Guiso del rey at Mesa. Photo by Danny Fulgencio

Guiso del rey at Mesa. Photo by Danny Fulgencio

Mesa owner Raul Reyes Sr. is a DIY guy. The chef envisioned a huge patio at the rear of his family-owned Jefferson Boulevard restaurant, and with the aid of a few helpers, he made it a reality. The back patio is a great place to dine on Mesa’s amazing enchiladas de mole, cochinita pibil or the signature guiso del rey … in the wintertime. In warm weather, there is no breeze, and the owners close it off for the season. But Reyes, always an idea man, has transformed the front of the restaurant too. Mesa’s new storefront includes a walk-up bar and windows that open the restaurant to the street. So the sweetness of spring and the unique energy of West Jefferson come through, even when you’re sitting inside.

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Mesa Veracruz Coastal Cuisine, 118 W. Jefferson, 214.941.4246

Ambiance: Modern

Price Range: $8-$20

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 5-10 P.M.; Friday-Saturday, 5-11 P.M.; Sunday, 11 A.M.-3 P.M. and 5-8 P.M.; CLOSED MONDAY

Did you know? Husband-and-wife owners Olga and Raul Reyes come from the same town in Mexico, Alvarado, Veracruz. Their children, Raul and Jaretzy, also work in the restaurant.

 

| Three more great patios |

 

A selection of snacks from Bar Belmont, and its downtown view. Photo by Elliott Muñoz

A selection of snacks from Bar Belmont, and its downtown view. Photo by Elliott Muñoz

1 BarBelmont

The quintessential patio spot in our ’hood. A great view, plus BBQ sliders from the Smoke kitchen.

901 Fort Worth Ave.; 214.393.2300; belmontdallas.com/eats_drinks

 

2 Jonathon’s

Delicious comfort food with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. This is a tiny restaurant with a huge patio, perfect for sunny brunch.

1111 N. Beckley, 214.946.2221, jonathonsoakcliff.com

 

3 Pour House Dallas

This tavern, right across the street from the Kessler Theater, is a great place to have a beer or a “man-mosa” (a mimosa served in a pilsner glass) while watching the haps on West Davis.

1300 W. Davis; 214.942.0288, phdallas.com