The Abacus restaurant, located at McKinney and Armstrong, participated in this year’s Dallas Restaurant week. (Spencer J Eggers/The Daily Campus)

It was the normal routine. The grills were fired up, the sous chefs busy chopping fresh vegetables, the head chefs tasting sauces, but there was something exciting going on in the kitchens across Dallas last week.

It wasn’t just any other week for Dallas eateries. It was Dallas Restaurant Week. Although it’s over for this year, now you know what you’ve been missing out on, and what to look forward to for next year.

A weeklong affair put on by KRLD NewsRadio, sponsored by Central Market, with over 125 different restaurants across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, diners pay $35 for a three-course prix fixe dinner experience.

Although the price may seem steep for just one dinner, most of the restaurants are highly respected, upscale eateries like Abacus, Al Biernats and Nobu. Not only do you get options for each course, but a $7 donation also goes to the North Texas Food Bank in Dallas or Lena Pope Home in Fort Worth, benefitting families in need.

Although restaurant week has come to a close for now, there are some restaurants you should know about.

If you’ve never had the chance to try some of these places, for SMU students, it would be most probable to wait for a visit from the parents. Once you’ve found your favorite spots, you can save some money by heading over during Restaurant Week 2012.

If you’re looking for the royal treatment, amazing steaks and sushi, Abacus is your spot. Abacus has been an all-time favorite in my family for many years, and their lobster shooters are to die for. If you’re a sushi lover, Nobu gets the job done. Located in the ritzy Crescent Center, you’ll get tiny bites of flavor ecstasy. Note: tiny bites, large price tag. And that is where restaurant week comes in. Instead of spending the usual $100 for two people for a special night out, it’s only $35 per person.

If you’re looking for some seafood and awesome side dishes, Eddie V’s is also a great place. The side dishes are family style, and their desserts are great.

Other great places you should not miss out on are Shinsei, The Place at Perry’s and Tei An. All of these places are always good picks, great service, better food and fun cocktails too.

Foodies and non-foodies alike can expect many great restaurants participating in next year’s restaurant week. Until then, the list of this year’s participants can be viewed online.