Tupinamba is an excellent Mexican restaurant at 75/Walnut Hill. When I moved to Dallas I lived in the apartments directly behind the restaurant. I’d walk down there a few times a week to eat… it’s so good. My girlfriend and I have a tradition where we eat here a few days before Christmas and then drive around looking at Christmas lights afterwards. We love about 25 miles away now but won’t let the tradition die. 

Someone else mentioned Rex’s Seafood for which I’ll add two enthusiastic thumbs up. My girlfriend and I lived in the apartments across Turtle Creek (Renaissance at Preston Hollow) and waited with high hopes while this was being built out. I think we were there opening night and went many times afterwards. Haven’t been back since we moved to Carrollton a few years ago, but this is a can’t miss. My mouth is watering thinking about their lobster roll. 

Anaya’s Seafood is also excellent. I’ve been to both the Plano & Frisco locations. It’s really good seafood at half the cost of Pappadeaux and I’d say a better meal overall with a less pretentious ambiance. 

Steve Fields Steakhouse in Plano is incredible. We go there when we’re feeling fancy. It’s a little more expensive and is a little more dressed up than the other places I mentioned, but it’s damn good. Can’t go wrong with their pork chop or prime rib. Go for your birthday and they’ll bring you a massive piece of incredibly tasty chocolate cake for free. 

Not sure any of those are hidden gems, but they’re really good meals at (mostly) affordable prices.