Eatzi’s is best summed up as a wonderland for the palate. “This is basically one big food factory. Sun up to sun down, we are making food, so whatever you’re in the mood for, chances are we’ll have it,” says Eatzi’s president Jay Valley. The bustling scene can be overwhelming for a first-timer: the hiss of espresso machines, the smell of baking bread, white-capped chefs feverishly chopping, and glass cases stacked full with colorful spreads of gourmet offerings. But wading through all this is well worth it, with dishes like marinated flank steak, poblano crab cakes and grilled pork loin – all ready to be boxed –up for the diner on the go. Or keep it simple with a gourmet wrap, pizza, soup, salad or sandwich. “You can come here and get restaurant quality food to enjoy at home without having to tip. And the best part is you can pretend you cooked it,” Valley says. Simply mix and match entrees with sides to create a custom take-home meal. You can even pick up dessert from the bakery and a bottle of wine from the marketplace to complete the meal.

EATZI’S
3403 OAK LAWN
214.526.1515
$$

HOURS:
DAILY, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Some see the glass half full; others see it half empty. At Kittrell/Riffkind, people tend to just see the glass itself. That’s because this studio specializes in unique glass artworks. This month, check out the latest free exhibition as part of the studio’s Artists Series 2007. The show includes works by five local artists and includes sculptures, goblets, wall pieces, platters, bowls, ornaments, perfume bottles, marbles, vases, paperweights, oil lamps and all sorts of jewelry, While there, visitors can also view the studio’s inventory of glass works by more than 300 contemporary artists, with something for virtually every taste and budget. The exhibition’s opening reception is Saturday, August 18, from 1-5:30 p.m. All the work will be on display until Saturday, Sept. 15. Kittrell/Riffkind is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and is located at 5100 Belt Line. For more information, call 972.239.7957 or visit kittrellriffkind.com.