Nine spots worth a visit on a Denton day trip

by Kim Dalrymple of The Indie-verse

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Seven Mile Cafe, Mad World Records, and Hailey's are musts.

Even if you’re painfully loyal to Dallas County and all it has to offer, take a day this weekend and make the drive up to Denton — an often-overlooked Texas town overflowing with farm town Southern charm combined with current trends and a scene all its own. Even when there isn’t an awesome festival going on (ahem, 35 Denton), it still has plenty to offer.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with everything the city has to offer, start with this guide for a fun-filled day in Denton.

Seven Mile Cafe - Start off your morning with this local favorite. Seven Mile Cafe is more than accommodating with their vegetarian and vegan options, and the menu has many unique choices. You’re sure to have a memorable breakfast in the renovated old house that is Seven Mile Cafe.

Recycled Books - A Denton staple, this big purple building provides room for you to peruse to your heart’s content — books, records, and CDs galore. Not only is Recycled well-versed in media, but they also stock plenty of subjects. The nooks and crannies of this gold mine reveal whatever you’ve been looking for. And if you’re lucky, there will be an in-store performance as well!

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop - If you haven’t been to one of Fuzzy’s several locations, you can start your taco love affair here. Fuzzy’s tacos have a way of hitting the spot when you’re really hungry. But if you’re somehow not in the mood for tacos (that never happens to me), they offer a full menu of delicious Mexican food for an affordable price.

Mad World Records - If Recycled Books wasn’t akin to your music-browsing vibe, hop over to the other side of the square and visit Mad World. With more of a focus on new and obscure releases and less on used and, well, recycled, Mad World contributes to the ever-evolving independent music store scene in Denton.

Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream & Soda Fountain - While you’re over there, you might as well stop by another classic Denton institution right next door to Mad World. Beth Marie’s offers a perfectly vintage ice cream experience, including a wide array of interesting flavors made in-house every day. Have as many samples as it takes to decide on a flavor, the friendly staff will help you out! Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip back in time.

Downtown Mini Malls - I don’t know exactly how much the name reflects these places, but basically what they are is massive spaces housing an insanely wide selection of antique … everything. Knickknacks, clothes, toys, knives, furniture … you’ll just have to go see for yourself. If you can appreciate a good find here and there, you will love the mini malls!

GreenHouse Restaurant - This restaurant is my favorite place to eat in Denton. There’s plenty to choose from — the menu offers sliders, vegetarian dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more. I love the steak salad tossed in a unique cumin vinaigrette.

Hailey’s - Depending on when you visit Denton, there just may be something for you at Hailey’s. This awesome venue books all kinds of acts, especially during the annual 35 Denton. Check out the calendar of upcoming shows to see if there’s something that strikes your fancy.

Big Mike’s Coffee Shop - No matter what time your show gets out, you can stop at Big Mike’s for a quick pick-me-up or a small bite to eat. Big Mike’s is good any time of day, but the 24-hour service just can’t be beat.

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