The opening of Indian restaurant 8 Cloves reinforces what devoted diners have always known about the Dallas Farmers Market: you can sample everything the world has to offer, all in one place.
The newest addition to the foodie wonderland inside The Market comes from one of the chefs behind Laili, Afifa Nayeb. She's put her own creative twist on the Indian spice world, developing recipes with spices from north and south India.
Traditional korma, tikka, biryani, and curry dishes populate the menu, but with thali platters (a sampling of several different meals), a lamb boti skillet (tender lamb pieces marinated in ginger and caramelized onions with a light curry yogurt), and salads (one has diced fresh vegetables and feta with dried mint in a lime vinaigrette) furthering the offerings. There's even brunch, with a spicy take on omelets and a "chef's specialty" roasted tomato and egg sandwich. Desserts run the gamut from a tres leches cheesecake to kheer rice pudding and mango crème brûlée.
8 Cloves joins an array of Vietnamese, Mediterranean, Cajun, Caribbean, Mexican, Italian, and regional favorites, all in The Market.
Chef Afifa's Laili is known for its dumplings and turnovers, cooked with spices and flavors from regions along the Silk Road trade routes.
BellaTrino’s Neapolitan Pizzeria at the Market boasts Italian sandwiches, pastas, and salads in addition to its delicious pizzas. Palmieri Cafe brings a Southern Italian flair to its coffee and baked goods, while Chelles Macarons offers a literal rainbow of choices for the delicate French dessert.
Enjoy a taste of island paradise at Caribbean Cabana, or explore Vietnamese fusion at Nammi Truck. Rex's Seafood and Market has some of the freshest ocean fare you'll find in Dallas, with Cajun Tailgators serving up a different sort of aquatic resident: fried gator.
People make pilgrimages for El Mero Mero's tamales and Taqueria La Ventana handmade Mexican street tacos, but there are also gourmet tacos, burritos, quesadillas, salads, elotes, and churros, not to mention the all-important beers and margaritas. And for more beer, Noble Rey Brewing Co. has got you covered.
On the weekends, the international options expand even further in The Shed.
You could get a taste of traditional Asian flavors at Wu Dujour, or munch on Cuban favorites at Mi Habana. Proper Baking Company makes traditional British foods from scratch, while Brother Products brings light Mediterranean flair with fresh hummus, pita chips, and an array of vegan and vegetarian products.
And because vendors at The Shed are continually rotating, there's always a chance that you'll uncover more new and interesting flavors with each visit.
It comes from Chef Afifa Nayeb of neighboring restaurant Laili.
