Wu's Asian Bistro, Coppell

Wen Dah Tai—Uncle Tai to regulars—has worked in kitchens in China, Japan, the Philippines, and New York. He first showed off his skills to Americans in 1967, and he's been running restaurants in Dallas in one form or another since 1979. His latest eatery, Wu's Asian Bistro, bears the imprint of all these past influences.

The restaurant specializes in Chinese favorites such as Szechuan shrimp, Hunan pork, and Mongolian beef. Japanese and Thai offerings are also available, from pad thai to hibachi dishes. The dessert selection is equally eclectic; you can try tiramisu from Italy, key lime pie from the Caribbean, or fudge chocolate cake from Candy Land.