A wealthy city less than 20 miles north of Dallas, Plano is mostly known outside of Texas as the home of Southfork, J.R. Ewing’s iconic ranch. The well-heeled citizens eat out more than in, so expect excellent options when you’re choosing from the more than 700 restaurants in the area.

Southfork Ranch became legendary as the setting of the 1980s television drama “Dallas,” and its current revival series. Unfortunately for visitors, Southfork is mostly an events center. You can tour some of the original (furniture-less) rooms, but the museum is small, and not the most up-to-date. Fortunately, the city of Dallas is a quick car ride away, and the ginormous Galleria Mall is even closer.

The old town square in Plano has a few nice places to shop and eat. Otherwise, you will find many of the large, independent eateries stretched along the major arteries such as the Central Expressway. Convenient, if you’re staying in one of Plano’s many hotels, which are also located there.