One of the benefits of traveling coast to coast on a constant basis is the opportunity to discover terrific restaurants. This is a slight offset to the arduous hours in airlines, airports, cabs and the like. I have decided to start sharing some of my absolute favorites.

I am huge Mexican food fan...and having lived in Southern California for 12 years I consider myself qualified to assess good Mexican. Taco Diner in Dallas is not good....IT'S FANTASTIC! This "mexico city taqueria" is very casual...actually cool. It's hip, almost stark /Santa Fe meets California decor is the first sign that the place is going to be a little different than your average Mexican cafe. There are 5 locations (part of the M Crowd Restaurant Group) and we were so enamored with the food that we ate lunch there two days in a row.

The drinks rock, including the Mango Margarita and the Mambo Taxi. However, like any great Mexican restaurant, the hint that good things are coming starts with the chips and salsa. They serve a brown and a green salsa with fresh chips...the tastes are unique and memorable. The guacamole is also above par.

Finally, the food is amazing. From the Tacos Campiones to the Asados "A la Parrila" to the Guacamole "Mi Tierra" you simply cant go wrong with anything on their menu. A must if you are in Dallas!