe you used, what you liked about the margaritas you made, what you would change next time, modifications, etc. This gives you a starting place to jump from next time you decide to craft cocktails. 

Join us for Cocktails Today at Tricky Fish!

Don’t feel like mixing drinks today? We don’t blame you! Head to Tricky Fish asap, where we’ve got a full menu of handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients that you are sure to love. It’s one of the reasons we’re one of the best places to eat near me. 

Fried vs. Blackened: 5 Dishes to Try Today

What’ll it be: fried or blackened?

It’s a hard choice.

Frankly, we love both. Sometimes you’re in the mood for the comfort of fried catfish or shrimp; other days a blackened redfish hits the spot. Either way, our menu at Tricky Fish, one of the best Richardson restaurants near me, has you covered! We serve up fresh, hot, and delicious entrees, perfect for whatever you are craving. Read on as we highlight 5 popular dishes you must try today:

Fried: Fish Sandwich

Oh boy. This one is so good! Want in on our little secret? (It’s in the batter.) We use Abita beer in the fish batter to give it the perfect sweet and savory bite. Abita is brewed in Louisiana, making it perfect for a Cajun infusion! Each piece of fish is carefully battered, fried until golden brown, then served on our signature sandwich with bacon jam, creamy slaw, and remoulade. It’s hard to go wrong with this fantastic sandwich and we heartily recommend it as one of the great dishes at Richardson restaurants near me.

Blackened: Shrimp & Grits

Southern comfort doesn’t get much better than Shrimp & Grits. Ours makes the perfect lunch or dinner, with just enough heartiness that it’ll stick to your ribs for a while! Fresh Parmesan grits are light and fluffy, then served with tender blackened shrimp. Lastly, we add a tomato basil sauce drizzled on top. Order this one and you won’t be disappointed! 

Fried: Shrimp Po’Boy

Po’boys are the quintessential lunch. They are simple. Easy to eat. And absolutely perfect for on-the-go. Why fuss with fast food lunch when you can order this po’boy to go? Our fried shrimp is the perfect crowning jewel on this sandwich made with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and sauce on a toasted French bread loaf. Your meal is complete with fries or slaw on the side.

Blackened: Tricky Fish

Our namesake dish, the Tricky Fish can be ordered fried or blackened (but we love blackened!). But what’s a Tricky Fish? Tricky Fish brings in the influences of Cajun cuisine for simple, homemade, and delicious fare. This means your blackened fish is served over dirty rice and drenched in crawfish etouffee. One of our most popular dishes, you’ve got to try it at least once!

Fried: Seafood Platters

Why mess with something this good? Simple and delicious fried seafood platters are perfect any day of the week. Order your choice of shrimp, oysters, or catfish to be served with fries and slaw. You can also mix it up and get a little of everything! You pick it; we’ll fry it! 

Blackened: Seafood Tacos

Looking for something light? The Seafood Tacos are a great choice. Each features blackened shrimp or fish and avocado cilantro sauce, wrapped in a warm tortilla. Order a margarita and you’re set. 

Join us this week at Tricky Fish, one of the best Richardson restaurants near me, for these fried and blackened favorites. 

Insider Secrets: How to Grill the Perfect Fish at Home

Summer is here and that can only mean one thing: summer grilling!

We know you love to come into Tricky Fish for your grilled or fried fish fix, but when you want to enjoy some tasty fish at home, it can seem overwhelming. 

Many people are overwhelmed by the idea of cooking fish at home. Oven, grill, etc. – the delicate nature of fish can make it seem quite daunting. Have no fear! Our expert team at Tricky Fish – one of the best restaurants in Richardson - offers the following insider secrets on how to grill the perfect fish at home this summer for your next cookout:

Step 1: Limit Marinades

Marinades are optimal for many kinds of meat because they seal in flavors and penetrate the meats. The downside of this is that they actually begin to break down the meat in the process. With fish, it is already so flaky and delicate that any added breakdown in the meat is just not optimal. Instead, if you want to marinade, limit it to a couple of hours vs. overnight.

Step 2: Coat in Oil

Fish can be hard to grill because it does lose moisture quickly. One of the best ways to lock in moisture is to slather a rich olive oil or avocado oil all over your fish prior to grilling. This locks in moisture and prevents the fish from getting dried out.

