Michael Vilim Hits the “Streat”

I was chatting with the chef and owner of Los Pinos, Margarito Maldanado, the other day and he mentioned that his old boss Michael Vilim (Mirabelle) had opened a new place at 32nd and Red River called The Streat. So we stopped by on Saturday night and did a sampling.

The concept is interesting. The idea is street foods from different cultures and cuisines. Vilim, who got his start working for Elmar Prambs at the then Café at the Four Seasons, is an accomplished pro and serious wine enthusiast. In fact, we walked in right in the middle of a wine dinner (The Streat has taken over the former space of Texas French Bread).

I tried the Gumbo which was pretty good (roux was a bit strong for me), a Greek salad (very tasty), and some glazed Churrasco skewers with chimichurri sauce (a little tough but quite tasty). Marge had the Mezze platter which featured some of the best Hummus I’ve tasted in quite some time, Falafel’s made from Egyptian peas (instead of the usual chickpeas) which were excellent, a very competent tabbouleh, and a smooth baba ghan oush. The complement was some Pita bread from the always reliable Phoenicia Bakery.

Vilim is also doing some intriguing desserts. We tried a chocolate fudge cake that was rich and indulgent. The others looked tempting as well although I’m just not a fan of the flourless chocolate cakes (too dense for me).

So not bad for a place that’s recently opened. I would definitely give it a try. Check it out at eatatstreat.com.