J. Pier And now to the dining capital of the world.  How about Texas?  Dallas-Fort Worth?  Would you believe Kaufman County?  Now, we’re on the right track.  Let’s get out for some fine dining in Terrell.  That’s right.  You heard me say “fine dining in Terrell.”  I found it hard to believe myself, but after trying J. Pier in beautiful, downtown Terrell, I am convinced.  The restaurant is the love-child of Johnny Green and his wife Donna.   Johnny is a contractor and a dreamer and his wife collects antiques.  He spotted this 150 year old ice house in Terrell and fell in love with it.  They spent two years re-doing it.  The results are amazing, whimsical, educational, cozy, fun and funky.  J. Pier’s is a huge, hulk of a building, but the Green’s have created alcoves, walkways, and special seating areas in the restaurant so the size of the place is not intimidating.   Maybe you’d like to take cocktails on the balcony with a great view of The Queen Mary—a near life size mural on the wall—or how about the “dungeon”?  It’s really the basement of J. Pier that Green’s have made to resemble a mysterious, hidden room in a castle.   It’s a pretty convincing job with the lighting and antiques.  J. Pier is definitely a place you have to see to believe.  And it’s not as far away as you might think.  Downtown Terrell is within easy striking distance of Plano, Rockwall, Garland and even Dallas.   We were 35 minutes door to door from East Dallas.  With all the restaurants in Dallas and Fort Worth why would you want to drive to Terrell you ask?  How about good food for starters?  Executive Chef Tony Gardizi, who hails from Bali Bar and The Riviera discovered the restaurant when he answered a want ad in the paper.  He fell in love with the place.  The results?  Unique starters and satisfying main courses that please the palate.  Grilled marlin with acorn squash and artichoke soup are two apps we tried and thoroughly enjoyed.  The menu changes frequently based on what’s freshest.  Chef Gardizi is executing a global cuisine concept which includes fresh seafood, served with tempting citrus sauces and vegetable reductions.   Highlights include Lemon Grilled Atlantic Salmon with carrot reduction, Pan seared Sea Bass with artichokes and asparagus jus, and Oven Roasted Lobster Tail with citrus sauce.  Other items that shine are the steaks—some of the juiciest around.  We had an absolutely wonderful Black Angus Ribeye in a Burgundy Thyme Sauce and a fabulous Steak au Poive.  The peppercorn encrusted filet is served with oven roasted sweet potatoes and brandy peppercorn sauce.   The wine list is limited but growing.  You’ll find selections by the glass that compliment the menu and a decent selection of varietals by the bottle.  Service is very attentive and friendly but more, shall we say, seasoning is required before the level of service matches the quality of the food.  J. Pier is open for lunch Monday through Friday and dinner Monday through Saturday.  You’ll find them on US Highway 80 in Terrell, just a block and a half east of State Highway 34.  The number for reservations is 972-524-3098.  And, I recommend reservations on the weekend.  J. Pier has become a hit with the locals and folks from the surrounding area who know a good deal when they see one.  On the KRLD Restaurant Show Review Scale of One to Five Forks, J. Pier rates 3 Forks. Food is 3 and a half Forks. Service is 3 Forks. Atmosphere is 3 Forks. Price is moderately expensive, with entrées ranging from $10.95 to $24.95. Send me an Email: jwdineline@aol.com