Gays have discriminating palates. At least that’s a stereotype we gladly embrace. Along with being smarter, funnier and infinitely more handsome than our non-queer brethren.
So it’s always a surprise that most Oak Lawn/Cedar Springs gayborhood restaurants are relatively basic. Where, oh where, is the finer food?
If you ask us, that wish can be fulfilled once you step inside Orno. The small, family-owned bistro next door to The Round-Up recently celebrated a year in business, a feat worth celebrating given Dallas diners’ way of moving on to the NBT (Next Big Thing). But if you’re like us, you’ve never been into Orno for more than their delightfully balanced cocktails. Or at all.
If that describes you, time to change that once and for all. Because the dishes here are approachable yet wonderfully elevated thanks to its made-from-scratch mantra and an extremely talented chef.
Most of the plates are shareable, which makes it great for hitting up before a night out on the strip with friends. A charcuterie and cheese board fits that bill perfectly, as do the flatbreads, which range from roasted veggie to brie, pear and sausage.
Of course, we all have those friends who are territorial about their food and prefer their own plate. Well, Orno has selfish dishes, too, from a kick-ass pork chop with mango chutney to an insanely juicy roasted Amish chicken (hmm, we’ve never asked a chicken its religious preference before).
At lunch, the Orno burger starts with ribeye trimmings that they grind in-house and top with a variety of delectable toppings, including housemade horseradish garlic pickles and sherry-caramelized onions. Served with homemade chips, salad or soup of the day, it’s a steal at $10.
Of course, even if you don’t find yourself with a growling stomach, Orno is always worth checking out for the aforementioned expertly composed cocktails, especially when David is behind the bar.
Because to shatter at least one stereotype, not all gays live on vodka-soda alone.
Orno
3908 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas
ornodallas.com