Step 3: Preheat Grill to Optimum Temperature

As with any grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to the desired temperature prior to putting on the meat. If you put meat on too soon, the meat will stick to the grates, and when fish are involved, this generally means a big mess for you! Shoot for 400-500 degrees Fahrenheit prior to adding your fish.

Step 4: Close the Lid

For fish, you absolutely do not want to overcook, according to the best restaurants in Richardson. The less cook time the better, so close the grill lid as you cook fish. This allows the top of the fish to begin to cook while you sear the bottom. One last quick flip at the end and your fish is done!

Step 5: Foil is Your Friend

When working with fish, many light fish varieties just don’t stand up well on the grill. A salmon filet may work okay, but lighter cod may not. When in doubt, go ahead and spray a piece of foil down with oil and wrap the fish in the foil for grilling. Or even just use the foil on the grill as an added barrier to prevent fish from falling through.

As always, when you don’t feel like cooking and want the best fish in town, come see us at Tricky Fish, one of the best restaurants in Richardson or Fort Worth! 

5 Health Benefits of Seafood

Many Americans struggle to work seafood into their diets. Other cultures rely on seafood as the main protein in their diets, but with so many Americans living inland, it just isn’t as big a part of our daily lives here.

Did you know that fish and other seafood can actually have some really great health benefits? Read on to learn more about some of the benefits you can enjoy from filling your belly with some delicious seafood:

Nutrient-Rich Proteins

Many people think about seafood as being low in “bad things” that hurt our overall health, and at the same time, they forget that it’s actually high in lots of “good things!” Some of those include vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin D, and more, depending on the type of fish or seafood we are talking about. 

One popular fish on our menu at Tricky Fish (one of the best food near me), the Blackened Redfish, is not only low in saturated fat, but it’s high in niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin b12, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium. These are all great nutrients packed into one delicious entrée!

Sharpens the Brain

Have you heard of omega-3 fatty acids? This nutrient is responsible for boosting our brain function, with proven results in helping developing infants and the elderly alike. It’s even said to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease! That’s pretty incredible!

The Peel & Eat shrimp are a great way to get some brain-boosting power all while starting your meal with the perfect appetizer. 

Heart Health

The link between eating at least one serving of seafood a week and an overall healthy heart is well-documented. Researchers agree that seafood should be a part of a healthy diet and one of the best food near me when it comes to protecting the heart. The combination of low saturated fats and high fatty acids makes for the perfect heart-healthy food. Try the blackened tilapia, salmon, or redfish today! 

Eases Joint Pain

Some research suggests that eating a diet rich in seafood reduces arthritis symptoms and overall joint pain. This is great news to many of us! Pack some fish tacos or salmon with lemon butter sauce into your diet regularly and feel the health effects.

Improves Eyesight

Those same omega-3s that are known for helping keep your brain and heart healthy are also linked to improved eyesight! These fatty acids are powerhouses when it comes to maintaining eyesight for the long run. Another fun fact? Supposedly eating shellfish can improve night vision? Try it and let us know if it works!

At Tricky Fish, we are proud to offer the highest quality seafood and best food near me in the Dallas area. We love serving the Richardson and Fort Worth areas with fresh, attainable seafood dishes that are not only healthy, but also delicious. Come see us this week for some seafood and a handcrafted cocktail! 

Celebrate Mom with a Meal at Tricky Fish

Mother’s Day is fast approaching – what did you get mom this year?

If you aren’t sure, then we’ve got ideas! How about treating mom to a meal at Tricky Fish? Last year, US Foods surveyed moms about what they wanted for Mother’s Day, and a top gift idea was food or drink, with the majority of moms interested in their family eating out or getting takeout on Mother’s Day. See, mom’s want to enjoy the great food at Tricky Fish this Mother’s Day!

Delicious Offerings for Mom

Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to treat mom to the incredible dishes here at Tricky Fish. There is a little something for everyone. We have salads, Southern-style entrees, comfort food, seafood, pasta, and more. Here are 5 dishes we think mom would love to sink her teeth into on Mother’s Day:

Shrimp Linguine

Rich Sherry Bourbon Cream Sauce, anyone? Our linguine is coated in this silky sauce, then tossed with shrimp and roasted tomatoes. Mom is sure to love it – and you will too! Pasta is an excellent choice for Mother’s Day and good restaurants near me know it. 

Fried Platters

Does mom love fresh seafood? Then she will love our fried platters! Choose between fried catfish, fried oysters, or fried shrimp. Each basket of fried goodness is complete with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, French fries, and slaw. You can order just one protein, two, or all three for a little variety.

