Whenever I get an email for a cool event, I generally like to stay out of the way with cute descriptions and ramblings. So, here are the straight facts for this year’s GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up.

Excerpts from press release:
AUSTIN — Hundreds of restaurants and wineries will highlight their best Lone Star tastes July 25-31 during the 2011 GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up, presented by Farm Credit. Right now, Southeast Texas chefs are creating special menu offerings and food and wine pairings using fresh, local ingredients. A portion of Round-Up proceeds will benefit local food banks.

“More chefs are working directly with farmers and ranchers to bring you fresh Texas food,” Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples said. “The GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up is Texas’ only statewide dine-out week and is a great time to savor the best meats, vegetables, fruits and wines, while helping hungry Texans.”

During the week long event, more than 500 restaurants — from cafés to five-star dining establishments — will celebrate Texas food and wine. Many are in Southeast Texas.

“Some of the highest-quality ingredients from produce and seafood to wine can be found right here in Texas,” said Chef Randy Evans of Haven in Houston. “Using these terrific local products while supporting local producers and food banks is a win for everyone.”

Below are several ways GO TEXAN restaurants will showcase locally-grown and raised food during Restaurant Round-Up:

• Fixed-price meals featuring local, seasonal ingredients
• Special dishes paired with Texas wines
• Texas wine tastings with special pricing
• Events celebrating Texas food and wine, and Texas farmers and ranchers

Learn more about GO TEXAN Restaurant Round-Up on Facebook and Twitter, and at www.GOTEXANRestaurantRoundUp.com. This site also offers a chance to win prizes. Restaurants interested in becoming a GO TEXAN member can learn more at www.gotexan.org.

*Note: Images and press release provided by GO TEXAN.