We love a list, and a (Secret) Local List is even better. Today, DFW Style Daily’s exclusive series continues with shopping, dining, and entertainment picks from an influential new author.

  Self-reliant by necessity and tenacious by nature, Kim Garrett overcame hardship with hard work to become one of Facebook's directors of national sales. The tech leader-turned-author discovered her most challenging chapter, however, after retiring from the social media giant. Facing daunting questions, Garrett responded with characteristic candor and courage, revealing her story and her struggles through her first book, Roll with It. From lessons learned in Silicon Valley boardrooms to Texas beer gardens, Roll with It offers Garrett’s unique perspective on parenting, privilege, and empowerment. On a mission to serve children and adults affected by substance and domestic abuse, the author also established The Electra Zane Project. Through the organization, book sales support local non-profits, including Family Compass. Always eager to champion her community, Garrett, a Lone Star State native, is an avowed fan of “all things Southern.” Today, she’ll share her down-home enthusiasm with her (Secret) Local List of Big D bests.  

  Foodie Favorite: Garrett, a self-professed “creature of habit,” favors classic local restaurants like Al Biernat’s and Mi Cocina, but R+D Kitchen ranks as her top pick. “I go for the Thai tuna rolls,” the author notes. “In a word – amazing.”  

  Go-To Boutique: “I admit it; I actually loathe shopping,” Garrett confesses. “However, I’ve discovered two awesome exceptions in Cabana and Canary on Lovers Lane. These boutiques feature adorable, original collections, and both know my style and treat me like family.”  

  Artistic Addiction: Citing the city’s abundance of excellent artisans, today’s trendsetter explains, “While I adore perusing the Dallas Design District, my favorite décor finds are pieces I’ve had made, or recreated, by local craftsmen. Their work is much more interesting than any over-priced import!”    

  Best Buys: “I cruise Zara, Ross, T.J. Maxx, and Target for style steals,” Garrett reveals. “Most of my go-to outfits consist of distressed denim and an inexpensive top from one of the aforementioned stores, dressed up with expensive shoes – my weakness.”  

 

  I Heart Dallas: Impressed by Dallas’ latest downtown developments, Garrett concludes, “I love to walk the Continental Avenue Bridge, and grab lunch at one of the hot spots at Trinity Groves.”     Roll With It by Kim Garrett debuts October 1. Pre-orders are available now through The Electra Zane Project website. Headshot by Jonathan Zizzo; additional images via individual restaurants and retailers.