Redfish with Lemon Butter Sauce

Fresh seafood is a signature offering here at Tricky Fish and one of the reasons we are one of the good restaurants near me in Richardson and Fort Worth. The Redfish with Lemon Butter Sauce is one of those special dishes you simply can’t get anywhere. The tangy and rich sauce is the perfect complement to the fish, and it comes with orzo pilaf and vegetables on the side. Healthy, satisfying, and delicious.

Low Country Cobb Salad

Does mom love salads? Then steer her toward the Low Country Cobb! This unique salad takes a traditional Cobb salad and gives it a Tricky Fish twist. The salad is complete with okra, banana peppers, egg, tomato, blue cheese, bacon, and a honey mustard vinaigrette. Get grilled chicken or shrimp on top to make it a complete meal. Yum! 

Banana Pudding

Finish off the meal with a decadent, yet simple, dessert like our Bread Pudding. We use mascarpone for creaminess, ‘Nilla wafers, and drizzle it all in a dark rum sauce. 

Come to Tricky Fish for Mother’s Day!

At Tricky Fish, we have what Mom wants: a memorable meal (that she didn’t cook!), to enjoy with you! Come see us on Mother’s Day or any day during Mother’s Day weekend. Our good restaurants near me in Richardson and Fort Worth will be open and ready to serve you. 

5 Dishes You and Your Friends Must Try!

Ever feel like you just need to get out and meet some friends for a great lunch date or dinner?

When you do go out, it can get easy to get in a rut with your order. You know you love enchiladas, so you always order enchiladas. At Tricky Fish, we have a large menu with lots of great dishes – from seafood, to Southern comfort food, to Cajun food, to gourmet scratch kitchen dishes, and more. 

This week we encourage you to grab some friends and try something you haven’t tried before! Here are 5 of our most popular dishes that you are sure to love from one of the good restaurants near me, Tricky Fish:

The Darn Good Salad

When it comes to salads, the Darn Good Salad, or D.G.S. for short, is pretty tasty. You will love the spiced pecans, cranberries, onions, bleu cheese, and croutons that add the perfect balance of sweet and savory to a bed of greens. Top it all off with Balsamic Vinaigrette and it’s sure to be a winner if you are looking for salad! You can also add a protein like chicken, shrimp, or salmon to any of our salads.

Fish & Chips

This is our twist on the classic from across the pond. We use an Abita beer batter to batter the white fish, cooking until it’s nice and crispy on the outside – warm and flaky on the inside. Fries, slaw, and our homemade remoulade are served on the side. This dish is great for lunch or dinner with your favorite cocktail, but it’s hard to find fish and chips and the good restaurants near me in Richardson.

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

If you want to kick it up a notch, then the Nashville Hot is where it’s at! The traditional chicken sandwich gets a facelift with spicy fried chicken breast and a vinegar slaw on a soft bun. Good eating!

French Toast Sundae

Leave room for dessert! The French Toast Sundae is out of this world good! It starts with bread pudding, then we layer on vanilla ice cream and a peach and bourbon sauce. It’s so good you may not want to share with anyone else!

The Tricky Fish

We’d be amiss if we didn’t point out our signature dish. If you haven’t tried this yet, then it’s time. Your choice of fresh fish is cooked to perfection then layered with crawfish etouffee and dirty rice. It’s a Cajun’s dream!! Simple, southern, and absolutely delicious.  

Join us this Week at Tricky Fish!

Stop going to the good restaurants near me in Richardson and come see the best: Tricky Fish! We are conveniently located in CityLine in Richardson and Waterside in Fort Worth and we can’t wait to serve you. 

Join us Easter Weekend for Brunch

Have plans for Easter weekend?

Chances are, you likely have an extra day off somewhere, and that means more time to play! Hopefully this weekend will include some beautiful Spring weather, which would be perfect for brunching with us on our patio. Come join us at Tricky Fish this weekend for brunch near me, cocktails, and more:

When is Tricky Fish Brunch?

At Tricky Fish, brunch is something we do on the weekends (even though we wish it could be every day!) If you want to join us for brunch, then some see us on Saturdays and Sundays between 10am and 2pm.  

What are some of the Favorite Brunch Offerings?

