Every city has to have a signature deli, and Carshon's is Fort Worth's gem. The unassuming place serves tasty, well-filled sandwiches that are just what you have in mind. Try corned beef on rye or opt for something more exotic, like herring. If you want chicken soup, that's here too, along with bagels and a smear of cream cheese. Great desserts are always on hand, and beer and wine are available for those who want to take the edge off. Affordable and delicious.

Simple decor, enlivened by brightly painted ladderback chairs, characterizes this casual place, which offers fantastic Mexican food. The authentic restaurant, family-owned and located in the hospital district, also puts forth a hearty weekend breakfast. Some dishes you might encounter include chiles rellenos, Yucatan tamales, and stewed chicken with adobo sauce. In keeping with tradition, no chips and salsa are served – just as if you were in Mexico. The full bar makes available tasty margaritas, daiquiris, and a few other potent poisons.

This family owned and operated coffee shop offers homestyle cooking, along with friendly, courteous service that's earned it many loyal customers. Open since 1926, the restaurant is one of the two oldest in Fort Worth. Owner and pie baker Mike Smith greets everyone by name, and waitresses flash ready smiles. Breakfast is quite an experience, complete with terrific biscuits and standards like eggs, bacon, sausage, and light, syrup-topped pancakes. At lunch, the eatery is known for its chicken fried steak, meatloaf, chili, and daily plate specials. It also serves up some of the best fruit pies this side of the Mississippi.

This funky, contemporary-styled diner is located southwest of downtown, near Hulen Mall. The bright, casual place sells yummy bagels of all kinds, and the peanut butter ones are especially good. In the mornings, the full-service grill is fired up for great omelets, pancakes, and migas. Accompany them with a cup of strong, flavorful coffee, and you'll start your day off right. Later on, sandwiches and grilled lunch items are available, along with a selection of deli foods. Affordable and busy.

Esperanza grew as an adjunct to Joe T. Garcia's restaurant and serves a flavorful array of Mexican breakfasts,lunches and dinners. A full bakery counter offers delicious goods for those who want something quick and filling. At breakfast, that can mean eggs with either bacon or pork chops, huevos rancheros, or eggs scrambled with tortilla strips and chicken (known as migas). Lunch features tamales, gorditas, flautas, grilled beef liver, or slow-cooked baby goat.

This popular bistro attracts patrons with its casual ambience and wonderful food. Great pizzas from the wood-fired grill are perennial favorites, and fried green tomatoes and herb-roasted chicken also have a faithful following. Other options include filet mignon, fresh fish, and a selection of sandwiches and salads. In late summer, Lucile's features an annual "Lobsterama" event that offers savory lobster bisque and live Maine lobster. Saturday breakfast and Sunday brunch allow you to enjoy a relaxing morning meal.

Authenticity reigns at this small eatery, located west of town near the UPRR railroad yard. Mexican fare served at the family-owned and -operated place includes fresh tacos, gorditas, burritos, and tortas (along with great breakfast tacos). In fact, the menu is quite impressive for such a small place. Portions are generous, and service is quick. The staff speaks little English, though, so bone up on your Spanish before you stop by. Except for an outdoor table, there's no seating either – only take-out business. Simply place your order at the window and wait to pick it up. You'll never miss the ambience with such great, quick food.

This French cafe, with its appealing rustic decor, is always a sure bet when you want delectable food. Known for its perfect pastries, breads, cheesecakes, and tarts, the restaurant also serves daily fare to those who crave a taste of the Continent! Bountiful breakfasts boast the freshest ingredients in omelets, French toast, fresh fruit and fragrant French roast coffee. At other times, you'll find quiches, pastas, seafood, pizza, rotisserie chicken, and a variety of salads, sandwiches and soups. Dessert temptations include créme brûlée, tiramisu, fruit napoleons, cookies and tortes.

This spacious, welcoming cafe attracts patrons with fantastic coffees, handpainted tables and murals, and just a touch of whimsy. The scent of fresh-roasted coffee serves as an enticement throughout the day. Beans from around the world are used for light and dark roasts, blends, decafs, and flavored coffees. Aromatic teas are also available, along with fruit smoothies. If you find yourself hungry, a great menu of sandwiches, pizzas, and vegetarian fare is not only tasty but good for you. Incredible desserts and pastries too.

Since opening in 1962, this family restaurant has been dishing out delicious breakfast plates with great frequency. Although other options are available, you would be remiss not to try the "dutch babies," small, tangy, sweet pancakes topped with powdered sugar, lemon, and butter. They're the restaurant's signature. Comfortable decor and efficient service also recommend the place, as you can tell by weekend breakfast lines. Other traditional lunch and dinner menu items can also be found. A second location is at 5148 East Belknap (817-834-1291).