A Latin-inspired weekend in Dallas

In the Latin culture, café is essential. Start your day off right at La Duni, a quaint Uptown restaurant that takes you straight to the Iberian Peninsula. First, order the Pastel Gloria, a Danish style pastry, baked fresh daily in their in-house bakery. Enjoy a full breakfast menu that will have your taste buds ready to explode - freshly made black beans with a splash of cilantro mojo sauce, soft scrambled eggs with tomato hogao salsa and the earthy essence of grilled handmade white corn arepas. Que rico!

Now that you're fueled up and ready to go, the Dallas Latino Cultural Center (LCC) is your next stop. The LCC, just steps away from Deep Ellum and the Dallas Arts District, combines several branches of the arts to tell a story of Hispanic heritage. The organization's purpose is to preserve, develop and promote Latino and Hispanic art and culture. You can visit the center anytime for free, but check the calendar for ticketed events.

A little taste of Cuba right in the Big D? Caribbean Cuba takes you straight to the island. From the delicious traditional Cuban dishes like the croquetas, to the freshly muddled mojitos, this small spot is a hidden gem just north of Dallas. There is no hurry once you step inside - relax and enjoy your stay in Cuba – er, we mean Dallas – without ever having to jump on a plane.

You've had your taste of Latin foods, now it's time to experience the heart of the Latin culture in Dallas with some dancing! While Gloria's is normally a place to try divine Latin dishes during the day, at night it transforms into a party. The sounds of Havana energy! transcends you to a place where there are no worries and the only thing you need to do is move your hips. Find salsa, cumbia, bachata and reggaeton music all under one roof well into the night.

On any given day you can enter Zaguan and be transported to Venezuela, Colombia or Argentina in one hot minute. Known as the symbol of Latin hospitality in Dallas by locals, this cute, cultured spot offers a unique selection of healthy and authentic Latin American dishes. You'll want to stop here for the pastries alone. Seriously, what could better than their guava and sweet bread with coffee?

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the best places to submerge yourself in Latino history. Located right in the middle of the Dallas Arts District, the DMA is a free museum full of an impressive collection of art from across the world. The Ancient American collection represents Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Colombia, Peru and other countries. Take your time, walk around and learn all the different fabrics that make up the Latino world.

Nico Sanchez, executive chef at Meso Maya, is bringing Mexican traditions straight to your table.  Nico is all about working with fresh flavors. Peppers, tomatoes, sweet chilis and savory seafood are just some of delectable items you'll find on the Meso Maya menu. One of the house favorites is the avocado margarita. Hey, it's five o'clock, somewhere right?

You've made it through the day, now you're ready for a night out! Candleroom Dallas is your destination for the ultimate Latin dance party. With their hand-crafted cocktails and sizzling sounds, International Fridays are where you want to be. Located in the sophisticated Knox/Henderson neighborhood, Candleroom promises to provide one tremenda pachanga!