We are constantly re-evaluating our menu and looking to create new and delicious dishes you will love! But when also know, when our regulars have found entrees they love – we don’t mess with them! Here are 5 of the top brunch menu items available during our weekend brunch:

Bananas Foster Monkey Bread

We take classic monkey bread and make it even better with bananas, dark rum, and of course, added cinnamon and sugar. You can enjoy this all on your own or share because it’s huge! Another brunch deal worth considering: our Couple’s Brunch. The Bananas Foster Monkey Bread is included in our Couple’s Brunch deal, along with 2 entrees of our choice. If you have a sweet tooth, this is a must try!

Avocado Toast

Our avocado toast is anything but boring! You will love that ours starts with a delicious, crispy baguette that we load with avocado. Next, we layer on tomatoes and red onions, then finish it off with a Balsamic glaze. It’s almost an avocado toast bruschetta, and it’s fantastic! 

Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

This is another option for those who love something sweet in the morning for brunch near me, and it’s exactly what it sounds like! You’ve had regular French toast, but you will love the creamy filling inside of ours. Topped with macerated berries and an orange cream sauce, you’ll think you’re having dessert instead of brunch! 

Seafood Stacked Enchiladas

At Tricky Fish, we’re known for our seafood and we’ve found ways to add fresh seafood to our brunch offerings. One to try is the Seafood Stacked Enchiladas. This hearty dish includes a little of everything: shrimp, crab, queso, a sunny side up egg, and our breakfast potatoes. The result is a plated stacked high with so much deliciousness, you won’t know where to start!

The American Standard

When you want a traditional brunch, look no further than the American Standard. It includes 2 eggs, bacon, our incredible breakfast potatoes, and grilled ciabatta toast. It’s a classic, no fuss breakfast you are sure to savor.

Come Join us for Easter Weekend Brunch!

Spring is in the air, and with Easter Weekend approaching, there isn’t a better time to enjoy brunch near me at Tricky Fish! We have these brunch entrees and more, plus brunch cocktails, coffee, and more. We can’t wait to see you at our Richardson or Fort Worth locations!

Happy Muleday: Secrets Behind the Copper Mug

Happy Muleday!

Okay it’s Monday – but we think “Muleday” sounds a lot more fun!

And at Tricky Fish, it is! In fact, on Mondays we have great deals on our full selection of delicious mules at one of the best restaurants near me. For Happy Hour on Mondays, it’s $5/mule! And that is not just our signature mule! We have a full menu of mules including the Lime in the Coco Mule, Fire & Ice Mule, Hola Peno Mango Mule, and more. These are all just $5 during Happy Hour on Mondays, but also available anytime you come see us.

Anyway, so want to learn a few secrets behind the copper mug? How did the mule come into existence? Why the copper? Read on as we discuss:

Who Invented the Moscow Mule?

It’s debatable. While a bartender by the name of Wes Price has taken credit, the most popular story is that it was invented by John Martin and Jack Morgan. As the story goes, John Martin was the ad man for Smirnoff Vodka in the United States; Jack Morgan was the owner of Cock ‘n’ Bull Bar in Los Angeles. At the time (which was the 1940s), Americans weren’t really keen on vodka, so Martin was having a hard time selling it. Meanwhile, Morgan seemed to have a surplus of ginger beer. One night, the two got to thinking and decided, “why not invent a cocktail with both?!” The Moscow Mule that you enjoy at the best restaurants near me was born! 

Why are Moscow Mules Served in a Copper Mug?

In fact, the story above gets better! According to most accounts, Jack Morgan’s girlfriend at the time owned a copper company, so naturally, Morgan was able to get a good deal on copper mugs. This was partly a marketing stunt. Morgan traveled around taking pictures of celebrities and bartenders holding a bottle of Smirnoff vodka and a copper mug, creating excitement around the drink. People would see these then walk into a bar asking for the “vodka drink the copper mug!” They immediately associated copper with the cocktail.

Now maybe this is sheer coincidence, but there is actual science to support that the drink actually tastes better in a copper mug. The copper conducts the chill, making the mug itself icy. This creates a cooling sensation when the drink touches your lips. Not only that, but research suggests the carbonation is actually increased by the copper, making it more fizzy and refreshing.

Who’s Ready for a Moscow Mule?!

Ready to enjoy a mule and share a few fun facts with your friends? Head over to see us at Tricky Fish this week in Fort Worth or Richardson, Texas at one of the best restaurants near me. We have mules, craft beer, delicious scratch kitchen fare, and more.