Category Archives: BBQ

A Day In The Life… Fort Worth

Life is not meant to be boring for this girl hailing from Vermont. I’ve decided to start this new series, “A Day In The Life” which will follow me for an entire day, wherever I happen to be. Some day’s I need a break but other’s amaze even myself when it comes to the moments that I come across.

Day In The Life - Ft. Worth 020814For the first installment, where better to start than one of my favorite places in Texas and the place that I call my “Texas home”, Fort Worth.

The first part of the day was spent running errands so I won’t get into that. Next came lunch. I’ve been looking for a new BBQ place to try and heard this was the place! (Funny thing was I drove by this location a year ago on a random drive.) Great BBQ, a dessert that will “blow your mind” (ask for the Pecan cake) and some Texas scenery, this is now my place – Billy’s Oak Acres BBQ. Sure the building gives the “are we sure about this” appearance but once inside you are surrounded by the greatness of what BBQ and Texas is all about.

Billy's Oak Acres BBQThis visit was different than what one would normally find. This was day one of setting up shop for a TV show that would be filmed all this week. I even was asked for an interview on my experience at the restaurant. Let me tell you – being in front of the camera is much different than being behind it. No preparation and being put on the spot – oy! [If you’re looking for a TV opp and some delicious BBQ – this is your place this week!]

Next up – I headed to the old part of Fort Worth – The Fort Worth Stockyards. Beware, this is a huge tourist spot. Don’t let all the “tourist” locations only suck you in, there’s so much more! If you happen to head this way, there’s so much more than what meets the eye, especially depending on what time you visit. For me, this visit was purely concentrated on photographing some of the old buildings but I found a few other gems along the way.

Day In The Life Ft Worth 020814(1)The sights in this area are incredible. Bring your camera, even if you are a local. The buildings and art work located on them are truly a gem but don’t let your eye bypass the other sights along the way.  A simple boot shine sign, yep – they’ve got it. Slip on into a small restaurant to listen to some local flavor, you can find it here too. Plus there’s always the fun of peeking into the boutiques or looking and dreaming about your next pair of boots! You can never have too many pairs!

A quick stop at home, followed by a short walk in a local park (the weather was actually decent enough for a walk so I took advantage) followed up by getting ready for a sold out show. Patty Griffin was playing at The Live Oak in Fort Worth. I’ve waited months for this show. This venue has turned into one of my favorites (except for how packed it was for this show). We ended up eating dinner here as well. The service happened to be a bit slow and a little packed. So packed, we shared a table with a couple in front of us who were on their first date. Oh, moments! Excellent musicians, plenty of microbrews on tap and a good crowd of people.

(For more video’s, check out my YouTube channel)

The show ended early, so why stop there? The Southside Fort Worth district is amazing. Every once in a while it’s good to venture from the downtown or West 7th Street areas. I found my way to Shipping and Receiving and upon a band that was right on the money. Wally West & Them Lostbound Souls. Reminded me a bit of Ryan Bingham. Great, small local band to come across.

Wally West and Them Lostbound SoulsLastly, I ended the night venturing to one more late night stop and a local food truck. Heck, if you can end your day with good breakfast food from a food truck – it was a pretty good day! Until next time Fort Worth!

Have you been to any of these places? What are your favorites in Fort Worth?

Masons Mama

Get Your Tickets – The Best Food Event of the Year

Steak and Wine. Texas Hill Country. Small, Texas town. Surround yourself with friends, family and great people at this event. This is one that you won’t want to miss and I promise when you go home you’ll say to yourself, I can’t wait to go back next year.

Next Saturday, May 18th, the annual Texas Steak Cookoff in Hico, Texas is taking place. Here is your reminder and a few details about this great event!

Steak Cookoff

  • This year Nolan Ryan is opening up the event! That’s right – NOLAN RYAN!
  • Opening Ceremony 12pm
  • The Mayor, Mike James (Chairman of the Event), National Anthem, visit with the Longhorn and the sponsors (Kroger, Nolan Ryan and the Chairman of Nolan Ryan Meats) will officiate the ribbon cutting.
  • For $25, you will receive a bracelet which will allow you to enjoy appetizers and the steak dinner in the afternoon (ribeye steak, salad, baked potato and a drink) cooked to your perfection by the team of your choice. You’re belly will thank you for this day!
  • 106 teams competing!
  • Winners announced at 7pm. Prizes for top five teams ranging from $500 – $2,500.

Live music includes four bands from 10am to 7pm.

Take Part in the Wine Tasting…

  • $20 Admission
  • 11am – 5pm
  • Receive a commemorative glass.
  • Two tents this year includes 13 wineries from the great state of Texas.
  • Glass / Bottle purchases available.

PBR Rodeo

  • $20 Admission
  • Begins at 7:30pm – Will last around three hours.
  • Cody Ohl, legendary roper from Hico, Texas and one of the highest nationwide earners is assisting in putting on this event.
  • Will be held in the park area near town (within walking distance from the cookoff and wine tents).
  • Beer and BBQ will be served.

Need a Place to Stay?
Check out Stephenville and Glen Rose – multiple hotels / lodging options.

Need More Info…
Check out my previous experience. If this doesn’t convince you, I’m not sure what will!
Texas Steak Cookoff 2012
Texas Steak Cookoff 2011
Texas Steak Cookoff 2010

Buy Your Tickets Today
I’ll be there! If you’re headed there, let me know!